Eckelmann AG (www.eckelmann.de) has extended the configurable safety system E°SLC with a CAN fieldbus coupler (CANopen) to create convenient options for integration and communication – the fieldbus connection. Unlike traditional coupling through signal inputs, the fieldbus connection allows direct transmission of the safety module’s internal states and complete process image.

Transmitting up to 87 safe signals, the modular safety system eliminates the need for additional wiring, with all safety function information always available at the level of operation and control. Any pre-processed or desired signals can also be configured and transferred to the CAN bus coupler through the drag and drop function of Safeconf, E°SLC’s graphical configuration tool.

The bus coupler allows machine builders to use information from safety circuits in machine visualization and user interfaces as well as to expand fault diagnostic functions without the relatively high costs. Thus, E°SLC is not only vital in implementing modern safety concepts in compliance with IEC 61508 or EN ISO 13849-1, it also allows an organically interlocking system of control technology and function safety (FS) thanks to the support of the robust CANopen standard and straightforward integration into the bus infrastructure.

Well-integrated safety concepts in overall automation ensure optimized productivity of machinery. One of the decisive factors here is the improvement of user-friendliness with, for instance, tools for intelligent fault diagnosis.

Eckelmann’s E°SLC safety module enables users to monitor safety devices at a reduced development expense, including light barriers, emergency off switches, two-hand controls, laser scanners and door contacts.