When rectifying faults, setting up machines or performing test runs it is sometimes necessary to intervene in procedures when the machine is running, something that could pose a risk to the safety of operating personnel. Activating safety functions such as Safely-Limited Speed (SLS), Safe Direction (SDI) and Safely-Limited Position (SLP) permanently reduces these risks.

With U-One-Safety it is easy to realise motion and position dependent safety functions. New features in comparison with the previous version include a safe position and error switch as well as the latest intrinsically safe absolute encoder interfaces. In addition, the system offers a reliable speed switch as well as optional current or incremental outputs. It is possible to simply and reliably program the respective parameters using the configuration software included in the scope of supply without having to intervene in the higher-level PLC.

With integrated dual channel architecture and internal cross-checking U-One-Safety is well suited for applications up to safety category 3 and Performance Level (PL) d to DIN EN ISO 13849 as well as Safety Integrity Level (SIL) 2 to DIN EN 61508. Certification means it is possible to classify U-One-Safety as a safety component during the safety review required by the standard, something that significantly reduces the burden of assessment.

The modular concept behind the system makes it possible to combine a variety of functions, output signals and interfaces to create the right solution for the respective application. Two different versions are available: the U-One-Safety-Compact to which modules are attached to the basic unit within a compact casing; and the U-One-Safety-LWL that features a basic unit in a robust casing, which is connected to the corresponding modules in the switchboard via fiber optic cable. 

“With U-One-Safety the customer receives all of the functions and interfaces he requires is a single compact device,” explains Thomas Brandenburger head of the project management department.