Detailed Case Study: Scalable and Cost-Effective HMI Solution for Road Construction Machines Using Tria Tecnhnologies (Tria) NXP i.MX CPU Family SMARC

Solution Overview

Tria’s i.MX CPU family SMARC modules and a standardized baseboard provide a modular, cost-efficient HMI solution that adapts across multiple machine types. By standardizing the baseboard and offering scalability through the i.MX CPU range, Tria enables flexible HMI configurations while keeping costs under control.

Cost Breakdown for SMARC-Based HMI Solution

1. i.MX SMARC CPU Module Options : The i.MX SMARC family includes a range of ARM Cortex processors (e.g., Cortex-A53, Cortex-A55), each suited for different processing needs, allowing OEMs to select the most cost-effective configuration for each type of construction machine. Entry-Level (i.MX 93): Suitable for basic data visualization and control, best for cost-sensitive applications like smaller machinery with simpler HMI needs. Approximate cost: $60 per module. Mid-Range (i.MX 8M Mini): Supports more complex HMI applications with high-resolution displays and additional connectivity, ideal for mid-tier machines. Approximate cost: $80 per module. High-Performance (i.MX 8M Plus): For advanced HMI with machine vision and AI-driven analytics, suited for high-end machinery requiring extensive data processing. Approximate cost: $95–$130 per module.
2. Standardized Baseboard: A standardized baseboard is designed to accommodate different i.MX SMARC modules, integrating core features such as power management, touchscreen display interfaces, and industrial-grade I/O. By using a standardized baseboard, the manufacturer avoids custom hardware design costs, allowing for mass production and lower per-unit cost. Approximate baseboard cost: $40, depending on I/O requirements (e.g., CAN bus, Ethernet, USB). There is as well a non recurring development cost for custom baseboard.
3. Display Options: Basic Display: 7-inch resistive touchscreen for simpler machines (e.g., compactors or rollers). Approximate cost: $30–$50. Advanced Display: 10-inch capacitive touchscreen for machines requiring more visual feedback (e.g., pavers or loaders). Approximate cost: $60–$90. Display options are selected based on machine type and user interface needs, allowing for cost control without compromising functionality.
4. Rugged Enclosure and Environmental Protection: The HMI system is housed in a rugged, IP-rated enclosure to protect against dust, vibration, and temperature extremes. This is essential for construction machinery in harsh outdoor environments. Approximate enclosure cost: $15–$30, depending on the level of environmental protection required.
5. Software Development and Licensing: Tria’s pre-configured software stack for the i.MX SMARC family supports popular operating systems (e.g., Linux, Android) and real-time operating systems (RTOS) for responsive performance. The standardized baseboard and SMARC module architecture simplify development by providing a consistent platform, reducing engineering and integration costs. Also the QT -framework was used to create best possible customer experience.

Embedded software development

Scalable Options Using the Tria i.MX SMARC CPU Family

The Tria SMARC module family, with a standardized baseboard, enables scalable HMI configurations tailored to different machine models without a complete redesign. This modular approach provides the flexibility to adjust processing power, connectivity, and display size while reusing the same HMI platform.

1. Scaling Across Machine Tiers

• Entry-Level Machines (e.g., Compact Rollers): Use the entry-level i.MX 93 module with the baseboard and a basic 7-inch resistive touchscreen display, achieving cost savings with a minimal HMI interface for basic data visualization.
• Mid-Range Machines (e.g., Pavers): Implement the mid-range i.MX 8M Mini module for enhanced graphical interface support and a larger touchscreen display (10-inch capacitive). This configuration supports additional machine parameters and operator feedback features.
• High-End Machines (e.g., Large Loaders): Integrate the high-performance i.MX 8M Plus module to support advanced features such as AI-based diagnostics or machine vision, with a high-resolution display and multi-touch capacitive touchscreen.

2. Modular Expansion Capabilities

• Connectivity Expansion: Each i.MX SMARC module can be paired with connectivity options via the baseboard (CAN bus, Ethernet, Wi-Fi). This allows for easy integration with machine diagnostics, cloud-based analytics, and remote monitoring features. For rural or isolated sites, cellular (4G/5G) modules can be added.
• Additional I/O Support: The standardized baseboard design includes optional slots for extra I/O, such as GPS for location tracking or multiple USB ports for peripheral support. This modularity provides flexibility for future upgrades.
• Battery-Powered Options: The SMARC family offers low-power configurations, allowing HMI systems to be powered by onboard batteries if required, which is advantageous for smaller, mobile machines or in temporary setup scenarios.

Total Cost Per Unit Example

For a typical mid-range road paver with the i.MX 8M Mini-based HMI configuration:

Component

Estimated Cost Per Unit

i.MX 8M Mini SMARC Module

$90

Standardized Baseboard

$60

10-inch Capacitive Display

$95

Rugged Enclosure

$40

Total Estimated Cost

$285

This cost-efficient setup allows the OEM to deliver a mid-range HMI with real-time monitoring, durability, and scalability across their equipment lineup.

Cost-Effectiveness and Benefits to the OEM

1. Lower Development and Maintenance Costs: Using the i.MX SMARC family with a standardized baseboard reduces the need for custom hardware development and simplifies integration across machinery models. The single HMI platform reduces maintenance costs, as updates, diagnostics, and expansions can be centrally managed.
2. Reduced Inventory Complexity: A modular and scalable design across models simplifies inventory and replacement part management, as most components (e.g., the baseboard, display options) are shared across product lines.
3. Future-Proof and Expandable: With a flexible baseboard, the OEM can easily add features like wireless connectivity or machine vision for future models, enabling a pathway for product upgrades without overhauling the entire HMI design.

Tria HMI solutions

Results

By adopting Tria’s i.MX SMARC CPU family and standardized baseboard, the road construction machinery manufacturer developed a scalable, cost-effective HMI solution adaptable across a variety of machinery models. This solution provided consistent, reliable performance under harsh conditions and significantly reduced both the initial development cost and ongoing maintenance expenses, resulting in a 15-20% cost savings compared to traditional HMI solutions.

Conclusion

Tria’s modular approach, leveraging the i.MX SMARC family with a standardized baseboard, delivers a scalable, rugged, and affordable HMI solution for the construction machinery market. This platform enables OEMs to reduce costs, streamline maintenance, and offer operators an intuitive, reliable interface, enhancing both operational efficiency and long-term value. One platform several solutions.