Handrail system for a passenger transportation device, comprising at least one electric-field generating device and at least one electric-field sensing device, and method for controlling said handrail system

Abstract

The present invention relates to a handrail system (12) for a passenger transportation device (10), comprising a handrail (14), a guiding device (18) for movably guiding the handrail (14) in a handrail longitudinal direction, an electric-field generating device for generating an electromagnetic field for sensing a person approaching the electric-field generating device, an electric-field sensing device for sensing a change in the electromagnetic field generated by the electric-field generating device, caused by the approach of a person, and for outputting a confirmation signal to a control device, and the control device for outputting a control signal for triggering the guiding device (18) to move the handrail (14) in the handrail longitudinal direction when the electric-field sensing device has sensed a change in the electric field, caused by the approach of a person, and the control device has received a confirmation signal from the electric-field sensing device. The present invention also relates to a balustrade (16) having a handrail system (12), to a passenger transportation device (10) having a handrail system (12), and to a method for controlling a handrail system (12) and / or a passenger transportation device (10).

Description

Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to a handrail system for a passenger transport device, in particular an escalator or a moving walkway.

[0002] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a passenger transport device, in particular an escalator or a moving walkway.

[0003] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method for controlling a handrail system for a passenger transport device, in particular an escalator or a moving walkway.

[0004] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method for controlling a passenger transport device, in particular an escalator or a moving walkway. Background of the invention

[0005] Passenger transport systems, especially escalators and moving walkways, are of great importance. An escalator is a means of transporting people over a distance. When a difference in height is overcome, moving segments, such as metal segments, create steps within the system. Escalators are primarily found in public facilities with high foot traffic, such as department stores, train stations, and airports. While they have a slower travel speed than elevators, for example, they offer the advantage of being able to carry significantly more people.

[0006] If the segments, for example metal segments, form a flat surface rather than a staircase, the means of passenger transport is called a moving walkway. Moving walkways can be constructed horizontally or inclined. The surface of a moving walkway can also be inclined and / or curved.

[0007] The purpose of escalators and moving walkways is to transport one or more people at a speed higher than walking pace and / or with less muscle power. Accelerated transport of people to or from a location can, for example, save time and space.

[0008] The safety of escalators and moving walkways is of paramount importance. A crucial component for this safety is a handrail. Handrails are typically mounted on a balustrade located on one or both sides of the escalator or moving walkway. The handrail runs along this balustrade, usually at its top, at the same speed as the escalator or moving walkway. This provides a secure grip in a comfortable and easily accessible position for the passenger.

[0009] The operation, starting, and stopping of escalators and moving walkways are crucial for both safety and energy consumption. A typical escalator requires an average of 2-5 kW of electrical power. This depends on the speed and length of the escalator. The power consumption increases only slightly with the number of people using it. To avoid idle time, modern systems are equipped with sensors, such as radar sensors, step sensors, or light sensors.

[0010] Such systems can be equipped with a timer. If the sensors haven't been triggered for a while and it's likely no one is on the escalator, the electronics shut it down, and it only restarts when someone triggers the sensor. Newer escalators are often no longer completely shut down, but continue to operate at a significantly reduced speed. While this reduces power consumption and wear less than a complete shutdown, it allows approaching passengers to be alerted that the escalator is operational and in which direction it's traveling. It also prevents the escalator from freezing up in sub-zero temperatures and wet conditions.

[0011] Typically, radar sensors are installed at the ends of escalators, i.e., at the beginning and end of escalators and moving walkways, along with numerous light sensors along the steps. The use of a combination of radar and light sensors is also mandated by DIN EN 115-1:2018-01. The large number of sensors used represents a significant cost factor and also increases the maintenance requirements of escalators.

[0012] Radar sensors are typically integrated into the balustrade. Balustrades often contain or consist of metal, which significantly limits the functionality of the radar sensors. Therefore, cutouts in the balustrade are necessary to ensure the radar sensors function correctly. A major disadvantage is that the detection range of the radar sensors is severely restricted within these cutouts.

[0013] Radar sensors are typically installed at the ends of escalators and moving walkways, below the handrail in the floor area. These sensors are usually covered with a non-metallic optical housing, often referred to as a "dome." These housings frequently protrude from the balustrade, posing a safety risk to passengers, especially children, due to the increased risk of injury.

[0014] US 2005 / 0121288 A1 describes a device for monitoring the area in front of escalators and moving walkways using electromagnetic high-frequency sensors. The sensors detect the approach of people and objects and then control the drive of the escalator or moving walkway to activate or deactivate it as needed. These sensors operate with electromagnetic waves that lie outside the visible and infrared light spectrum, making them weatherproof and suitable for use in various environments. The prior art relies on placement in the base or balustrade area. US 2005 / 0121288 A1 discloses a handrail system according to the preamble of claim 1. Description of the invention

[0015] Starting from this situation, it is an object of the present invention to provide an improved handrail system, an improved passenger transport device and an improved method for operating the handrail system or the passenger transport device.

[0016] In particular, the task is to provide a safer passenger transport system and to overcome the aforementioned disadvantages.

[0017] The object of the invention is achieved by the features of the independent main claims. Advantageous embodiments are specified in the dependent claims. Where technically feasible, the teachings of the dependent claims can be combined arbitrarily with the teachings of the main and dependent claims within the scope of protection of the appended claims. In particular, the object is thus achieved by a handrail system for a passenger transport device, especially an escalator or a moving walkway. The handrail system comprises at least one handrail, at least one guide device for movably guiding the handrail in a longitudinal direction, at least one electric field generating device configured to generate an electromagnetic field for detecting a person approaching the electric field generating device, and at least one electric field detection device.The invention comprises a device designed to detect a change in the electromagnetic field generated by the electric field generation device upon the approach of a person and to output a confirmation signal to a control device, and at least one control device designed to output a control signal to actuate the guide device to move the at least one handrail in the longitudinal direction of the handrail when the electric field detection device detects a change in the electric field upon the approach of a person and has received a confirmation signal from the electric field detection device. According to the invention, the electric field generation device and / or the electric field detection device are integrated or configured in the handrail, the guide device, a guide profile, and / or a drive element.

[0018] The problem is further solved by a safety system for a handrail system of a passenger transport device, in particular an escalator or a moving walkway, according to claim 10.

[0019] The problem is further solved by a passenger transport device comprising at least one step belt, at least one handrail system of the present invention, and at least one balustrade. The at least one handrail system is connected to the at least one balustrade via the guide device, wherein the control device is configured to output a control signal to actuate the guide device to move the step belt in the longitudinal direction of the handrail when the electric field detection device detects a change in the electric field caused by the approach of a person.

[0020] Furthermore, the task is solved by a balustrade with the handrail system, whereby the handrail system is connected to the balustrade via the guide device.

[0021] The problem is further solved by a method for controlling a handrail system for a passenger transport device, in particular an escalator or moving walkway, according to claim 13.

[0022] It is preferred that the sequence of process steps, unless technically required in an explicit sequence, may be varied within the scope of protection of the attached claims. However, the aforementioned sequence of process steps is particularly preferred.

[0023] The problem is further solved by a method for controlling a passenger transport device, in particular an escalator or a moving walkway, wherein the passenger transport device comprises at least one step band, at least one balustrade and at least one handrail system of the present invention.The method comprises the following steps: generating an electromagnetic field by means of at least one electric field generating device to detect a person approaching the electric field generating device; detecting a change in the electromagnetic field generated by the electric field generating device due to the approach of a person by means of at least one electric field detection device and issuing a confirmation signal to a control device; and issuing a control signal to actuate the guide device, by means of at least one control device, to move the handrail and the step band in the longitudinal direction of the handrail when the electric field detection device has detected a change in the electric field due to the approach of a person and has received a confirmation signal from the electric field detection device.

[0024] It is preferred that the sequence of process steps, unless technically required in an explicit sequence, may be varied within the scope of protection of the attached claims. However, the aforementioned sequence of process steps is particularly preferred.

[0025] Advantageous aspects of the invention are explained below, followed by a description of modified embodiments. Explanations, particularly regarding advantages and definitions of features, are essentially descriptive and preferred examples, but not limiting ones. If an explanation is limiting, this will be explicitly stated.

[0026] In other words, the system is designed to detect changes in electromagnetic fields caused by people, for example, by people approaching. This detection is achieved by at least one electromagnetic field detection device. When a person approaches the passenger transport system, the electromagnetic field detection device registers the changes in the electromagnetic field and, for example, sends an acknowledgment signal to a control device. This acknowledgment signal can then be used to start the passenger transport system or a part of it, such as the handrail. Alternatively or additionally, an acknowledgment signal can be sent to a control device when the electromagnetic field detection device no longer detects any changes in the electromagnetic field.In this case, the passenger transport device can be stopped when no people are within the detection range of the electric field detection device. Automatic starting and stopping of the passenger transport device reduces energy costs. Furthermore, the safety of the passenger transport device can be improved. According to a preferred embodiment, the electric field generation device is the electric field detection device.

[0027] In the present context, "integrating a component X into a component Y" refers to the arrangement of a fully functional component X within component Y. This arrangement of the fully functional component X within component Y also implies that component Y does not completely surround component X.

[0028] Furthermore, in the present context, the "design of component X as component Y" is understood as a symbiotic formation of component X and component Y. In other words, component X and component Y are manufactured together. Component X only acquires its full functionality through one or more parts of component Y. Conversely, component Y acquires its full functionality through one or more parts of component X. It is also conceivable that only one of the two components acquires its full functionality through the other component. Depending on the context, the design of component X as component Y can also mean that component X is component Y.

[0029] In the present context, "component X has component Y" is understood to mean that component Y can be integrated into component X or that component X can be designed as component Y. Generally, in any configuration of the two components, it should simply be ensured that component Y is functionally or spatially assignable to component X. Examples of components X or Y include the electric field generation device, the electric field detection device, the handrail, the guide device, a conveyor segment of the passenger transport device on which a user stands with their feet during transport along a section of the passenger transport device, the control device, the generator, etc.

[0030] In this context, a conveying segment is understood to be a part of a passenger transport device on which a user places their feet to be transported along a route. This segment could, for example, be a step if the passenger transport device is used to overcome a height difference. A conveying section then comprises a multitude of conveying segments. The conveying section could, for example, be a stepped conveyor belt with a multitude of steps.

[0031] In this context, the longitudinal direction of a handrail is understood to be the direction that corresponds to the longest extension of the handrail. The handrail is usually a flexible component that adapts to the shape of the guide device and is also guided, for example, around a turning device. The handrail is, for instance, designed as a closed ring, so that the longitudinal direction of the handrail extends along an arc of the ring when the handrail is not attached to the guide device.

[0032] According to a modified embodiment, the electric field generating device includes an antenna and / or is designed to generate static fields. In the case of an electric field generating device with an antenna, this device can, for example, be a traction element of the handrail, such as steel strands or steel wires, or be integrated into the handrail in addition to these traction elements. The handrail is pulled through a guide by a drive unit via the traction element. This guide runs along the balustrade, which is located on one or both sides of the escalator or moving walkway. The handrail can, for example, consist of endless rubber bands into which the steel strands or steel wires are vulcanized. The handrail guide is made of metal, for example. The antenna can be driven by a generator, which then generates the electric field via the antenna.In the case of a design for generating static fields, the electric field generating device can be made entirely of a dielectric material. Likewise, the guide running under the handrail can be made of or incorporate an electrically insulating material.

[0033] According to the invention, the electric field generating device and / or the electric field detection device is / are integrated into the handrail. Alternatively, the handrail of the handrail system can be designed as an electric field generating device and / or an electric field detection device. When the electric field generating device and / or the electric field detection device is integrated, a self-contained, functional electric field generating device and / or electric field detection device is integrated into the handrail, for example, vulcanized into a rubber material of the handrail. In a configuration as an electric field generating device and / or electric field detection device, the handrail itself could, for example, be designed as an electric field generating device and / or electric field detection device.

[0034] According to a modified embodiment, the electric field generation device and / or the electric field detection device are integrated into a guide element of the passenger transport device. This constitutes an alternative or additional option to the handrail, and all aspects of the embodiment in which the electric field generation device and / or the electric field detection device are integrated into the handrail apply analogously to the guide element. This can apply to only one guide element or to both opposing guide elements of the passenger transport device.

[0035] According to a modified embodiment, the electric field generation device and / or the electric field detection device are integrated into a guide profile of the passenger transport device. This constitutes an alternative or additional option to the handrail, and all aspects of the embodiment in which the electric field generation device and / or the electric field detection device are integrated into the handrail apply analogously to the guide profile. This can apply to only one guide profile or to both opposing guide profiles of the passenger transport device.

[0036] According to a modified embodiment, the electric field generation device and / or the electric field detection device are integrated into a drive element of the passenger transport device. This constitutes an alternative or additional option to the handrail, and all aspects of the embodiment in which the electric field generation device and / or the electric field detection device are integrated into the handrail apply analogously to the drive element. This can involve only one drive element or several drive elements of the passenger transport device.

[0037] An advantage of the previously described modified embodiment may lie in the improved detection of changes in an electromagnetic field, i.e., the detection of one or more persons. Radar and / or light sensors are typically installed in ground-level areas of passenger transport devices. Sensors installed in the floor, for example as footplates, are also common. This can sometimes lead to unreliable detection of persons, for example, if a person accidentally crosses the detection range of the commonly installed sensors due to their stride length. The electric field generation device and / or electric field detection device according to the invention are preferably integrated into the handrail and / or the guide rail, thus being located approximately at a person's hip height. This allows for more reliable detection of changes in an electromagnetic field, i.e.,the detection of one or more persons can be achieved.

[0038] If the handrail system is configured or integrated as an electric field generation and detection device, a generator for generating a field and a detector for detecting and outputting a confirmation signal to the control device can be connected to the handrail. If the handrail system is configured or integrated as an electric field generation device, detection at a location other than the handrail system itself, for example on a step of the passenger transport device, is conceivable. If the handrail system is configured or integrated as an electric field detection device, detection at the handrail system itself, for example on the handrail, is conceivable. Detection at the handrail is particularly preferred in the case of a configuration of the handrail system as an electric field detection device.

[0039] According to a modified embodiment, the electric field generation device and / or the electric field detection device are integrated into the guide device. Alternatively, for example, the guide device of the handrail can be designed as an electric field generation device and / or electric field detection device.

[0040] Typically, passenger transport systems, especially escalators or moving walkways, have both a handrail and a guide device for the handrail. An advantage of the handrail system is therefore its compatibility with common passenger transport systems. This makes it a cost-effective way to combine and / or retrofit existing passenger transport systems with a handrail system according to the present invention.

[0041] For example, handrails and / or guide devices of existing passenger transport devices that require replacement can be easily replaced by a handrail system according to the present invention. Alternatively, the handrails and / or guide devices of existing passenger transport devices can be used.

[0042] For example, the handrail and / or guide rail of existing passenger transport systems can be used as an electric field generator and / or electric field detection device. This would only require retrofitting a power generator, an evaluation unit, and a control device, each electrically connected to the handrail and / or guide rail. Such a retrofit is conceivable, for instance, if the sensors of the existing passenger transport system are defective or in need of replacement. This type of retrofit thus has the advantage of restoring and ensuring the safety of the passenger transport system cost-effectively, since an existing component is used as the electric field generator and / or electric field detection device.It may also be possible to additionally install handrails with integrated antennas in the passenger transport device.

[0043] Preferably, the guide device has a guide profile. The electric field generation device and / or electric field detection device can also be integrated into the guide profile. Alternatively, the guide profile can be the electric field generation device and / or electric field detection device itself.

[0044] For example, it is conceivable to replace balustrades, including handrails and / or guide devices, of existing passenger transport devices that require replacement in a simple manner with balustrades that have a handrail system of the present invention.

[0045] According to a modified embodiment, the electric field generation device and / or the electric field detection device are partially integrated into the handrail and partially into the guide rail. For example, a field generation generator can be integrated into the guide rail and the antenna into the handrail. Furthermore, the detector can be integrated into the guide rail and the electric field detection device into the handrail. The design of the electric field detection or generation device can therefore be flexibly adapted to the construction of the passenger transport device. An electric field generation device that is partially integrated into the handrail and partially into the guide rail would, for example, be conceivable for generating a static field.For this purpose, both the handrail and a part of the guide device connected to the handrail could be made of or contain a dielectric.

[0046] According to a modified embodiment, the handrail, in particular the entire handrail, is the electric field generating device and / or the electric field detection device, or the guide rail, in particular the entire guide rail, is the electric field generating device and / or the electric field detection device. In other words, a person being transported or already transported can be detected throughout the entire transport period. This advantageously further increases the safety of the passenger transport device. For example, a fall by a person can be detected immediately by a change in the electric field along the entire length of the escalator.

[0047] It is particularly preferred that the entire handrail is the electric field generating device and is connected to a power generator, and / or that the entire handrail is the electric field detection device, wherein the electric field detection device includes an evaluation device for evaluating measurement signals for changes in the electromagnetic field.

[0048] Alternatively or additionally, it is particularly preferred that the, in particular the entire, guide device is the electric field generation device, and the guide device is connected to a current generator, and / or the, in particular the entire, guide device is the electric field detection device, wherein the electric field detection device has an evaluation device for evaluating measurement signals for changes in the electromagnetic field.

[0049] According to a modified embodiment, the guide device is designed to be elongated with two end sections, wherein the guide device has a turning device at each end section, which is designed to guide the handrail around a turning point, wherein the respective turning device includes the electric field generation device and / or the electric field detection device.

[0050] In this configuration, people are detected between the two guide devices, i.e., between the electric field generation device and the electric field detection device. A signal generated by the electric field of the electric field generation device is attenuated by a person on the conveyor section before it reaches the opposite electric field detection device. This attenuation is detectable.

[0051] Several variations are conceivable: Firstly, the electric field generation device and / or the electric field detection device can be arranged only at the turning devices. In this case, the passenger transport device detects when a person enters and exits it. Such a configuration is advantageous, for example, if the passenger transport device can identify a specific user based on their specific electric field via artificial intelligence installed in or connected to the control device, and thus recognize when that specific user has left the passenger transport device. If no other user is using the passenger transport device, i.e., if no other user has been detected, the passenger transport device can stop the handrail and / or the segments used to transport the user.Alternatively, the electric field generation device and / or the electric field detection device can be arranged only at the turning devices if the electric field has a sufficient range to cover the entire travel distance of the passenger transport device in order to detect one or more users. Alternatively, the electric field generation device and / or the electric field detection device can be arranged at the turning devices and in an area between them. In such a case, one or more users of the passenger transport device are detected either section by section or, in the case of complete coverage of a detection area over the entire travel distance, continuously.

[0052] According to a modified embodiment, the guide device is elongated with two end sections, each end section having a turning device designed to guide the handrail around a turning point. The electric field generation device and / or the electric field detection device is / are arranged between the two turning devices. Such an arrangement is advantageous if an electric field for detecting one or more users has a sufficient range to cover the entire transport route of the passenger transport device.

[0053] According to a modified embodiment, the guide device is designed to be elongated with two end sections, wherein the guide device has a turning device at each end section, which is designed to guide the handrail around a turning point, wherein the electric field generating device and / or the electric field detection device extends between the two turning devices, or several electric field generating devices and / or the electric field detection devices are arranged between the two turning devices to cover a detection area along a complete length of the handrail between the two turning points.

[0054] According to a modified embodiment, the guide device is designed to be elongated with two end sections, wherein the guide device has a turning device at each end section, which is designed to guide the handrail around a turning point, wherein the electric field generating device and / or the electric field detection device extends between the two turning devices, or several electric field generating devices and / or the electric field detection devices are arranged between the two turning devices to cover a detection area along a complete length of the handrail between the two turning points and are arranged at the turning points.

[0055] In contrast to conventional radar sensors installed in turning devices, whose detection is severely limited by the balustrade of the passenger transport system and the necessary cutouts, a handrail system that uses the handrail and / or its guide as a sensor or antenna offers the advantage of unrestricted detection of electromagnetic fields and / or changes in those fields. This improves the safety of the passenger transport system.

[0056] According to a modified embodiment, the handrail system has at least two handrails and at least two guide devices, wherein, in each of the at least two handrails and the at least two guide devices, the electric field generation device is integrated in a first handrail of the at least two handrails and the electric field detection device is integrated in a second handrail opposite the first handrail of the at least two handrails.

[0057] "Opposite arrangement of component X to component Y" means, in the present context, that component X and component Y belong to a common passenger transport device. Specifically, this means that the handrails and / or guide devices belong to a passenger transport device and are arranged on both sides of the conveyor segments. In such an arrangement, a person is positioned between the electric field generation device and the electric field detection device while using the passenger transport device.

[0058] Alternatively or additionally, according to a modified embodiment, the handrail system has at least two handrails and at least two guide devices, wherein, in each case, the electric field generating device is integrated in a first guide device of the at least two guide devices and the electric field detection device is integrated in a second guide device of the at least two guide devices, opposite the first guide device.

[0059] According to a modified embodiment, the handrail system has at least two handrails and at least two guide devices, wherein in each of the at least two handrails and the at least two guide devices, a first handrail of the at least two handrails is the electric field generating device and a second handrail of the at least two handrails, opposite the first handrail, is the electric field detection device.

[0060] According to a modified embodiment, the handrail system has at least two handrails and at least two guide devices, wherein, in each case, a first guide device of the at least two guide devices is the electric field generating device and a second guide device opposite the first guide device of the at least two guide devices is the electric field detection device.

[0061] Separately designing the electric field generation device and the electric field detection device—that is, arranging the electric field generation device on a first component and the electric field detection device on a second component—increases the sensitivity of detecting a person. It is conceivable that the electric field detection device and the electric field generation device could be identical in design. Depending on the installation location of the passenger transport device, it can then be configured on-site which of the two devices—the electric field generation device or the electric field detection device—performs its respective functions. In this way, the safety of the entire system can be further enhanced.For example, it is conceivable that users of a people mover in a department store might intuitively prefer to stand on the left side of a conveyor segment, as they have a good view of the store's merchandise from there. In this case, it might be advantageous to also position the electric field generation device on the left side, as well as the conveyor, to increase sensitivity. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the control device automatically selects, based on the conveyor direction, which of the two devices—the electric field generation device or the electric field detection device—takes over the functionality of the electric field generation device or the electric field detection device.

[0062] Optionally, the electric field generation device and the electric field detection device can be designed as a single component. The simplest conceivable design for an antenna is a wire. For example, sensors or antennas according to the invention can be attached to the escalator cost-effectively, thereby allowing the detection area to be varied. Preferably, the entire area of ​​the passenger transport device can be used.

[0063] To cover a detection area along the entire length of the handrail of a passenger transport device, numerous sensors are typically used. Each of these sensors is a separate component and must be installed separately in the passenger transport device. In contrast, the handrail, which runs the entire length of the passenger transport device, particularly the entire length of the conveying section, can be used as an electric field generation device and / or an electric field detection device. This allows the numerous sensors typically used to be replaced and / or supplemented in an advantageous and practical manner.

[0064] According to a modified embodiment of the invention, the electric field generating device is designed to generate an electromagnetic field with a range of at least 10 cm, and in particular to generate an electromagnetic field with a range of at least 30 cm.

[0065] According to a modified embodiment of the invention, it is alternatively or additionally provided that the electric field detection device is designed to detect an electromagnetic field at a range of at least 10 cm, and in particular is designed to detect an electromagnetic field at a range of at least 30 cm.

[0066] According to a modified embodiment of the invention, the electric field generating device is configured to generate an electromagnetic field with a range of at least 10 cm, in particular to generate an electromagnetic field with a range of at least 30 cm, and the electric field detection device is configured to detect an electromagnetic field with a range of at least 10 cm, in particular to detect an electromagnetic field with a range of at least 30 cm.

[0067] According to a modified embodiment of the invention, a handrail system is provided, wherein the electric field generating device for generating the electromagnetic field has an electrical conductor or consists of an electrically conductive material.

[0068] According to a modified embodiment of the invention, a handrail system is provided, wherein the electric field generating device is designed to generate a frequency of electromagnetic signals of the electromagnetic field between and including 10^8 Hz and inclusive 10^11 Hz. Brief description of the drawings

[0069] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and preferred embodiments. The term "figure" is abbreviated as "Fig." in the drawings.

[0070] The drawings show Fig. 1 shows a schematic side view of a passenger transport device comprising a handrail system according to a preferred embodiment of the invention; Fig. 2 shows a schematic side view of a passenger transport device comprising a handrail system according to a further preferred embodiment of the invention; Fig. 3 shows a schematic side view of a passenger transport device comprising a handrail system according to a further preferred embodiment of the invention; Fig. 4 shows a schematic side view of a passenger transport device comprising a handrail system according to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, wherein the passenger transport device is a moving walkway; and Fig. 5 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a handrail system according to a possible embodiment of the invention. Detailed description of the implementation examples

[0071] The described embodiments are merely examples that can be modified and / or supplemented in various ways within the scope of the claims. Each feature described for a particular embodiment can be used independently or in combination with other features in any other embodiment. Each feature described for an embodiment of a particular claim category can also be used accordingly in an embodiment of a different claim category.

[0072] The Figures 1 to 4 show schematic side views of embodiments of handrail systems 12 for a passenger transport device 10.

[0073] The handrail system 12 comprises two handrails 14 and two guide devices 16. Each guide device 16 is designed to movably guide the respective handrail 14 in a longitudinal direction.

[0074] The handrail system 12 further comprises at least one electric field generating device (not shown). The electric field generating device is designed to generate an electromagnetic field E for detecting a person approaching the electric field generating device. Figure 1 For example, a person is schematically shown in an entrance area of ​​a passenger transport device 10. The person is located within the detection zone of an electromagnetic field generated by the electric field generation device and is detected, for example, in the area of ​​the crosses D.

[0075] The person is simultaneously within the detection range of at least one electric field detection device of the handrail system 12. The at least one electric field detection device is designed to detect a change in the electromagnetic field generated by the electric field generation device due to the approach of the person and is designed to output a confirmation signal to a control device not shown.

[0076] The handrail system 12 further includes at least one control device, which is not shown. The control device is designed to output a control signal to actuate the guide device, which moves both or one of the handrails 14 in the longitudinal direction of the handrail when the electric field detection device detects a change in the electric field caused by the approach of a person and has received a confirmation signal from the electric field detection device.

[0077] In the handrail system 12 of the Figure 1 There is at least one electric field generating device and at least one electric field detection device at each entry area of ​​the passenger transport device, as well as at least one electric field generating device and at least one electric field detection device at each exit area where the person leaves the passenger transport device 10.

[0078] In Figure 2 A handrail system 12 is shown in which at least one electric field generating device and at least one electric field detection device are located between the entry area of ​​the passenger transport device and the exit area where the person leaves the passenger transport device 10.

[0079] In Figure 3 is a combination of the arrangements according to the Figure 1 and 2shown. Accordingly, it is a handrail system 12 in which at least one electric field generating device and at least one electric field detection device are located at an entry area of ​​the passenger transport device, as well as at least one electric field generating device and at least one electric field detection device at an exit area, and in which at least one electric field generating device and at least one electric field detection device are located between the entry area of ​​the passenger transport device and the exit area.

[0080] In Figure 4 Figure 10 shows a passenger transport device for overcoming a distance in a horizontal plane. The passenger transport device 10 has a handrail system 12 corresponding to the handrail system 12 of the exemplary embodiment of Figure 1. Figure 3 .

[0081] According to the Figures 1 to 4It is preferred that the electric field generating device has an antenna.

[0082] It is further preferred that the electric field generation device is designed to generate static fields.

[0083] It is further preferred that the electric field generating device is integrated into the handrail 14.

[0084] It is further preferred that the electric field detection device is integrated into the handrail 14.

[0085] It is further preferred that the electric field generating device is integrated into the guide device 18.

[0086] It is further preferred that the electric field detection device is integrated into the guide device 18.

[0087] It is further preferred that the electric field generating device is partially integrated in the handrail 14 and partially in the guide device 18.

[0088] It is further preferred that the electric field detection device is partially integrated in the handrail 14 and partially in the guide device 18.

[0089] It is particularly preferred that the, in particular the entire, handrail 14 is the electric field generating device.

[0090] It is particularly preferred that the, in particular the entire, handrail 14 is the electric field detection device.

[0091] It is particularly preferred that the, in particular the entire, guide device 18 is the electric field generating device.

[0092] It is particularly preferred that the, in particular the entire, guide device 18 is the electric field detection device.

[0093] It is particularly preferred that the, in particular the entire, handrail 14 is the electric field generating device, and that the handrail 14 is connected to a power generator.

[0094] It is particularly preferred that the, in particular the entire, handrail 14 is the electric field detection device, wherein the electric field detection device has an evaluation device for evaluating measurement signals for changes in the electromagnetic field.

[0095] It is particularly preferred that the, in particular the entire, guide device 18 is the electric field generating device, and that the guide device is connected to a power generator.

[0096] It is particularly preferred that the, in particular the entire, guide device 18 is the electric field detection device, wherein the electric field detection device has an evaluation device for evaluating measurement signals for changes in the electromagnetic field.

[0097] According to the Figures 1 to 4It is preferred that the guide device 18 is elongated with two end sections, wherein the guide device has a turning device at the respective end section, which is designed to guide the handrail 14 around a turning point.

[0098] According to Figure 1 , 3 and 4 It is preferred that the respective turning device includes the electric field generation device and / or the electric field detection device.

[0099] According to Figures 2 to 4 It is preferred that the electric field generating device is arranged between the two turning devices.

[0100] According to Figures 2 to 4 It is preferred that the electric field detection device is arranged between the two turning devices.

[0101] According to Figures 2 to 4 It is preferred that the electric field generating device extends between the two turning devices.

[0102] According to Figures 2 to 4It is preferred that the electric field detection device extends between the two turning devices.

[0103] According to Figures 2 to 4 It is preferred that several electric field generating devices are arranged between the two turning devices to cover a detection area along a complete length of the handrail 14 between the two turning points.

[0104] According to Figures 2 to 4 It is preferred that several electric field detection devices are arranged between the two turning devices to cover a detection area along a complete length of the handrail 14 between the two turning points.

[0105] According to Figures 3 and 4It is preferred that the electric field generating device extends between the two turning devices or that several electric field generating devices are arranged between the two turning devices to cover a detection area along a full length of the handrail 14 between the two turning points and are arranged at the turning points.

[0106] According to Figures 3 and 4 It is preferred that the electric field detection device extends between the two turning devices or that several electric field detection devices are arranged between the two turning devices to cover a detection area along a complete length of the handrail 14 between the two turning points and are arranged at the turning points.

[0107] According to Figures 1 to 4It is preferred that the handrail system has at least two handrails 14 and at least two guide devices 18, wherein in each of the at least two handrails 14 and the at least two guide devices 18 the electric field generating device is integrated in a first handrail 14 of the at least two handrails 14 and the electric field detection device is integrated in a second handrail 14 opposite the first handrail 14 of the at least two handrails 14.

[0108] According to Figures 1 to 4 It is preferred that the electric field generating device is integrated in a first guide device 18 of the at least two guide devices 18 and the electric field detection device is integrated in a second guide device opposite the first guide device 18, in which at least two guide devices 18 are integrated.

[0109] It is further preferred that a first handrail 14 of the at least two handrails 14 is the electric field generating device and a second handrail 14 opposite the first handrail 14 of the at least two handrails 14 is the electric field detection device.

[0110] It is particularly preferred that a first guide device 18 of the at least two guide devices 18 is the electric field generation device and a second guide device 18 opposite the first guide device 18 of the at least two guide devices 18 is the electric field detection device.

[0111] It is further preferred that the electric field generation device and the electric field detection device are designed as one component.

[0112] According to Figures 1 to 4It is preferred that the electric field generating device is configured to generate an electromagnetic field with a range of at least 10 cm, and in particular to generate an electromagnetic field with a range of at least 30 cm.

[0113] According to Figures 1 to 4 It is preferred that the electric field detection device is designed to detect an electromagnetic field at a range of at least 10 cm, and in particular is designed to detect an electromagnetic field at a range of at least 30 cm.

[0114] According to Figures 1 to 4It is preferred that the electric field generating device is configured to generate an electromagnetic field with a range of at least 10 cm, in particular to generate an electromagnetic field with a range of at least 30 cm, and that the electric field detection device is configured to detect an electromagnetic field with a range of at least 10 cm, in particular to detect an electromagnetic field with a range of at least 30 cm.

[0115] According to Figures 1 to 4 It is preferred that the electric field generating device for generating the electromagnetic field has an electrical conductor or consists of an electrically conductive material.

[0116] According to Figures 1 to 4It is preferred that the electric field generating device is configured to generate a frequency of electromagnetic signals of the electromagnetic field between inclusive 10^8 Hz and inclusive 10^11 Hz.

[0117] Figure 5 Figure 1 shows a cross-section of a handrail system 12 according to a preferred embodiment of the invention. The handrail system 12 is arranged on a balustrade 16 and comprises a handrail 14 and a guide device 18. The guide device 18 has a guide profile 20. Typically, the guide profile 20 is W-shaped. The guide profile 20 can also be configured differently without impairing its function according to the invention. A drive element 20 is integrated into the handrail 14 for moving the handrail 14 in a longitudinal direction. Reference symbol list

[0118] 10 Passenger transport device 12 Handrail system 14 Handrail 16 Balustrade 18 Guide device 20 Guide profile 22 Drive element Detection range E Electromagnetic field

Claims

1. A handrail system (12) for a passenger transport device (10), in particular an escalator or a moving walkway, the handrail system (12) comprising at least one handrail (14), at least one guide device (18) for movably guiding the handrail (14) in a longitudinal direction of the handrail, at least one electric field generation device, designed to generate an electromagnetic field for detecting a person approaching the electric field generation device, at least one electric field detection device, designed to detect a change in the electromagnetic field generated by the electric field generation device due to the approach of a person and designed to output a confirmation signal to a control device, and the at least one control device, configured to output a control signal to actuate the guide device (18) to move the at least one handrail (14) in the longitudinal direction of the handrail when the electric field detection device has detected a change in the electric field due to the approach of a person and has received a confirmation signal from the electric field detection device, characterised in that the electric field generation device and / or the electric field detection device is / are integrated or formed in the handrail (14), the guide device (18), a guide profile (20) and / or a drive element (22).

2. The handrail system (12) according to claim 1, wherein the electric field generation device comprises an antenna and / or is designed to generate static fields.

3. The handrail system (12) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the guide device (18) is elongated with two end sections, wherein the guide device (18) comprises a turning device at the respective end section, which is designed to guide the handrail (14) around a turning point, wherein the respective turning device comprises the electric field generation device and / or the electric field detection device, and / or wherein the electric field generation device and / or the electric field detection device is / are arranged between the two turning devices.

4. The handrail system (12) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising at least two handrails (14) and at least two guide devices (18), wherein in each of the at least two handrails and at least two guide devices (18) the electric field generation device is integrated in a first handrail (14) of the at least two handrails, or the handrail (14) is designed as the electric field generation device, and the electric field detection device is integrated in a second handrail (14) opposite the first handrail (14) of the at least two handrails (14), or the opposite handrail (14) is designed as the electric field detection device.

5. The handrail system (12) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising at least two handrails (14) and at least two guide devices (18), wherein in each of the at least two handrails and at least two guide devices (18) the electric field generation device is integrated in a first guide device (18) of the at least two guide devices (18) or the guide device (18) is designed as the electric field generation device, and the electric field detection device is integrated in a second guide device (18) opposite the first guide device (18) of the at least two guide devices (18) or the opposite guide device (18) is designed as the electric field detection device.

6. The handrail system (12) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the electric field generation device and the electric field detection device are designed as one component.

7. The handrail system (12) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the electric field generation device is designed to generate an electromagnetic field with a range of at least 10 cm, in particular is designed to generate an electromagnetic field with a range of at least 30 cm, and / or wherein the electric field detection device is designed to detect an electromagnetic field within a range of at least 10 cm, in particular is designed to detect an electromagnetic field within a range of at least 30 cm.

8. The handrail system (12) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the electric field generation device for generating the electromagnetic field comprises an electrical conductor or consists of an electrically conductive material.

9. The handrail system (12) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the electric field generation device is designed to generate a frequency of electromagnetic signals of the electromagnetic field between 10^8 Hz and 10^11 Hz inclusive.

10. A safety system for a handrail system (12) of a passenger transport device (10), in particular an escalator or a moving walkway, wherein the handrail system (12) is a handrail system (12) according to one of claims 1 to 9.

11. A balustrade (16) having a handrail system (12) according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 9, wherein the handrail system (12) is connected to the balustrade (16) via the guide device (18).

12. A passenger transport device (10) comprising at least one step band, at least one handrail system (12) according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 9, and at least one balustrade (16) wherein the at least one handrail system (12) is connected to the at least one balustrade (16) via the guide device (18), wherein the control device is designed to output a control signal to actuate the guide device (18) to move the step band in the longitudinal direction of the handrail when the electric field detection device has detected a change in the electric field due to the approach of a person.

13. A method of controlling a handrail system (12) for a passenger transport device (10), in particular an escalator or moving walkway, the method comprising generating, by means of at least one electric field generation device, an electromagnetic field for detecting a person approaching the electric field generation device, detecting, by means of at least one electric field detection device, a change in the electromagnetic field generated by the electric field generation device due to the approach of a person and outputting a confirmation signal to a control device, and outputting a control signal to actuate the guide device (18), by means of the at least one control device to move the handrail (14) in the longitudinal direction of the handrail when the electric field detection device has detected a change in the electric field due to the approach of a person and has received a confirmation signal from the electric field detection device, wherein the electric field generation device and / or the electric field detection device is / are integrated or formed in a handrail (14), a guide device (18), a guide profile (20) and / or a drive element (22).

14. A method for controlling a passenger transport device (10), in particular an escalator or a moving walkway, wherein the passenger transport device (10) comprises at least one step band, at least one balustrade (16) and at least one handrail system (12) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 9, the method comprising generating, by means of at least one electric field generation device, an electromagnetic field for detecting a person approaching the electric field generation device, detecting, by means of at least one electric field detection device, a change in the electromagnetic field generated by the electric field generation device due to the approach of a person and outputting a confirmation signal to a control device, and outputting a control signal to actuate the guide device (18), by means of the at least one control device to move the handrail (14) and the step band in the longitudinal direction of the handrail when the electric field detection device has detected a change in the electric field due to the approach of a person and has received a confirmation signal from the electric field detection device.

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