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Johannes Huebner Giessen Presents the Next Generation of Its Universal Encoder System U-ONE-SAFETY

When rectifying faults, setting up machines or performing test runs it is sometimes necessary to intervene in procedures when the machine is running, something that could pose a risk to the safety of operating personnel. Activating safety functions such as Safely-Limited Speed (SLS), Safe Direction (SDI) and Safely-Limited Position (SLP) permanently reduces these risks to safety.

With U-ONE-SAFETY it is easy to realize motion and position dependent safety functions. New features in comparison with the previous version include a safe position and error switch as well as the latest intrinsically safe absolute encoder interfaces. In addition, the system offers a reliable speed switch as well as optional current or incremental outputs. It is possible to simply and reliably program the respective parameters utilizing the configuration software included in the scope of supply without having to intervene in the higher-level PLC.

With integrated dual channel architecture and internal cross-checking U-ONE- SAFETY is ideally suited for applications up to safety category 3 and Performance Level (PL) d to DIN EN ISO 13849 as well as Safety Integrity Level (SIL) 2 to DIN EN 61508. Certification means it is possible to classify U-ONE-SAFETY as a safety component during the safety review required by the standard, something that significantly reduces the burden of assessment.
The modular concept behind the system makes it possible to combine a variety of functions, output signals and interfaces to create the right solution for the respective application. Two different versions of the system are available: the U-ONE-SAFETY-Compact to which modules are attached to the basic unit within a compact casing; and then there is the U- ONE-SAFETY-LWL that features a basic unit in a robust casing, which is connected to the corresponding modules in the switchboard via fiber optic cable.

"With U-ONE-SAFETY the customer receives all of the functions and interfaces he requires is a single compact device", explains Thomas Brandenburger, head of the project management department.  As a consequence, the U-ONE-SAFETY is suitable for both new systems and upgrade projects.

This device means there is no longer any need for mechanical cam switches, mechanical cam controllers, intermediate or limit switches. Characteristics such as a robust construction, high degree of protection, even when the terminal box is open (thanks to the fully encapsulated base), as well as robust O-ring-seals in the terminal box cover ensure U-ONE-SAFETY is the right solution for deployment in extreme environments prevalent in steel and rolling mills, mining and crane technology.

Moreover, all of the devices offer safe cable entries and extremely high connection flexibility, thanks to the option for cable entry on both sides.


Johannes Huebner Giessen operates in the following fields of industry: steel and rolling mills, mining, container cranes, railway technology, hydroelectric power plants, wind turbine generators and power systems. The company is widely recognized as the industry leader in the fields of measurement, encoder and drive technologies. In more than 80 years Johannes Huebner Giessen has installed several thousand applications in heavy industry. The specialist offers an all-round complete service from determining on-site installation conditions through to installing the complete encoder systems. The company presently employs 100 staff. www.huebner-giessen.com