Method for operating a semi-automatic revolving door, semi-automatic revolving door and corresponding computer program product

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for operating a semi-automatic revolving door (1), as well as a corresponding semi-automatic revolving door (1) and a computer program product, wherein a presumed arrival time or departure time of a person (P1; P2) approaching from an approach side (13) of the revolving door (1) is determined by means of a sensor (D5; D6), and on the basis thereof an electrically powered assistance of the revolving door (1) is controlled.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a method for operating a semi-automatic revolving door, a semi-automatic revolving door, and a computer program product that can be used to operate a semi-automatic revolving door. Background Technology

[0002] In the field of revolving doors, sometimes also called rotating doors, there are basically three different types of revolving doors. On the one hand, there are revolving doors that are entirely manually operated by a person pushing them, or revolving doors that are fully automatically operated by a drive and do not require a person to push them; these two types are not intended to be the subject of this disclosure. On the other hand, there are revolving doors that require manual pushing by a person, but at the same time, the person is also electrically assisted in the rotational movement of the door panels via a drive, electrically assisting the person's work. This partial electric assistance for the person can be provided in such a way that the person is electrically assisted throughout the entire rotational movement of the door panels when they are pushed, or by electrically assisting only the initial push itself to overcome the mass inertia of the door panels, after which the person uses their own strength to perform the remaining rotational movement. Such doors with partial electric assistance, on which this disclosure is based, are referred to herein as semi-automatic revolving doors, or more commonly as "low-energy revolving doors."

[0003] Semi-automatic revolving doors require specific conditions. In principle, minimizing energy consumption and preventing unnecessary door rotation is desirable. Additionally, minimizing air exchange and any associated heat exchange between the two door sides—typically between the inside and outside of a building—is also desirable. Therefore, for semi-automatic revolving doors, the basic state is typically set with the door panels stationary and the door not rotating. In the specific case of a double-leaf revolving door, typically, in this stationary basic state, the entry opening is then completely or at least partially closed by the outer edges of the door panels (expanded or widened via additional elements), or the two opposing entry openings are closed by the two existing outer edges of the door panels. However, two characteristics of semi-automatic revolving doors can fundamentally hinder comfortable, and especially seamless, passage through the revolving door, as the outer edges of the entry openings can significantly obstruct access to the interior area of ​​the revolving door and thus impede passage. Revolving doors with more than two door panels may also have the problem of the outer edges of the door panels interfering with the open, theoretically accessible area of ​​the revolving door's entry openings. Furthermore, improper selection of the electric assist activation process for the revolving door can be particularly critical for smooth passage. For example, if the start-up process begins too early, and a person approaching and wishing to enter is still some distance from the door they are manually pushing, that person might mistakenly conclude that the door is not a semi-automatic revolving door, but rather a fully automatic revolving door that has just transitioned from stationary to fully automatic rotational movement. Therefore, that person might assume they also don't need to push the door themselves. However, since the rotational speed or auxiliary torque in a semi-automatic revolving door is only designed to assist manual pushing, the rotational movement driven solely by electric assistance is quite slow and certainly too slow for a person's natural, smooth passage. Therefore, people who draw such a mistaken conclusion often find so-called fully automatic revolving doors frustrating, feeling they rotate too slowly, without realizing that they are actually only semi-automatic revolving doors that require manual assistance in the form of additional pushing. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Against this backdrop, the object of the present invention is to provide a method for operating a semi-automatic revolving door, and to provide a semi-automatic revolving door and a corresponding computer program product, thereby solving the aforementioned problems or at least one of them. In particular, the object is to make the passage through the revolving door as smooth and seamless as possible in order to approach a person wishing to pass through the revolving door, while minimizing energy loss, whether through undesirable heat exchange between the two sides of the door or through excessive undesirable rotational movement of the revolving door.

[0005] This objective is achieved by a method for operating a semi-automatic revolving door having the features of claim 1, or by a method for operating a semi-automatic revolving door having the features of claim 7, by a method for operating a semi-automatic revolving door having the features of claim 13 or claim 14, and by a computer program product according to claim 15. Advantageous configurations are the subject matter of the dependent claims and the following description.

[0006] The key finding here is that human movement can be selectively recorded based on sensors, and the acquired sensor data can be used selectively to optimize the duration of electric assistance based on the start and end times of the electric assistance. According to this recommendation, electric assistance can thus be initiated selectively to minimize the risk of people being misled by fully automatic revolving doors, or terminated selectively to ensure the smoothest possible passage (even for those following behind) and / or to optimize energy consumption. Advantageously, electric assistance can be kept as short as possible to conserve energy and, on the other hand, to minimize potential air and associated heat exchange between the interior and exterior of the building, or to allow subsequent passage by later individuals to begin in an optimized manner.

[0007] In detail, according to a first independent aspect of this disclosure, as described in claim 1, a method for operating a semi-automatic revolving door is provided, comprising at least the steps a) to d):

[0008] a) Provides a revolving door with at least two door panels, a drive, and at least one sensor for recording human movement, wherein the drive is configured to rotate at least two door panels within the passage area of ​​the revolving door.

[0009] b) Record the speed and approach direction of at least one person approaching from the approaching side of the revolving door using at least one sensor.

[0010] c) Calculate the assumed arrival time of a person at the revolving door based on the recorded speed and approach direction.

[0011] d) At a time selected based on the calculated assumed arrival time, activate the electric assist of the drive, thereby initiating automatic, motor-supported rotary movement of at least two door panels, such that the electric assist is activated when a person is about to push the door panel in front of the at least two door panels.

[0012] The term "semi-automatic revolving door" refers to a revolving door that is electrically assisted and must be manually pushed by a person to achieve its intended purpose. A "drive" is a mechanical device that rotates the revolving door panels. A "sensor" is a device that records the movement and / or position of a person. The "passage area" of a revolving door is the area through which people can pass. Due to the rotational movement of the revolving door, the passage area is variable and continuously adjusted. A person enters, in principle, the interior area of ​​the revolving door, which includes or provides the passage area, via the "entrance area." The entrance area is also variable because the outer edge of the door panels temporarily partially occupies the entrance area or divides it into two parts. Essentially, a revolving door has an "entry opening" (or two opposing entry openings) that is fully open, allowing a person to enter the passage area of ​​the revolving door (and thus its interior area) through the entrance area thus formed. Alternatively, the entry openings are separated (or even hidden) by the outer edge of the door panels, allowing a person to enter the passage area of ​​the revolving door (and thus its interior area) through the entry opening on the left or right side of the door panels, and thus through the left or right entrance area thus formed.

[0013] One advantage of this method is that it optimizes the timing of electric assistance to ensure a natural and smooth movement when entering and passing through revolving doors. Another advantage is energy saving by minimizing the time required for electric assistance. Additionally, it reduces air and heat exchange between the interior and exterior of the building.

[0014] Specifically, the electric assist of the rotating door's drive mechanism begins when an approaching person is about to touch the door in front of them to push it. This means that the timing of the electric assist activation is precisely coordinated with the moment a person extends their hand and almost reaches the door. This precise coordination is made possible by calculating the assumed arrival time at the door based on recorded sensor data, allowing the electric assist to activate precisely when the person is almost touching the door. The advantage of this precise coordination is that the electric assist does not start too early, which helps avoid the impression of a fully automatic door and also encourages the person to actually push the door themselves. This prevents misunderstandings and ensures a natural and smooth movement through the door. Additionally, the duration of the electric assist is minimized, saving energy and reducing air exchange between the inside and outside of the building. This requires communication between the rotating door's sensors and control unit. The sensors record, in particular, continuously record, the movement data of an approaching person and transmit it to the control unit, which calculates, in particular, the arrival time in real time and controls the drive mechanism accordingly. Proper real-time communication ensures that the electric assist starts and stops exactly at the correct time. Another advantage of this precise control is the improved user experience, as people perceive the door as smooth and efficient, rather than as reacting too slowly or too quickly. Optimizing assist time not only contributes to energy efficiency and convenience but also to the lifespan of the door mechanism by avoiding unnecessary stress caused by incorrect timing.

[0015] Specifically, based on a calculated assumed time or sensor data, the electric assist to drive is initiated when an approaching person has reached a distance of 70 cm to 120 cm (preferably 90 cm to 110 cm) from the door handle of the door in front of them. This ensures that the electric assist activates at the exact moment the person is about to push the door. This precise determination of the assist timing is based on the assumption that the average arm length of the user is approximately 0.75 m, and that the person is still some distance from the door handle even with their arm extended, or that the arm is typically still slightly bent. The advantage of this implementation is that the electric assist activates neither too early nor too late, meaning the person is not misled into thinking it is a fully automatic revolving door, while allowing for smooth and natural movement. Commonly used sensor techniques or an evaluation of the recorded sensor data can be used to determine the distance. In this way, the recorded person can generally be represented as a point in space with a defined location, making it possible to determine, or at a known or predicted walking speed, the distance to the door handle in the future. By precisely coordinating the approach distance, the time of electric assist is minimized, which achieves energy savings and reduces air exchange between the inside and outside of the building. This is particularly advantageous in air-conditioned buildings because it reduces heat exchange and associated energy loss.

[0016] A calculation example can be used to determine when the electric assist of the drive should be activated. Consider the geometry of the revolving door and the average arm length of the user. Assume the average arm length is 0.75 meters. If the person's moving speed is recorded, it can be calculated based on that speed and the known geometry of the revolving door when the person with the outstretched arm is still some distance from the door handle. For example, if the person approaches at a speed of 1 m / s and considering the geometry of the revolving door, the timing for activating the electric assist of the drive can be calculated such that the door begins to rotate when the person with the outstretched arm is still approximately 20 to 30 cm from the door handle. This ensures that the electric assist is activated in a timely manner to allow for smooth passage through the revolving door, but not too early.

[0017] According to another exemplary embodiment, a method for operating a semi-automatic revolving door includes step e) when a person pushes or continues to rotate a door leaf located in front of them, the rotational movement of at least two door leaves is assisted by a drive so that the person can pass through the revolving door smoothly.

[0018] According to another exemplary embodiment, a method for operating a semi-automatic revolving door includes step f) stopping the auxiliary rotational movement of at least two door panels by the actuator when a person releases a door panel in front of them or has passed through the passageway area of ​​the revolving door. This step ensures that the electric assistance is activated only when actually needed, thus utilizing energy more efficiently. The electric assistance stops once a sensor detects, or an assessment can be made assuming, that a person is no longer in contact with the door panel or has left the passageway area; this can also be set with a desired time delay, or the door may still be able to move further to the desired ending position. In any case, the stopping process is always initiated or triggered by detecting that a person has released a door panel in front of them or has passed through the passageway area of ​​the revolving door. This prevents unnecessary energy consumption and reduces wear on the actuator. Additionally, air exchange between the interior and exterior areas of the building is minimized, resulting in better climate control and energy savings. The revolving door thus remains in optimal operating condition because it is electrically assisted only when a person actually passes through the door or at most for a desired duration.

[0019] Specifically, once a person has completely passed through the passageway area of ​​the revolving door, the actuator stops assisting the rotational movement of at least two door panels. Once the person has completely left the passageway area, the electric actuator either stops or initiates the stopping process (without the desired time delay). The term "passage area" refers to the area inside the revolving door through which the person passes, while "completely passed" means that the person has completely left that area and is now outside the revolving door. In particular, the time delay can be omitted, and the stopping can occur immediately after the person leaves the passageway area.

[0020] According to another exemplary embodiment, the revolving door is specified to have at least one additional auxiliary sensor, which is preferably used to monitor the exit side of the revolving door. The additional auxiliary sensor complements the functionality of an existing sensor that monitors the approach side of the revolving door. This integration of the additional auxiliary sensor optimizes the recording of people's movements by precisely monitoring not only when people approach the revolving door but also when they leave it. This allows for improved control of the electrically assisted drive by optimally assisting and stopping the rotational movement of the door leaf, not only when people approach the revolving door but also when they leave it. One advantage of this additional monitoring is improved door control efficiency, as the electrically assisted drive is activated only when actually needed, resulting in reduced energy consumption. Furthermore, air exchange between the interior and exterior areas is minimized, which in turn reduces heat exchange and thus contributes to better building energy efficiency.

[0021] Alternatively, corresponding auxiliary sensors can be installed on both sides. In principle, both sides can represent the approach side or the opposite exit side, depending on the viewpoint of a person from one side or the opposite side, or from which they pass.

[0022] In principle, the system includes auxiliary sensors for recording human movement, as well as at least one (primary) sensor, and multiple of these (primary) sensors can each be radar sensors or lidar sensors. Such sensors are capable of recording precise movement data and transmitting it to the control unit of the revolving door. It can also be specified that the (primary) sensor on each side (the approach side or the exit side) functions as the primary sensor on the approach side and then as an auxiliary sensor when passing through the revolving door from the other side.

[0023] The use of additional auxiliary sensors increases the reliability and accuracy of door control. When the door rotates in sync with the movement of a person, it improves the user experience and allows for smooth passage.

[0024] Specifically, the additional auxiliary sensor records only the presence of people passing through the passageway of the revolving door and exiting accordingly on the exit side. In this case, the auxiliary sensor can only be set separately from the (main) sensor on that side. The use of this additional auxiliary sensor (specifically, the additional sensor for recording the presence of people passing through the passageway of the revolving door and exiting on the exit side) can then be configured to be more streamlined, so that it only records the presence of people without measuring additional data such as speed or direction. The integration of this auxiliary sensor offers several advantages. First, it enables more precise control of the revolving door's drive by ensuring that the electric assist stops precisely when a person leaves the passageway. This helps save energy, as the drive remains active only for the time required for a person to pass smoothly. Second, this precise control minimizes air and heat exchange between the inside and outside of the building, which is particularly advantageous in air-conditioned environments. The auxiliary sensor works in conjunction with existing sensors that record the approach speed and direction of people, thus complementing the existing sensor system to ensure comprehensive monitoring of both the approach and exit sides of the revolving door. By recording the presence of people on the exit side, the system can determine the optimal time to stop the electric assist, resulting in smoother operation of the revolving door. This not only improves the user experience by enabling smooth and intuitive door movement, but also reduces the mechanical load on the door panels and actuators, thereby extending the service life of components. Overall, the introduction of additional auxiliary sensors contributes to more efficient and user-friendly operation of semi-automatic revolving doors by optimizing the interaction between various components of the system and reducing operating costs.

[0025] Specifically, the presence of a recorded person on the approach side of the revolving door or on the exit side opposite the approach side is used to assist the driver in stopping the rotational movement of at least two door panels.

[0026] In addition, the method for controlling semi-automatic revolving doors is specified to include the following two steps:

[0027] Analyze the motor load values ​​of the drive unit to detect when a person stops independently pushing the door leaf located in front of them; and

[0028] Based on this detection, the electric assist was stopped.

[0029] This is achieved by continuously monitoring the motor load value, which provides information about how much force the actuator must apply to keep the door moving. Once the motor load value drops below a certain threshold, indicating that the person is no longer actively pushing the door, the electric assistance stops. This detection allows for precise control of the electric assistance and helps improve the efficiency of door operation. A desired time delay or condition for the door to continue rotating can also be set. Precise detection of when the person stops pushing the door advantageously improves the user experience, as the door does not stop prematurely, thus avoiding the risk of a sudden stop. Using the motor load value as an indicator of the end of electric assistance ensures that door control is based on accurate and reliable data.

[0030] According to another exemplary implementation, the time when a person is about to push the door includes at least one of the following two times:

[0031] Between 0.001 s and 3 s before the calculated assumed arrival time, preferably between 0.001 s and 2 s, more preferably between 0.001 s and 1 s; and / or

[0032] The assumed entry time for a person into the passageway area of ​​the revolving door.

[0033] The first mentioned timing, or specific time range, ensures that the electric assist of the revolving door is activated precisely and timely for smooth and efficient passageway movement. It is assumed that the arrival time is calculated based on the recorded speed and approach direction of the approaching person, achieved by the revolving door's sensors. This is particularly important because semi-automatic revolving doors are configured to assist human pushing movement rather than completely replace it. If electric assist starts too early, people may perceive the door as too slow, which would compromise the desired smooth passageway. Optimizing the assist timing not only improves the user experience but also minimizes energy consumption, as the electric assist is only activated when actually needed. The second mentioned timing, in turn, means that the electric assist of the drive is activated so that it begins as soon as a person enters the passageway area of ​​the revolving door. The advantage of this implementation is that it precisely determines the optimal time for electric assist, which reduces the likelihood that people will misunderstand the revolving door as fully automatic and expect it to move without their intervention.

[0034] In detail, according to a second independent aspect of this disclosure, as described in claim 7, a method for operating a semi-automatic revolving door is also provided, the method comprising at least the steps A) to E):

[0035] A) Provides a revolving door with at least two door panels, a drive, and at least one sensor for recording human movement, wherein the drive is configured to rotate at least two door panels within the passage area of ​​the revolving door.

[0036] B) Record the speed and approach direction of at least one person approaching from the approach side of the revolving door using at least one sensor.

[0037] C) Calculate the assumed departure time of a person leaving the revolving door on the exit side of the revolving door, opposite to the approach side of the revolving door, based on the recorded speed and approach direction.

[0038] D) When a person pushes or continues to rotate at least two of the door panels located in front of them, the rotational movement of at least two door panels is assisted by an actuator so that the door can be passed smoothly through the revolving door.

[0039] E) Stop the assistance of the drive to rotate at least two door panels at a time selected based on the calculated assumed departure time, such that the assistance to the rotational movement ends when the person is about to leave the passage area of ​​the revolving door.

[0040] The technical features or advantages described in the method for operating a semi-automatic revolving door as first mentioned in claim 1, if technically advantageous, can also be transferred to the aforementioned additional method for operating a semi-automatic revolving door with necessary adjustments, and form an independent implementation of the method, and vice versa.

[0041] According to another exemplary embodiment, the revolving door (again, similarly) is provided with at least one additional auxiliary sensor, preferably for monitoring the exit side. Preferably, the additional auxiliary sensor may be provided to record only the presence of people who pass through the passage area of ​​the revolving door and exit accordingly on the exit side.

[0042] According to another exemplary implementation (of the two proposed methods), a predetermined desired starting position is specified such that the outer edges of at least two door panels are not positioned within the entrance area of ​​the revolving door's entry opening. This means that the door panels stop in a position where they do not obstruct the entrance to the opening. This predetermined desired starting position has several advantages. First, it ensures that the entrance to the revolving door for arriving people is not obstructed by the door panels, increasing the door's comfort and user-friendliness. Second, this predetermined position can help improve the door's energy efficiency. If the door panels are not in the entrance area, air exchange between the building's interior and exterior areas is minimized, which allows for better climate control and energy savings. Third, the predetermined desired starting position also increases safety by reducing the risk of collisions between the door panels and people entering or leaving the door.

[0043] According to another exemplary embodiment (of the two proposed methods), the outer edge of one of the at least two door panels is positioned in a desired starting position, precisely in front of the entrance area of ​​the access opening, preferably directly in front of the entrance area of ​​the access opening. This arrangement of the outer edge of the door panel directly in front of the entrance area of ​​the access opening has several advantages. It ensures that the door panel is positioned so as not to obstruct the entrance to the access opening, making it easier for people to enter and exit. Furthermore, it ensures that arriving persons can enter the passageway area of ​​the revolving door as far as possible, while maximizing the width of the entrance opening and minimizing the path of the door panels that require necessary electric assistance until the person has passed through.

[0044] According to another exemplary implementation (of the two proposed methods), the assisted rotational movement of at least two door panels by the actuator is stopped such that the stop occurs with a time delay, so that even if a person stops rotating the door panel in front of them, at least two door panels are automatically rotated to another desired rotation-stopped position by the actuator. This means that the revolving door's actuator does not immediately stop assisting the door panels when a person stops pushing them, but rather incorporates a short time delay. This time delay allows the door panels to continue rotating to the predetermined position even if the person no longer actively moves the door panels. The advantage of this delayed stop function is that the door panels can be brought to an optimal position that facilitates the entry of the next person, or ensures that the door panels do not remain in a position that blocks the entrance.

[0045] It can be specifically stipulated that, in the desired alternative rotation stop position, the outer edges of at least two door panels are not positioned within the entrance area of ​​the opening. This means the door panels are arranged so that they do not obstruct the entrance to the revolving door when the electric assist ends. Positioning the door panels in the alternative rotation stop position ensures that the entrance to the revolving door remains unobstructed at all times, increasing convenience and user-friendliness. This is especially important in high-traffic areas where a smooth and unobstructed flow of people must be ensured.

[0046] It can be specifically stipulated that the desired alternative stopping position for the rotation is the desired starting position. This desired starting position is a preset position that ensures the door will not stop in the entrance area of ​​the opening, which could potentially obstruct the entry of people behind.

[0047] According to another exemplary embodiment (of the two proposed methods), at least one sensor is specified as a radar sensor and / or a lidar sensor. These specific types of sensors provide a precise and reliable method for recording human movement, which is crucial for optimizing door control. Radar sensors use electromagnetic waves to measure the distance, speed, and orientation of objects, while lidar sensors use light pulses to record precise three-dimensional information about the environment. By integrating these sensor technologies, revolving doors can record the approach speed and orientation of people with high accuracy. One advantage of using radar sensors is their ability to operate unaffected by light and weather conditions, making them particularly reliable in diverse environments. On the other hand, lidar sensors can provide high resolution and accuracy in recording distance and movement, which can improve the detection and tracking of human movement.

[0048] In principle, the applicant's MotionIQ technology can also be used to support tasks of recording and processing sensor data.

[0049] This method may specifically include determining the expectation of at least one person entering a revolving door, preferably by assessing the at least one person's body orientation, body posture, particularly sitting or lying position, facial expression, gestures, and / or direction of observation to determine the expectation of entry. In particular, in the assessment of recorded human movement, those with a determined expectation of entry may be considered with different weights compared to those without a determined expectation of entry. Reference may also be made to European patent application publication number EP4095341A1, which belongs to the applicant and whose contents are incorporated herein by reference. Those skilled in the art will obtain from this application essential information regarding door control and human movement detection, as well as conclusions regarding the expectation of entry.

[0050] Preliminary analysis of the recorded movement of people can be performed in a manner that includes detecting whether a group of people exceeding a predetermined threshold is approaching a revolving door and / or whether people are approaching the revolving door at a speed below a predetermined threshold.

[0051] According to another exemplary embodiment (of the two proposed methods), a revolving door is configured to switch to a first automatic operating mode in which at least two door panels are stationary in a basic state. In this operating mode, the revolving door remains stationary until a person approaches and is detected by sensors. This means the door panels do not rotate continuously, but are activated only when a person approaches and wants to use the door. The advantage of this first automatic operating mode is energy saving, as the actuators are activated only when needed, rather than running continuously. This significantly reduces energy consumption and contributes to sustainability. Additionally, this mode minimizes air exchange between the inside and outside of the building, which is particularly beneficial in air-conditioned environments as it reduces heat loss. Another advantage is reduced wear on the mechanical components of the revolving door, as they are not in continuous motion but are activated only when needed. This extends the door's lifespan and reduces maintenance costs. The basic state of stationary door panels also provides increased safety, as the door panels do not rotate uncontrollably, thus minimizing the risk of accidents or injuries.

[0052] Alternatively or additionally, the revolving door can be configured to switch to a second automatic operating mode, in which at least two door panels are rotated, in principle, by the actuator at a low rotational speed. This second automatic operating mode ensures that the door panels remain in continuous movement, which offers several advantages. On the one hand, the waiting time for people wishing to pass through the revolving door is minimized because the door panels are already in motion and do not need to accelerate from a standstill. This is particularly advantageous in high-traffic areas such as shopping malls, airports, or office buildings where continuous pedestrian flow is expected. On the other hand, the essentially permanent rotational movement at low speed helps optimize the energy consumption of the actuator, as the door panels do not need to continuously accelerate from a standstill, which typically requires more energy. Additionally, this operating mode can extend the lifespan of the revolving door's mechanical components because the load caused by frequent start-stop processes is reduced. In the current context, low rotational speed means: a lower rotational speed than the rotational speed caused by the actuator in the actual assisted state when a person pushes and tries to enter the revolving door, while the comparison variable only means the rotational speed caused by electric assistance in this assisted state, i.e., without a component of rotational speed caused by the person and their pushing. Therefore, the auxiliary torque provided by the drive in the second automatic operation mode is lower than the auxiliary torque provided by the drive when a person passes through the revolving door and pushes the door leaf electrically.

[0053] The option to combine the two automatic operating modes means that a particularly flexible system can be provided.

[0054] According to another exemplary embodiment (of the two proposed methods), the revolving door is specified to have a sensor system that monitors both the approach side and / or the exit side of the revolving door. Specifically, the sensor system may include at least one sensor for monitoring the approach side and at least one additional sensor of the same type, particularly, for monitoring the exit side.

[0055] According to another exemplary embodiment (of the two proposed methods), the generator of the revolving door is specified to store energy in an energy storage unit, particularly energy from the braking process of at least two door panels.

[0056] According to another exemplary implementation of (both proposed methods), the assistance of rotational movement is specified to stop only in the following two cases: first, when an emergency stop is triggered, or second, when the outer edges of at least two door panels are not positioned such that their outer edges are in the entrance area of ​​the revolving door's entry opening.

[0057] It can be specifically stipulated that the auxiliary stop of the rotational movement is configured in such a way that, as long as there is still sufficient energy in the energy storage unit supplied by the generator for the process, at least two door panels continue to rotate until the outer edges of at least two door panels are directly in front of the entrance area of ​​the revolving door's entrance opening; or only until the energy supplied by the generator in the energy storage unit is no longer available or only a predetermined minimum energy is available, at least two door panels and their outer edges rotate out of the exit area of ​​the revolving door's entrance opening.

[0058] According to another exemplary implementation of the two proposed methods, different desired starting positions can be preset. For example, a 0° position can be preferred for a double-leaf revolving door. This position ensures a maximum opening width of 60°. Additionally, the 0° position provides a certain unobstructed depth for the passageway, allowing a person entering to have space to enter the interior area in the rotational direction. Simultaneously, even if the door is further rotated 45°, the maximum opening width of 60° is maintained for a certain period. This allows subsequent persons to enter the same passageway area.

[0059] This can also be preferred when the desired starting position is variable. This variability depends in particular on the recorded sensor data. More preferably, the door panels of the revolving door can be rotated such that the desired starting position is set at the assumed arrival time of the first person or group of people.

[0060] The desired starting position can be adjusted based on the recorded number of people expected to enter. Specifically, for double revolving doors, a 0° position can be set as the desired starting position for a group of up to two people. For a group of more than two people, a 45° position can be set as the desired starting position.

[0061] The assumed arrival time and / or assumed departure time of a person at the revolving door can be calculated multiple times, and the control signals for starting the electric assist and / or stopping the assist can be corrected or adjusted based on the multiple calculations.

[0062] According to another independent aspect of this disclosure, a semi-automatic revolving door as claimed in claim 13 is proposed, the semi-automatic revolving door being specifically configured to perform the methods proposed as described above or below, and the semi-automatic revolving door comprising the following:

[0063] At least two doors;

[0064] A drive unit configured to rotate at least two door panels within the passageway area of ​​the revolving door;

[0065] At least one sensor for recording human movement, wherein the at least one sensor is configured to record the speed and approach direction of at least one person approaching from the approach side of a revolving door; and

[0066] The control unit is configured to calculate the assumed arrival time of a person at the revolving door based on the recorded speed and approach direction.

[0067] According to the proposal, the control unit is also configured to activate the electric assistance of the drive at a time selected based on a calculated assumed arrival time, such that the electric assistance is activated when a person is about to push the door in front of them, thereby initiating automatic, motor-assisted rotary movement of the at least two door panels. Furthermore, according to the proposal, the drive is configured to assist the rotary movement of the at least two door panels as the person pushes or continues to rotate the door in front of them, so as to enable smooth passage through the revolving door.

[0068] Furthermore, according to another independent aspect of this disclosure, a semi-automatic revolving door as described in claim 14 is proposed, the semi-automatic revolving door being specifically configured to perform the methods proposed as described above or below, and the semi-automatic revolving door comprising the following:

[0069] At least two doors;

[0070] A drive unit configured to rotate at least two door panels within the passageway area of ​​the revolving door;

[0071] At least one sensor for recording human movement, wherein the at least one sensor is configured to record the speed and approach direction of at least one person approaching from the approach side of a revolving door; and

[0072] The control unit is configured to calculate the assumed departure time of a person from the revolving door on the exit side of the revolving door, which is opposite to the approach side of the revolving door, based on the recorded speed and approach direction.

[0073] According to the recommendations, the actuator is configured to assist the rotational movement of at least two door panels as a person pushes or continues to rotate the door panel in front of them, so as to enable smooth passage through the revolving door. Furthermore, according to the recommendations, the control unit is also configured to stop the actuator's assistance in the rotational movement of at least two door panels when a person releases the door panel in front of them or has already passed through the passageway area of ​​the revolving door.

[0074] According to another independent aspect of this disclosure, a computer program product as claimed in claim 15 is provided, the computer program product comprising instructions that cause the proposed semi-automatic revolving door as described above or below to perform the method steps as described above or below according to the proposed method. The computer program product is designed to operate the proposed semi-automatic revolving door as described above or below.

[0075] Features described above or below that relate only to one type of subject matter of the invention, such as features relating only to a method for operating a semi-automatic revolving door, may be transferred in a technically meaningful manner, for example, in the form of a semi-automatic revolving door, to other subject matters of the claims, and form an additionally proposed configuration. The proposed revolving door or components thereof may be configured to perform the described method steps. Features may also be transferred in a technically meaningful manner between a subordinate independent method subject matter or a semi-automatic revolving door, and in each case form an independent exemplary embodiment.

[0076] Revolving doors preferably have two doors (so-called double-leaf revolving doors), or three doors (so-called triple-leaf revolving doors), or four doors (so-called quadruple-leaf revolving doors). Attached Figure Description

[0077] Further advantageous and preferred configurations will become apparent from the following description with reference to the accompanying drawings. The drawings (which show only exemplary embodiments) illustrate:

[0078] Figure 1 This is an isometric view of a four-panel revolving door according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0079] Figure 2 It is a schematic top view of four revolving doors, i.e., according to view a), the four revolving doors are in a first position, in which a person is in the area surrounding the revolving doors, and according to view b), the four revolving doors are in a second position, in which the revolving doors are further rotated, compared to the position according to view a).

[0080] Figure 3It is a schematic top view of three revolving doors, i.e., according to view a), the three revolving doors are in a first position, in which a person is in the area surrounding the revolving doors, and according to view b), the three revolving doors are in a second position, compared to the position according to view a), the revolving doors are further rotated;

[0081] Figure 4 It is a schematic top view of a double revolving door, i.e., according to view a), the double revolving door is in a first position in which a person is in the area surrounding the revolving door, and according to view b), the double revolving door is in a second position in which the revolving door is further rotated compared to the position according to view a).

[0082] Figure 5 Here is a flowchart of the proposed method; and

[0083] Figure 6 This is a flowchart of another proposed method. Detailed Implementation

[0084] Figure 1 An isometric view of a revolving door 1 is shown. The revolving door 1 includes a rotating gate 2. The rotating gate 2 has four door panels 3. Each door panel 3 is at a 90° angle to the others. The rotating gate 2 is arranged to be rotatable about a rotation axis A. The rotation axis A extends in the axial direction z. The radial direction r is defined as perpendicular to the axial direction z. The circumferential direction u is defined as about the axial direction z. In principle, the revolving door 1 can be configured to rotate in two opposite rotational directions relative to the circumferential direction u. In the current exemplary embodiment shown in the description of the figures, the revolving door 1 is configured to rotate counterclockwise when viewed in a top view (see figure). Figures 1 to 4 The rotation direction v in the middle.

[0085] Revolving doors 1 are typically installed in walls 4 that are the exterior walls of a building, or in walls that separate two areas of a building (see [reference]). Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 And provides a passage between the inner side 5 of the building and the outer side 6 of the building (or the two building areas). For this purpose, the revolving door 1 provides an entry opening 7 in its inner area, through which a person enters the passage area 7a, and as the door leaf 3 rotates in the rotation direction v, the passage area 7a is adjusted for the person entering in such a way that the person can exit the inner area of ​​the revolving door 1 again on the other side.

[0086] A drive 8 is mounted on the rotating gate 2 to automatically rotate the gate leaf 3. The drive 8 can be designed as an electronically commutated multi-pole motor, wherein one rotor of the drive 8 can be coaxially connected to the rotating gate 2 with the rotating shaft A. This allows the drive 8 to directly drive the rotating gate 2 without gears.

[0087] like Figure 1 As can be seen, the entrance opening 7 is laterally defined by the left end edge 9 and the right end edge 10 of the revolving door 1. The entrance area 11 for entering the interior area of ​​the revolving door 1 is substantially defined by these end edges 9, 10 and the upper end edge of the revolving door 1, and is often defined at the bottom by the floor, and can occupy up to the entire width of the entrance opening 7. However, this entrance area 11 is variable and can be partially concealed by the outer edge 12 of the door leaf (or sash) 3, or the outer edge 12 can divide the entrance area 11 into a left entrance area 11 and a right entrance area 11 when the revolving door 1 or the door leaf (or sash) 3 is in certain positions, as per [reference to a specific location]. Figure 1 The representation of the corresponding position of revolving door 1, and Figure 2 and Figure 3 The same situation applies in view b). Figure 4 In view b), even in the case of a double revolving door 1, the outer edges 12 of the two door leaves 3, which are widened by the attachment, completely block the two entrance openings 7 (one at the bottom and one at the top) in the position shown in the revolving door 1, and therefore no longer divide them into an accessible left entrance area 11 and a right entrance area 11.

[0088] In principle, the variable inlet region 11 can be defined by a corresponding opening angle. According to... Figure 1 Four door panels 3 are provided, forming a 90° angle between every two adjacent door panels 3. The entrance openings 7 of the four revolving doors 1 are selected such that they provide an entrance area 11 with a maximum opening angle of 90°. Figure 2 In view a), the resulting open entrance area 11 with the corresponding opening angle is indicated by a dashed line and is also 90° in this view.

[0089] Similarly, Figure 2 View b) shows how two entrance areas 11 of equal size are set up, each entrance area 11 having an opening angle of 45° (see dashed line) and separated by a door 3 that divides the entrance opening 7 at the center of the bottom in the illustration and at the corresponding position of the revolving door 1.

[0090] Therefore, according to Figure 2The position of view a) can also be described as the 0° position of the four revolving doors, which is also the desired starting position of the revolving door 1. This is because in this 0° position, the entrance area 11 is as large as possible and can be optimally used for the access passage area 7a for arriving people. In the desired starting position in the form of the 0° position, the four door leaves 3 are not all positioned such that their outer edges 12 are located in the entrance area 11 of the entrance opening 7 of the revolving door 1, or in two entrance areas 11 (or two entrance openings 7, because according to Figure 2 The above illustration also shows unmarked entry openings for entry from the corresponding opposite sides. Specifically, in the desired starting position shown, when viewed in the rotation direction v, the outer edge 12 of the door leaf 3 is positioned immediately in front of or immediately behind the entrance area 11 of the entry opening 7.

[0091] according to Figure 2 Starting from the 0° position in view a), all subsequent positions can be described if the door leaf 3 rotates further in the rotation direction v. Therefore, the position according to view b) can be described as the 45° position, and all intermediate positions along the way can be described as the 1° position, 2° position, etc. According to view b), all positions after the 45° position in the rotation direction can be described as positions from 46° to 89°, because the assumed 90° position is again the new 0° position, which corresponds to the position according to view a), except that the door leaf 3, which was previously (in view a) positioned directly in front of the entrance area 11 leading to the opening 7, is now assumed to be positioned directly behind the entrance area 11 leading to the opening 7.

[0092] According to Figure 3In a three-leaf revolving door 1 with three door panels 3, two adjacent door panels each form an angle of 120°. The entrance opening 7 is configured such that the maximum opening angle is set to 60° for entry, where this 60° opening angle can now be set over a longer range of rotation. View a) shows the desired starting position of the three-leaf revolving door 1, which can also be described as a 0° position. From this position to the position shown in view b), the door panels 3 are further rotated 30°. Thus, view b) shows the 30° position and again shows two smaller entrance areas 11, each with an opening angle of only 15°. In a position not shown (which is further rotated another 15°, i.e., the 60° position), a single entrance area 11 is again formed with an opening angle of 60°. In this 60° position, the door panel 3 (in view a), i.e., the desired starting position, where the door panel 3 is still positioned directly in front of the entrance area 11 of the entrance opening 7) is now positioned directly behind the entrance area 11 of the entrance opening 7. For the other positions following 59°, namely 61° up to 119°, the entrance area 11 remains maximally open. A 120° position, virtually existing as seen from view b), further rotated by 60° or 75°, is also the new 0° position, in which the entrance area 11 is again maximally open, and this position can again be considered the desired starting position for the smaller entrance opening 7.

[0093] According to Figure 4 In the double-leaf revolving door 1 with two door panels 3, the two door panels extend in a straight line such that they form an angle of 180° between them. The entrance opening 7 is again configured such that the maximum opening angle is set to 60° for entry, where this 60° opening angle can also be set over a longer range of rotation. View a) shows the double-leaf revolving door 1 at the 0° position. From this position to the position shown in view b), the door panels 3 are further rotated 90°. Therefore, in view b), the 90° position is shown, and due to the wide outer edge 12, a clear entrance area 11 is not formed, but is completely blocked.

[0094] according to Figure 4 The desired starting position of the double-leaf revolving door 1 is not shown, but a position is shown that is rotated only 45° further from view a), that is, if both outer edges 12 are arranged such that their foremost regions are directly in front of the entrance region 11 leading to the opening 7 when viewed in the rotation direction v, then the double-leaf revolving door 1 is in the 45° position. The maximum opening angle here is 60°, and a person can also enter the passage region 7a in the rotation direction until reaching the next door leaf 3.

[0095] According to another exemplary embodiment, different desired starting positions can also be preset for all the revolving doors 1 shown and described. The example of the double-leaf revolving door 1 particularly clearly shows that setting the 0° position as the desired starting position can also be preferred, because it ensures a maximum opening width of 60°, and at the same time, there is a certain unobstructed depth of the passage area 7a, so that a person entering has space to enter the inner area in the rotation direction v, but at the same time, it ensures a maximum opening width of 60° for a certain additional time (i.e., a further rotation of another 45°) so that others following behind can enter the same passage area 7a if necessary.

[0096] Therefore, it may be particularly preferred if the desired starting position is variable, especially if it depends on the recorded sensor data. More preferably, the door leaf 3 can rotate in such a way that the desired starting position is set at the assumed arrival time of the first person among one or more people. More preferably, the desired starting position can be adjusted according to the recorded number of people expected to enter. In particular, for a double revolving door 1, it may be preferable to set the 0° position as the desired starting position for a group of up to two people expected to enter, and the 45° position as the desired initial position for a group of more than two people expected to enter.

[0097] In principle, it can be stipulated that the assumed arrival time for a group of people expected to enter is determined based on the recorded speed and approach direction of the person who is assumed to arrive at revolving door 1 the fastest.

[0098] For those who wish to enter (i.e., according to, for example, based on) Figure 2 The arrival of people P1 and P2) at the revolving door 1 in view a) of the view in view a), once they have left the entry opening 7, the opening angle available for people P1 or P2 to pass through the entrance area 11 and thus through the entry opening 7 can also be referred to as the entry opening angle α1. This entry opening angle α1 is defined between the end of the outer edge 12 of the door leaf 3 located in front when viewed in the rotation direction v, and the end edge of the revolving door 1 located in front when viewed in the rotation direction v (i.e., the right end edge 10 in this case). However, this only applies if the door leaf 3 is also in the corresponding rotational position in the area of ​​the entry opening 7 and the outer edge 12 is not present in the area of ​​the entry opening 7. Then, the two end edges 9, 10 simply define the current entry opening angle α1, which then corresponds to the maximum possible opening angle.

[0099] For illustrative purposes, the following references are provided. Figures 2 to 4 Views a) and b) and refer to the following view showing the situation entering opening 7: Figure 2 In view a), the current entry opening angle α1 is 90°; in view b), it is 45°. Figure 3 In view a), the current entry opening angle α1 is 60°; in view b), it is 30°. Figure 4 In view a), the current entry opening angle α1 is 60°; in view b), it is 0° because the outer edge 12 of the door 3 blocks the entry opening 7. Furthermore, the corresponding entry opening angle α1 of the upper entry opening 7 (not explicitly shown) is quantitatively the same as the entry opening angle of the lower entry opening 7.

[0100] The approach side 13 and exit side 14 of the revolving door 1 can always be positioned relative to a person (e.g., Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 The specific entry or passage of people P1, P2, P3, and P4 in view a) is defined by the specific circumstances of their entry or passage. People P1, P2, P3, and P4 can enter from the approach side 13 (in... Figures 2 to 4 In the case of the outside of the building 6), approach the revolving door 1 so that on the other side (i.e., the inside of the building 5), pass through the revolving door 1, and thus through the exit side 14.

[0101] Specifically, human movement can, in principle, be recorded by sensor D5 in recording area E5 (marked by dashed lines) and sensor D6 in recording area E6 on the proximity side. This means that, in the case shown, the movement of person P4 cannot yet be recorded. The movements of people P1, P2, and P3 can be recorded and analyzed. The corresponding arrows indicate vectors in the sense of movement vectors, which represent the velocity and approach direction of the corresponding person P1, P2, or P3. Based on the recorded sensor data, it can be concluded that person P3 is moving away from revolving door 1 and therefore may not want to enter. Only people P1 and P2 are moving towards revolving door 1, and it can be assumed that they want to enter.

[0102] First, it can be determined that person P1 will likely arrive at revolving door 1 first, because firstly, they are located closer to (below) the entrance opening 7, and secondly, they move faster (indicated by the larger vector arrow).

[0103] To illustrate the advantages of the proposed method, please refer to... Figures 2 to 4 And can also refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 Each method is illustrated with a flowchart.

[0104] In step S100, a revolving door 1 with at least two door leaves 3 is initially provided (as is already apparent from the preceding description, in...). Figure 1 and Figure 2 The example shown is a four-leaf revolving door 1 with four door panels 3; in the example of a three-leaf revolving door 1 with three door panels 3 (see... Figure 3In the case of a double-leaf revolving door 1 with two door panels 3, and after the actuator 8 and at least one sensor D5 or D6 for recording human movement (wherein the actuator 8 of the revolving door 1 is capable of rotating at least two door panels 3 within the passage area 7a of the revolving door 1), human movement is recorded as described above as part of step S200. For this purpose, at least one sensor D5 or D6 records human movement in its corresponding recording area E5 or E6, and in particular, records the speed and approach direction of at least one person P1 or P2 approaching from the approach side 13 of the revolving door 1.

[0105] Then, according to such Figure 5 In the proposed variation of the method, in step S300, the assumed arrival time of person P1 or P2 at revolving door 1 is calculated based on the recorded speed and approach direction. Specifically, the assumed arrival time can be calculated for both person P1 and P2. However, it is also possible to preliminarily infer which person is expected to arrive at the door first, in this case person P1, and calculate only their assumed arrival time. In any case, where the assumed arrival time is relied upon, control of revolving door 1 should generally be based on the assumed arrival time of the first person P1.

[0106] According to Figure 5 The method is the opposite, based on Figure 6 In the proposed method, instead of performing the aforementioned step S300, step 350 calculates the assumed departure time of person P1 or P2 from the exit side 14 of revolving door 1 based on the recorded speed and approach direction. If multiple predictable departure times exist, the latest assumed departure time can be used as the basis for further control.

[0107] In addition to speed and approach direction, the recorded position of person P1 or P2 is also included in the two types of calculations mentioned above. In principle, the applicant's Motion IQ technology can be used. The area in front of the revolving door 1 is monitored using the corresponding technology, which monitors the recording area E6 or E5 in front of the door via sensor D6 or D5 and calculates the arrival time based on the direction and speed of movement of person P1 or P2. Similarly, this technology can also be used to calculate departure time, where an assumption can be made about how long person P1 or P2 typically needs to pass through revolving door 1, and this assumption can be made based on the person's speed.

[0108] According to the re-in Figure 5In step S400 of the variant of the implementation shown in the diagram, the electric assistance of the drive 8 is activated, and thus the automatic, motor-assisted rotational movement of at least two door panels 3 is also activated. This activation occurs at a time selected based on a calculated assumed arrival time, such that the electric assistance is activated just as person P1 or P2 is about to push the door panel 3 located in front of them among the at least two door panels 3.

[0109] The time when person P1 or P2 is about to push door leaf 3 can be understood as the time when person P1 or P2 is about to reach out and touch door leaf 3. This can be predefined for use in operating this method. According to the definition, this time can include the following:

[0110] Between 0.001 s and 3 s before the calculated assumed arrival time, preferably between 0.001 s and 2 s, and more preferably between 0.001 s and 1 s;

[0111] And / or

[0112] The assumed entry time of person P1 or P2 into passage area 7a of revolving door 1.

[0113] Different values ​​can be included in the determination. The geometry of the revolving door can be used in particular for this purpose, especially the diameter of the revolving door 1 or the size of the door leaf 3 and the arrangement of the door handles. In addition, predefined, such as typical arm movement speed and / or predefined, such as typical arm length, of the average user can be used as a basis to estimate the optimal possible time based on the recorded speed and approach direction of person P1 or P2.

[0114] The corresponding values, such as the geometry of the revolving door, can also be used to determine the assumed arrival time of person P1 or P2 at revolving door 1.

[0115] The goal is to activate the electric assist as late as possible, but before person P1 or P2 can independently move the door leaf 3 in a rotating position without the electric assist.

[0116] Preferably, the maximum preset electric assistance is provided when the expected person P1 or P2 reaches out to touch the door leaf 3. This could mean that the electric assistance for rotational movement has been activated at a certain advance time, so that the desired full assistance power is available when person P1 or P2 also rotates the door leaf 3.

[0117] By definition, the moment when person P1 or P2 is about to push the door leaf 3 located in front of them can also include a type of safety factor, where, for example, the moment has arrived when it is calculated that person P1 or P2 is only at a distance of at most 0.5 m, preferably at most 0.4 m, more preferably at most 0.3 m, and more preferably at most 0.2 m from door leaf 3. The expression "at a distance of at least 0.5 m from door leaf 3..." can be understood as meaning the distance between the person and the corresponding door leaf 3 plus an assumed extended arm length. For example, the assumed extended arm length can be preset to 0.75 m. The arm length can also be estimated based on recorded sensor data and included separately in the calculation.

[0118] After step S400, according to Figure 5 In one implementation, as part of step S500, as person P1 or P2 pushes or continues to rotate the door leaf 3 located in front of them, the drive 8 assists the rotational movement of at least two door leaves 3 so that they can smoothly pass through the revolving door 1. Person P1 or P2 therefore does not push the door leaves 3 entirely by their own strength, but the rotational movement is assisted by a motor. Such electric assistance for the entire rotational movement is not necessarily required. Therefore, according to another implementation, it is also contemplated that electric assistance is provided only at the beginning so that person P1 or P2 can more easily push the door leaves 3 by overcoming the mass inertia of the door leaves 3, thereby allowing person P1 or P2 to then utilize their own strength and perform the remaining rotational movement without electric assistance.

[0119] According to Figure 6 In the implementation, as described in principle, when person P1 or P2 pushes or continues to rotate the door leaf 3 located in front of them, the rotational movement of at least two door leaves 3 electrically assisted by the actuator 8 to enable smooth passage through the revolving door 1 occurs immediately after step S350 as part of step S450. Incidentally, according to Figure 6 In some implementations, the order of steps S450 and S350 can be reversed, and the auxiliary step can occur before (or even simultaneously with) the calculation.

[0120] according to Figure 6 A key feature of this implementation is that, finally, as part of step S550, the actuator 8 stops again its assistance in the rotational movement of at least two door panels 3. Specifically, it stops at a time selected based on a calculated assumed departure time, such that the assistance in the rotational movement ends again just as person P1 or P2 is about to leave the passage area 7a of the revolving door 1. This allows for the electric assistance to be stopped as early as possible, thereby achieving energy-efficient operation of the revolving door 1 on the one hand, and avoiding unnecessary heat loss caused by air exchange between the inner side 5 and the outer side 6 of the building on the other.

[0121] In such Figure 5In a variation of the method described herein, it is also envisioned that after step S500, the assistance provided by the driver 8 to the rotational movement of at least two door panels 3 can be readjusted as automatically as possible. For example, similar to that according to Figure 6 A variation thereof, specifically, is that the time selected based on the calculated assumed departure time, such that the assistance for rotational movement ends again when person P1 or P2 is about to leave the passage area 7a of the revolving door 1.

[0122] However, it is also envisioned that when person P1 or P2 releases the door leaf 3 located in front of them or has passed through, for example, the passage area 7a of the revolving door 1 completely, the auxiliary rotational movement of at least two door leaves 3 by the actuator 8 shall cease. Additional auxiliary sensors, such as auxiliary sensor D5b monitoring the exit side 14 of the revolving door 1 (see... Figures 2 to 4 This can be used for this purpose. Advantageously, this can then be an auxiliary sensor D5b, which is as simple as possible and only records the presence of a person P1 or P2 who passes through the passage area 7a of the revolving door 1 and leaves accordingly at the exit side 14.

[0123] Another alternative for setting the electric assist to stop (which can be combined with the above-described method of recording presence on exit side 14 for this purpose) is to analyze the motor load value of drive 8 to detect when person P1 or P2 stops actively pushing the door 3 in front of them with their own force. The electric assist can then be stopped based on this detection.

[0124] according to Figure 5 and Figure 6 Both, as part of step S100 or S500 or S550, can also set a desired starting position for the revolving door 1, i.e., after person P1 or P2 has passed through and before the electrically assisted stop of the rotational movement of the revolving door 1. Preferably, the desired starting position is preset such that at least two door panels 3 and their outer edges 12 are not located in the entrance area 11 of the entrance opening 7 of the revolving door 1. In this way, entry into the passage area 7a of the revolving door 1 can be particularly smooth and seamless, without the risk of colliding with the outer edges 12 or having to wait unnecessarily in front of the revolving door 1. It is also preferred that the outer edge 12 of one of the at least two door panels 3 is positioned exactly in front of, or more preferably directly in front of, the entrance area 11 of the entrance opening 7 in the desired starting position. This allows the widest possible entry area to be provided directly into the passage area 7a and minimizes the time required for person P1 or P2 to pass through.

[0125] exist Figure 5 and Figure 6 The method represented in the middle and as described above, or according to Figures 1 to 4In the corresponding revolving door 1, an electric assist to stop the rotational movement of the door panels 3 can be preset. Specifically, the assistance to stop the rotational movement of at least two door panels 3 by the drive 8 can be performed, for example, such that the stop occurs with a certain time delay, so that even if people P1 or P2 no longer continue to rotate the door panels 3 in front of them, at least two door panels 3 are automatically rotated to another desired rotational stop position by the drive 8. This stop position can be defined such that in the desired other rotational stop position, the outer edges 12 of at least two door panels 3 are not arranged in the entrance area 11 of the opening 7. It can be specifically specified that the desired other rotational stop position is the desired starting position described above.

[0126] The proposed revolving door 1, as represented and described, can operate in different modes. In this way, the revolving door 1 can be configured to switch to a first automatic operating mode, in which at least two door panels 3 are stationary in their basic state. This means that the door panels 3 do not rotate automatically but are currently in a stationary position. Furthermore, the revolving door 1 can be configured to switch to a second automatic operating mode, in which at least two door panels 3 are, in principle, permanently rotated at a low rotational speed by the actuator 8. In the present case, a low rotational speed means that it is lower than the rotational speed induced by the actuator 8 in the actual assisted state when a person pushes and tries to step through the revolving door 1, while the comparison variable only refers to the rotational speed induced by electric assistance in this assisted state, i.e., without any additional rotational speed component caused by the person and their pushing. Therefore, the auxiliary torque provided by the actuator 8 in the second automatic operating mode is lower than the auxiliary torque provided by the actuator 8 when a person is assisted by the actuator 8 while passing through the revolving door 1 and pushing the door panels 3.

[0127] List of reference numerals

[0128] 1 Revolving door

[0129] 2 Revolving gate

[0130] 3 doors

[0131] 4 walls

[0132] 5. Interior of the building

[0133] 6. Exterior of the building

[0134] 7. Enter the opening

[0135] 7a Channel Area

[0136] 8 drives

[0137] 9. Left edge

[0138] 10 Right end edge

[0139] 11 Entrance Area

[0140] 12 (Outer edge of the door leaf)

[0141] 13 Approaching side

[0142] 14 Exit Side

[0143] D5; D6 sensor

[0144] D5b auxiliary sensor

[0145] E5; E6 Recording Area

[0146] A rotating axis

[0147] z-axis

[0148] r radial

[0149] u circumferential direction

[0150] v Rotation direction

Claims

1. A method for operating a semi-automatic revolving door (1), comprising the following steps: a) Provides a revolving door (1) having at least two door panels (3), a drive (8) and at least one sensor (D5; D6) for recording human movement, wherein the drive (8) is configured to cause the at least two door panels (3) to rotate within a passage area (7a) of the revolving door (1); b) Record the speed and approach direction of at least one person (P1; P2) approaching from the approach side (13) of the revolving door (1) using the at least one sensor (D5; D6); c) Calculate the assumed arrival time of the person (P1; P2) at the revolving door (1) based on the recorded speed and approach direction; d) At a time selected based on the calculated assumed arrival time, the electric assistance of the drive (8) is activated, thereby initiating the automatic, motor-assisted rotational movement of the at least two door panels (3) such that the electric assistance is activated when the person (P1; P2) is about to push the door panel (3) in front of them of the at least two door panels (3).

2. The method according to claim 1, comprising the following steps: e) When the person (P1; P2) pushes or continues to rotate the door leaf (3) located in front of them, the actuator (8) assists the rotational movement of the at least two door leaves (3) so that they can pass smoothly through the revolving door (1).

3. The method according to claim 2, comprising the following steps: f) When the person (P1; P2) releases the door leaf (3) in front of them or has passed through the passage area (7a) of the revolving door (1) in particular, the assistance of the drive (8) in the rotational movement of the at least two door leaves (3) is stopped.

4. The method according to claim 3, wherein, The cessation of rotational movement of the at least two door panels (3) by the actuator (8) occurs when the person (P1; P2) has completely passed through the passage area (7a) of the revolving door (1).

5. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The revolving door (1) has at least one additional auxiliary sensor (D5b), preferably for monitoring the exit side (14) of the revolving door (1) opposite to the approach side (13) of the revolving door (1). Preferably, the additional auxiliary sensor (D5b) only records the presence of people (P1; P2) who pass through the passage area (7a) of the revolving door (1) and leave accordingly at the exit side (14).

6. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The presence of the recorded person (P1; P2) on one of the approach side (13) and the exit side (14) opposite to the approach side of the revolving door (1) serves to assist in stopping the rotational movement of the at least two door panels (3) by the drive (8) again; And / or the method includes two steps: Analyze the motor load value of the actuator (8) to detect when the person (P1; P2) stops independently pushing the door leaf (3) located in front of them; and The electric assist is stopped based on the detection.

7. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The time when the person (P1; P2) is about to push the door (3) includes the following times: Between 0.001 s and 3 s before the calculated assumed arrival time, preferably between 0.001 s and 2 s, more preferably between 0.001 s and 1 s; and / or The assumed entry time of the person (P1; P2) into the passage area (7a) of the revolving door (1).

8. A method for operating a semi-automatic revolving door (1), comprising the following steps: A) Provides a revolving door (1) having at least two door panels (3), a drive (8) and at least one sensor (D5; D6) for recording human movement, wherein the drive (8) is configured to cause the at least two door panels (3) to rotate within a passage area (7a) of the revolving door (1); B) The speed and approach direction of at least one person (P1; P2) approaching from the approach side (13) of the revolving door (1) are recorded by the at least one sensor (D5; D6); C) Calculate the assumed departure time of the person (P1; P2) from the revolving door (1) at the exit side (14) of the revolving door (1) opposite to the approach side (13) of the revolving door (1) based on the recorded speed and approach direction; D) When the person (P1; P2) pushes or continues to rotate the door (3) in front of them of the at least two door panels (3), the drive (8) assists the rotational movement of the at least two door panels (3) so that they can pass smoothly through the revolving door (1). E) At a time selected based on the calculated assumed departure time, stop the assistance of the drive (8) in the rotational movement of the at least two door panels (3) such that the assistance in the rotational movement ends when the person (P1; P2) is about to leave the passage area (7a) of the revolving door (1).

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein, The revolving door has at least one additional auxiliary sensor (D5b), preferably for monitoring the exit side (14). Preferably, the additional auxiliary sensor (D5b) only records the presence of people (P1; P2) who pass through the passage area (7a) of the revolving door (1) and leave accordingly on the exit side (14).

10. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The desired starting position is preset such that: in the desired entry position, no outer edge (12) of the at least two door panels (3) divides or covers the entrance area (11) of the entry opening (7) of the revolving door (1). And / or when viewed in the direction of rotation (v), the outer edge (12) of one of the at least two door panels (3) is arranged in an angle range of up to 15°, preferably up to 5°, of the entrance opening (7), preferably directly in front of the entrance opening (7).

11. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The stopping is performed by the driver (8) to assist the rotational movement of the at least two door panels (3) such that: the stopping occurs with a time delay, such that even if the person (P1; P2) no longer continues to rotate the door panel (3) in front of them, the at least two door panels (3) are automatically rotated by the driver (8) to another desired rotational stopping position; Preferably, in the other desired rotation stop position, the outer edges (12) of the at least two door panels (3) do not divide or cover the entrance area (11) of the entrance opening (7) of the revolving door (1), and / or the other desired rotation stop position is the desired starting position.

12. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The revolving door (1) is configured to switch to a first automatic operation mode, in which the at least two door panels (3) are stationary in their basic state; And / or wherein the revolving door (1) is configured to switch to a second automatic operation mode, in which the at least two door panels (3) are in principle rotated by the driver (8) at a low rotational speed.

13. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The revolving door (1) has a sensor system that monitors both the approach side (13) and the exit side (14) of the revolving door (1); Preferably, the sensor system includes at least one sensor (D6) for monitoring the proximity side (13) and at least one additional sensor (D5) of the same type for monitoring the exit side (14).

14. A semi-automatic revolving door (1), preferably configured to perform the method according to any one of claims 1 to 13, the semi-automatic revolving door (1) comprising: At least two doors (3); A drive (8) is configured to rotate the at least two door panels (3) within the passage area (7a) of the revolving door (1); At least one sensor (D5; D6) for recording human movement, wherein the at least one sensor (D5; D6) is configured to record the speed and approach direction of at least one person (P1; P2) approaching from the approach side (13) of the revolving door (1); and A control unit is configured to calculate the assumed arrival time of the person (P1; P2) at the revolving door (1) based on the recorded speed and approach direction; The control unit is also configured to activate the electric assistance of the drive (8) at a time selected based on a calculated assumed arrival time, such that the electric assistance is activated when the person (P1; P2) is about to push the door (3) in front of them of the at least two door panels (3), thereby initiating automatic, motor-assisted rotational movement of the at least two door panels (3); Furthermore, preferably, the actuator (8) is configured to assist the rotational movement of at least two door panels (3) so as to enable smooth passage through the revolving door (1) when the person (P1; P2) pushes or continues to rotate the door panel (3) in front of them.

15. A semi-automatic revolving door (1), preferably configured to perform the method according to any one of claims 1 to 13, the semi-automatic revolving door (1) comprising: At least two doors (3); A drive (8) is configured to rotate the at least two door panels (3) within the passage area (7a) of the revolving door (1); At least one sensor (D5; D6) for recording human movement, wherein the at least one sensor (D5; D6) is configured to record the speed and approach direction of at least one person (P1; P2) approaching from the approach side (13) of the revolving door (1); and The control unit is configured to calculate, based on the recorded speed and approach direction, the assumed departure time of the person (P1; P2) from the revolving door (1) at the exit side (14) of the revolving door (1) opposite to the approach side (13) of the revolving door (1); The actuator (8) is configured to assist the rotational movement of at least two door panels (3) so as to allow smooth passage through the revolving door (1) when the person (P1; P2) pushes or continues to rotate the door panel (3) in front of them. Furthermore, the control unit is also configured to stop the assistance of the drive (8) in the rotational movement of the at least two door panels (3) when the person (P1; P2) releases the door panel (3) in front of them or has passed through the passage area (7a) of the revolving door (1).

16. A computer program product comprising instructions for causing a semi-automatic revolving door according to claim 14 or 15 to perform the method steps according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

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