System Integration & Control Systems Design


Simple, open and HTML5-based: TwinCAT HMI

February 2016 System Integration & Control Systems Design

What does the HMI solution of the future look like? How can the all-important user interface be given industry-spanning design in the future to ensure optimum efficiency and maximum user comfort? TwinCAT HMI from Beckhoff serves as the answer and a first step toward the next generation of HMI, as it integrates the Human Machine Interface directly in the familiar Visual Studio environment. Programming is not required, as the graphic editor comfortably handles configuration. As simple as the configuration is, the handling is equally adaptable: this Web-based solution, which is based on HTML5 and JavaScript, acts ‘responsively’, irrespective of the operating system, browser or device.

The powerful basic architecture facilitates numerous application scenarios: from the local panel solution to multi-client, multi-server and multi-runtime concepts. Individual extensions can quickly be implemented via defined interfaces; the mix of standard graphic controls and custom design elements enables a high degree of individualisation.

Depending on experience and application, the HMI logic can be implemented on the client side in JavaScript or as a so-called server extension. The server extension offers the possibility to write extensions in .NET or C++. A high degree of intellectual property (IP) protection can be achieved as a result.

Beckhoff offers a scalable hardware and software portfolio for flexible operator interface concepts in TwinCAT HMI and the extensive product range of control panels and Panel PCs. The new TwinCAT HMI ushers in a paradigm shift in the field of HMI software. Instead of the proprietary systems for engineering and communication and their use on certain operating systems, Beckhoff employs IT standards such as Microsoft Visual Studio for the engineering, HTML5 for the design and Websockets and HTTPS for the secure communication. The user interface can be executed on any HTML5-capable browser, irrespective of the operating system, resolution or display. Beckhoff has thus created a future-proof, open and high-performance solution for Industry 4.0 HMI concepts.

For more information contact Kenneth McPherson, Beckhoff Automation, +27 (0)11 795 2898, [email protected], www.beckhoff.co.za



Credit(s)



Share this article:
Share via emailShare via LinkedInPrint this page

Further reading:

PC-based automated production system for photo calendars
Beckhoff Automation Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
Producing up to 1800 photo calendars per hour using more than 90 servo axes, Durrer Spezialmaschinen develops a wide variety of special-purpose machines from the design phase to commissioning. A new production system for photo calendars proves the importance of comprehensive motion control expertise, with AM8000 servomotors and AX5000 servo drives from Beckhoff used for over 90 dynamically controlled axes.

Read more...
Beckhoff’s TwinCAT Vision functionality extended
Beckhoff Automation Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
The Beckhoff TwinCAT 3 Vision software portfolio offers additional image processing functions and extra options for camera integration.

Read more...
Get started with machine vision right away
Beckhoff Automation Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
The VUI2000 series from Beckhoff is being joined by four new vision units.

Read more...
TwinCAT Vision functionality extended
Beckhoff Automation IT in Manufacturing
The image processing and camera integration capabilities of Beckhoff’s TwinCAT 3 Vision software have been expanded.

Read more...
New range of vision units
Beckhoff Automation Sensors & Transducers
Beckhoff has added four new vision units to its VUI2000 series. They integrate a camera, illumination and liquid lens technology for simplified installation.

Read more...
Compact drive and control technology
Beckhoff Automation Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
When custom machine builder Lehnen Industrial Services introduced a filling machine for lip balm, the company was surprised by the amount of interest in this premium system. In order to meet this demand, they decided to standardise the machine. The necessary adaptability is provided by the scalable control technology from Beckhoff.

Read more...
The state of the SI industry remains strong and is expanding
System Integration & Control Systems Design
The system integration (SI) industry is expanding with the adoption of AI, automation and data sharing, allowing companies to improve operational efficiency and competitiveness across diverse sectors.

Read more...
Distributed servo drive system with extended voltage range and additional braking option
Beckhoff Automation Electrical Power & Protection
Beckhoff’s AMP8620 supply module and AMP8805 distribution module are now also available with an extended voltage range for the AMP8000 distributed servo drive system.

Read more...
Industrial PCs with new processor generations and increased performance
Beckhoff Automation Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
PC-based control technology from Beckhoff has always benefited from the convergence of automation and the IT world. Current examples include the use of the latest industry-standard processor generations, high-quality and demand-optimised flash memory, and the long-term availability version of Windows 11.

Read more...
New EtherCAT digital input and output terminals
Beckhoff Automation Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
The new EL14xx and EL24xx EtherCAT Terminals from Beckhoff complement the company’s existing broad portfolio in the area of digital input/output, and combine proven functions with an optimised circuit architecture.

Read more...