How do HMIs play a role in Smart Factories?

For those working in and developing smart factories, HMIs (Human Machine Interface) are at the core of a good user experience.

Developing HMIs with exemplary user experiences requires a perfect fit between the technology and the environment within which it operates. In designing the user experience of vending machines, self-service kiosks, and industrial machinery, different approaches are needed.

WHY DO WE NEED HMIS IN SMART FACTORIES?

HMIs enable direct data flow collection and communication between machines and facilities, as well as real-time monitoring and control of operating processes, to create fast and collaborative manufacturing processes. This is an example of an IIoT installation improving operations by using data more effectively.

SECURITY FEATURES

HMIs also provide an extra layer of security. The HMI can store data and present it for local use, by way of the company intranet, such as trending and real-time analysis. While all the data may be present at the HMI, user levels configured in the HMI can limit access to it. If the data needs to be accessed remotely, the HMI can act as a buffer, preserving bandwidth by only sending the information when the bandwidth is available. Modern HMI technology also comes with built in security features, such as push technology, that only allows data to be sent out from the HMIs, not received, or requested.

SMART MANUFACTURING AND FOOD PRODUCTION

When approaching the smart manufacturing and food production sector HMIs must be able to withstand harsh environments, and in a food processing facility particularly, high-pressure, and high temperature washing, as we as being cleaned with acidic cleaners.  Daily scrubbing and water washing are essential in these facilities to ensure food safety standards are met.

To make sure your smart factory is a success, you need technology partners who can provide solutions that are designed and tested for challenging environments and are therefore ideal for applications with extreme temperature and mechanical stress conditions. The ideal computer platforms feature efficient thermal concepts, are maintenance-free and have customisable designs, high performance computing and graphics power, enabling 24/7 operation and long-term deployment. Flexible core technology will also allow upgradeability and scalability while reducing TCO (total cost of ownership) and time-to-market

As experts in this field and can provide a whole host of products to tailor your HMIs and IIoT network to your specific requirements.

To learn more about our smart manufacturing solutions, click here.