Emily Newton is a technology and industrial journalist. She is the Editor in Chief of Revolutionized.

Businesses are seeing revolutionary results from artificial intelligence and human machine interface technology. Digital transformation is sweeping countless industries worldwide, allowing companies of all sizes to grow and elevate their capabilities.

AI and human-machine interface (HMI) systems allow larger businesses to easily manage sprawling operations. Both technologies open the door to new opportunities for small companies. From advanced data analysis to intuitive employee interaction, the business benefits of AI and HMI are invaluable.

The Difference Between HMI and AI

Human-machine interface technology and artificial intelligence are two completely different things, although they do intersect in many applications. HMI refers to devices that allow humans to interact with machines, specifically those in manufacturing, such as operations and process controls.

Artificial intelligence is a broad term referring to advanced computer systems with a certain level of intelligence in their own right. AI is not sentient, so it cannot think for itself the way a human can. Instead, it’s programmed to use an algorithm to make logical conclusions and process data. AI often uses something called machine learning (ML) to learn from the information it handles, which improves decision-making accuracy over time.

While AI can be extremely useful to humans and businesses, it’s vital to integrate it into a larger system. This is where HMI comes in.

There are a few different types of HMI that come in various input styles. Data handling HMIs are designed for managing, collecting and analyzing information from the machines they are connected to. They are often complemented by ample screen space for displaying graphs and data charts. Pushbutton replacer HMIs are specifically designed to transfer the functions of analog pushbuttons onto a digital system, where they can be collected in one place. This type of HMI is great for streamlining the manufacturing process.

Finally, overseer HMIs are typically the most advanced. They use a computer operating system, often Windows, to display graphical data and integrate with SCADA or a manufacturing execution system (MES). Some HMIs use interactive touch displays, while others have analog input or a combination of devices.

Business Benefits of Using AI and HMI Together

AI and HMI are both valuable to businesses in their own right. HMI can modernize analog systems. Companies can use HMIs to improve communications, reduce costs, set alarms for equipment emergencies, improve plant management and even test new ideas through simulations.

The Internet of Things (IoT) makes HMI systems even more advanced and versatile. IoT enables the use of smart sensors to collect even more data on machinery and help optimize systems.

Similarly, AI is an excellent tool for automation, analytics and data processing. It can act as a central neural system for a manufacturing plant or business, adding intelligence to automated robotic cells. Manufacturing AI is often applied for quality assurance, data analysis, process optimization and even generative design, which allows it to systematically generate original engineering designs based on user criteria.

Combining the capabilities of HMI and AI leads to an intelligent, highly connected business. This technology pairing can elevate the reach and abilities of small businesses, giving them an edge beyond their smaller scale or resources.

HMI allows maximum communication with equipment core to business operations while AI collects and analyzes data in the background. This information can be used to optimize systems to reach their maximum efficiency and minimum costs. AI can even help with calculations, especially in terms of recognizing patterns.

AI and HMI technologies work particularly well together on a data handler HMI system, which collects and displays information. However, AI can add an extra layer of functionality by autonomously performing intelligent data analysis. This allows businesses to get the most out of their HMI and equipment possible through maximum optimization.

AI can accomplish similar results in plant management through pattern recognition and analysis. For example, maybe a business has some money to add or upgrade a piece of equipment. It could use AI to analyze its entire operations system and pinpoint specific pieces of equipment that have been performing poorly over time. AI can even use sensor equipment to reduce waste through intelligent, autonomous quality control.

Additionally, AI could provide insight into which areas of the business produce the most waste when analyzing units for defects. HMI gives companies a way to communicate closely with this technology, generating a collaborative human-tech work environment.

How to Choose an AI and HMI Setup

Unlocking the business benefits of AI and HMI starts with selecting the right system for a company’s specific needs. There are a few core types of HMI systems to choose from, as well as numerous ways to customize each. A good place to start may be to assess the current state of operations and equipment. Does everything use analog controls and input? Is anything automated or run by robotics? Consider what improvements would be most beneficial to the business as a whole and its employees.

For example, a company looking to reduce costs in the long term might want technology to optimize operations and reduce waste. Another business might have a goal to improve quality control, so some IoT sensors and AI would complement an HMI system well. Perhaps an organization simply wants to improve its digitization, making a pushbutton replacer HMI an ideal choice. Every company has different needs and goals, and various systems will be better suited for some than others.

Unlocking the Business Benefits of AI for Business

Technology can give businesses of all sizes an edge today. Companies can benefit from AI and HMI in numerous ways, whether they are working to get the most out of limited resources or optimize a large enterprise. It all starts with thorough research into cutting-edge technologies and an analysis of a company’s goals. AI and HMI can make things run smoother and smarter with teams that are closely connected to the technology they work with.