How can you use open-source HMI tools to reduce costs and increase flexibility in Control Engineering?

1 What are open-source HMI tools?

Open-source HMI tools are software applications that allow you to create graphical user interfaces (GUI) for interacting with control systems. Unlike proprietary HMI software, open-source HMI tools are licensed under terms that grant you the right to use, modify, and distribute the software freely. This means you can tailor the software to your specific needs, integrate it with other applications, and share your improvements with the community. The advantages of using open-source HMI tools include lower costs due to not having to pay for licenses, subscriptions, or maintenance fees; greater flexibility in customizing the software to suit your preferences, requirements, and standards; more compatibility with different platforms, protocols, and devices; and more innovation as you can access the source code, learn from other developers, and contribute to the development of the software.

2 How to choose an open-source HMI tool?

When selecting an open-source HMI tool for your project, you should take into account the type and size of your control system, the functionality and usability of the GUI, the compatibility and interoperability of the software, as well as the availability and quality of documentation and support. It's important to find a tool that can handle the complexity, scalability, and performance of your system while providing the features, aesthetics, and interactivity of your GUI. Additionally, you should make sure that it works with your hardware, software, and communication protocols. Finally, you should ensure that there are clear instructions, examples, and tutorials available as well as an active and helpful community.

3 What are some examples of open-source HMI tools?

If you're looking for some examples of open-source HMI tools, there are a few popular and widely used ones. ScadaBR is a web-based HMI tool that uses Java and MySQL to create and manage GUIs for control systems. It supports various protocols such as Modbus, OPC, DNP3, and SNMP, and has a graphical editor, a dashboard, a report generator, and a scripting engine. Inkscape is a vector graphics editor that can create and edit SVG files for scalable and interactive graphics. Additionally, PyScada is a Python-based HMI tool that uses Django and SQLite to create and run GUIs for control systems. It has a web interface, a data logger, a chart viewer, and a control panel with a modular and extensible architecture. All of these tools are available for download online.

4 How to use open-source HMI tools?

Using open-source HMI tools is not very different from using commercial HMI software. To begin, you need to define your objectives and requirements, select your hardware and software, install and configure your HMI tool, design and develop your GUI, and deploy and maintain your HMI on the target system. All of these steps are necessary to ensure that you can achieve the desired outcome with your control system and HMI.

5 What are some best practices for open-source HMI tools?

To make the most of open-source HMI tools, you should follow some best practices such as utilizing standards and conventions, keeping it simple and intuitive, optimizing performance and security, documenting and commenting your code, and learning and contributing. You should use common formats, protocols, and styles for your HMI design and development to avoid unnecessary complexity and clutter in your GUI. Additionally, you should ensure that your HMI runs smoothly and reliably while protecting your data and system from unauthorized access and manipulation. It is also important to write clear and concise documentation and comments for your HMI code and share it with others. Finally, take advantage of the resources provided to learn new skills, solve problems, and improve the software.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?