The patent pending PICO-GUARDTM system is a unique combination of control-reliable, non-contacting photoelectric and fiber optic technologies that provide a low-cost alternative to cumbersome and costly methods for machine safeguarding. The fibers can be easily piped to points requiring safeguarding with no electrical wiring required. The controller has four independent optical channels, offering the ability to safeguard multiple points with one controller. The optical elements require no electrical connection and no electrical energy is used at the optical elements - all electronics are at the controller. Optical elements can be used either as emitters or receivers to simplify installation.
PICO-GUARD offers a simpler way to guard doors, openings and dangerous areas, compared with mechanical safety interlock switches. Because PICO-GUARD uses only optical elements, it eliminates electrical contacts and other
failure-prone mechanical components, including manufacturer of actuators that have alignment issues. PICO-GUARD fiber optic safety interlock switches are also several times smaller and several times lighter than mechanical switches.
