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Everything You Need to Know About Human Machine Interfaces

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Erric Ravi
Everything You Need to Know About Human Machine Interfaces

Human Machine Interface (HMI) or Man-Machine Interface (MMI) refers to any device or software that simplifies interaction between humans and machines. Mobile devices, touch display panels, computers with keypads, and push buttons & switches are examples of a Human Machine Interface since they enable operators to input information and initiate actions. There are two types of interaction in an HMI: one is human-to-machine, and the other is machine-to-human. Almost all of us use HMIs in our daily lives (for example, when we change the temperature of the car or push buttons in the microwave) without even consciously being aware of it. HMIs are also used in highly complex industrial automation systems.

From an industrial standpoint, Human Machine Interface software is valuable because it allows for improved system and user efficiency, lower occurrence of errors, higher reliability and maintainability, increased ability to monitor production, and swifter responses to any changes in demand. However, the best feature of an HMI is the superior user-friendliness afforded by this technology. They can be utilised in any industry where human intervention is required to manage machines. HMIs are used in various industries, such as food processing, oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, automotive, and mining operations. Traditional HMI software used to be – among other things – standalone terminals for a single machine. Now, new HMI solutions transmit data to the cloud or an on-premise solution, which makes it possible to combine data from various machines for improved centralised monitoring. The Industrial Internet of Things – also known as IIoT – is transforming industries because of the unprecedented levels of productivity, efficiency, and performance that is facilitated through the adoption of this service.

The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) connects multiple machines present in a single organisational framework to enhance manufacturing processes in different industries through the efficient application of M2M technology, afforded by the application of IIoT solutions. The Industrial Internet of Things and its applications are more oriented towards critical industries such as healthcare and power generation, among others. This IIoT technology helps companies optimise their manufacturing processes and, as a result, saves them millions of dollars.

The Industrial Internet of Things technology is driving powerful business outcomes and is estimated, by many, to become a trillion dollar market in the near future. HMI has become such an integral aspect of our day-to-day lives, which makes it even more amazing that we are completely unaware of the importance of this all-encompassing technology.

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