HMI is not a web page
Article#: 00100
Date: 2024-10-05
Author: Radim
Although modern human-machine interfaces (HMIs) are often developed using web technologies and displayed in web browsers, the design of HMIs should not be equated with the design of standard websites.
The design of an HMI follows entirely different principles, as operators use these interfaces to monitor and control machines involved in production, where operational errors can have serious consequences, such as accidents resulting in injury, environmental damage, equipment damage, compromised product quality, production downtime, and more.
On a typical website, the primary goal is to engage visitors with content and maintain their attention.
In contrast, the main objective of an HMI is to focus the operator's attention solely on critical elements and relevant information necessary for system operation.
Unlike web pages, where aesthetics often take precedence, HMI design must prioritize safety, reliability, and functionality.
HMI needs to be efficient, intuitive, and easy to use, ensuring that operators can perform tasks effectively, even under pressure.
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Related previous articles:
- HMI - Don't overdo it with complex design
- HMI - Have a consistent style
- High Performance HMI
- Graphic designer
- Talk to operators
- Clear signals
- Design considerations for effective HMIS
- Knowledge gained from a completed project is priceless
- Are there also any disadvantages?
- Think critically!
- Design machines with a focus on user's abilities and needs
- Learn from your journey!
- Why do automation projects fail?
- Who will operate?
- Functional and intuitive HMI
- HMI and PLC applications should grow together
- More than just start and stop
- Safety first!
- Do the right things and do them right!
- Define test scenarios and test cases continuously!
- Don't make it worse!
- Industrial evolution - Listen to your customers and follow new trends!
- Don't disappoint your customer!
- Ask questions!
- Develop a sense of responsibility!
- Focus on target!
- Don't hide any problem!
- Check the result!
- Keep it simple!
- Development is evolution
- Transparency and reliability
- From an idea to a consistent system
Related next articles:
- Choosing an HMI display
- HMI layout and correct display size
- HMI layout design
- HMI navigation
- HMI - back and forward navigation buttons
- HMI – Don’t hide anything
- HMI - annoying pop-up windows
- HMI - colors in the visualization
- What makes an HMI intuitive?
Comment#: 00001
Date: 2025-02-18
User: Radim
Why is the hamburger menu not ideal for industrial visualization?
Recently, the hamburger menu has become increasingly common in industrial HMI systems. While this element is widely used in mobile and web applications, it may not be the best choice for industrial visualization.
The main drawback is that it hides important control elements (buttons) and requires an extra click. Users first have to open the menu before selecting the desired function. This reduces efficiency and can be a problem, especially in environments where speed and clarity are crucial.
A better solution is a fixed toolbar with the key control elements (buttons). It provides immediate access to essential functions, improves user orientation, and reduces the time needed to perform an action. Of course, this should be considered already at the beginning of the project - especially when choosing a sufficiently large display that allows a clear arrangement of the control elements on the screen.
Do you use a hamburger menu in your HMI systems, or do you prefer fixed toolbar with the most important buttons?