Patent ID: 8322259
Filing Date: 2012-12-04
Classification: B02C,B26D,F16P,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A method of automatically interrupting the operation of a cutting machine, the method comprising: forming a sensor array including a first sensor element and a second sensor element, the first sensor element including a first conductive winding, the first conductive winding wound in a first direction, the second sensor element including a second conductive winding, the second conductive winding wound in a second direction, the first and second conductive windings connected in series opposing; mounting the sensor array on opposing sides of an infeed chute of a cutting machine such that the first sensor element is mounted to a first side of the infeed chute and the second sensor element is mounted to an opposing second side of the infeed chute; moving a magnetic safety device having a magnetic field, proximate to the sensor array; sensing a current induced in the first and second conductive windings by the magnetic field of the magnetic safety device, the current produced by the magnetic field of the magnetic safety device when the magnetic safety device moves proximate to the sensor array; comparing a signal proportional to the induced current to a threshold; and terminating an operation of the cutting machine when the signal exceeds the threshold.