ABB ROBOTICS has released the SafeMove software and electronics based safety controller which is integrated into the IRC5 robot controller.
According to ABB, SafeMove provides safety rated supervision of robot motion. This allows for leaner robot cell solutions and closer partnership between robots and operators.
Cells are made smaller because SafeMove restricts robot motion to precisely what is needed, instead of using mechanical stops. The technology imposes three dimensional safe zones which can be adapted to needs and applications. These zones can be switched on and off for safety.
ABB says the safety functions of SafeMove reduces the need for traditional safety equipment such as light curtains, safety relays, mechanical stops, mechanical position switches, and protective barriers.
Robots usually move at very high speed and can carry very head loads. This has traditionally caused humans and robots to be kept apart by safety fences, roll doors or turntables. SafeMove restricts robot motion, allowing this separation to be relaxed.
According to ABB, this means humans and robots can work closer together, combining human creativity and flexibility with the strength and precision of robots.
SafeMove also has a safe standstill mode, where robot movement is inhibited completely, while all drives remain powered. This mode allows the worker to approach the robot to load a work piece into the gripper and carry out maintenance without switch the motors on and off.
ABB says the safe standstill mode saves cycle time, and reduces wear on the brakes and contactors needed to shut the unit down.
In "safe speed" mode, the robot is allowed to move at a speed that is slow enough to pose no threat to the worker, thus allowing the worker to enter the work cell once a safe speed is achieved. Safe speed can also be used to reduce safety distances and save floor space.