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What is an industrial user interface?

HMIs (human machine interfaces) are control panels for industrial machines. We design custom operator panels, integrated into the machine’s electronics and developed for advanced industrial applications.

What is an industrial user interface?

An industrial user interface, or HMI (human machine interface), represents the point of contact between the operator and the control system. It integrates industrial displays, physical input systems, and embedded software logic into a single solution designed for installation on machinery.

Industrial user interface design allows information, alarms, and machine parameters to be organized in a clear and structured way, improving operational control and reducing errors.

How is an industrial operator panel designed?

User interface design starts from the machine’s technical specifications and the context of use. The operating environment, installation conditions, type of required controls, and expected interaction methods are analyzed.
The goal is to create a robust operator panel, integrated with the control electronics and consistent with the functional logic of the machine.

Lexan keypad

A solution with keys positioned under a Lexan membrane, customizable in terms of graphics and colors. Suitable for environments with dust, humidity, or external agents, it ensures protection and operational continuity.

Capacitive glass keypad

A high-resistance glass surface activated by touch. Ideal for applications requiring high mechanical robustness and ease of cleaning.

Rotary switch

A navigation device based on rotation and pressing, useful for selecting menus and adjusting machine parameters with precision, even in demanding operating conditions.

Which displays are used in user interface design?

The choice of display is central in industrial user interface design.

7-segment display

Available in various sizes and colors, they ensure high brightness and excellent visibility even from a distance or in strongly lit environments.

Color displays

Available in different sizes and resolutions, from 2.4″ and 3.5″ (320×240) to 4.3″ (480×240), up to 5.7″, 7″, and 10.1″ with resolutions up to 1920×1080. They allow clear visualization of parameters, graphs, and machine status.

Resistive touchscreen

A technology suitable for industrial environments, usable with gloves and characterized by high reliability.

Capacitive touchscreen

A high-sensitivity and precision solution, suitable for operator panels with a fully sealed surface.

Micro Systems has also developed a range of standard industrial user interfaces configurable according to the application.

How do we develop software for operator panels?

Software development is a fundamental part of user interface design.
In the initial project planning phase, the machine’s functional specifications, navigation structure, and graphical representation of the operator panel are defined.
Subsequently, the following are implemented:

  • application logic

  • parameter management

  • data structures for information storage

  • integration with firmware and control electronics

During development, debugging and functional testing activities are carried out to ensure stability and performance. New features can be integrated over time, extending the system’s capabilities.
Video and audio elements can be implemented based on application requirements.
The Agile methodology enables clear planning of development phases and definition of software releases.

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Why choose Micro Systems for user interface design?

Designing user interfaces for industrial machines requires integrated expertise in electronics, firmware, and embedded systems. Micro Systems’ technical and industrial approach enables the development of robust, integrated operator panels designed to last over time.

An operator panel represents the point of contact between the operator and the machine. User interface design must ensure clarity, reliability, and robustness in real operating conditions.”

Tiziana Tosi, Owner of Micro Systems

    Do you want to develop an operator panel for your machine?

    Contact us to explore the user interface design solutions we can develop for your company.

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    FAQ – Electronic Board Design

    What is custom electronic board design?
    It is the process of developing hardware and firmware tailored to specific industrial applications.
    How long does it take to design an electronic board?
    It depends on the complexity of the project, the number of features, and the level of integration required.
    What is the difference between standard and custom electronic boards?
    Standard boards are generic products, while custom electronic boards are designed to specific technical requirements for a particular machine or application.
    Which industries use custom electronics?
    Industrial automation, special machinery, process control, packaging, refrigeration, and embedded systems.