The line between operator panels and edge-computing platforms is blurring as industrial PCs (IPCs) assume dual responsibilities for real-time visualization and high-throughput data analytics. Machine builders face pressure to deliver smartphone-like user experiences at the HMI while ensuring robust physical shielding, thermal management and ingress protection for control cabinets operating in harsh, washdown environments.
This new State of Technology Report from the editors of Control Design guides controls engineers through:
the strategic role of HMI technology
the role of industrial PCs in the evolving control landscape
