Rockwell Automation Germany Gmbh & Co Kg

Jan Anslinger

Suresh Ramanujan Nair

Rudolf Papenbreer

Thomas Helpenstein

Norbert Machuletz

Oliver Heckel

Mussa Tohidi Khaniki

An expansion module for an industrial controller is configured to perform independent local processing of its input signals and to independently generate control outputs in parallel with the primary control program executed by the industrial controller. This can reduce or eliminate response latency for time-critical processes that would otherwise be present if all monitoring and control were performed by the industrial controller alone. This approach can be beneficial for configurations in which the industrial devices that are monitored and controlled via the expansion module require fast response times, as in the case of industrial safety applications.

Input signal coordination and method for use with an expansion module

A single-wire safety system architecture yields reliable safety device monitoring without the need for dual redundant signal channels. The safety system comprises a safety relay and one or more compatible safety input devices connected in series with the safety relay via a single-wire communication circuit. A safety signal with a recognizable pulse pattern traverses the single-wire safety circuit to the safety relay via the safety devices. The safety relay opens its contactors and deenergizes its associated industrial equipment if the pulse pattern is not received and recognized. The safety relay can also be configured to initiate a global emergency stop in response to a loss of a safety function by one of its safety input devices, the global emergency stop instructing other safety relays of other safety circuits to open their contactors and enter safe mode.

Global e-stop in an industrial safety system with local and global safety input devices

Growing community of inventors

Wuppertal, Germany

Jan Anslinger