Machine-to-machine communication and a modern, touch-enabled device means there’s no need to stand around an HMI to diagnose and solve a problem.
Machine-to-machine communication might benefit from the right touch—specifically the right multi-touch input displays. Along with the ability of modern HMIs to remotely collect data, the technology could give control engineers new tools and capabilities.
An example of how this might unfold comes from Lenze. The automation supplier announced a panel controller a year ago that features an ARM processor, Ethernet connectivity, a USB port and a resistive touch display.