Light Curtain Alternatives

A safety light curtain is an optically driven, invisible method of machine guarding safety light curtains are a form of perimeter access guarding that falls into the category of "presence sensing devices" much like safety mats, photo eyes and safety laser scanners.

Safety light screens use a series of infrared beams to sense the presence of an obstruction, stopping machine movement before the hazard can be accessed. Light curtains are connected to a safety relay or control that communicates to the machine or process being guarded. When a beam on a light curtain is interrupted, a signal is sent through the safety control to the machine to cease operation.

A safety laser (area) scanner is much like a safety light curtain. Safety scanners are an invisible method of machine guarding also used to restrict access. Safety laser scanners are also considered a presence sensing device. The difference of safety laser scanners from safety light curtains is that they send out a fan-shaped beam that detects items that do not belong. Safety laser scanners may be programmed to sense various distances and be set for various resolutions. Safety laser scanners are also connected to a safety relay control.

• Interlocked Barrier Doors reduce footprint of manufacturing cell by locating closer to hazard. Greatly reduces the need for a “safety zone”. May/can apply the same safety distance formula
• Reduces footprint of manufacturing cell by locating closer to hazard. Greatly reduces the need for a “safety zone”
• Rite-Hite Machine Guarding’s Automated Curtains are ideal in applications that require additional space for light curtains because it is also a movable physical barrier that can be locked or programmed to delay opening to allow for machine to de-energize.

• Increases productivity by locating closer to hazard and provides clear visual cue for operator to be on task
• Allows operator to pivot to load and unload parts due to reduced "safety zone" space requirements
• Soft bottom edge enhances safety
• Designed to stand up in the harshest manufacturing applications
• TEFC motors and curtain fabrics designed to withstand application and environmental conditions
• Optional windows allow for continuous monitoring of the process
• Gravity down operation - not powered down