Since 2003, the safety solution TwinSAFE has been supporting the integration of safety related functions into the automation system via flexible Bus Terminals. With this new solution, the Safety PLC function is integrated into the PC. The implementation of the TwinSAFE modules into the compact 12mm housing of an electronic terminal allows a flexible integration and extension of safety functions and quite different approach than standard safety systems. With a Safety PLC running on a standard Industrial PC, the performance available for the standard logic is now offered for the safety logic as well. The solution consists of software that is integrated into the TwinCAT system. This software allows safe processing of safety functions. No hardware extension is needed within the PC. That means that every PC can be used as a Safety PLC. For safe communication between the Industrial PC with the Safety PLC and the decentralised TwinSAFE components the Safety over EtherCAT protocol is used.
