Introduction to Human-Machine Interface (HMI) 145

Alphanumeric keys

A small button that inputs a specific letter or number. Alphanumeric keys are common on control panel and PC HMIs.

Arrow keys

A small button that allows an operator to navigate through screens, menus, and input fields. Arrow keys usually include an up arrow, a down arrow, a left arrow, and a right arrow.

Automation

The use of self-regulated equipment, processes, or systems that meet manufacturing requirements with limited human intervention. Automation is an efficient means of performing manufacturing processes.

Canned cycle

A predetermined machining sequence used to simplify programming. A canned cycle sequence is initiated by a single G code.

Cartesian coordinates

A set of numerical values that describe the location of an object along three linear axes. Cartesian coordinates are used to describe the position and orientation of robotic arms.

CNC

Computer numerical control. A self-contained system of computers and precision motors that executes program instructions to guide machine tool components and manufacture parts. CNC machines use part programs to control the cutting operations required to create a part.

Computer numerical control

CNC. A self-contained system of computers and precision motors that executes program instructions to guide machine tool components and manufacture parts. Computer numerical control machines use part programs to control the machine operations required to create a part.

Control panels

A group of controls that allow an operator to interact with a specific machine. Control panels usually consist of a display screen and multiple input devices.

Controllers

A digital device that processes incoming information and turns that information into instructions. Controllers communicate these instructions to connected machines.

Cranes

A lifting device that moves loads with a hoisting mechanism. Cranes can provide both vertical and horizontal movement.

Cursor

A moving marker on a computer screen that indicates which areas will be affected by user input. Cursors are often arrows, pointing hands, or vertical lines.

Customized

Created for a specific situation or application. HMIs are usually customized for a particular machine or process.

Digital

Consisting of information that is input or output electronically as a series of pulses or signals, often resulting in binary strings of 0s and 1s. Digital computing devices interpret various programming commands as binary digits.

Display screen

A screen connected to a digital device that shows important information to the operator. Display screens are usually part of an HMI.

Emergency stops

E-stops. A button or switch that brings a machine to a safe, rapid stop. Emergency stops are generally large red buttons against a yellow background.

Enter key

A small button that selects the icon or option currently highlighted on a display screen. Enter keys are found on most keyboards and keypads.

Feed rate

The rate at which the cutting tool moves along the workpiece or vice versa. Feed rate typically measures linear movement.

Forklifts

A small powered industrial vehicle that has two prongs on the front for lifting material. Forklifts are used to transport heavy loads.

Function keys

A small button that allows an operator to select pre-existing programs. Function keys vary between machines and applications.

G code

A programming language that uses letters and numbers to form commands for machine tools. G code programs are used to direct tool movements in additive manufacturing, CNC machining, and hybrid machining.

Graphical user interface

GUI. A method of interacting with a computer or operating system via visual elements on a screen. Graphical user interfaces may use icons, menus, and other graphical tools.

GUI

Graphical user interface. A method of interacting with a computer or operating system via visual elements on a screen. GUIs may use icons, menus, and other graphical tools.

Headless HMI

An HMI that consists of a small computer with no a display screen or input devices. Operators connect to a headless HMI through the IIoT using a mobile device such as a tablet.

HMIs

Human-machine interfaces. A peripheral device connected to a controller that allows an operator to send commands and receive information from connected machines. An HMI usually includes a display screen and one or more input devices.

Human-machine interface

HMI. A peripheral device connected to a controller that allows an operator to send commands and receive information from connected machines. A human-machine interface usually includes a display screen and one or more input devices.

Hydraulic fluid

A liquid, typically oil, that flows through a hydraulic system to transfer power. Hydraulic fluid must be kept within a safe pressure range.

Hydraulic press

A device that uses hydraulic power to generate compressive forces. Hydraulic presses often use oil-based hydraulic fluid.

Hydraulic pumps

A mechanical power source that creates fluid flow to move liquid through a hydraulic system. Hydraulic pumps receive energy from a prime mover, such as a motor or engine.

Icons

A small picture or symbol that an operator uses to interact with a GUI. Operators can select icons using a finger or cursor.

IIoT

Industrial Internet of Things. A network of physical devices used in manufacturing that contain computing systems that allow them to send and receive data. The IIoT allows devices to exchange data and automate processes without any human intervention.

Industrial Internet of Things

IIoT. A network of physical devices used in manufacturing that contain computing systems that allow them to send and receive data. The Industrial Internet of Things allows devices to exchange data and automate processes without any human intervention.

Input devices

A mechanism that allows an operator to communicate with a machine. Input devices include buttons, keyboards, and touchscreens.

Joystick

A vertical handle or lever that allows remote, but hands-on, operation of a machine. Joysticks are common in HMIs for robots, cranes, and forklifts.

Key switches

A manual control device with a built-in lock that only works when a matching key is inserted. Key switches are often used for hazardous operations.

Keyboards

A large set of buttons including a full set of letters and numbers along with other symbols and commands. Keyboards are included with some control panel HMIs and most PCs.

Keypads

A small set of buttons labeled with numbers, letters, and symbols. Keypads are common HMI input devices.

Ladder logic

A graphical programming language that uses simple symbols to indicate the status of input and output devices. Ladder logic program instructions are displayed in a ladder diagram.

lockout/tagout

LOTO. A method of protecting employees by preventing accidental machine startup through proper locking and labeling of machines during maintenance. Lockout/tagout is the common term for OSHA's Control of Hazardous Energy Standard.

Machining centers

A sophisticated CNC mill that can perform multiple machining operations in the same setup. Machining centers can hold a wide variety of cutting tools, such as face mills, end mills, and holemaking tools.

Menus

A list of options in a GUI display. Operators navigate menus and select options using input devices.

Mill

A machine that uses a rotating multi-point tool to remove metal from the surface of a workpiece. Mills may be operated either manually or by computer numerical control (CNC).

Mouse

A small, handheld device with one or more buttons that operators move along a flat surface to control a cursor on a screen. A mouse usually has a left button for selection and a right button to open menus.

PCs

Personal computers. A processor-driven device that runs multiple programs and processes simultaneously. A PC running the correct software can function as an HMI.

Personal computers

PCs. A processor-driven device that runs multiple programs and processes simultaneously. A personal computer running the correct software can function as an HMI.

Pick-and-place

A robot or robotic device that moves parts from one location to another. Pick-and-place robots, sometimes called part-transfer robots, improve the precision, quality, and speed of manufacturing operations.

PLCs

Programmable logic controllers. A processor-driven device that uses logic-based software to provide electrical control to machines. PLCs are used in factory automation.

Programmable logic controllers

PLCs. A processor-driven device that uses logic-based software to provide electrical control to machines. Programmable logic controllers are used in factory automation.

Programming language

A set of symbols and rules used to present information to a processor. Programming languages are used to tell a processor how to carry out a process.

Programs

A computer-based series of commands that contains all the instructions and information necessary to complete a specific task. Programs are essential to all digital devices, including PLCs, PCs, smartphones, and tablets.

Pushbuttons

A manual control device that opens or closes a circuit when pressed. Pushbuttons a commonly used for basic functions such as starting and stopping a machine.

Revolutions per minute

rpm. The number of times a component rotates in a complete circle in one minute. Revolutions per minute is a measurement of speed.

Robotic arm

A programmable or remote-controlled device that simulates the movement of a human arm. Robotic arms have joints that allow linear and rotational movements.

Robots

A mechanical device that can be programmed to perform a variety of complicated, repetitive tasks. Robots are used to automate manufacturing processes.

Rocker switches

A manual control device with a button that tilts between two positions. Rocker switches are often used to turn devices on or off.

Selector switches

A rotating manual control device that makes connections with different contacts when turned to different positions. Selector switches allow operators to choose between a limited set of options.

Sensors

A device that detects a change in a physical stimulus and turns it into a signal that can be measured or recorded. Sensors allow machines to send data to the HMI and enable operators to monitor processes.

Sliders

A GUI element that allows a user to adjust a setting by moving an indicator along a track. Sliders are often used in HMIs to control settings such as speed and temperature.

Smart manufacturing

Technologically integrated manufacturing that creates and uses data in real time to address the needs of the factory, supplier, and customer. Smart manufacturing is an advancement of traditional manufacturing automation.

Smartphone

A small mobile device that functions as both a phone and a computer. Smartphones are able to connect to and send data across the internet.

Software

The programs and instructions that a processor-driven device carries out. Software enables HMIs to communicate with controllers and connected machines.

Stamping

A metal forming operation that uses dies to shape or cut sheet metal into parts. Stamping can be performed on a press.

Supervisory control and data acquisition

SCADA. An industrial system used to monitor and control multiple manufacturing operations. Supervisory control and data acquisition systems can control processes throughout one facility or across multiple facilities.

Tablet

A flat, rectangular handheld computer that is usually controlled by a touchscreen. Tablets are mobile devices that allow users to connect to the internet.

Toggle switches

A manual control device with a small lever that moves between two positions. Toggle switches are often used to turn devices on and off.

Touchpad

An input device consisting of a flat surface that detects the movement of an operator's fingers to control a cursor. Touchpads are common input devices on PCs and laptops.

Touchscreen

A display screen that is designed to respond to the touch and movement of an operator's fingers. Touchscreens are common HMI input devices.

variable frequency drive

VFD. A device that converts incoming 60 Hz AC power into other desired frequencies. Variable frequency drives can be used to control the speed of AC motors.