Machine Design -- Future Technology Trends
Machine Design -- Future Technology Trends
Joseph J. Lazzara and Tom Knauer, President/CEO and Vice President - Marketing, Scientific Technologies Inc
The evolution of global safety standards, the impact of ever-evolving new technologies, and the desire to improve workplace safety records are major forces that continually drive improvements in integrated machine safety design. What are some of the key future trends in machine safeguarding that significantly impact the machine and automation markets? What will be changing the shape and practices of the machine guarding industry?
0-5 Year Timeframe
More Sophisticated Safety Controllers
We will see the wider adoption and greater sophistication of safety controllers, which includes such devices as safety relay modules, relay-controller hybrids, safety PLCs, and specific function safety controllers, such as a muting controller.
The next step up in the quest for more intelligent safety controls are the relay-controller hybrids, often described as modular controllers. These are simple controllers with relay or electronic-based expansion modules. Programming can be as sophisticated as using PC-based software or as simple as using a screwdriver to set selector switches, depending on the system approach. These hybrids fill the gap between the safety relay modules and the more complex safety PLCs. These products are typically used in mid-range applications, or as subsets in more complex installations.
For installations requiring more demanding programming needs, such as complex machine controllers and configurations, the trend is to use safety-rated PLCs. These devices contain the fail-safe software required for critical safety functions and can take direct inputs from most safety products, such as light curtains, emergency stops, and mechanical interlocks. From STI''s perspective, our new safety light curtains and safety mat controllers are available with solid-state outputs. These outputs are very convenient and
Joseph J. Lazzara and Tom Knauer, President/CEO and Vice President - Marketing, Scientific Technologies Inc
The evolution of global safety standards, the impact of ever-evolving new technologies, and the desire to improve workplace safety records are major forces that continually drive improvements in integrated machine safety design. What are some of the key future trends in machine safeguarding that significantly impact the machine and automation markets? What will be changing the shape and practices of the machine guarding industry?
0-5 Year Timeframe
More Sophisticated Safety Controllers
We will see the wider adoption and greater sophistication of safety controllers, which includes such devices as safety relay modules, relay-controller hybrids, safety PLCs, and specific function safety controllers, such as a muting controller.
The next step up in the quest for more intelligent safety controls are the relay-controller hybrids, often described as modular controllers. These are simple controllers with relay or electronic-based expansion modules. Programming can be as sophisticated as using PC-based software or as simple as using a screwdriver to set selector switches, depending on the system approach. These hybrids fill the gap between the safety relay modules and the more complex safety PLCs. These products are typically used in mid-range applications, or as subsets in more complex installations.
For installations requiring more demanding programming needs, such as complex machine controllers and configurations, the trend is to use safety-rated PLCs. These devices contain the fail-safe software required for critical safety functions and can take direct inputs from most safety products, such as light curtains, emergency stops, and mechanical interlocks. From STI''s perspective, our new safety light curtains and safety mat controllers are available with solid-state outputs. These outputs are very convenient and