Globally, AS-Interface is the most widespread interface concept. With its quick-connection technology using flat cable, the concept has simplified automation, and implemented energy, signals, and safety functions on a two-strand cable. This is what makes AS-Interface such a success. The G10 safety module, which is the size of a matchbox, brings an end to expensive wiring. In many cases, reliable signals have been wired in parallel up to the control or switch cabinet. Even if users already use bus-compatible field modules, the G10 safety solution enables a better solution to be implemented with less time and reduced costs. A standard safety module generally does not fit in the cable duct. The module must be secured, and the flat cable must be removed from the cable duct, and re-inserted to allow connection. With the G10 safety concept, this effort is a thing of the past, because with a size of approximately 40 cm x 30 cm x 20 cm, the G10 easily disappears in the cable duct, and does not have to be mounted in any special way. With the direct connection to the cable outlet, you can even save one or two connection lines. Overall, this will result in a typical time saving for mounting of 10 minutes, and a further cost saving for the connection lines of €10. When compared with devices that have an integrated AS-Interface, the G10 safety module still does well because these devices are usually available from only a few providers. It is often the combination of a standard safety switch and a G10 safety module that is the better choice, and this combination is modular because many different safety switches can be connected. Thus the G10 safety module is an extremely flexible and cost-effective solution that can meet the highest safety category PLe.
Devices with an integrated AS-Interface are to some extent less advantageous for another reason, and thus only the second-best solution. The appropriate safety element design may not be available with AS-Interface. With some types, the design is so small that integration of the AS-Interface is not possible in principle. In addition, end customers often specify that machine manufacturers must use specific types and manufacturers, which in this case involves a redesign of the system concept.
This is exactly where the modular concept of the G10 safety module comes into play. This module is currently the smallest solution in IP67, and can be fitted easily in any flat cable duct. Modules can be used to connect all contact-based safety switches directly. The two safety inputs allow redundant safety switches to be connected. The integrated direct connection of the module saves the otherwise necessary connection lines between the flat cable and the end device. The G10 safety module from Pepperl+Fuchs offers a switchable output that can be used to activate both integrated LEDs in the safety switch or external lamps directly. A brilliantly simple solution that has already sparked the interest of many customers.
In addition to the ultra-compact design and the direct connection, the G10 safety module offers even more. The integral housing design makes assembly particularly easy; whereas other safety modules come with a top part and mounting base, screws, or less robust mechanical quick connection technologies made of plastic. With the G10, you simply introduce the flat cable into the extremely robust G10 module, the housing parts of which are connected via a stainless steel swivel axis. Then you just have to shut the housing. A screw provides high contact pressure on the flat cable, ensuring it is sealed securely. The contact pins are not simple stamped parts, the surface of which can oxidize, but round, turned, and gold-plated pins. This enables us to achieve a round, sealing contour with a small contact surface around the pins. This sealing concept enables long-term stable contact with the flat cable and a secure seal.
The safety function - as easy as AS-interface
With our new safety basis controller in the 22.5 mm slim KE4 housing, we offer an unbeatable combination that is particularly ideal for decentralized safety applications with limited space. This intelligent safety basis monitor ensures secure communication along the entire AS-Interface line. The monitor can be connected to the same flat cable safety devices anywhere to monitor the opening of doors, to keep doors securely closed in the process, to integrate emergency stop switches, or switch on light grids, to name just a few typical examples. The logic of the safety technology is easily defined with the PC via software, and then copied to the monitor via USB plug. The monitor has an SD card for data backup and easy device replacement. Using an add-on module, speeds for robots and the like can be monitored. For servicing or in the event of errors, the diagnostics support fast detection of the problem areas with unique color coding.
This KE4 safety basis monitor is best equipped for smaller, decentralized safety solutions. With one bit, you can activate the master function, and connect up to eight safe input signals to the device directly. The two fast, secure semiconductor outputs round off the functionality perfectly. For little money, you can implement a high-performance safety control system, and optimally expand it via AS-Interface.
In addition to innovative products with unique features and many customer benefits, we are happy to support you in safety assessments and project planning up to implementation, because as a leading system provider of AS-Interface, Pepperl+Fuchs offers even more.
Summary
The ultra-compact G10 safety modules create significant benefits for users. These benefits can be seen in technical simplification and cost efficiency. Pepperl+Fuchs has thus set a further milestone, meaning that the AS-Interface safety concept can be used even more effectively in plants and machines.
Where passive safety technology is still provided with safety relays and parallel wiring, in AS-Interface this function has long been replaced by a software-based safety logic at no extra charge. The timer and muting function, the AND/OR gates, and the automatic or manual restart after a safety shutdown can be defined simply by dragging and dropping.
