Trends and future direction of HMIs

The latest trends in HMI technology are driving the next phase of industrial advancement:

3D System Visualizations 
The integration of 3D modeling and virtual reality (VR) techniques is giving rise to a new generation of HMIs. This enables a more immersive, spatial understanding of industrial systems, leading to improved decision-making and enhanced situational awareness.

Voice and Gesture Control Interfaces
Imagine controlling industrial equipment using hand gestures or voice commands. Gesture control and voice recognition are gaining traction in industrial environments, enabling hands-free operation. This technology is particularly beneficial in hazardous settings where manual interaction could be risky.

Mobile HMIs
Many HMI providers now offer mobile solutions, which are invaluable for operators needing to monitor and manage systems remotely. Mobile devices and tablets are also being used as HMIs through dedicated apps, facilitating remote control and monitoring—a growing asset in today’s flexible work environments and distributed manufacturing.

Looking ahead, the future of HMIs is set to elevate supervisory control, data acquisition, and process management to new heights.

AI Integration for Predictive Maintenance 
HMIs will increasingly incorporate AI and machine learning to deliver predictive analytics, allowing for the anticipation of equipment failures before they occur. This proactive maintenance approach will significantly reduce both downtime and maintenance costs.

Human-Centered Design 
As industrial systems grow, HMIs will increasingly focus on user-centered design. Interfaces will be customized to meet the unique needs of individual operators, considering their preferences and skill levels.

Wearable HMIs
Wearable technology is expanding beyond fitness, making its way into industrial HMIs. Smart glasses and wrist-worn devices are providing operators with hands-free interfaces for controlling and monitoring processes, opening up new possibilities for efficiency and safety.

Top of Page