Radar Monitoring for Operators and Machines Safety

Leuze Electronic’s LBK radar system uses algorithms that detect movement in a 3D coverage area, including micro-movements such as the operator’s breathing. Radar technology is particularly useful for those needing a sensor that is not affected by external interference, and whose detections are not subject to discrepancies caused by changes in the environment.

by Michela Zanardo

Leuze Electronic, in partnership with Inxpect, expands its portfolio of safety solutions and presents a preview of the LBK series radar system, certified for safety applications. Safety radar systems adapt to multiple situations in very different environments.
The LBK system is based on a new detection paradigm. The sensor uses proprietary algorithms that detect movement to monitor operators or machinery in a 3D coverage area. This paradigm makes it possible to manage static objects within the scene. People who are immobile are never truly static: the sensor can even detect an operator’s respiratory micro-movements.

The system switches two safety functions

With the ACCESS PROTECTION function, the system monitors the dangerous area. In this case, the safety relays are closed, the sensor sensitivity is lower and static objects are automatically excluded. The detection field can be configured in two different options, 110°/30° or 50°/15°. Furthermore, there are assembly restrictions for installations under one meter in height (only some inclinations are allowed).
Instead, with the RESTART PREVENTION the system scans the area to detect micro-movements. Unlike the other function, the safety relays are open and the sensor sensitivity is extremely high; however, in this case static objects are still automatically excluded. The detection range is fixed and has no options: 110°/ 30°. The reboot mechanism takes ten seconds to be reliable. There are assembly constraints for applications under 30 cm in height.

The radar is more resistant to external interference

The architecture of the LBK system requires that each controller can manage up to 6 LBK-S01 radar sensors. CAN Bus communication is designed in accordance with EN 50325-5, while the system parameters are configured via the Inspect Safety Application. Compared to other technologies, radar technology is much more resistant to environmental disturbances such as smoke, dust, water or scraps generated by production processes. The LBK sensors are suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications and can be positioned up to 3 m in height.