SafFir : principal operation

Principal operation

The SafFir unit combines highly technological hardware (electronic as well as optical) with sophisticated software. The processor manages the press brake signals and the optical system supervises the area around the tools. The outputs stop the press brake movement before any possible hazard might lead to injury.

The clear optical indications field free, field corrupted, box mode and mute inform the operator about the current operating mode.

At power-up, the system detects the punch-tip. If the ‘self-test’ is successful, the SafFir unit requests the operator to execute an overrun test, as required by international safety regulations. Once this test is performed, the system is ready to be operated. The SafFir unit will ALWAYS allow the press brake to be operated, yet sometimes at slow speed, even if for some reason there's no punch mounted on the beam.

During operation at fast speed, a defined zone around the punch tip is supervised against any intrusion. In case of field corruption, SafFir will immediately stop any movement. A new attempt to close the press brake will proceed either in fast approach (if obstruction is removed) or at slow speed (if the obstruction is still present).

The down-movement of the beam is stopped
when an obstruction is detected