HMI Template System for Machine Tool Dialog Mask Flexibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing production machines and machine tools lack flexibility in the specification and processing of dialog masks, which are typically programmed specifically for each application situation, limiting their adaptability and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating HMI instructions into a part program that can be executed by a processor, using a processing component to evaluate and generate HMI outputs based on the machine's status, allowing for flexible display and configuration of dialog masks through a language element evaluation unit and HMI element administration unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If dialog masks are programmed specifically for each application situation, then the machine can perform its basic function, but flexibility in specification and processing of dialog masks is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a template-based HMI system where a single template can serve multiple dialog mask applications. The template defines reusable elements (labels, input fields, buttons) that can be instantiated across different application situations, allowing one HMI structure to fulfill multiple functions rather than requiring separate custom programming for each application.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by pre-defining HMI templates with standard elements and structures before actual dialog mask creation. These templates contain pre-configured elements like title labels, input fields, and button arrangements that are prepared in advance and can be automatically instantiated when needed, eliminating the need for on-demand programming of each dialog mask.
2Ease of manufacture
If custom dialog masks are programmed for each application, then specific application requirements are met, but time and resources are consumed for creating and maintaining separate HMI code
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs copying by creating reusable HMI templates that can be instantiated multiple times across different applications. Instead of programming each dialog mask from scratch, the system copies the structural definition and elements from the template, automatically generating the necessary HMI code through instantiation parameters rather than manual programming for each case.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements self-service by automatically generating dialog mask HMI code from templates through parameter specification. The template-based approach allows the system to self-generate the necessary interface elements, labels, and structures without requiring manual programming intervention for each dialog mask, reducing both time and resource consumption.
3Productivity
If HMI instructions are embedded in the part program, then display can be directly dependent on program status, but separation of HMI logic from machine control is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by separating HMI template definitions from machine control logic. The template system creates a distinct layer for HMI structure definition that is separate from the part program execution, allowing HMI generation to be handled independently while maintaining direct dependency on program status through parameter passing and event triggering.
Data Source
AI summary
A production machine or machine tool has a memory into which a part program incorporating HMI instructions in the form of script segments is loaded, wherein the HMI instructions are evaluated by a processing component during the execution of the part program and wherein a display unit is controlled by the processing component for displaying HMI outputs. A corresponding method and a computer program for executing the method are also disclosed.