Embedded Web Browser Layout for Secure Process HMI Graphics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current industrial process control systems face challenges in efficiently configuring and customizing operator Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs) due to increased complexity and the need for operators to manage numerous process graphics, leading to difficulties in designing and maintaining effective HMI graphics and layouts across diverse process plants.
Innovation Solution
A graphical display configuration system that allows for real-time customization of display views within the operating environment without halting execution, using a centralized configuration database and user interface to define and publish display view configurations, enabling operators to change appearances and behaviors independently on their workstations without relying on the configuration environment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If operators need to manage numerous process graphics and customize HMI displays, then the versatility and adaptability of the system improves, but the device complexity and difficulty of configuration increases
Solution Approach 1:
The HMI configuration is segmented into modular display modules that can be independently configured, selected, and arranged. Each display module represents a self-contained unit with specific functionality, allowing operators to build complex interfaces from simple building blocks without managing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides a universal configuration mechanism that works across all HMI displays and device types. The modular display modules can be applied to various display technologies (LCD, LED, projection) and device forms (workstations, mobile devices, augmented reality glasses) through a common configuration approach, eliminating the need for separate configuration systems for each display type.
2Ease of operation
If real-time customization of display views is enabled without halting execution, then the ease of operation improves, but the reliability and stability of ongoing operations may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Display module configurations are prepared and validated in advance before being applied to running systems. The configuration system allows operators to define and preview display module arrangements before activation, ensuring that changes are ready-to-deploy and will not disrupt ongoing process control operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces a configuration management layer that acts as an intermediary between operators and the running control system. This intermediary handles all configuration changes, validating them before application and managing the transition without affecting the stability of ongoing process control operations.
3Productivity
If multiple display modules are integrated into a single HMI interface, then the functionality and information density improve, but the ease of operation and interface simplicity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The HMI interface is divided into discrete, independently configurable display modules that can be selectively activated. Operators can choose to display only the modules relevant to current operational needs, maintaining interface simplicity while having access to extensive functionality when required.
Solution Approach 2:
The HMI interface dynamically adapts its complexity based on operational context. Display modules can be added or removed from the active interface depending on the process state, operator preferences, and device capabilities, allowing the interface to remain simple during routine operations while providing comprehensive information during complex scenarios.
Data Source
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Figure 2A
AI summary
Techniques for embedding a web browser in a graphical display view of a process plant include presenting a graphical display view including (i) indications of one or more process control elements, such as a control module, a function block, a process plant entity, or a process section of the process plant, and (ii) a web browser having web content from a source address. The web browser is presented according to one or several presentation parameters, such as such as a size and position of the web browser within the display view. Furthermore, the presentation parameters include restrictions on functions performed within the web browser, such as a sandbox or sandbox attributes. The presentation parameters also include a source whitelist that specifies web addresses which are allowed to be set as the source address for presenting web content.