In the field of operating terminals, too, HUMMEL AG follows its motto: "We set the standards". The typical PLC controls are mostly overloaded with functions which are not needed at all in customers' applications. On the other hand, the important functions, such as design or sector-specific requirements suffer from limits on their flexibility of configuration. As a result of its many years of competence, HUMMEL AG can offer carefully thought-through solutions from one source, tailor-made for the customers' applications.

Ever more complex processes combined with increasing performance and more functions on the part of automated machine control easily lead to confusion and quickly result in excessive demands on the operator. Standard operating terminals are rarely ideal for specific control tasks because they offer a limited variety of models. What is more, PLC with useless multi-functions are expensive and not economical. So for HUMMEL AG it is of the highest priority to keep the cost-benefit ratio constantly under review when developing operating terminals so that devices can be used effectively.

Individual design, operating safety and a rugged surface to withstand oils, acids, abrasion and other environmental conditions are decisive not only for mobile use of operating consoles. These individual characteristics compared to our competitors, and not least the cost savings made by omitting multiple functions which remain unused yet which have to be paid for, are powerful arguments for opting for customised solutions. The result is more compact units which can lead to savings even for small runs.

The decisive factors for operator acceptance and consequently decisive for the sales success of a machine is the individual design resulting in intuitive operation. It is important to remember that as regards shape, colour and arrangement, and even the electronics, practically every unit can be designed as required. At HUMMEL AG the customer can also choose the visual display he wants. Simple seven-segment digital displays, TFT screens or even touch panels are part of our tailor-made range of solutions. With almost unlimited possibilities for design and configuration of individual operating terminals, as well as the possibility of creating the appropriate peripherals for the application in question, it is definitely economical to carry through a customised solution, even for small quantities. The unique appearance in addition distinguishes our products from the competition and creates a recognition factor.

Besides cost effectiveness, the advantages, although not directly measurable, of an individual user interface should be taken into consideration. An easily understandable, self-explanatory operating environment guided by individual key symbols is rapidly accepted by the operator and so increases productivity of both man and machine. Customised control panels are more than just a possible alternative!

System solutions

Under one roof at HUMMEL AG the various Business Divisions work closely together. This gives rise to symbiosis which results in big advantages for our customers. So for instance, HUMMEL enclosures of plastic, aluminium or stainless steel are processed in accordance with customers' specifications and fitted with market-leading HUMMEL electrical components such as cable glands or connectors. Furthermore, these control systems and panels, manufactured to include mechanical and electronic devices individually developed by us, can be rounded out to become a system solution complete with cable harness. By omitting additional suppliers, HUMMEL AG's customers optimise their logistical process in purchasing. Very often by using additional HUMMEL products, the different layers of middlemen can be rationalised and this contributes to enormous cost savings.