The SB6 is a compact, standalone solution for applications with up to four axes. The series is available in three sizes for small to medium power requirements. It can control both linear and rotary synchronous servomotors, as well as asynchronous and Lean motors. Thanks to its particularly compact design, the SB6 fits into control cabinets with installation depths starting at 210 millimeters.
Extensive safety functions.
Equipped with the SX6, the SB6 is suitable for safety-relevant applications up to SIL 3, PL e (category 4) according to DIN 61800-5-2 or DIN EN ISO 13849-1. “The safety module enables classic stopping functions such as Safe Torque Off (STO), Safe Stop 1 (SS1), and Safe Stop 2 (SS2),” explains Meyering. These are complemented by Safely-Limited Speed (SLS), Safe Speed Range (SSR), Safe Direction (SDI), Safely-Limited Increment (SLI), and Safe Operating Stop (SOS).
To increase machine productivity and availability, STOBER has extended the monitoring mechanisms for safety functions beyond basic regulatory requirements. Through position-based limit value monitoring or selective masking of interference signals, the desired limit values can be achieved with a minimal signal-to-noise ratio. The SX6 performs continuous system testing during operation. This eliminates the need for cyclical functional testing and the requirement for end-user documentation of safety functions—a clear advantage for operational safety.
“Users benefit from minimal response times—less than ten milliseconds in the worst-case scenario—reduced safety distances, and rapid availability,” explains Meyering. “This significantly increases productivity and system availability.” The integrated safety module can directly intervene in the axis movement and stop the drive if a limit value is exceeded or in the event of an emergency stop. Alternatively, it can be configured to report only limit value violations. Furthermore, the EtherCAT and FSoE certifications provide the basis for easy integration into EtherCAT-based automation solutions.
Brake management: reliable protection against shaft drop.
Shafts subjected to gravity can drop or fall unexpectedly due to mechanical wear or dirt in the brakes, potentially endangering people in the danger zone. Meyering explains: "Therefore, appropriate measures must be taken in the design to significantly reduce this risk." For this application, STOBER has enhanced the SX6 with safe brake management. The SB6 drive controller with safety module thus meets the requirements of the German Social Insurance for Workplace Accidents (DGUV) for shafts subjected to gravity. "In combination with a motor with a holding brake and the ServoStop motor adapter with integrated brake, we offer a simple yet safe solution for planning and design in machine construction," says Meyering.
The SX6's brake management system includes Safe Brake Control (SBC), which ensures the brakes are applied safely. Additionally, the Safe Brake Test (SBT) function checks the defined braking torque as needed and detects discrepancies caused by factors such as dirt or defects before the braking torque reaches a critical level. The parameterized test interval is also monitored. Depending on the application or the requirements of the risk analysis, this interval can be once per production cycle or every eight hours at the start of the shift. If the brake holding torque is no longer sufficient, the actuation controller offers the "Brake Adjustment" function. The system can then recheck whether the required test torque has been reached. Since the brake management system supports the operation of up to two brakes, it covers all application scenarios outlined in the DGUV technical bulletin for axles subjected to gravity.
