Lasermet has successfully completed the installation of a laser safety interlock and monitoring system for the NASA Langley Research Centre.
The project involved the design and integration of a comprehensive laser safety system across multiple laboratories used for space technology, advanced research and development, and aviation advancement.
The project required a coordinated safety solution capable of managing multiple interconnected laboratory spaces while maintaining operational flexibility and personnel protection. Due to vertically connected laboratory areas and multiple different possible laser configurations, the system required advanced interlock logic and continuous monitoring to ensure safe operation across all zones.
Installation Set-up
The installation was carried out across two operational zones: the Lower Rooftop Lab and the Upper Rooftop Lab. Both laboratories were integrated into a unified laser-controlled environment equipped with interlocked access doors, emergency stop systems, override controls, warning indicators, and continuous monitoring through Lasermet’s CaLM System.
TheLower Rooftop Lab serves as the primary operational area and includes three horizontal ports and three vertical ports. Each port was fitted with interlock switches, selector controls, and warning indicators to provide clear operational status. Additional components included emergency stop pushbuttons, interlocked power sockets, the ICS-9 Interlock Safety Controller, and a touchscreen CaLM System interface for real-time monitoring and system control.
The Upper Rooftop Lab contains three laser hatches aligned directly above the vertical ports of the lower laboratory, creating interconnected operational zones between both levels. Safety measures in the upper area included emergency stop devices, warning systems, and integrated interlock logic to maintain personnel protection during operation.
Interconnected Safety System
With both laboratories interconnected, the system requires advanced safety logic to ensure that hazardous conditions in one area would not compromise safety in another. The ICS-9 Controller, Safety Logic Plus System, CaLM System, and associated safety components work together to maintain safe operation across all laboratories.
Operators select the required horizontal or vertical port before operation. When a port is selected, the system automatically returns to ‘Safe Mode’ and must be re-armed before laser operation can continue.
All system functions, including arming and disarming status, are monitored through the CaLM System interface located outside the laboratories.
In addition, a timed override function allows authorised personnel to enter or exit without disarming the system. Access is controlled through a keypad entry system to prevent unauthorised access.
The Lasermet Solution
Lasermet’s solution combined multiple ICS-9 interlock controllers with the Safety Logic Plus (SLP) and the CaLM System to create a coordinated multi-laboratory safety network with centralised monitoring and control. The upper and lower laboratories were interconnected through vertical ports as to maintain personnel safety and ensure the system remains in a safe operational state, Lasermet implemented a coordinated safety architecture.
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