Inclination sensor certified according to SIL 2 PL/d

STW has prepared the inclination sensors of the SMX.igs-a series for the highest demands on functional safety. The powerful sensors are now also available in versions with SIL 2 / PL d certification. This means they meet the requirements of modern semi-autonomous and fully autonomous systems and machines. 

In the construction industry, agriculture, municipal services, and forestry, the trend is moving toward increasingly automated machines with powerful assistance systems. The goal is to maximize efficiency and productivity, but also to reduce the workload on machine operators. A prerequisite for the development of these machines and devices is the functional safety of the applications. The occurrence of dangerous situations and machine conditions due to malfunctions must be avoided, especially in autonomous processes. Therefore, automation components used in these applications must meet high safety standards. 

STW has had its SMX.igs-a inclination sensors certified by TÜV in comprehensive tests in accordance with EN 61508:2010 up to Safety Integrity Level (SIL) 2 and in accordance with EN ISO 13489-1:2023 up to Performance Level (PL) d. The sensors measure acceleration, rotation rates, and inclination in all three spatial axes. The values recorded in the freely selectable measuring range are output in a safety-compliant manner via a CANopen Safety Interface. The SMX.igs-a thus fits into STW's comprehensive safety portfolio. Almost the entire portfolio of mobile controllers and sensor technology from the automation specialists is SIL 2 / PL d certified. Many components also have additional certification, for example according to ASIL or Ag standards. 

Machine manufacturers with demanding automation applications will benefit from the Kaufbeuren-based company as a supplier that can deliver a wide range of system-critical components from a single source. 

For maximum measurement stability, the SMX.igs-a sensors feature configurable filter algorithms that can factor out disruptive influences such as shocks or vibrations. These include Butterworth and critically damped filters. The compact zinc die-cast housing with two M12 connections allows the sensors to be integrated into even the smallest installation spaces and designs. The sensor is only around 2.5 cm high and has a width and depth of just over 7 cm each. The SMX.igs-a series is primarily used in demanding dynamic applications, such as boom leveling and boom positioning of construction machinery. However, they can also be found in braking systems for agricultural machinery, for example, to detect the slope angle. 

Like all STW components, the inclination sensors are optimized for use in mobile machines and feature the necessary robustness and ECE/E1 approval. With protection classes up to IPX9K and an operating temperature range from -40°C to +85°C, they have been developed for the most challenging operating conditions. 

Integration into the automation system can be carried out by engineers using the user-friendly open-source software platform openSYDE. Configuration dashboards simplify initial access and parameterization of the sensor. Interested machine manufacturers can find out more about the safety-certified SMX.igs-a at Agritechnica in Hanover. STW will be exhibiting in Hall 17, Booth D12, from November 9 to 15.