IO-Link Safety extends the established IO-Link technology to include functional safety and enables secure communication between safety-related sensors, actuators, and the higher-level safety control system. This allows safety functions - such as monitoring safety doors, controlling safe actuators, light curtains, or emergency stop devices - to be integrated flexibly and consistently into machines and systems.
IO-Link Safety technology is based on IO-Link and brings its well-known advantages to the world of functional safety. The focus is on the simplified integration of safety-related devices, integration via the IODD device description file, and easy device replacement. In combination with IO-Link, IO-Link Safety opens up new possibilities for efficient, cost-effective, and future-proof machine automation.
The combination of the two technologies - IO-Link and IO-Link Safety - enables a holistic communication concept and supports machine and plant manufacturers in implementing functional safety as an integral part of their automation solution.
With the first devices certified by TÜV SÜD, an important milestone has now been reached. This creates the essential prerequisites for practical application, IO-Link Safety can now take the next step toward market penetration.
At the SPS 2026 trade show in Nuremberg, the IO-Link Community will present an exhibit in Hall 5, Booth 210, that brings together IO-Link and IO-Link Safety. The demonstration shows how different devices interact in the field of functional safety using a scaled-down robotic application with an operator and signaling unit as well as safety door monitoring. It illustrates how IO-Link Safety can be used in mechanical engineering in the future.
For the first time, devices with TÜV SÜD certification are being used. These include a light curtain, a modular door interlock, an IO-Link Safety Master, and two different RFID switches.