What Trends Are Driving the Need for Change in the World of HMI?
Human-Machine Interface (HMI) technology is constantly evolving to meet the changing needs and expectations of users and industries. Several trends are driving the need for change in the world of HMI:
Industry 4.0 and IoT Integration
The integration of HMI with Industry 4.0 and the Internet of Things (IoT) is a significant driver. As more devices and machines become interconnected, HMI systems need to provide real-time data visualization, remote monitoring, and control capabilities. FactoryTalk® Optix™ has built-in drivers for non-Rockwell Automation devices and OPC UA offers local connectivity while MQTT enables connectivity to cloud services.
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Responsive and Adaptive Design
HMI systems are becoming more responsive and adaptive to different screen sizes and form factors. This ensures a consistent user experience across various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and large industrial displays. Optix utilizes vector-based graphics to create responsive displays.
Data Analytics and Visualization
The need for better data analytics and visualization tools within HMIs is growing. Users require more advanced ways to analyze and interpret data in real-time time, enabling faster decision-making.
Cybersecurity
With increased connectivity, the security of HMI systems is paramount. Cybersecurity threats are driving the development of secure HMI solutions that protect against data breaches and unauthorized access. Optix allows you to utilize FactoryTalk Remote Access to securely remote into your HMI application. The ability to remotely access and control machines and processes is becoming essential, especially in sectors like manufacturing and healthcare.
Human-Centered Design
There is a greater emphasis on designing HMIs with a focus on the user experience. User-centered design principles are being applied to create interfaces that are more intuitive, efficient, and user-friendly. These systems can be easily customized to a company’s specific needs and scaled up as requirements grow. Modular and flexible HMI solutions are gaining popularity.
The evolving technology landscape, industry demands, and user expectations are pushing the need for continuous innovation and improvement in the Human-Machine Interface (HMI). These trends are shaping the future of HMI systems to be more interconnected, intuitive, secure, and adaptable to a wide range of applications. Rockwell Automation’s FactoryTalk Optix visualization solutions are ready to help you improve your processes and efficiencies.
With the FactoryTalk Optix platform, you can use your web browser to design and test your HMI projects in the cloud. New SaS-enabled workflows allow you to collaborate anytime from anywhere with built-in change tracking and versioning that automatically keeps track of who did what and when. You can also develop your HMI without being tied to specific display hardware, giving your team the flexibility to deploy a station tablet or mobile display. Using a simple selection, you can even deploy it in a distributed configuration.
OPC UA is core to the platform, giving you openness and interoperability that supports machine-to-machine communication or machine-to-cloud communication. With FactoryTalk Optix remote access capabilities you can share a view of your machine with your customers and team members before your product ships, increasing satisfaction and accelerating project timelines.
FactoryTalk Optix visualization platform helps you improve your deliverables, processes, and efficiencies in one easy-to-access and deploy tool. If you want to improve collaboration, scalability, and interoperability to evolve with HMI technology, Rockwell Automation’s FactoryTalk Optix visualization solution is right for you.