Skip to main content

Linear Flow

About​

A Linear Flow visualizes data flows, processes, or the modules of a machine in a straightforward linear format that is easy to understand. It consists of several Linear Flow Module.

Example: Flow that Visualizes Important Components of a Machine
A machine that consists of 5 modules. Each module reports its most important key figures. The last module reports an alarming status using an output, as well as the overall module status.

Anatomy​

  1. Linear Flow

  2. Module

  3. Module Children

  4. Module Image

Guiding Design Principles of the Linear Flow​

Clarity and guidance over physical accuracy

In many HMIs, we see a detailed display of machines with many options. While this may work well for the machine manufacturer, it may not be the best way to view and operate a machine. Because to operators the machine is mostly a black box. Seeing all the details of the inner workings can be overwhelming.

Operators usually only need the most important information about the machine modules they care about.

That’s why the Linear Flow gives you an overview of the most important elements of a machine, or a data flow with the most important

Let horizontal swiping and scroll snapping work their magic – no need to worry if it doesn't fit correctly

Getting this linear view to fit perfectly on every single screen size out there? Trust us, it's more trouble than it's worth. Instead, let it expand to meet the full width at first. If it gets too wide, no worries - users can just swipe through it. It works like a charm, especially on touch devices. Plus, HELIO ensures everything snaps into place just right.

Read only first – manipulation can be handled in overlays

Adding interactive elements to a detailed view like this will only make it more visually cluttered. To simplify the view, highlight only the most important figures and statuses. Place any interactive elements on separate pages that can be shown as a layer over the main content using the Open Page as Overlay Action

Properties​

Sizing

Image Height

Height that gets applied to all images used in this flow. If you’re unsure what height to specify make sure to also read the Why does HELIO use the "px" unit? guide.

To break it down into a simple rule.

  1. If you plan to stick to the default height of 120 device independent CSS pixels. Make sure to create a canvas in your design tool that is 120x120 wide.
  2. If you plan to support retina screens or mobile devices you should switch to a retina version. Make sure to adjust the export settings in your design tool and choose 2x as an output format.

UX Tips & Tricks: Use the same height for all your image

This will simplify adjusting each module. You can use different widths, but you must remember to change the module's width from Default to Fixed.

Display Condition

Condition

Determines whether an element or page should be visible or hidden to the current user. The condition can be set to different List of Dynamic Property Types – as long as the the type returns true or false you’re good to go.

Elements

Linear Flow Module