Rockwell Automation GuardShield light curtains bring innovative transceiver technology to safeguard perimeter of robotic work cells and other hazardous equipment.

The rise of robots has ushered in an increased demand for light curtains that provide a safe work environment between the robotic work cells and the rest of the plant. The Allen-Bradley GuardShield 450L safety light curtain system from Rockwell Automation is a flexible, cost-effective solution that enhances safety while improving productivity through innovative transceiver technology.

“Users will see significant advantages throughout the lifecycle of the new light curtain system, but especially during installation and operation,” said Christo Buys, Business Manager – Control Systems, Rockwell Automation, Sub-Saharan Africa.

The Integrated Laser Alignment System (ILAS) of the new GuardShield 450L-E reduces installation time by providing multiple visible laser points that optimise setup with a simple touch of the ILAS symbol on the front window of the stick. Plus, the compact design and full-length protective field make it easy to integrate a GuardShield 450L-E system in hand and finger protection applications from 150 mm up to 1 950 mm in increments of 150 mm.

After start-up, users can leverage advanced features and functionality, including cascading, built-in muting and blanking, to enhance flexibility while maintaining the highest level of safety.

 The advanced muting and blanking functions of the GuardShield 450L-E light curtain are easily set up through DIP switches located on the dedicated plug-in modules. Common muting set ups like 4-sensor or 2-sensor with L- and T-configuration and an override function can be selected, as well as reduced resolution or teach in fixed blanking. A cascading plug-in can also be installed for series connection of additional GuardShield 450L Safety Light Curtain systems, enabling multi-sided machine guarding..

All these special functions combined with the inherent flexibility of the GuardShield 450L transceiver design help to simplify engineering logistics and minimise the stock required to address the full range of applications.