Abstract: The invention relates to a method for securing a machine tool comprising a first tool part that carries out work movements in the direction of a second tool part in order thereby to carry out a machining process on a workpiece, wherein an optoelectronic sensor monitors a three-dimensional protected field between the tool parts in that light is transmitted along an open gap formed between the tool parts by means of a transmitter device and is detected by means of a receiver device which includes a matrix of light-sensitive elements, wherein the first tool part is stopped if individual light-sensitive elements or specific groups of the light-sensitive elements do not receive any light. In the method in accordance with the invention, relative positions between individual workpiece areas or measured values related to individual workpiece areas are determined from the signals delivered by the light-sensitive elements.

Abstract: A method for monitoring the surroundings of vehicles, especially driverless transport vehicles, and controlling the vehicle. Objects in the surroundings of the vehicle are monitored with a surface sensor. Data generated by the surface sensor is grouped into monitoring strips that run parallel to the driving direction of the vehicle. A speed relative to the vehicle and parallel to the driving direction is determined for each monitoring strip. The positions of objects relative to the vehicle are determined, and objects are distinguished from each other on the basis of their relative speeds and/or positions. The possible occurrence of a collision of the vehicle with the object is calculated, and a signal is generated and sent to the vehicle for adjusting its speed and/or driving direction so that a collision with the object is prevented. The application also concerns apparatus for practicing the method.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for securing a machine tool comprising a first tool part that carries out work movements in the direction of a second tool part in order thereby to carry out a machining process on a workpiece, wherein an optoelectronic sensor monitors a three-dimensional protected field between the tool parts in that light is transmitted along an open gap formed between the tool parts by means of a transmitter device and is detected by means of a receiver device which includes a matrix of light-sensitive elements, wherein the first tool part is stopped if individual light-sensitive elements or specific groups of the light-sensitive elements do not receive any light. In the method in accordance with the invention, relative positions between individual workpiece areas or measured values related to individual workpiece areas are determined from the signals delivered by the light-sensitive elements.

Abstract: A monitoring apparatus for working machines (16) has a light curtain (11) at the entry side (14) of the working space (13). A rotational scanner (12) is also provided which scans at least the dangerous zone of the working space in a horizontal plane in order to also protect body parts of operators which enter into the working space (13).

Abstract: A safety circuit for a potentially dangerous machine monitored by light and which works in an operating cycle. A safety circuit is described which utilizes a series of relays each of which is switched from an energized to a de-energized condition once during each working cycle of the machine so that each of the relay contact also opens and closes during the working cycle. In this way each relay contact is tested. The relays are so interconnected that if one contact should stick it will interrupt the sequence and will ensure the potentially dangerous machine e.g. a press is rendered inactive. Circuits are given for both hand fed and automatic machines which are monitored by a light barrier or curtain. For the hand fed machine the cycle is initiated by the operator reaching through the light barrier to insert an object into the machine. For an automatically fed machine the test cycle is initiated by a switch automatically activated once per cycle.