Simply simple - the Fronius Xplorer

The background

Welding is no longer only craftsmanship. Digitally administred data such as component dimensions, type and position of the weld seam, welding stress, arc type, etc. render this craft more precisely - but increase the complexity at the same time.

Fronius International GmbH is the technological leader in welding technology. The company identified the need for a wholistic welding management and developed the Fronius Xplorer – a software for the simple and clear administration of welding system networks in automated manufacturing. User Interface Design GmbH (UID) developed the operating concept for the Xplorer and designed a consistent graphical user interface which can also be used as a touch screen.

The objectives

The Xplorer is partly based on existing programs, combines them and adds additional modules. The user receives information on the condition of all welding current sources in the production, independent of the site. A worldwide network allows the user to control and configure all machines by means of the Fronius Xplorer.

Therefore, the design of such a complex system required a consistent user interface with an intuitive navigation. The usermust be able to get an overview of all machines in the network with one touch on the screen. The display of the numerous parameters and functions are supposed to support the users in their work.

The procedure

• Analysis of the use context
• Execution of design workshops
• Development of an interaction concept
• Graphical design and icon design
• Documentation in a style guide

The result

Using the software is enormously simplifiesd by the clearly structured presentation of the different welding systems in one production. The graphical visualization of numeric values such as current and the illustration of diagrams were aspects concentrated upon. Self-explaining symbols allow intuitive operation, even by touch screen, if need be. Thus, the central control of any number of systems becomes as easy as pie. And the user is able to pay attention to the actual work, and not to a complicated operation of a system.

Project from 2006

Links for further information

• Reference:UID designs user interface for the new remote control RCU 5000i
• Customer: Fronius International