Automation AG has developed a new generation of modular operating units. Designed for mobile applications, for example on lifting ramps, the concept opens up a completely new way of individually creating operating units quickly even with small production quantities and without high development costs. MOBA will present the new HMI concept for the first time at booth 1150 at the APEX in Maastricht from the 14th to the 16th of September 2011.
The CAN bus-based modules make possible the free configuration of graphics, button and joystick modules according to customer specifications. The variable operating unit enables the integration of up to six square modules which are linked together and to the machine via plug connections.
Flexible module selection based on customer requests
The display module is available in black and white or as a programmable CoDeSys color display. In addition, the module is equipped with three freely-programmable softkey buttons and the encoder, which can optionally be attached to the side of the module, facilitates menu navigation. An additional cover protects the display from damage. The joystick module is available in two versions: one lockable, the other non-lockable and equipped with a railing. The joystick mechanics and evaluation electronics are contact-free and assembled separately. This functionality allows the joystick to be exchanged within seconds and prevents the ingress of moisture. The button module, with up to nine buttons which can be assigned to any function, offers flexible application in different construction machines. Optionally, customers can in-tegrate up to four of their own operating and display elements, implementing, for example, a key switch. Furthermore, an emer-gency stop switch with a special protective housing can be at-tached to the module.
Open for future system extensions
The robust housing and the modules, sealed with potting com-pound with a special casting technique, protect the electronic components from dust, moisture and vibration. Each module can be controlled separately with CAN-open; the modular "building block principle" makes the extension of the HMI possible at any time. Therefore the customer can react quickly when additional options are requested and individual modules can be easily exchanged. Thanks to the square form of the modules, the HMI can be assembled flexibly and applied both vertically and horizontally. The modular concept is also suited for subsequent extensions. Future modules, whose development MOBA is constantly spurring on, will be easily integrable.