Safety Interlock Operating Module With Integrated Stop-Unlock Logic
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional safety solutions for movable guards in machines require programmable safety controllers, leading to high costs and potential errors, especially in simple systems where complex control tasks are not necessary, and existing solutions do not efficiently stop dangerous machine movements quickly enough.
Innovation Solution
An operating device with integrated safety logic that connects to a safety locking device and a simple safety switching device, eliminating the need for a programmable safety controller, featuring a non-programmable control unit with predefined safety sequences and parameter configuration options, such as DIP switches or NFC, to ensure safe machine operation without complex programming.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a programmable safety controller is used to control the safety interlock and machine shutdown, then the safety function can be implemented, but the system complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the safety control system into separate functional modules: a safety interlock device with its own control unit, a safety switching device, and a machine control unit. Each module performs a specific safety function independently, eliminating the need for a single complex programmable safety controller while maintaining overall system safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a safety switching device as an intermediary component between the safety interlock device and the machine control unit. This intermediary handles the coordination and signal transmission, allowing the safety functions to be distributed across multiple simpler components rather than concentrated in one complex controller.
2Reliability
If a safety controller with waiting time functionality is used to ensure machine standstill, then safety is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit in the safety interlock device is pre-configured with the necessary waiting time logic and standstill verification procedures. This preliminary configuration eliminates the need for complex runtime calculations or external controllers to manage the waiting period, as the safety interlock device itself handles the timing and verification autonomously.
3Device complexity
If simple safety switching devices are used without integrated control logic, then the system is simpler and more cost-effective, but the ability to coordinate safety functions is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The safety switching device is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a simple switching component and as a coordinator for safety functions. It can handle multiple safety signals and coordinate between the safety interlock device and machine control unit, providing the necessary adaptability without requiring a fully programmable controller.
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
An operating device (10) for a safety interlock (108) of a movable separating guard (104) for securing a machine (100) is specified, wherein the operating device (10) has a first operating element (12) for a stop request to the machine (100), a first safe connection (18) for a connection with the safety interlock (108), and a second safe connection (20) for a connection with a safety switching device (120, 100). The operating device (10) is designed as an operating module with an integrated safe control unit (22) which is configured to output a stop request at the second connection (20) and then an unlock command at the first connection (18) when the first operating element (12) is actuated.