Zero-Force TouchSafe Buttons Improve Safety in High-Risk Industries

IDEM Safety Switches has recently announced its new safety solution: TouchSafe, a fully electric zero-force capacitive solution that reduces the need for mechanical activation. Designed for high-risk industrial environments, the new solution reduces repetitive strains that would have otherwise resulted from mechanical push buttons that need forceful activation. With activation only occurring after the engagement of both hands, safety is ensured in industries with this new ergonomic solution.

The new two-hand-operated TouchSafe safety solution features capacitive touch-sensing technology. Image used courtesy of IDEM Safety Switches

TouchSafe Zero-Force Capacitive Solution

IDEM's TouchSafe button's fully electronic design comes equipped with capacitive sensing technology that ensures activation without physical force. Compatible with disposable gloves, the IP69K-rated solution can handle industrial environments with contamination, grease, or dirt without damage. This ingress protection rating, together with its durable design, broadens its range in industrial use.

The TouchSafe button has an M12 connector that reduces the need for complex wiring. Image used courtesy of IDEM Safety Switches

The new TouchSafe zero-force buttons are equipped with a 90-degree M12 connector that comes pre-wired for simplified installation. The design also offers a clamping provision with its threads and nuts, allowing secure mounting on housing accessories for two-hand operation or surfaces. To further ensure installation flexibility, IDEM offers an adjustable floor stand and a robust metal enclosure as accessories for external mounting and added durability.

For safety, the new capacitive touch solution prevents accidental or one-hand operation, ensuring machine activation only when both hands are simultaneously engaged. To further ensure safety in production tasks, the solution leverages a safety relay that checks through the TouchSafe’s control output if both buttons are touched at the same time. A bright LED indicator around its circular surface offers visual feedback on its activation status.

Applications in High-Risk Industries

Compliant with OSHA, ISO 13851, and ANSI safety standards, the new two hand-operated buttons protect the operators from hazardous machinery, thereby reducing downtime that may have otherwise resulted from injuries. TouchSafe solution can be used in demanding industrial setups such as metal working presses and cutting and bending machines. In automotive and aerospace, safety switches can be used in assembly lines, robot welding, and metal forming operations. Other critical areas that can benefit from the new safety solution include packaging, material handling, woodworking, plastic, pharmaceutical, chemical, construction, textile, and rubber industries.

With TouchSafe, the challenge of operator safety is addressed in hazardous or industrial environments with high risks. This, combined with its robust design, makes the solution a potential choice for industries seeking an ergonomically friendly, compliant, long-lasting solution to meet their safety needs.