Industrial automation has revolutionized manufacturing, logistics, and other sectors by increasing efficiency, reducing human error, and enhancing productivity. However, the integration of complex machinery and autonomous systems has also introduced new safety challenges. Ensuring the safety of operators, maintenance personnel, and even the machinery itself has become a critical concern as automated systems become more sophisticated. The new IEC TS 61496-5 provides guidelines for the design of electrosensitive protective equipment (ESPE) and this document highlights technical options for designing such ESPE with TI’s mmWave radar technology.

Among the various types of ESPE, radar safety sensors are gaining prominence due to their robustness, accuracy, and ability to function effectively in challenging environments where optical or infrared sensors may fail. The Texas Instruments IWR6843 radar sensor and LP87745 power management integrated circuit (PMIC) are key components in developing radar-based safety systems that comply with IEC TS 61496-5. This technical paper explores the application of these components in both stationary and mobile industrial applications, focusing also on ISO 13849.