Safety Switch for Robotic Fencing

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Safety Switch for Robotic Fencing

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Safety Switch for Robotic Fencing

A safety fence is used to protect operators from the moving robot. The fence must cover the entire area the robot can reach and be at least 5 feet high. Sometimes, operators need to enter the robot area (called the robot cell) for maintenance or other tasks. For this reason, every safety fence must have at least one entry gate.

 

Entry gates can be a safety concern because they allow access to the area where the robot moves. To address this, every gate must have an access control system, like a safety interlock switch. A safety interlock switch stops the robot when someone enters the area.

At Motion Controls Robotics, the entry gates we install include:

  • A locking gate switch
  • A “Request Access” push button

 

These gates have a locking solenoid and an internal release to ensure no one gets trapped inside the robot area. The switches we use are TUV certified and meet RIA safety standards.

How the Safety Interlock Switch on the Gate Works

Here are the steps the operator follows to enter and leave the robot cell:

  1. The operator presses the Push button for “Request Access”
  2. The illuminated push button starts flashing while the robot stops safely.
  3. Once the robot stops, the button stays lit, and the gate switch unlocks with a click.
  4. The operator can now safely enter the robot cell.
  5. They open the gate using the handle (some gates have a lock-out clasp if needed).
  6. After finishing their task, the operator checks to make sure no one else is inside the robot cell.
  7. The operator exits the cell and fully closes the gate.
  8. They press the “Request Access” button again, locking the gate in place.
  9. The robot restarts smoothly from where it stopped.

Having a safety interlock switch system is essential for two main reasons

  1. Protecting Operators: The gate setup Pizzato Elettrica- Italy is designed to ensure operators are safe when entering the robot cell. The procedure follows a carefully planned sequence to prevent any safety risks that could arise while the operator is inside. This process keeps the operator protected and minimizes the chance of accidents.
  2. Minimizing Robot Downtime: Using a locking gate switch along with a “Request Access” button helps control when the robot system stops. This setup ensures that the system halts at a precise moment, which reduces delays. By doing so, we can avoid disrupting the robot’s ongoing tasks, allowing the operator to enter or exit the safe area without losing valuable time.

Benefits of Interlock Switches

  • Customizable: The switches can be adjusted to meet the specific needs of our customers.
  • Sturdy Design: They come in a durable one-piece metal case.
  • Safety Features: Some configurations include an emergency stop (E-Stop) function.
  • Flexible Wiring Options: Can be hard-wired to a safety relay or managed using Profinet & EtherNet Fieldbus.
  • Easy Installation: Features quick-connect cables for hassle-free setup.