The colour makes the difference

By OEM Update Editorial July 12, 2024 12:44 pm IST

Door handle systems should be safe and ergonomic. If they are also easy to install and offer high transparency at the human-machine interface, the user has everything in view and under control.

The comfort, ergonomics, and safety of operating a machine are determined at the safety gate. Every movement and every command should ‘fit’ and ideally be intuitive. The operator should be informed of the current operating status of the machine at all times, and the safety devices should not interfere with the work processes from the operator’s point of view.

The Schmersal range includes various series, systems, and solutions developed specifically for this purpose. These include the AZ201 safety switches and AZM201 solenoid interlocks with integrated door handles and the compatible BDF200 series control panels. Another example is the comprehensive H range of control devices for hygiene-sensitive applications.

New: Door handles with large RGB illumination
Schmersal is expanding its portfolio of control and operating devices with the DHS door handle system, which stands out from all other standard systems for this application. The colour makes the difference: thanks to RGB technology, the robust door handle can be illuminated in seven colours, thus clearly and unmistakably signalling different machine statuses. The user can control these colours individually and assign them to the desired operating status.

The door handle also has a push button, the colour of which the user can specify individually using the push button caps supplied. The push button is used to reset the function or to release the safety gate’s opening function. The programme also includes versions without push buttons and lighting.

‘All inclusive’ brings benefits for machine builders and operators
From the manufacturer’s perspective, the new DHS door handle system offers the advantage that no separate door handles, indicator lights or control devices need to be installed. This saves time during installation, especially if the enclosure or safety gate is made from standard 40 mm profile systems. The operator benefits from the fact that the machine status can be recognised at a glance, and all the necessary operating functions are literally at hand. This is possible because a matching control panel labelled BDF40 has been developed for the DHS door handle system.

From a single mould: a combination of the door handle and control panel
The control panel with four operating/ display elements is characterised by its flat design, which allows it to be easily integrated into the surrounding structure. It is available with or without an emergency stop function and can be seamlessly combined with the DHS door handle system via a connecting element.

Alternatively, the new BDF module can be installed as a stand-alone control panel. The 12-pin M12 connection enables quick and error-free installation, and the optional MS mounting kit ensures high tamper protection.

Important system component: position monitoring of the safety gate
This means that the designer can use the DHS door handle system to map all the operating and display functions required at the safety gate. In addition, the DHS door handle system can be combined with safety switching devices – so that in this combination, the system can also take over the position monitoring of the safety gate and even its interlocking.

Option 1: Combination with a safety sensor
There are two options for position monitoring. The first is a safety sensor from the RSS260 series. The variable mounting position of the actuator allows the safety sensor to be mounted to the left, right or above the door handle. In the F0 and F1 versions, the RSS260 performs the tasks of a safety relay module. This means that monitoring the movable guard and the contactors controlled directly by the sensor outputs is carried out by the logic integrated into the sensor. The advantage: There is no need to use a separate evaluation unit. In the F0 version, the machine is restarted automatically once all the guard doors are closed. However, an additional ‘enable’ button – without edge monitoring – can be connected to the feedback circuit (EDM – External Device Monitoring).

Option 2: Integration of a compact solenoid interlock
If dangerous overtravel movements are to be expected, or if the guard door should not be opened for process protection reasons, the DHS system also offers a solution: the combination with the world’s smallest electronic solenoid interlock, the AZM40. The bistable guard locking principle ensures that the last locking state of the guard locking is maintained in the event of a power failure, and the guard remains locked. Options include emergency unlocking from outside and escape release (from the danger zone). The AZM40 can be easily mounted directly onto 40mm profile systems.

Universal mounting plates are available for other profile system widths, ensuring quick and cost-effective installation of the AZM40 across a wide range of profiles.

Conclusion: A universal system for the safety gate
With the DHS door handle system and the position monitoring and guard locking options that can be combined, the mechanical engineering industry has a new and practical system that covers all the functions of the man-machine interface on the safety gate. Accessories such as locking pliers, mounting plates, escape release, and emergency unlocking round off the programme. The Schmersal Group’s production range will be included immediately after the Hanover Fair. The DHS system is expected to be available in summer 2024.