What is an HMI?

HMI, or Human Machine Interface, is the user interface of a machine that provides a graphics-based visualization of the controls and system monitoring on a piece of equipment.

There are a lot of terms used in our industry for HMI products including membrane switches, keypads, rubber keypads, keyboards, and control panels for example.

Traditionally membrane switches, rubber keypads, and touchscreens are examples of the part of the human machine interface which we can be seen and touched. Today, the key to developing the most reliable and effective HMI solutions involve combining not only those elements, but additional components like displays, LED’s, meters, power supplies, wire harnesses and many other complex items.

At a Glance: What is an HMI?

• Human-machine interfaces (HMIs) provide the controls, monitoring, and visualization that allow users to interact with equipment, combining technologies such as keypads, membrane switches, touchscreens, displays, and integrated electronics.
• Epec designs and manufactures custom HMI solutions for demanding industries including aerospace, medical, military, commercial, and industrial applications, with options for harsh-environment and high-reliability requirements.
• Complete user interface assemblies can integrate displays, LEDs, power supplies, wire harnesses, control panels, and other electronic components into a single engineered solution.

---

Epec incorporates and manufactures industry-specific designs for trouble-free, high reliability operation based on years of experience and our library of designs. Everything from devices with stainless steel fronts the food and beverage industry, to the highest reliability aerospace applications requiring precise ESS compliance. We have built user interface products that are required to perform particularly in harsh environments like the medical industry. For medical applications Epec can provide dust-tight and liquid protected devices in the high IP65 protection class.

Epec has an engineering focus on generating value-added HMI designs for our customers utilizing an array of industry leading technologies, giving them a powerful competitive advantage within their own markets. As a recognized expert in the design and manufacture of custom precision human machine interface (HMI) solutions we have proven track record of solving customer problems and providing state of the art technical solutions in aerospace, medical, military, commercial, and industrial applications.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick Links

• What is an HMI?
• What types of products are considered HMIs?
• What components can be integrated into a custom HMI solution?
• What industries use custom HMI solutions?
• Can HMIs be designed for harsh environments?

What is an HMI?

An HMI, or Human Machine Interface, is the user interface of a machine or device that allows users to control, monitor, and interact with equipment. HMIs provide graphics-based visualization and access to operational controls and system information.

What types of products are considered HMIs?

HMIs can include membrane switches, keypads, silicone rubber keypads, keyboards, touchscreens, control panels, displays, and other interface technologies. Modern HMI solutions often combine several of these technologies into a complete user interface assembly.

What components can be integrated into a custom HMI solution?

Custom HMIs can incorporate displays, LEDs, meters, power supplies, wire harnesses, switches, touchscreens, and other electronic and mechanical components. Combining these elements into a single assembly helps simplify integration and improve overall system performance.

What industries use custom HMI solutions?

Custom HMIs are widely used in aerospace, medical, military, commercial, and industrial applications. They are often designed to meet industry-specific requirements for reliability, environmental protection, and operator usability.

Can HMIs be designed for harsh environments?

Yes. HMIs can be engineered to operate in demanding conditions, including environments requiring protection from dust, liquids, temperature extremes, and other environmental challenges. Epec develops user interface solutions for applications where reliability and durability are critical.

---

Optimize Your Equipment's User Experience with Epec's Custom HMI Solutions

From aerospace to medical application, we engineer reliability and precision into all our manufactured products. Get a free quote today!

Request a Quote Request Design Support Request More Information