GUIDE FOR PROGRAMMING FIXED BLANKING ON THE F3SG-4RA SERIES

Purpose

To provide a simplified guide for programming fixed blanking

Problem Explanation/Objective

Complicated procedures make it confusing for customers to do fixed blanking.  This should alleviate that.

Supported devices

F3SG-4RA systems

Requirements

F3SG-4RA light curtain

Procedure

Guide for programming Fixed Blanking on the F3SG-RA series

Overview

Fixed Blanking is a function that disables a portion of the F3SG-RA detection zone, allowing objects to remain in that area without triggering a machine stop. This function is useful when stationary objects need to be ignored by the safety system.

Key Considerations before Programming

1. Safety Compliance: Disabling detection in any zone can increase safety risks. Ensure a thorough risk assessment is performed before configuring Fixed Blanking.
2. Restrictions: 
   • The function is not available for the F3SG-RE series.
   • Fixed Blanking cannot be set for all beams or synchronization beams at the same time.
   • The number of zones is limited to three (Fixed Blanking Zone 1 to 3).

Programming Methods

Fixed Blanking can be programmed using:

1. DIP Switch Settings
2. Configuration Tool (SD Manager 2)
3. Teach-in Process

1. Setting Fixed Blanking with DIP Switches

Steps:

1. Power off the F3SG-RA.
2. Set DIP switch positions 5 and 6 to "Fixed Blanking Enabled."
3. Set DIP switch position 8 to "DIP Switch Enabled."
4. Power on the F3SG-RA to apply changes.
5. Verify that the blanking area is properly configured.

Note: Changing settings via the DIP switch may require a power cycle to activate.

2. Setting Fixed Blanking with the Configuration Tool

Using the SD Manager 2 Configuration Tool, users can:

• Manually select beams for Fixed Blanking.
• Enable or disable Fixed Blanking monitoring.
• Configure allowable beams.

Steps:

1. Ensure DIP switch position 8 is set to "Configuration Tool Enabled."
2. Open the SD Manager 2 software.
3. Select the Fixed Blanking zones to disable.
4. Configure allowable beams if needed.
5. Apply settings and verify functionality.

Important Warnings:

• Disabling monitoring in Fixed Blanking zones may result in undetectable areas, violating IEC 61496-2 compliance.
• Any changes should be reviewed by the Responsible Person for safety validation.

3. Setting Fixed Blanking by Teach-in Process

The Teach-in process allows automatic configuration based on objects in the detection area.

Teach-in Steps:

1. Beam Adjustment: Align emitter and receiver beams for synchronization.
2. DIP Switch Configuration: 
   • Set DIP switches 5 and 6 to "Fixed Blanking Enabled."
   • Set DIP switch 8 to "DIP Switch Enabled."
3. Transition to Teach-in Mode: 
   • Press and hold the Push Switch for 3 seconds until "CFG" and "BLANK" indicators start blinking.
4. Teach-in Process: 
   • Block the Fixed Blanking zone with an object.
   • Press the Push Switch again (within 1 second).
   • If successful, the "BLANK" indicator will turn solid ON.
   • If unsuccessful, the "SEQ" indicator will blink (retry from step 3).
5. Restart System: 
   • Press and hold the reset switch for 1 second or cycle the power.

Notes:

• The Fixed Blanking zone is configured to include one additional beam outside the blocked beams.
• Two beams on each end are configured as allowable beams.
• At least three beams must be blocked for a valid configuration.

Fixed Blanking Monitoring Function

• By default, the monitoring function is enabled.
• If any part of a fixed blanking zone is unblocked, the system enters Lockout State for safety.
• If configured as Blanking Zone Cancelled, the system cancels Fixed Blanking upon unblocking.
• Power cycling restores previous settings.

Additional Considerations

• Allowable Beams: If objects in a Fixed Blanking zone may oscillate, enable allowable beams to prevent unnecessary triggers.
• Combination with Other Functions: Fixed Blanking can be used with muting, floating blanking, and warning zones, but with some restrictions.
• Testing after Configuration: Always verify detection using a test rod to ensure safety.

This guide provides a step-by-step approach to configuring Fixed Blanking while maintaining safety compliance. Always consult the full F3SG-R User Manual for detailed instructions and safety precautions.

Date/Revision History

Created on 2-18-2025 rev.A

Author:

RUBEN DE LOS REYES

SENIOR Technical Support Specialist