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Human-Machine Interface (HMI) is a corruption of the original term Man-Machine Interface (MMI) which has been in use for decades but was changed to conform to certain views of political correctness." In practice, the abbreviation "MMI" is still frequently used although some who still use the term may claim that MMI stands for something different now (e.g. "Management and Manufacturing Information" or "Mammal-Machine Interface"), in order to avoid controversy.

Whether it is called MMI or HMI, the terms refer to the "layer" that separates a human that is operating a machine from the machine itself.

One example of a HMI is the computer hardware and software that enables a single operator to monitor and control large machinery remotely.

The HMI interface involves the flow of decision support information via

visual cues - generally provided by a computer monitor
audible cues - speakers, horns, walkie-talkies
control actions - keyboards, buttons, switches

Multiple monitors, communication devices and control surfaces grouped together form a console or operator station. From a console, an operator scans information, receives notifications and makes control actions.

A control room may consist of one or more operator consoles.

Control rooms and operator stations can be found in many different applications such as

Airport control tower
Police or ambulance dispatcher
Nuclear power plant

The design of cockpits in airplanes and helicopters involve highly specialized HMI designs. However consumer appliances such as washing machines or dishwashers also have a HMI.

In science fiction, HMI is sometimes used to refer to what is better described as direct neural interface.

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Topics: Human-Machine Interface, Human Evolution, Human Anatomy...