Concise description

Safety light curtains - integrated into returns terminals in libraries - guarantee safe operation without any moments of panic.

Task

The Swiss company Trion AG is a global provider of systems for intralogistics in libraries, i.e. for issuing, returning and sorting books and other media. The systems comprise conveyor belts, sorting modules and issuing and returns terminals for inside and outside the library, all of which can be implemented individually. The terminals are fitted with shutters that open when an operator logs on. In order to prevent that the shutter closes while media are being returned or removed, Trion was looking for a suitable solution that could detect hands in the proximity of the shutter. Further requirements included a compact design, an integration-friendly mounting and connection concept, high insensitivity to ambient light and international service availability. SICK was able to provide the appropriate solution, and at the same time dealt with automation functions in other parts of Trion's systems technology.

Implementation

Safety light curtains from SICK eliminate moments of panic when returning books and media

In order to prevent an early closing of the shutters, Trion integrated compact safety light curtains (miniTwin2) from SICK into its terminals. The sensors have a very small design, and their resolution provides perfect finger protection. This means that the light curtains can be integrated without taking up much space or obstructing the user. They are mounted behind the shutters and reliably detect even small children's hands.

Once the customer has logged onto the terminal, the shutter opens so that the book or medium can be returned through the slot. This breaks multiple light beams, thus preventing the shutter from closing too early. The extraordinary insensitivity to ambient light prevents false alarms and guarantees maximum availability. The sensor system is not even affected by the glare of bright daylight. As such, both the returns process and the monitoring function remain unaffected, and the user does not have to panic about the shutter closing too early.

Customer benefits

The light curtain enables reliable monitoring of the shutter function in the library terminals. The concept of a single stick for sender and receiver, together with the use of industry-standard connection technology, reduces Trion's expenses for procurement, warehousing and service logistics. The comprehensive support and quick response to questions are an added bonus. "Markus Bühlmann, our contact at SICK, arrives quickly when we need him, and can almost always offer us a very good solution from the broad range of sensors," confirms Richard Jaworsky, Deputy Head of Production at Trion. "Another advantage is SICK's global presence. Suitable devices are available almost anywhere within a few hours, a service that our end customers value highly." All in all, it's no wonder that Trion also use other SICK sensor systems, such as inductive sensors, compact photoelectric sensors, automation light grids and fiber-optic cable sensors.