August 2021

THE HMI manufacturer Idec Apem has developed a device that converts tablet computers into industrial HMIs with hardwired emergency stop (e- stop) buttons and safety functions. The HT3P Safety Commander is designed to address the growing use of tablets in industrial automation settings. Traditionally, operators have had to stand at fixed control panels, or use dedicated handheld touch panels or teaching pendants. But for many applications, they need more detailed and sophisticated HMI capabilities as they move around. Developers are increasingly using tablets as visualisation and control devices because of their convenience and productivity benefits. Tablets offer high-resolution displays, powerful computational abilities, large memories, Wi-Fi networking and Bluetooth wireless connections – all at a relatively low cost. They can also be used to view drawings and manuals, to create reports, and for videoconferencing. In many cases, tablets can avoid the need to have PCs on a plant floor and offer the option of adding IIoT functions to industrial systems. They can provide more capabilities than dedicated teaching pendants, which are expensive and can be difficult to use. But, according to Idec, previous attempts to incorporate tablets into industrial automation applications have been awkward, or have compromised on safety. The company claims that its Safety Commander overcomes these challenges. The device incorporates a hold-to-run button that complies with ISO/IEC safety standards. There is a hardwired e-stop button with an LED indicator, as well as a hardwired three-position enable switch. The handheld device has adjustable grippers that accommodate tablets with diagonal sizes from 8-11 inches using a key-locking system to keep the tablet secure. A patented technology allows the tablet to be rotated to a vertical or horizontal orientation, and it can be used by right- or left-handed people. The device is IP54-protected against water splashes and dirt, and has been drop-resistance tested to 1.2m. A USB Type-C port is provided for charging the tablet. Typical uses for the tablet holder are expected to include robots, AGVs and industrial machinery. https://us.IDEC.com/ SafetyCommander TECHNOLOGY n n Device adds safety functions to tablet-based HMIs Idec says that its Safety Commander provides a practical way for operators to usemodern tablets with industrial machinery and equipment.