The (right) technology can lend a hand.
When a company experiences a high turnover problem, several difficulties arise. In particular:
- Slowdown in production;
- Time and resources for the search for new specialized personnel and for their eventual training.
In a scenario like this, technology can indeed lend a hand. In this regard, at Maticorp, we proposed to one of our partner companies a new solution to address high personnel turnover efficiently. We envisioned that they might need assistance in this area, so we proposed to the machine manufacturer an alternative to the traditional interface that typically accompanies these systems. Specifically, drawing on our extensive experience in the industrial sector and IT expertise, we developed an entirely revamped interface called "Easy Manage." We contributed to designing a solution focused on optimization and effectiveness of processes.
Human-Machine: a more intuitive communication
During the design of "Easy Manage," we focused on the final part of the production process, specifically the palletization of the product. This process involves the use of a robot to select the product for boxing and placement on pallets. Our intervention resulted in the creation of a user-friendly human-machine interface, one that is simple and intuitive. This ensures that any operator can easily use it.
The implementation of a simplified interface guarantees:
- Accessible information to anyone;
- Intuitive human-machine interaction;
- The elimination of language barriers (there are no textual information, except in the section dedicated to alarms);
- A high reduction in training for the operator.
An HMI (Human-Machine Interface) is a device or software that allows an operator to "communicate" with machinery or a production system. In essence, it converts a vast amount of complex data into information understandable to any operator. Furthermore, if this type of interface, as in the specific case, utilizes graphical elements such as icons, it further aids less experienced operators in navigating the facility with ease. An important aspect concerns its adaptation to Industry 4.0. There is indeed the possibility of remote access to the facility, with significant advantages also in terms of maintenance. Timely contextual information is provided, with remote accessibility for technical assistance and the possibility of remotely accessing the interface on mobile devices and PCs for customer assistance and maintenance. The Industry 4.0 readiness is also compatible with management systems.
The advantages
This type of user-friendly human-machine approach encompasses multiple advantages. And the intuitive configuration allows for easy process programming. But there's more.
- maximum security. At the time of login, the interface is capable of recognizing the user, thus, functions related to maintenance or assistance will not appear on the screen;
- absence of text indicators: the HMI can be used even by non-native personnel;
- marked ease of use, comparable to that of a common smartphone.