HMI

An HMI (Human Machine Interface) is exactly what the name implies: a

graphical interface that allows human users to interact with a system's
machinery. As technology develops, HMIs are becoming more abundant in
everyday tasks for consumers. Gas station pumps, self-service kiosks,
ATM machines, and self checkout lines all use HMIs to process user
inputs, convert them to machine readable code, and perform tasks without
the need for an attendant, teller, or other employee. In the context of
manufacturing and process control systems, an HMI provides a visual
representation of the control system, and provides real time data
acquisition. An HMI can increase productivity by providing a centralized
display of the control process that is extremely user-friendly.
In manufacturing lines, HMIs have can monitor and control processes
outside of a Central Processing Unit (CPU), and may be equipped with data
recipes, event logging, video feed, and event triggering, so that users can
update system processes without changing any of the hardware. For a
manufacturing line to be integrated with an HMI, it must first be working
with a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) which acts as the CPU. The PLC
takes the information from inputs (physical sensors or commands from the
HMI) and transforms it to processes for manufacturing. While these inputs
and processes are being performed, the HMI provides a display of received
inputs, control process outputs, and defined user variables being leveraged
to perform the tasks.
HMIs are typically used in conjunction with a PLC (Programmable Logic
Controller) to monitor and control processes in an automated system. In
general terms, the HMI allows the user to communicate with the PLC via a
graphical interface (typically a touchscreen). This interface allows
commands to be given, and also receives and translates feedback data
from the PLC, which is then presented in an easily accessible visualization
on the screen. This provides the operator with much-needed flexibility and
control over a given system. An excellent example of a common HMI would
be a tablet or smartphone, which have built-in touchscreens that allow
users to interact directly with the machine's programming.

There are three basic types of HMIs: the pushbutton replacer, the data
handler, and the overseer.

• The Pushbutton Replacer

Before the HMI came into existence, a control might consist of

hundreds of pushbuttons and LEDs performing different operations.
The pushbutton replacer HMI has streamlined manufacturing
processes, centralizing all the functions of each button into one
location. The pushbutton replacer takes the place of LEDs, On/Off
buttons, switches, or any mechanical device that performs a control
function. The elimination of these mechanical devices is possible
because the HMI provides a visual representation of all these devices
on its LCD screen, while performing all the same functions.

• The Data Handler

The data handler is perfect for applications requiring constant

feedback from the system, or printouts of the production reports. With
the data handler, you must ensure the HMI screen is big enough to
display information such as graphs, visual representations of data,
and production summaries. The data handler includes such functions
as recipes, data trending, data logging and alarm handling/logging.
The data handler is used for applications that require constant
feedback and monitoring. Often these data handlers come equipped
with large capacity memories.

• The Overseer

Anytime an application involves SCADA or MES, an overseer HMI is

extremely beneficial. The overseer HMI will most likely require
Windows to operate, and have several Ethernet ports. The overseer
works with SCADA and MES. These are centralized systems that
 monitor and control entire sites or complexes of large systems
spread out over large areas. An HMI is usually linked to the SCADA
system's databases and software programs, to provide trending,
diagnostic data, and management information.

Advantages of Human Machine Interface

The advantages of Human Machine Interface are:

1- Improved Productivity
2- Satisfaction/ Pursuit of Happiness
3- Enhance Data Saving/Recording- They have high abilities in recording data. By
entering commands into an HMI, the system to which it is connected to can
automatically record the data. Such data can be used later for other purposes, for
example, troubleshooting future mechanical problems.
4- Internet of Things- Internet of things refers to a collection of devices which are all
connected to the internet. HMIs can also be connected to the internet since they are
devices too. This enables applications such as remote control access and network
monitoring.
5- Data Translation
6- Reduce the Cost of Hardware
Disadvantages of Human Machine Interface
HMIs nearly have no disadvantages. Their effectiveness outway any flaws which are
minimal. They are very useful and highly appreciated nowadays. Any issue regarding an
interface may incur as a result of the following.
1- Security
2- Poor Interface Design