IDEC Adds Remote Activation to XW1E Emergency Stop Button

IDEC has expanded its emergency stop catalog to include its newest updated switch, the XW1E. The XW1E is a solenoid-assisted emergency stop button that can be pushed manually or activated remotely.

IDEC’s XW1E emergency stop button now includes a remotely commanded e-stop feature. Image courtesy of IDEC

IDEC’s XW1E Assisted Emergency Stop Switch

The XW1E assisted e-stop features standard e-stop button activation; pushing with 11 N of force will activate and latch it. It features a bright red button with a mushroom head that is easy to see. To reset the switch prior to restarting equipment, the operator can pull the button with 17 N of force or rotate it with 0.27 N·m of torque.

The XW1E meets the IEC 60947-5-5:2026 standard for low-voltage emergency switchgear. Recently, the standard was modified so that emergency stop buttons can include additional functions. The XW1E has added a solenoid stop function that can be controlled remotely. The solenoid is activated by a 24 V DC signal, which is easy enough to supply from many automation systems and mobile robots.

For example, consider an automated guided vehicle (AGV) rolling around the factory floor. For whatever reason, something obstructs its navigation system, and it begins moving erratically. Sending a worker in to try to activate a manual emergency stop is dangerous. Instead, a remote command is sent to the solenoid, which pulls the button in and stops the machine. When the problem has been fixed, the emergency stop button must be manually reset, which is itself a built-in safety feature, requiring the worker to ensure that the AGV is safe to operate.

The XW1E integrates remote solenoid stopping with a required manual reset to ensure safe AMR operation. Image courtesy of IDEC

Rugged Build and Reverse Energy Structure

The button itself is designed for indoor use, meeting IP65 and UL Type 4X standards. It is designed for mounting in control panels and devices using an industry-standard 22 mm mounting hole. Its rugged construction enables it to be operated 250,000 times before failure; if an AGV has to be stopped that many times for emergency conditions, there are bigger problems to address.

Just like all IDEC X-series emergency stop buttons, IDEC has designed a “reverse energy structure” that includes a spring-loaded component that can activate the button, even if the button itself gets damaged. This is especially important in the mobile robot market, where, say, two AGVs run into each other and one of their emergency stop buttons gets damaged.

Designing Safe Systems

All machines should have an emergency button within arm’s reach at all times. For larger machines, this means integrating multiple emergency stop buttons with any other emergency control hardware that is present. Light curtains, break-beam sensors, emergency PLCs, pull cords, interlocks, and other such devices may be required for a comprehensive safety system.

The IDEC XW1E combines traditional manual actuation with remote solenoid activation. AGV and AMR markets will appreciate the ability to activate an emergency stop remotely. Outside of those markets, large machines with multiple emergency stop buttons can take advantage of the remote stop. Technicians can inspect all parts of the machine for safe operation and manually reset each before the machine operates.