SAFETY SYSTEM

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a safety interlock system.

[0002] Such a safety interlock system generally serves to provide safety functions for a system. The term "system" generally also includes parts of systems or units associated with them. A system can, in particular, also be a machine or a device. Generally, such a system can pose a hazard. The safety interlock system secures the system in such a way that, in particular, personal injury during the operation of the system is reliably prevented.

[0003] The safety interlock system generally secures access to a facility. For example, the facility may be surrounded by a fence containing a separating protective device, such as a safety gate. The safety interlock system securely holds the safety gate closed, preventing access to the facility through the gate during operation, which could pose a hazard to personnel. The safety interlock system releases the gate only when the facility is at a standstill or operating in a mode where it poses no hazard.

[0004] The operation of the system is generally ensured by a control system, which, depending on the design, can consist of one or more computer units.

[0005] The control system typically uses operating elements to adjust process parameters of the plant. These operating elements can consist of buttons, rotary knobs, and other adjustment devices.

[0006] US Patent 2015 / 0185825 A1 concerns a system with a virtual user interface assigned to a machine, specifically designed as an augmented reality (AR) unit. During a learning process, machine data is assigned to the AAR unit, enabling it to identify the machine based on its serial number. The AAR unit can then display virtual controls that can be used to trigger machine functions.

[0007] US patent 2017 / 0262150 A1 concerns a head-worn augmented reality device. This device allows users to identify facilities in their environment and then activate virtual displays that can be generated for interaction with those facilities.

[0008] US Patent 2006 / 0241792 A1 concerns an augmented reality (AR) device that a user can carry around their head. This AAR device allows users to identify units and devices by reading identification codes. The device also includes a portable computer that the user carries. This computer contains software that allows the user to signal information or trigger processes.

[0009] WO 2015 / 085434 A1 concerns an access control system with an electronic lock that a user can open using an augmented reality device. The augmented reality device has a camera that can be used to determine the lock's identification information.

[0010] US patent 2013 / 0069985 A1 concerns an augmented reality device in the form of glasses. Data, particularly images related to a target object, can be superimposed onto the user's field of vision through the glasses. This allows the user to control the target object, which could be a garage door.

[0011] The invention is based on the objective of providing a safety interlock system that has high functionality and user-friendliness.

[0012] The invention relates to a safety interlock system with at least one safety module. The safety module is assigned to a system controlled by a controller. A portable augmented reality unit is provided. The augmented reality unit includes a camera and a projection unit. The safety module includes a connection module. The connection module is configured to provide a data connection with the augmented reality unit and also with the controller. The augmented reality unit captures a code identifying the system and transmits it to the connection module. Depending on the captured code from the augmented reality unit, parameters of the operating elements are supplied. Based on these parameters, the operating elements are visualized by the projection unit of the augmented reality unit.Actuations of the virtual controls are detected by the augmented reality unit, and actuation data is generated from this data. This data is then transmitted to the controller via the connection module. The safety system automatically adjusts its settings based on this data. The safety system includes a bus module that establishes a data connection between the connection module and the controller.

[0013] According to the invention, a system and a method are thus provided which enables a user-friendly setting of process parameters of a safety system which, according to the invention, forms a safety interlock system.

[0014] According to the invention, an augmented reality unit and a connection module provided in or on the safety module are provided for this setting.

[0015] The augmented reality unit is a portable device that can be worn by a user; that is, the user can carry the augmented reality unit with them and can thus flexibly adjust process parameters of plants or parts of plants using the augmented reality unit.

[0016] Generally, the user places the augmented reality (AR) device on their head, allowing them to see an image of their surroundings. Virtual information can be superimposed onto this image, which the user can then use to adjust process parameters. Specifically, the AAR device can take the form of smart glasses. Alternatively, it can be in the form of eye tabs, contact lenses, or similar devices.

[0017] The augmented reality unit creates a convenient user interface, eliminating the need for the previously required hardware to develop controls for the security system.

[0018] Since this eliminates the need for complex hardware controls in the security system, the overall system offers a significant cost advantage. Furthermore, it allows for easy modification or even elimination of certain system variants.

[0019] In particular, the design of the safety-relevant components of the safety system is simplified. While known safety systems required safety modules with operating elements such as buttons, this effort is eliminated in the safety system according to the invention.

[0020] Such control elements, if they are designed as non-capacitive controls, have a limited lifespan. Control elements in the form of capacitive elements, on the other hand, are difficult to operate and require aids such as special gloves.

[0021] Since no such operating elements are required in the safety system according to the invention, the service life of the safety system and also the ease of use are significantly increased.

[0022] The virtual controls generated by the augmented reality unit are used by the user to adjust process parameters. The resulting input data is then transmitted to the system's control unit, which adjusts the settings accordingly. This creates a completely equivalent adjustment process to that which would occur when using physical controls, such as buttons on the safety module. In other words, the virtual controls generated by the augmented reality unit can fully and effectively replace the physical, hardware-based controls on the safety module.

[0023] A further advantage is that existing components of the safety system, which in particular serve for communication with the control system, can also be used for the process parameter setting according to the invention, thereby achieving a further rationalization effect.

[0024] The augmented reality unit comprises a camera and a projection unit as its essential components. Furthermore, the augmented reality unit includes means for establishing a data connection with the connection module. Generally, data transmission between the connection module and the augmented reality unit is wireless. Preferably, the data connection is implemented via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or a similar technology.

[0025] In a first step, the augmented reality (AR) device identifies the respective system by capturing a code that identifies the system with the camera. Since the user wearing the AAR device sees an image of the surroundings through it, they can easily locate the code. The camera then captures and decodes the code visible in the surrounding image and thus within the camera's field of view. The code could be, for example, a QR code, matrix code, or barcode.

[0026] The decoded code is transferred from the augmented reality unit to the connection module and preferably stored there.

[0027] Since the system or connection module is identified by capturing the code, relevant parameters for this system are sent from the control element of the security system to the augmented reality unit.

[0028] Generally, these parameters can be stored in the connection module. It is particularly advantageous if the connection module has an interface to an external unit, allowing the parameters to be read from the external unit. In both cases, the augmented reality unit then receives the parameters from the connection module. The interface can be implemented as an internet connection. In principle, the augmented reality unit itself could even have such an interface, enabling the parameters to be transferred directly from the external unit to the augmented reality unit.

[0029] Based on the parameters, the projection unit of the augmented reality unit then generates an image of the controls, which is superimposed onto the environment image of the augmented reality unit. This creates a representation of virtual controls visible to the user.

[0030] The user can then operate the virtual controls, for example using gesture control, which is recorded and analyzed in the augmented reality unit. This generates actuation data that is transmitted to the controller via the safety module, allowing for appropriate adjustments.

[0031] The safety system, and in particular its safety module, no longer needs to be equipped with physical controls to manually adjust settings, especially in plant control. Instead, such physical controls on components of the safety system are replaced by virtual settings via the augmented reality unit.

[0032] The safety module(s) generally communicate via a bus module, which is part of the safety system. A data connection between the connection module and the controller is established via the bus module.

[0033] For data transmission via this data connection, an identifier that identifies the security system is stored in the connection module, which can be compared with the control system.

[0034] In the connection module, the identifier is assigned to the code read by the augmented reality unit.

[0035] The connection module thus forms a link between the augmented reality unit on the one hand and the control system on the other.

[0036] In particular, the bus module has implemented a data protocol from the connection module for communication with the augmented reality unit into a data protocol for communication with the controller.

[0037] For this data transfer from the augmented reality unit via the connection module to the controller, the assignment of the identifier to the code determined by the augmented reality unit is used.

[0038] In general, the assignment of the identifier to the code can also be used for a further, more detailed identification of the security system with the plant.

[0039] In the simplest case, the code captured by the augmented reality unit is sufficient to identify the system and determine the associated parameters for the control elements used to adjust process variables. If different safety components of the safety system can be assigned to the system in such a way that different control element configurations are possible, the code, together with the identifier, is used to transmit the appropriate control element parameters for the respective safety system from the connection module to the augmented reality unit. This allows the corresponding virtual control elements to then be visualized by the augmented reality unit.

[0040] According to an advantageous embodiment, the connection module forms a submodule of a safety module.

[0041] This submodule thus forms a component of a security module and can therefore be integrated into the security system.

[0042] The connection module can be connected to the safety module, which is particularly advantageous.

[0043] In particular, the connection module can be plugged onto the safety module, thereby automatically making electrical contact between the connection module and the safety module.

[0044] The invention will be explained below with reference to the drawings. The drawings show: Figure 1: Schematic representation of an embodiment of the safety system according to the invention. Figure 2: Schematic representation of a safety system in the form of a safety interlock system.

[0045] Figure 1Figure 1 schematically shows an embodiment of the safety system 1 according to the invention. The safety system 1 comprises a safety module 2, which provides a safety function for a system 3 controlled by a controller 4. The term system 3 generally also includes machines or automated devices. The controller 4 can, for example, be a PLC.

[0046] At the in Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, the safety system 1 comprises a safety module 2. Generally, several safety modules 2 can also be provided. The safety functions performed by the safety module(s) 2 are typically monitoring functions that ensure that the system 3 does not pose any danger to persons.

[0047] The safety system 1 also includes a bus module 5, via which data is exchanged between the safety module 2 and the controller 4.

[0048] A data connection 6 is provided between the bus module 5 and the controller 4, which in this case is formed by an Ethernet connection.

[0049] An additional data connection 7 is provided between the bus module 5 and the safety module 2.

[0050] In general, different data protocols are used for data transmissions via data connections 6, 7 between safety module 2 and bus module 5 on the one hand, and between bus module 5 and the controller 4 on the other.

[0051] Bus module 5 then implements these data protocols, enabling data exchange between safety module 2 and controller 4 via bus module 5. An identifier is provided for safety module 2, which is stored in both safety module 2 and controller 4 and is used for communication between them.

[0052] No operating elements such as buttons or the like are required on the safety module 2 for setting process parameters. According to the invention, an augmented reality unit 8 is provided instead of such operating elements. This unit is designed in the form of smart glasses or similar devices and can be worn by a user. A camera 9 and a projection unit 10 are integrated into the augmented reality unit 8.

[0053] The user wearing the Augmented Reality Unit 8 sees an environment image into which information can be superimposed using the Projection Unit 10; that is, a virtual visible image is overlaid on the real environment image.

[0054] The safety module 2 has a connection module 11. The connection module 11 forms a sub-module of the safety module 2 and can be plugged onto it, thereby automatically making electrical contact between the connection module 11 and the safety module 2.

[0055] A contactless data connection 12 in the form of a WLAN connection, Bluetooth connection or the like is automatically established between the connection module 11 and the augmented reality unit 8, whereby the necessary data transmission means are integrated in both the connection module 11 and the augmented reality unit 8.

[0056] According to the invention, the augmented reality unit 8 and the connection module 11 are used to adjust the process parameters for the safety system 1.

[0057] For this purpose, a QR code 13 attached to the system 3 is first scanned using camera 9 of the augmented reality unit 8. A matrix code, a barcode, or the like can also be used instead of a QR code 13.

[0058] The code contained in QR code 13, that is, its code information, is transmitted from the augmented reality unit 8 to the connection module 11. In the connection module 11, the code is stored together with the identifier that identifies the security system 1, thus enabling an association between these elements.

[0059] The code and identifier identify Annex 3 and also the security components forming security system 1.

[0060] Based on the code and identifier for system 3, connection module 11 transmits parameters for operating elements, particularly those assigned to safety module(s) 2, to the augmented reality unit 8. These parameters can, in principle, be stored within connection module 11 itself. Advantageously, connection module 11 has an interface 14 for connecting to an external unit where these parameters are stored. Once connection module 11 knows the system 3 code, it can read the parameters from the external unit via interface 14. Interface 14 can, in particular, be configured as an internet connection.

[0061] Based on the parameters of the controls transmitted from the connection module 11 to the augmented reality unit 8, a virtual image of the controls is generated by the projection unit 10 of the augmented reality unit 8 and superimposed on the environment image that the user sees through the augmented reality unit 8. The user thus sees virtual controls in the environment. These virtual controls can be in the form of buttons, knobs, or the like. The virtual controls can be operated by the user, in particular by gesture control. For example, the user moves a finger over a control in the form of a button. The camera 9 of the augmented reality unit 8 detects this, and the augmented reality unit 8 interprets this as operation of the control, specifically as pressing the button.

[0062] Since the parameters of the control elements are stored in the Augmented Reality Unit 8, corresponding actuation data is generated in this unit by the registered actuation of the control element; that is, exactly the same actuation data is generated as if a user had actuated a real control element provided in hardware on a security module 2.

[0063] This actuation data is sent from the Augmented Reality Unit 8 to the Connection Module 11. The Connection Module 11 sends the actuation data to the Controller 4 via the Bus Module 5. In the Connection Module 11, the assignment of the code to the identifier is used to send the actuation data to the Controller 4 via the Bus Module 5 under this identifier. The Controller 4 then adjusts process parameters based on this actuation data, i.e., based on the actuation of the virtual controls generated by the Augmented Reality Unit 8.

[0064] Figure 2 Figure 1 shows the safety components of a safety system 1 in the form of a safety interlock system. The safety interlock system ensures the secure locking of a separating protective device, such as a safety gate. The safety gate is, for example, integrated into a fence that surrounds a hazardous area of ​​this system 3. A person can therefore only access system 3 through the safety gate.

[0065] During operation where the equipment 3 may pose a hazard to persons, the safety interlock system holds the safety door closed, preventing access to the danger zone. Only when the equipment 3 is shut down or operating in a mode where it poses no hazard to persons, does the safety interlock system release the safety door, allowing access to the danger zone through the safety door.

[0066] The safety interlock system according to Figure 2 It comprises a base module 15 and a handle module 16. The handle module 16 is arranged on the safety door. The base module 15 is arranged on a frame surrounding the safety door.

[0067] Advantageously, the projection unit 10 of the augmented reality unit 8 visualizes the virtual control elements in the area of ​​the basic module 15 or in its vicinity.

[0068] When the safety door is in its closed position, the handle module 16 is positioned as shown in the diagram. Figure 2 shown on the base module 15. The base module 15 contains locking means by which a locking action can be achieved, that is, a secure holding of the handle module 16 in the Figure 2 shown closed position.

[0069] The basic module 15 is connected to the bus module 5 via the data connection 6, with the bus module 5 itself being connected to the control unit 4 of the system 3 via the data connection 7.

[0070] The safety interlock system also includes an expansion module 17, which forms a safety I / O module, i.e., a safe module for providing inputs and outputs. The expansion module 17 is connected to the bus module via a data connection 7'.

[0071] Furthermore, the safety interlock system includes an expansion module 18 connected to the basic module 15, which serves to connect peripheral units such as signal transmitters 19. The expansion module 18 is optional, meaning that it is not mandatory to include it in the safety interlock system.

[0072] The in Figure 2 The connection module 11 (not shown) can be attached as a sub-module either to the base module 15 or to the extension module 17.

[0073] In principle, the security system 1 can be configured according to Figure 2It can also be operated without base module 15 and handle module 16, so that only the extension module 17 is provided, to which the connection module 11 is then attached. The safety system 1 then does not form a safety interlock system but a safety I / O system. Reference symbol list

[0074] (1) Security system (2) Security module (3) System (4) Control unit (5) Bus module (6) Data connection (7) Data connection (7') Data connection (8) Augmented reality unit (9) Camera (10) Projection unit (11) Connection module (12) Contactless data connection (13) QR code (14) Interface (15) Base module (16) Handle module (17) Expansion module (18) Expansion module (19) Signal transmitter

Claims

1. Safety interlock system comprising at least one safety module (2) which is associated with a system (3) controlled by a controller (4), characterised in that a portable augmented reality unit (8) is provided, which comprises a camera (9) and a projection unit (10), in that the safety module (2) comprises a connection module (11) which is configured to establish a data connection (12) with the augmented reality unit (8) and, furthermore, a data connection (6, 7) with the control unit (4), that a code identifying the system (3) is detected by the augmented reality unit (8) and transmitted to the connection module (11), that, depending on the detected code, parameters of the control elements are supplied to the augmented reality unit (8) are supplied with parameters of control elements, that on the basis of the parameters the control elements are visualised by the projection unit (10) of the augmented reality unit (8), that actuations of the virtual control elements are detected by means of the augmented reality unit (8) are detected and actuation data is generated therefrom, that the actuation data is transmitted via the connection module (11) to the control unit (4), whereby settings are automatically carried out in the safety system (1) depending on the actuation data, and that the safety system (1) comprises a bus module (5) via which a data connection (6, 7) is established between the connection module (11) and the control unit (4).

2. Safety interlock system according to claim 1, characterised in that, within the bus module (5), a data protocol of the connection module (11) for communication with the augmented reality unit (8) is converted into a data protocol for communication with the controller (4).

3. Safety interlock system according to one of claims 1 or 2, characterised in that an identifier characterising the safety system (1) is stored in the connection module (11), which identifier can be synchronised with the controller (4).

4. Safety interlock system according to claim 3, characterised in that, in the connection module (11), the identifier is assigned to the code read by the augmented reality unit (8).

5. Safety interlock system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterised in that the system (3) is identifiable by means of a QR code (13), a matrix code or a barcode.

6. Safety interlock system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterised in that the parameters of the operating elements are transmitted from the connection module (11) or an external unit to the augmented reality unit (8).

7. Safety interlock system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterised in that the connection module (11) and / or the augmented reality unit (8) comprises an interface (14) for establishing a data connection with the external unit.

8. Safety interlock system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterised in that the augmented reality unit (8) is designed in the form of smart glasses.

9. Safety interlock system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterised in that virtual control elements are superimposed onto an image of the surroundings visible via the augmented reality unit (8).

10. Safety interlock system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterised in that the virtual control elements are adjustable by means of gesture controls.

11. Safety interlock system according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterised in that the connection module (11) forms a submodule of a safety module (2).

12. Safety interlock system according to claim 11, characterised in that the connection module (11) is connectable to the safety module (2).