Smart HMI stick launched at Embedded World 2014

Escatec, Smart HMI and UID have launched the Smart HMI stick at Embedded World Show 2014.

Escatec, Smart HMI and UID have launched the Smart HMI stick at Embedded World Show 2014.

The device is expected to open up new simpler ways to wirelessly control machines with tablets and smartphones.

A major problem with many machines is that the human machine interface (HMI) is often a small basic control box with a small display and a few buttons that is hard to read and adjust. However, there is usually a USB port that engineers can plug into and link to a laptop for diagnostics and controlling settings. This port can now be used to create a much more user-friendly control interface by using a USB stick to create a short-range Wi-Fi link to a tablet or smartphone that runs a custom app to control the machine.

This solution will appeal to companies that want to create HMIs for new and existing machines with a more intuitive and easier-to-use interface at a minimal cost. Applications include industrial machinery, heating systems, air-conditioning plants, production equipment, laboratory equipment, test and measurement devices, home automation systems, medical equipment, etc.

The solution is collaboration between three companies, each bringing their particular area of expertise to create a solution that integrates form, functionality and branding. It is being marketed by start-up company Smart HMI GmbH that will create the apps to suit customers’ machines in cooperation with usability and user experience expert User Interface Design (UID) GmbH. The Smart HMI Stick has been designed by Escatec, a European contract designer.