HMIs are an integral part of any modern production process. Time is money and, partly due to the cut-throat competition in the market, even more so now than ever. In this article, we discuss the biggest advantages of HMIs in manufacturing processes and trends to keep an eye on.
What is an HMI?
HMI stands for Human Machine Interface, a system of dashboards or user interface that allows man and machine to “communicate. It can range from simple buttons, joysticks and screens to sophisticated touchscreens and software applications. HMI can be used in various industries to improve interaction between operators and machines. But also to make processes more efficient and user-friendly.
With a properly tuned HMI, an operator can make a machine perform various tasks, set parameters and monitor the machine and its performance. For example, it can be used to control the temperature of a machine. Thanks to the right PLCs, you can track it all on an interactive and user-friendly screen.
In short, everything your machine is capable of, you will see translated on a comprehensive dashboard. Think of all conditions, all settings, all manual and automatic cycles, every parameter, and so on.
7 advantages of an HMI in your production process
Implementing HMI into your manufacturing processes offers significant benefits, from improved control and real-time monitoring to increased safety and efficiency. By taking advantage of HMI’s extensive capabilities, you can optimize your manufacturing processes and better respond to changing market conditions.
- Better control of your machinery – HMI systems provide comprehensive control functions, allowing you to accurately manage the machines in your plant. In no time, you adjust parameters, start or stop processes and can perform optimizations effortlessly. It leads to streamlined production and less downtime.
- Real-time monitoring – Thanks to HMI, you can monitor your production processes in real time. This allows you to know at any time the status of your machines and consequently your production process.
- Easy troubleshooting – On your dashboard, you can read the summary of your production process. Is something going wrong somewhere? Then the PLCs will report this to the system and you will receive a notification.
- Increased safety – By providing your operators with critical information and necessary alerts, HMI ensures a safer production site. In the event of any problems or dangerous situations, they can act quickly.
- Greater efficiency – Automation is a must in any modern factory. Human Machine Interface allows operators to work faster and more accurately. The result? Fewer errors, lower costs and higher output.
- Better evaluation of your machines – Do you want comprehensive data analysis capabilities? Then HMI is ideal to help you evaluate your devices and production process.
- More flexibility – Your needs may change over time. HMI allows you to change quickly.
What are the HMI trends of the moment?
Both the industrial revolution and the digital express train are racing at full speed. This is reflected in a few trends that are currently emerging with increasing frequency and can add value to production processes.
- Touchscreen is increasingly becoming the norm – An interactive interface as intuitive as your smartphone? That’s no problem, more and more touchscreens are being integrated to make your HMI even more accessible and user-friendly for your operators.
- Greater “tablet” feel – HMI technologies are also more accessible on mobile devices, allowing you to monitor your machinery even from a distance. It’s as easy as working with a tablet.
- AI, VR and AR – Artificial Intelligence, Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality are a hot topic, even within manufacturing processes. It can be an absolute added value in function of predictive models, allowing you to intervene even before a problem actually occurs. With Meyland 4.0 we already did a lot of research and the results are amazing. The biggest drawback is the cost. Because implementing AI, VR and AR is no trifle. To date, we find that costs and benefits do not always balance each other out. So it is a matter of getting good advice.
- Better visualization – The user interface is becoming increasingly user-friendly. This trend is strongly related to the increasingly strong tablet experience. At a glance, you get the most important information.
HMI as the beating heart of your production process
Down to Kenya, our machines are equipped with HMI technology. Operators can closely manage and control the operation of the three mobile weighing bunkers for grain, coal and clinker.
Need more efficiency in your production process?
Our Meyland engineers know what to do! Based on your needs and requirements, we determine how we can best serve you. So feel free to ask for no-obligation advice!