Counting device for objects

Abstract

The present invention relates to a counting device (100) comprising: - a wall (102) defining an internal volume; - a counting device (302) for counting objects located in the internal volume and including a measuring lens (304), the measuring lens optically defining a detection area located outside the counting device (100); the wall (102) of the counting device (100) including a window (104), the window: - comprising germanium, preferably entirely composed of germanium, and - located in front of the measuring lens (304), preferably centered on the measuring lens (304); the measuring lens (304) and the window (104) being configured to transmit a stream emitted by objects present in the detection area to the counting device (100).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a counting device preferably installed in a passageway in an urban environment, for counting objects in a passage detection area and / or detecting their passage direction.

[0002] The field of the present invention is preferably the field of devices for detecting passage in passageways in urban environments. Background Technology

[0003] Counting devices are known for counting pedestrians in urban environments. These devices are functional but exhibit several problems, particularly:

[0004] - Deliberate vandalism, which occurs when these devices are within the reach of objects or people moving around on the street;

[0005] - Vulnerabilities related to the measurement system used and / or external environmental conditions;

[0006] - Attenuation of the signal used for measurement, due to the fact that the protection of this type of equipment is often detrimental to the quality of the measured signal.

[0007] One object of the present invention is to overcome at least one of the above-mentioned defects.

[0008] Another object of the present invention is to provide an object counting device:

[0009] - Less susceptible to intentional damage, and / or

[0010] - More reliable and more resistant to external environments, and / or

[0011] - It is more resistant to urban environments without sacrificing the quality of the measurement signal. Summary of the Invention

[0012] The present invention enables at least one of the above objectives to be achieved by means of a counting device, the counting device comprising:

[0013] - Walls that define the internal volume.

[0014] - A counting device for counting objects located within the internal volume, the counting device comprising:

[0015] o A measuring device configured to record and / or detect a stream (preferably with a wavelength of at least 5 to 12 micrometers) emitted by an object present in the detection area toward the counting device, and

[0016] A measuring lens optically defines the detection area located outside the counting device. This lens is preferably assembled to the rest of the counting device via a sealing joint that protects the measuring device from dust and / or moisture from the outside of the counting device.

[0017] The counting device is characterized in that its wall includes a window, the window being:

[0018] - Includes germanium, preferably composed entirely of germanium, and

[0019] - Located in front of the measuring lens, preferably centered on the measuring lens, preferably forming a receiving portion between the lens and the window (the receiving portion is preferably a closed space, and preferably has the shape of a tube whose two ends are preferably closed by a window and by the lens, respectively).

[0020] - Preferably, it is assembled to the rest of the wall via a sealing joint that protects the counting device from dust and / or moisture from the outside of the wall.

[0021] The measuring lens and the window are configured to transmit a stream emitted by an object present in the detection area to the counting device.

[0022] Thus, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, the outer wall (including the window) seals the counting device (and the receiving portion located between the lens and the window) from insects and moisture located outside the counting device according to the invention, while ensuring good transmission of the flow with a wavelength of at least 5 to 12 micrometers detected by the “passive” infrared sensor of the measuring device through the germanium-containing window.

[0023] For windows, germanium is an ideal material, allowing for:

[0024] - The material's excellent durability, and therefore provides good protection against damage and / or intentional vandalism.

[0025] - Good transmission of optical flow with wavelengths of at least 5 to 12 micrometers, even for large window thicknesses, which further improves robustness against damage and / or deliberate vandalism.

[0026] The counting device according to the invention may include a smooth outer surface with no discontinuity between the window and its outer periphery formed in the wall, such that the window does not recess into the interior of the device relative to the outer surface of the wall. Thus, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, the possibility of objects or debris (chewing gum, cigarette butts, etc.) that could obstruct the flow of the measuring device being inserted (especially through deliberate acts of vandalism) into the recess is avoided.

[0027] The measuring lens of the counting device according to the invention may comprise germanium or polyethylene. Polyethylene has good transmission of light flow at a wavelength of at least 5 to 12 micrometers, but is more fragile than germanium: the measuring lens may be made of polyethylene (compared to a window) because the lens is more protected inside the device according to the invention compared to a window.

[0028] The window of the counting device according to the invention may include a protective coating on the side of the window facing the outside of the counting device.

[0029] The protective coating may include a carbonized material, preferably adamantine carbide.

[0030] The window of the counting device according to the invention may have a thickness greater than 1 mm and / or less than 25 mm along the propagation direction of the flow on the optical axis between the window and the measuring lens.

[0031] The window of the counting device according to the present invention can be a lens.

[0032] The counting device according to the invention may include a space along the propagation direction of the flow on the optical axis between the window and the measuring lens, the space having a distance of at least 5 mm between the optical center of the measuring lens and the window located in front of the measuring lens.

[0033] The counting device according to the invention may include an attachment device configured to fix the wall to a support.

[0034] The walls of the counting device according to the invention can be formed into columns, which are connected to the ground supporting the device.

[0035] The measuring lens of the counting device according to the present invention, preferably its optical center, can be located at a distance greater than 500 mm and / or less than 1000 mm, preferably 700 to 850 mm, from the surface of the ground.

[0036] The measuring lens of the counting device according to the invention can be held in a holding device of the counting device, the holding device including at least one first flange in contact with the window.

[0037] The measuring lens of the counting device according to the present invention may include a Fresnel lens. Preferably, the measuring lens of the counting device according to the present invention is a Fresnel lens.

[0038] Fresnel lenses can have a field of view greater than 6 degrees.

[0039] The measuring lens of the counting device according to the present invention may include:

[0040] - A diameter greater than 5 mm and / or less than 25 mm, preferably equal to 12.7 mm, and / or

[0041] - A thickness greater than 0.1 mm and / or less than 4 mm, preferably equal to 1 mm.

[0042] The counting device according to the invention may include a measuring device for recording and / or capturing the flow at a wavelength of at least 5 to 12 micrometers.

[0043] The wall of the counting device according to the invention can be formed by assembling multiple parts, preferably two parts, which are configured to be fixed to each other in a detachable manner.

[0044] The counting device according to the invention may include two windows, each of which comprises germanium, preferably each of which is entirely composed of germanium, and a measuring lens is configured to be located in front of one of the two windows, preferably centered on one of the two windows, depending on two reversible positions of the counting device in the device. Attached Figure Description

[0045] Other advantages and features of the invention will become apparent from the detailed description of the non-limiting embodiments and implementations, as well as the following drawings.

[0046] Figure 1 This is a schematic illustration of a front view of a first non-limiting embodiment of the counting device 100 according to the present invention;

[0047] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a three-dimensional exploded view of the wall of a counting device 100 according to a first embodiment of the counting device according to the present invention;

[0048] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of a first non-limiting embodiment of the counting device 100 according to the present invention;

[0049] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of a second non-limiting embodiment of the counting device 400 according to the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0050] Of course, the embodiments described below are by no means limiting. In particular, variations of the invention that include only a selection of the features described below, isolated from the other described features, are conceivable, provided that such selection of features is sufficient to provide a technical advantage or to distinguish the invention from the prior art. This selection includes at least functional features that preferably have no structural details, or only a portion of structural details, provided that this portion alone is sufficient to provide a technical advantage or to distinguish the invention from the prior art.

[0051] In particular, all variations and all described embodiments can be combined with each other, provided that there is nothing from a technical point of view that would object to such a combination.

[0052] In the accompanying drawings, elements common to multiple drawings retain the same reference numerals.

[0053] Figure 1 , 2 Figures 3 and 4 illustrate a first non-limiting embodiment of the counting device 100 according to the present invention.

[0054] Figure 1 The counting device 100 shown includes:

[0055] - Wall 102 that defines the internal volume.

[0056] - A counting device 302 for counting objects located within the internal volume (in Figure 3 Visible in, but not in Figure 2 (to avoid making the diagram too crowded), and the counting device includes:

[0057] o is configured to record and / or detect a stream (with a wavelength of at least 5 to 12 micrometers) emitted into the counting device 302 by an object present in the detection area, and

[0058] o A measuring lens 304 that optically defines the detection area outside the counting device 100 (in Figure 3 (See in the middle).

[0059] "Flow" refers to light flow or electromagnetic radiation.

[0060] The wall 102 of the counting device 100 includes a window 104, which:

[0061] - Includes germanium, preferably composed entirely of germanium, and

[0062] - Located in front of the measuring lens 304, especially centered on the measuring lens 304, to form a receiving portion (which is a closed space and preferably has the shape of a tube whose two ends are closed by the window 104 and the lens 304, respectively) between the lens 304 and the window 104.

[0063] The measuring lens 304 and the window 104 are configured to transmit a stream emitted by an object present in the detection area to the counting device 302.

[0064] In the following description, the sealing performance of the joint may be defined by its protection class IP XY according to CEI / IEC 60529:1989+A1:1999 (2.1 2:1989 version, merged with 1:1999 amendment), where X is a natural integer equal to 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6, and Y is a natural integer equal to 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 8.

[0065] Lens 304 is assembled to counting device 302 via a sealed joint that protects measuring device 305 from dust and / or moisture from the outside of counting device 302. This sealed joint is an IP XY protection rating joint (according to the aforementioned CEI / IEC 60529:1989+A1:1999 standard), wherein:

[0066] - X is greater than or equal to 4, preferably greater than or equal to 5, preferably greater than or equal to 6.

[0067] - Y is greater than or equal to 3, preferably greater than or equal to 4, preferably greater than or equal to 5, preferably greater than or equal to 6, preferably greater than or equal to 7, for example, a sealing joint with a protection level of IP 43 or IP 45 or preferably IP 67.

[0068] Window 104 is assembled to the remainder of wall 102 via a sealing joint that protects the counting device 302 from dust and / or moisture from the outside of wall 102. This sealing joint is an IP XY protection rating joint (according to the aforementioned CEI / IEC 60529:1989+A1:1999 standard), wherein:

[0069] - X is greater than or equal to 4, preferably greater than or equal to 5, preferably greater than or equal to 6.

[0070] - Y is greater than or equal to 3, preferably greater than or equal to 4, preferably greater than or equal to 5, preferably greater than or equal to 6, preferably greater than or equal to 7, for example, a sealing joint with a protection level of IP 43 or IP 46.

[0071] Thus, the counting device 100 is a device 100 that provides a protective wall 102 to protect the counting device 302 from the influence of the external environment of the counting device 100.

[0072] The counting device 302 is therefore less susceptible to intentional damage because it is protected by its protective housing (the wall 102 of the counting device 100).

[0073] The wall also allows for ensuring the airtightness of the counting device 302. For example, the counting device is protected by the wall 102 from moisture and / or insects that may be contained in or fall into the counting device 302.

[0074] In particular, the window 104, made of germanium, possesses mechanical properties that allow the counting device 100 to guarantee its high resistance to external environmental factors, such as those encountered in urban environments, including severe weather, temperature changes, and mechanical impacts (e.g., less than or equal to 5 joules (J) as defined by electrical protection index IK 08). Thus, the counting device 100 according to the invention is more reliable. The window 104 also ensures the robustness and mechanical protection of the counting device 302. The germanium-made window 104 provides additional protection for the measuring lens 304.

[0075] In addition to its high mechanical strength, germanium causes a slight attenuation of the signal used for measurement. Thus, the setup of the counting device 100 itself allows it to withstand its external environment while ensuring a signal level sufficient for the performance required to count objects.

[0076] For example, germanium can have a hardness of 6 Mohs.

[0077] The measuring lens 304 is an optical component, i.e., a refractive element. The focal length of the measuring lens 304 is greater than or equal to 18 mm and less than or equal to 30 mm.

[0078] Optionally, the counting device 100 includes an attachment device 108 configured to secure the wall 102 to the support 106.

[0079] Figure 1 The support 106 shown is a city post 106, to which the counting device 100 is attached. In a variation not shown, the support 106 could also be a road sign, billboard, or display board. The support 106 can be a portion added to the post or a base fixed to the post (i.e., a support). Thus, the counting device 100 can be directly mounted on various existing urban elements. The counting device 100 can therefore be easily placed in the urban environment.

[0080] Unrestricted, Figure 1 , 2 The attachment device 108 shown in Figure 3 includes:

[0081] - Fixed support 110 configured to contact support member 106, especially urban column 106, and

[0082] - Fastening flange 112 for fastening the fixed support 110 to the city pillar 106.

[0083] In particular, Figure 2The shown fixed support 110 includes an opening 118 at its center, configured to receive a portion of a fastening flange 112. The portion of the fastening flange 112 located in the opening 118 includes a fastening device 126. The fastening device 126 is configured to adjust the diameter of the fastening flange 112 such that the diameter keeps the fixed support 110 against the post 106.

[0084] Figure 1 and 2 The fixed support 110 shown includes a central groove 120 raised over its entire length by a thickness of less than 10 cm and greater than 1 mm, to provide a small usable space between the post 106 and the fixed support 110. This space particularly allows the fastening device 126 of the fastening flange 112 to be inserted into the opening 118.

[0085] Preferably, Figure 1 , 2 The wall 102 of the counting device 100 shown in Figure 3 is formed by assembling a plurality of parts, which are configured to be fixed to each other in a detachable manner.

[0086] Parts of wall 102 can be secured by nesting and / or by using fixing devices.

[0087] Unrestricted, Figure 2 The wall 102 of the counting device 100 shown includes two parts 1021 and 1022 that are fixed to each other by nesting to form the internal volume of the wall 102.

[0088] Therefore, the wall 102 of the counting device 100 is removable, which allows for simplified access to the counting device 302. For example, in the event of a failure of the counting device 302, the operator can go to the site and retrieve the counting device 302 without disassembling the entire counting device 100.

[0089] However, access to the counting device 100 is limited.

[0090] exist Figure 1 and 2 The key 114 is shown. The key 114 is detachably mounted in the locking latch 122 of the counting device 100.

[0091] Locking latch 122 is configured to prevent access to the counting device 302. Specifically, locking latch 122 locks the nesting of two parts 1021 and 1022 of wall 102. Locking latch 122 is configured to be opened only by key 114. Thus, wall 102 of the counting device 100 can only be opened and / or disassembled by key 114.

[0092] One portion 1022 of the wall 102 contacts the fixing support 110 and the fastening flange 112. This portion 1022 of the wall 102 includes a first sequence of holes 134 configured to receive a first fixing device 128 for securing the portion 1022 of the wall 102 to the fixing support 110. In particular, and non-limitingly, the first sequence of holes 134 includes two holes 134 located on the portion of the wall 102 that contacts the fixing support.

[0093] The first fixing device 128 includes at least one screw 128 and a washer, preferably two screws 128 and two washers, each of the screws being configured to be screwed into a second sequence of holes 136 in the fixing support 110.

[0094] The portion 1022 of the wall 102 that contacts the fixed support 110 includes a third sequence of holes 130 configured to receive a second fixing device (not shown) for securing the wall to the post 106. The second fixing device preferably includes a screw.

[0095] The fixing support includes a fourth sequence of holes 138 configured to secure the fixing support 110 to the post 106. Non-limitingly, the fourth sequence of holes 138 includes four holes 138.

[0096] Non-limitingly, the third sequence of holes 130 includes four holes located on a portion 1022 of the wall 102, thus including four fixing devices. These third holes 130 are preferably located at opposite ends of the wall 102. This allows for easy adjustment of the position of the counting device 100 while ensuring that the counting device 100 is securely fixed to the post 106. Figure 1 , 2 The counting device 100 shown in Figure 3 includes three holding devices:

[0097] - Fastening flange 112 for holding the fixed support 100 to the column 106

[0098] - A first fixing device 128 for securing the wall 102 to the fixing support 110, and

[0099] - A second fixing device for directly fixing the wall 102 to the column 106.

[0100] In one variant Figure 1 The counting device 100 shown also includes an anti-theft device 116 for the counting device 302. The anti-theft device 116 is configured to fix the counting device 302 to the post 106 and / or fix the counting device 302 to the wall 102.

[0101] Non-restrictive, such as Figure 1As shown, the anti-theft device 116 simultaneously connects the counting device 302 to the column 106 and the wall 102.

[0102] The anti-theft device 116 is preferably an anti-theft cable or chain that secures the counting device 302 to the post 106 and to the wall 102.

[0103] The anti-theft device 116 can be made of metal, such as stainless steel or aluminum, to prevent rusting.

[0104] Optionally, the counting device 302 includes a fifth sequence of holes 320. In particular, and non-limitingly, the fifth sequence of holes 320 includes four holes 320, each of which is preferably coaxial with the following:

[0105] - The third sequence of holes 130 in the portion 1022 of wall 102 that contacts the fixed support 110, and

[0106] - Hole 138 of the fourth sequence of holes 138 of the fixed support member 110.

[0107] Thus, the second fixing device can be simultaneously inserted into the counting device 302, the wall 102, the fixing support 110, and the column 106. This allows the counting device 302 to be stably located within the internal volume of the wall 102, and also allows for improved fixation of the counting device 100 on the column 106. The fixation of the counting device 100 is therefore further more reliable and performs better.

[0108] When the counting device 302 is located in the internal volume of the wall 102, the portions 1021 and 1022 of the wall 102 are assembled by nesting.

[0109] Preferably, a portion of wall 102 is locked by a key 114 that actuates a locking latch 122 on the portion of wall 102. Preferably, the locking latch serves as a lock, i.e., as a closing device that can only be opened with the key 114. Thus, the combination of the key 114 and the locking latch 122 allows for restriction, in particular, preventing unauthorized personnel from accessing the counting device 302 and / or portions 1021, 1022 of wall 102.

[0110] Wall 102 can be made based on metal and / or plastic and / or natural materials (such as wood). Figure 1 , 2 In the case shown in Figure 3, wall 102 is made of plastic. Figure 1 , 2 The wall 102 shown in Figure 3 has a thickness greater than 1 mm and less than 100 mm, for example, it... Figure 1 , 2 The value in number 3 is 5 millimeters.

[0111] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A sectional view.

[0112] Figure 3 The counting device 100 shows a counting device 302 located within the internal volume of the wall 102 of the counting device 100.

[0113] Figure 3 The counting device 302 shown includes a measuring lens 304.

[0114] In one variant, the counting device 302 may include at least one measuring device 305 for recording the flow to count the number of objects present in the detection area and / or detect the direction of travel of the objects.

[0115] The measuring device 305 includes at least one sensor 306. The at least one sensor 306 may be or may include at least one thermoelectric unit.

[0116] Unrestricted, Figure 3 The sensor 306 of the counting device 302 shown is an infrared sensor, particularly a passive infrared sensor. The sensor 306 of the counting device 100 is referred to as passive because the counting device 100 and / or the counting device 302 do not emit any light flux. In practice, the sensor 306 is configured to detect heat emitted by objects passing through the detection area. The sensor 306 can be, for example, an Excelitas sensor designated PYQ2498.

[0117] The measuring lens 304 comprises germanium or polyethylene.

[0118] Therefore, the measuring lens 304 can be constructed as follows:

[0119] - When the measuring lens 304 is made of germanium, the same material as window 104, or

[0120] - When the measuring lens 304 is made of polyethylene, it is a different material from the window 104.

[0121] Therefore, the measuring lens 304 is configured to be suitable for an environment in which the counting device 100 can be installed.

[0122] When the measuring lens 304 comprises germanium, the focal length of the measuring lens 304 is preferably equal to 25 mm. When the measuring lens 304 comprises polyethylene, the focal length of the measuring lens 304 is preferably equal to 23 mm.

[0123] The measuring lens 304, made of polyethylene or germanium, allows for improved focusing, especially convergence, of the flow on the sensor 306.

[0124] Figure 3The measuring lens 304 shown includes a Fresnel lens 304. Figure 3 The measuring lens 304 shown is in particular a Fresnel lens made of germanium.

[0125] In the case of a Fresnel lens, the measuring lens 304 can be set to include a field of view greater than the following:

[0126] - When the measuring lens 304 is made of polyethylene, 20 degrees (°), preferably equal to 30 degrees, or

[0127] - When the measuring lens 304 is made of germanium, 7 degrees, preferably equal to 15 degrees.

[0128] The measuring lens 304 can therefore include a field of view that depends on the material of the measuring lens.

[0129] exist Figure 1 , 2 In the case shown in Figure 3, the measuring lens 304 is made of germanium. The field of view of the measuring lens 304 is particularly greater than 7° and less than 75°. In the case shown, the field of view of the Fresnel lens is 15°.

[0130] The measuring lens 304 preferably comprises:

[0131] - A diameter greater than 5 mm and / or less than 25 mm, preferably equal to 12.7 mm, and / or

[0132] - A thickness greater than 0.1 mm and / or less than 4 mm, preferably equal to 1 mm.

[0133] exist Figure 3 In the case shown, for a thickness of 1 mm, the measuring lens 304 has a diameter of 12.7 mm.

[0134] The measuring lens 304 includes two refractive surfaces. The first refractive surface is positioned toward the sensor 306, and the second refractive surface is located on the side of the window 104 that leads to the outside of the counting device 100.

[0135] Alternatively, window 104 may be lens 104, i.e., a refractive element. In this case, counting device 100 may include at least two lenses:

[0136] - Measuring lens 304, and

[0137] - Lens 104 associated with window 104.

[0138] In this case, window 104 may have the same focal length as or a different focal length from measuring lens 304. For example, the focal length of window 104 may be 20 mm.

[0139] exist Figure 1 , 2 In the case shown in Figure 3, window 104 is not an optical lens, but rather a layer of glass that allows flow to pass through so that the flow reaches measuring lens 304. In this case, window 104 transmits the flow.

[0140] In one variation, the window 104 of the counting device 100 includes a protective coating on the side of the window 104 facing the outside of the counting device 100. Specifically, this side... Figure 1 The front of the counting device 100 shown is visible. The protective coating thus allows the window 104 to be protected from light radiation, especially sunlight.

[0141] The protective coating may include a carbonized material, preferably diamond-like carbon, also known as Diamond Like Carbon (DLC).

[0142] Therefore, the protective coating is located on the second refractive surface of the measuring lens 304.

[0143] For example, Figure 1 , 2 The protective coating of window 104 shown in Figure 3 is diamond carbon, for example, designated MIL-C-675C, MIL-M-13508C, or MIL-STD-810E.

[0144] The measuring lens 304 may optionally include an anti-reflective treatment on the first refractive surface S1.

[0145] Preferably, the measuring lens 304 is a plano-convex lens. Thus, in this configuration, the first refractive surface can be convex, while the second refractive surface can be planar.

[0146] Alternatively, the protective coating may include a thickness of less than 14 micrometers (µm), preferably 8 to 12 micrometers.

[0147] In the first variant, the transmittance of the protective coating on the second refractive surface can be higher than 85%, preferably higher than 87% when the protective coating is 8 to 12 micrometers.

[0148] In the second variation, the transmittance of the protective coating on the second refractive surface can be higher than 75%, and preferably higher than 80% when the protective coating is 11 to 12 micrometers.

[0149] Preferably, Figure 1 , 2 The window 104 shown in Figure 3 has a thickness greater than 1 mm and / or less than 25 mm along the propagation direction 328 of the flow on the optical axis 312 between the window 104 and the measuring lens 304.

[0150] In particular, Figure 1 ,2 The window 104 of the device 100 shown in Figure 3 has a thickness of 1 mm.

[0151] The thickness of the window allows for effective protection of the counting device 100, especially the measuring lens 304, against mechanical impacts.

[0152] The counting device 100 includes a space 314 along the propagation direction of the flow on the optical axis 312 between the window 104 and the measuring lens 304, the space 314 having a distance of at least 5 mm between the optical center of the measuring lens 304 and the window 104 located in front of the measuring lens 304.

[0153] In particular, Figure 1 The space shown, 314, is 20 millimeters.

[0154] Therefore, the measuring lens 304 is located near the window 104, which maximizes the size of the detection area.

[0155] Space 314 allows the measuring lens 304 to be protected from radiation such as sunlight because the measuring lens is not located directly behind the window 104. Furthermore, space 314 is the necessary space between the measuring lens 304 and the window 104 for optimizing the flow captured through the measuring lens 304, i.e., obtaining the best possible focusing of the flow through the measuring lens 304.

[0156] Preferably, the window 104 facing the measuring lens 304 is centered on the measuring lens 304, so that the entire surface of the measuring lens 304 is protected and / or covered by the window 104.

[0157] The measuring lens 304 of the counting device 100 is located at a distance greater than 500 mm and / or less than 1000 mm, preferably 700 to 850 mm, from the surface of the ground.

[0158] exist Figure 1 , 2 In the case shown in Figure 3, the measuring lens 302, especially its optical center (not shown), is located at a distance of 850 mm (with an error not exceeding ±10 mm) from the surface of the ground.

[0159] The counting device 100 is also configured to detect the direction of travel of objects passing through the detection area.

[0160] The streams captured and recorded by sensor 306 include wavelengths from 5 to 12 micrometers.

[0161] Thus, the counting device 100 is configured to detect any object present in its detection area that generates thermal radiation of 5 to 12 micrometers.

[0162] Therefore, the objects that can be detected by the counting device 100 are, for example, moving or static people, animals, bicycles, and motorcycles.

[0163] The measuring device 305 of the counting device 100 includes a range of less than 20 meters, preferably 1 meter, 4 meters or 15 meters.

[0164] "Range" refers to the visible range corresponding to the maximum distance at which the sensor 306 of the measuring device 305 can detect an object. In particular, the visible range of the sensor 306 is estimated along an axis perpendicular to and extending from the photosensitive surface of the sensor 306 until the sensor 306 no longer recognizes the object.

[0165] Without limitation, the measuring device 305 of the counting device 100 includes three range levels depending on the characteristics of the sensor 306 used, such as 1 meter, 4 meters, or 15 meters.

[0166] Therefore, the counting device 302 may include sensors with different (detection) sensitivities.

[0167] The detection area of ​​the counting device 100 therefore depends on the range of the sensor 306 and the optical characteristics of the measuring lens 304, such as its focal length and its field of view.

[0168] Optionally, the counting device 302, and especially the measuring device 305, includes a sensor plate 318, a sensor 306, and a plate support 322 for holding the sensor plate 318 in the measuring device 305, located on the sensor plate 318. The sensor plate 318 includes electronic cards and elements required for adjusting the signal of the sensor 306.

[0169] exist Figure 3 In one variant shown, sensor 306 may include two separate sensing regions. One of the two regions may be obscured, for example, by a pixel mask 326 disposed above or upstream of one of the sensing regions of sensor 306. Thus, counting device 302 comprises or is composed of elements for counting living beings or objects and / or determining their direction of travel, as described in application FR2899003 A1.

[0170] Optionally, the counting device 302 includes a holding device for holding the measuring lens 304.

[0171] In this configuration, the measuring lens 304 of the counting device 100 is held in a holding device for holding the counting device 302. This holding device includes at least one first flange 308, preferably in contact with the window 104. Such a flange allows for improved sealing of the counting device 100. The holding device of the counting device 302 also includes a seal 310 in the first flange 308, configured to ensure the sealing of the measuring lens 304, for example, by axial compression. For example, the combination of the seal 310 and the first flange 308 is configured to prevent water from entering the internal volume of the wall 102, particularly at the measuring lens 304. The first flange 308 allows for easy mounting of the measuring lens 304 in the counting device 302.

[0172] Thus, the wall 102 of the counting device 100 is a first sealing protection element; it is sealed and protected against external disturbances such as impacts and / or insects. Furthermore, the counting device 100 is configured such that the counting device 302, particularly its outer periphery, ensures the function of a second protective housing for the measuring lens 304 and / or measuring device 305. For example, if the wall 102 of the counting device 100 is damaged, the counting device 302 remains protected by its outer periphery. Specifically, the outer periphery of the counting device 302 forms a sealed housing. The counting device 302 is therefore sealed. The outer periphery of the counting device 302 is greater than 1 mm and less than 25 mm. Exemplarily, the counting device 302 includes a thickness of 4 mm.

[0173] Unrestricted, Figure 3 The counting device 302 shown includes a power supply 324. The power supply may be a rechargeable battery pack or a battery. Of course, in variations not shown, the counting device may be autonomous, for example, based on an inductively powered electromagnetic power supply.

[0174] In one variant, the counting device 100 includes two windows 104, each of which comprises germanium. In this case, each of the windows 104 is entirely made of germanium. The measuring lens 304 is configured to be positioned in front of one of the windows 104, and particularly centered on one of the windows 104, according to two reversible positions of the counting device 302 within the counting device 302. Thus, if the counting device 302 comprises only a single measuring lens 304, the counting device 302 can be inserted into the internal volume of the wall 102 in two directions. Insertion of the counting device 302 is therefore convenient and faster, and the operator mounting the counting device 302 in the wall 102 can easily change its orientation without touching, for example, the attachment device 108 of the fastening flange 112.

[0175] Figure 1 , 2The counting device 100 shown in Figure 3 includes two windows 104 made of germanium located on opposite sides of the counting device 100.

[0176] Unrestricted, Figure 3 The counting device 302 shown, and especially the measuring device 305, also includes two sensors 306 and a single measuring lens 304 facing one side of the counting device 302.

[0177] On the side of the counting device 302 excluding the measuring lens 304, the counting device 302 may include a shield 316. The shield 316 blocks the flow of light toward the measuring device 305, particularly the sensor 306, to protect it from potentially damaging light radiation (infrared, ultraviolet, visible light). The shield 316 is preferably located at the position of the measuring lens 304. The shield 316 may also be held within the first flange 308 of the lens. The shield 316 may include a portion nested within the first flange 308 to block light beams and / or flow into the first flange 308 to protect the sensor 306 from light radiation. Figure 3 In the case shown, the shield 316 and the first flange 308 form a single and unique component. The first flange 308 also includes a seal 310, which directly presses against the first flange 308 because there is no measuring lens 304 located between the seal 310 and the flange 308.

[0178] In a variant not shown, the counting device 302 may include two measuring lenses 304. In this case, the two measuring lenses 302 are preferably located on opposite sides of the counting device 302 to detect objects in two different directions. Each of the two windows 104 is located in front of one of the two measuring lenses 304 and is preferably centered on one of the two measuring lenses 304. In this variant not shown, the counting device does not include the shield 316 as described above. Each of the two measuring lenses 304 may be centered on a corresponding sensor 306 and is preferably held in a first flange, as described in the case where the counting device 302 includes a single window 104 and a measuring lens 304. The two measuring lenses 304 may be centered on the same optical axis 312.

[0179] Therefore, the counting device 302 may include the same number of sensors 306 as the measuring lenses 304. The counting device 302 may include the same number of sensor plates 318 and / or pixel masks 326 and / or plate supports 322 as the measuring lenses 304. Preferably, when the counting device 302 includes two measuring lenses 304, the counting device 302 includes two sensors 306, each of which is configured to capture the flow surrounding one of the measuring lenses 304. Similarly, the counting device 302 may include two sensor plates 318, two pixel masks 326, and two plate supports 322. Figure 3 In the case shown, the counting device includes separate and unique plate supports 322 for two different sensor plates 318.

[0180] Optionally, the counting device includes two pixel masks 326, two sensor plates 318, and a single plate support 322.

[0181] Thus, the counting device can be configured to include elements that allow recording of light flow in both directions, even if only unilateral detection is possible (in the case where cable 316 obstructs sensor 306). The measuring device 305 is uniformly positioned for detecting objects in one direction and / or toward one direction and / or in two different directions and / or toward different directions.

[0182] Figure 1 , 2 The counting device 100 shown in Figure 3 includes a smooth outer surface with no discontinuity between the window 104 and its outer periphery 124 formed in the wall 102, such that the window 104 does not recess into the interior of the device 100 relative to the outer surface of the wall 102.

[0183] Such a setup allows for the restriction of containers that may contain insects, snow, or trash that people might leave behind, such as chewing gum.

[0184] The outer periphery 124 of the window 104, made of germanium, serves as a second flange 124. The window 104 and the outer periphery 124, both made of germanium, are smooth and at the same level. They do not have any extensions relative to each other. The outer periphery 124 is made, for example, of plastic or wood. Thus, only the window 104 is made of a high-cost material to ensure effective protection of the measuring lens 302.

[0185] like Figure 1 , 2 As shown in Figure 3, the optical axis 312 of the measuring lens 302 is parallel to the ground surface, with an error not exceeding ±5 degrees.

[0186] Furthermore, the optical axis 321 of the measuring lens 302 is orthogonal to the displacement direction of the object traveling in the detection area, with an error within ±5 degrees. Therefore, the convection detection by the sensor 306 is more accurate.

[0187] Optionally, the counting device 100 may include a (wired or wireless) communication device (not shown) configured to communicate and / or receive data with a control device (not shown) located outside and / or inside the device 100.

[0188] The communication device can be configured to communicate data of one or more objects detected in the detection area to an information acquisition box, which can communicate with a remote computer network, for example by using a modem or SIM card, via cellular radio communication, to transmit passage data (including, for example, counts and directions) of the detected one or more objects.

[0189] All the data collected can be transmitted and used by one or more users for different purposes, such as displaying the data on a panel, remotely monitoring the collected information, etc.

[0190] The counting device 100 may include a 3G and / or 4G communication module and / or Bluetooth connectivity, and includes a SIM card configured to send collected data, such as object counts and / or traffic directions, to a server on the Internet.

[0191] Therefore, the collected data can be used and presented to the users of the counting device 100.

[0192] The collected data can be sent, for example, automatically or after the counting device 100 receives instructions from the user via an Internet server.

[0193] The sending frequency can be daily, monthly, yearly, or hourly.

[0194] Figure 4 A second example of a counting device 400 according to the present invention is shown.

[0195] Figure 4 The counting device 400 shown includes a combination of... Figure 1 , 2 The counting device 100 shown in Figure 3 contains the same components. Therefore, only those components will be described. Figure 1 , 2 The difference between the device 100 shown in Figure 3 and Figure 3.

[0196] Figure 4 The counting device 400 shown does not include, for example, Figure 1 , 2 The attachment device 108 shown in Figure 3.

[0197] In fact, Figure 4 In this case, the wall 102 of the counting device 400 forms a column connected to the ground supporting the device 400. Thus, the counting device 100 forms a separate and identical component.

[0198] Therefore, the counting device 400 is a direct urban element. The counting device 400 is thus less conspicuous in urban locations (i.e., the urban environment), such as streets or public places. It blends directly into the urban environment. Consequently, the counting device 400 is less susceptible to deliberate vandalism.

[0199] exist Figure 4 In this case, the wall 102 of the counting device 400 is composed of two parts that are detachably fixed. The first part corresponds to the valve 402 and includes the internal volume in which the counting device 302 is arranged. The valve 402 forms the side edge of the column. The second part corresponds to the support cover 404 and forms the upper surface of the column.

[0200] The support cover 404 of wall 102 is configured to be nested and / or secured in the valve 402 of wall 102.

[0201] The wall of device 400 also includes a removable side edge 410. Specifically, the removable side edge 410 is part of the valve 402. The removable side edge 410 is secured to the remainder of wall 102 (especially to the remainder of valve 402) by a third fixing device 412. The third fixing device 412 includes at least one screw 412. Figure 4 In the case shown, the third fixing device includes two screws.

[0202] Unrestricted, Figure 4 The counting device shown is rectangular. Of course, in other variations not shown, the counting device 400 can be cylindrical, square, circular, conical, potato-shaped, etc.

[0203] The wall 102 of the counting device is preferably smooth and there is no discontinuity between the window 104 and the wall 102. In particular, all the outer surfaces forming the wall 102 (the valve 402 and the support 404) are smooth and without material discontinuities, especially without protrusions.

[0204] Such a setup allows for the restriction of the presence of containers that may contain, for example, insects, snow, or trash such as chewing gum left by people.

[0205] In particular, the counting device 302 is more difficult for objects or people traveling in an urban environment to access.

[0206] The counting device 400 also includes two windows 104 made of germanium arranged on the side edge opposite the wall 102, especially the valve 402.

[0207] Similar to Figure 3 The counting device 100 shown Figure 4 The counting device 400 shown includes a single measuring lens 304. Furthermore, the measuring device 305 includes a plate support 322 for arranging and holding two sensor plates 318 and capturing two sensors 306 flowing in two different directions and / or towards two different directions.

[0208] The internal volume of wall 102, especially the valve, is the same as or slightly larger than that of counting device 302 (i.e., not more than 30% larger than that of counting device 302).

[0209] In a first variation, the wall 102 of the counting device 400 may be formed based on wood and / or plastic assembly. In a second variation, the wall 102 of the counting device 400 may be formed based on recycled plastic and / or plastic assembly. Thus, without limitation, the counting device 400 may be constructed with entirely natural materials and / or based on recycled materials and / or commercially available materials. Such a configuration of the counting device 400 allows for assurance of reliability, measurement quality, protection of the counting device 302, and suitability for ecological requirements and / or urban aesthetics.

[0210] Optionally, the counting device 302 is held within the internal volume of the valve 402 by a support cover 404. In particular, the counting device 302 is nested in the support cover 404 to be held within the internal volume of the wall 102, especially within the internal volume of the cavity 402.

[0211] Figure 4 The outer periphery 124 of the window 104 shown takes the form of a second flange 408 for holding the window 104 within the counting device 400. Specifically, the second flange 408 is configured to serve as an interface between the first flange 308 and the window 104.

[0212] The wall 102, particularly the valve 402, includes at least one opening 406 disposed on a side end of the wall 102. The opening is configured to receive the outer periphery 124 of a window 104. The window 104 is arranged against the opening 406 leading to the outside of the device 400. A second flange 408 is located in the opening 406. Thus, the arrangement of the second flange 408 in the opening 406 includes a retaining function to hold the device 400 within the wall 402.

[0213] Non-limitingly, the counting device 400 includes two openings 406 arranged on opposite side ends of the wall 102. Thus, the counting device is also held in the wall 102 by a second flange 408 located in the opening 406. Furthermore, this arrangement allows for the stability and horizontal position of the optical axis 312, particularly its parallelism with respect to the ground surface of the fixed post thereon.

[0214] Of course, the present invention is not limited to the examples described above. Many modifications can be made to these examples without departing from the scope of the present invention as described.

Claims

1. A counting device (100, 400), comprising: - Wall (102) that defines the internal volume. - A counting device (302) for counting objects located within the internal volume, the counting device comprising: A measuring device (305) configured to record and / or detect a flow of light emitted by an object present in the detection area toward the counting device (302) having a wavelength of at least 5 to 12 micrometers, and A measuring lens (304) optically defines the detection area located outside the counting device (100, 400). The measuring lens is assembled to the rest of the counting device (302) via a sealing joint that protects the measuring device (305) from dust and / or moisture from outside the counting device (302). The counting device (100, 400) is characterized in that its wall (102) includes a window (104), the window being: - Including germanium, and - Located in front of the measuring lens (304) to form a receiving portion between the measuring lens (304) and the window (104); - Assembled to the remainder of the wall (102) via a sealing joint, the sealing joint protecting the counting device (302) from dust and / or moisture from the outside of the wall (102). The measuring lens (304) and the window (104) are configured to transmit a stream emitted by an object present in the detection area to the counting device (302).

2. The counting device (100, 400) according to claim 1, characterized in that The counting device (100, 400) includes a smooth outer surface with no discontinuity between the window (104) and its outer periphery (124) formed in the wall (102), such that the window (104) does not recess into the interior of the counting device (100, 400) relative to the outer surface of the wall (102).

3. The counting device (100, 400) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The measuring lens (304) comprises germanium or polyethylene.

4. The counting device (100, 400) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The window (104) includes a protective coating on the side of the window (104) facing the outside of the counting device (100, 400).

5. The counting device (100, 400) according to claim 4, characterized in that, The protective coating comprises a carbonized material.

6. The counting device (100, 400) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The window (104) has a thickness greater than 1 mm and / or less than 25 mm along the propagation direction of the flow on the optical axis (312) between the window (104) and the measuring lens (304).

7. The counting device (100, 400) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The receiving portion forms a space along the propagation direction of the flow on the optical axis (312) between the window (104) and the measuring lens (304), the space having a distance of at least 5 mm between the optical center of the measuring lens (304) and the window (104) located in front of the measuring lens (304).

8. The counting device (100, 400) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The counting device includes an attachment device (108) configured to fix the wall (102) to the support (106).

9. The counting device (100, 400) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The counting device forms a column, which is connected to the ground that supports the counting device (100, 400).

10. The counting device (100, 400) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The measuring lens (304) is located at a distance greater than 500 mm and / or less than 1000 mm from the ground surface.

11. The counting device (100, 400) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The measuring lens (304) is held in a holding device of the counting device (302), the holding device including at least one first flange (308) in contact with the window (104).

12. The counting device (100, 400) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The measuring lens (304) includes a Fresnel lens.

13. The counting device (100, 400) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The measuring lens (304) includes: - Diameter greater than 5 mm and / or less than 25 mm, and / or - Thickness greater than 0.1 mm and / or less than 4 mm.

14. The counting device (100, 400) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The wall (102) of the counting device (100, 400) is formed by assembling a plurality of parts (1021, 1022), which are configured to be fixed to each other in a detachable manner.

15. The counting device (100, 400) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The counting device includes two windows (104), each of which includes germanium, and the measuring lens (304) is configured to be located in front of one of the two windows (104) according to two reversible positions of the counting device (302) in the counting device (100, 400).

16. The counting device (100, 400) according to claim 1, wherein, The window (104) is made entirely of germanium.

17. The counting device (100, 400) according to claim 1, wherein, The window (104) is centered on the measuring lens (304) to form a receiving portion between the measuring lens (304) and the window (104).

18. The counting device (100, 400) according to claim 5, wherein, The carbonized material is adamantite.

19. The counting device (100, 400) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The measuring lens (304) is located at a distance of 700 to 850 mm from the surface of the ground.

20. The counting device (100, 400) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The measuring lens (304) has a diameter of 12.7 mm and / or a thickness of 1 mm.

21. The counting device (100, 400) according to claim 15, wherein, Each of the two windows (104) is made entirely of germanium.

22. The counting device (100, 400) according to claim 15, wherein, The measuring lens (304) is configured to be centered on one of the two windows (104) according to two reversible positions of the counting device (302) in the counting device (100, 400).

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