Whether it’s intralogistics, automotive manufacturing or the packaging industry, optical safety sensors on conveyor lines are often necessary to safeguard material locks against unauthorized access. Previously, muting processes with corresponding sensors were used to clearly identify when transported goods were approaching a protective field and ensure they were transferred at the right moment. Leuze electronic is at this year’s HANNOVER MESSE to unveil its latest Smart Process Gating (SPG) method, which cleverly eliminates the need for signal-emitting sensors.

Conveyor systems that use MLC safety light curtains are more compact, involve lower acquisition costs and wiring outlay, reduce the risk of sensor manipulation and increase overall system availability. Leuze electronic also points out there is no danger of misaligned or damaged sensors and no need to pay for maintenance and servicing. Using the innovative SPG method, the first muting signal comes from the process control (PLC), with the second signal emitted by the protective field itself. Smart Process Gating therefore calls for in-depth process knowledge to ensure the necessary PLC signals are sent exactly within the expected time frame.