Machine Control Interface With Real-Time Parameter Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current human-machine interfaces for complex machines like injection molding machines lack ergonomics, safety, and intuitive operability, particularly in settings where interdependent parameters need to be manually controlled and monitored in real-time.
Innovation Solution
A human-machine interface with a control input unit and parameter input unit that allows for bidirectional manual control of machine functions, combined with a parameter display unit for real-time feedback, using a touch-sensitive screen and modulable light displays to enhance safety and ergonomics, enabling simultaneous control and monitoring of parameters like speed, pressure, and temperature.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual control of machine positioning is implemented using conventional interfaces, then basic control functionality is achieved, but ergonomics and intuitive operability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The control interface is segmented into distinct functional zones: a control input unit with directional buttons for positioning commands, a parameter input unit for speed control, and a parameter display unit with visual feedback. This segmentation allows each zone to specialize in specific tasks, improving ergonomics and intuitiveness while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The parameter display unit provides real-time visual feedback on machine position and control parameters through a bargraph display. This feedback mechanism allows operators to immediately see the effect of their inputs, improving intuitive operability and reducing the cognitive load associated with complex interfaces.
2Productivity
If high positioning speeds are used to complete positioning functions quickly, then productivity increases, but safety risks increase particularly near end positions or under high pressure/force conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The parameter input unit enables dynamic adjustment of positioning speed during operation. The bargraph display visually represents the current speed level, allowing operators to quickly adapt speed settings to match operational conditions. This dynamic control allows high speeds for routine positioning while enabling immediate reduction near end positions or under high pressure conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
Real-time visual feedback through the bargraph display informs operators of current positioning speed and machine state. This feedback enables safe high-speed operation by providing continuous awareness, allowing operators to respond immediately when safety conditions change, thus maintaining both productivity and safety.
3Adaptability or versatility
If independent control of actuator function and parameters is implemented, then operational flexibility and safety improve, but interface complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The interface is divided into independent but coordinated units: the control input unit for actuator function selection and the parameter input unit for parameter control. This segmentation enables independent control of actuator function and parameters, improving operational flexibility while keeping each unit's complexity manageable through clear functional separation.
Solution Approach 2:
The parameter input unit and bargraph display serve multiple functions: they control and display positioning speed, can potentially control other parameters, and provide visual feedback on machine state. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated controls for each parameter, managing interface complexity while maintaining operational flexibility.
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2~3
Figure 4a~4b
AI summary
The invention relates to a human machine interface (1) for simultaneously and interactively controlling a control function of a machine (3). The human machine interface (1) comprises a control input unit (5) by means of which a control parameter of a control function of the machine (3) can be simultaneously manually operated in accordance with a parameter input (27), a parameter input unit (7) which can be controlled independently from the control input device (5) and which enables a control parameter of the control function to be manually controlled, and a parameter display unit (9) arranged together with the parameter input unit (7) and which enables fedback of the control parameter to be manually controlled. As a result, the intuitive ease of operation, the security and ergonomics are improved such that a control parameter of the control function dependent on the control function can be manually controlled simultaneously by means of the control input unit (5) and that the parameter display unit (9) enables information relating to the desired value or an actual value of the manually controlled parameter and which is present on the machine (3) can be fed back.