Theory of Operation

Multiple safety mats may be wired in series to form a complete floor-level guarding system. Each 4-wire safety mat operates on a low-power DC signal. A signal is transmitted through the upper and lower plates separately via the two wires connected to each plate. The signals through the safety mats are monitored by the safety mat controller.

When the safety mat is not exposed to sufficient actuating force, the signals are unimpaired. The output relays in the controller are energized permitting the guarded machine to run.

When sufficient pressure is applied to the active safety mat area, the conductive plates touch causing the output relays in the controller to de-energize and a stop signal is issued to the machine.

If a wire should break, separate from a plate, or become disconnected from the safety mat controller, the output relays in the safety mat controller will de-energize and a stop signal will be sent. Should the safety mat be punctured and the plates short together in a similar manner as being stepped on, the controller will not restart until the punctured mat is replaced.