Skip to content
2 min read

Maximizing Safety with Functional Safety Sensors from Contelec

Roger Zingg Mar 19, 2025 12:50:38 PM
Maximizing Safety with Functional Safety Sensors from Contelec
4:09

Functional Safety: The Key to Safe and Reliable Systems

In an era where safety is paramount, functional safety ensures that machines and systems operate securely, even in the event of a failure. At Contelec, we specialize in providing sensor solutions that meet the highest safety standards, helping our customers protect people, equipment, and processes.

Functional safety isn’t just a regulatory requirement—it’s a cornerstone of trust and reliability in modern industries. Let’s explore how Contelec’s innovative sensors make a difference.

What is Functional Safety?

Functional safety is defined by its ability to ensure that machines can detect faults and enter a safe state to prevent harm. It is governed by international standards like EN ISO 13849-1 and IEC 61508, which outline performance and integrity requirements for safety-critical systems.

The image showcases a modern manufacturing facility with advanced machinery and robotic arms working in unison

Why is it important?

Without functional safety measures, faults could lead to machine malfunctions, operator injuries, or even catastrophic failures. This is why safety compliance is critical across industries like construction, automation, and medical devices.

Contelec’s Functional Safety Solutions

At Contelec, we understand that one size does not fit all when it comes to safety. That’s why we offer three tailored sensor variants, each designed to meet specific safety requirements:

1. Standard Components – "Out of Context"

  • Key Features: Cost-efficient, quickly integrable sensors for general safety needs.
  • Applications: Flurförderzeuge, agricultural machinery, and other versatile uses.

 

2. Single-Channel Architecture with Diagnostics

  • Key Features: Simplified integration with built-in diagnostics for medium-level safety demands.
  • Applications: Industrial automation systems requiring a balance of safety and efficiency.

 

3. Context-Specific, CE-Compliant Solutions

  • Key Features: Custom-tailored solutions for unique, safety-critical applications.
  • Applications: High-stakes environments like medical devices or aerospace systems.

Each variant meets or exceeds PLd (Performance Level) and SIL 2 (Safety Integrity Level), ensuring compliance with global safety standards.

Real-World Applications of Functional Safety Sensors

Functional safety sensors are used in a wide variety of applications, such as:

  • Agricultural Machinery: Protecting operators and equipment in rugged environments.
  • Construction Equipment: Ensuring precise control and reliability for cranes and excavators.
  • Industrial Automation: Safeguarding production lines with real-time fault detection.
  • Medical Devices: Delivering consistent, fail-safe performance in life-critical systems.

With Contelec’s expertise, our clients can confidently address their unique safety challenges.

Why Choose Contelec?

Unmatched Expertise and Quality

With decades of experience, Contelec has built a reputation for delivering precision-engineered sensor solutions. Our products are rigorously tested to meet the harsh demands of safety-critical environments.

Tailored Solutions

We collaborate closely with our clients to develop custom sensor solutions that address their specific needs, from prototype development to large-scale production.

Swiss Precision

All Contelec products are designed and manufactured in Switzerland, ensuring the highest standards of quality and reliability.

Functional Safety: Building Trust and Compliance

Implementing functional safety measures is not just about compliance—it’s about building trust with stakeholders and end-users. Contelec’s sensors empower you to meet safety standards while optimizing system performance and efficiency.

Are you ready to take your safety systems to the next level? Let’s work together to build a safer future.

💡 Interested in functional safety?
📩 Contact us for an individual consultation!
Roger Zingg
Roger Zingg has been Managing Director of Contelec AG, a company based in Biel, Switzerland, which specializes in the development and production of angle sensors, since 1989. Under his leadership, Contelec has established itself as a leading provider of sensor solutions used in various industries such as agricultural engineering, medical technology and the energy sector. With over 35 years of experience in the sensor industry and a strong commitment to sporting activities, Roger Zingg embodies a balance between professional success and personal passion. Translated with DeepL.com (free version)

RELATED ARTICLES