Overview of light curtains and muting September 26 2024 | Blog Post, Venus Automation As discussed in our two previous blog posts, safety light curtains from ReeR are an effective and innovative method to protect workers from hazardous environments. Light curtains create 2-dimensional planes of infrared beams that project between an emitter and a receiver. Dependent on the application, ReeR offer light curtains that are programmable, and trigger an output signal when a number of beams – consecutive or random – are obstructed. These output signals can then be used as logic input for safety PLCs and relays, such as controllers offered by Wieland and ReeR. For more detail on the general functionality of safety light curtains, read here.    For more specific applications of light curtains, where combinations of consecutive blocked beams are acceptable and do not pose as a hazard, light curtains need to discern what is permissible and what is not. This is where muting light curtains prove their value. Muting is the automated, partial suspension of light curtain beams. Light curtains, such as ReeR’s SAFEGATE, are offered with integrated muting arms. These muting arms can be oriented in either parallel or crossed patterns, such that obstructions of certain dimension/orientation can be recognised as hazardous or not. Onboard the muting arms are photocells, which project between one another to create a mutable area of the light curtain. The muting arm photocells belong to ReeR’s MICRON family of measurement light curtains, which is better explored here.     Muting will occur when the beams aboard the muting arms are blocked, effectively negating any output by the light curtain. This will allow only certain objects to pass through without triggering the light curtain’s safety output signal.    Depending on the automated process, objects passing through a light curtain may be repeatedly entering and exiting: passing back and forth through a light curtains protected area. Therefore, SAFEGATE muting arms are offered in configurations that for one-way and two-way muting. SAFEGATE light curtains from ReeR are also capable of long-range projection of up to 80 metres. Thus, they prove useful in large-scale industrial operations; safeguarding large spans of manufacturing areas without the need for additional light curtain’s in series.  Muting – Parallel or crossed beam? Muting arms onboard ReeR SAFEGATE light curtains, as mentioned before, are offered in either parallel or crossed beam configurations. These differ in that they require different conditions to trigger a muting cycle. A parallel or sequential arrangement of the muting beams triggers a muting cycle when beams are obstructed in a specific sequence. If you were to place muting beams parallel to each other, each one would need to be blocked one after another for the light curtain to recognise it as requiring muting; and its width would not be a factor in this.  Meanwhile, crossed beam muting configurations will only mute an incoming/outcoming object when both beems are blocked simultaneously. When boxes move along a conveyor, a SAFEGATE light curtain with crossed beam muting could be used discern between correctly and irregularly shaped items on the conveyor. Cross muting beams require simultaneous blocking to mute the safety output of the light curtain, and thus the width of the shape passing through the muting arms then becomes important. That means that misoriented objects (which will have an unacceptable width) will not be muted. Crossed beam muting thus adds an extra constraint to when muting will occur, ensuring accuracy, safety, and reliability of an assembly line.  How Cross Beam Muting Works Video Selecting the right light curtain – safety or measurement? It is very easy to be overwhelmed by the sheer number of models and options for safety light curtain, and measurement light curtain offered by ReeR. Though visually and operationally similar, there are some distinct differences in the specific applications each family of light curtain is best suited to.    Measurement Light Curtain (ReeR MICRON): Measurement light curtains from ReeR are highly versatile light curtains for industrial/manufacturing line measurement applications. They come in a variety of sizes (both length, and resolution) to effectively count and dimension objects that pass through it. In automated systems like conveyors and assembly lines, ReeR MICRON can be hardware/software configured to determine if measurements are within tolerance, objects are aligned and oriented correctly, and differentiate between different items on the line. They are offered in varying current and varying voltage output models, and one final model which has 2 antivalent outputs, and the option for programmability. ReeR MICRON measurement light curtains are NOT safety rated.    General Purpose Safety Light Curtain (ReeR EOS2, EOS4): ReeR’s EOS series of safety light curtain are a prolific and popular option for general purpose safeguarding. They come in a variety of sizes and resolutions for finger, hand and body protection (14, 30, 90mm). Furthermore, they are also offered in multi-beam configurations for access control. The EOS series are compact and straightforward to use, but do not feature any advanced control options such as muting. EOS light curtains are offered in safety categorys of Type 2 and Type 4. Thus, scenarios that call for higher standards of safety are well serviced by EOS safety light curtains.    Safety Light Curtain with Muting (ReeR SAFEGATE): ReeR SAFEGATE light curtains, as discussed in this blog, are highly capable, large scale safety light curtains. They are offered in various, often multibeam resolutions for large scale, industrial automation applications. Three of the four SAFEGATE safety light curtain models come native with integration options for muting. In applications such as conveyor belts, SAFEGATE safety light curtains will differentiate between shapes of acceptable dimensions and orientation. SAFEGATE light curtains have long range capabilities, and are well suited to creating long-distance, safeguarded areas that should not be crossed during machine operation.  Reer safegate light curtain models SAFEGATE S SAFEGATE SM SAFEGATE SMO SAFEGATE SMPO Description The SAFEGATE S series of light curtains from ReeR are a more basic, standard option for safety light curtains with muting. They come standrad with Type 4 SIL 3 safety ratings, and feature the most basic form of muting functions, two-sensor muting. The use of the SAFEGATE S is generally used for straightforward safety requirements, such as guarding dangerous areas and access points.  Specifications Voltage: 24V DC Connectivity: M12 12-pin, M12 5-pin Outputs: 2 Static PNP outputs Protected Height(s): 510-1800

SAFETY & MEASUREMENT light curtains overview SAFETY September 09 2024 | Blog Post, Venus Automation In manufacturing and automated industries, the criticality of worker safety remains prevalent; and machinery that presents as hazardous during operations thus needs to be safeguarded with boundaries put in place. Even at the best of times, an unknowing factory visitor or a simply zoned out operator who has lost focus is all that it takes for an accident to happen. Thus, ‘out-of-bounds’ areas present as crucial in keeping humans safe around machines to upkeep proper procedure, functionality, and efficiency. This is where light curtains from ReeR come into play. Offered in various configurations for a variety of applications, ReeR light curtains think safety even when humans forget to.    Utilising projection of infrared beams (of which the number and spacing is application-dependent), ReeR light curtains work to change output voltage signals which can then be used as logic inputs for safety PLCs and relays. This technology proves its usefulness in guarding humans from hazardous machinery, creating boundaries, guarding perimeters, and creating conditions that would halt machinery if an unusual object (that does not satisfy the light curtain’s conditions) is detected in an assembly line.    In automated processes, precision measurement is required to accurately detect/verify the profile and position of objects. Whether it be counting and sorting the number of different objects passing through an area such as a conveyor belt, or monitoring the levels of materials/pallets, light curtains prove their value. ReeR products such as the MICRON are light curtains with configurations dedicated to precision measurement and monitoring.    Light Curtains and their use in Industry In industrial and automation applications, light curtains provide a critical layer of safety – and can also be used for precise measurement. In safety, light curtains enable a seamless communication between the operator environment, machines, and safety relays. Utilising the projection (transmission) and reception of infrared beams across a plane of beams, the voltage output of a light curtain can be monitored and use as logical input for safety PLCs. Dependening on the configuration of the light curtain, the spacing of the beams can trigger a safety output (halting of operations), for something as small as a finger to something as large as one’s whole body.  Furthermore, measurement light curtains can be used in counting, dimensioning, and automating robots; such as an AGV (automated guided vehicle) using onboard light curtains to measure heights, distances, and widths to determine its next actions. Measurement light curtains are often found in automated, conveyor style machinery as well; where the light curtains can be used to ensure that items passing through its field are counted, positioned, and oriented correctly.  Key overview of REER LIGHT CURTAINS Purpose and Function ReeR light curtains are crucial for ensuring safety and precision in industrial environments. Concerning the safety of the automated environment, a ReeR light curtain can detect objects the size of fingers, hands, or whole bodies. These light curtains can then be placed at out-of-bounds areas that should not be crossed during machinery operating. Upon detecting an object passing through this boundary, light curtains can then signal for machinery to stop – separating humans from hazards.  Light curtains work on the principle of line-of-sight transmission. With one end of the light curtain projecting (emitter) beams across to the other (the receiver). Each beam constitutes the total voltage reading sent by the receiver via a cable, and blocking these cables will change the voltage output. The simplicity of this voltage change facilitates a rapidly available signal for monitoring via safety PLCs; enabling an effectively instantaneous action in response to a beam being blocked.  Applications ReeR light curtains are offered in several varieties. The EOS series light curtains are compact photoelectric sensors, and are used when space is a premium. Often used for machine guarding, EOS light curtains can monitor the upper, middle, and lower sections of a boundary area. EOS light curtains are also offered in a master-slave configuration, and can thus be run in series and span long distances to create large, safeguarded boundaries. Offered in two degrees of safety categorisation, depending on the application, an EOS light curtain is guaranteed to safely work and, should failure come, it will fail safe.  ReeR’s SAFEGATE series are a family of light curtains that can be operated over large distances – up to 80 metres. SAFEGATE light curtains are often used for their muting functions, which use mounted parallel or crossed beams emitted from ‘muting arms’ to permit certain objects through the light curtain without causing a trip signal. SAFEGATE are highly safe, robust light curtains that are offered in programmable variants, allowing for a customisable light curtain using a computer.    ReeR’s ADMIRAL light curtains are larger units reserved for higher-risk environments, making it suitable for demanding industrial settings. Variants of the Admiral are offered with watertight housings and can operate at long distances (depending on the variant, this is 25 or 80 metres). ReeR Admiral variants offer a dual-beam system, making it ideal for outdoor applications and harsh environments – where the dual beams will reduce the sensitivity of the curtain to avoid false-trips due to outdoor elements such as birds, leaves, and inclement weather.  features Muting: ReeR light curtains such as the SAFEGATE SMO include the option for separately sold muting arms. These muting arms work by projecting either parallel or dual-cross beams, and work with the light curtain to permit objects of certain heights and widths to pass through the light curtains without causing a fault/trip.  Safety Compliance: The majority of ReeR light curtains, such as the SAFEGATE, the Admiral, and the EOS4 are offered at a safety level of Category 4 or PL e. Beam Count/Resolution: ReeR light curtains can be fitted with a variety of beams, the spacing of these beams is offered in a variety of resolutions. Resolution is simply the number of beams there are over a given space, and are what determines the size at which an object will be detected by the light curtain. An example of this includes ReeR’s EOS4, which is offered in resolutions (beam spacings) of 14mm, 30mm, and 90mm.    Programming: Products such as ReeR’s SAFEGATE SMPO are fully programmable. They offer an IDE (integrated development environment), called Safegate Configurator – a

Overview of Safety Laser Scanners November 4 2024 | Blog Post, Venus Automation In the world of safety photoelectric scanners, two devices stand out. Safety light curtains, which we have discussed extensively [1] [2] [3], and safety laser scanners, which are to be discussed in this article. As powerful, versatile, and effective as safety light curtains can be, they are still only limited to detecting motion/obstructions in one plane (or two dimensions). They require transmitting/receiving in a straight line. Even with advanced features like muting, which allows for temporary ignoring of safety/control signal due to obstruction, light curtains are always either on, or off. So, what if a machine’s safety system had different degrees of hazards? What if some kind of warning system could be implemented before total machine shutdown? What if a machine needed multiple direction/degrees of protection? This is where safety laser scanners come in. These scanning units are versatile, programmable, and feature many interesting capabilities not shared by safety light curtains. Safety laser scanners, such as the UAM scanner from Hokuyo, project an arc of lasers from a central point, and have a 270 degree field of vision. The UAM scanner features a total of 3 programmable outputs. The innermost field, which can be up to 5 metres in radius, is the distance at which a safety output will occur. The two outermost fields can be up to a total of 20 metres in radius, and act as the two warning areas. What makes laser scanners particularly interesting is what lies in their programmability. While custom radii is helpful, what is even more helpful is that laser scanner protection areas can be drawn into various shapes, sizes, and are not limited to just circular shapes. Using UAM project designer, UAM series safety laser scanners can be programmed, monitored, and customised to the wishes and requirements of the user. Scanners vs light curtains vs safety mats Safety laser scanners are versatile tools in industrial safety, and are commonly called upon in applications where flexible, 2D-area monitoring is required. These scanners are particularly useful in settings where machinery or personnel must be safeguarded across various zones, or can be warned as they approach an imminent hazard. Safety laser scanners are highly flexible, making them a great addition for oddly-shaped hazardous areas. Laser scanners are great for warning zones around robotic arms, automated guided vehicles (AGVs), and complex automated machinery. In contrast, a safety light curtain is ideal for creating physical boundaries that prevent access to specific hazardous zones within manufacturing cells. When it comes to other ground based proximity detection, safety mats such as offerings from ASO are another option to factor in. They are more rigid and simple in design, and will save the tedious task of wiring. Their warning zones – so to speak – are certainly more definite, and the protection area they offer is always rectangular and thus more difficult to customise. When it comes to large areas that require often differing levels of protection, a laser scanner becomes the more affordable and sensible option Laser Scanners Light Curtains Safety Mats Flexibility Highly flexible, suitable for complex zones Best suited for straightforward, linear zones Most affordable for small, rectangular areas Detection Area Wide and configurable 2D-area coverage Limited to a specific barrier or plane Limited to rectangular shapes, but can be used in series to cover larger area Installation Requires strategic placement but fewer units Typically simpler setup in fixed-line protection Extremely simple, 2-wire or 4-wire configurations with end resistors Applications Ideal for AGVs, robotics, and conveyors Effective for guarding machine entry/exit points Effective for guarding fixed areas that are not subject so change Drawbacks Sensitive to environmental interference Limited to straight-line or framed protection Limited to square areas, and can become less cost-effective as the area increases Hokuyo UAM Scanner Protective Capabilities Operational Steps – Setting Up a Hokuyo UAM Scanner 1. Introduction This demonstrative instructional is a generic guide on how to set up a Hokuyo UAM-05LP-T301 Safety Laser Scanner. These configurations will be to control 3 LEDs on a lamp, and a safety contactor. The lamp has a green, orange, and red LED. When nothing is detected, all 3 LEDs will be illuminated. 1 protection zone and 2 warning zones will be configured. Each zone is roughly 15 centimetres long, and of a trapezoidal shape. The innermost zone will control the green LED, along with deenergising the solenoid inside the safety contactor, disconnecting power to any theoretical machinery. The middle warning zone will control the on/off state of the yellow LED, while the outermost warning zone will toggle the red LED. The scanner will be powered by a 24VDC power supply, and in this configuration bypasses any need for a safety relay. For this setup you will need: 1. Jumper wires 2. Small flathead screwdriver 3. A laptop with the Hokuyo UAM Project Designer software (Download Here) 4. A micro USB cable (for programming/upload) 5. Your output devices (we used a 3 colour lamp) 6. A 24 Volts DC power supply 7. A Hokuyo UAM-05LP-T301 Laser Scanner 8. A safety contactor 2. Wiring Configuration A     Colour Signal Function Description AWG Brown +24V DC Power Power Supply: DC 24V 22 Blue 0V DC Power Power Supply: 0V 22 Red OSSD1 Output Protection zone output 1 26 Yellow OSSD2 Output Protection zone output 2 26 Red/Black Warning 1/OSSD3 Output Warning zone output 1/Protection zone output 3 28 Yellow/Black Warning 2/OSSD4 Output Warning zone output 2/Protection zone output 4 28 Purple IN_A Input Area switching input A 28 Grey IN_B/Muting 3 Input Area switching input B/Muting input 3 28 White IN_C/Override 1/ENC1_A Input Area switching input C/Override input 1/Encoder input 1A 28 Pink IN_D/Muting 1/ENC1_B Input Area switching input D/Muting input 1/Encoder input 1B 28 Green IN_E/EDM1 Input Area switching input E/External device monitoring 1 28 Purple/Black IN_A Input Area switching input A 28 Grey/Black IN_B/Muting 4 Input Area switching input B/Muting input 4 28 White/Black IN_C/Override 2/ENC2_A Input Area switching input C invert/Override input 2/Encoder input 2A 28 Pink/Black IN_D/Muting 2/ENC2_B Input Area switching input

Unifying Automation with Wieland Solutions: A Comprehensive Overview September 02 2024 | Blog Post, Venus Automation The Wieland ecosystem offers a comprehensive suite of automation products that work in perfect synergy to drive efficiency, safety, and innovation. From advanced safety relays to intuitive HMI touch panels, the Wieland ecosystem is engineered to ensure seamless communication between all system components, creating an integrated environment where machines and controls operate in unison. This blog highlights the power of Wieland’s automation solutions, showcasing how their diverse range of products—from safety PLCs to expansion modules—are designed to meet the evolving demands of industrial environments. Explore how the Wieland ecosystem enhances operational control, streamlines processes, and prioritizes safety to transform your automation systems into efficient, cohesive units Wieland Safety PLCs SamosPRO Expansion Module Wieland Safety Relay Safety Relay Expansion Module Wieland Touch Panel Wieland Memory Card Wieland Connection Cables Wieland Safety PLCs Wieland Safety PLCs When it comes to safeguarding your automation processes, Wieland’s range of Safety PLCs offers unparalleled reliability and functionality. Designed to handle critical safety functions and integrate seamlessly with other system components, these PLCs are essential for creating a robust and secure automation environment. Wieland samos PRO SP-COP1 The samos PRO SP-COP1 is a crucial component for extending the functionality of the samos® PRO Compact system. This safety controller is equipped with advanced communication capabilities, enabling it to seamlessly integrate with other automation devices and systems. It supports a variety of safety functions, from emergency stops to safety gates, and ensures that these functions are managed efficiently. By incorporating the SP-COP1 into your setup, you enhance the flexibility and scalability of your safety infrastructure. Wieland samos SP-COP2 Safety Controller The samos SP-COP2 is an advanced safety controller designed for more demanding applications. Its high-performance features include expanded I/O options and enhanced diagnostic capabilities, making it suitable for complex safety systems. The SP-COP2 integrates smoothly with existing samos® PRO systems and offers additional functionalities that cater to evolving industrial needs. Its robust design ensures that safety functions are maintained even under challenging conditions, providing peace of mind and reliability. Model Safety Applications Features Supply Voltage Ordering Code SP-COP2-EN-A Safety control, muting Ethernet for Programming only 24VDC R1.190.1210.0 SP-COP2-ENI-A Safety control, muting, monitoring, HMI Industrial Ethernet (Ethernet/IP, Profinet, MODBUS/TCP) 24VDC R1.190.1310.0 SP-COP2-EN-P-A Safety control, muting, presses, analogue input Ethernet, press/analogue library 24VDC R1.190.1230.0 SP-COP2-ENI-P-A Safety control, muting, monitoring, HMI, presses, analogue input Industrial Ethernet, press/analogue library 24VDC R1.190.1330.0 Wieland SP-SDI Series: Input and Output Expansion Modules Enhance safety PLC systems with up to 12 expansion modules for increased inputs/outputs. Explore SP-SDI input module options for samos® PRO safety systems. Expansion modules can be added to existing samos® PRO and samos® PRO compact systems to provide an increased number of safe inputs and outputs for any safety system. A maximum of 12 modules can be connected to the main CPU via the safety bus connections inbuilt into each module. The SP-SDI input module provides more safe inputs into the samos® PRO safety system. Model Product Number Supply Voltage Outputs and Inputs SP-SDI8-P1-K-A R1.190.0050.0 24 VDC 8 Safe Inputs SP-SDI08-P1-K-A R1.190.0030.0 24 VDC 8 Safe Inputs 4 Solid State Outputs Wieland Samos Communication Expansion Modules With the samos® pro gateways, system information can be transferred between the samos® pro safe control and an industrial control, a visualization system, or a PC. All Gateways: Have bidirectional communication Able to transfer 50 bytes of data Have simple configuration with samos PLAN6   Model Product Number Connection Type Supply Voltage Image SP-CANopen R1.190.0210.1 CANopen with extended diagnosis 24 VDC SP-PROFIBUS-DP R1.190.0190.1 PROFIBUS DP with extended diagnosis 24 VDC SP-EN-ETC R1.190.0160.0 ETHERCAT 24 VDC   Wieland SP-SA Series | Safety Analogue Input Expansion Modules Enhance Safety Systems with Analogue Input Expansion Modules for samos® PRO & PRO Compact. Add up to 12 modules for more safe inputs & outputs. Analogue expansion modules can be added to existing samos® PRO and samos® PRO compact systems to provide an increased number of safe inputs and outputs for any safety system. A maximum of 12 modules can be connected to the main CPU via the safety bus connections inbuilt into each module. All SP-SA Modules have: – 4 safe analog inputs – Galvanic isolation – Limits monitoring – Mathematical functions – Scaling   Model Product Number Inputs Supply Voltage Terminals SP-SAR4-A R1.190.1610.0 4 safe RTD Inputs 24 VDC Screw Terminals SP-SAR4-C R1.190.1620.0 4 safe RTD Inputs 24 VDC Push-in Terminals SP-SAC4-A R1.190.1630.0 4 safe 0-20mA Current Inputs 24 VDC Screw Terminals SP-SAC4-C R1.190.1640.0 4 safe 0-20mA Current Inputs 24 VDC Push-in Terminals SP-SACR22-A R1.190.1650.0 2 safe RTD, Inputs 2 safe 0-20mA Current Inputs 24 VDC Screw Terminals SP-SACR22-C R1.190.1660.0 2 safe RTD, Inputs 2 safe 0-20mA Current Inputs 24 VDC Push-in Terminals TIme Delay Relay Two-Hand Safety Relay Standstill Monitoring and Timer Relay Standalone Safety Relay Wieland SNV 4076SL-A | Time Delay Relay Wieland SNV 4076SL-A The SNV 4076SL-A safety relay offers multiple time-delay variations, providing flexible options for safe control in industrial settings. It supports off-delay times of 0-3 seconds, 0-30 seconds, or 0-300 seconds, making it adaptable to different application needs. Additionally, the relay is available in two power configurations: 24 VDC and 115-230 V AC, allowing it to fit into various voltage environments. Included is an option for either a screw terminal with the SNV 4076SL-A or a push-in terminal with the SNV 4076SL-C. Part Number Ordering Code Outputs Terminals Supply Voltage SNV 4076SL-A R1.188.2040.0 3NO+1NC, 3NO Off-delay 0-3 seconds, 230VAC 6A Screw Terminal 24VDC R1.188.2220.0 115 – 230 V AC R1.188.2070.0 3NO+1NC, 3NO Off-delay 0-30 seconds, 230VAC 6A 24VDC R1.188.2250.0 115 – 230 V AC R1.188.2100.0 3NO+1NC, 3NO Off-delay 0-300 seconds, 230VAC 6A 24VDC R1.188.2280.0 115 – 230 V AC SNV 4076SL-C R1.188.2050.0 3NO+1NC, 3NO Off-delay 0-3 seconds, 230VAC 6A Push-in Terminal 24VDC R1.188.2230.0 115 – 230 V AC R1.188.2080.0 3NO+1NC, 3NO Off-delay 0-30 seconds, 230VAC 6A 24VDC R1.188.2260.0 115 – 230 V AC R1.188.2110.0 3NO+1NC, 3NO Off-delay 0-300 seconds, 230VAC 6A 24VDC R1.188.2290.0 115 – 230

A Brief Overview of Safety Relays: June 10 2024 | Blog Post, Venus Automation In the hustle and bustle of industrial workplaces, ensuring the safety of employees is paramount. Accidents can lead to serious injuries, fatalities, and significant downtime. Enter safety relays—specialized devices designed to keep machinery operating safely, creating a secure environment for workers. WHAT ARE SAFETY RELAYS? Safety relays are electromechanical devices that monitor and manage safety-critical inputs and outputs, such as emergency stop buttons and safety sensors. When hazardous conditions are detected, these relays ensure safe responses like stopping machinery. They are essential in various industries including manufacturing, automotive, packaging, and pharmaceuticals. TYPES OF SAFETY RELAYS DUAL CHANNEL SAFETY RELAYS  These safety relays monitor two independent input signals, ensuring redundancy. Both channels must operate correctly for the output to switch, enhancing reliability in safety-critical applications. TIME DELAYED SAFETY RELAYS Featuring adjustable delays, these relays allow for a controlled sequence of operations before activating or deactivating outputs. This is useful when an immediate shutdown could cause damage or additional hazards. FORCE CUIDED SAFETY RELAYS Designed to ensure all contacts in the safety relay switch simultaneously, preventing contact welding or sticking, and enhancing reliability in critical applications. EMERGENCY STOP SAFETY RELAYS Specifically for emergency stop applications, these relays ensure immediate and reliable shutdown of machinery when an emergency stop button is pressed. GUARD MONITORING SAFETY RELAYS These safety relays monitor safety devices like interlock switches or safety gates, ensuring machinery cannot operate when guards are open or bypassed. LIGHT CURTAIN SAFETY RELAYS Interfacing with safety light curtains, these safety relays detect the presence of objects or personnel in hazardous areas, ensuring machinery stops or slows down when the light curtain is interrupted.  These safety relays monitor two independent input signals, ensuring redundancy. Both channels must operate correctly for the output to switch, enhancing reliability in safety-critical applications. Featuring adjustable delays, these relays allow for a controlled sequence of operations before activating or deactivating outputs. This is useful when an immediate shutdown could cause damage or additional hazards. Designed to ensure all contacts in the safety relay switch simultaneously, preventing contact welding or sticking, and enhancing reliability in critical applications. Specifically for emergency stop applications, these relays ensure immediate and reliable shutdown of machinery when an emergency stop button is pressed. These safety relays monitor safety devices like interlock switches or safety gates, ensuring machinery cannot operate when guards are open or bypassed. Interfacing with safety light curtains, these safety relays detect the presence of objects or personnel in hazardous areas, ensuring machinery stops or slows down when the light curtain is interrupted. Wieland SNV 4063KL-A Diagram Time Delay Relays In some cases, an immediate shutdown of machinery could cause damage or create additional hazards. A time delay allows for a controlled and safe shutdown sequence, preventing mechanical damage or product spoilage. Weiland’s SNV 4063KL-A features advanced time delay capabilities with adjustable delays from 0.15 to 3 seconds or 1.5 to 30 seconds, providing the flexibility to customize response times to your specific needs. This ensures your safety measures are precisely tailored to your operations. Wieland SNV 4063KL-A How do safety relays work? Safety relays operate by monitoring inputs from safety devices and evaluating these signals to ensure safe operating conditions. Here’s a breakdown of their functionality: Input Monitoring Signal Evaluation Logic Processing Output Control Continuously monitor signals from safety devices such as emergency stop buttons, guard doors, and light curtains. Assess input signals to determine if operating conditions are safe.  Process input signals using internal logic circuitry to decide if the equipment can operate safely.  If conditions are safe, the relay energizes the output circuitry. If unsafe conditions are detected, it de-energizes the output circuity to stop the machinery.  Continuously monitor signals from safety devices such as emergency stop buttons, guard doors, and light curtains. Assess input signals to determine if operating conditions are safe.  Process input signals using internal logic circuitry to decide if the equipment can operate safely.  If conditions are safe, the relay energizes the output circuitry. If unsafe conditions are detected, it de-energizes the output circuity to stop the machinery.  Safety relays incorporate several advanced features to enhance their effectiveness and reliability. Many safety relays include redundant internal circuits and perform periodic self-checks to ensure proper operation and maintain reliability. They are designed to respond within milliseconds, which helps minimize risks during emergencies. Additionally, advanced relays offer diagnostic features that monitor the status and health of the relay and connected safety devices, aiding in maintenance and troubleshooting. These features collectively ensure that safety relays perform their critical functions reliably and efficiently in industrial environments. practical applications : Safety relays are used in a variety of scenarios to ensure industrial safety. They provide an immediate shutdown of machinery during emergencies through emergency stop functions. For guard monitoring, safety relays ensure that guards or barriers are in place before any operation can proceed. Light curtain monitoring involves detecting personnel or objects in hazardous areas to prevent accidents. Additionally, two-hand control requires the simultaneous operation of two buttons to initiate potentially hazardous actions, ensuring both hands are away from danger and enhancing overall safety. Time – Delayed Safety Relays: In some situations, an immediate shutdown might cause damage or additional hazards. Time-delayed safety relays like Weiland’s SNV 4063KL-A provide customizable delays from 0.15 to 30 seconds, ensuring a controlled and safe shutdown sequence that prevents mechanical damage or product spoilage.   Cutting-Edge Solutions: The DOLD LH 5946 standstill speed monitor is a prime example of innovation in safety relays. It operates without requiring encoder sensors or proximity switches, detecting the standstill of electric motors by measuring the induced EMF. When the EMF approaches zero, it indicates a standstill state and activates the output relay, ensuring safe conditions. conclusion Safety relays are built to withstand industrial environments, providing reliable performance over extended periods. They are easy to install, integrate seamlessly with various safety devices, and comply with international safety standards such as ISO 13849 and IEC 62061. Regular maintenance is essential to keep

Machine guarding overview November 19 2024 | Blog Post, Venus Automation When considering hazardous areas on machines such as crushing/impact, entanglement, laceration, stabbing, and abrasion hazards, it is important to understand two main ways to guard operators from interacting with them. The first option, which we have discussed extensively, are electro-mechanical solutions. These include electrical interlocks, mechanical interlocks, safety switches (both contact, and non-contact), and photoelectric sensors. The second, often more simple solutions lie within permanent and fixed guarding. Permanent machine guarding, as the name would suggest, is an inherent guard built into the design of a hazardous machine. For example, an AC motor has a spinning shaft that is hazardous once it reaches its operating speed. They can pinch, cut (if there are blades/gears), and generally harm operators. To mitigate this, a metal sheet welded onto a machine to form a barrier, or housings between a motor and a gearbox would make the shaft of an AC motor inaccessible when assembled. Permanent guards are integrated into the design and cannot be removed. Generally speaking, the use of  permanent guards in hazardous areas is not feasible if the machinery contains serviceable parts, and thus requires maintenance. This is where fixed guarding becomes valuable. Fixed guards are considered as semi-permanent physical barriers between operators and hazards. They include fencing, tunnel guards, or roller cover guards. If these fixed guards are not interacted with frequently, this form of fixed guarding is sufficient. However, in the case of access doors, panels, gates, and moving guards that allow conditional access to a hazard (it should not open when the machine is running), interlocked guards are required. This blog post will briefly explore some machine guarding options – two fixed, and two interlocked. Fixed Guards – Axelent Fencing Fencing is a crucial form of fixed guarding in the industrial workplace. Fixed guarding through fences and barriers prevent access to hazardous machinery, and prohibit operator-machine interactions during dangerous operations. By creating a physical barrier, fencing ensures that workers maintain are safely distanced from hazards brought about by moving heavy machinery. There are different types of fences, including perimeter fences and distance guards, which are strategically positioned to limit one’s reach into a hazard. Furthermore, horizontal and vertical spacing of mesh is also a factor that is considered by fence guarding designers. Reaching in through a grille, and through square/circular appertures (the gaps in fences) all have acceptable and expected measurements such as the distance from the danger point (safety distance), along with the separation between each line of fencing. Beyond this, fixed guard fencing with access points may also be designed to limit movement from operators so that entry of a limb into a hazardous area is limited. Examples of this would be adding an arm support that extends to joints depending on the angle/range of the hazard. For example, these guards can support up to the knuckle joint, the wrist joint, or the shoulder joint. Fences are often installed based on reach distances—guidelines that determine the minimum safe distance from the hazard based on ergonomic factors and the likelihood of someone attempting to lean over or reach through the fence. Axelent’s X-Guard safety fencing system is a versatile and modular solution designed to meet the latest safety standards, including the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC. This system offers various configurations for effective machine guarding, including mesh panels, posts, and door options (hinged or sliding). It ensures comprehensive perimeter protection, preventing   access to hazardous areas while maintaining visibility and accessibility for maintenance. Additional accessories, like cable trays, enhance functionality and installation efficiency, making X-Guard an adaptable choice for industrial environments. Fixed Guards – Concertina Roller Guards Another option for fixed guarding that presents itself in industry is roller guards. Roller guards are ideal for tight, limited spaces, and are also capable of expanding (and locking in place) and retracting. This enhances the flexibility of these guards, enabling hazardous areas and environmentally sensitive moving parts to be effectively fenced-off from operators. However, since they can retract, Concertina guards do not limit the ability for operators to remove the cover guards to carry out maintenance on any serviceable parts. Commonly used on fitting, turning, and CNC machine tools, Concertina guards are a durable ‘curtain’ type of guard that shield contaminants like dust, debris, and corrosive/caustic liquids from entering sensitive machines and sensors. When rolled up, Concertina guards are compact and low-profile; but can always be expanded into their full size. Typically comprised of a metal (most likely aluminium or steel) housing and coated fabric, Concertina guarding is chemically inert, and resistant to oils, acidic, and basic liquids. The end tabs of each roller are often some form of metal cladding, enabling the guards to be bolted into a desired spot for more permanent guarding, while also providing protection from the edges of the roller fabric from fraying. Enhancing their flexibility even further, Concertina roller guards are made to customer specifications, allowing them to be made to suit whatever measurements and spaces the customer requires. Overall, this form of fixed guarding ensures cleanliness, precision, and safety of machine operation. Concertina roller guards contribute greatly to workplace safety by barring operators from hazardous parts. Machine Guarding: two-hand controls Introduction When fixed guarding is less viable/sufficient to protect workers from hazards, different approaches need to be taken to guard operators in other ways. Not unlike fixed guarding methods, some electro-mechanical safety solutions also aim to inhibit the movement of machine operators. To achieve this, two-hand control systems have been developed. Similar to AND gates in Boolean logic, a two-hand control needs an operator to depress both buttons to enable continuity of power flow. Similar to fencing or roller guards, a two-hand control restricts the movement of an operator to only within a tight radius around the machine. Typical Applications Typical applications for two-hand controls as a form of machine guarding include: Hydraulic presses, punches, and stamping procedures Cutting equipment such as automated shears/guillotines Packaging/clamping/sealing machinery Press brakes and metal bending machinery Injection moulding machines. Two-hand controls are useful when an operator’s involvement is essential to start/stop a machine; enhancing safety by enforcing deliberate engagement from a safe distance. Limitations Limited Hazard Protection: While two-hand controls do ensure that an operator’s hands are kept safe, it is important to understand that

Optimizing Industrial Safety and Efficiency with Advanced Control and Interface Systems June 10 2024 | Blog Post, Venus Automation In the ever-evolving industrial landscape, safety, control, and efficiency are key priorities. Industrial operations demand seamless performance while ensuring the highest safety standards. This is where advanced safety, control, and communication system come into play, acting as the backbone of secure and efficient industrial environments. At the forefront of these solutions is DOLD, a renowned provider of innovative products designed to optimize safety, control, and communication. With a wide range of offerings, from fail-sage control units to insulation monitoring devices and motor brake relays, DOLD products ensure that industrial systems run smoothly and safely. In this blog post, we will dive into several cutting-edge products from DOLD, including solutions for motor control, insulation monitoring, and signal transmission. These products are vital for enhancing safety, improving efficiency, and ensuring reliability across various industrial applications.  Importance of Safety, Control, and Interface Systems In modern industries, ensuring safe and efficient operations is non-negotiable. As machinery and processes become more complex, the need for robust safety and control systems has never been greater. These systems not only prevent accidents and breakdowns but also streamline communication between various components of an industrial setup. Safety systems Designed to detect and respond to failures, ensuring safe shutdowns and preventing potential hazards. Fail-safe control units and safety relays are vital components that act as safety barriers in critical situations  Control systems These systems manage the operation of machinery, including motor control, reversing contactors, and motor brake relays, allowing for precise and safe operation of complex equipment.  Interface system Enable smooth and secure communication between different industrial devices and subsystems, ensuring that signals are transmitted reliably and quickly, minimising the chances of errors Designed to detect and respond to failures, ensuring safe shutdowns and preventing potential hazards. Fail-safe control units and safety relays are vital components that act as safety barriers in critical situations  These systems manage the operation of machinery, including motor control, reversing contactors, and motor brake relays, allowing for precise and safe operation of complex equipment.  Enable smooth and secure communication between different industrial devices and subsystems, ensuring that signals are transmitted reliably and quickly, minimising the chances of errors DOLD products: enhancing safety, control, and communication Safety Systems Control Systems Interface Systems DOLD BH 5911 | Fail-Safe Control Unit The BH 5911 is an essential component in ensuring fail-safe operations. It constantly monitors systems, and in the event of a malfunction, it initiates an immediate, safe shutdowns. This unit is widely used in high-risk environments to protect both personnel and equipment. DOLD BH-5911 DOLD OA 5667 | Safety Relay A key part of industrial safety circuits, the DOLD OA 5667 safety relay ensures that emergency systems like stop buttons or light barriers are effective. In critical situations, this relay reacts instantly, halting operations and preventing accidents. DOLD OA-5667 DOLD RN 5897/020, RN 5897/240, RN 5897/320 | Insulation Monitoring Devices Insulation monitoring is critical for detecting electrical faults before they cause severe damage. The RN 5897 series continuously checks the insulation resistance in ungrounded systems, preventing electrical failures and ensuring safe operation in industrial environments.  DOLD RN 5897/020 DOLD BH 9253 | Reversing contactor Reversing contactors are used in applications where motors need to reverse direction safely and efficiently. The DOLD BH 9253 ensures smooth transitions between forward and reverse operations, reducing wear and tear on the machinery and enhancing operational safety DOLD BH9253 DOLD BI 9034 | Motor Brake Relay The DOLD BI 9034 is crucial in applications where motors must stop quickly, such as conveyor systems. By applying a braking force after the power is cut, this relay ensures that machinery halts safely and without unnecessary wear on the equipment.  DOLD BL 9034 DOLD GI 9014 | Motor Soft Starter Motor soft starters are used to gradually increase power to motors, reducing the mechanical stress on machinery during startup. The DOLD GI 9014 ensures smooth ramp-up of motors, minimizing the wear and tear that occurs during sudden starts.   DOLD GI 9014 DOLD MK 9994 | Lamp Tester Relay A reliable control panel must have fully operational indicator lamps to communicate system status. The  DOLD MK 9994 relay continuously tests control panel lamps, ensuring they function correctly. This is particularly important in preventing miscommunication and keeping the system’s status visible at all times.   DOLD MK9994 DOLD IK 8701 | Input-output Interface Relay This relay ensures smooth communication between various components in an industrial system, managing inputs and outputs reliably. It is particularly important in systems where different machines must work together in harmony. DOLD IK 8701 DOLD OW 5699 | Miniature Power Relay The DOLD OW 5699 miniature power relay is compact yet powerful, used to switch electrical loads in tight spaces. This relay is an integral part of systems that require high reliability in limited spaces, such as control panels or small machinery. DOLD OW 5699 DOLD ZB 6900 | Radio Cable For environments that require wireless communication, the DOLD ZB 6900 provides stable and interference-free radio signal transmission. This cable is essential in ensuring that safety signals and operational instructions are transmitted without delay, enabling secure and efficient operations in industrial settings. DOLD BH 5911 | Fail-Safe Control Unit The BH 5911 is an essential component in ensuring fail-safe operations. It constantly monitors systems, and in the event of a malfunction, it initiates an immediate, safe shutdowns. This unit is widely used in high-risk environments to protect both personnel and equipment. DOLD BH-5911 DOLD OA 5667 | Safety Relay A key part of industrial safety circuits, the DOLD OA 5667 safety relay ensures that emergency systems like stop buttons or light barriers are effective. In critical situations, this relay reacts instantly, halting operations and preventing accidents. DOLD OA-5667 DOLD RN 5897/020, RN 5897/240, RN 5897/320 | Insulation Monitoring Devices Insulation monitoring is critical for detecting electrical faults before they cause severe damage. The RN 5897 series continuously checks the insulation resistance

DSP laser system Overview : August 08 2024 | Blog Post, Venus Automation Safety in industrial workplaces is paramount, encompassing measures and technologies designed to protect workers from accidents and injuries. Key aspects include the implementation of safety protocols, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and integration of advanced safety systems. The DSP Laser System exemplifies such safety technology, offering precise monitoring of hazardous zones around machinery.    By utilising laser beams to create a detection area, the DSP Laser System can instantly stop machinery if an intrusion is detected, preventing potential accidents. This system is particularly valuable in metalworking with press-brake machines, where it safeguards operators from injuries caused by inadvertent machine movements. Thus, DSP Laser Systems significantly enhance workplace safety by providing a reliable and immediate response to dangerous situations.   WHAT is the dsp laser system? A DSP (Digital Signal Processing) Laser System refers to a type of laser system that incorporates digital signal processing techniques to enhance its performance and capabilities. These systems are used in various applications such as communications, medical devices, manufacturing, and scientific research. Key overview of the DSP laser system: Purpose and Function The DSP Laser System is designed to improve safety in industrial settings, particularly for press-brake operations. It creates a monitored detection area that stops machine movements upon intrusion, protecting operators. The system includes features like an inhibition function for safe operations and overtravel monitoring, ensuring compliance with safety standards and preventing accidents. Applications The DSP Laser System enhances safety by creating a detection area between the dies of a press-brake, instantly stopping the machine’s dangerous movements if interrupted, thereby protecting operators. It includes an inhibition function that allows the stop signal to be bypassed only when the machine’s closing speed is 10 mm/s or less, preventing accidents during slow movements. Additionally, the system monitors overtravel by interfacing with position detectors, ensuring compliance with safety standards. features The DSP Laser System includes a transmitter and receiver powered by 24Vac or 24Vdc, with an optional DSP LASER AL module. It enhances safety by stopping machine movements if an intrusion is detected in the detection area. The system supports different operating modes for various processing needs and features automatic overtravel monitoring, fault indication via LEDs, and ON/OFF signals from OSSD outputs. It offers multiple power supply options, including modules for 24Vdc and 220Vac or 24Vac. integration DSP technology facilitates the integration of laser systems with other digital and automated systems, enabling advanced automation and control in industrial and scientific settings. The DSP Laser System is designed to improve safety in industrial settings, particularly for press-brake operations. It creates a monitored detection area that stops machine movements upon intrusion, protecting operators. The system includes features like an inhibition function for safe operations and overtravel monitoring, ensuring compliance with safety standards and preventing accidents. The DSP Laser System enhances safety by creating a detection area between the dies of a press-brake, instantly stopping the machine’s dangerous movements if interrupted, thereby protecting operators. It includes an inhibition function that allows the stop signal to be bypassed only when the machine’s closing speed is 10 mm/s or less, preventing accidents during slow movements. Additionally, the system monitors overtravel by interfacing with position detectors, ensuring compliance with safety standards. The DSP Laser System includes a transmitter and receiver powered by 24Vac or 24Vdc, with an optional DSP LASER AL module. It enhances safety by stopping machine movements if an intrusion is detected in the detection area. The system supports different operating modes for various processing needs and features automatic overtravel monitoring, fault indication via LEDs, and ON/OFF signals from OSSD outputs. It offers multiple power supply options, including modules for 24Vdc and 220Vac or 24Vac. DSP technology facilitates the integration of laser systems with other digital and automated systems, enabling advanced automation and control in industrial and scientific settings. operational steps The DSP Laser System package includes a transmitter (TX), receiver (RX), testing and positioning instruments, and an instruction manual, with optional modules such as ALdc, AL1B, and AL2B available. Proper mechanical installation is essential, with the detection area accurately positioned under the upper tool to define the safety intervention limits. Electrical connections require separate wiring for OSSD outputs to ensure redundancy and safety, with modules installed within an electrical board rated at least IP 54. After installation, the system must be adjusted using the provided instruments to correctly set the protection area and verify the OSSD outputs’ functionality. applications and functions Detection Area Inhibition Function Overtravel Monitoring The DSP LASER system creates a detection area between the dies of a press-brake. Any interruption in this area immediately stops the machine’s dangerous movements, ensuring operator safety The system allows inhibition of the stop signal only if the machine’s closing speed is reduced to 10 mm/s or less, preventing accidents during the closing stroke of the press-brake The control circuit can interface with position detectors to monitor overtravel, enhancing compliance with safety standards​ The DSP LASER system creates a detection area between the dies of a press-brake. Any interruption in this area immediately stops the machine’s dangerous movements, ensuring operator safety The system allows inhibition of the stop signal only if the machine’s closing speed is reduced to 10 mm/s or less, preventing accidents during the closing stroke of the press-brake The control circuit can interface with position detectors to monitor overtravel, enhancing compliance with safety standards​   The DSP Laser System provides key benefits including enhanced safety by immediately stopping machine movements upon detecting intrusions, versatile operation modes for different processing needs, and automatic monitoring features that ensure compliance with safety standards. It offers reliable performance with clear fault indicators, and flexible power supply options. Additionally, its easy integration and adjustments make it adaptable to various industrial applications, particularly in metalworking. key benefits of the dsp laser system Precision Control Enhanced Stability Versatility Advanced Features Integration Description: DSP allows for precise control of laser parameters such as pulse width, repetition rate, and power output, leading to improved accuracy and efficiency in applications.. Description: Digital signal processing can enhance the stability and reliability of