Product category:
Machine Safety Monitoring and Control
News Release from: Schmersal UK | Subject: AS-i safety at work
Edited by the Engineeringtalk Editorial
Team on 05 September 2002
Safety devices mount the AS-i fieldbus
Schmersal is claiming a revolution in fieldbus technology with a range of safety equipment that connects directly to the yellow AS-i cable without the need for an intermediate input module.
Schmersal is claiming a revolution in fieldbus technology with a range of safety equipment that connects directly to the yellow AS-i cable without the need for an intermediate input module Explains Schmersal UK general manager Terry Hayward: "The AS range uses embedded chip technology to eliminate the traditional I/O module, making it possible to connect safety components such as emergency stop command devices, safety switches, interlock switches, light curtains and laser scanners directly to the yellow AS-i cable
This article was originally published on Engineeringtalk on 19 Apr 2002 at 8.00am (UK)
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First safety monitor for AS-i Safety at Work bus
Schmersal is the first specialist manufacturer of safety equipment to offer an AS-i safety monitor that allows a wide range of safety components to connect to the AS-i Safety at Work fieldbus system.
Safety devices cut down on wiring
Schmersal UK estimates that companies can save between 20 and 30% on AS-i Safety at Work installations by using its range of AS-i embedded-chip safety devices.
"But we didn't stop there".
He says: "We have also revolutionised the operation of AS interlock switches so that the keys now break light beams instead of mechanical connections".
He adds that both new developments bring additional benefits to AS-i safety at work, including further simplified wiring, increased system reliability and significantly reduced installation costs.
Safety signals for the components are evaluated using the ASM safety monitor launched by Schmersal in June.
The first safety components to be equipped with the integrated AS-i interface are a solenoid interlock switch, interlock switch, magnetic sensor, pull wire emergency stop switch, E-stop station, two-handed control panel and a door handle with integral pushbutton.
Configuration and commissioning of components is easy using Asimon "drag and drop" software and a handheld programming tool.
Says Terry Hayward: "Engineers simply choose the safety device, connect it to the yellow AS-i cable, set the safety function in the safety monitor and that's it.
It really is that easy for new and existing AS-i systems to be expanded to include Schmersal 'Safety at Work' components".
Schmersal AS components are suitable for safety applications up to Control Category 4 to EN954-1 and have been tested and approved by TUV safety standards authorities.
All products correspond to EN50295.
Schmersal says it is also developing the components for other open safety-relevant bus systems.
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