The trend toward safety networks aboard Ethernet has continued to grow significantly. It is now getting integrated into the control network, and safety devices and safety systems are becoming more compact, easier to program, and, in many cases, more cost-effective.
Integrated safety comes with a number of benefits, many of which are highlighted in the slideshow below. Safety standards can be integrated within the system, including those that validate the system to meet regulations such as the recent European machinery directive. These often require validation that can be programmed into the safety software.
While safety networks have become more complex, they have actually become simpler and easier for plant operators to deploy. The simple user interfaces help to reduce implementation time, thus reducing costs. While the software and networks are easier for the user, they have grown in scale and complexity to include tools such as diagnostics and prognostics.
Machine safety has also seen advances. Safety networks are helping to reduce collisions through the use of electronic safety curtains and virtual safety walls. The machinery is also isolated in its safety pocket so a shutdown due to a break in the safety curtain shuts down the individual machine, not the entire line.
Click the image below to start the slideshow.
Siemens' TIA Portal
Siemens created a Safety Advanced program within its TIA (totally integrated automation) portal. The goal is to help users integrate safety functions into standard automation processes. The safety feature was designed for intuitive operation and quick entry in the generation of fail-safe programs. The library concept was created to simplify the validation of safety-oriented applications. (Source: Siemens)
Looks that way, Apresher. This seems to match a trend I'm seeing in a lot of areas of automation and control. A lot of the complexity is programmed in by the supplier. More and more it seems control technology is plug and play. There seems to be less heavy lifting for the integrator and the plant techs. Devices and systems are getting more complex, while they're getting simpler for the end user.
Absolutely, Rob, integrating safety more closely into the control software solution versus a separate system should produce solutions that are easier to implement and maintain. Needs to be simple and straightforward.
Yes, good points, Apresher. From what I hear, your last point is particularly important. Any implementation that is easy (relatively) and meets standards is looked on favorably. Plants want complex tools that don't require complex programming. Suppliers are getting good at adding complexity to the system without adding complexity for the end user.
A huge key moving forward could be continued innovation with software technologies such as the work being done by ODVA with CIP Safety, PROFIsafe and developments such as openSAFETY. In addition to more powerful solutions, the emphasis on ease of implementation and driving toward more standards could really make a difference in this area.
Yes, the suppliers seem to be way ahead of the game on this. They are very insistent that safety and control can share the same network without compromising safety.
Rob, Below is a link to a recent article from Siemens on the benefits and security implications of using wireless for safety. Not sure how they would answer the specific question you raise, although I suspect that key safety functions are always hard-wired as well. Good question.
Yes, Apresher, I've heard about wireless safety as well. Is the reliability there? If it's safety it's critical, so reliability would have to be assured.
Major automation suppliers already offering integrated software development tools for machine control, motion, HMIs are integrating safety as well. It's part of their one controller, one network mantra. More and more devices such as failsafe motor starters and drives are becoming available. Another trend picking up speed is wireless safety. Especially in warehouses or distribution centers, and in material handling applications such as gantry systems, it is difficult and expensive to do all of the wiring required to integrate the safety systems. Mobile safety panels, using the wireless connection, provides the operator with a safety panel in their hands plus the ability to move around the machine.
Major automation suppliers already offering integrated software development tools for machine control, motion, HMIs are integrating safety as well. It's part of their one controller, one network mantra. More and more devices such as failsafe motor starters and drives are becoming available. Another trend picking up speed is wireless safety. Especially in warehouses or distribution centers, and in material handling applications such as gantry systems, it is difficult and expensive to do all of the wiring required to integrate the safety systems. Mobile safety panels, using the wireless connection, provides the operator with a safety panel in their hands plus the ability to move around the machine.
Yes, that makes sense, Apresher. Are you seeing a greater acceptance of a blended safety and control network? If so, is it being driven by suppliers who are selling the advantages?
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