Operator interface enclosures get leaner with flat panels

By Control Engineering Staff December 1, 2005

Hoffman redesigned its Concept operator interface (OI) enclosure series to meet “demands of modern manufacturing.”

Proliferation of flat-panel touchscreens led Hoffman to redesign its Concept operator interface (OI) enclosure series to, “address the aesthetic, ergonomic, and functional demands of modern manufacturing,” says Mark Saunders, Hoffman product manager. “These enclosures reflect the requirements of flat screens, providing more sizes and options for the profusion of computer-driven controls.” Twenty standard enclosures designed for pendant- or pedestal-mounted controls accept the new generation flat-screen OI devices, including touch screens, LCD monitors, pushbuttons, and other traditional controls.

The enclosure has one part number for the 14-gauge steel body, quarter-turn latching back door, blank aluminum front plate (for easy customization), and aluminum “comfort grip” handle extrusions that extend enclosure height. The extrusions, said to add “modern aesthetics” and improve operator comfort, are available in blue, red, purple, and turquoise accent colors and a RAL-9005, black polyester-powder finish. Attached clipboard/whiteboard, a drive access door, keyboard tray, and accessory handles are among other options. Each model is pre-drilled for top mounting with a Series 2 or Series 4 50/60 pendant arm or pedestal. Custom options include more than 100 finish colors and textures, along with holes, cutouts, and accessories to fit specifications.

Hoffman is a part of the Pentair Enclosures Group.

—Edited by Mark T. Hoske, editor-in-chief, Control Engineering MHoske@cfemedia.com