NL4000000B1 - Human-Machine Interface for an industrial packaging device - Google Patents

Abstract

In a first aspect there is provided a computer-implemented method for operating a human-machine interface of an industrial packaging device, said method comprising: receiving operator input to initiate a maintenance or operational adjustment procedure; displaying, on a display interface, a predefined sequence of illustrations, each illustration representing a step in the procedure for interacting with a specific component of the packaging device; dynamically adjusting the displayed sequence of illustrations based on the operator’s progression through the procedure, wherein the adjustments are configured to present the illustration corresponding to the current step and to modify subsequent illustrations based on prior operator inputs; and presenting a feedback prompt on the display interface for each step, requiring operator confirmation of task completion before advancing to the next illustration in the sequence; wherein the dynamic adjustment of the illustrations is operable to update the sequence and presentation of illustrations in response to the operator’s inputs.

Description

Title: Human-Machine Interface for an industrial packaging device

Description: TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention generally relates to the field of industrial automation and control systems, and more particularly to the field of human-machine interfaces (HMIs) for enhancing usability and operational efficiency in industrial packaging devices.

BACKGROUND

In the field of industrial automation, human-machine interfaces (HMIs) are essential components that enable operators to interact with complex machinery, such as packaging devices. These devices often consist of numerous components and modules that incorporate sensors, control systems, and data inputs and outputs. The

HMI serves as the bridge between the operator and the machine, allowing the operator to monitor the device's status, control various parameters, and perform essential maintenance tasks. However, as industrial machinery has become more advanced, the complexity of HMIs has increased significantly, presenting new challenges for effective machine operation, especially for operators with limited technical expertise.

Current HMis for industrial packaging devices are often complex and feature a vast amount of data and controls. The typical interface includes a touchscreen display or similar device, where operators receive data on machine status, production settings, maintenance requirements, and fault diagnostics. This extensive data output, combined with a broad array of configuration options, can overwhelm operators, making it difficult to locate relevant information quickly or navigate the necessary steps to adjust machine settings. The high complexity of current HMIs generally requires that operators undergo extensive training to ensure they can manage the system effectively, and even then, operation often requires specialized skills that can be hard to source in today’s labor market.

A significant disadvantage of these complex interfaces is that they can increase the likelihood of operational errors. When operators are required to handle multiple parameters and navigate through detailed menus, it raises the potential for mistakes, such as setting incorrect parameters or overlooking maintenance requirements. These errors can disrupt production efficiency, lead to machine downtime, and potentially even damage machine components, all of which are costly in terms of both time and resources. Additionally, troubleshooting machine issues using current HMls can be time-consuming, as operators must often sift through large amounts of technical data to diagnose faults and apply corrective actions.

Moreover, current HMis are often designed with limited flexibility for presenting information based on the machine's operational context. The interface typically does not adapt dynamically to display only the relevant data or to guide operators through specific tasks. Instead, operators must manually navigate through static menus to access information, which increases cognitive load and slows down response times, particularly during maintenance or operational adjustments. This lack of adaptability makes it challenging to streamline operations and adjust to varying production needs in an efficient manner. lt is therefore a goal of the present invention to provide an improved human-machine interface for industrial packaging devices, one that simplifies interaction for operators while maintaining full functionality, thereby overcoming the above-mentioned disadvantages of the prior art at least in part.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

One aspect of the present invention relates to a computer-implemented method for operating a human-machine interface of an industrial packaging device.

Another aspect of the present invention relates to an apparatus for operating such a human-machine interface of an industrial packaging device.

Yet another aspect of the present invention relates to a computer program product and yet another aspect to a computer readable storage medium and a data carrier.

In a first aspect there is provided a computer-implemented method for operating a human-machine interface of an industrial packaging device, said method comprising: receiving operator input to initiate a maintenance or operational adjustment procedure; displaying, on a display interface, a predefined sequence of illustrations, each illustration representing a step in the procedure for interacting with a specific component of the packaging device; dynamically adjusting the displayed sequence of illustrations based on the operators progression through the procedure, wherein the adjustments are configured to present the illustration corresponding to the current step and to modify subsequent illustrations based on prior operator inputs; and presenting a feedback prompt on the display interface for each step, requiring operator confirmation of task completion before advancing to the next illustration in the sequence; wherein the dynamic adjustment of the illustrations is operable to update the sequence and presentation of illustrations in response to the operator's inputs.

In another aspect there is provided an apparatus for operating a human- machine interface of an industrial packaging device, the apparatus comprising: - a display interface; - an input unit configured to receive operator input; and - a control unit configured to carry out the method of the first aspect of the present invention. in yet another aspect there is provided a computer-readable storage medium comprising instructions which, when executed by a processing unit of an industrial packaging device, cause the processing unit to carry out the steps of the method of the first aspect of the present invention.

In yet another aspect there is provided a data carrier containing program code instructions which, when loaded into a processing unit of an industrial packaging device, cause the processing unit to carry out the steps of the method of the first aspect of the present invention.

A computer-implemented method may be understood as a series of steps executed by a computer system to achieve a specified result. In this case, the method enables an operator to interact with a packaging device through an interface designed to facilitate various maintenance and operational adjustment tasks.

The method comprises receiving operator input to initiate a maintenance or operational adjustment procedure. In this arrangement, operator input refers to any form of data entry from the operator that signals the start of a specified task. This input may be achieved through interaction with a touchscreen, button, or similar device interface. An effect of receiving operator input in this structured manner is that the method ensures task initiation only when an operator is ready, minimizing the risk of unintentional adjustments and aligning task sequences according to real-time operator actions. This structured initiation allows the system to use processing power more efficiently by aligning the system’s operational focus with the operator's current needs.

The method further comprises displaying, on a display interface, a predefined sequence of illustrations, each illustration representing a step in the procedure for interacting with a specific component of the packaging device. A display interface is understood as any screen or graphical output device that visually communicates information to the operator. In this arrangement, a predefined sequence of illustrations provides a visual guide, where each illustration corresponds to an actionable step in a given maintenance or adjustment procedure. By presenting this sequence in a structured, step-by-step format, the system reduces the cognitive load on the operator, enabling less-skilled personnel to perform complex tasks accurately.

This arrangement also optimizes storage capacity by focusing the display on only the relevant illustrations for each procedure, thus avoiding unnecessary data display and storage usage.

The method additionally includes dynamically adjusting the displayed sequence of illustrations based on the operator's progression through the procedure, wherein the adjustments are configured to present the illustration corresponding to the current step and to modify subsequent illustrations based on prior operator inputs. In this arrangement, dynamically adjusting refers to real-time updates to the sequence and content of the illustrations as the operator progresses. This allows the method to adapt to the operator's current position within the procedure, ensuring that only contextually relevant illustrations are presented. An effect of this arrangement is the reduction of redundant data processing and display, which conserves processing power by avoiding irrelevant illustrations and allows the system to adapt responsively to the operator's unique pace and inputs. By alighing each illustration with the actual task at hand, the system also increases accuracy in task execution. 5 The method further comprises presenting a feedback prompt on the display interface for each step, requiring operator confirmation of task completion before advancing to the next illustration in the sequence. A feedback prompt may be understood as a visual or interactive request for confirmation that verifies the operator's completion of the current task. This arrangement ensures that each step is acknowledged by the operator before proceeding, reducing the likelihood of incomplete or skipped steps, which could otherwise lead to operational inconsistencies or machine errors. The confirmation requirement prevents premature advancement in the sequence, enhancing task reliability and contributing to efficient system operation by confirming task completion at each stage.

Finally, the method includes dynamically adjusting the illustrations to update the sequence and presentation of illustrations in response to the operator's inputs. This arrangement of updating the illustrations allows for a responsive interaction between the operator and the system, where each input dynamically informs the next illustration. An effect of this arrangement is a streamlined workflow that aligns with the operator's pace and inputs, providing continuous guidance while minimizing unnecessary processing demands. This approach optimizes system resources by adjusting illustrations based on real-time user actions, thus conserving processing power and improving the efficiency of the operator's interaction with the packaging device.

This method provides a structured approach to simplifying operator interaction with complex industrial machinery by leveraging real-time, context- sensitive adjustments within the human-machine interface. By dynamically adapting the sequence and presentation of illustrations based on the operator's inputs, the system allows each step to be contextually aligned with the operator's actions, ensuring that guidance remains relevant at every point in the procedure. Such responsiveness addresses the challenges of current interfaces that overwhelm operators with static, one-size-fits-all displays, reducing cognitive load and minimizing potential errors.

This method's configuration ensures that only task-specific information is displayed, making efficient use of processing resources by avoiding redundant data display and focusing computational power on active steps in the sequence. The use of adaptive illustrations and feedback prompts not only streamlines task execution but also enables the system to accommodate operators with varying skill levels, thus enhancing usability without compromising the device’s functionality. By structuring the guidance in a sequential, dynamically updated manner, the invention integrates task- specific adjustments that go beyond conventional fixed-interface models, offering a robust, real-time support system directly embedded within the operational context of the industrial machine. This alignment of each procedural step with responsive adjustments provides a substantial advancement in facilitating complex tasks, achieving a balance between operational efficiency and user accessibility that traditional static HMiIs have not been able to attain.

In an example, the method includes a display interface with a main menu comprising selectable representations for accessing different operational modes of the packaging device, each representation corresponding to a distinct function related to device operation, maintenance, or configuration. It may be provided that a main menu with selectable representations allows the operator to quickly navigate to the relevant section of the interface based on their current task, which reduces time spent searching for controls and minimizes the risk of incorrect selection. This feature streamlines the operator's workflow, allowing faster transitions between functions and contributing to the efficient use of processing resources by activating only the selected mode’s functions.

In an example, the method further includes an operational mode for displaying the current device status comprising illustrations that integrate sensor data and system metrics, configured {o display real-time operational conditions and selectable options for further diagnostic information. it may be provided that real-time operational conditions are displayed alongside integrated sensor data, presenting the operator with an accurate and immediate picture of the device's status. This feature allows for quick assessment of operational parameters, enabling the operator to respond proactively to changes. By limiting data to sensor-based metrics, this approach optimizes bandwidth and processing resources, focusing only on relevant, real-time information.

In an example, the method includes illustrations for guiding production planning that dynamically adjust based on the operational schedule, the current task sequence, and operator inputs, providing an interactive overview of the planned operations and allowing for modification of parameters associated with the ongoing production sequence. It may be provided that dynamically adjusting illustrations ensure that the display reflects the current operational phase and adapts to the operator's inputs, helping to maintain continuity in production while providing flexibility for adjustments. This feature minimizes disruptions in planning, as it aligns system operations with real-time changes, enhancing the efficiency of data usage and processing by focusing on only active sequences.

In an example, the method includes an indicator system within the display interface, operable to signal the status of machine components through visual cues associated with predefined maintenance states, each cue providing an indication of the need for inspection, adjustment, or replacement of specific components. it may be provided that visual cues for maintenance states allow operators to identify components requiring attention without extensive diagnostics, thereby reducing downtime. By displaying only essential maintenance indicators, this feature economizes system processing and storage, while ensuring that operators focus on critical tasks.

In an example, the includes an indicator system with color-coded representations corresponding to different maintenance priorities, operable to alert the operator based on the urgency of each maintenance task required to maintain device functionality. It may be provided that color-coded maintenance priorities simplify task prioritization, allowing operators to address more urgent needs first. This feature reduces the cognitive load on the operator by providing an intuitive visual hierarchy, improving the efficiency of maintenance scheduling and resource allocation.

In an example, the method includes illustrations associated with maintenance procedures configured to guide the operator interactively through a predefined sequence of maintenance actions, each illustration structured to depict spatial relationships of machine components relevant to the current step in the procedure. {t may be provided that spatially-oriented illustrations assist operators in identifying the correct machine components and understanding how to interact with them, reducing the risk of error. By structuring each step, this feature enables efficient use of display resources by focusing only on the relevant component at each stage, which is essential for reducing missteps and improving operational flow.

In an example, the method includes each illustration in the sequence dynamically adjusted to reflect operator input and system status, wherein subsequent illustrations are modified based on the completion of prior tasks to provide a streamlined sequence of interactive instructions. It may be provided that dynamically adjusted illustrations support an uninterrupted task sequence by updating based on actual task completion, which helps to maintain an optimized workflow. This feature minimizes redundant processing by avoiding the presentation of unnecessary steps and contributes to resource efficiency by aligning system activity with the operator's progress.

In an example, the method includes a display interface with a control setting view configured for fine-tuning device parameters, each control setting presented with an adjustable input element operable to visually update the corresponding illustration to reflect changes in operational parameters. It may be provided that visually updating control settings enables operators to immediately see the effect of their adjustments, which reduces the time needed for trial and error. This feature reduces resource use by reflecting only relevant parameter changes on- screen, making fine-tuning a more efficient process.

In an example, the method includes illustrations configured to display only the subset of system data that corresponds to the current operational state of the device, selectively filtering out non-essential data to enhance focus on task-relevant information. It may be provided that selective data display minimizes distractions, helping operators focus on active tasks without the burden of extraneous information.

This feature conserves processing power by dynamically filtering data, displaying only information pertinent to the current state, which optimizes data handling.

In an example, the method includes an interface configuration restricted to predefined user inputs associated with the selected operational mode, thereby reducing the operator’s interaction options to functions relevant to the present task sequence. It may be provided that restricting input options minimizes the risk of unintended commands, as operators are presented only with task-specific controls.

This feature limits system activity to relevant functions, promoting efficient use of resources and focusing computational power on task-specific operations.

In an example, the method includes a configuration mode accessible by a system administrator, enabling adjustments to the structure and sequence of illustrations based on anticipated device usage patterns or routine maintenance requirements. It may be provided that an administrator-configurable mode allows for fine-tuning of the interface to align with specific operational needs, enabling flexible control over task sequences. This feature optimizes the system's adaptability by allowing administrators to customize operational guidance according to real-world requirements. {In an example, the method includes a display interface with a mode for toggling between real-time operational data and simplified task-focused views, each mode selectable based on the operational needs of the operator. It may be provided that this toggle feature enables the operator to switch between comprehensive and task-focused views, ensuring appropriate information density depending on the situation. This feature reduces unnecessary data processing by adapting the display mode, which conserves bandwidth and focuses resources on active tasks.

In an example, the method includes a sequence of illustrations supporting documentation of operator actions during each procedure, configured to record the sequence of steps taken and generate a log associated with each maintenance or operational adjustment procedure. It may be provided that recorded documentation of operator actions creates an accessible history of tasks, which aids in diagnostics and quality control. This feature streamlines information storage by maintaining a structured log for future reference, minimizing redundant record-keeping and improving system traceability.

In an example, the method includes illustrations that dynamically adapt to reflect the system configuration based on operator inputs, such that the illustrations presented on the display interface adjust in response to changes in device setup, operational parameters, or task completion status. It may be provided that adaptable illustrations allow for real-time representation of system changes, which keeps the operator accurately informed of the machine's current configuration. This feature ensures efficient resource use by updating only relevant visual elements, which enhances real-time control and effective task management.

In an example, the method comprises dynamically prioritizing maintenance tasks on the display interface, wherein the prioritization is based on real-

time sensor data indicating operational conditions of the packaging device. It may be provided that dynamically prioritizing maintenance tasks enables the interface to present the operator with the most time-sensitive or critical tasks first. This feature ensures that tasks requiring immediate attention are brought to the operator's focus, reducing the risk of neglecting important actions. An effect is the improved allocation of processing resources, as the system focuses on monitoring and processing only the most relevant maintenance indicators. By continuously analyzing sensor data and updating task prioritization in real-time, the system enhances operational reliability and minimizes downtime. The prioritization logic also reduces cognitive load for the operator by narrowing down the information presented to what is contextually relevant at any given moment.

In an example, the method includes filtering system data to display only task-relevant information during maintenance or operational procedures, wherein non- essential data is dynamically excluded based on the current operational state. It may be provided that filtering system data reduces the volume of unnecessary information presented to the operator, allowing for a more streamiined and intuitive interface. This feature achieves an effect of better use of processing power, as the system avoids rendering irrelevant data on the display interface. By focusing processing resources on critical data streams, the system optimizes bandwidth and improves response times for task execution. The selective presentation of information enhances operator focus, ensuring that they can perform procedures efficiently and with fewer errors. The technical effect is particularly advantageous in environments with complex data flows, where distractions from irrelevant data could compromise operational efficiency.

In an example, the method comprises integrating multi-modal feedback prompts into the display interface, wherein the feedback includes a combination of visual, auditory, and haptic signals to confirm task progression and completion. It may be provided that multi-modal feedback prompts create a more immersive and reliable interaction between the operator and the machine. This feature enables a robust mechanism for confirming actions, as operators receive redundant cues through different sensory channels, minimizing the likelihood of misinterpretation or oversight.

An effect is the enhanced accessibility of the system, as operators with varying sensory capabilities can still interact effectively with the interface. The use of haptic feedback in particular reduces reliance on visual attention, allowing operators to focus on physical tasks while receiving clear, tactile confirmations from the system.

In an example, the method includes dynamically adjusting the layout and sequence of interactive instructions on the display interface based on the operator's input, wherein the system realigns subsequent instructions to reflect task progress or deviations from expected procedures. It may be provided that dynamically adjusting instructions ensures that the operator remains guided along an optimized workflow, even in cases where deviations or interruptions occur. This feature conserves processing power by recalculating and presenting only the updated instructions necessary for the next step, avoiding unnecessary recalculations of the entire workflow. The adaptability of the sequence allows the interface to accommodate real- time variability in operator performance or machine conditions, resulting in a system that is both efficient and flexible.

In an example, the method comprises implementing an interactive simulation mode accessible through the display interface, wherein the simulation allows operators to practice procedures without impacting the actual machine operations. It may be provided that an interactive simulation mode provides operators with a safe and effective way to familiarize themselves with complex maintenance or operational tasks. This feature reduces the need for extensive on-site training, as operators can gain practical experience through a virtual environment. An effect is the improved efficiency of training programs, as the simulation mode eliminates risks associated with live practice on sensitive equipment. Additionally, the system can use the simulation mode to evaluate operator performance, providing real-time feedback that further enhances skill development. This feature uses processing resources efficiently by allocating them to simulate realistic operational scenarios without interfering with the actual device’s functionality.

The above-mentioned and other features and advantages of the invention are illustrated in the following description with reference to the enclosed drawings which are provided by way of illustration only and which are not limitative to the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Fig. 1-11 show different user interfaces of a human-machine interface of an industrial packaging device steps in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure;

Fig. 12 shows the steps of a method for in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Figure 1 illustrated an example of a human machine interface 1 of an industrial packaging device or similar device. The interface 1 is a graphical user interface, A graphical user interface (GUI), in the context of the present disclosure, can be defined as a system for facilitating interaction between a user and a computing device, comprising one or more visual elements displayed on a screen or other visual output medium. These visual elements include graphical representations of functions, data, or control mechanisms that can be manipulated by the user via input devices such as a touchscreen, mouse, keyboard, or other input modalities. The graphical user interface is configured to dynamically adapt and respond to user interactions, operational conditions, or contextual parameters to present information, enable user commands, and execute corresponding computational functions. The interface may include, but is not limited to, menus, buttons, icons, sliders, text fields, and other graphical or textual elements organized in a layout designed to enhance usability and accessibility.

In this example the user interface displays five elements which represent functions which are selectable by the operator. In this example, element 2 may be a status screen or menu element such as the status of the machine. This information may be displayed in a next screen and may comprise information such as the time left for certain parts of the machine (the industrial packaging device), until it has to be replaced, but may also relate to certain logging information or diagnostics. The status display may also indicate the overall status of the machine, i.e. running, service required, error or off.

Other elements such as elements 3, 4, 5 and 6 may relate to configuration of the machine or tuning, performing certain (maintenance) steps or operational information such as the information relating to the production and planning.

One of the elements may be used to provide a menu for further options.

In Fig. 2 a representation is shown of a way of presenting information to the operator which information may relate to the operational status of the machine.

The information may relate to the products that are produces per time unit for example.

It can be seen that the graphical element shows a cross which can be selected to return to the main menu, shown in figure 1. Also, there is a checkbox approval mark in the bottom section which is an indication that the machine or at least the section relating to this part of the menu, is operating as it should and that there are no errors or warnings or such.

Fig. 3 shows a variant of the main menu with the five elements 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 similar to figure 1, but now with an indication mark 11 in the top right corner of the first graphical element 2. This indicates that there is a warning or information which is to be read by the operator.

Such graphical information elements such as triangles 11, squares, or other geometric shapes may be incorporated into the human-machine interface 1 to visually indicate the status of specific parts of a menu or operational process. These shapes may appear as overlays or integrated into the visual elements of the interface, such as at the top-right corner of a graphical element 1. The shape, color, and positioning of these elements serve as intuitive indicators of the state or importance of the corresponding menu or process. For example, a triangle in the top-right corner may indicate a "warning" status, while a square in a different color may signify a "debug" mode or “information” message. The color-coding and shape differentiation correspond to standard log levels in computer systems, such as “info,” "warning," "error," or “debug,” thereby leveraging familiar visual conventions to enhance operator understanding. Hence, a stop-sign shaped, red colored indicator may correspond to a high important, error level information message, which the operator will directly understand and interpret correctly.

The integration of such graphical elements into the predefined sequence of illustrations displayed during operating the device provides critical feedback to the operator. For instance, during a maintenance procedure, an illustration depicting a machine component may feature a triangle to indicate a warning about a specific parameter, such as elevated temperature or wear. This immediate visual cue enables the operator to quickly identify areas requiring attention without having to parse detailed textual information. By dynamically adjusting these graphical indicators based on real-time system data or operator inputs, the interface aligns its presentation with the current operational context, thereby improving usability and reducing the cognitive load on the operator.

The feedback functionality of these graphical elements further enhances the operator's interaction with the system. For example, if a task in the predefined sequence requires the operator to adjust a setting or inspect a component, the corresponding graphical element may change dynamically to provide feedback. A warning triangle might turn into a green checkmark as shown in the interface 20 in fig. 2, once the task is completed successfully, signaling the operator to proceed confidently to the next step. The triangle may also turn into a exclamation mark as shown in relation to the information 12 presented in the interface 2 shown in figure4.

This real-time feedback ensures that the operator is continuously informed about the status of the system and their progress through the procedure.

This use of graphical elements aligns with the dynamic adjustment of illustrations, ensuring that the interface remains responsive and informative. The dynamic adjustment of these elements, based on operator progression or system feedback, optimizes the communication of critical information. This reduces the likelihood of errors, enhances operational efficiency, and ensures that operators of varying skill levels can successfully interact with the human-machine interface of the industrial packaging device. By integrating these graphical indicators, the invention provides a robust, intuitive, and adaptive solution for managing complex industrial processes.

In fig. 5 a reel is shown as a sub menu of the main menu shown in fig. 1. For the reel 13 corresponding information 14 may be presented below the image.

The combination of text 14 and image 13 will provide the operator with a fast and responsive way of presenting the relevant information to ensure that the operator can exactly interpret the information directly without having a high level of training as the information presented is very intuitive. In the interface 12 shown in fig. 5 there is warning level information related to the reel as the triangle 11 indicates.

As in fig. 5 the operator is informed that the reel needs attention, the operator is guided through process steps in the menu in an interactive manner which is for example shown in fig. 6 wherein the interface 14 shows two graphical elements 15, and 16, for which the operators attention is directed to the one with the element 11 on the top right corner which is illustrative for a warning.

When the operator selects the element he or she is guided to the next steps in the process, illustrated in fig. 7 wherein the operator is informed in this interface 15 that the process contains three steps, 17, 18, 19.

Fig. 8 shows the first step 17, which provides visual and may comprise textual information to the operator to indicate which part of the machine requires his or her attention, in this example a reel.

Fig. 9 shows the next step 18, to focus on certain details of that element of the machine, i.e. a certain part of the reel. This way the operator knows what to focus on in the machine, without having to have a high level of understanding of the machine and/or its human-machine interface 18.

Fig. 10 shows a further step 19 in which the operator is guided what to do. In this example to cut a section from the reel.

Fig. 11 provides The operator with an updated status of the element of the machine, i.e. the reel, and with the checkmark indicates that the process has been completed successfully.

Hence, this way the human-machine interface may be implemented into a computer implemented method, by which interface an industrial packaging device or similar complex industrial device may be operated. The method implements an interface wherein the operator input can be received which initiates a maintenance or operational adjustment procedure as shown in the figures. The interface displays a predefined sequence of illustrations as for example shown in figures 9, 10 and 11, each illustration representing a step in the procedure for interacting with a specific component of the packaging device. The sequence of illustrations is, as shown and illustrated, dynamically adjusted based on the operator's progression through the procedure, wherein the adjustments are configured to present the illustration corresponding to the current step and to modify subsequent illustrations based on prior operator inputs. Each step may present a feedback prompt on the display interface, requiring operator confirmation of task completion before advancing to the next illustration in the sequence, and the dynamic adjustment of the illustrations is operable to update the sequence and presentation of illustrations in response to the operator's inputs.

Figure 12 illustrates an exemplary implementation of the method 200 for operating a human-machine interface of an industrial packaging device. The figure provides a high-level overview of the sequence of steps that enable an operator to interact with the interface efficiently and intuitively during maintenance or operational adjustment procedures. Each step of the method is represented with a corresponding technical feature designed to enhance usability and optimize operational workflows.

The first step, receiving operator input 210, is depicted as the initial interaction between the operator and the interface. This step includes an input unit such as a touchscreen, a physical keypad, or voice recognition system, enabling the operator to signal the commencement of a specific task. In one embodiment, the input unit could consist of a ruggedized touchscreen suitable for industrial environments, designed to resist dust and moisture while providing a responsive interface. In another embodiment, the operator could use physical buttons arranged in a simplified layout, reducing the risk of accidental inputs in high-vibration settings.

The second step, displaying a predefined sequence of illustrations 220, shows how the system visually guides the operator through the procedure. A display interface, such as a high-resolution graphical user interface, presents each step of the task as an illustration. For example, the display may show a diagram of the specific component being adjusted, highlighting relevant parts with arrows or labels. In some cases, the illustrations might include animations to provide more detailed guidance, such as the correct orientation for inserting a replacement part or the direction of movement for a lever. The illustrations are contextually adapted to ensure clarity, even for operators with minimal technical expertise.

The third step, dynamically adjusting the displayed sequence of illustrations 230, demonstrates the method’s adaptability. As the operator progresses through the procedure, the system updates the illustrations in real time based on operator inputs. For instance, if an operator completes a step and confirms the action, the interface might automatically highlight the next step while graying out previously completed actions to reduce confusion. In another embodiment, the sequence could dynamically change to include additional steps or alternative actions if a detected condition, such as a machine fault, necessitates it. This ensures that the interface remains relevant and responsive to the operator's needs.

The fourth step, presenting a feedback prompt on the display interface 240, is represented as an interactive feature requiring the operator to confirm task completion before advancing to the next illustration. This step is crucial for ensuring task accuracy and preventing skipped steps. For example, the feedback prompt could appear as a checkbox or confirmation button on the interface, which the operator must select to proceed. In some embodiments, the feedback prompt could include a verification mechanism, such as scanning a QR code on the machine component to confirm the operator has physically completed the step.

The method 200 as illustrated in Figure 12 demonstrates a structured and logical progression through each task, enhancing the operator's ability to manage complex procedures with ease. Each step is visually distinct and contextually aligned with the operator's actions, reducing cognitive load and minimizing the potential for errors. For example, the interface may display simplified instructions during routine maintenance but provide more detailed guidance for advanced troubleshooting, tailoring the level of detail to the operator's skill level and the task complexity.

Overall, the drawing of Figure 12 serves as a visual summary of the approach outlined in the method according to the first aspect of the present disclosure.

By focusing on intuitive interaction and real-time adaptability, the disclosed method addresses the challenges of current HMIs, providing a user-friendly solution that improves efficiency and reduces operational downtime. The integration of advanced features such as dynamic illustration adjustments and feedback prompts ensures that the system remains both accessible to less-experienced operators and powerful enough to meet the demands of complex industrial processes.

Claims (1)

CONCLUSIONS 1. A computer-implemented (100) method for operating a human-machine interface of an industrial packaging device, consisting of: receiving input from the operator (110) to start a maintenance or operational adjustment procedure; displaying a predetermined sequence of illustrations (120) on a display interface, where each illustration represents a step in the procedure for interacting with a specific part of the packaging device; dynamically adjusting the displayed sequence of illustrations (130) based on the operator's progress through the procedure, where the adjustments are configured to present the illustration corresponding to the current step and to modify subsequent illustrations based on previous input from the operator; and presenting a feedback prompt (140) on the display interface for each step, where the operator must confirm that the task is completed before proceeding to the next illustration in the sequence; where the dynamic adjustment of the illustrations can be controlled to update the sequence and presentation of illustrations in response to the operator's input. 2. The method of operation referred to in Claim 1, where the display interface contains a main menu with selectable views for accessing different operational modes of the packaging device, where each view corresponds to a separate function related to the operation, maintenance or configuration of the device. 3. The method of conclusion 2, where the operational mode for displaying the current status of the device includes illustrations that integrate sensor data and system metrics, configured to display real-time operating conditions and selectable options for further diagnostic information. 4. The method of conclusion 1, whereby the illustrations for guiding production planning are dynamically adjusted based on the operational schedule, the current task sequence, and operator input, providing an interactive overview of the planned operations and allowing changes to parameters related to the ongoing production sequence. 5. The method referred to in Claim 1, which further consists of an indicator system in the display interface that can be used to indicate the status of machine components by means of visual cues related to predefined maintenance statuses, where each cue indicates the need for inspection, adjustment, or replacement of specific components. 6. The method of conclusion 5, whereby the indicator system contains colour-coded displays corresponding to different maintenance priorities, which can be used to alert the operator based on the urgency of each maintenance task required to maintain the functionality of the device. 7. The method of claim 1, whereby the illustrations relating to maintenance procedures are configured to guide the operator interactively through a predefined sequence of maintenance actions, where each illustration is structured to display spatial relationships of machine components relevant to the current step in the procedure. 8. The method of conclusion 1, where each illustration in the sequence is dynamically adjusted to reflect operator input and system status, with subsequent illustrations changing based on the completion of previous tasks to provide a streamlined sequence of interactive instructions. 9. The method of claim 1, where the display interface contains a representation of the control setting configured for refining device parameters, where each control setting is presented with a configurable input element that can be operated to visually update the corresponding illustration to display changes in operational parameters. 10. The method of conclusion 1, whereby the illustrations are configured to display only the subset of system data corresponding to the current operational state of the device, selectively filtering out non-essential data to increase the focus on task-relevant information. 14. The method of claim 1, whereby the interface configuration is restricted to predefined user input related to the selected operating mode, thereby restricting the operator's interaction options to functions relevant to the current sequence of tasks. 12. The method of claim 1, which further includes a configuration mode accessible to a system administrator, where the configuration mode allows adjustments to the structure and order of illustrations based on expected usage patterns of the device or routine maintenance requirements. 13. The method of action referred to in Conclusion 1, where the display interface includes a mode for switching between real-time operational data and simplified task-oriented views, where each mode can be selected based on the operational needs of the operator. 14. The method of claim 1, whereby the sequence of illustrations supports the documentation of the operator's actions during each procedure, configured to capture the sequence of steps taken and generate a logbook associated with each maintenance or operational adjustment procedure. 15. The method of claim 1, whereby the illustrations are dynamically adapted to the system configuration based on operator input, so that the illustrations on the display interface can be adjusted to respond to changes in device settings, operational parameters, or the task completion status. 16. The method of action referred to in Conclusion 1, where the method consists of dynamically prioritizing maintenance tasks on the display interface, where the prioritization is based on real-time sensor data indicating the operational state of the packaging device. 17. The method of claim 1, where the method involves filtering system data to display only task-relevant information during maintenance or operational procedures, whereby the filtering dynamically excludes non-essential data based on the current operational state. 18. The method of conclusion 1, where the method consists of integrating multimodal feedback prompts into the screen interface, whereby the feedback comprises a combination of visual, auditory, and haptic signals to confirm the progress and completion of the task. 19. The method of action referred to in Conclusion 1, where the method consists of dynamically adjusting the layout and sequence of interactive instructions on the screen interface based on operator input, whereby the system readjusts subsequent instructions to reflect task progress or deviations from expected procedures. 20. The method of action referred to in Conclusion 1, where the method consists of implementing an interactive simulation mode accessible via the display interface, enabling the simulation to enable operators to practice procedures without influencing the actual machine operations. 21. A device for operating a human-machine interface of an industrial packaging device, consisting of: - a display interface; - an input unit configured to receive input from the operator; and - a control unit configured to perform the operation of claim 1. 22. A computer program product consisting of instructions which, when executed by a processing unit of an industrial packaging device, cause the processing unit to carry out the steps of the method of claim 1. 23. A computer-readable storage medium containing instructions which, when executed by a processing unit of an industrial packaging apparatus, cause the processing unit to perform the steps of the process of claim 1. 24. A data carrier containing instructions for the program code which, when loaded into a processing unit of an industrial packaging apparatus, cause the processing unit to execute the steps of the operation of claim 1.