Industrial Displays in Factory Automation: Ushering in a New Future of Smart Manufacturing

In today’s rapidly developing industrial sector, automation technology has become a key means to improve production efficiency, reduce costs, and minimize human error. Industrial displays, as a crucial component of automation systems, play a vital role. They are not only the interface for operators to interact with equipment but also the “eyes” and “commanders” of the entire production process. This article will delve into the role of industrial displays in factory automation, key selection considerations, and answers to frequently asked questions, helping you better understand and apply this key technology.

The Key Role of Industrial Displays in Factory Automation

Real-time Data Monitoring and Display: Industrial automation systems require the real-time collection and display of large amounts of data to help operators understand equipment status, production progress, and product quality. Compared to traditional displays, industrial displays are specifically designed for industrial environments, possessing stronger protective capabilities and able to withstand harsh conditions such as high temperatures, high humidity, and dust.

Improved Operational Efficiency and Simplified Human-Machine Interaction: In industrial automation, workers need to interact frequently with equipment. Industrial displays, with their intuitive touch interfaces, greatly facilitate human-machine operation. Compared to traditional button operations, touchscreen displays allow for various operations and adjustments through simple swipes and clicks, reducing operation time and improving production efficiency. Many industrial display brands are equipped with high-resolution and large-size touchscreens, enabling workers to view and adjust parameters in real time, reducing human error.

Improved System Stability and Anti-interference Capabilities: In complex industrial environments, equipment is often affected by electromagnetic interference, vibration, and temperature fluctuations, which can lead to display and control system malfunctions. Industrial displays are designed with these factors in mind, employing anti-interference and anti-vibration technologies to ensure stable operation in various environments.

Providing Remote Monitoring and Intelligent Management: With the advancement of Industry 4.0, remote monitoring and intelligent management have become important directions in modern production management. Industrial displays not only provide an interface for on-site operation but can also be networked with other automated equipment, supporting remote operation and monitoring functions. Through the internet or local area network, managers can view production line status, equipment operation, and even remotely control equipment from anywhere via computer or mobile phone.

Industrial Display Selection Guide

Size and Resolution

Small Size (4.3″-7″): Suitable for stand-alone equipment with limited information and few control points, such as small packaging machines and testing stations.

Medium Size (8″-12″): The most common size, suitable for most production line equipment, clearly displaying equipment layout, process flow diagrams, real-time trends, and alarm information.

Large Size (15″-21″) and above: Typically used in central monitoring rooms, displaying the entire workshop or factory’s SCADA screen, requiring simultaneous monitoring of large amounts of data.

Touch Technology

Resistive Touchscreen: Traditional, low-cost, operable with any object (including gloved hands or styluses). Disadvantages include slightly lower light transmittance and limited multi-touch support.

Capacitive Touchscreen: High light transmittance, superior display quality, supports sensitive multi-touch. However, it must be operated with a finger or a special capacitive stylus and cannot be used with ordinary gloves.

Environmental Adaptability

Temperature and Humidity: The display screen must be able to withstand a wide temperature range of -20℃ to 70℃, and humidity must be controlled between 5% and 95% RH (non-condensing).

Dust and Water Resistance: IP65 protection is standard for industrial environments, preventing dust intrusion and low-pressure water jets.

Vibration and Shock Resistance: Must pass rigorous vibration and shock tests to ensure long-term stable operation in workshops with frequent equipment vibration.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the difference between industrial displays and ordinary displays?

Industrial displays are designed specifically for industrial environments, possessing stronger protective performance and capable of withstanding harsh conditions such as high temperature, high humidity, dust, and vibration. In addition, industrial displays have higher stability and anti-interference capabilities, supporting remote monitoring and intelligent management.

How to choose the appropriate industrial display size?

When choosing a display size, it is necessary to consider the application scenario and display requirements. Small-sized displays are suitable for stand-alone equipment, medium-sized displays are suitable for most production line equipment, and large-sized displays are suitable for central monitoring rooms.

How to choose the touch technology for an industrial display?

If the operating environment allows for operation with gloves or requires the use of a stylus, a resistive touchscreen is a better choice; if sensitive multi-touch and high light transmittance are required, a capacitive touchscreen is more suitable.

What is the typical lifespan of an industrial monitor?

Industrial monitors typically have a long lifespan, reaching 5-10 years. However, the specific lifespan depends on the operating environment, maintenance, and equipment quality.

Conclusion

Industrial monitors play a crucial role in factory automation. They not only improve the display and monitoring capabilities of real-time data but also enhance operational efficiency, strengthen system stability, and support remote management and intelligent control. Choosing the right industrial monitor can significantly improve production efficiency, reduce maintenance costs, and provide a solid human-machine interaction foundation for intelligent manufacturing. For industrial monitor solutions, please contact LEEHON.