Schmersal: RSS260 Safety Sensor With New Cost-Saving Features
August 9, 2021
The Schmersal Group has further developed its compact RSS260 safety sensor and equipped it with new software – the sensor now offers four additional, optionally selectable functions:
- – Feedback loop monitoring
- – Automatic restart / manual restart
- – Reset
- – Emergency stop monitoring
On the F0/F1 version, the RSS260 assumes the tasks of a safety relay module, i.e. monitoring of the movable safety guard as well as of the contactors directly actuated by the sensor outputs – monitoring is carried out by the integrated logic in the sensor, rendering a separate evaluation device unnecessary.
On the F0 version, the machine restarts automatically as soon as all safety guards have been closed. An additional ‘enable button’, without edge monitoring, can be switched into the feedback loop. The F0 version is suitable for small machines without a protective space that can be accessed behind.
The F1 version is recommended for smaller systems, where the hazardous area can be accessed by the operator, as it has a reset function. The edge-monitored reset button must be pressed before the machine is restarted – when it is clear that the system is in a safe state and that no one is in the hazardous area. This function is consistent with the ‘manual reset function’ in accordance with EN ISO 13849-1.
The RSS260 with Q function is suitable for machines where the use of an EMERGENCY STOP switch is compulsory. EMERGENCY STOP switching elements integrated into a series circuit can be monitored by the Q function in the last sensor of the chain. This eliminates the need to install a separate safety circuit for the EMERGENCY STOP switches. The EMERGENCY STOP switching elements monitored by the Q function meet the requirements up to PL e. A reset button is required here as well, as no automatic restart of the machine is permitted after an EMERGENCY STOP command has been reset.
‘The additional features of the RSS260 not only make it possible to save on a safety relay module, but they also reduce the wiring and installation effort. What’s more, the Q variant does not require a separate safety circuit for the EMERGENCY STOP,’ explains Uwe Richter, Product Manager for Safety Technology, summarising the benefits of the new software.
Additionally, the RFID safety sensor offers a number of positives, even in the standard version: with its compact dimensions (40 x 18 x 30 mm), the RSS260 with matching sensor-target combination is suitable for mounting on aluminium profiles as well as for use on many other door formats such as the common perspex doors and panels. The sensor has both an AS-i-Safety-at-Work interface and an interface for the Schmersal SD bus. The serial diagnostic function (SD) enables series connection of up to 31 safety sensors and solenoid interlocks, as well as the transmission of non-safe diagnostic and status data for the connected devices.
