What is the difference between a safety scanner and a light curtain?
The main difference between a safety scanner and a safety light curtain lies in their detection area, technology, and application. Both are non-contact safety devices used to protect operators from hazardous machine movements, but they work in different ways and are suited for different setups.
A safety light curtain creates a straight, two-dimensional wall of infrared light beams between a transmitter and receiver. When any beam is interrupted, it immediately sends a stop signal to the machine. Light curtains are best for fixed access points — such as openings on presses, packaging machines, or assembly stations — where a person might reach into a danger zone. Their protection zone is usually rectangular and limited to a single plane.
A safety laser scanner, on the other hand, uses a rotating laser beam to monitor a three-dimensional area or field. It continuously scans its surroundings and detects the distance and position of any object entering the safety zone. If someone walks or steps into this area, the scanner triggers a stop signal. Safety scanners are ideal for mobile robots, AGVs (Automated Guided Vehicles), and large-area perimeter protection, where flexible and adjustable coverage is needed.
In short, a safety light curtain protects a fixed, linear opening and is perfect for hand or arm detection, while a safety scanner monitors a wider 2D or 3D area for full-body detection. Light curtains are fast and precise for localized protection, whereas scanners offer broader, configurable safety coverage for dynamic environments. The choice depends on whether you need point-of-entry safety (light curtain) or area-based safety (scanner).