Distributed I/O from safety system

Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team Mar 6, 2006

Safety network controller devices integrate and evaluate any combination of safety input and actuator devices into Devicenet safety networks, using local or remote safety capable inputs and outputs.

Sick has launched a Devicenet-compatible, SIL3-rated safety system that is flexible and expandable and provides distributed network I/O.

Wuth all of the elements for a safety system, users can take advantage of full component synergy and a single source of supply for hardware, services and support.

With its modular design allowing scalability, users can benefit from: reduced installation costs; integration with existing Devicenet networks, if required; the capability to install decentralised safety logic local to the application; and the opportunity to bridge with other control protocols.

Users also have the flexibility to combine safety and non-safety protocols on the same network or keep them completely separate.

Because Sick is supplying all the necessary equipment for a complete safety infrastructure, users can benefits from using a single supplier with better component integration, a single source for spares and upgrades and the support of one dedicated safety expert.

Applications include single-purpose, standalone machines, cell automation and line and plant automation.

Primary applications include packaging machinery, manufacturing production lines, logistics operations, robot cells, machine tools and transfer lines.

Based on a safety controller equipped with onboard safety I/O, Sick's UE4400 safety network controller devices integrate and evaluate any combination of safety input and actuator devices into Devicenet safety networks, using local or remote safety capable inputs and outputs.

Features include central diagnosis capability of the complete application, remote IP67 and IP20 I/O and connectivity with S3000 and CandM4000.

In addition, by using a compact safety controller that enables Devicenet safety, there is no need for a PLC.

System configuration is done using a graphical configuration tool and precertified function blocs and plug-ins are available to allow integration into existing third-party network configuration tools.

Status, diagnostic and error information can be accessed locally or through the network.

Devicenet provides the simplest means of implementing a safety network and integrating it into a wider enterprise network topology.

The safety extension allows safety devices to co-exist with standard control devices on the same network; safety sensors can operate alongside variable speed drives and safety controllers with standard PLCs and proximity switches.

No matter what combination of devices is used, the integrity of the safety control loop cannot be affected by any of the standard control devices.

A key strength of Devicenet is that it can connect safety devices and standard devices on the same network or wire, either with or without the need for a safety PLC.