Uses light backgrounds to reduce glare and reserves bright colors exclusively for abnormal situations (exceptions), ensuring alarms stand out instantly. Built-in Symbol Library:
The Graphics Builder's primary role is to design the "windows" into your industrial process. The interfaces with the 800xA Plant Explorer (where you create and manage all project objects) and works alongside the Control Builder (for programming logic). The graphics you create can be deployed on 800xA Operator Workplaces (OWPs) , giving operators the information and control they need, from simple data visualization to complex, high-performance HMIs.
Traditional graphics used bright colors for normal operations, causing visual fatigue. High-performance design uses a muted gray palette for normal conditions. Bright colors (red, yellow, orange) are strictly reserved for alarms and abnormal situations to immediately draw the operator’s eye. 2. Analytical Data Presentation
Instead of hardcoding Tank101.Level , use #CurrentTank.Level . When you instantiate the graphic, pass Tank102 or Tank103 . This reduces graphic count by 95%. abb 800xa graphics builder
: Ensures displays remain clear at any zoom level or resolution. Solution Libraries
The is far more than a simple drawing tool. It is a critical component for creating an effective, high-performance interface between the operator and the control system. By combining powerful engineering features, vector graphics, and support for modern HMI design principles, it allows engineers to build smarter, more intuitive, and highly efficient control displays.
Even experienced engineers hit walls. Here are solutions to frequent problems: Uses light backgrounds to reduce glare and reserves
Use trend sparklines and bar gauges instead of raw digital numbers. Performance Optimization
The Graphics Builder is designed not just for creation, but for creating effective HMIs. ABB promotes principles to reduce cognitive load and enhance operator decision-making. When building your displays, keep the following ergonomic guidelines in mind:
are pieces of information or functionality attached to that object (e.g., control logic, faceplates, trend logs, and graphic elements). The graphics you create can be deployed on
Using conditional visibility ( Subscription Rate ) to only fetch data for elements currently visible to the operator. 6. Troubleshooting and Validation
Modern industrial automation favors concepts over older, highly colorful 3D graphics. The Graphics Builder fully supports the ISA-101 standard, which emphasizes situational awareness. 1. Color Strategy
Dense graphics can slow down workplace responsiveness. Optimize your displays by: