Modular Safety Output Module for Flexible Error Checking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing security sensors, such as light curtains, face limitations in flexibility and error checking due to their dependency on the evaluation unit's real-time capability, computing power, and input/output structure, which can impact their fail-safe functionality in safety-relevant applications.
Innovation Solution
A modular output module with independent monitoring and switching elements, capable of error checking and generating safety functions, is introduced. This module is connected to the security device via an interface, allowing for flexible integration with various security devices and enabling error detection and safe state transfer independently of the security device's system design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the evaluation unit directly controls the safe outputs, then the safety device can be integrated into the system, but the safe outputs depend on the evaluation unit's real-time capability, computing power, and input/output structure, reducing flexibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the safety device into separate functional modules: the evaluation unit that processes sensor signals and generates output signals, and the output module that independently controls switching elements and performs error checking. This segmentation allows the output module to be designed independently of the evaluation unit's specific architecture, improving flexibility while maintaining integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The output module acts as an intermediary between the evaluation unit and the external system. It receives output signals from the evaluation unit, performs independent error checking via monitoring modules, and controls switching elements to generate safety functions. This intermediary role decouples the dependency, allowing the safe outputs to be controlled without direct reliance on the evaluation unit's real-time capability and computing power.
2Reliability
If two independent processors are used for error checking, then the fail-safe design is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The output module performs self-service error checking through monitoring modules that are integrated within the same module. Each switching element has an associated monitoring module that checks for errors locally. This self-service approach achieves fail-safe functionality without requiring separate independent processors, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining reliability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the output module is integrated into the safety device, then the system is compact, but the output module cannot be flexibly connected to different safety devices
Solution Approach 1:
The output module is designed as a universal, modular unit that can be connected to different types of safety devices through standardized interfaces. The monitoring modules and switching elements are configured to work with various safety devices without requiring customization, enabling the same output module to serve multiple safety applications and devices.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an arrangement with a safety device (1). The safety device (1) has connection means for connecting an output module (2). The output module (2) has at least one switching element (19, 19') and an associated monitoring module (18, 18'). The monitoring module (18, 18') is configured for fault monitoring of the switching element (19, 19'). The monitoring module (18, 18') is configured to generate a safety function that is output to an external unit via the switching element (19, 19').