Sick launches modular safety controller
The Sick Flexi Loop is a simple connectivity solution that allows safety and plant design engineers to meet recent regulatory changes.
The device offers new dimensions of scalability, diagnostic insight and I/O connection capacity within a compact space and at a competitive cost. Sick says it is ideal when upgrading automation, robotics and modern manufacturing processes.
With a capacity to cascade up to 32 safety sensors/switches on one loop and to create up to eight separate loops, the IP67-rated Flexi Loop will provide up to 256 sensors on eight dual channel inputs, reducing the clutter of traditional connections. The device is simple to install as a fully cascadable system, using standard cable with M12/5-pin connectors. No special connections or shielded cables are required.
The Flexi Loop provides intelligent built-in diagnostics without the need for a field bus or complex network addressing, resulting in a decentralised, cost-effective solution for monitoring the status of each safety sensor/switch connected to it. As well as indicating which device has switched, and why, LED indicators on each node give live status information, and avoid referring back to a desk-based control point.
