Breaking Traditions: KEB Automation Releases a New Web-Based HMI

With the release of the new web-based C6 X1 HMI from KEB Automation, integrators and machine builders will gain a new and flexible solution for their HMI needs. Machine builders and integrators no longer have to rely on mounting their HMI to the control cabinet thanks to the variety of features of the C6 X1. KEB Automation’s C6 X1 boasts a slim design and multiple mounting options to ensure an easy fit for the HMI into any automation system.

 

Web HMI C6 X1 Specs

KEB Automation’s C6 X1 is equipped with a Chromium-based HTML5 browser and a Linux Operating system. The capacitive multi-touch screen will be available in four sizes allowing integrators to select the perfect size for their system: 7”, 10.1”, 15.6”, or 21.5”. The C6 X1 supports power-over-Ethernet (PoE) allowing for simple connectivity of devices while reducing the costs of installation and complexity of wiring.

 

The Web HMI C6 X1 uses a browser to present machine information and allows operators to view and input commands. Image used courtesy of KEB Automation

 

The HMI is certified with an IP67 rating, meaning the HMI is dustproof and protected against accidental immersion in water. The C6 X1 has an operating temperature tolerance from -20 to 55 degrees Celsius without additional housing. KEB Automation also provides a variety of hardware to mount the HMI anywhere that best fits the machine or cell specifications.

 

KEB Automation shows the versatility in mounting with their gooseneck and tubing mount. Image used courtesy of KEB Automation

 

The C6 X1 also uses the modern visualization system HELIO to create powerful and adaptive HMI applications quickly and easily. Helio is a No-Code system that uses an easy-to-learn graphical development environment which allows integrators and machine builders to spend more time on machine building rather than coding the HMI, saving time and money! Helio also allows for live data that can be displayed while editing.

 

KEB Automation’s C6 X1 comes equipped with HELIO Runtime for ease of programming. Image used courtesy of HELIO

 

What’s So Special About Web-Based HMIs?

If you’re unfamiliar with web-based HMIs, or perhaps you’re a little skeptical of changing from traditional graphical tag-based industrial HMIs, Control.com provides an excellent overview article: “Web-Based Industrial HMIs: What’s the Difference?”

For those who just want a quick explanation, a web-based HMI uses a web browser to present machine and troubleshooting data to the operator and also allows the operator to input data into the system. This means that the data must be accessible from a central computer system (or cloud location) with which the HMI can communicate, sort of like looking right at a web page on your HMI.

Web-based browsers also have many advantages over simple graphical HMIs. Web-based HMIs allow for platform independence, communication, scalability, and remote access. This means the HMI can be accessed from any device that uses a web browser, like a tablet, laptop, or even a smartphone. This allows maintenance personnel, operators, and management the ability to monitor or control processes from anywhere. Updates and maintenance of machines can easily be scheduled to minimize downtime. Since any device with a web browser can access the HMI, this can lead to reduced costs in project development.

Due to the expanded connectivity, cyber and operational security remain among the most crucial aspects of long-term effectiveness in the creation of these web-based HMI systems, and companies like KEB America are working hard to ensure modern effectiveness for greeted operational success for customers.