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

Abstract

The present 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 using sensors (D5; D6) and the control of the motor support of the revolving door (1) is carried out on the basis of this.

Description

[0001] The present 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 the semi-automatic revolving door.

[0002] In the field of revolving doors, sometimes also called rotating doors, three different types are generally common. Firstly, there are revolving doors that are operated either entirely manually by the person passing through, or fully automatically by means of a drive without any pushing by the person passing through. These two types of revolving doors are not the subject of this disclosure. Secondly, there are also revolving doors that, while requiring manual pushing by the person passing through, simultaneously provide motorized assistance by means of a drive that also assists the rotation of the door leaves.This partial motorized assistance for the person passing through can be provided by providing motorized support to the person while pushing the door leaf throughout its entire rotation, or by providing motorized support only for the initial push to overcome the inertia of the door leaf, after which the person completes the rest of the rotation using their own strength. Such doors with partial motorized assistance, as described in this disclosure, are referred to here as semi-automatic revolving doors, or can generally also be called "low-energy revolving doors".

[0003] Semi-automatic revolving doors are subject to special requirements. It is generally desirable to minimize energy consumption and prevent unnecessary door rotation. Furthermore, it is desirable to keep air exchange, and thus any associated heat exchange, between the two sides of the door—typically the interior and exterior of the building—as low as possible. Therefore, semi-automatic revolving doors often have a default setting in which the door leaves are stationary and the door does not rotate. In the specific case of a double-leaf revolving door, this stationary setting typically means that the access opening is then created by the (widened or extended with additional elements) outer edge of the door leaf.The two opposing access openings are completely or at least partially closed by the two existing outer edges of the door leaves. Both of these characteristics of semi-automatic revolving doors can, however, fundamentally hinder comfortable and, in particular, seamless passage for people through the revolving door, because an outer edge in the access opening can obviously obstruct access to the interior of the revolving door and thus impede passage through it. Even with revolving doors with more than two leaves, the problem can arise that outer edges of the door leaves protrude obstructively into the theoretically accessible area of ​​the revolving door's access opening. Furthermore, a poorly chosen start sequence for the motor assistance of the revolving door can be particularly critical for smooth passage through the door.If the starting process begins too early, for example, while the approaching person, indicating their intention to enter, is still some distance from the door leaf they are manually pushing, they might mistakenly conclude that it is not a semi-automatic but a fully automatic revolving door, and that a fully automatic revolving door has just been set in motion from a standstill. Consequently, the person might assume they don't need to push the door leaf themselves. However, since the rotational speed or assistive torque in semi-automatic revolving doors is only intended to support the human pushing motion, the resulting rotational movement, relying solely on motor assistance, is rather slow and certainly too slow for a natural, smooth passage for pedestrians.According to this, people who fall prey to such a misconception regularly get annoyed by what they perceive as a too slow-rotating, supposedly fully automatic revolving door, without realizing that it is only a semi-automatic revolving door that actually requires their manual cooperation in the form of an additional push.

[0004] Against this background, it is an object of the present invention to provide a method for operating a semi-automatic revolving door, as well as a semi-automatic revolving door and a corresponding computer program product, which addresses at least one of the problems described above. In particular, it is an object to make the passage through the revolving door as smooth and seamless as possible for approaching persons wishing to enter, while simultaneously minimizing energy loss, whether due to unwanted heat exchange between the two sides of the door or due to excessively long, unwanted rotations of the revolving doors.

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

[0006] The key finding here is that by using sensors to detect people's movements and strategically applying the acquired sensor data, the timing of support—specifically, the start and end times of motor assistance—can be optimized. This allows for the motor assistance to be activated selectively, reducing the risk of people mistakenly assuming they are entering a fully automatic revolving door. It also enables the motor assistance to be deactivated selectively to ensure the smoothest possible passage (for subsequent users as well) and / or to optimize energy consumption.Advantageously, the motor assistance can be kept as short as possible in order to save energy on the one hand and to minimize any potential air exchange and associated heat exchange between the inside and outside of the building, or to allow a subsequent passage process of a following person to start in an optimized manner.

[0007] Specifically, according to a first independent aspect of the disclosure, as set out in claim 1, a method for operating a semi-automatic revolving door is proposed, which includes at least the following steps a) to d): a) Providing a revolving door with at least two door leaves, a drive unit, and at least one sensor for detecting pedestrian movement, wherein the drive unit is configured to rotate the at least two door leaves within a passage area of ​​the revolving door. b) Detecting the speed and direction of approach of at least one person approaching from one side of the revolving door using the at least one sensor. c) Calculating an estimated arrival time of the person at the revolving door based on the detected speed and direction of approach.d) Initiating motor assistance of the drive and thereby initiating an automatic, motor-assisted rotational movement of the at least two door leaves at a time selected based on the calculated estimated time of arrival such that the motor assistance begins when the person is about to push one of the two door leaves in front of them.

[0008] The term "semi-automatic revolving door" refers to a revolving door that is both motor-assisted and requires manual push-off by a person to pass through. A "drive" is a mechanical device that sets the revolving door's leaves in motion. "Sensors" are devices that detect the movement and / or position of people. The "passage area" of the revolving door is the area through which people can pass. Due to the revolving door's rotation, the passage area is variable and continuously adjusted. A person enters the interior of the revolving door, which encompasses or provides the passage area, via the "access area." The access area is also variable, as the outer edge of a door leaf may temporarily partially obstruct the access area or divide it into two sections.Basically, a revolving door has an "access opening" (or two opposing access openings), which is either completely open, allowing a person to enter the passageway of the revolving door (and thus its interior) through one of the resulting access areas. Alternatively, the access opening may be divided (or even concealed) by an outer edge of a door leaf, so that a person can enter the passageway of the revolving door (and thus its interior) through either the left or right of the door leaf.

[0009] One advantage of this method is the optimization of the timing of the motor assistance, ensuring a natural and smooth movement into and through the revolving door. Another advantage is energy savings achieved by minimizing the time required for motor assistance. Furthermore, air and heat exchange between the interior and exterior of the building is reduced.

[0010] Specifically, the motor assistance for the revolving door's drive begins when the approaching person is just about to touch the door leaf in front of them to initiate it. This means that the timing for initiating the motor assistance is precisely timed to the moment the person extends their hand and almost reaches the door leaf. This precise timing is made possible by calculating the estimated arrival time at the door, based on the captured sensor data, so that the motor assistance starts exactly when the person is about to touch the door leaf. The advantage of this precise timing is that the motor assistance doesn't start too early, which helps avoid the impression of a fully automatic door and continues to encourage the person to actively push the door leaf themselves. This prevents misunderstandings and ensures a natural and smooth movement through the door.Furthermore, the time required for motor assistance is minimized, saving energy and reducing air exchange between the building's interior and exterior. This requires communication between the sensors and the revolving door's control unit. The sensors continuously detect the movement data of approaching individuals and transmit it to the control unit, which calculates the arrival time, particularly in real time, and controls the drive accordingly. This real-time communication ensures that the motor assistance starts and ends at precisely the right moment. Another advantage of this precise control is the improved user experience, as people perceive the door as smooth and efficient, without feeling that it reacts too slowly or too quickly.Optimizing the timing of support not only contributes to energy efficiency and comfort, but also to the longevity of the door mechanisms, as unnecessary stress caused by incorrect timing is avoided.

[0011] In particular, the motor assistance of the drive begins when the approaching person reaches a distance of 70 cm to 120 cm, preferably 90 cm to 110 cm, from the door handle of the door leaf in front of them, based on the calculated presumed time or on sensor data. This ensures that the motor assistance is initiated precisely when the person is about to push the door leaf open. This precise determination of the assistance time is based on the assumption that the average arm length of a user is approximately 0.75 m and that the person, with their arm extended or, presumably, still slightly bent, maintains a certain distance from the door handle.The advantage of this design is that the motor assistance begins neither too early nor too late, thus preventing the person from being misled into thinking it is a fully automatic revolving door, while simultaneously enabling a smooth and natural passage. The distance can be determined using the existing sensor technology or by analyzing the collected sensor data. The person can be regularly represented as a point with a specific position in space, allowing the distance to the door handle to be determined, or predicted for the future based on a known or forecasted walking speed. By precisely adjusting the approach distance, the duration of the motor assistance is minimized, resulting in energy savings and reduced air exchange between the building's interior and exterior.This is particularly advantageous in air-conditioned buildings, as it reduces heat exchange and associated energy losses.

[0012] To determine the precise moment when the motor assistance of the drive should be initiated, a calculation example can be used. This takes into account the geometry of the revolving door and the average arm length of a user. Assume the average arm length is 0.75 m. If the person's speed is measured, it can be calculated, based on this speed and the known geometry of the revolving door, when the person would still be a certain distance from the door handle with their arm fully extended. For example, if the person approaches at a speed of 1 m / s and the geometry of the revolving door is considered, it can be calculated that the motor assistance of the drive is initiated so that the rotation of the door leaves begins when the person, with their arm fully extended, is still approximately 20 cm to 30 cm from the door handle.This ensures that the motor assistance starts in time to allow a smooth passage through the revolving door, but also does not start too early.

[0013] According to a further embodiment, the method for operating a semi-automatic revolving door comprises step e) of supporting the rotational movement of the at least two door leaves by the drive, while the person pushes or continues to rotate the door leaf in front of them in order to enable smooth passage through the revolving door.

[0014] According to a further embodiment, the method for operating a semi-automatic revolving door comprises step f) of stopping the motor's assistance in the rotation of the at least two door leaves when the person releases the door leaf in front of them or has passed through the passage area of ​​the revolving door. This step ensures that the motor assistance is only active when actually needed, resulting in more efficient energy use. As soon as either a sensor detects, or it can be assumed based on an estimation, that the person is no longer touching the door leaf or has left the passage area, the motor assistance is stopped. This can also be set with a desired time delay, or the door leaves can be moved further into a desired end position.In any case, the stopping process is initiated by the detection that the person has released the door leaf in front of them or has passed through the passageway of the revolving door. This prevents unnecessary energy consumption and reduces wear and tear on the drive mechanism. Furthermore, it minimizes air exchange between the interior and exterior of the building, leading to improved climate control and energy savings. The revolving door thus remains in optimal operating condition, as it is only motorized when a person actually passes through the door, or, if necessary, continues to operate for a predetermined period.

[0015] Specifically, the motor stops assisting the rotation of the at least two door leaves when the person has completely passed through the passage area of ​​the revolving door. As soon as the person has completely left the passage area, the motor assistance stops or the stopping process is initiated (for example, after a desired time delay). The term "passage area" refers to the area within the revolving door through which the person passes, while "completely passed" means that the person has completely left this area and is now outside the revolving door. In particular, a time delay can be omitted, and the stopping can occur immediately after the person leaves the passage area.

[0016] According to a further embodiment, the revolving door is provided with at least one additional auxiliary sensor, preferably for monitoring the exit side of the revolving door. This additional sensor complements the functionality of the existing sensors that monitor the approach side of the revolving door. Integrating this additional auxiliary sensor optimizes the detection of pedestrian movement by precisely monitoring not only approach but also exit from the revolving door. This enables improved control of the motor drive by optimally supporting and, if necessary, stopping the rotational movement of the door leaves not only when a person approaches but also when exiting the revolving door.One advantage of this additional monitoring is increased efficiency of the door control, as the motor assistance is only activated when actually needed, leading to a reduction in energy consumption. Furthermore, air exchange between the interior and exterior is minimized, which in turn reduces heat exchange and thus contributes to better energy efficiency of the building.

[0017] Auxiliary sensors can also be provided on both sides. In principle, depending on the perspective or the passage of people from one or the opposite side, both sides can represent an approach side or an exit side.

[0018] In principle, the auxiliary sensor(s), as well as the (main) sensor (at least one) for detecting people's movements, and even several of these (main) sensors, can each be a radar sensor or a lidar sensor. Such sensors are capable of capturing precise movement data and transmitting it to the revolving door's control unit. It is also possible for the (main) sensor to function as the primary sensor on each side (approach side and exit side) when viewed from the approach side, and as an auxiliary sensor when passing through the revolving door from the other side.

[0019] The use of an additional auxiliary sensor increases the reliability and accuracy of the door control, resulting in an improved user experience, as the door leaves rotate synchronously with the movement of the person, thus enabling smooth passage.

[0020] Specifically, the additional auxiliary sensor is intended to detect only the presence of a person passing through the revolving door's passage area and exiting on the exit side. In this case, the auxiliary sensor can only be positioned separately from the (main) sensor on that side. The use of such an additional auxiliary sensor, specifically designed to detect the presence of people passing through the revolving door's passage area and exiting on the exit side, can then be configured more efficiently, simply detecting the person's presence without measuring additional data such as speed or direction. Integrating this auxiliary sensor offers several advantages. First, it enables more precise control of the revolving door's drive by ensuring that the motor assistance ends precisely when the person leaves the passage area.This contributes to energy savings, as the drive remains active only as long as necessary for the smooth passage of the person. Secondly, this precise control minimizes air and heat exchange between the interior and exterior of the building, which is particularly beneficial in air-conditioned environments. The auxiliary sensor works in conjunction with the existing sensors that detect the approach speed and direction of the person, thus complementing the existing sensor system to ensure comprehensive monitoring of both the approach and exit sides of the revolving door. By detecting the presence of a person on the exit side, the system can determine the optimal time to stop the motor assistance, resulting in smoother operation of the revolving door.This not only improves the user experience by enabling smooth and intuitive movement through the door, but also reduces the mechanical stress on the door leaves and drive mechanism, thus extending the lifespan of the components. Overall, the introduction of the additional auxiliary sensor contributes to more efficient and user-friendly operation of the semi-automatic revolving door by optimizing the interaction between the various system components and reducing operating costs.

[0021] In particular, it is intended that the presence of a person on the exit side opposite the approach side of the revolving door, or the exit side itself, will be used to stop the drive from supporting the rotational movement of the at least two door leaves.

[0022] Furthermore, the procedure for controlling a semi-automatic revolving door may comprise the following two steps: Analyzing motor load values ​​of the drive to detect when the person stops independently pushing the door leaf in front of them; and stopping the motor assistance based on this detection.

[0023] This can be achieved by continuously monitoring the motor load values, which indicate how much force the drive must exert to keep the door leaves in motion. As soon as the motor load values ​​fall below a certain threshold, indicating that the person is no longer actively pushing the door leaf, the motor assistance is stopped. This detection enables precise control of the motor assistance and helps to increase the efficiency of door operation. A desired time delay can also be set, or a condition can be defined for how far the door leaves should continue to rotate. The user experience is improved by accurately detecting the point at which the person stops pushing the door leaf, as the door leaves are less likely to stop prematurely and thus cause an abrupt stop.Using motor load values ​​as an indicator for the termination of motor assistance ensures that the door control is based on precise and reliable data.

[0024] According to a further embodiment, it is provided that the time when the person is about to push the door leaf includes at least one of the following two times: between 0.001 s and 3 s, preferably between 0.001 s and 2 s, more preferably between 0.001 s and 1 s, before the calculated presumed arrival time; and / or a presumed entry of the person into the passage area of ​​the revolving door.

[0025] The first-mentioned point in time, or specific timeframe, ensures that the motor assistance of the revolving door begins precisely and in a timely manner to allow for smooth and efficient passage. The calculation of the estimated arrival time is based on the detected speed and direction of approach of the person, which is made possible by the revolving door's sensors. This is particularly important because the semi-automatic revolving door is designed to assist, not completely replace, the human pushing motion. Activating the motor assistance too early could cause the person to perceive the door as moving too slowly, which would impair the desired smooth passage.Optimizing the timing of the assistance not only improves the user experience but also minimizes energy consumption, as the motor assistance is only activated when actually needed. The second timing, in turn, means that the motor assistance of the drive is initiated as soon as the person enters the passageway of the revolving door. The advantage of this design lies in the precise determination of the optimal time for the motor assistance, thereby reducing the likelihood that the person will misunderstand the revolving door as fully automatic and expect it to move without their input.

[0026] Furthermore, according to a second independent aspect of the disclosure, as set out in claim 7, a method for operating a semi-automatic revolving door is proposed, which method comprises at least the following steps A) to E): A) Providing a revolving door with at least two door leaves, a drive unit, and at least one sensor for detecting pedestrian movement, wherein the drive unit is configured to rotate the at least two door leaves within a passage area of ​​the revolving door. B) Detecting the speed and direction of approach of at least one person approaching from an approach side of the revolving door using the at least one sensor. C) Calculating an estimated exit time of the person from the revolving door on an exit side of the revolving door opposite the approach side, based on the detected speed and direction of approach. D) Assisting the rotation of the at least two door leaves with the drive unit while the person pushes or rotates one of the door leaves in front of them to allow smooth passage through the revolving door.E) Stopping the assistance of the rotating motion of the at least two door leaves by the drive at a time selected based on the calculated presumed exit time such that the assistance of the rotating motion ends when the person is about to leave the passage area of ​​the revolving door.

[0027] Technical features or advantages that are or have been described only in relation to the aforementioned first-mentioned proposed method for operating a semi-automatic revolving door as described in claim 1 may, where technically appropriate, be adapted and transferred to the aforementioned further proposed method for operating a semi-automatic revolving door and form independent embodiments of this method, and vice versa.

[0028] According to a further embodiment (again analogously), the revolving door is provided with at least one additional auxiliary sensor, preferably for monitoring the exit side. Preferably, the additional auxiliary sensor may only detect the presence of the person passing through the passage area of ​​the revolving door and exiting accordingly on the exit side.

[0029] According to a further embodiment (of the two proposed methods), a desired starting position is preset such that the outer edges of the at least two door leaves are not positioned within the access area of ​​an entry opening of the revolving door. This means that the door leaves are stopped in a position that does not block access to the entry opening. This presetting of the desired starting position offers several advantages. First, it ensures that access to the revolving door for arriving persons is not obstructed by the door leaves, thus increasing the comfort and user-friendliness of the door. Second, this presetting can contribute to improving the energy efficiency of the door.If the door leaves are not positioned in the access area, air exchange between the interior and exterior of the building is minimized, which can lead to better climate control and energy savings. Thirdly, presetting the desired exit position also increases safety, as it reduces the risk of collisions between the door leaves and people entering or exiting the doorway.

[0030] According to a further embodiment (of the two proposed methods), the outer edge of one of the at least two door leaves is positioned in the desired starting position directly in front of, preferably immediately in front of, the access area of ​​the entrance opening. This arrangement of the outer edge of a door leaf directly in front of the access area of ​​the entrance opening offers several advantages. It ensures that the door leaves are in a position that does not block access to the entrance opening, thus facilitating entry and exit. Furthermore, it allows the arriving person to enter the passage area of ​​the revolving door as fully as possible while simultaneously ensuring the largest possible opening width of the entrance opening. Additionally, the distance traveled by the door leaves, including the necessary motor assistance, until the person has passed through is minimized.

[0031] According to a further embodiment (of the two proposed methods), the drive mechanism stops assisting the rotation of the at least two door leaves by activating a time delay. This ensures that even if the person stops rotating the door leaf in front of them, the drive automatically rotates the at least two door leaves into a desired, fully rotated stopping position. This means that the revolving door drive does not immediately stop assisting the door leaves as soon as the person stops pushing the door leaf, but rather incorporates a short time delay. This delay allows the door leaves to continue rotating into a predetermined position even if the person is no longer actively moving the door leaf.The advantage of this time-delayed stop function is that the door leaves can be brought into an optimal position, which may facilitate access for the next person or ensure that the door leaves do not remain in a position that blocks access.

[0032] In particular, it can be provided that, in the desired extended stop position, no outer edge of the at least two door leaves is positioned within the access area of ​​the opening. This means that the door leaves are arranged so that they do not block access to the revolving door when the motor assistance ends. Positioning the door leaves in an extended stop position ensures that access to the revolving door remains unobstructed at all times, thus increasing comfort and ease of use. This is especially important in high-traffic areas where smooth and unimpeded pedestrian movement must be guaranteed.

[0033] In particular, it can be stipulated that the desired, fully rotated stopping position is the desired starting position. This desired starting position is a preset position that ensures the door leaves do not remain in the access area of ​​the opening, which could obstruct access for subsequent persons.

[0034] According to a further embodiment (of the two proposed methods), the at least one sensor is a radar sensor and / or a lidar sensor. These specific sensor types offer a precise and reliable method for detecting people's movements, which is crucial for optimizing door control. Radar sensors use electromagnetic waves to measure the distance, speed, and direction of objects, while lidar sensors use light pulses to capture accurate three-dimensional information about the environment. By integrating these sensor technologies, the revolving door can detect a person's approach speed and direction with high accuracy. One advantage of using radar sensors is their ability to operate independently of lighting and weather conditions, making them particularly reliable in diverse environments.Lidar sensors, on the other hand, can offer high resolution and accuracy in detecting distances and movements, which can improve the detection and tracking of people's movements.

[0035] In principle, the applicant's MotionIQ technology can also be used to support the tasks of capturing or processing sensor data.

[0036] In particular, the method can include determining whether at least one person intends to pass through the revolving door, preferably by evaluating the body orientation, posture (especially sitting or lying positions), facial expressions, gestures, and / or gaze direction of that person. Specifically, a person for whom a desire to pass through has been determined can be weighted differently when evaluating the recorded movements of people than a person for whom no desire to pass through has been determined. Reference can also be made to the European patent application EP4095341A1, filed by the present applicant, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.The expert can glean basic information from this registration regarding door control and the detection of person movements, as well as inferences regarding access requests.

[0037] In particular, an initial analysis of the recorded person movements can be carried out in such a way that the initial analysis includes a detection of whether a group of people is approaching the revolving door whose number exceeds a predefined threshold, and / or whether a person is approaching the revolving door at a speed that falls below a predefined threshold.

[0038] According to a further embodiment (of the two proposed methods), the revolving door is configured to operate in a first automatic mode in which the at least two door leaves remain stationary in a basic state. In this mode, the revolving door stays in a resting position until the sensors detect a person approaching. This means that the door leaves do not rotate continuously, but are only activated when a person approaches and wants to use the door. The advantage of this first automatic mode lies in the energy savings, since the drive is only activated when needed, instead of running continuously. This significantly reduces energy consumption and contributes to sustainability.Furthermore, this mode minimizes air exchange between the interior and exterior of the building, which is particularly beneficial in air-conditioned environments as it reduces heat loss. Another advantage is the reduced wear and tear on the revolving door's mechanical components, since they are not constantly in motion but are only activated when needed. This extends the door's lifespan and reduces maintenance costs. The stationary state of the door leaves also provides increased safety, as the leaves do not rotate uncontrollably, thus minimizing the risk of accidents or injuries.

[0039] Alternatively or additionally, the revolving door can be configured for a second automatic operating mode in which the drive unit rotates at least two door leaves at a low speed. This second automatic mode ensures that the door leaves remain in continuous motion, offering several advantages. Firstly, it minimizes waiting times for people wishing to pass through the revolving door, as the door leaves are already moving and do not need to be accelerated from a standstill. This can be particularly beneficial in high-traffic areas such as shopping centers, airports, or office buildings, where a continuous flow of people is desired.Secondly, the basic continuous rotation at low speed can help optimize the drive's energy consumption, as the door leaves do not need to be constantly accelerated from a standstill, which typically requires more energy. Furthermore, this operating mode can also extend the service life of the revolving door's mechanical components, as it reduces the stress caused by frequent start-stop cycles.In this context, a low rotational speed is understood to mean that it is lower than the rotational speed generated by the drive in a true assisted state, when a person pushing through the revolving door attempts to pass through. The comparative value then refers only to the rotational speed generated by the motor assistance in this assisted state, i.e., without the additional rotational speed component caused by the person pushing. Therefore, the assisting torque provided by the drive in the second automatic operating mode is lower than the assisting torque provided by the drive when a person is being assisted by the drive while passing through the revolving door and pushing the door panels.

[0040] The ability to combine both automatic operating modes allows for a particularly flexible system.

[0041] According to a further embodiment (of the two proposed methods), the revolving door is provided with a sensor system that monitors both the approach side and one or the exit side of the revolving door. In particular, the sensor system may include at least one sensor to monitor the approach side and at least one further, preferably similar, sensor to monitor the exit side.

[0042] According to a further embodiment (of the two proposed methods), it is provided that a generator of the revolving door stores energy, in particular from braking processes of the at least two door leaves, in an energy storage device.

[0043] According to a further embodiment (of the two proposed methods), it is provided that the support of the rotational movement is stopped only in the following two situations: firstly, when an emergency stop is triggered, or secondly, when no outer edge of the at least two door leaves is in an access area of ​​an access opening of the revolving door.

[0044] In particular, it may be provided that the stopping of the support of the rotational movement is arranged such that the at least two door leaves continue to rotate until an outer edge of the at least two door leaves is directly in front of an access area of ​​an access opening of the revolving door, provided that there is still sufficient energy in the energy storage device supplied by the generator for this process, or that the at least two door leaves with their outer edges continue to rotate out of the access area of ​​an access opening of the revolving door, but only until there is no energy or a predefined minimum amount of energy in the energy storage device supplied by the generator.

[0045] According to a further embodiment (of the two proposed methods), the desired starting position can be preset differently. For example, with a double-leaf revolving door, the 0° position can be preferred as the desired starting position. This position can ensure a maximum opening width of 60°. Furthermore, the 0° position can provide a certain amount of free space in the passageway, so that people entering have room in the direction of rotation to enter the interior. At the same time, the maximum opening width of 60° is maintained for a certain period, even after a further rotation of 45°. This allows subsequent people to enter the same passageway.

[0046] It may also be preferred if the desired starting position is variable. This variability can depend, in particular, on the sensor data acquired. Furthermore, and preferably, the door leaves of the revolving door can be rotated so that the desired starting position is set at the anticipated arrival time of the person or the first person among several people.

[0047] The desired starting position can be adjusted depending on the number of people registered to enter. Specifically, for a double-leaf revolving door, the 0° position can be set as the desired starting position for groups of up to two people. For groups of more than two people, the 45° position can be set as the desired starting position.

[0048] Preferably, the estimated arrival time and / or departure time of the person at the carousel door can be calculated multiple times, and the control signals for initiating the motor assistance according to step d) and / or for stopping the assistance according to step E) can be corrected or adjusted based on the multiple calculations.

[0049] According to another independent aspect of the present disclosure, a semi-automatic revolving door is proposed as described in claim 13, which semi-automatic revolving door is particularly designed to carry out a proposed method as described above or below, and which semi-automatic revolving door comprises the following: at least two door leaves; a drive unit configured to rotate the at least two door leaves within a passage area of ​​the revolving door; at least one sensor for detecting person movements, wherein the at least one sensor is configured to detect the speed and direction of approach of at least one person approaching from an approach side of the revolving door; and a control unit configured to calculate an estimated time of arrival of the person at the revolving door based on the detected speed and direction of approach.

[0050] The control unit is proposed to be configured, at a time chosen based on the calculated estimated arrival time, to initiate motor assistance when the person is about to push one of the two door leaves in front of them, thereby initiating an automatic, motor-assisted rotation of the at least two door leaves. Furthermore, the drive is proposed to assist the rotation of the at least two door leaves while the person pushes or continues to rotate the door leaf in front of them, thus enabling smooth passage through the revolving door.

[0051] Furthermore, according to another independent aspect of the present disclosure, a semi-automatic revolving door is proposed as described in claim 14, which semi-automatic revolving door is particularly designed to carry out a proposed method as described above or below, and which semi-automatic revolving door comprises the following: at least two door leaves; a drive unit configured to rotate the at least two door leaves within a passage area of ​​the revolving door; at least one sensor for detecting person movements, wherein the at least one sensor is configured to detect the speed and direction of approach of at least one person approaching from an approach side of the revolving door; and a control unit configured to calculate, based on the detected speed and direction of approach, a presumed exit time of the person from the revolving door on an exit side of the revolving door opposite the approach side of the revolving door.

[0052] The drive unit is designed to assist the rotation of at least two door leaves while the person pushes or rotates the door leaf in front of them to allow smooth passage through the revolving door. Furthermore, the control unit is designed to stop assisting the rotation of the at least two door leaves when the person releases the door leaf in front of them or has passed through the passage area of ​​the revolving door.

[0053] According to another independent aspect of the present disclosure, a computer program product is proposed, as described in claim 15, which computer program product comprises instructions that cause the proposed semi-automatic revolving door, as described above and below, to execute the process steps according to the proposed method, as described above and below. The computer program product is configured to operate a proposed semi-automatic revolving door, as described above and below.

[0054] Features described above or below, which may relate to only one type of subject matter of the invention, for example, only to a method for operating a semi-automatic revolving door, can be adapted and transferred to the other subject matter of the claim, such as the semi-automatic revolving door, in a technically meaningful way, and form further proposed embodiments. In particular, the proposed revolving door or its components can be configured to perform the described process steps. Features can also be transferred in a technically meaningful way between the subordinate, independent subject matter of the process or semi-automatic revolving doors, each forming independent embodiments.

[0055] Preferably, the revolving door has two door leaves (so-called double-leaf revolving door), or the revolving door has three door leaves (so-called triple-leaf revolving door), or the revolving door has four door leaves (so-called quadruple-leaf revolving door).

[0056] Further advantageous and preferred embodiments will become apparent from the following description with reference to the figures. The drawing, which merely depicts exemplary embodiments, shows: Fig. 1 a four-leaf revolving door according to an embodiment in an isometric view; Fig. 2 a schematic top view of a four-leaf revolving door, namely according to view a) in a first position with people in the vicinity of the revolving door, and according to view b) in a second, further rotated position of the revolving door compared to the position according to view a); Fig. 3 a schematic top view of a three-leaf revolving door, namely according to view a) in a first position with people in the vicinity of the revolving door, and according to view b) in a second, further rotated position of the revolving door compared to the position according to view a); Fig. 4 a schematic top view of a two-leaf revolving door, namely according to view a) in a first position with people in the vicinity of the revolving door, and according to view b) in a second, further rotated position of the revolving door compared to the position according to view a); Fig.Fig. 5 shows a flowchart of one proposed procedure; and Fig. 6 shows a flowchart of another proposed procedure.

[0057] Fig. 1 Figure 1 shows an isometric view of a revolving door 1. The revolving door 1 includes a turnstile 2. This turnstile 2 has four door leaves 3. The door leaves 3 are each angled at 90° to each other. The turnstile 2 is rotatable about an axis of rotation A. The axis of rotation A extends in the axial direction z. A radial direction r is defined perpendicular to the axial direction z. A circumferential direction u is defined about the axial direction z. The revolving door 1 can, in principle, be rotatable in both opposite directions of rotation with respect to the circumferential direction u. In the present embodiment, illustrated by the figure description, the revolving door 1 is arranged to rotate counterclockwise when viewed from above (see direction of rotation v in Figure 1). Fig. 1 bis 4 ).

[0058] The revolving door 1 is usually installed in a wall 4 in the form of an exterior wall of a building, or in a wall separating two areas of a building (cf. Fig. 2 , Fig. 3 , Fig. 4 ) and provides a passage between an interior side 5 of the building and an exterior side 6 of the building (or the two building areas). For this purpose, the revolving door 1 provides an access opening 7 into its interior, whereby a person passing through the access opening 7 enters a passage area 7a and, as the door leaves 3 rotate along the direction of rotation v, the passage area 7a adjusts for the person entering until the person can leave the interior of the revolving door 1 on the other side.

[0059] A drive 8 is arranged on the turnstile 2 for the automated rotation of the door leaves 3. This drive 8 can be designed as an electronically commutated multipole motor, with one rotor of this drive 8 being connected coaxially to the axis of rotation A of the turnstile 2. This allows the drive 8 to enable a direct and gearless drive of the turnstile 2.

[0060] As from Fig. 1 As can be seen, the access opening 7 is laterally bounded by the left end edge 9 and the right end edge 10 of the revolving door 1. An access area 11 for entering the interior of the revolving door 1 is generally bounded by these end edges 9 and 10, as well as by an upper end edge of the revolving door 1 and regularly by the floor at the bottom, and can extend to a maximum of the entire width of the access opening 7. However, this access area 11 is variable and can be partially obscured by an outer edge 12 of the door leaf(s) 3, or the outer edge 12 can divide the access area 11 into a left access area 11 and a right access area 11 in certain positions of the revolving door 1 or the door leaf(s) 3, as shown in the illustration. Fig. 1 and the corresponding position of the revolving door 1 is the case, and likewise in views b) of the Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 . In view b) of the Fig. 4 In the case of the double-leaf revolving door 1, the outer edges 12 of the two door leaves 3, which are widened by extensions, completely block the two access openings 7 (one at the bottom, one at the top) in the position of the revolving door 1 shown, and thus no longer divide into a left and right accessible access area 11.

[0061] In principle, the variable access area 11 can be defined by the corresponding opening angle. According to view a) in Fig. 1 Four door leaves 3 are provided, such that an angle of 90° is enclosed between each pair of adjacent door leaves 3. The access opening 7 of this four-leaf revolving door 1 is selected to provide an access area 11 with a maximum opening angle of 90°. The resulting open access area 11 with the corresponding opening angle is shown in Fig. 2 In view a) it is indicated by the dashed lines and in that view it is also 90°.

[0062] Similarly, in view b) the Fig. 2 to recognize how two equally sized access areas 11, each with an opening angle of 45° (see dashed lines), are provided, separated by the door leaf 3, which divides the access opening 7 in the middle in the illustration and the corresponding position of the revolving door 1.

[0063] Accordingly, the position can be determined according to view a) of Fig. 2 This can also be referred to as the 0° position of the four-leaf revolving door, which is also the desired starting position of the revolving door 1. In this 0° position, the access area 11 is at its maximum size and can be optimally used by an arriving person to enter the passageway 7a. In this desired starting position, the 0° position, the four door leaves 3 are set so that their outer edges 12 do not extend into the access area 11 or the two access areas 11 of the access opening 7 of the revolving door 1 (or the two access openings 7, as shown in the illustration). Fig. 2 (above, another unmarked access opening is provided for access from the corresponding opposite side). Specifically, the outer edge 12 of the door leaf 3, in the desired starting position shown, are located directly in front of or directly after the access area 11 of the access opening 7, respectively, when viewed in the direction of rotation v.

[0064] From the 0° position according to view a) of the Fig. 2 All subsequent positions can also be described if the door leaves 3 are rotated further in the direction of rotation v. Thus, the position according to view b) can be designated as the 45° position, and all intermediate positions on the way there as the 1° position, 2° position, etc. All positions following the 45° position according to view b) in the direction of rotation can be designated as the 46° position to the 89° position, because the apparent 90° position is again a new 0° position, corresponding to the position according to view a), except that the door leaf 3 previously (in view a)) arranged directly in front of the access area 11 of the access opening 7 now occupies a position as a door leaf arranged directly after the access area 11 of the access opening 7.

[0065] In the case of the three-leaf revolving door 1 according to Fig. 3 With three door leaves 3, two adjacent door leaves each enclose an angle of 120°. The access opening 7 is configured to provide a maximum opening angle of 60° for passage, and this 60° opening angle is now available over a longer rotation range. View a) shows the desired starting position of the three-leaf revolving door 1, which can again be referred to as the 0° position. From this position to the position shown in view b), the door leaves 3 have been rotated a further 30°. View b) therefore shows the 30° position, and two smaller access areas 11 are again formed, each with an opening angle of only 15°. In the position not shown, rotated a further 15°, i.e., the 60° position, a single access area 11 is again formed, which has an opening angle of 60°.In this 60° position, the door leaf 3, which in view a), i.e., the desired starting position, was located directly in front of the access area 11 of the entry opening 7, is now located directly after the access area 11 of the entry opening 7. For the subsequent positions according to the following 59°, i.e., the 61° position up to the 119° position, the access area 11 remains fully open. In the position rotated 60° further, or, viewed from view b), 75° further, the hypothetical 120° position exists, which is again a new 0° position in which the access area 11 is again fully open and which position can again be considered the desired starting position for this lower entry opening 7.

[0066] In the case of the double-leaf revolving door 1 according to Fig. 4 With two door leaves 3, the two door leaves run in a line, forming an angle of 180° between them. The access opening 7 is again configured to provide a maximum opening angle of 60° for passage, and this 60° opening angle can also be maintained over a longer rotation range. View a) shows the 0° position of the double-leaf revolving door 1. From this position to the position shown in view b), the door leaves 3 have been rotated a further 90°. View b) therefore shows the 90° position, and due to the wide outer edge 12, there is no free access area 11, but rather it is completely blocked.

[0067] The desired starting position of the double-leaf revolving door 1 according to Fig. 3 This is not shown, but exists in a position rotated only 45° further from view a), i.e., the 45° position of the double-leaf revolving door 1, when the two outer edges 12 are each positioned with their foremost area, viewed in the direction of rotation v, directly in front of the access area 11 of the entrance opening 7. Here, the maximum opening angle of 60° is provided, and a person can also enter the passage area 7a as far as possible, up to the next door leaf 3 in the direction of rotation.

[0068] According to further embodiments, the desired starting position for all illustrated and described revolving doors 1 can also be preset differently. In particular, the example of the double-leaf revolving door 1 illustrates that setting the 0° position as the desired starting position can also be preferable, since the maximum opening width of 60° is guaranteed, and at the same time a certain free depth of the passage area 7a exists, so that persons entering have space in the direction of rotation v to enter the interior, but simultaneously the maximum opening width of 60° is guaranteed for a further time, namely for a further rotation of another 45°, in order to allow subsequent persons to also enter the same passage area 7a.

[0069] It is therefore particularly advantageous if the desired exit position is variable, especially if it depends on the sensor data acquired. Furthermore, preferably, the door leaves 3 can be rotated such that the desired exit position is set at the anticipated arrival time of the person, or of the first person among several people. Even more preferably, the desired exit position can be adjusted depending on the number of people registered with a desire to enter. In particular, it may be advantageous that, in the case of a double-leaf revolving door 1, the 0° position is set as the desired exit position for groups of up to two people wishing to enter, while for groups of more than two people wishing to enter, the 45° position is set as the desired exit position.

[0070] In principle, it can be provided that the estimated time of arrival for groups of several people wishing to enter is determined by the person whose arrival at carousel door 1 is expected to be quickest, based on the recorded speed and direction of approach.

[0071] Regarding the arrival of persons wishing to enter at carousel door 1, i.e., according to view a) in Fig. 2 Once persons P1 and P2 have passed through the access opening 7, the opening angle available to them for passing through the access area 11 and thus through the access opening 7 can also be referred to as the walking opening angle α1. This walking opening angle α1 is defined between the front end of the outer edge 12 of the door leaf 3 (viewed in the direction of rotation v) and the front closing edge of the revolving door 1 (viewed in the direction of rotation v), in this case, the right closing edge 10. However, this only applies if a door leaf 3 is in a corresponding rotational position within the area of ​​the access opening 7 and not if there is no outer edge 12 present in the area of ​​the access opening 7. Then the two end edges 9, 10 simply define the current walking opening angle α 1 , which then corresponds to the maximum possible opening angle.

[0072] For illustration, the situations depicted according to views a) and b) are referred to below. Fig. 2 bis 4 , and there, reference is made to the lower access opening 7: In view a) of the Fig. 2 The prevailing access opening angle α is 90°; in view b) it is 45°. In view a) the Fig. 3 The prevailing access opening angle α is 60°; in view b) it is 30°. In view a) the Fig. 4 The prevailing opening angle α1 is 60°; in view b) it is 0°, since the outer edge 12 of the door leaf 3 blocks the access opening 7. Furthermore, the corresponding opening angles α1 of the upper access openings 7, which are not explicitly shown, are the same as those of the lower access openings 7.

[0073] Regarding the specific situation of entry or passage by persons, such as persons P1, P2, P3 and P4 in views a) of the Fig. 2 , 3 and 4 , an approach side 13 and an exit side 14 of the revolving door 1 can always be defined. From the approach side 13, in the cases of the Fig. 2 bis 4 Persons P1, P2, P3 and P4 can approach the revolving door 1 from the outer side of the building 6 in order to get to the other side, i.e. the inner side of the building 5 and thus the exit side 14, through the revolving door 1.

[0074] Specifically, the movements of people can be detected by sensor D5 in the detection area E5 marked by the dashed line, and by sensor D6 in the detection area E6 on the approach side. Therefore, in the cases shown, the movement of person P4 cannot yet be detected. The movements of people P1, P2, and P3 can be detected and analyzed. The respective arrow indicates a vector representing the speed and direction of approach of each person P1, P2, or P3. Based on the sensor data, it can be concluded that person P3 is moving away from revolving door 1 and therefore likely does not intend to enter. Only people P1 and P2 are moving towards revolving door 1, and thus an intention to enter can be assumed.

[0075] Firstly, it can be determined that person P1 will probably reach carousel door 1 first, because firstly, they are closer to the (lower) access opening 7 and secondly, they are moving faster (represented by the larger vector arrow).

[0076] To illustrate the advantages of the proposed procedure, one can refer to the Fig. 2 bis 4 , as well as simultaneously on the Fig. 5 and 6 Reference is made to the following, each illustrating a flowchart of the proposed procedures.

[0077] As already described above, in step S100, the revolving door 1 is first provided with at least two door leaves 3, in which Fig. 1 and 2 The illustrated example of a four-leaf revolving door 1 with four door leaves 3, and of a three-leaf revolving door 1 with three door leaves 3 (see. Fig. 3 ) and in the case of a double-leaf revolving door 1 with two door leaves 3, as well as a drive 8 and at least one sensor D5 or D6 for detecting person movements, wherein the drive 8 of the revolving door 1 can rotate the at least two door leaves 3 within a passage area 7a of the revolving door 1, the detection of person movements takes place in step S200. For this purpose, the at least one sensor D5 or D6 detects the person movements in its respective detection area E5 or E6, specifically the speed and direction of approach of at least one person P1 or P2 approaching from the approach side 13 of the revolving door 1.

[0078] This is then followed, according to a proposed variant of the procedure, as described in Fig. 5 As shown in step S300, the calculation of an estimated arrival time for person P1 or P2 at revolving door 1 is performed based on the detected speed and approach direction. Specifically, the estimated arrival times can be calculated for both persons P1 and P2. Alternatively, it can first be deduced which person is expected at the door first, in this case person P1, and only their estimated arrival time is calculated. In any case, when the control of revolving door 1 depends on the estimated arrival time, it should regularly be directed towards the estimated arrival time of the first arriving person, P1.

[0079] In contrast to this procedure according to Fig. 5 This occurs in accordance with the proposed procedure. Fig. 6 Not the aforementioned step S300, but rather step 350 involves calculating a presumed exit time of persons P1 or P2 from the revolving door 1 on exit side 14 of the revolving door 1, based on the detected speed and approach direction. If several exit times can be calculated, the latest presumed exit time can then be used as the basis for further control.

[0080] In addition to speed and approach direction, the position of the detected person P1 or P2 is naturally also factored into the two aforementioned calculation methods. The applicant's Motion-IQ technology can be used in principle. Using a corresponding technology that monitors the detection area E6 or E5 in front of the revolving door 1 via sensor D6 or D5, the area in front of the door is observed, and the arrival time is calculated from the direction and speed of movement of person P1 or P2. Similarly, this technology can also be used to calculate the departure time, whereby assumptions can be made about how long a person P1 or P2 typically needs to pass through the revolving door 1, an assumption that can also be dependent on the person's speed.

[0081] In step S400, according to the in turn in Fig. 5 In the illustrated embodiment, motor support for the drive 8 is initiated, thereby also triggering an automatic, motor-assisted rotary movement of the at least two door leaves 3. This initiation takes place at a time that is selected based on the calculated estimated arrival time such that the motor support begins when person P1 or P2 is about to push one of the at least two door leaves 3 in front of them.

[0082] The point in time at which person P1 or P2 intends to push door leaf 3 can be understood as the point in time when person P1 or P2 reaches for door leaf 3. This point in time can be predefined for the operation of the procedure. By definition, this point in time can include the following points in time: between 0.001 s and 3 s, preferably between 0.001 s and 2 s, more preferably between 0.001 s and 1 s, before the calculated presumed arrival time; and / or a presumed entry of person P1 or P2 into passage area 7a of revolving door 1.

[0083] Various values ​​can be incorporated into the determination. In particular, the revolving door geometry can be used for this purpose, specifically the diameter of the revolving door 1, or the size of the door leaves 3, as well as the position of a door handle. Furthermore, a predefined, for example, typical, arm movement speed and / or a predefined, for example, typical, arm length of an average user can be used as a basis in order to estimate the time as accurately as possible from the recorded speed and approach direction of person P1 or P2.

[0084] Corresponding values, such as the geometry of the revolving door, can also be used to determine the estimated arrival time of person P1 or P2 at revolving door 1.

[0085] The aim is to start the motor assistance as late as possible, but before person P1 or P2 would otherwise have to set the door leaf 3 in rotation on their own without motor assistance.

[0086] It may be preferable for the maximum preset motor assistance to already be available when person P1 or P2 is expected to reach for door leaf 3. This may require that the motor assistance for the rotational movement be initiated with a certain lead time, so that the desired full assistance level is available when person P1 or P2 also rotates door leaf 3 themselves.

[0087] The moment when person P1 or P2 is about to push open a door leaf 3 located in front of them can, by definition, also include a kind of safety factor. For example, this moment can be defined as occurring when, according to calculations, person P1 or P2 is expected to be no more than 0.5 m, preferably no more than 0.4 m, more preferably no more than 0.3 m, and more preferably no more than 0.2 m, away from the door leaf 3. "Away from the door leaf 3" can be understood to mean the distance between the person and the corresponding door leaf 3, plus an assumed outstretched arm length. This assumed outstretched arm length can be preset and, for example, be 0.75 m. It may also be possible to estimate the arm length based on the acquired sensor data and incorporate it individually into the calculation.

[0088] Following step S400, the execution proceeds according to Fig. 5 In step S500, the drive 8 assists the rotational movement of at least two door leaves 3 while person P1 or P2 pushes or rotates the door leaf 3 in front of them to allow smooth passage through the revolving door 1. Person P1 or P2 does not push the door leaf 3 entirely on their own; rather, the rotational movement is assisted by a motor. This motorized assistance for the entire rotational movement is not mandatory. According to another embodiment, the motorized assistance could be provided only at the beginning to make it easier for person P1 or P2 to push the door leaf 3 by overcoming its inertia. Person P1 or P2 could then complete the rest of the rotational movement using their own strength without motorized assistance.

[0089] In the execution according to Fig. 6 Following step S350, step S450 then involves the motorized support of the rotational movement of the at least two door leaves 3 by the drive 8, as described above, while person P1 or P2 pushes or rotates the door leaf 3 in front of them to allow smooth passage through the revolving door 1. Furthermore, in the implementation according to Fig. 6 The order of steps S450 and S350 may also be reversed, and support may take place before (or even simultaneously with) a calculation.

[0090] The special feature of the design according to Fig. 6 The aim is that, finally, in step S550, the assistance of the rotational movement of the at least two door leaves 3 by the drive 8 is stopped again, specifically at a time chosen based on the calculated presumed exit time such that the assistance of the rotational movement ends when person P1 or P2 is about to leave the passage area 7a of the revolving door 1. This allows for the earliest possible stopping of the motor assistance, thus enabling both energy-efficient operation of the revolving door 1 and the avoidance of unnecessary heat loss through air exchange between the building's interior and exterior 5 or 6.

[0091] Even in the execution variant of the procedure as described in Fig. 5 As shown, it is conceivable that, following step S500, the support for the rotational movement of the at least two door leaves 3 by the drive 8 could be readjusted as automatically as possible. For example, analogous to the variant according to Fig. 6 specifically at a time which is chosen based on the calculated presumed departure time such that the support of the rotational movement ends when person P1 or P2 is about to leave the passage area 7a of the carousel door 1 again.

[0092] However, it is also conceivable that the drive 8 stops supporting the rotational movement of the at least two door leaves 3 when person P1 or P2 releases the door leaf 3 in front of them or has passed through the passage area 7a of the revolving door 1, for example, completely. Additional auxiliary sensors can be used for this purpose, such as the auxiliary sensor D5b (see figure). Fig. 2 bis Fig. 4 ), which auxiliary sensors monitor the exit side 14 of the revolving door 1. Advantageously, this can be a very simple auxiliary sensor D5b, which only detects the presence of person P1 or P2 passing through the passage area 7a of the revolving door 1 and exiting accordingly at the exit side 14.

[0093] Another alternative for stopping the motor assistance, which could also be done in addition to the previously described presence detection on the exit side 14, is to analyze the motor load values ​​of the drive 8 to detect when person P1 or P2 stops proactively pushing the door leaf 3 in front of them using their own strength. The motor assistance can then also be stopped based on this detection.

[0094] Within the framework of steps S100 or S500 or S550, both according to Fig. 5 as well as Fig. 6 Following the passage of person P1 or P2, and possibly before the motor assistance of the revolving door 1 stops, a desired starting position of the revolving door 1 can also be set. The desired starting position is preferably preset such that the outer edges 12 of the at least two door leaves 3 are not positioned within the access area 11 of the entrance opening 7 of the revolving door 1. This allows for particularly smooth, seamless passage through the passage area 7a of the revolving door 1, without the risk of collision with the outer edge 12 or the need for unnecessary waiting in front of the revolving door 1. It is further preferred that an outer edge 12 of one of the at least two door leaves 3 is positioned just in front of, or even more preferably directly in front of, the access area 11 of the entrance opening 7 in the desired starting position.This allows for the most extensive possible access area directly into passageway 7a and minimizes the time required for the passage of person P1 or P2.

[0095] In the Fig. 5 or the procedures shown and described above in section 6, or in the case of the corresponding revolving doors 1 according to Fig. 1 bis Fig. 4 It is possible to preset the stopping of the motor assistance for the rotation of the door leaves 3. Specifically, the stopping of the assistance for the rotation of the at least two door leaves 3 by the drive 8 can, for example, be implemented in such a way that the stopping occurs with a time delay, so that even if person P1 or P2 no longer rotates the door leaf 3 in front of them, the at least two door leaves 3 are automatically rotated into a desired, further rotated stopping position by means of the drive 8. This stopping position can be defined such that, in the desired, further rotated stopping position, no outer edge 12 of the at least two door leaves 3 is located in the access area 11 of the access opening 7. It can be specifically provided that the desired, further rotated stopping position is the previously described desired starting position.

[0096] The proposed revolving doors 1, as depicted and described, can be operated in different modes. For example, the revolving door 1 can be configured in a first automatic operating mode in which the at least two door leaves 3 remain stationary in a basic state. This means that the door leaves 3 do not rotate automatically but are in a resting position. Furthermore, the revolving door 1 can be configured in a second automatic operating mode in which the at least two door leaves 3 are continuously rotated at a low speed by the drive 8.In this context, a low rotational speed is understood to mean that this low rotational speed is lower than the rotational speed generated by the drive 8 in a true assisted state, when a person pushing through the revolving door 1 attempts to pass through it. The comparative value then refers only to the rotational speed generated by the motor assistance in this assisted state, i.e., without the additional rotational speed component generated by the person pushing. Accordingly, the assisting torque provided by the drive 8 in the second automatic operating mode is lower than the assisting torque provided by the drive 8 when a person is being assisted by the drive 8 while passing through the revolving door 1 and pushing the door leaves 3. Bezugszeichenliste

[0097] 1 Revolving door 2 Turnstile 3 Door leaf 4 Wall 5 Building interior 6 Building exterior 7 Access opening 7a Passageway 8 Drive unit 9 Left end edge 10 Right end edge 11 Access area 12 Outer edge (of a door leaf) 13 Approach side 14 Exit side D5; D6 Sensor(s) D5b Auxiliary sensor E5; E6 Detection range(s) A axis of rotation z axial direction r radial direction u circumferential direction v direction of rotation

Claims

1. Method for operating a semi-automatic revolving door (1), comprising the steps of: a) providing a revolving door (1) with at least two door leaves (3), a drive (8) and at least one sensor (D5; D6) for detecting person movements, wherein the drive (8) is configured to rotate the at least two door leaves (3) within a passage area (7a) of the revolving door (1); b) detecting the speed and direction of approach of at least one person (P1; P2) approaching from an approach side (13) of the revolving door (1) using the at least one sensor (D5; D6); c) calculating an estimated time of arrival of the person (P1; P2) at the revolving door (1) based on the detected speed and direction of approach;d) Initiating motor assistance of the drive (8) and thereby initiating an automatic, motor-assisted rotary movement of the at least two door leaves (3) at a time chosen based on the calculated presumed arrival time such that the motor assistance begins when the person (P1; P2) is about to push one of the door leaves (3) in front of them.

2. Method according to claim 1, comprising the step: e) supporting the rotational movement of the at least two door leaves (3) by the drive (8), while the person (P1; P2) pushes or rotates the door leaf (3) in front of them to enable a smooth passage through the revolving door (1). 3.Method according to claim 2, comprising the step: f) stopping the support of the rotational movement of the at least two door leaves (3) by the drive (8) 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 completely.

4. Method according to claim 3, wherein the stopping of the support of the rotational movement of the at least two door leaves (3) by the drive (8) takes place when the person (P1; P2) has completely passed through the passage area (7a) of the revolving door (1). 5.Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the revolving door (1) has at least one further auxiliary sensor (D5b), preferably for monitoring an exit side (14) of the revolving door (1) opposite the approach side (13) of the revolving door (1); wherein, preferably, the further auxiliary sensor (D5b) only detects the presence of the person (P1; P2) passing through the passage area (7a) of the revolving door (1) and exiting accordingly at the exit side (14). 5.A method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the detected presence of the person (P1; P2) on the approach side (13) of the revolving door (1) opposite the exit side (14) is used to stop the assistance of the drive (8) in the rotational movement of the at least two door leaves (3); and / or comprising the two steps of: - analyzing motor load values ​​of the drive (8) to detect when the person (P1; P2) stops independently pushing the door leaf (3) in front of them; and - stopping the motor assistance based on this detection. 6.Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the time when the person (P1; P2) is about to push the door leaf (3) comprises the following times: - between 0.001 s and 3 s, preferably between 0.001 s and 2 s, more preferably between 0.001 s and 1 s, before the calculated presumed arrival time; and / or - a presumed entry of the person (P1; P2) into the passage area (7a) of the revolving door (1). 7.Method for operating a semi-automatic revolving door (1), comprising the steps of: A) providing a revolving door (1) with at least two door leaves (3), a drive (8) and at least one sensor (D5; D6) for detecting person movements, wherein the drive (8) is configured to rotate the at least two door leaves (3) within a passage area (7a) of the revolving door (1); B) detecting the speed and direction of approach of at least one person (P1; P2) approaching from an approach side (13) of the revolving door (1) using the at least one sensor (D5; D6); C) calculating a presumed exit time of the person (P1; P2) from the revolving door (1) on an exit side (14) of the revolving door (1) opposite the approach side (13) of the revolving door (1) based on the detected speed and direction of approach;D) Assisting the rotation of the at least two door leaves (3) by the drive (8) while the person (P1; P2) pushes or rotates one of the door leaves (3) in front of them to allow smooth passage through the revolving door (1); E) Stopping the assistance of the rotation of the at least two door leaves (3) by the drive (8) at a time chosen based on the calculated presumed exit time such that the assistance of the rotation ends when the person (P1; P2) is about to leave the passage area (7a) of the revolving door (1). 8.Method according to claim 7, wherein the revolving door has at least one further auxiliary sensor (D5b), preferably for monitoring the exit side (14); wherein, preferably, the further auxiliary sensor (D5b) only detects the presence of the person (P1; P2) passing through the passage area (7a) of the revolving door (1) and exiting accordingly on the exit side (14).

9. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a desired starting position is preset such that in the desired access position no outer edge (12) of the at least two door leaves (3) divides or covers the access area (11) of the access opening (7) of the revolving door (1), and / or that an outer edge (12) of one of the at least two door leaves (3) is arranged in an angle range of up to 15°, preferably up to 5°, in front of, preferably directly in front of, the access opening (7), when viewed in the direction of rotation (v). 10.A method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the stopping of the support of the rotational movement of the at least two door leaves (3) by the drive (8) is carried out in such a way that the stopping takes place with a time delay, so that, even if the person (P1; P2) no longer rotates the door leaf (3) in front of them, the at least two door leaves (3) are automatically rotated into a desired further rotated stopping position by means of the drive (8); wherein, preferably, in the desired further rotated stopping position, no outer edge (12) of the at least two door leaves (3) divides or covers the access area (11) of the access opening (7) of the revolving door (1) and / or the desired further rotated stopping position is the desired starting position. 11.Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the revolving door (1) is configured to be placed in a first automatic operating mode in which the at least two door leaves (3) are stationary in a basic state; and / or wherein the revolving door (1) is configured to be placed in a second automatic operating mode in which the at least two door leaves (3) are rotated by the drive (8) at a generally low rotational speed.

12. Method according to 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); wherein, preferably, the sensor system comprises at least one sensor (D6) to monitor the approach side (13) and at least one further, in particular similar, sensor (D5) to monitor the exit side (14). 13.Semi-automatic revolving door (1), preferably configured for carrying out a method according to one of claims 1 to 12, comprising: - at least two door leaves (3); - a drive (8) configured to rotate the at least two door leaves (3) within a passage area (7a) of the revolving door (1); - at least one sensor (D5; D6) for detecting person movements, wherein the at least one sensor (D5; D6) is configured to detect the speed and direction of approach of at least one person (P1; P2) approaching from an approach side (13) of the revolving door (1); and - a control unit configured to calculate an estimated time of arrival of the person (P1; P2) at the revolving door (1) based on the detected speed and direction of approach;wherein the control unit is further configured to initiate motor assistance of the drive (8) at a time selected based on the calculated estimated time of arrival, when the person (P1; P2) is about to push one of the two door leaves (3) in front of them, thereby initiating an automatic, motor-assisted rotation of the at least two door leaves (3); and, preferably further, wherein the drive (8) is configured to assist the rotation of the at least two door leaves (3) while the person (P1; P2) pushes or continues to rotate the door leaf (3) in front of them to allow smooth passage through the revolving door (1). 14.Semi-automatic revolving door (1), preferably configured for carrying out a method according to one of claims 1 to 12, comprising: - at least two door leaves (3); - a drive (8) configured to rotate the at least two door leaves (3) within a passage area (7a) of the revolving door (1); - at least one sensor (D5; D6) for detecting person movements, wherein the at least one sensor (D5; D6) is configured to detect a speed and an approach direction of at least one person (P1; P2) approaching from an approach side (13) of the revolving door (1); as well as - a control unit which is set up to calculate, based on the detected speed and direction of approach, a presumed exit time of the person (P1; P2) from the revolving door (1) on an exit side (14) of the revolving door (1) opposite the approach side (13) of the revolving door (1);wherein the drive (8) is configured to assist the rotational movement of the at least two door leaves (3) while the person (P1; P2) pushes or rotates the door leaf (3) in front of them to allow smooth passage through the revolving door (1); and wherein the control unit is further configured to stop the drive (8) from assisting the rotational movement of the at least two door leaves (3) 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).

15. Computer program product comprising commands that cause the semi-automatic revolving door according to claim 13 or 14 to perform the method steps according to one of claims 1 to 12.

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