Kollmorgen introduces Kollmorgen Automation Suite™ HMI (Kollmorgen’s HMI). These rugged IP65-rated touchscreen HMI panels feature a single-surface screen with widescreen format, a rugged aluminum chassis housing, and premium configuration and screen building software as standard features. In addition, all models provide Ethernet, are quickly and easily programmed with the Kollmorgen Visualization Builder™ graphical tool, and feature display and input capabilities ideally suited for use in a wide range of packaging, food processing, and printing machinery applications. Kollmorgen’s HMI panels are also well suited for use in material forming, laboratory automation and test and measurement applications, amongst others.

“Cheaper HMI panels have an embedded screen with a raised plastic bezel, where contaminants can collect and liquids can seep in. Kollmorgen’s HMI has a single surface screen that is easier to clean and will actually stay clean around the edges,” says Reid Hunt, Product Line Manager, Kollmorgen. “Additionally, many HMI panels use plastic housings - and although they should not be abused, the aluminum bezel and back housing on Kollmorgen’s HMI improve machine aesthetics and provide superior resistance to the accidental blows or sustained vibrations that occur in industrial environments. The result is a better looking and more reliable machine.”

Kollmorgen’s HMI uses a 16:9 format and provides up to 30% more usable screen area than previous generation models. All standard models also feature integrated Ethernet, as well as data logging and trending software. Nine different panels can all be programmed using the same premium software.

“Many vendors charge extra for configuration and screen building software, or only make it available on certain premium models. Kollmorgen Visualization Builder (KVB) is a modern programming tool used with all Kollmorgen’s HMI panels. KVB supports WPF (Windows Presentation Foundation) objects, and the objects used to build up screens are vector-based so they can be scaled and maintain clear edges for the best looking screens. We also support user-based C# scripting for the ultimate flexibility,” explains Hunt.

For OEMs already using Kollmorgen Automation Suite™ for machine control, adding HMI is much simpler with Kollmorgen panels. Variables are automatically mapped from the PLC to the HMI so programming is simplified and takes significantly less time compared with other options.