We developed an innovative HMI (Human-Machine Interface) concept for the Nedschroef family of cold forming machines.
This project was characterised by its international focus, with user research appointments in three different countries. The user survey was crucial for the development of a user-friendly HMI system. In collaboration with SmartHMI, we integrated new features that emerged directly from user feedback, such as QR code integration and the machine module view. The project shows how valuable user research is for the development of an efficient and user-friendly HMI system and emphasises how design and functionality can be seamlessly linked.
The HMI design is closely linked to the branding of the machines and reflects its aesthetics in the user interface. One particular design decision is the integration of the machine's angled lines into the HMI, achieving visual consistency throughout. A notable UX feature is that the operator view is kept dark and minimalistic once the dark side door of the machine is closed and production is started. However, as soon as the user makes adjustments to the HMI, such as error handling, the interface changes to a light-coloured UI. This reflects the moment when the user opens the side door and looks ‘inside the machine’, so to speak.
The new user interface improves machine operation with a historical message list that displays messages sorted by time and criticality, as well as a detailed display of errors that provides precise diagnostics and visual representations. Checklists and changeover instructions have also been integrated into the user interface, which increases user-friendliness and efficiency.
User-centredness also plays a central role in detailed processes. If the user wants to change complex, interrelated parameters, this is supported by a process graphic that visualises the changes and makes them immediately understandable. The product change wizard guides the user through the process step by step. Both features make a significant contribution to operating and process reliability and save a considerable amount of time.
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Strama-MPS Maschinenbau GmbH & Co. KG, a renowned manufacturer of special machines and systems, is setting new standards in the field of human-machine interface (HMI) development in collaboration with our team. The implementation was carried out with the help of the Siemens Unified implementation tool, which we exploited to the full in close cooperation with Strama.
The latest generation of Coperion’s compounding and extrusion systems stands out particularly with a user-optimized operating concept. We developed both the visual design and the usability and user experience concept of the HMI. For the trade fair prototype we carried out the technical implementation using web technology.
The HMI from KIEFEL Packaging relies on self-explanatory illustrations and animations. It makes the highly complex technology easy to understand and thus facilitates the input of parameters. We developed the usability and user experience concept as well as the visual design for the HMI.
