A Human-Machine Interface (HMI) is a user interface or dashboard that allows a person to interact with a machine, device, or system. Other names for HMI displays include:
- MMI – Man-Machine Interface
- OIT – Operator Interface Terminal
- LOI - Local Operator Interface
HMIs are used to optimise an industrial process by digitising and centralising data for a user. By leveraging HMI displays, operators can see important information displayed in graphs, charts, or digital dashboards, view and manage alarms, and connect other systems.
HMI Touch Screen Uses:
- Visually display data
- Track production time, trends, and tags
- Oversee KPIs
- Monitor machine inputs and outputs
- Control aspects of the system, device, or machine
For the layman, the majority of people associate HMI touch screens with air-conditioning. In industrial settings, for example, a plant-floor operator might use an HMI screen to check and control the temperature of an industrial water tank, or to see if a certain pump in the facility is running correctly.
HMIs come in a variety of forms:
- built-in screens on machines,
- computer monitors,
- tablets, and other touchscreen devices
Industries who use HMI screens:
HMI technology is used by almost all industrial organisations who require monitoring and controlling of devices and machines.
Common Uses of HMI
HMIs communicate with Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and input/output sensors to get and display information for users to view. HMI screens can be used for a single function, like monitoring and tracking, or for performing more sophisticated operations, like switching off machines or increasing/decreasing production speed, depending on how they are implemented.
Electronic Displays
In this instance, HMIs are used for electronic displays. An HMI, in its most basic form, is nothing more than an interface through which a human operator controls a machine. An HMI could essentially be a touchscreen interface that is used to display e-ink text.
EP Normand is a specialist variable speed drive company, and offer a variety of other solutions. Metals, cable, paper and plastic industries are some of our typical customers. Our suppliers in the countries of origin train our staff, and all have recognized engineering qualifications. We are able to supply a turnkey solution in this business, and supply a 24-hour back-up service.
A standard off-the-shelve range of products with associated expertise is offered, to solve the most demanding applications in the processing industry. The products are user friendly and easily programmable for the most arduous applications. The local knowledge base for the products is excellent, due to a history of over thirty years in the Southern African market.