Kollmorgen Corporation, a global specialist in motion control systems, has recently released version 3.0 of its SafeMotion  Monitor (SMM) firmware, strengthening functional safety capabilities for linear motors and linear axes. The update supports machine builders operating in demanding sectors such as semiconductor manufacturing, battery production and industrial automation, where high levels of safety and precision are essential.

Integrated into AKD2G servo drives and the Kollmorgen 2G Motion System, SMM 3.0 continues to support all motors equipped with HIPERFACE DSL rotary-safe feedback systems. In addition, the update enables AKD2G drives to support EnDat 2.2 safe feedback systems, addressing growing demand for high-performance safety solutions in precision motion applications.

The newly supported EnDat 2.2 protocol delivers dual independent position sensing for enhanced error detection, high-speed serial data transmission for faster cycle times, integrated diagnostics and flexible encoder support for both incremental and absolute feedback. These features allow machine builders to combine performance and safety without compromise.

According to Chris Cooper, Product Management Senior Director at Kollmorgen, implementing functional safety with linear motors has traditionally been complex. The SMM 3.0 firmware addresses this challenge by adding EnDat 2.2 safe feedback support, enabling a complete safety solution while preserving the speed and accuracy associated with linear motor technology.

Kollmorgen’s AKM2G and AKMA servo motors are also available with EnDat 2.2 safe feedback, offering higher performance and accuracy than HIPERFACE DSL for axes requiring functional safety. Together, these components provide a fully integrated motion solution for safety-related applications.

With SMM 3.0, complete motion systems can achieve Safety Integrity Level 3 (SIL 3). While the AKD2G drive has held SIL 3 certification since its introduction, the addition of EnDat 2.2 safe feedback support delivers a matched, end-to-end solution capable of meeting stringent safety standards. This is particularly relevant for high-risk environments such as stage lifting systems and heavy material handling equipment, while also helping systems remain scalable as safety requirements evolve.