Software Models for Standardizing the Human-Machine Interface Connection to a Machine Controller

In manufacturing, the Human Machine Interface (HMI) handles the human interaction with a machine controller. Currently, in computer numerically controlled (CNC) machines, most HMIs are tied to a CNC using a proprietary connection that leads to non-reusable, vendor-specific, application software resulting in costlier integration. With a standard HMI-Controller Application Programming Interface (API), users should be able to reduce costs by shortening the development cycle associated with each vendor’s software/hardware interface. A worldwide effort among a variety of participants in the CNC standards community is underway to develop a single HMI-Controller API. This paper will review a series of potential API approaches for the HMI-Controller connection as a progression from a flat name space library to a component-based technology. Included is a discussion on the approach selected by the worldwide HMI-Controller API effort.