Bosch Connected Industry has introduced 'HMInow', a software for creating human-machine interfaces (HMI). The solution can be used independently of the controller (PLC) used and is designed to significantly reduce the effort involved in HMI development.

HMInow is based on a library of predefined standard views and operating elements, including buttons, diagrams and axis controls. These can be inserted into a visualization via drag-and-drop. The connection to the PLC is made via OPC UA or manufacturer-specific native protocols.

The software uses pre-prepared PLC structures so that no additional programming knowledge is required. Developers can create their own templates and standard elements that can be reused for future projects. This allows HMI interfaces to be created more quickly and consistently.

Completed HMIs run completely web-based and can be used on various end devices - from stationary panels to mobile devices. The responsive design automatically adapts to different screen sizes.

All projects are saved in an open, HTML-based file format. This facilitates integration into version management systems and enables parallel processing by multiple developers. Bosch also sees this as the basis for future AI-supported functions.

Various license packages from S to XL are available to get started, which are scaled according to the number of variables and end devices. This is intended to address both small machine manufacturers and larger operators.

Results from pilot projects

According to the company, the first in-house applications with HMInow required 38% less time to create user interfaces. Three pilot customers are already using the software productively.