Human machine interfaces (HMI) are often used by businesses to streamline the manufacturing of goods and products. Also known as a man-machine interface, an HMI is a type of user interface that allows a human worker to control a machine. Some people assume that HMIs are the same as standard user interfaces, but this isn’t necessarily true. User interfaces typically allow users to control multiple machines, devices or pieces of equipment through a single interface, wheres HMIs allow users to control a single machine, device or piece of equipment, also through a single interface.
Investing in HMI solutions, however, is a smart financial investment for businesses. Among other things, it can help businesses increase their productivity levels. And when a business becomes more productive, it’s typically able to produce and sell more products, thereby increasing its profits. So, how exactly can an HMI increase productivity for businesses?
Lower Risk of Injury
Implementing an HMI solution can reduce the risk of injury among workers. With the right HMI solution, workers can use machines to perform otherwise difficult and laborious tasks. As a result, there’s a lower risk of injury. This is important because work-related injuries can have a negative impact on a business’s productivity. It forces workers to take time off so that they heal and receive medical attention, which in turn lowers the business’s productivity.
Automation
HMIs also allow businesses to leverage the power of automation. Even if a certain task can be performed by a human worker, a machine might be able to do it better and in less time. Using an HMI, workers can automate these tasks by programming them into a computer. This is just one more way that HMIs can improve productivity in the workplace.
Lower Risk of Error
It’s also worth noting that HMIs have a lower risk of error than manual work. Workers can use HMIs to accurately and effectively perform machine-related tasks. Without an HMI, there’s a greater risk that a worker will make a mistake. Mistakes, of course, can lower a business’s productivity.
Monitor KPIs
Finally, some HMIs come with analytical solutions that allow businesses to monitor and measure key performance indicators (KPIs). Businesses can access an HMI to see how many products were manufactured for the day. If this number falls short of their target goal, they can make the necessary changes to their workflow to increase it. These are just a few ways that HMIs can increase productivity for businesses.
