The HMI touch panel

HMI stands for Human-Machine-Interfaces and has established itself as a comprehensive term for the entire interface between humans and machines (hardware and software). The HMI therefore includes not only the input system, but also the display of information, feedback mechanisms, the presentation of data in an understandable form (graphics, symbols, texts) and the entirety of the user interface. The input system, on the other hand, refers to the hardware and software components that enable a user to enter commands or data into a system. This can happen with a wide range of devices, such as keyboards, mice, touchscreens, pen input devices, voice recognition and more.

A touchscreen is part of the input system, while the entire graphical user interface (GUI) on the touchscreen is considered part of the HMI, as it provides both input and output for user interaction.

How the HMI touch panel came about

Although simple mechanical controls already existed in factories and production facilities in the 19th century, electronic interfaces and operating elements only became possible with the development of electronics, computer and finally graphics technologies from the middle of the 20th century. The transition to touchscreen-based HMIs began in the 1990s and became increasingly common in the following decades. The use of HMI touch panels, or HMI touch screen panels, facilitated operation and contributed to the use of HMIs in various industries, from the automotive industry to medical technology.

Today, there are resistive touchscreens or screens equipped with a capacitive sensor. Displays with agnostic sensors are the latest version of a touch screen.

Advantages and disadvantages of HMI touch panels in mechanical and apparatus engineering

Advantages:

HMI touch panels offer a number of advantages in machine and apparatus engineering, which significantly improve both the operability and efficiency of machines. One of the main advantages is intuitive user guidance: graphical user interfaces allow complex processes to be clearly displayed and easily operated. This significantly reduces the amount of training required for operating personnel and minimizes the susceptibility to errors in daily operation.

Another significant advantage is the flexibility in displaying and adapting information. HMI touch panels make it possible to display different data, status displays, warning messages or operating options in real time as required. This allows operators to react more quickly to changes, which increases process reliability and efficiency. In addition, inputs can be made directly via the panel, eliminating the need for additional buttons or switches on the machine housing - this saves space, reduces cabling and ensures a tidy design.

HMI touch panels also contribute to digitalization and networking in mechanical engineering. Many systems support integration into higher-level control or management systems, which enables central monitoring and control of multiple systems. Maintenance and fault diagnostics also benefit: The touch panels can be used to call up diagnostic data, import updates or enable remote maintenance - this reduces downtimes and increases machine availability.

Last but not least, modern HMI systems also offer greater freedom in terms of ergonomics and design. They can be adapted to the requirements of specific applications, for example with multilingual user guidance or special layouts for different operating levels. Overall, HMI touch panels make an important contribution to increasing efficiency, process reliability and user-friendliness in machine and apparatus engineering.

Disadvantages:

Despite their many advantages, HMI touch panels also have some disadvantages in machine and apparatus engineering, which must be taken into account depending on the application. One of the main disadvantages is their susceptibility to harsh environmental conditions. In dusty, damp or heavily soiled production areas, the functionality of the touch surface can be impaired, especially if no specially protected industrial panels are used. Extreme temperatures or strong vibrations can also have a negative impact on the service life and reliability of the panels.

Another disadvantage lies in operation with gloves or dirty hands, which is common in many industrial applications. Although there are now panels that are optimized for operation with gloves, not all systems offer this option. This can limit user-friendliness or lead to incorrect entries. In addition, touch control panels do not provide tactile feedback like physical buttons, which can be a disadvantage, especially in stressful situations or when visibility is poor.

Costs also play a role: high-quality, robust HMI systems for industrial applications are more expensive to purchase than conventional buttons or simple displays. In addition, the development and maintenance of the user interface requires additional effort. For more complex systems, specialist knowledge is required to configure the software correctly and adapt it to specific machines. Changes to the operating logic or visualization usually also require intervention by trained personnel.

Another point is the dependence on power and electronics. If the HMI system fails due to a technical defect or power failure, it is often no longer possible to operate the machine unless redundant operating elements are available. This can lead to downtime and affect the availability of the system.

Overall, although HMI touch panels are powerful and modern, they have limitations in certain areas of application and under challenging conditions, which should be taken into account during planning and selection.

HMI touch screen panels have become indispensable as input systems. The advantages often outweigh the disadvantages, but must be carefully considered on a case-by-case basis. With agnostic touch technology, disadvantages such as sensitivity or choice of material can be eliminated.

There is a wide range of applications for the HMI touch screen panel:

1. Industrial automation: Industrial HMI touch panels are used in factories and production facilities to monitor processes, control machines and set production parameters.
2. Medical technology: In medical devices, HMIs are used for medical imaging in ventilators and other diagnostic instruments. Doctors and medical staff can control the devices and call up information via the user interface. Depending on the application in medical technology, very high hygiene standards must be met or safe operability with gloves or tools must be ensured in the case of dirty operating surfaces.
3. Automotive industry: In vehicles, HMIs are used for everything from infotainment and navigation systems to control systems for vehicle functions.
4. Household appliances: Many modern household appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers and refrigerators have HMIs that enable users to operate the appliances and make settings easily.
5. and transport technology: In public transport, particularly robust, durable (vandal-proof) HMIs are required, but they also need to be quick and easy to clean. Clear and self-explanatory operation is just as important.
6. Food and beverage industry: HMIs are used in food production to monitor production lines, check quality and control processes. Hygiene, durability and easy cleaning are important aspects in this industry.

Conclusion

HMI touch screen panels are very popular and have established themselves very well in recent years. Their user-friendliness always depends on their graphical and intuitive operability. Anyone looking for the right input system for their product must carefully weigh up the advantages against the disadvantages, because depending on the requirements, input systems without a screen may be the better choice.