This article introduces the basics of human-computer interface (HCI ) and is intended to be helpful to new readers who are new to HCI.
I. Basic Knowledge of Human-Machine Interface (HMI) Products
1. Definition of Human-Machine Interface Products
A digital device that connects to industrial control equipment such as programmable logic controllers (PLCs), frequency converters, DC speed controllers, and instruments, and uses a display screen to show the information and inputs working parameters or operation commands through input units (such as touch screens, keyboards, mice, etc.) to realize human-machine information interaction, consists of two parts: hardware and software.
2. Composition and working principle of Human-Machine Interface (HMI) products
Human-Machine Interface ( HMI) products consist of two parts: hardware and software. The hardware includes a processor, display unit, input unit, communication interface, and data storage unit. The processor's performance determines the overall performance of the HMI product and is its core component. Depending on the product level, 8-bit, 16-bit, or 32-bit processors can be selected. HMI software generally consists of two parts: system software running on the HMI hardware and screen configuration software (such as JB-HMI screen configuration software) running on a PC with a Windows operating system. Users must first create a "project file" using the HMI screen configuration software, and then download the created "project file" to the HMI's processor for execution via the serial communication port between the PC and the HMI product.
3. Basic functions and selection criteria of human-computer interface products
Basic functions:
Equipment operating status display, such as indicator lights, buttons, text, graphics, curves, etc.
Data and text input operations, printing output
Production formula storage, equipment production data recording
Simple logic and numerical operations
It can connect to a network of various industrial control devices.
Selection criteria:
Display screen size, color, and resolution
HMI processor speed performance
Input method: Touch screen or membrane keyboard
When specifying screen storage capacity, pay attention to whether the manufacturer indicates the unit of capacity as bytes or bits.
What types and quantities of communication ports are available, and does it support printing?
4. Human-Computer Interface Product Classification
HMIs with membrane key input have a display size smaller than 5.7 inches, and the screen configuration software is free; they are considered entry-level products. Examples include the POP-HMI, a small human-machine interface .
The HMI features touchscreen input, with a display size ranging from 5.7 to 12.1 inches. The screen configuration software is free, classifying it as a mid-range product.
This high-performance HMI, based on a tablet PC and featuring multiple communication ports, has a display size greater than 10.4 inches. The screen configuration software is not included and it is considered a high-end product.
5. How to use the human-computer interface
Define the monitoring task requirements and select appropriate HMI products.
Mechanical and Electrical Engineering Technology Network
Edit the "project file" using screen configuration software on a PC.
Test and save the edited "project file".
Connect the PC to the HMI hardware and download the "project file" to the HMI.
Connect HMI and industrial controllers (such as PLCs, instruments, etc.) to achieve human-machine interaction.
