HMI

Science & Engineering abbreviation · Engineering

HMI
Stands forHuman-machine interface
CategoriesScience & Engineering

HMI stands for Human-machine interface, an engineering abbreviation.

Screen or panel through which operators monitor and control machines and processes, showing status, alarms and trends and accepting commands. HMIs range from small touch panels on a machine to large control-room displays.

Example: The HMI flashed a high-temperature alarm on the dryer and prompted the operator to acknowledge it.

Usage notes

Modern design guidelines such as ISA-101 favor gray backgrounds with color reserved for abnormal conditions, so problems stand out; poorly designed alarm displays have contributed to industrial accidents. In automotive and consumer contexts, HMI covers dashboards, touchscreens and voice controls.

More engineering abbreviations

  • GD&T – Geometric dimensioning and tolerancing
  • GMAW – Gas metal arc welding
  • GTAW – Gas tungsten arc welding
  • HAZ – Heat-affected zone
  • HAZOP – Hazard and operability study
  • HEPA – High-efficiency particulate air (filter)
  • HRC – Rockwell hardness C (scale)
  • HSS – High-speed steel
  • HVAC – Heating, ventilation and air conditioning
  • ID – Inside diameter
  • IP – Ingress protection (rating)
  • LOTO – Lockout/tagout

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