Enhancing Robotic Control with User-Friendly Interfaces
An Intuitive HMI Solution Optimizing Usability in Robotic Cleaning Applications
Hako, a leading provider of cleaning, municipal and water-jet technology, collaborated with Mono to bring their vision of an enhanced human-machine interface (HMI) for their autonomous cleaning machines to life. Hako aimed to equip their cleaning robots with an intuitive tablet-based HMI that would allow end-users to set cleaning schedules, monitor system status, and view sensor data effortlessly. Mono contributed by executing the interface design and system integration, turning Hako's concept into reality. The resulting solution streamlined user interaction, minimized manual setup times, and ensured efficient robotic maintenance, aligning with Hako's innovative approach to autonomous cleaning technology.
Industry
Robotics and Autonomous Cleaning Solutions
Company overview
Hako, a leading provider of Cleaning, Municipal and Waterjet Technology.
The Challenge
As a leading company in autonomous cleaning solutions, Hako sought to provide users with a way to manage cleaning schedules and monitor robotic status with ease. They required an HMI that would:
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Enable cleaning staff to schedule events remotely and set up recurring cleaning tasks
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Allow users to view essential operational status information during docking and charging
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Provide service technicians with a way to monitor sensor data in real-time to diagnose potential sensor malfunctions
The Solution
Hako defined the overall concept—including the cleaning machine features, calendar, and sensor views—while Mono took on the design and development of the interface to bring that vision to life. We delivered a cutting-edge, multi-functional HMI with a highly intuitive and user-friendly interface, tailored to Hako’s operational needs. The result is a robust solution that enhances usability, aligns seamlessly with real-world workflows, and delivers on both efficiency and functionality.
The Key Features
Automated scheduling calendar
A dynamic calendar allowing users to set dates, times, recurrence rules, and specific cleaning maps. This automation enables robots to start their cleaning tasks at preset intervals, removing the need for users to be physically present.
Docking screen
An HMI docking interface that provides real-time status updates, including battery levels, water levels, and waste levels, essential for managing the robot’s docked state. Provides the ability to restrict certain functions, like water refilling, in scenarios where the robot needs to be transported, allowing for optimized task management and ensuring safe handling.
Sensor visualization for diagnostics
A sensor view interface that leverages ROSLIB and 3D visualization through Three.js and WebGL, displaying 2D/3D sensor data from LIDAR and point-cloud sensors. This feature aids technicians in visualizing sensor outputs for troubleshooting, helping identify and resolve sensor-related issues efficiently.
Results and Outcomes
The HMI solution yielded significant operational improvements for Hako, enhancing the overall user experience and allowing better control over the autonomous cleaning process.
Enhanced visibility into system diagnostics reduced downtime by enabling faster issue resolution, while tailored access controls ensured users could focus on their specific tasks without unnecessary complexity.
Increased scheduling efficiency
The scheduling calendar reduced the time spent configuring cleaning events, allowing staff to schedule tasks remotely and enabling automation that fit their specific routines.
Enhanced maintenance and diagnostic capabilities
The docking screen and sensor view provided essential operational insights, which enhanced troubleshooting efficiency and supported ongoing robot maintenance.
Enhanced Experience for Every User
By tailoring the interface to specific roles, we created a more meaningful experience for every user. Cleaning staff enjoy a clear, intuitive scheduling interface, while technicians benefit from powerful diagnostic tools—each empowered with exactly what they need to work smarter and more efficiently.
Conclusion and Future Plans
This HMI solution represents a powerful step forward in the field of autonomous cleaning technology, making robotic operation more accessible and efficient for both service technicians and cleaning staff. With plans to further optimize these features, Mono will continue to support Hako as they expand their product’s functionality, integrating new features that adapt to evolving customer needs.
If your organization is facing similar challenges in production management, contact Mono Software today to explore how a custom-built centralized production system can help optimize your processes.
Testimonials
We highly value our collaboration with Mono, which has been instrumental in advancing the user interface of our cleaning robot. Through their expertise and dedication, we've successfully implemented key new features — including a calendar function, a detailed sensor view, and numerous improvements to the control and navigation of the UI. The partnership has been marked by a clear understanding of our product vision, smooth communication, and a strong focus on user-centered design. We look forward to continuing this successful cooperation.
— Dr.-Ing Nils Rottmann, HAKO
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