Signalling devices offer flexibility in machine design

Both the flat front and rear variants can be combined with the power management company’s RMQ Titan range, offering a high level of flexibility in machine design.

The space saved is of particular benefit for machines with separate operating terminals such as supporting arms. The switches and command signals provide an ergonomic link to the machine ensuring that users can best operate their process, and both components can be combined with emergency-stop devices to ensure that machines provide the highest level of safety.

The RMQ flat design devices are easy to install thanks to a mounting concept known as the RMQ-AFX, offering anti-rotation protection, flexible distance span and straight level adjustment. The devices are designed for 30mm boreholes and users can specify a version with tongue and groove anti-twist protection (as featured on the other RMQ Titan range), or one with no tongue and groove depending on their preference. In this case, the device is aligned using the straight edges on the rear-mounting block. The devices also automatically adapt to the plate thickness and lug options.

The product portfolio ranges from push buttons and indicator lights to key-operated push buttons, joystick, potentiometer and USB versions. There is also an encoder design which combines turn and push functions. All RMQ Flat Front products are available with high degrees of dust and water ingress protection up to IP69K and with international approval.

The RMQ Flat Rear components enable a reduced installation depth of less than 30mm. They also feature multi-colour LEDs in red, green and blue, which can be included, for example, as status indicators, to alert the user and assist with process management. The inclusion of LEDs also contributes towards significant cost savings in procurement as the customer does not have to stock different devices with individual colours.

Eaton has also expanded its RMQ compact solution range of all-in-one devices, which have their cables, plug-in connector and housing already integrated and installed as fixed features. The portfolio now includes an emergency-stop button, selector and key-operated switch with fully enclosed rear side and IP65-rated ingress protection. It is also now available with cable lengths of 20cm, 50cm, 1m and 3.5m. The error-free and simple installation of the RMQ compact solution reduces assembly time and engineering costs.