Determining the efficiency of techniques for optimizing the number of tags in modern human-machine interfaces under conditions of limited resources

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The object of this study is modern Human-Machine Interfaces (HMI) and SCADA systems in the industry. The subject of research is techniques for optimizing the number of tags (variables) in the SCADA/HMI environment to enhance resource utilization efficiency. One of the challenges in creating SCADA/HMI-based solutions can be the number of tags (variables) in the runtime environment. A large number of tags can lead to a problem of limited available resources. The technique presented here allow for the optimization of the number of tags used in Human-Machine Interface systems built with SCADA software and operator panels in combination with Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs). An evaluation of the efficiency of techniques for reducing the number of HMI tags was conducted on an experimental configuration consisting of objects such as discrete input/output, analog input/output, actuators such as valves with discrete/analog control, and drives with frequency converters. The optimization coefficient, defined as the ratio of the number of input/output tags used directly to the number of tags after applying the optimization principle, was used as the efficiency criterion. Depending on the techniques and their combinations, the criterion values reached orders of 4, 10, and in one case even more than 100. These values are explained by the application of multiplexing approaches and various packing techniques. The advantages and disadvantages of the reported techniques, as well as their application limitations, have been identified. Some techniques are suitable only for specific tasks. These techniques could be applied in practical implementation when designing modern high-efficiency Human-Machine Interfaces under conditions of limited resources.