Interlock System

This page contains information on the VLF Autoloader's safety loop.
For the door interlock system for the base Trendsetter VLF, see the Trendsetter VLF Door Interlock System page.

Description | Error Messages | Parts

Description

• Disables autoloader components and stops all movement when:
  • the sliding gate on the guard rail is opened
  • the manual bypass gate on the table is lowered
  • the conveyor interface panel is off (or not attached properly)
  • the conveyor is unplugged
• During an unsafe condition, the GENINE 0 board performs an orderly shutdown of all motors. In this state, the workstation reports "Failed to lock the gate. Make sure it is properly closed" or  "Extended Autoloader actuator and stepper motor voltages disabled. Check gate."  This message remains posted until the gate is read as closed.
• When the guard rail gate or the manual bypass table is open, the base Trendsetter VLF is also disabled.

Parts

System Safety Schematic, 73-3657
Safety Loop Block Diagram, 72-3547
Identifying Safety Schemes 

Gate switches and magnets

There are two sets of gate up/down switches. One is for firmware and the other one locks the solenoid valve. If the solenoid switch is locked, it will stay locked even if firmware sends an 'open' command.

Note: Don't touch the mechanical lock/unlock switch! It must always stay in the 'locked' position.

• Gate open switch: part #xx-xxxx
• Gate unlocked sensor: part #xx-xxxx

The guard rail gate and the manual bypass gate are equipped with safety interlock switches to prevent operator injury. Opening either of these gates creates a break in the circuit, preventing the machine from operating. A misadjusted or faulty sensor creates the same condition.

Error messages

[22227] ALE2: Failed to lock the gate. Make sure it is properly closed

1. Check that the table is down.
2. Check that the gate is physically closed.

If firmware reports the gate as open when it is actually closed, the conveyor interface panel is probably not on properly (so that the switches under the panel do not connect).   The picker light may be on as well.