Rockwell Automation Allen-Bradley GuardShield 450L safety light curtain system

The Allen-Bradley GuardShield 450L safety light curtain system, from Rockwell Automation, is said to enhance safety while improving productivity through innovative transceiver technology.

Unlike traditional safety light curtains based on predefined transmitter and receiver units, the system features a transceiver design that employs plug-in modules to establish each unit’s function as a transmitter or receiver. Once powered up, the transceiver learns its functionality from the plug-in module.

Five-pin plug-ins are available for basic on/off functionality, while eight-pin plug-ins provide manual and auto restart with external device monitoring (EDM). To further simplify set-up, advanced function settings are configured through dual in-line package (DIP) switches located on the plug-in module.

The active sensing field and compact design allow users to install the light curtain system inside a machine frame as opposed to outside or on the machine. Additionally, flexible mounting kits and built-in alignment indication allow for quick, trouble-free installation.

Suitable for hand and finger detection, and offered in a wide range of protective heights, the light curtain system is also equipped with an active protective field that senses the entire length of the transceiver. This feature reduces the inactive sensing areas that can appear at the top and bottom of other light curtains.