Single beam safety light barriers

Single light beam safety devices are safety devices that are used in industrial applications to detect and protect people or objects. They consist of a light source and a receiver that face each other and guide a beam of light between them.

The mode of operation is based on the principle of interrupting the light beam. If the light beam is interrupted, for example by the entry of a person or an object, a signal is sent to the machine or the control mechanism to initiate the appropriate safety measures. This can be, for example, the immediate shutdown of the machine or the activation of a warning.

Single-beam safety light barriers offer a high level of accuracy and reliability, as they are able to detect even the smallest interruptions in the light beam. They are used in a variety of applications, such as in production lines to monitor access to hazardous areas, or in automatic doors to ensure that there are no people in the closing path.

The light barriers can also be combined with other safety devices to create a more comprehensive safety solution. They are available in various sizes and ranges to meet the requirements of different applications.

There are various types of single light beam safety devices, including:

1. Reflection light barriers: These light barriers consist of a transmitter and a receiver, which are positioned opposite each other. The light is emitted by the transmitter and received by the receiver. If the light is interrupted, for example by a person or an object, the light barrier triggers an alarm.

2. Continuous light barriers: These light barriers also consist of a transmitter and a receiver, but they are arranged sideways to each other. The light is transmitted from one transmitter to the other and received by the receiver. If the light is broken, an alarm is triggered.

3. Reflection light barriers with mirror: These light barriers use a mirror to reflect the light back to the receiver. The transmitter and receiver are mounted on the same side and the light is reflected from the transmitter to the mirror and then to the receiver. If the reflected light is interrupted, an alarm is triggered.

4. Infrared light barriers: These light barriers use infrared light, which is invisible to the human eye. They work in a similar way to retro-reflective sensors or through-beam sensors, but use infrared light for transmission.

It is important to note that the exact type of safety light barrier may vary depending on the application and specific requirements.

Single light beam safety devices are often used in various applications to protect people or objects. Here are some examples of their areas of application:

1. Machine safety: Single light beam safety devices are used in industry to monitor and safeguard hazardous areas of machines. For example, they can prevent people from entering hazardous areas while a machine is in operation.

2. Access control: Single light beam safety devices can be used as part of access control systems to monitor access to specific areas. They can be installed in doors or gates, for example, to ensure that only authorized persons have access.

3. Vehicle safety: Single-beam safety light barriers can be used in traffic systems to detect vehicles and control the flow of traffic. They can be installed at traffic lights, for example, to regulate traffic and prevent collisions.

4. Storage and logistics systems: Single light beam safety devices can be used in warehouse and logistics systems to monitor and control the flow of goods. They can be used in conveyor belts, for example, to ensure that objects are not damaged or end up in the wrong place.

5. Automated systems: Single light beam safety devices can be used in automated systems to monitor and control processes. They can be used in robots, for example, to ensure that they do not collide with people or other obstacles.

This list is not exhaustive, as single light beam safety devices can be used in various industries and applications to improve safety and efficiency.

Single light beam safety devices offer various advantages over other safety systems:

1. High reliability: Single light beam safety devices work with a single light source and receiver, which results in a high level of reliability. By monitoring the light beam, any interruption of the beam can be detected, indicating potential hazards.

2. High accuracy: Single light beam safety devices offer high accuracy when detecting obstacles. They can detect the smallest objects or people and deliver precise results.

3. Fast response time: Single light beam safety devices react very quickly to interruptions in the light beam. This allows potential dangers to be recognized immediately and appropriate measures to be taken.

4. Flexibility: Single light beam safety devices can be used in various applications, for example in industry, retail or building security. They can be installed in different locations and therefore offer a flexible solution for different security requirements.

5. Easy installation and maintenance: Single light beam safety devices are generally easy to install and require little maintenance. This simplifies implementation and reduces operating costs.

6. High range: Single light beam safety devices can cover a large area and therefore offer a long range. This means they can be used in applications where extensive monitoring is required.

These advantages make single light beam safety devices an effective solution for protecting people and property in various areas.

Single light beam safety devices are usually installed near hazardous areas to prevent people or objects from entering these areas.

The light barriers are installed in several steps:

1. Site selection: The first step is to choose a suitable location for the light barriers. This should be selected so that it covers the entire danger zone.

2. Mounting the transmitter and receiver units: The light barriers consist of a transmitter and a receiver. The transmitter emits a light beam that is detected by the receiver. The two units must be positioned in a straight line so as not to interrupt the light beam.

3. Alignment: The transmitter and receiver units must be carefully aligned to ensure that the light beam is correctly detected. This can be aligned by visual inspection or by using aids such as lasers.

4. Connection: The transmitter and receiver units must be connected to each other, either by cable or wirelessly. The connection is important to ensure that the two units can communicate correctly.

The maintenance of single light beam safety devices comprises the following steps:

1. Regular cleaning: The light barriers should be cleaned regularly to ensure that the light beam is not affected by dust, dirt or other impurities.

2. Checking the alignment: The alignment of the transmitter and receiver units should be checked regularly to ensure that the light beam is detected correctly.

3. Function check: The functionality of the light barriers should be checked regularly to ensure that they are working properly. This can be done by carrying out tests or by visual inspection.

4. Replacement of defective parts: If parts of the light barriers are defective, they should be replaced to ensure proper functioning.

It is important that the installation and maintenance of single beam safety light barriers is carried out by qualified specialists to ensure correct function and safety.

Single light beam safety devices must meet certain standards and norms in order to be used as safety-relevant components. The most important standards and norms for single light beam safety devices are

1. EN ISO 13849-1: This standard specifies the requirements for the safety functions of machinery and provides a method for assessing safety performance. Single light beam safety devices must meet the requirements of this standard in order to be used as a safety-relevant component in a machine.

2. IEC 61496-1: This standard defines the general requirements for single light beam safety devices and specifies how they can be used in various applications.

3. IEC 61496-2: This standard specifies the requirements for the optical sensors of single light beam safety devices. For example, it specifies which attributes the transmitter and receiver units must have in order to ensure reliable detection of people or objects.

4. IEC 61496-3: This standard defines the requirements for the structural design of single light beam safety devices. For example, it specifies how the light barriers must be mechanically protected to prevent damage or manipulation.

5. EN 62061: This standard describes the requirements for the safety of machine control systems and defines the requirements for the functional safety of single light beam safety devices.

It is important that single beam safety light barriers comply with the above standards and norms to ensure safe use in industrial environments.

Several factors should be taken into account when selecting single light beam safety devices:

1. Area of application: It is important to determine where the light barrier is to be used. Depending on the area of application, different requirements can be placed on the photoelectric sensor, e.g. in industry, warehouses or public areas.

2. Range: The range of the light barrier should correspond to the requirements of the area of application. Check how far the light barrier must cover the area to be monitored and select a light barrier with the appropriate range.

3. Sensitivity: The sensitivity of the light barrier determines how well it reacts to interruptions in the light beam. Depending on the application, it may be necessary to select a photoelectric sensor with high sensitivity in order to detect even small objects.

4. Functionality: Check what additional functions the light barrier offers, e.g. an alarm trigger, a signal strength display or an interface for connecting to other safety systems.

5. Assembly and installation: Check how easy and quick it is to mount and install the light barrier. Pay attention to the required mounting devices and the necessary electrical connections.

6. Environmental conditions: Take into account the ambient conditions in which the light barrier is used. Check whether the light barrier is suitable for indoor or outdoor use and whether it can withstand the specific requirements, such as temperature, humidity or dust.

7. Certifications and standards: Make sure that the light barrier meets the relevant certifications and standards to ensure that it complies with the applicable safety standards.

8. Costs: Compare the prices of different light barriers and make sure that the selected model meets the requirements and offers good value for money.

There are various options for integrating single light beam safety devices into existing safety systems:

1. Connection via relay: The light barrier can be connected to a relay, which is then connected to the safety system. If the light barrier is interrupted, the relay closes the safety circuit and triggers an alarm in the safety system.

2. Connection via a safety controller: Some safety systems have a safety controller that has been specially developed for the integration of safety components such as light barriers. The light barrier is connected to the safety controller and can thus be integrated into the system.

3. Connection via a PLC (programmable logic controller): Another option is to connect the light barrier to the safety system via a PLC. The PLC can then process the signals from the light barrier and trigger corresponding actions in the safety system.

4. Connection via a safety PLC: In some cases, a special safety PLC is used to integrate the single light beam safety device into the safety system. The safety PLC has special safety functions and can process the signals from the light barrier and trigger appropriate safety measures.

It is important that the integration of single light beam safety devices into existing safety systems is carried out by professionals to ensure that all safety standards are met and that the system functions properly.