Safety Gate Monitoring Module

Abstract

To provide a protective door monitoring module which can be easily and flexibly handled by a user with respect to different installation situations and is capable of preventing erroneous assembly.SOLUTION: A protective door monitoring module (16) is configured to generate a protective door signal when an actuator is inserted in an actuator insertion port, and comprises: a basic unit (34) including an axis (50) and a first lower end face (51) which is disposed in a lateral direction with respect to the axis (50) and includes a first interface; and a mounting bracket (46) including a second interface (48) configured to be coupled to the first interface of the basic unit (34) at a first position, a second position where which is rotated at 90 degrees in a clockwise direction with respect to the first position around the axis (50), and a third position which is rotated at 90 degrees in the clockwise direction with respect to the second position around the axis (50) of the basic unit (34).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a safety gate monitoring module having a basic unit for monitoring the state of a safety gate.

[0002] According to a further aspect, the present invention relates to a safety gate having a safety gate monitoring module of the above kind, wherein the basic unit is arranged in a first part of the safety gate and the actuator is arranged in a second part of the safety gate, and the first part and the second part of the safety gate are separated from each other when the safety gate is opened.

[0003] According to a further aspect, the present invention relates to a safety gate monitoring system comprising a safety gate as access to a safety area, a safety gate monitoring module of the type described above, and a control unit, the control unit being configured to read the safety gate signals and to control machines or systems located in the safety area according to the safety gate signals. [Background technology]

[0004] Safety gate monitoring modules of the type mentioned above are often also called safety switches. Exemplary safety gate monitoring modules or safety switches of the type mentioned at the outset are known from US Pat. No. 5,623,299, ... and US Pat. No. 5,623,299.

[0005] Safety gate monitoring modules of the type under discussion are used in safety gates, safety flaps, etc. Although the terms "safety gate monitoring module" and "safety gate" are used herein, the safety gate monitoring module of the present invention can be used in any type of separating protective device. Therefore, the term "safety gate" in the sense of the present invention must be interpreted broadly. Therefore, instead of the general term "separating protective device," only the term "safety gate" will be used hereinafter, without intending to limit the scope of protection to this.

[0006] A safety gate, which may use a safety gate monitoring module according to the present invention, typically serves as access to a safety area in which an automatically operating machine or system is located, for example, the machine may be, for example, a robot, a machine tool with a fast-rotating spindle, a transport or conveying system, a press or other machine or system whose operation poses a danger to personnel within said safety area or the working area of ​​the machine.

[0007] The safety gate monitoring module may function as a signaling device, with the help of which the control unit can detect the closed state of the safety gate. The control unit is configured to read the safety gate signal generated by the safety gate monitoring module and to control the machine according to the safety gate signal. For example, the machine can only operate if the safety gate signal is present. In other words, the control unit is configured to allow the machine or system to operate only if it receives a safety gate signal from the safety gate monitoring module, i.e., if the safety gate is closed. On the other hand, if the safety gate is open during operation (if possible), the control unit must put the machine or system into a safe state, for example, by switching off the power supply to the machine or system.

[0008] There are many machines and systems that can still pose a hazard for a period of time after being turned off, for example because they are still gradually coming to a stop. For such applications, a safety gate monitoring module is needed that prevents the safety gate from opening until the machine or system has reached its safe state. This function is called the guard locking function.

[0009] Conventionally, this type of safety gate monitoring module has what is called an actuator and its counterpart, an actuator socket. The actuator socket is part of a basic unit that usually houses further electronic components and from which a connecting cable that connects the safety gate monitoring module to a control unit usually starts. Therefore, the basic unit with the actuator socket is preferably located in a fixed part of the safety gate (e.g., in the door frame), while the actuator is preferably located in a movable part of the safety gate (e.g., in the door leaf of a movable door). This has the advantage that the part of the safety gate monitoring module that is located in the movable part of the safety gate does not need to be supplied with power, since in principle only the basic unit of the safety gate monitoring module needs to be supplied with power.

[0010] When the safety gate is closed, the actuator engages in the actuator receptacle, which is detected with the aid of one or more sensors. In the case of a safety gate monitoring module with a guard locking system, the actuator is also closed or locked in the actuator receptacle against retraction. Therefore, a "guard locking system" preferably comprises a locking device for locking the actuator in the actuator receptacle.

[0011] In the latter case, the safety gate monitoring module performs two functions: on the one hand, a detection function with the help of which the closed position of the safety gate is detected, and on the other hand, a guard locking function which prevents the safety gate from opening as long as the actuator is locked in the actuator socket. The actuator can be released, for example, by an electric motor actuator which is started by the control unit as soon as the monitored machine or system has assumed its safe state.

[0012] This type of safety gate monitoring module is sold by the applicant under the name PSENmlock. This safety gate monitoring module works well and is versatile. If the actuator of the safety gate monitoring module is substantially rod- or pin-shaped and its counterpart actuator socket is configured as a through groove, U-shaped opening, blind hole, or through-hole into which the rod- or pin-shaped actuator is inserted, this type of configuration results in a relatively high possibility of injury, because the actuator, particularly due to its shape, poses a high risk of injury. On the other hand, the actuator and the actuator socket must be relatively precisely aligned with each other, because otherwise the rod- or pin-shaped actuator would not accurately match the position of the associated through groove, U-shaped opening, blind hole, or through-hole and therefore could not be inserted therein.

[0013] US Pat. No. 5,699,949 describes a safety gate monitoring module in which an annular actuator element provides increased flexibility with respect to different installation situations compared to rod- or pin-shaped actuators. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0014] [Patent Document 1] German Patent Application Publication No. 10 2005 057 108 A1 [Patent Document 2] German Patent No. DE 103 05 704 B3 [Patent Document 3] German Patent Application Publication No. 10 2008 060 004 A1 [Patent Document 4] German Patent Application Publication No. 10 2020 120 817 A1 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0015] However, depending on the installation situation, the position and alignment of the actuator must be adjusted relative to the actuator receptacle for the reasons discussed above. The installation situation may be characterized, for example, by the type of safety gate (e.g., a pivoting safety gate or a sliding safety gate), the spatial alignment of the fixed portion of the safety gate and the movable portion of the safety gate relative to each other, and / or the available installation space at the movable or fixed portion of the safety gate.

[0016] Additionally, there is the possibility of misassembly, where a user installs a safety gate monitoring module in such a way that, even if they are in the same spatial location, the actuator and actuator receptacle are spatially aligned relative to one another in such a way that the actuator cannot be inserted into the actuator receptacle.

[0017] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a safety gate monitoring module that is easy and flexible for users to handle for different installation situations and prevents misassembly. [Means for solving the problem]

[0018] Based on a safety gate monitoring module of the type mentioned at the outset, the object is to provide a safety gate monitoring module that is connected to a basic unit having an actuator outlet and a first position, a 90° rotation about the axis of the basic unit relative to the first position. o A second position rotated clockwise and 90° relative to the second position around the axis of the basic unit. o a mounting bracket configured to be coupled to an interface of the base unit in a third position rotated clockwise, the mounting bracket and the base unit being rotated 90° relative to the third position about an axis of the base unit. oThis is achieved by having a mechanical closure device configured to prevent coupling of the mounting bracket to the interface of the base unit in a clockwise rotated fourth position.

[0019] An advantage of the present invention is that a user (e.g., an installer) can easily and flexibly assemble a safety gate monitoring module in various installation situations. With the aid of the mounting bracket, one and the same base unit can be aligned and secured in different spatial orientations relative to the mounting surface of the safety gate depending on the existing installation situation. For example, in a first position, a second position, or a third position, the mounting bracket is coupled to the base unit and attached to the mounting surface or safety gate (e.g., the door frame) to allow the actuator receptacle to receive the actuator.

[0020] At the same time, misassembly of the base unit with respect to alignment of the base unit that is not appropriate for receiving the actuator is advantageously avoided by the fact that the mounting bracket can only be secured to the base unit in a predetermined position, and therefore the base unit can also only be secured to the safety gate in a predetermined alignment relative to the mounting surface or on the safety gate. Unfavorable alignment of the safety gate monitoring module relative to the mounting surface, where the actuator cannot or only barely can engage the actuator receptacle, is avoided by the base unit and the mounting bracket with a mechanical closure. The mechanical closure prevents the mounting bracket from being able to couple to the base unit in a fourth position.

[0021] Therefore, the above object is fully achieved.

[0022] According to a preferred refinement, the mounting bracket has a mounting side arranged transversely to the second interface of the mounting bracket, and the actuator outlet is arranged in a first direction, about the axis of the basic unit, at a 90° angle relative to the first direction. oA second direction rotated counterclockwise and a second direction rotated 90° relative to the second direction around the axis of the basic unit. o The actuator is configured to receive an actuator from a third direction rotated clockwise, the mounting side being perpendicular to the first direction in the first position, the mounting side being perpendicular to the second direction in the second position, and the mounting side being perpendicular to the third direction in the third position.

[0023] In other words, the actuator receptacle of the base unit is configured to receive the actuator from three different directions, the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction being 90° about the longitudinal axis of the base unit relative to each other in a counterclockwise direction. o When the mounting bracket is in the first position or the third position, the first direction in which the actuator can be received is in each case perpendicular to the mounting side, whereas when the mounting bracket is in the second position, the second direction in which the actuator can be received is perpendicular to the mounting side.

[0024] To mount the safety gate monitoring module on a safety gate or mounting surface, the mounting side of the mounting bracket can be aligned parallel to the safety gate or mounting surface.

[0025] The mounting bracket preferably has a substantially L-shaped cross section.

[0026] According to a further refinement, the mechanical closure device comprises a mechanical closure element and a recess, one of the two interfaces comprising the mechanical closure element and the other interface comprising a recess configured to receive the mechanical closure element in each of the first, second and third positions and to prevent the fourth position.

[0027] In other words, the recess and the mechanical closure element interact in a manner similar to a slot and key. In the fourth position, the mechanical closure element cannot engage with the recess, thus preventing coupling of the basic unit to the mounting bracket in the fourth position. In contrast, in each of the first, second, and third positions, the mechanical closure element can engage with the recess.

[0028] It is self-evident that the mounting bracket can only be coupled to the base unit in one position at a time, in other words, the mounting bracket cannot be coupled to the base unit in two positions simultaneously.

[0029] A mechanical closure has the advantage of avoiding coupling of the mounting bracket to the base unit in a fourth position, which is an improper position, which refers to an orientation of the mounting bracket relative to the base unit such that the actuator cannot, or can only barely, engage the actuator receptacle when the base unit is mounted on the safety gate or mounting surface.

[0030] The mechanical closure thus acts as a misassembly preventer, which has a positive impact on the process of mounting the safety gate monitoring module to the safety gate or mounting surface because it relieves the user of the burden of assembly-related considerations and avoids time-consuming conversion work following misassembly.

[0031] For example, one interface may have three spatially separated recesses, each configured to receive a mechanical closure element at a particular position on the mounting bracket. In other words, according to this example, a first recess is configured to receive a mechanical closure element at a first position, a second recess is configured to receive a mechanical closure element at a second position, and a third recess is configured to receive a mechanical closure element at a third position. Because a mechanical closure element cannot be received at the fourth position, the mounting bracket cannot be coupled to the base unit at the fourth position.

[0032] In a preferred refinement, the mounting bracket is provided with a mechanical closure element and the basic unit is provided with a corresponding recess. It is likewise possible for the basic unit to be provided with a mechanical closure element and the mounting bracket to be provided with a recess.

[0033] According to a further refinement, the recess extends 360° around the axis of the basic unit. o is a recess extending less than

[0034] Compared to the above example, which has recesses that are spatially separated from each other, o A recess extending less than 1 / 4" has the advantage that the mounting bracket can be rotated (infinitely variable manner), for example, from a first position to a second position and / or from the second position to a third position, without having to move the mounting bracket axially parallel to the axis of the base unit. This has the effect of allowing the user to easily and conveniently install the safety gate monitoring module.

[0035] 360 degrees around oA recess that extends less than 1 / 4" has the additional advantage that the mounting bracket cannot rotate more than one full revolution about the axis of the base unit without axial movement in a direction parallel to the axis of the base unit. This is also particularly advantageous when the safety gate monitoring module is equipped with a plug. If the plug is connected to the base unit via electrical connections, these electrical connections, such as stranded wires or cables, must be protected from being twisted multiple times. Otherwise, the electrical connections could be damaged or even torn off.

[0036] The recess is preferably 180 o It has a larger angular range.

[0037] According to a further refinement, the basic unit and / or the mounting bracket comprises first axial fixing means for axially fixing the mounting bracket along the axis of the basic unit.

[0038] This has the advantage that the user does not have to manually axially fix the mounting bracket during assembly, which has the effect of simplifying the assembly process. In particular, the user can rotate the mounting bracket from one position to another in a direction parallel to the axis of the basic unit (e.g., from the first position to the second position and / or from the second position to the third position) without manually axially fixing the mounting bracket.

[0039] According to a further refinement, the basic unit comprises a releasably fixed side wall which includes part of the first axial fixing means.

[0040] In other words, the base unit has a side wall that can be removed from the base unit and reattached to the base unit, and at least a part of the first axial fixing means is located on this side wall.

[0041] This configuration has the advantage in particular that the first axial fixing means can only be removed when the releasably fixed side wall is removed from the basic unit, which can have a positive effect on the assembly process, since for example the user will automatically use or "hold" the mounting bracket and the basic unit together and therefore cannot "lose" the mounting bracket.

[0042] Furthermore, unwanted access to the base unit via the first interface can be restricted by only allowing authorized users to remove or secure the removably secured side walls of the base unit, or by allowing unauthorized access to be optically detected. For example, one or more screws securing the removably secured side walls to the base unit can be secured with a locking compound.

[0043] According to a further refinement, the mounting bracket has a mounting side arranged transversely to the second interface of the mounting bracket, and the basic unit has a first through hole and a second through hole extending perpendicular to the first through hole, the first through hole extending perpendicular to the mounting side at the first position and the third position, and the second through hole extending perpendicular to the mounting side at the second position.

[0044] In other words, when the mounting bracket is coupled to the base unit in a first direction, the longitudinal axis of the first through hole extends perpendicular to the mounting side of the mounting bracket. The longitudinal axis of the through hole refers to the axis along which the through hole extends or along which the through hole is formed (e.g., drilled) or along which a fastening means can be received. When the mounting bracket is coupled to the base unit in a second direction, the longitudinal axis of the second through hole extends perpendicular to the mounting side. When the mounting bracket is coupled to the base unit in a third direction, the longitudinal axis of the first through hole extends perpendicular to the mounting side.

[0045] The first through-hole and the second through-hole are each configured to receive a fastening means. Thus, the safety gate monitoring module can be mounted to the safety gate or the mounting surface, respectively, by the fastening means received by the first through-hole or the second through-hole. This has the advantage that the safety gate monitoring module has an additional fastening point on the safety gate or the mounting surface in addition to the fastening point on the mounting side of the mounting bracket. This can improve the mechanical stability of the connection of the basic unit to the mounting surface or the safety gate. The fastening means preferably comprises a screw.

[0046] According to a further refinement, the mounting bracket has a mounting side arranged transversely to the second interface of the mounting bracket, and the basic unit has a first side, a second side and a third side arranged substantially transversely to the first bottom end surface, and the mounting side of the mounting bracket is flush or parallel to the first side in the first position, flush or parallel to the second side in the second position, and flush or parallel to the third side in the third position.

[0047] This configuration has the particular advantage that in the first, second and third positions, one of the sides of the basic unit is parallel to or in each case aligned with the mounting side of the mounting bracket. When the mounting side is connected to the safety gate or mounting surface, one of the sides of the basic unit is also parallel to or aligned with the safety gate or mounting surface. This can have a positive effect on the mechanical stability of the safety gate monitoring module if the basic unit leans against the safety gate or mounting surface.

[0048] In this case, the term "transverse" does not necessarily mean perpendicular or orthogonal. Rather, "transverse" includes any orientation other than parallel alignment (90°). oThis includes alignment at any angle (including

[0049] According to a further refinement, the first interface comprises a plug configured to transmit electrical current and / or electrical signals, and the second interface comprises a first socket configured to receive the plug.

[0050] For example, the plug can be used to provide power to the base unit, as well as to transmit control signals between the safety gate monitoring module and the control unit.

[0051] The placement of the plug at the first interface has the particular advantage that the plug is accessible in each of the first, second, and third positions. Accessible means that the plug or the first interface is not covered by a safety gate or mounting surface. In addition, the mounting bracket can preferably simultaneously function as a plug retainer. However, it is conceivable that the plug will be connected to the basic unit at some other point.

[0052] According to a further refinement, the plug and / or the mounting bracket comprises an anti-rotation lock configured to rotatably fix the plug relative to the axis of the basic unit in the first outlet.

[0053] An anti-rotation lock has the particular advantage that one or more electrical connections, such as cables, that may electrically connect the plug to the base unit are held in one position and cannot be twisted around the axis of the base unit due to unwanted rotation of the plug. For example, with the safety gate monitoring module (and particularly the mounting bracket) mounted to a safety gate or mounting surface, the electrical connections may be damaged by multiple rotations of the plug. Thus, an anti-rotation lock has a positive impact on the safety and reliability of the safety gate monitoring module.

[0054] On the other hand, the anti-rotation lock causes the plug to rotate with the mounting bracket when the mounting bracket is rotated from one position to another. In other words, the alignment of the plug relative to the mounting bracket is fixed in the direction of rotation about the axis of the base unit. This is true even when the mounting bracket is rotated from a first position to a third position via a second position, for example.

[0055] The first receptacle of the mounting bracket preferably has an internal contour and the plug has a corresponding external contour, wherein the internal and external contours rotationally secure the plug within the first receptacle relative to the axis of the base unit.

[0056] Particularly preferably, the plug has a plug head with an external contour and the first socket of the mounting bracket has a corresponding internal contour, thereby preventing rotation of the plug about the longitudinal axis of the basic unit.

[0057] The anti-rotation lock preferably also includes a positioning device that allows the plug to be received in the first receptacle of the mounting bracket in only one particular position.

[0058] This has the advantage that the plug is always aligned in the same way relative to the mounting bracket, especially in the first, second and third positions. When the plug is connected to the connecting plug, this refinement has the advantage that the connecting plug can also be positioned in the same orientation relative to the mounting bracket. This is also particularly suitable when the connecting plug can only be connected to the plug when it is specifically aligned relative to the plug. This is also suitable when the connecting plug has certain special requirements and can or should only be aligned in a specific orientation relative to the safety gate or mounting surface.

[0059] For example, the plug may be substantially cylindrical and have a flat cylindrical side, and the first receptacle of the mounting bracket may have a corresponding internal contour.

[0060] According to a further refinement, the plug and / or the mounting bracket comprises second axial fixing means for axially fixing the plug in the first socket along the axis of the basic unit.

[0061] The plug preferably comprises a body having a head, the first receptacle receiving the body of the plug, and the head of the plug latching along the axis of the base unit with a latching element on the mounting bracket.

[0062] The second axial fixing means preferably comprises a thread and a nut, for example the plug has a cylindrical shape with a thread and a nut is screwed onto the thread to fix the plug to the mounting bracket axially along the axis of the basic unit.

[0063] According to a further refinement, the first interface comprises a plurality of second outlets and the second interface comprises a plurality of third outlets, in each case at least one of the plurality of third outlets being aligned with one of the plurality of second outlets of the first interface in the first position, the second position and the third position, and the number of second outlets and the number of third outlets each being configured to receive fastening means for coupling the first interface to the second interface.

[0064] This refinement has the advantage of positioning assistance for the user, meaning that the user is assisted in aligning the mounting bracket with the basic unit in the first position, the second position, and the third position, respectively. This can have a positive impact on the assembly process by indicating the appropriate position to the user in a simple manner and thus reducing the burden on the user regarding assembly considerations.

[0065] Especially 360 around the axis of the basic unit o In the refinement having a recess extending less than 1 / 2 inch, an infinitely variable transition between the first, second and third positions is possible. In particular in this refinement, the second and third receptacles aligned with each other can indicate the first, second and third positions to the user.

[0066] In a preferred refinement, the first interface comprises four second outlets and the second interface comprises four third outlets, the second outlets and the third outlets being arranged at the corner points of a square.

[0067] The fastening means preferably comprise screws. For example, the mounting bracket is fastened to the basic unit using four screws, the first interface comprising four second sockets, and the second interface comprising four third sockets, each of the second sockets and the corresponding third sockets receiving a screw. In other words, the longitudinal axes of the four screws extend parallel to the longitudinal axes of the corresponding second and third sockets, depending on the position. Obviously, this applies to the first, second and third positions; the mounting bracket can only be in one position at a time.

[0068] According to a further refinement, the mounting bracket comprises a mounting side arranged transversely to the second interface of the mounting bracket, the mounting side of the mounting bracket comprising a fourth receptacle adapted to receive a fastening means for fastening the mounting bracket to a mounting surface.

[0069] The fastening means preferably comprises a screw by which the mounting side of the mounting bracket can be secured to the safety gate or mounting surface.

[0070] According to a further refinement, the plug is equipped with a poka-yoke element.

[0071] The poka-yoke element has the advantage that a connection plug can only be connected to the plug with a specific alignment relative to the plug. This has a positive effect on the assembly process, since incorrect assembly can be prevented in this way. Another advantage is that the poka-yoke element can prevent the connection of a connection plug that is not suitable for connection to the safety gate monitoring module.

[0072] As already mentioned at the beginning, another aspect of the invention relates to a safety gate in which the safety gate monitoring module according to the invention is mounted. The design options described above and defined in the dependent claims equally apply to a safety gate comprising a safety gate monitoring module according to the invention.

[0073] The safety gate preferably includes a first portion in which the base unit of the safety gate monitoring module is disposed and a second portion in which the actuator of the safety gate monitoring module is disposed. The two portions of the safety gate are separated from each other when the safety gate is open. Thus, the actuator is placed in the actuator receptacle of the base unit only when the safety gate is closed.

[0074] The first part of the safety gate on which the basic unit is located is preferably a fixed part of the safety gate (e.g., a door frame or door case). Equivalently, the second part of the safety gate on which the actuator is located is preferably a movable door element (e.g., a door leaf). Locating the basic unit on the fixed part of the safety gate has the advantage that the power supply for the part of the safety gate monitoring module attached to the movable part of the safety gate can be omitted, since typically only the basic unit of the safety gate monitoring module requires a power supply.

[0075] As already mentioned at the beginning, a further aspect of the invention relates to a safety gate monitoring module, comprising a safety gate of the kind described above (which includes a safety gate monitoring module according to the invention), an actuator and a control unit.

[0076] It is obvious that the features mentioned above and those to be described below can be used not only in the respective specific combinations but also in other combinations or alone, without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0077] An embodiment of the invention is shown in the drawings and explained in more detail in the following description. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0078] [Figure 1] 1 shows a schematic diagram of a safety gate monitoring system according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2A] 1 shows a perspective view of a safety gate having a safety gate monitoring module according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2B] 2B shows a front view of the safety gate shown in FIG. 2A. [Figure 2C] 2C shows a side view of the safety gate shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B. FIG. [Figure 3] 1 illustrates an exploded view of a safety gate monitoring module according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4]4 shows a perspective view of the safety gate monitoring module shown in FIG. 3. [Figure 5] 5 shows a perspective view of the safety gate monitoring module shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 to illustrate the movement of the mounting bracket. FIG. [Figure 6A] 6 illustrates a perspective view of the safety gate monitoring module shown in FIGS. 3-5 with the mounting bracket in a first position. [Figure 6B] 6 illustrates a perspective view of the safety gate monitoring module shown in FIGS. 3-5 with the mounting bracket in a second position. [Figure 6C] 6 illustrates a perspective view of the safety gate monitoring module shown in FIGS. 3-5 with the mounting bracket in a third position. [Figure 7] 1 shows a perspective view of a mounting bracket according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 8A] 1 illustrates a perspective view of a first interface according to an embodiment of the present invention disposed on a safety gate monitoring module. [Figure 8B] 1 illustrates a perspective view of a first interface according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention disposed on a safety gate monitoring module. [Figure 9] 6 shows a cross-sectional view of the safety gate monitoring module shown in FIGS. 3 to 5. FIG. [Figure 10] 1 is a perspective view of a plug according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 11] 1 shows an exploded view of a mounting bracket and plug according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12A] 10 shows a perspective view of a mounting bracket according to a further embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 12B] 10 shows a perspective view of a mounting bracket according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0079] 1 shows a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a safety gate monitoring system according to the present invention, the safety gate monitoring system being generally designated by the reference numeral 10.

[0080] Here, the safety gate monitoring system 10 includes a robot 12, whose working area is protected with the help of a safety gate 14. A safety gate monitoring module 16 according to the present invention is arranged in the safety gate 14. The safety gate monitoring module 16 comprises a door portion 17 arranged in a movable door element (door leaf) of the safety gate 14 and a frame portion 18 arranged in a fixed second part 20 of the safety gate 14. In the illustrated embodiment, the fixed second part 20 of the safety gate 14 is a door frame or door jamb. In other embodiments, this fixed second part 20 of the safety gate 14 may also be the second door leaf of a two-part safety gate.

[0081] The frame part 18 of the safety gate monitoring module 16 is connected via two lines 22, 24 to a safety switching device 26. The safety switching device 26 is, for example, a safety switching device from the PNOZ® series sold by the applicant of the present invention. It is a multi-channel, redundant safety switching device that is configured to evaluate the output signal of a signaling device such as the safety gate monitoring module 16 and to switch off an electrical load accordingly. In this case, the electrical load is the robot 12. The safety switching device 26 therefore activates contactors 28, 30, whose make contact is arranged in the connection between a power source 32 and the robot 12.

[0082] As an alternative to the safety switching device 26, the safety gate monitoring module 16 could also be connected to a programmable safety controller, such as that sold by the applicant of the present invention under the trademark PSS®. Therefore, the safety switching device 26 will be referred to hereinafter as a whole as the control unit 26 of the safety gate monitoring system 10, without thereby being limited to a particular embodiment of this control unit. Several embodiments of the safety gate monitoring module 16 according to the present invention are described below, where identical or equivalent components are designated by the same reference numerals.

[0083] 2A-2C show various views of an embodiment of a safety gate 14 with an embodiment of a safety gate monitoring module 16 installed. FIG. 2A shows the safety gate 14 in a perspective view and in a closed position. FIG. 2B shows the closed safety gate 14 in a front view, and FIG. 2C shows the closed safety gate 14 in a side view.

[0084] The safety gate monitoring module 16 includes a base unit 34 and an actuator 36 that interacts with the base unit 34. The base unit 34 preferably includes one or more sensors and / or additional electronic components and is therefore preferably connected to a power source. Furthermore, the base unit 34 is preferably connected to the control unit 26 via multi-channel redundant lines, such as lines 22 and 24 herein. Thus, the base unit 34 preferably forms the above-mentioned frame portion 18 of the safety gate monitoring module 16.

[0085] It would also be conceivable, but less preferred, to use the base unit 34 as the door portion 17 of the safety gate monitoring module 16. In such a case, the wiring and power source that would normally be fixed to the control unit 26 would need to be routed to the moving portion of the safety gate 14, and this is typically more complicated than connecting the lines 22, 24 and power source to the fixed portion 20 of the safety gate 14.

[0086] The actuator 36 acts as a counterpart to the basic unit 34 and serves to actuate the basic unit 34. For this purpose, the basic unit 34 is provided with a corresponding actuator socket 38 into which the actuator 36 can be inserted (see Figures 2A to 2C).

[0087] One function of the base unit 34 is to detect whether or not an actuator 36 is inserted into the actuator receptacle 38. For this purpose, the actuator 36 preferably includes an RFID chip that can be read by a detector located in the actuator receptacle 38. The base unit 34 is configured to generate a safety gate signal when the actuator 36 is inserted into the actuator receptacle 38. This safety gate signal is preferably generated as an electrical signal, which may be digital, pulsed, coded and / or other (preferably electrical) signal.

[0088] By evaluating the safety gate signal in the control unit 26, the safety gate monitoring system 10 can unambiguously determine at any time whether the safety gate 14 is closed or not. Depending on this, the robot 12 can be controlled in such a way that it can only operate when the safety gate 14 is closed.

[0089] 2A-2C, the actuator 36 comprises a substantially rod / pin-shaped actuator element 40, which can be inserted into the actuator socket 38. On its end face that is inserted into the actuator socket 38, the actuator element 40 comprises a through-hole (not shown) configured as a locating hole, into which a counter-holder 68, which is arranged in the actuator socket 38 and is provided with a bolt (see FIGS. 3 and 9), can engage in order to hold the actuator 36 in the actuator socket 38, for example during activation of the guard locking function.

[0090] 2A-2C, the actuator element 40 is inserted into the actuator receptacle 38 with the safety gate 14 in a closed position. Of course, the actuator receptacle 38 of the safety gate monitoring module 16 of the present invention is not intended to be limited to receiving a rod / pin-like actuator element 40, but is configured to receive an actuator 36 generally having a suitable actuator element 40, particularly with respect to shape.

[0091] 2A-2C, the safety gate 14 is provided with a handle 42 by means of which a user can open or close the safety gate 14. Here, the safety gate 14 is configured as a pivoting door, but in principle it could also be configured as a sliding door or any other type of separate protective device (e.g., a flap).

[0092] 3 shows an exploded view of a base unit 34 of a safety gate monitoring module 16 having a mounting bracket 46 mountable thereon. The base unit 34 extends along an axis 50, which corresponds here to the central or longitudinal axis of the base unit 34. At a lower end surface 51 extending transversely to the axis 50 (referred to here as the "first end surface"), the base unit 34 includes a first interface 44 (see also FIGS. 5, 8A, and 8B), which interacts with a second interface 48 provided on the mounting bracket 46. The first interface 44 and the second interface 48 are configured to mate with each other.

[0093] The actuator insertion port 38 is rotated from the first direction 52 around the axis 50 at a 90° angle relative to the first direction 52. o From a second direction 54 rotated counterclockwise and at a 90° angle relative to the second direction 54 about the axis 50 o The actuator 36 is configured to receive the actuator 36 from a third direction 56 that is rotated counterclockwise. Thus, the actuator 36 can be inserted into the actuator receptacle 38 from at least three different directions 52, 54, 56. In accordance with a preferred embodiment, this allows the actuator 36 to be inserted into the actuator receptacle 38 from exactly these three different directions 52, 54, 56 (and no other direction). All three of these directions 52, 54, 56 lie in a common plane.

[0094] 3, the actuator 36 may also be inserted into the actuator receptacle 38 from intermediate orientations that are rotated about the axis 50 by less than 90° relative to the directions 52, 54, and 56 and are coplanar with the directions 52, 54, and 56. That is, the actuator 36 may be inserted into the actuator receptacle 38 in a linear and / or rotational motion.

[0095] The base unit 34 further includes one or more optical monitoring indicators 58 that indicate the state of the safety gate monitoring module 16. Additionally, an operator control 60 is provided that allows a user to change the state of the safety gate monitoring module 16, for example, to prevent one or more functions of the safety gate monitoring module 16. For example, the operator control 60 is configured for manual override of the guard locking function of the safety gate monitoring module 16 by unlocking a counter holder or a closure bolt 68.

[0096] 3, the mounting bracket 46 has a substantially L-shaped cross-section. The mounting bracket 46 includes a mounting side 62 disposed transversely, preferably perpendicularly, to the second interface 48 of the mounting bracket 46. The mounting side 62 includes a fourth receptacle 64 configured to receive a fastening means, such as a screw, for fastening the mounting bracket 46 to, for example, the fixed second portion 20 of the safety gate 14.

[0097] The mounting bracket 46 is further configured to receive a plug 66 that is connected to the base unit 34 and may be part of the first interface. The mounting bracket 46 has a first receptacle 70 that receives the plug 66. The plug 66 is configured to connect the base unit 34 to a connecting plug. With the help of the plug 66, the base unit 34 of the safety gate monitoring module 16 can be connected to, for example, the power source 32 and / or the control unit 26.

[0098] The plug 66 is axially fixed to the mounting bracket 46 along the axis 50 by axial fixing means 72 (herein referred to as "second axial fixing means"), which comprise a nut 74 that can be screwed onto an external thread (not shown) provided on the plug 66. Furthermore, the axial fixing means 72 comprises a counter-holder 75 arranged on the mounting bracket 46 for a head 77 of the plug 66 (see Figures 9 and 12A). Thus, in the assembled state, the plug 66 is axially fixed in the first socket 70 of the mounting bracket 46, with the head 77 of the plug 66 being pressed axially against the counter-holder 75 with the help of the nut 74 (see Figure 9).

[0099] The mounting bracket 46 is fixed to the base unit 34 by a plurality of fastening means 76. For this purpose, in this case, the first interface 44 is provided with four receptacles 78 (herein referred to as "second receptacles") (see FIGS. 8A and 8B). The second interface 48 is likewise provided with four receptacles 80 (herein referred to as "third receptacles") (see FIGS. 7, 12A and 12B). The second receptacles 78 and the third receptacles 80 are configured to receive the fastening means 76, which are preferably embodied as screws. When the second receptacles 78 and the third receptacles 80 are aligned with each other, the second receptacles 78 and the third receptacles 80 can jointly receive the fastening means 76, respectively, to fasten the mounting bracket 46 to the base unit 34. In the illustrated embodiment, the second outlet 78 and the third outlet 80 are each configured as through-holes that together form a square hole pattern, i.e., the central axes of the through-holes that form the outlets 78, 80 are located at the corners of a square in plan view.

[0100] In accordance with the present invention, the mounting bracket 46 can be secured to the base unit 34 at various positions, thereby allowing the base unit 34 to be secured in different alignments relative to the fixed second portion 20 of the safety gate 14. The mounting bracket 46 can be coupled to the base unit 34 in a first position (see FIG. 6A), a second position (see FIG. 6B), and a third position (see FIG. 6C).

[0101] 5 shows, by means of arrow 82, a schematic direction of rotation in which mounting bracket 46 can be rotated about axis 50 relative to basic unit 34. Of course, mounting bracket 46 can only be rotated relative to basic unit 34 when fixing means 76 are unlocked.

[0102] 6A shows the mounting bracket 46 in its first position relative to the base unit 34. FIG. 6B shows the mounting bracket 46 in its second position relative to the base unit 34. FIG. 6C shows the mounting bracket 46 in its third position relative to the base unit 34. The second position is 90° clockwise about the axis 50 of the base unit 34 relative to the first position. o The third position is rotated 90° clockwise around the axis 50 of the basic unit 34 relative to the second position. o It is rotated.

[0103] 90° clockwise around the axis 50 of the basic unit 34 relative to the third position. o Coupling of the first interface 44 to the second interface 48 in the rotated fourth position is prevented by a mechanical closure device 90 to avoid misassembly, as described in detail below (see FIGS. 7, 8A, and 8B). In this manner, the mounting bracket 46 can be positioned in exactly three different predetermined positions relative to the base unit 34. The fourth position may be an unfavorable position for the actuator receptacle 38 with respect to receiving the actuator 36, because the actuator 36 cannot or has difficulty engaging the actuator receptacle 38.

[0104] When the mounting bracket 46 is secured in a first position on the base unit 34, the mounting side 62 of the mounting bracket 46 is aligned perpendicular to the first direction 52 (FIG. 6A). On the other hand, when the mounting bracket 46 is secured in a second position on the base unit 34, the mounting side 62 of the mounting bracket 46 is aligned perpendicular to the second direction 54 (FIG. 6B). In a third position, the mounting side 62 of the mounting bracket 46 is aligned perpendicular to the third direction 56 (FIG. 6C).

[0105] In the region of its upper end, the basic unit 34 further comprises a first through-hole 84 and a second through-hole 86 that extends to the first through-hole 84. In a first position of the mounting bracket 46, the first through-hole 84 extends perpendicular to the mounting side 62 (FIG. 6A), in a second position the second through-hole 86 extends perpendicular to the mounting side 62 (FIG. 6B), and in a third position the first through-hole 84 extends perpendicular to the mounting side 62 (FIG. 6C).

[0106] In this way, when the first position of the mounting bracket 46 shown in Figure 6A is selected, the basic unit 34 can be fixed to the fixed second part 20 of the safety gate 14 using a fastening means (e.g. a screw) inserted into the first through-hole 84. The first through-hole 84 then extends parallel to the fourth socket 64 which is provided in the mounting bracket 46 and which is used to fasten the mounting bracket 46 to the fixed second part 20 of the safety gate 14 with the help of a further fastening means (e.g. a screw).

[0107] In the second position of the mounting bracket 46 shown in FIG. 6B, the second through-hole 86 extends parallel to the fourth socket 64, and therefore the basic unit 34 together with the mounting bracket 46 can then be fixed to the fixed second part 20 of the safety gate 14 by passing a fixing means through the second through-hole 86 and a further fixing means through the fourth socket 64.

[0108] Similarly, when the third position of the mounting bracket 46 shown in FIG. 6C is selected, the basic unit 34, together with the mounting bracket 46, can be fixed to the second fixed part 20 of the safety gate 14 by passing a fixing means through the second through-hole 86 and a further fixing means through the fourth socket 64.

[0109] The basic unit 34 has a first side 112, a second side 114, a third side 116, and a fourth side 118. The first side 112 is located on the left side of the basic unit 34. The second side 114 is located on the rear side of the basic unit 34. The third side 116 is located on the right side of the basic unit 34. The fourth side 118 is located on the front side of the basic unit 34. The first side 112 extends parallel to the third side 116. The second side 114 extends parallel to the fourth side 118 and transversely to the first and third sides 112, 116, respectively.

[0110] In a first position, the mounting side 62 of the mounting bracket 46 is aligned parallel or flush with the first side 112 (FIG. 6A). In a second position, the mounting side 62 of the mounting bracket 46 is aligned parallel or flush with the second side 114 (FIG. 6B). In a third position, the mounting side 62 of the mounting bracket 46 is aligned parallel or flush with the third side 116 (FIG. 6C). As previously mentioned, alignment of the mounting side 62 of the mounting bracket 46 parallel or flush with the fourth side 118 is prevented, in accordance with the present invention, by the mechanical closure device 90.

[0111] The mechanical closure device 90 can be seen particularly in Figures 7, 8A, and 8B. The mechanical closure device 90 comprises a closure element 88 disposed on the second interface 48 of the mounting bracket 46 and at least one recess 89, which functions as a counterpart thereto and is disposed on the first interface 44 of the basic unit 34. The at least one recess 89, 89' receives the mechanical closure element 88 in the first, second, and third positions of the mounting bracket 46, respectively. However, the mechanical closure device 90 prevents the first interface 44 from mating with the second interface 48 in the fourth position.

[0112] 8A and 8B show two different embodiments of a portion of a mechanical closure device 90 provided in the first interface 44 located in the basic unit 34. In the embodiment shown in FIG.

[0113] The recess shown in Figure 8A comprises three spatially separated recesses 89, which are configured to receive a mechanical closure element 88, in each case in a first position, a second position or a third position. For example, to rotate the mounting bracket 46 from the first position to the second position, the mounting bracket 46 must be lifted axially along the axis 50 of the basic unit 34, and then the closure element 88 attached to the mounting bracket 46 can be brought to another position by inserting it into one of two other recesses 89.

[0114] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 8B, the recess 89' extends 360° around the axis 50 of the base unit 34. o34. This preferred embodiment of recess 89' is configured as a recess extending less than 1 / 4" (0.25 mm). This preferred embodiment of recess 89' notably allows mounting bracket 46 to be rotated from one position to another in an infinitely variable manner without having to axially lift mounting bracket 46 along axis 50 of base unit 34 for this purpose. The appropriate position (first position, second position, or third position) is indicated to the user by one of the plurality of second receptacles 78 and the plurality of third receptacles 80 aligned therewith. In this manner, the user can rotate mounting bracket 46 in an infinitely variable manner until the user recognizes the appropriate position based on the aligned second and third receptacles 78, 80.

[0115] 360° around the axis 50 of the basic unit 34 o The recess 89' extending less than 1 / 4 of the length of the plug 66 also prevents the plug 66 from rotating one full turn around the axis 50 of the basic unit 34. This is also particularly advantageous when the plug 66 is connected to the basic unit 34 via an electrical wire 92 that should be protected from being twisted multiple times (see FIG. 9).

[0116] 9, an axial fixing means 94 (herein referred to as the "first axial fixing means") that fixes the mounting bracket 46 to the base unit 34 along the axis 50 is provided 360° around the mounting bracket 46. o34. The first axial fixing means 94 may be particularly suitable in combination with a recess 89' extending less than 1 / 4" of the base unit 34. The first axial fixing means 94 comprises a side wall 96 that is removably arranged on the base unit 34 and has a mechanical closure element 98 (herein referred to as the "second mechanical closure element"), and a receptacle 100 (herein referred to as the "fifth receptacle") arranged on the mounting bracket 46. To attach the mounting bracket 46 to the base unit 34, the side wall 96 can be removed from the housing of the base unit 34. The mounting bracket 46 can then be inserted into the base unit 34, for example together with the plug 66. The removable side wall 96 can then be reattached to the base unit 34 such that the second mechanical closure element 98 arranged on the side wall 96 engages with the receptacle 100 of the mounting bracket 46, fixing the mounting bracket 46 along the axis 50 of the base unit 34. If the position of the mounting bracket 46 is to be subsequently changed, this can be done simply by releasing the fixing means 76 and then rotating the mounting bracket 46 about the axis 50. During rotation, the mounting bracket 46 remains in its axially fixed position, thereby preventing damage to or breakage of the wires 92 in an effective manner.

[0117] 10 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of plug 66. Plug 66 may have a poka-yoke element 102 that is configured to connect plug 66 to a connecting plug (e.g., for connection to power source 32 and / or control unit 26) in only one specific orientation. This poka-yoke element 102 is also often referred to as the coding of plug 66.

[0118] In a manner similar to a poka-yoke element, the positioning device 104 on the plug 66 and the first receptacle 70 on the mounting bracket 46 ensures that the first receptacle 70 can only accept the plug 66 in one specific orientation.

[0119] 10 and 11, the plug 66 is of substantially cylindrical configuration and has a flat cylindrical outer surface 106 that, in the assembled state, rests against a flat stop surface 108 on the mounting bracket 46. The positioning device 104 is thus formed by the flat cylindrical outer surface 106 and the stop surface 108.

[0120] 12A and 12B show two embodiments of the mounting bracket 46. The essential difference between these two embodiments is the way the first receptacle 70 is configured to form an anti-rotation lock 110 that prevents the plug 66 from rotating relative to the mounting bracket 46. In both cases, the first receptacle 70 of the mounting bracket 46 has an internal contour that corresponds to the external contour of the plug head 77, ensuring that the plug 66 is rotatably secured about the axis 50 of the base unit 34.

[0121] In the embodiment shown in Figure 12A, the first receptacle 70 has a hexagonal interior contour formed by six sub-areas. In the embodiment shown in Figure 12B, each individual sub-area is further divided into two sub-sub-areas by recesses 112.

[0122] It should be understood that the illustrated embodiments are merely exemplary embodiments of the safety gate monitoring module 16 of the present invention, intended to illustrate the advantages of the safety gate monitoring module 16 of the present invention. Various modifications can be made to these embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0123] 10 Safety Gate Monitoring System 12. Robot 14 Safety Gate 16 Safety Gate Monitoring Modules 17 Door part 18 Frame part 20 Fixed part 22, 24 lines 26 Control Unit 28, 30 contactor 32 Power Source 34 Basic Unit 36 Actuator 38 Actuator socket 40 Actuator Elements 42 Handle 44 First Interface 46 Mounting bracket 48 Second Interface 50 axes 51 first end face 52 First Direction 54 Second Direction 56 The Third Direction 58 Monitoring Indicators 60 Operator Control Device 62 Mounting side 64 4th Outlet 66 Plug 68 Counter holder 70 First Outlet 72 second axial fixing means 74 Nut 75 Counter Holder 76 Fixing means 77 head 78 Second Outlet 80 Third Outlet 82 Direction of rotation 84 First through hole 86 Second through hole 88 First mechanical closure element 89, 89' recess 90 Mechanical Closure Device 92 lines 94 first axial fixing means 96 Side wall 98 Second mechanical closure element 100 5th Outlet 102 Poka-yoke elements 104 Positioning device 106 Flat outer cylindrical surface 108 Stopping surface 110 Anti-rotation lock 112 First Aspect 114 The Second Aspect 116 The Third Aspect 118 The Fourth Aspect

Claims

1. a safety gate monitoring module (16) for monitoring the status of a safety gate (14), a basic unit (34) for generating a safety gate signal, the basic unit (34) having an actuator receptacle (38) for receiving an actuator (36) and configured to generate a safety gate signal when the actuator (36) is inserted into the actuator receptacle (38) of the basic unit (34), the basic unit (34) having an axis (50) and a first lower end surface (51) disposed transversely to the axis (50) and having a first interface (44); a mounting bracket (46) having a second interface (48) configured to be coupled to the first interface (44) of the base unit (34) in a first position, a second position rotated 90 degrees clockwise about the axis (50) of the base unit (34) relative to the first position, and a third position rotated 90 degrees clockwise about the axis (50) of the base unit (34) relative to the second position; the mounting bracket (46) has a mounting side (62) disposed transversely to the second interface of the mounting bracket (46); the first interface (44) and the second interface (48) are provided with a mechanical closure device (90) configured to prevent coupling of the first interface (44) to the second interface (48) in a fourth position rotated 90 degrees clockwise relative to the third position about the axis (50) of the basic unit (34); the actuator insert (38) is configured to receive the actuator (36) in a first orientation (52), a second orientation (54) rotated 90 degrees counterclockwise relative to the first orientation (52) about the axis (50) of the basic unit (34), and a third orientation (56) rotated 90 degrees counterclockwise relative to the second orientation (54) about the axis (50) of the basic unit (34); the mounting side (62) is perpendicular to the first direction (52) in the first position, the mounting side (62) is perpendicular to the second direction (54) in the second position, and the mounting side (62) is perpendicular to the third direction (56) in the third position.

2. the mechanical closure device (90) comprises a mechanical closure element (88) and recesses (89, 89'), one of the two interfaces comprising the mechanical closure element (88); 2. The safety gate monitoring module (16) of claim 1, wherein the other interface comprises a recess (89, 89') configured to receive the mechanical closure element (88) in each of the first position, the second position, and the third position, and to prevent the fourth position.

3. 3. The safety gate monitoring module (16) of claim 2, wherein the recess (89') is a recess (89') that extends less than 360 degrees around the axis (50) of the base unit (34).

4. 2. The safety gate monitoring module (16) of claim 1, wherein both or one of the basic unit (34) and the mounting bracket (46) are provided with a first axial fixing means (94) for axially fixing the mounting bracket (46) along the axis (50) of the basic unit (34).

5. 5. The safety gate monitoring module (16) of claim 4, wherein the basic unit (34) comprises a removably fixed side wall (96) that includes a portion of the first axial fixing means (94).

6. The basic unit (34) has a first through hole (84) and a second through hole (86) extending perpendicular to the first through hole (84), 2. The safety gate monitoring module (16) of claim 1, wherein the first through hole (84) extends perpendicular to the mounting side (62) at the first position and the third position, and the second through hole (86) extends perpendicular to the mounting side (62) at the second position (84).

7. The basic unit (34) has a first side (112), a second side (114), and a third side (116) disposed substantially transversely to the first lower end surface (51); 2. The safety gate monitoring module (16) of claim 1, wherein the mounting side (62) of the mounting bracket (46) is flush with or parallel to the first side (112) in the first position, flush with or parallel to the second side (114) in the second position, and flush with or parallel to the third side (116) in the third position.

8. 2. The safety gate monitoring module (16) of claim 1, wherein the first interface (44) comprises a plug (66) configured to transmit electrical current and / or electrical signals, and the second interface (48) comprises a first receptacle (70) configured to receive the plug (66).

9. 9. The safety gate monitoring module (16) of claim 8, wherein the plug (66) and / or the mounting bracket (46) have an anti-rotation lock (110) that rotatably secures the plug (66) to the shaft (50) of the basic unit (34) at the first socket (70).

10. 10. The safety gate monitoring module (16) of claim 9, wherein the plug (66) and / or the mounting bracket (46) are provided with second axial fixing means (72) for axially fixing the plug (66) in the first socket (70) along the axis (50) of the basic unit (34).

11. the first interface (44) comprises a plurality of second receptacles (78), and the second interface (48) comprises a plurality of third receptacles (80); at least one of the plurality of third receptacles (80) is aligned with one of the plurality of second receptacles (78) of the first interface (44) in the first position, the second position, and the third position; 2. The safety gate monitoring module (16) of claim 1, wherein the plurality of second receptacles (78) and the plurality of third receptacles (80) are each configured to receive a fastening means (76) for coupling the first interface (44) to the second interface (48).

12. the mounting bracket (46) has a mounting side (62) disposed transversely relative to the second interface (48) of the mounting bracket (46); 2. The safety gate monitoring module (16) of claim 1, wherein the mounting side (62) of the mounting bracket (46) includes a fourth receptacle (64) adapted to receive a fastening means for fastening the mounting bracket (46) to a mounting surface.

13. 9. The safety gate monitoring module (16) of claim 8, wherein the plug (66) comprises a poka-yoke element (102).

14. a safety gate (14) as access to the safety area; a safety gate monitoring module (16) according to any one of claims 1 to 13 for monitoring the state of the safety gate (14); an actuator (36); a control unit (26) configured to read the safety gate signal and to control a machine or system (12) located in the safety area according to the safety gate signal.

Images