IDEC Blog

Celebrating 120 years of the International Electrotechnical Commission, part 3: IDEC's contributions to standardization

It’s been 120 years since the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) was founded. Our 3-part series of articles on the IEC celebrates this milestone anniversary, and the many achievements and technological developments along the way. Part 1: a look back at the IEC’s history and developments Part 2: IEC standards that changed industrial safety for the better Part 3: IDEC’s contributions to international standardization and industrial safety HE series 3-position enabling switches Relevant standard: IEC 60947-5-8 An enabling switch is a unique safety device that differs from a hold-to-run switch. In general, standard switches such as hold-to-run switches only have 2 settings (positions): ‘on’, and ‘off’. They operate only while held in the ‘on’ position (1 of 2 positions). A 3-position enabling switch has an ‘off-on-off’ configuration. It ensures safety by allowing machine operation (placing it in a standby-ready state) only while it is maintained in the ‘on’ position (the 2nd of 3 positions). The extra ‘off’ position accounts for human nature – a fail-safe against unconscious reflexes in unexpected situations. The switch must be deliberately gripped with a steady amount of pressure to remain ‘on’ (in the 2nd position). In an emergency, the operator may react by gripping the switch more tightly (pushing it to the 3rd position), or by releasing it completely (returning it to the 1st position) – in either case, the switch turns ‘off’. This structure makes it possible to cover safety over a wider range than standard two-position switches. We also design our 3-position enabling switches with strong consideration for ergonomics. IDEC products designed to conform to IEC standards When safety devices and/or their features and functions are subject to the requirements of IEC standards, we work to make sure relevant IDEC products are fully compliant. We’ve highlighted a selection of those products below. IDEC’s ongoing contributions to IEC standards, and to comprehensive safety measures in industrial workplaces Some of our knowledge about the IEC’s history, technical committees and standards comes from in-house safety training and research. Much of it comes from our direct involvement with the IEC for close to 30 years. IDEC’s presence on IEC and ISO technical committees began in the 1990s. We actively help to create and shape the rules that govern industrial safety, showing that Japan can take the lead in international standardization. In 2003, IDEC representatives suggested that the IEC should publish an international standard for 3-position enabling switches. 3 years later, in October 2006, the result was: IEC 60947-5-8 (Low-voltage switchgear and controlgear - Part 5-8: Control circuit devices and switching elements - Three-position enabling switches) IEC 60947-5-8 was revised in 2020, to include 3-position enabling switches that are mounted on teaching pendants. X series emergency stop switches Relevant standard: IEC 60947-5-5 The safety requirements for e-stops are so ingrained in the public consciousness that the instantly recognizable colors and design of our switches go without saying. A green status indicator part, visible from the side, also makes it clear whether the switch is pressed (latched) or not. The safety lock mechanism, direct opening action mechanism, short-circuit protection, and the degree of water/dust protection for IDEC X series e-stops also meet the requirements of related IEC standards. More recently, our illuminated short-body emergency stop switches (XA/XW series) have been developed to also comply with the optional illumination requirements specified by international standards. The status of the emergency stop function – whether active or inactive – can be clearly identified at a glance by the button’s illumination color, which changes to red (active). SE2L Advanced safety laser scanner Relevant standards: IEC 61496-3, IEC 61496-1, IEC 61508 (parts 1 to 7) In work environments where humans are always close to robots, machinery, and other hazardous areas, a safety laser scanner – positioned effectively – constantly works to prevent collisions and injury. Set up detection zones (a warning zone and a protection zone) with simple area configuration software. The SE2L Advanced has a 270-degree wide sensing angle, and can be configured to cover 2 separate protection zones and replace up to 2 light curtains (monitor up to 2 areas). If the SE2L Advanced detects a human or object in the warning zone, it’ll signal the hazard (e.g. an AGV/AMR, robot arm, etc.) to slow down. If a human or object is detected in the protection zone, the scanner signals the hazard to come to a complete stop. FS1B safety controller Relevant standards: IEC 62061, IEC 61508 (parts 1 to 7) Functional safety in a control system is achieved through several steps, starting with an initial risk assessment. When designing the safety-related parts of a control system, a safety controller is the logical choice to keep systems streamlined and protected. The FS1B comes with 24 pre-loaded, pre-certified safety control logics. The logics themselves meet international standards for functional safety, and give users pre-set configuration options including partial stop control, mode switching, and muting. All outputs from the safety controller are safety outputs. Alongside the safety inputs, logics can be configured to include reset inputs and external device inputs for system monitoring. Looking forward to the next 100+ years of industrial, technological and safety developments – keeping global standards relevant, and raising the bar More recommended reading here on our website: International safety standards (ISO/IEC) What is a 3-position enabling switch? What is an emergency stop switch? What is a safety relay module/safety controller? What is a safety laser scanner? Repeated recognition for our efforts, input, and expertise in standardization In 2004, the IEC created the 1906 Award for outstanding individual achievements. One of our in-house safety standardization experts, a member of the IEC subcommittee for low-voltage switchgear and controlgear, won the award in 2021. As a company heavily involved in standardization, we continue to represent Japan on the IEC Advisory Committee for Safety (ACOS), and persuaded the committee to develop a guide to Collaborative Safety (Safety 2.0). That guide, IEC Guide 127 (Guidelines for safety-related risk assessment and risk reduction for collaborative safety system) was published in 2026. New IEC standards will now be developed with even greater consideration for collaborative safety aspects.

Celebrating 120 years of the International Electrotechnical Commission, part 2: standards that changed industrial safety

IEC 62046 (Safety of machinery - Application of protective equipment to detect the presence of persons) The requirements outlined in IEC 62046 are for “the selection, positioning, configuration and commissioning of protective equipment to detect the momentary or continued presence of persons in order to protect those persons from dangerous part(s) of machinery in industrial applications.” In other words, the standard helps you to determine: which types of protective equipment are suitable in different situations, when and where to use them, and how they should effectively function to keep workers safe. The ‘protective equipment’ covered by this standard includes pressure-sensitive mats, light curtains, and other light beam devices. IEC 60947-5-5 (Low-voltage switchgear and controlgear - Part 5-5: Control circuit devices and switching elements - Electrical emergency stop device with mechanical latching function) International safety standards for emergency stop switches are highly detailed and specific, and for good reason. This type of switch must be easy to see and quickly accessible in an emergency. For example, the red button/yellow background combination is part of the requirements of IEC 60947-5-5 and other related standards. This highly visible color scheme is globally recognized and understood to represent e-stops, removing language barriers and increasing response times. In June 2026, the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) celebrated the 120th anniversary of its founding. To mark this milestone, we’re publishing a 3-part series of articles on the IEC: the first committees and standards, major publications over the years, and the global impact on industrial safety. Part 1: a look back at the IEC’s history and developments Part 2: IEC standards that changed industrial safety for the better Part 3: IDEC’s contributions to international standardization and industrial safety IEC 61131-2 (Industrial-process measurement and control - Programmable controllers - Part 2: Equipment requirements and tests) You might consider the PLC in your system to be much more of a control device than a safety device. The IEC considers PLC safety important enough that the IEC 61131 series of standards for PLCs has 10 parts (as of June 2026). Part 2 provides requirements to confirm that a PLC can – and will – function as intended within a system. It covers the PLC’s operating temperature and humidity limits, resistance to shock and vibrations, digital and analog I/Os, and compatibility with other devices. A PLC that meets these requirements – after thorough testing, as also outlined in the standard – will be a reliable, durable element of your control system. IEC 60204-1 (Safety of machinery - Electrical equipment of machines - Part 1: General requirements) IEC 60204-1, as the ‘general requirements’ section of the series, covers the essentials for building safe, reliable systems, such as: Physical environment and operating conditions Incoming supply conductor terminations and devices for disconnecting and switching off Protection against electric shock Protection of equipment Control circuits and control functions Control functions in the event of failure Operator interface and machine-mounted control devices Conductors and cables Wiring practices Marking, warning signs and reference designations Technical documentation etc. If you’re working with electrical equipment and you’re not sure where to start, then we suggest reading more about IEC 60204-1 requirements as the first step. The IEC 60204 series has other parts that apply to specific types of machinery and electrical equipment. International standards are made to be followed – in part 3, find out how IDEC contributes to standardization and high safety on a global scale By developing harmonized, globally agreed technical rules and standards, the IEC continues working to simplify safety compliance for everyone. In part 3 – the final article in this series – we’ll highlight our own contributions to a safer world. IDEC’s involvement with IEC standardization has continued for several decades. Learn more about our long-standing commitment to safety, and to supporting the IEC’s vital work. Examples of IEC standards that have changed industrial safety for the better Safety standardization benefits everyone – especially workers, who enjoy constant reassurance that their workplace meets global health and safety benchmarks. Shared terminology and requirements simplify initial planning, and the long-term advantages of compliance include cost-effective operations, fewer accidents, easier maintenance, and higher productivity. With thousands of standards to choose from, picking out IEC guidelines and requirements with strong positive impacts on industrial safety wasn’t easy. We’ve focused on standards relevant to different areas of machine safety and functional safety. The list below reflects the variety of IEC standards, and the sheer number of things that systems designers and end users must consider during industrial safety risk assessments. IEC 61131-6 (Programmable controllers - Part 6: Functional safety) Programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and their peripherals are defined in IEC 61131-1. Parts 2 to 5 cover equipment requirements, programming languages, user guidelines, and communications (in that order). Industrial safety systems are built around PLCs. Any international standard that specifies functional safety requirements for the PLC serves to improve the whole system by default. PLCs and peripherals that comply with IEC 61131-6 are classed as ‘functional safety programmable logic controllers’, and are suitable for use in electrical/electronic/programmable electronic safety-related systems. IEC 61496-3 (Safety of machinery - Electro-sensitive protective equipment - Part 3: Particular requirements for active opto-electronic protective devices responsive to diffuse reflection (AOPDDR)) IEC 61496-3 “specifies additional requirements for the design, construction and testing of non contact electro-sensitive protective equipment (ESPE) designed specifically to detect persons or parts of persons as part of a safety-related system, employing active opto-electronic protective devices responsive to diffuse reflection (AOPDDRs) for the sensing function.” AOPDDRs are devices with either: 1 or more detection zone(s) specified in 2 dimensions (AOPDDR-2D), or 1 or more detection zone(s) specified in 3 dimensions (AOPDDR-3D) This definition covers safety laser scanners used to detect humans and objects (obstacles) in industrial environments. It sounds complex, but IEC 61496-3 directs your attention to requirements that ensure you achieve a suitable level of safety-related performance for your application. IEC 62061 (Safety of machinery - Functional safety of safety-related control systems) Where IEC 61508 is the ‘main’ IEC standard for functional safety, IEC 62061 is specific to the machinery sector – simplifying overall understanding in this area. It focuses on functional safety requirements and risks, related only to hazardous situations arising from the machine itself or from a coordinated group of machines. IEC 62061 will take you through requirements and recommendations for designing, integrating, and validating a safety-related control system (SCS) for a machine. It covers planning and management of functional safety at the same time. With this framework in place, the resulting control system has safety integrity and the ability to avoid or control systematic faults, a solid subsystem architecture, and full validation.

Celebrating 120 years of the International Electrotechnical Commission, part 1: the IEC's history

The early 20th century: a turning point for electrical scientists As the IEC’s own history recalls , in the 1880s the world of electrical science started to change. Global scientists knew that using their own measurements and terminology – rather than shared language – was slowing shared progress in their field. There were more than 10 different units of electromotive force, current, and resistance in use worldwide at that time. The scientific community moved quickly, meeting at the first International Electrical Congress (Paris, 1881), to discuss units of measurement. They decided on shared names and measurements for many of the units we use today, including the ohm, the volt, and the ampere. Those initial talks didn’t solve everything. At the International Electrical Congress held in America 23 years later (St. Louis, Missouri, 1904), the Palace of Electricity exhibits used different currents, voltages, frequencies, connectors, and plug sockets. According to the IEC and other sources , St. Louis was where talks to establish the commission began. The Congress suggested that a permanent international body should work to standardize various electrical terms and measurements. The IEC was formally founded in London, at an initial meeting attended by participants from 16 countries. Decisions by committee, each with a highly specific focus The common process for making, reviewing and revising international safety standards is via committees of experts. Members are selected from the IEC’s national committees, to be sure that different countries and points of view are represented. There were over 90 national committees at the time of writing. Committees act as neutral, independent platforms for experts to discuss specific issues and agree on solutions. Each international standard the IEC publishes is the consensus-based result of those discussions: "A normative document, developed according to consensus procedures, which has been approved by the IEC National Committee members of the responsible committee in accordance with Part 1 of the ISO/IEC Directives." Within the first 8 years the IEC established 4 advisory committees, for: Nomenclature Symbols Rating of electrical machinery Prime movers Advisory committees were eventually renamed as ‘technical committees’. The total number of committees grew to 10 in 1923, to 34 in 1948, and to 80 by 1980. Including sub-committees and joint ISO/IEC committees, as of early 2026 there were roughly 230 IEC technical committees with close to 11,000 members. Industrial safety-related areas covered by IEC committees include: Safety of machinery – Electrotechnical aspects Low-voltage switchgear and controlgear Equipment for explosive atmospheres Industrial-process measurement, control and automation Information technology Artificial Intelligence Some have existed since the early days of the IEC, and some were created in response to newer technological advances. As a recent example, the ISO/IEC joint committee on quantum technologies was established in early 2024. Quiet preparations during wartime: laying the groundwork for thousands of international safety standards In the first few decades of the IEC’s existence, progress was slow. The First and Second World Wars repeatedly interrupted committee work – including almost total suspension of IEC activities for 6 years. When the technical committees were active, they focused on laying foundations for future scientific and electrical developments. The first standard, issued in 1925 , set the international benchmarks for the resistance of copper. One of the earliest safety-related standards was the IEC 60061 series (Lamp caps and holders together with gauges for the control of interchangeability and safety), first published in 1969. With globally consistent benchmarks, units and terms in place, more standards rapidly followed. As of the end of 2025, the IEC had published over 7,850 international standards. Nearly 500 of those were issued during 2025 alone. More than 2,000 of the IEC standards focus on electrical safety. They cover the manufacturing industry, IT systems and telecommunication, materials handling equipment, and much more. The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) was founded on June 26th, 1906. For the organization’s 120th anniversary in June 2026, we look back at the early days, major milestones, technical breakthroughs, and the most significant international standards for industrial safety. This article is the first in a 3-part series: Part 1: a look back at the IEC’s history and developments Part 2: IEC standards that changed industrial safety for the better Part 3: IDEC’s contributions to international standardization and industrial safety Electropedia, the online database for an IEC series with over 260 parts International safety standardization bodies set universal meanings for the words and terms used in their standards. As an example, every ISO standard has a ‘terms and definitions’ section. The IEC compiles their terminology into the International Electrical Vocabulary (IEV), otherwise known as the IEC 60050 series. The first edition of the IEV was published in 1938. More than 260 parts of the series are available on the IEC’s online store as of 2026, and the series numbering has reached over 800. The online version is ‘Electropedia’ (or ‘IEV Online’) . It has over 22,000 entries in English and French. Electropedia lists definitions for commonly used phrases related to industrial safety, such as: Safety: “freedom from unacceptable risk” (ISO/IEC Guide 51) Functional safety: “part of the overall safety that depends on functional and physical units operating correctly in response to their inputs” (IEC/TR 61508-0) Safety-related control system: “part of the control system of a machine which implements a safety function by one or more subsystems” (IEC 62061) Safety Integrity Level (SIL): “number which indicates the required degree of confidence that a system will meet its specified safety functions with respect to systematic failures” (IEC 62280) Interlock: “arrangement of devices operating together - To prevent hazardous situations, or - To prevent damage to equipment or material, or - To prevent specified operations, or - To ensure correct operations” (IEC 60204-1) Work on Electropedia remains the responsibility of Technical Committee 1 (Terminology). In our next article: the IEC standards with some of the biggest impacts on modern industrial safety Thanks to the IEC’s committees, and Electropedia’s definitions of safety-related terms, IEC standards are clear, purposeful, and support global standardization and compliance. In part 2 of this article series, we’ll go into more detail with examples of IEC standards that have transformed industrial safety for the better. After that, in part 3, read about IDEC’s long-term contributions to international safety standardization and products that conform to specific IEC standards.

HMI: turn customization into a software update

A monthly newsletter from the IDEC EMEA team. As machine builders strive to deliver increasingly tailored solutions, operator interfaces must evolve just as quickly. Yet every hardware redesign adds cost, complexity, and delays. By replacing fixed membrane keypads with programmable touchscreens, manufacturers can simplify customization, improve durability, and prepare their equipment for future digital capabilities such as remote diagnostics and data collection. This European customer story shows how a simple HMI upgrade transformed both flexibility and long-term scalability.

More benefits of having a bus coupler module in your remote I/O system: enjoy streamlined installation and long-term savings with the IDEC SX8R

Unplanned and/or extended downtime : all control systems evolve over time. You may want to change the number of devices, or decide that the latest version of a device better meets your needs. Depending on how the system is arranged, adding or removing a device may mean temporarily putting everything else on hold. You can always plan ahead to minimize the downtime involved with control system upgrades – but if the work takes longer than expected, cost and productivity losses will continue to rise by the hour. In a well-designed remote I/O system, changes have a minimal effect on the rest of the existing setup. Lower disruption also means a lower chance of errors and equipment failure, further preventing unexpected downtime. SX8R features that help to minimize downtime: Flexible scalability and system expansion : add modules as and when without rewiring the entire system. Quicker wiring : as push-in terminals speed up the process, you can restore full system functionality even sooner. Support for multiple network protocols : take advantage of the SX8R’s compatibility with EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP and CC-Link IE Field Basic for reliable communication between devices. Dedicated software : use SX8R Configurator for easy ‘drag-and-drop’ module configuration and communication settings. Operating temperature range : the wide -25°C to +65°C range keeps the SX8R running optimally in hot and cold operating environments. Faster, smoother installation saves time on every system building project Many of the SX8R’s clever features contribute to cutting installation and wiring times: Modular architecture : install what you need at the time, and nothing more. Over 40 remote I/O modules to choose from : find and quickly combine modules with digital and analog inputs and outputs for the ideal setup. Easy addition of expansion I/O modules : various expansion modules can be easily added to the bus coupler module, with no base plate required. Expansion interface module : easy to increase the number of digital and analog I/Os as needed. Push-in terminals : wiring takes roughly half the time, compared to using screw terminals. These advantages could have a significant impact on how quickly you can get your system up and running. Equipment maintenance : every machine will need maintenance at some point. To get the most use and efficiency out of your equipment, you need to optimize your maintenance processes. This involves knowing the current state of machinery and when/how to maintain it – in other words, you need the latest device data. In systems where devices are installed further away from each other, visiting all of them in person to record data read-outs is impractical and time-consuming. However, a lack of real-time information can throw off your maintenance schedule. Remote I/O systems are designed to reduce and optimize maintenance, using IoT connectivity to efficiently collate data. Having the latest information in one place creates the opportunity for predictive maintenance – spot issues before they happen, replace parts before they break, and prevent unnecessary work. SX8R features that help to simplify maintenance: Simpler installation of sensors : if your system needs added sensors for predictive maintenance, these can also be installed with minimal wiring. Increased data visibility : having system information in one place significantly lowers the risk of unforeseen issues. Easy debugging of configurations : view the data from each I/O module remotely, including ON/OFF status, current values, set values, and error information (for analog modules). Self-diagnostic software function : SX8R Configurator can display the specific location of a fault (e.g. which I/O module has the error). We’ve previously looked at how the IDEC SX8R bus coupler module (for remote I/O systems) can improve the reliability and efficiency of your automated systems . The other main considerations for industrial systems designers are – naturally – speed and the costs of implementation and maintenance. The SX8R can also act as an effective solution for customers prioritizing these needs. How and where do bus coupler modules fit into an industrial automation system? In some ways, it’s more than just part of the system: a bus coupler module is what makes remote I/O systems possible. In medium- to large-scale systems, various control and safety devices may be installed in different locations. Depending on the size of the system, ‘different locations’ could mean anything from separate rooms to opposite ends of a warehouse. Physically connecting control devices with wires and cables becomes extremely difficult – and taking manual data readings becomes highly impractical. A bus coupler acts as the dedicated communication module for connected remote I/O modules to share data, via commonly used network protocols. Each remote module collects information from control devices out in the field and sends it to the bus coupler, which then forwards it to the PLC. The SX8R fits into these systems with ease, thanks to its compact design and mounting hooks. No wires are needed to connect the bus coupler and I/O modules – they simply click together. Built for adaptability across different industries Remote I/O systems – and the SX8R bus coupler module as part of a system – have features and functions that lend themselves to a wide variety of industrial applications. For example: Machine tools : efficiency is key, in terms of both installation space and work processes – achieve system downsizing and improve machine uptime with the SX8R and a remote I/O system in combination. Automotive : downtime losses in the automotive industry are measured by the minute – the SX8R in remote I/O systems helps keep downtime to a minimum. Food and packaging : accurate data is essential to maintain product quality and hygiene levels – use remote I/O modules to collect real-time information on temperatures, weights, process timing, etc. Automated production lines : different lines and process stages require a variety of different devices – pick out the I/O modules to support each device type and AC/DC inputs and outputs. Construction : depending on the work site, data monitoring in the field may be too difficult – IIoT connectivity is a game-changer for construction projects, enabling reliable remote monitoring. Logistics : in large warehouses and storage facilities, devices may be placed far away from both each other and the controller – in remote I/O systems, more distance between devices isn’t a barrier to data transfer. Added convenience, from system implementation to ongoing maintenance Whether you’re weighing up changes to your remote I/O system or making plans to design a new one from scratch, the IDEC SX8R can make things simpler. The SX8R bus coupler module is available in all of our global regions. Review the specifications here on the website, then reach out to your local IDEC team to further discuss your needs. Smart, efficient features that save time and money over equipment lifecycles When calculating the long-term costs of running a remote I/O system, there are 2 inevitable factors you must consider: downtime , and maintenance .

Full control in long-distance & high-interference environments

A monthly newsletter from the IDEC EMEA team. Wireless instability, operator safety, and long-distance machine control are major challenges in heavy-duty welding environments. This month, discover how the HT4P IDEC Safety Commander™ helped a custom metal fabrication customer in Europe deploy a reliable 20-meter wired control solution while preserving the flexibility of their Android-based welding interface.

Empowering autonomous mobility with HMI-X: IDEC and ez-Wheel’s integrated approach (part 2)

HMI applications – and the HMIs themselves – are evolving in harmony In this HMI-X system, the definition of ‘HMI’ has started to change. The ‘interface’ aspect of ‘human machine interfaces’ is even more interactive. The balance is shifting – before, users (humans) actively used interfaces by pressing buttons and touching displays. Now, the ‘machine’ element of HMIs plays a stronger part, with passive technologies that sense humans and automatically act to keep them safe. Together, the devices and technologies that make up HMI-X systems create working environments where machines and humans can safely coexist. Transformation: calling it simply a corporate ‘buzzword’ plays down the real, constant changes and evolutions in technologies and how people work. Many manufacturers and other companies are aiming for ‘transformation’ in their industry. They could just say ‘change’, but transformation takes more effort and dedication. It involves rethinking how they do business from the ground up. You may see ‘X’ used to represent transformation in a business context. Take DX (digital transformation) as one common example. At IDEC, we plan to transform human-machine interfaces (HMIs) through the HMI-X concept. Industry 4.0 will naturally be followed by further stages of technological advancements, and we’ll continue working to redefine HMIs and what they’re capable of. In part 1 of this series , we explained the HMI-X concept and several IDEC products born from new initiatives. This time, we’ll go into more detail on other products that demonstrate our progress so far and the ongoing potential of HMI-X. In this article: Building on the HMI-X concept: Safety Wheel Drive HMIs and their applications evolving in harmony Transforming workplace safety with HMI-X and automation Building on the HMI-X concept: Safety Wheel Drive Together, IDEC and ez-Wheel have continued to take this holistic approach to technological transformation and product development. The innovative Safety Wheel Drive system is the result. It’s designed to work with a variety of IDEC safety devices to create a flexible, reliable industrial safety system. For example, when Safety Wheel Drive and the SE2L Advanced safety laser scanner are installed on an AGV, the result is a simple, safety compliant AGV. Transforming workplace safety with HMI-X and automation solutions Combined with IDEC’s SE2L Advanced safety laser scanner, the motorized Safety Wheel Drive system addresses the functional needs of driverless industrial trucks. It also does so in full compliance with international standards for AGVs, and with ISO3691-4. Safety Wheel Drive is currently on sale in many regions, including Japan, Europe, the USA and Canada. The SE2L Advanced safety laser scanner is available globally. These advances in HMI-X solutions for the AGV/AMR industry are just the start. We’re developing and rolling out other ways that Safety Wheel Drive can meet customer needs and add value, especially when implemented alongside other IDEC products and technologies. Subscribe to our mailing list and follow us on social media for regular product updates. IDEC is working to create the optimum environment for humans and machines. Learn more about our HMI-X initiatives on the IDEC corporate website . Installing Safety Wheel Drive on AGVs/AMRs that operate in the same areas as humans immediately gives those AGVs and/or AMRs advanced safety controls: Safe motor disconnection (STO) when a stop is requested Safe brake control (SBC) to ensure a standstill Safe direction (SDI) in case of collision risk Safely limited speed (SLS) to prevent hazardous situations Safe maximum speed (SMS) to secure operating range The SE2L Advanced safety laser scanner has a 270° sensing angle. It senses when someone (or something) is within the warning area or safety protection zone for the AGV. If the scanner detects a person or object in the warning zone, Safety Wheel Drive will slow down. In the safety protection zone, Safety Wheel Drive will stop.

Empowering autonomous mobility with HMI-X: IDEC and ez-Wheel’s integrated approach (part 1)

Keeping our thinking flexible and dynamic, to develop wide-ranging innovations As a leader in HMIs, IDEC has grown globally – and continually works to achieve consistently high levels of safety and contribute to society. HMI-X means more than simply innovating in the HMI segment. HMIs are just one aspect of comprehensive solutions that incorporate hardware and software. We're driving new initiatives in key fields, including automation and driverless industrial trucks and their systems (AGVs and AMRs). These efforts have resulted in several new product launches, including: The KW2D smart RFID reader : custom authorization and high security, to help customers manage equipment access and work logs. The HT3P and HT4P Safety Commander tablet holders : forward-thinking design that includes a 3-position enabling switch and emergency stop switch. The CW series of touchless switches : designed for convenience, accessibility, and hygiene, with built-in sensors and indicator lights. The HG1J and HG2J operator interfaces : touchscreen display panels with high clarity and environmental durability. What is HMI-X? IDEC defines Human-Machine Interface Transformation (HMI-X) as “the change in the optimal interface that accompanies major changes in the relationship between humans and machines.” The ‘X’ represents transformation, and ‘HMI’ is short for Human-Machine Interfaces. We first introduced this concept in 2022, as part of our Medium-Term Management Plan for FY2023-FY2025. It remains part of our plan for FY2026-FY2028. Our work so far is only the start: transformation never ends The IDEC products introduced in this article – the KW2D, HT3P and HT4P, CW series, and the HG series – are all available globally. Contact us directly for more details, follow us on social media , or subscribe to our mailing list. In part 2 of this series , we’ll introduce another highly innovative IDEC product that embodies our HMI-X approach. Change is inevitable, and it never stops. People and businesses continue to move with the times, and with new trends and technologies. More than simply aiming to ‘change’ or to do things differently, many companies are pursuing ‘transformation’. Business transformation is ambitious – it involves creating new processes, redefining company culture, and improving the customer experience. You may be familiar with ‘digital transformation’, commonly known as DX. It generally refers to using digital technologies to rethink business processes and drive value creation. IDEC and ez-Wheel are taking a groundbreaking approach to business transformation with the HMI-X concept. We intend to reimagine human-machine interfaces (HMIs) in the age of Industry 4.0 and beyond. In this article: What is HMI-X? Flexible and dynamic thinking that drives innovations The transformation > solution > transformation cycle for industrial safety These user interfaces and the ways they interact with HMIs are equally important. For example, demand for contactless devices and remote monitoring with HMIs rapidly increased during the Covid-19 pandemic. Each new IDEC product represents a technological advancement – and they’re even more effective when used together. By providing products and services that combine safety and HMIs, IDEC will drive HMI-X and contribute to achieving well-being for our diverse stakeholders. Transformation leads to new solutions – and those solutions will transform processes and safety at industrial work sites The aim of IDEC’s HMI-X concept is to combine the control element of HMIs with: Increased safety and well-being Automation Dedicated hardware and software IoT (IIoT) connectivity The products, services, and solutions we develop through HMI-X will together create environments where humans and machines can safely coexist.

Moving two tons without the strain

A monthly newsletter from the IDEC EMEA team. Handling multi-ton data servers in narrow aisles presents both ergonomic and operational challenges. Discover how an electrically assisted mobility solution eliminates operator strain while improving precision and safety.

IDEC Engineering Insights #7, part 2: a global technical support team leader who never stops learning

IDEC Engineering Insights is a series of interviews with IDEC employees who hold specialized product knowledge. Through this Q&A format, they share some of their professional experience and personal opinions on IDEC products and solutions.

IDEC Engineering Insights #7, part 1: a global technical support team leader who never stops learning

IDEC Engineering Insights is a series of interviews with IDEC employees who hold specialized product knowledge. Through this Q&A format, they share some of their professional experience and personal opinions on IDEC products and solutions.

IDEC Engineering Insights #6: an engineer dedicated to raising awareness of safety and IDEC products in the China market

IDEC Engineering Insights is a series of interviews with IDEC employees who hold specialized product knowledge. Through this Q&A format, they share some of their professional experience and personal opinions on IDEC products and solutions.