Implement IO-Link Safety with TEConcept – from concept to certification
Are you planning a new IO-Link functional safety development – or would you like to add functional safety to an existing product?
Functional Safety Device and Master Stack
In line with the IO-Link Device Stack and IO-Link Master Stack software stacks, TEConcept is working on finalizing the software for the functional safety implementation. The Safety Master Stack is already pre-certified and in the final steps toward full certification, and the Safety Device Stack is also expected to be ready for use in the near future.
Safety Master Stack
Extending the master stack with functional safety – for standard-compliant, safety-related communication in automation applications.
Safety Device Stack (work in progress)
Will enable the integration of functional safety into sensors and actuators in the future. Contact us for more information about the planned release.
IO-Link Functional Safety Development Tools
In addition to the Safety Master Stack, TEConcept is currently working on integrating safety into the proven IO-Link 1-Port USB-C development master. The goal is to make it just as easy to parameterize, analyze, and test safety devices directly from a PC in the future as it already is today for standard IO-Link devices — fully powered via USB-C, without an additional PLC or external power supply. This creates a comprehensive development tool that covers the entire path from a safety device’s first commissioning to preparation for conformance testing.
IO-Link Functional Safety Diagnostic and Test Tools
Safety Master Tester
The Safety Master Tester automatically checks whether your safety master meets the required specifications and generates a PDF report for certification.
Any questions about IO-Link functional safety?
Do you need more information or specific adaptations? Contact our team of experts – we will be happy to support you with a tailored approach.
Why you should work with us on functional safety
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FAQ on IO-Link Functional Safety
What is IO-Link Functional Safety, and which safety levels are supported?
IO-Link Functional Safety extends IO-Link with a safety communication layer (SCL) on both the master and device side. It can be used up to SIL 3. The concept has been reviewed by TÜV SÜD.
Why do I need IO-Link functional safety – isn’t OSSDe sufficient?
OSSD does not support bidirectional communication or parameterization. Without IO-Link functional safety, a manufacturer would have to implement multiple FSCP protocols (PROFIsafe, CIP Safety, etc.). With Safety, a single device type is sufficient for all FSCP platforms.
What does “Black Channel" mean and how is communication safeguarded?
IO-Link is used as the transmission channel without having to be assessed to IEC 61508 itself. The safety is provided by the protocol: counter/inverted counter, watchdog with acknowledgment, authentication at protocol start, and CRC signature (CRC-16 or CRC-32).
How do parameterization and commissioning work?
Protocol parameters (FSP_) are set via the FS master tool and the IODD. A supplied dedicated tool transfers device-specific safety parameters (FST_) and calculates a CRC signature across all technology parameters. The FS device checks this signature at every startup.
What advantages does IO-Link Functional Safety offer device manufacturers?
A single device type covers both FS-DI operation (OSSDe) and FS master operation (functional safety) – without variants, without license fees. This includes bidirectional data transmission, integrated diagnostics for condition monitoring and predictive maintenance, as well as a clear foundation for Industry 4.0 / IIoT.
Is there a separate specification document for IO-Link functional safety?
Yes. The specification can be found on the IO-Link Community website in the download area under the name IO-Link Safety Systems Extensions.
Contact
- +49 761 21443640
- +49 761 21443636
- info@teconcept.de
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