The ALPHA blocking device
The ALPHA is a fully mechanical interlock blocking device for safeguarded areas.
Easy retrofit installation onto every access door
Completely mechanical (no wiring)
Extracted key function
To illustrate the operation and benefits of the ALPHA interlock blocking device, we share a real-life case study. This application shows how this system provides a cost-effective solution to safety challenges while complying with local regulations. This case study shows how a world leader in contact lenses uses robots more safely and efficiently within their packaging process.
The challenge
The robot cell’s access door has a sensor that detects whether it is open or closed, but it lacks a system to:
(a) keep the door locked.
(b) prevent the door from closing while personnel is inside.
This shortcoming in compliance with local regulations would require a costly machine upgrade.
The solution
It was recommended that the ALPHA be installed. These entrapment guards feature safety keys and blocking plates, which prevent the door from closing while personnel are inside. This solution complies with local regulations and offers a cost-effective alternative to an expensive machine upgrade. Five units have been installed, and the customer is now considering a global implementation of this mechanical solution.
How it works. Step-by-step process.
The challenge
The robot cell’s access door has a sensor that detects whether it is open or closed, but it lacks a system to:
(a) keep the door locked.
(b) prevent the door from closing while personnel is inside.
This shortcoming in compliance with local regulations would require a costly machine upgrade.
The solution
It was recommended that the ALPHA be installed. These entrapment guards feature safety keys and blocking plates, which prevent the door from closing while personnel are inside. This solution complies with local regulations and offers a cost-effective alternative to an expensive machine upgrade. Five units have been installed, and the customer is now considering a global implementation of this mechanical solution.
How it works. Step-by-step process.
Non-contact interlock
Guard is closed and cannot be opened
When the key is present, the metal plate prevents the opening of the guard
Guard blocking plate rotates, allowing operators to open the guard.
The interlock blocking plate driven by rotation prevents the guard from closing
Interlock contacts remain open, preventing unexpected start-up
Door Closed
The ALPHA interlock blocking device ensures the access door cannot be opened until the unique coded safety key is turned and removed. Once the key is extracted, the ALPHA blocks the door from closing, disabling the safety contact of the door switch until the key is reinserted into the lock.
Door Open
The ALPHA allows the door to open only when the safety key is removed. While the operator is inside the safeguarded area with the key, the door remains prevented from closing, and the machine cannot restart, ensuring operational safety.
Besides the ALPHA Interlock blocking device for hinged and sliding doors, we also offer the BRAVO Interlock blocking device, which have been specially developed for applications with light curtains. Do you have any questions or need personal advice? Then feel free to contact us for expert customised support.
The ALPHA interlock blocking device ensures the access door cannot be opened until the unique coded safety key is turned and removed. Once the key is extracted, the ALPHA blocks the door from closing, disabling the safety contact of the door switch until the key is reinserted into the lock.
Door Open
The ALPHA allows the door to open only when the safety key is removed. While the operator is inside the safeguarded area with the key, the door remains prevented from closing, and the machine cannot restart, ensuring operational safety.
Besides the ALPHA Interlock blocking device for hinged and sliding doors, we also offer the BRAVO Interlock blocking device, which have been specially developed for applications with light curtains. Do you have any questions or need personal advice? Then feel free to contact us for expert customised support.
Applied products in this practical example:
ALPHA for hinged doors
Interlock blocking device for different types of hinged doors
ALPHA for sliding doors
Interlock blocking device for different types of sliding doors
BRAVO for light curtains
Interlock blocking device for different types of light curtains
