March 16, 2022 - With the introduction of the deTec4 Smart Box Detection access protection system from SICK , secondary packaging machines in the end-of-line area, top and side loaders, or sorter and ejector modules can now be operated in a safe and user-friendly manner. With the help of a reliable pattern detection logic, Smart Box Detection can safely differentiate rectangular objects, such as boxes, from people and body parts in the inlet and outlet zones of packaging machines or logistics conveying systems. This allows the boxes to be transported continuously without any stops into and out of fenced in machines.
Since the safety solution requires no external process signals or muting sensors, it allows a cost-effective, flexible, compact, and maintenance-optimized machine design while also ensuring maximum operator safety. The Smart Box Detection access protection system is the first intelligent solution of its kind on the market for reliable human-material differentiation. It can detect objects with a rectangular contour and measuring 13 cm or greater in height as they enter the constantly active deTec4 protective field.
An intelligent evaluation of the interrupted light beam ensures a safe differentiation between humans and materials, as people that move over a conveying line or reach into a machine have a fundamentally different geometry and create a significantly different beam interruption pattern. This reliably avoids erroneous safety stops of the conveying equipment. The deTec4 Smart Box Detection safety solution is characterized by its ease of integration. It is integrated directly into the deTec4 safety light curtain as supplementary functionality and requires no additional signals from automation systems or muting sensors during operation. It requires no additional programming, mounting, or wiring effort and can be configured to suit the requirements of numerous applications.
This lean solution design also markedly simplifies maintenance. If objects of different heights and lengths need to be detected in operation, it is not necessary to teach them in or adjust the configuration of the safety solution. This provides a maximum level of versatility and flexibility, while ensuring the highest possible productivity of the system.
