No computer required to program the device, saving time

SICK, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of sensors, safety systems and automatic identification products for factory and logistics automation, today announced the launch of its new Intelliface modular safety controller – the UE410 Flexi. The Flexi is a modular safety-rated controller that provides configurable logic without using any software. Users can realize the benefits of integrated safety logic without using a computer to program the device, saving time and simplifying setup.

The Flexi Controller provides a unique solution for safety-relevant applications. Historically, safety logic has been implemented using either hardwire techniques with safety relays, or via more expensive safety programmable logical controllers (safety PLCs). Flexi Controllers take advantage of the benefits of both technologies. Logic is implemented with rotary switches on the front of each module. Logical combinations with multiple modules are easily set based on how the modules are combined.

A visualization tool, the Flexi Configuration Planner, has been developed to help simplify module selection and to understand the logic configuration possibilities associated with the Flexi Controller system.

The Flexi Controller features include:

• Implement logical functions (AND, OR, MUTE, Bypass) without requiring software
• Third-party certified to satisfy control reliability, Category 4 and Safety Integrity Level (SIL) 3 requirements
• Supports more than 50 dual-channel safety sensors in a single system
• Provides diagnostic interfaces for troubleshooting (e.g. DeviceNet, PROFIBUS DP, CANopen; Ethernet - in preparation).
• Replaces two or more conventional safety relays using a single 22.5 mm module
• Reduces interconnect wiring and simplifies system design, implementation and troubleshooting.

Since SICK maintains a network and technology neutral position, it has the ability to provide the right solution that satisfies customers’ application requirements, regardless of which technology they utilize. SICK’s family of safety interfaces now includes safety relays, stand-alone safety controllers and safety network solutions for stand-alone applications, DeviceNet Safety, PROFIsafe and AS-i Safety at Work.