Machine Safety Tailor-Made!

Safety functions are gradually shifting from the hardware end to software. Let’s dive into possible solutions for this shift with OEM-specific software…

- Tobias Thiesmann

As such, it makes sense for machine builders to work with their safety systems’ suppliers early on while developing new products. Additionally, there are particular benefits to be gained from the use of Original Equipment Manufacturer-specific (OEM) software.

Development objectives in the project planning of protective devices include seamless integration of safety functions into the process, transparency with regard to operating states and minimised installation effort as well as maximum connectivity. The shifting of many safety functions from the hardware to the software, coupled with the use of electronic safety switchgear devices and safety controllers, creates the boundary conditions needed to achieve these objectives.

Individual and not Catalogued

In the event that the particular requirements of an application go beyond the mainstream (and not only then), a customer-specific adaptation of the safety functions can help in optimising the interaction of machine safety and production processes. Schmersal has established a solution path for this, with individual software modules for both programmable safety controllers and parametrizable small safety controllers, as these can be supplied to work with customer-specific software. These customer-specific safety solutions are developed and planned by a project team at Schmersal operating in the ‘Systems and Solutions’ division. Here are some real-life examples:

Compact Controller replaces 13 Relay Modules