Case Study – Thermal Management

A long-established multinational corporation specializing in industrial thermal management, our customer has built a global presence over several decades by delivering sophisticated, custom-designed thermal solutions for critical operational needs across diverse sectors.

The company set out to re-engineer a specialized controller unit vital to its industrial heating systems, with a primary objective of significantly improving the Human-Machine Interface (HMI) to enhance operator efficiency and overall usability.

While HMI modernization was a key driver, the project also required the development of a robust, field-ready, and highly reliable device. There was also a clear goal to integrate distinct technological advancements to reinforce the organization’s competitive edge. In response to an industry shift away from traditional membrane keypad controllers and toward interactive touchscreen interfaces, the team needed a more intuitive, modern, and user-friendly design to stay ahead of evolving market demands and customer expectations.

Through close collaboration—from initial sketches to interactive HMI prototypes—we meticulously engineered an interface that skillfully balanced advanced functionality, intuitive operation, and rugged industrial durability. Our end- to-end methodology, encompassing rigorous engineering, comprehensive testing, and full certification, resulted in a validated, user-centric solution designed to significantly improve operator performance and system reliability.

What set the solution apart was not only the holistic approach, but also the integration of advanced technologies and thoughtful design elements tailored for the industrial environment. Key differentiators included a distinctive user interface and the application of our proprietary SHIPTide technology, as outlined below:

• User Interface Design: A unique illuminated element was introduced to improve visibility, ensuring optimal legibility and user interaction—even in low-light or high-ambient conditions.
• Touchscreen Compatibility: Recognizing the harsh conditions of industrial operations, we recommended and implemented a glove-compatible LCD touchscreen, allowing operators to interact with the device without removing their gloves.
• SHIPTide GUI Development: Leveraging our proprietary SHIPTide rapid GUI development tool, we streamlined the design and deployment of the graphical user interface. SHIPTide supports efficient management of all aspects of GUI creation, enabling fast iteration cycles and ensuring the interface met both aesthetic and functional requirements. This positioned us as a comprehensive solution provider—offering both the technology and expertise to deliver a fully integrated system.