How should you test a safety interlock on the Teach Pendant?

• A. Jog the robot at a very low speed to observe minor movements.
• B. Reset the interlock to test manual override.
• C. Verify that interlock blocks motion when engaged and allows motion when released.
• D. Check that the pendant displays an alarm code.

Answer: (C)

The key idea is to verify the real behavior of the safety interlock: it should physically block motion when the interlock is engaged and allow motion when it’s released. This ensures the operator can safely enter or work in the robot area without the robot moving, and then resume normal operation once the area is secured.

To test properly on the Teach Pendant, engage the interlock (as you would when someone is in the cell) and attempt to jog or move the robot. The motion must be blocked, confirming the interlock is doing its job. Then release the interlock and try to jog again; motion should occur, showing that normal operation returns once safety is restored.

It’s important not to bypass or reset the interlock to test manual override, as that defeats the safety purpose. Merely seeing an alarm code isn’t enough to confirm interlock function; the actual motion-blocking behavior is what matters.