HMI Integration: Connection and Programming for Robust Control
Registration is closed. Our next program is expected in Winter 2026. Custom group workshops are available - email Dr. Jacob Rice (jacob.rice@marquette.edu) to learn more.
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Two-day, in-person, hands-on experience using an industrial Human-Machine Interface (HMI) connected to a physical manufacturing training system
Hosted by the Opus College of Engineering's Flexible Assembly Systems Network (FASN) Advanced Manufacturing Center
Looking to develop a new skill set and confidence in designing robust, intuitive, high-performing human-machine-interfaces (HMIs)? HMI Integration: Connection and Programming for Robust Control will guide engineering and manufacturing professionals through concepts, methodologies, and workflows for creating high-performance HMIs that provide robust, intuitive controls for machine operation and provide helpful feedback regarding the machine and job status.
Participants will:
- Learn fundamental concepts related to digital communication, supervisory control, and interface usability.
- Apply concepts to a physical manufacturing training system.
- Exercise system-thinking to implement seamless supervisory control.
Each participant will apply presented concepts to an industrial-grade HMI connected to a PLC-controlled manufacturing training system dedicated for their use. Upon completion, participants will be able to set up and establish communication between a PLC and HMI, program HMI applications, and implement required logic on a PLC to provide robust, intuitive status and control of machine operation.
Topics:
Overview HMI and PLC
Participants will learn about the functions and roles of HMIs, different HMI products, and how to select an HMI. An overview/review of PLC programming topics is provided for understanding the controller鈥檚 relationship to the supervisory control interface provided by the HMI.
Activity: Connect to and operate the provided PLC-controlled manufacturing training system.
Communication Setup
Participants will learn about communication protocols, static IP network setup, and a common approach for sharing data between the PLC and HMI.
Activity: Configure the static IP network (3 nodes: laptop, PLC, and HMI) and configure the data shared between the PLC and the HMI.
HMI Single-Bit Objects
Participants will learn how to create robust HMI interfaces consisting of single-bit objects such as buttons, lamps, etc. Participants will learn how to select HMI object attributes and add logic to a PLC program for providing robust supervisory control of a discrete manufacturing system. Participants will learn how to manage and resolve potential conflict arising from multiple sources of control.
Activity: Create an HMI interface for manual-mode controls of the training system.
HMI Multi-Bit Objects
Participants will learn about IEC 61131-3 data types and considerations (e.g., valid ranges) for robust handling of multi-bit data between the PLC and HMI.
Activities: Demonstrate different multi-bit HMI objects that provide effective feedback. Demonstrate data manipulation on the PLC and on the HMI.
HMI Navigation
Participants will learn how to use different HMI window navigation features (window switching, embedded windows, and pop-up windows).
Activity: Create an HMI application featuring the different navigation methodologies.
High-Performance HMI
Participants will learn high-performance HMI design principles consistent with ISA-101 (International Society of Automation standard for Enhancing Human-Machine Interface Design for Safer, Smarter Automation).
Activity: Create a high-performance HMI application for the training system.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How do I register?
Registration is now closed.
Once submitted, we will review registration details before sharing payment details via email. This process is designed to ensure individuals who are not a fit or may struggle in the program can be contacted directly before submitting payment.
Who is this workshop designed for?
This workshop is designed for engineering and manufacturing professionals interested in developing a new skill set and confidence in designing robust, intuitive, high-performing human-machine-interfaces (HMIs)
The activities are designed to push participants, but content will be accessible to engineering and technical professionals. If you have any questions about the experience or course, please email us here.
Is there any prerequisite experience?
Participants must be comfortable using a computer running a windows operating system.
The content will be most accessible to professionals with an engineering degree or a technical degree in mechanical, electrical or computer fields. If you have any questions about the experience or if you are a fit, please email us here.
What is the investment in the program?
The registration cost is $2,000 for one participant in the two-day experience. This registration includes parking, lunches, refreshments, and access to learning hardware and software.
Where is this hosted?
On 不良研究所's campus in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The precise meeting location will be shared following registration. Parking will be available.
Is technology provided? Do I need to bring anything?
All of the technology and learning tools will be provided by 不良研究所, including a laptop. Participants are welcome to bring their own notebooks or devices for additional notes.
Questions? Contact Dr. Jacob Rice (jacob.rice@marquette.edu)
