Handrail belt sterilization system

Abstract

To provide a handrail belt sterilization system capable of prolonging the lifetime of a sterilization part while effectively sterilizing the handrail belt.SOLUTION: A handrail belt sterilization system S is the one for the passenger conveyor with a handrail belt running in circulations around a handrail. The handrail belt sterilization system S comprises a detection part 29, a sterilization part 40, and a sterilization control part 45. The detection part 29 detects the number of passengers boarding the passenger conveyor per circulation of the handrail belt. The sterilization part 40 is arranged facing the handrail belt and sterilizes the handrail belt. The sterilization control part 45 estimates the sterilization rate of the handrail belt and controls the output of the sterilization part 40 based on the estimated sterilization rate. The sterilization control part 45 estimates the sterilization rate of the handrail belt based on the number of passengers per lap of the circulating handrail belt with passengers riding the passenger conveyor and on the circulating number of the handrail belt after the circulations.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] An embodiment of the present invention relates to a handrail belt sterilization system. [Background technology]

[0002] In passenger conveyors, passengers are expected to hold on to the handrail belts firmly to prevent them from falling over. However, because passenger conveyors are used by an unspecified number of people, there is a risk that bacteria or viruses may be transmitted from one passenger to another via the handrail belts. For this reason, it is desirable to disinfect or sterilize the handrail belts.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a passenger conveyor equipped with a sterilizing device that sterilizes the handrail belt. The sterilizing device in Patent Document 1 operates when the operation switch of the passenger conveyor is turned on, and sterilizes the handrail belt. On the other hand, the sterilizing device in Patent Document 1 stops when the switch of the passenger conveyor is turned off. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 9-208173 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Meanwhile, a sterilization device that sterilizes or disinfects handrail belts has a product lifespan that corresponds to the magnitude of its output. If the sterilization device is used at high output, a high sterilization effect is obtained, but the product lifespan is shortened. For example, in a sterilization device equipped with a sterilization unit that irradiates the handrail belt with ultraviolet light, if the sterilization unit is used at high output, it becomes difficult to obtain a sufficient sterilization effect if the cumulative operation time of the sterilization unit exceeds 10,000 hours. As a result, the sterilization unit needs to be replaced or repaired. Since the sterilization unit is generally expensive, it is desirable to extend the lifespan of the sterilization unit.

[0006] The present invention has been made in consideration of these points, and has an object to provide a handrail belt sterilization system that can effectively sterilize the handrail belt while extending the life of the sterilization part. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The handrail belt sterilization system according to this embodiment is as follows: A handrail belt sterilization device for a passenger conveyor having a handrail belt that runs around a handrail, A detection unit that detects the number of passengers boarding the passenger conveyor for each revolution of the handrail belt; A sterilization unit that is disposed facing the handrail belt and sterilizes the handrail belt; a sterilization control unit that estimates a sterilization rate of the handrail belt and controls an output of the sterilization unit based on the estimated sterilization rate; Equipped with The sterilization control unit estimates the sterilization rate of the handrail belt based on the number of passengers boarding the passenger conveyor during a revolution of the handrail belt and the number of revolutions of the handrail belt after that revolution. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a side view showing a schematic configuration of a passenger conveyor equipped with a handrail belt sterilization system according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the handrail belt sterilization system. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a cross section of the handrail belt and the sterilization unit shown in FIG. 1, taken along a line perpendicular to the running direction of the handrail belt. [Figure 4] 1 is a graph showing the relationship between the number of times of ultraviolet irradiation and the sterilization rate. [Diagram 5] 1 is a graph showing the relationship between the number of times of ultraviolet irradiation and the sterilization rate. [Figure 6] 1 is a graph showing the relationship between the number of times of ultraviolet irradiation and the sterilization rate. [Figure 7]FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the operation of the handrail belt sterilization system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] Hereinafter, an embodiment of a handrail belt sterilization system according to the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Fig. 1 is a side view showing a schematic configuration of a passenger conveyor 1 equipped with a handrail belt sterilization system S according to an embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the handrail belt sterilization system S. Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing a sterilization unit 40.

[0010] The passenger conveyor 1 is, for example, an escalator or a moving walkway. The passenger conveyor 1 has a longitudinal direction DL, and transports passengers along the longitudinal direction DL from a first boarding / alighting entrance 2 to a second boarding / alighting entrance 3, or from the second boarding / alighting entrance 3 to the first boarding / alighting entrance 2. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the passenger conveyor 1 is an escalator and is suspended between two different floors F1 and F2 of a building. The first boarding / alighting entrance 2 is provided on the lower floor F1. The second boarding / alighting entrance 3 is provided on the upper floor F2.

[0011] As shown in FIG. 1, the passenger conveyor 1 has a truss 4 extending along the longitudinal direction DL, a plurality of steps 5 running within the truss 4, and a pair of balustrades 20 erected on both sides of the truss 4. The truss 4 extends across a lower floor F1 and an upper floor F2. The truss 4 has an internal space 6. The truss 4 has a pair of ends 4a, 4b and an inclined portion 4c extending between the pair of ends 4a, 4b. The end 4a is disposed on the lower floor F1. The end 4b is disposed on the upper floor F2. The inclined portion 4c extends between the different floors F1, F2. Each of the ends 4a, 4b is covered with a boarding and alighting plate 7. A first boarding and alighting entrance 2 is formed above the end 4a. A second boarding and alighting entrance 3 is formed above the end 4b. A machine room 8 is formed within the end 4b. A guide rail 9 for guiding the steps 5 is arranged in the internal space 6 of the truss 4. The steps 5 are arranged in a row along the longitudinal direction DL. The steps 5 are connected in a circular shape via a step chain 10. The steps 5 run in a circular manner on the guide rail 9 formed in a circular shape. When viewed from above, the steps 5 run between and along a pair of balustrades 20. By standing on the steps 5, passengers are transported between the pair of balustrades 20 from the first boarding / alighting entrance 2 to the second boarding / alighting entrance 3, or from the second boarding / alighting entrance 3 to the first boarding / alighting entrance 2. In the illustrated example, the passengers are transported from the first boarding / alighting entrance 2 to the second boarding / alighting entrance 3.

[0012] As shown in FIG. 1, each balustrade 20 extends along the longitudinal direction DL. Each balustrade 20 has a balustrade panel 21 extending along the longitudinal direction DL, a handrail 24 attached to the balustrade panel 21, and a skirt guard 25 provided at the lower part of the balustrade 20. The truss 4 is located below the skirt guard 25. The handrail 24 guides a circular handrail belt 30. The handrail 24 extends along the edge 22 of the balustrade panel 21 (more specifically, the side edges 22a, 22b and the upper edge 22c). Guided by the handrail 24, the handrail belt 30 runs around the edge 22 of the balustrade panel 21. In other words, the handrail belt 30 runs on a circular track 38 around the edge 22 of the balustrade panel 21.

[0013] The skirt guard 25 extends along the longitudinal direction DL. The skirt guard 25 has an internal space 26. The internal space 26 of the skirt guard 25 is connected to the internal space 6 of the truss 4. A first opening 27 is formed at the end of the skirt guard 25 on the first boarding / alighting entrance 2 side. A second opening 28 is formed at the end of the skirt guard 25 on the second boarding / alighting entrance 3 side. After moving along the handrail 24, the handrail belt 30 enters the internal spaces 26, 6 of the skirt guard 25 and the truss 4 through the first opening 27 or the second opening 28. After that, the handrail belt 30 exits from the internal spaces 6, 26 of the truss 4 and the skirt guard 25 through the second opening 28 or the first opening 27, and moves along the handrail 24 again.

[0014] The steps 5 and the handrail belt 30 are driven by the motor 11, the control panel 12, the sprockets 13 to 15, etc., which are installed in the machine room 8. The motor 11 drives the step chain 10. The control panel 12 has an operation control unit 12a that controls the operation of the passenger conveyor 1. The operation control unit 12a controls the driving of the motor 11, for example. The step chain 10 is stretched between the first and second sprockets 13 and 14. When the motor 11 drives the step chain 10, the first and second sprockets 13 and 14 rotate. The handrail belt 30 is stretched between the third sprocket 15. The third sprocket 15 is connected to the first sprocket 13 by a transmission chain (not shown), and rotates according to the rotation of the first sprocket 13. Therefore, the handrail belt 30 runs in synchronization with the steps 5. In the illustrated example, the steps 5 and the handrail belt 30 run at 30 m / min. In addition, in the illustrated example, the steps 5 and the handrail belt 30 complete one revolution around the edge 22 of the balustrade panel 21 in 50 seconds. In other words, in the illustrated example, the revolution speed of the steps 5 and the handrail belt 30 is 50 seconds / revolution.

[0015] The handrail belt 30 is made up of a plurality of belt elements 31 arranged in the running direction of the handrail belt 30. The total number m of belt elements 31 may be an integer multiple of the number of steps 5. In the illustrated example, the number of steps 5 is 50, and the total number m of belt elements 31 is 250. The lengths of the plurality of belt elements 31 are equal to each other. In the illustrated example, the length of the handrail belt 30 is 25 m, and the length of each belt element 31 is 0.1 m.

[0016] In the illustrated example, the passenger conveyor 1 further includes a detection unit 29 that detects the number of passengers who board the passenger conveyor 1 for each revolution of the steps 5 and the handrail belt 30. Here, the number of passengers who board the passenger conveyor 1 refers to the number of passengers who board the passenger conveyor 1. The detection unit 29 detects the number of passengers who board the passenger conveyor 1 while the steps 5 and the handrail belt 30 make one revolution. The detection unit 29 is not particularly limited as long as it is a device that can detect the number of passengers who board the passenger conveyor 1. The detection unit 29 may be, for example, a photoelectric sensor, an infrared sensor, or a microwave sensor that detects the number of passengers who board the steps 5 and the handrail belt 30 for each revolution. The detection unit 29 may also include a camera, and may detect the number of passengers who board the steps 5 and the handrail belt 30 for each revolution based on an image captured by the camera. The detection unit 29 may include a measuring device that measures the load current value of the motor 11, and may detect the number of people who board the steps 5 and the handrail belt 30 for each revolution based on the load current value measured by the measuring device. In the example shown in FIG. 2, the detection unit 29 includes an infrared sensor 29a and a measuring unit 29b. The infrared sensor 29a is provided at the end of the skirt guard 25 on the first boarding / alighting door 2 side. When the light emitted by the infrared sensor 29a is blocked by a passenger who boards the passenger conveyor 1 from the first boarding / alighting door 2, the infrared sensor 29a sends a signal to the measuring unit 29b. The measuring unit 29b measures the number of people who board the steps 5 and the handrail belt 30 for each revolution based on the signal received from the infrared sensor 29a. The detection unit 29 inputs information related to the measured number of people to a sterilization control unit 45 described later.

[0017] In the illustrated example, the passenger conveyor 1 further includes a sterilization unit 40 that sterilizes the handrail belt 30, and a sterilization control unit 45 that controls the sterilization unit 40.

[0018] The sterilization unit 40 is disposed in the inner space 26 or 6 of the skirt guard 25 or the truss 4 so as to face a part of the track 38 of the handrail belt 30. The part of the track 38 that the sterilization unit 40 faces is hereinafter also referred to as the "sterilization area 39."

[0019] In the example shown in FIG. 3, the sterilization unit 40 sterilizes the surface of the handrail belt 30 by irradiating the surface of the handrail belt 30 with ultraviolet light. The sterilization unit 40 has an LED module M. When the sterilization unit 40 is activated, ultraviolet light is emitted from the LED module M. The sterilization unit 40 may have multiple LED modules M1 to M3. The multiple LED modules M1 to M3 may be arranged so as to surround the handrail belt 30. Note that by arranging the sterilization unit 40 in the skirt guard 25 or the internal space 26 or 6 of the truss 4, the ultraviolet light emitted from the LED module M is prevented from entering the eyes of the user.

[0020] In the illustrated example, the length of the sterilization area 39 of the sterilization section 40 is 0.2 m, and each belt element 31 of the handrail belt 30 traveling at 30 m / min is irradiated for 0.4 seconds.

[0021] The sterilization control unit 45 receives input from the detection unit 29 and controls the sterilization unit 40. The sterilization control unit 45 estimates the sterilization rate of the entire handrail belt 30 (hereinafter also simply referred to as the "sterilization rate of the handrail belt 30") based on each input from the detection unit 29, and controls the sterilization unit 40 based on the estimated sterilization rate. The sterilization control unit 45 controls the sterilization unit 40 so that if the sterilization rate of the handrail belt 30 is high, the output of the sterilization unit 40 is low, and if the sterilization rate of the handrail belt 30 is low, the output of the sterilization unit 40 is high. This makes it possible to effectively sterilize the handrail belt 30 while extending the life of the sterilization unit 40. In the illustrated example, the sterilization control unit 45 controls the sterilization unit 40 so that the ultraviolet illuminance of the sterilization unit 40 becomes low illuminance when the sterilization rate of the handrail belt 30 is equal to or greater than a first value, the ultraviolet illuminance of the sterilization unit 40 becomes medium illuminance when the sterilization rate of the handrail belt 30 is less than the first value and equal to or greater than a second value, and the ultraviolet illuminance of the sterilization unit 40 becomes high illuminance when the sterilization rate of the handrail belt 30 is less than the second value. The ultraviolet illuminance of the sterilization unit 40 may be adjusted by adjusting the number of LED modules M to be turned on, or by adjusting the ultraviolet illuminance of the LED module M. In the illustrated example, the sterilization unit 40 is operated in any one of a high output mode in which all the LED modules M1 to M3 output ultraviolet rays at maximum output, a medium output mode in which the LED modules M1 to M3 output ultraviolet rays at 75% of the output of the high output mode, and a low output mode in which the LED modules M1 to M3 output ultraviolet rays at 50% of the output of the high output mode.

[0022] In this specification, the term "sterilization rate" refers to the proportion of inactivated E. coli assumed to be attached to the handrail belt 30 or belt element 31. For example, if it is considered that 99% of the E. coli assumed to be attached to the handrail belt 30 or belt element 31 is inactivated, the sterilization rate of the handrail belt 30 or belt element 31 is considered to be 99%.

[0023] The sterilization control unit 45 estimates the sterilization rate of the handrail belt 30 based on the number of passengers who boarded the passenger conveyor 1 during a revolution of the handrail belt 30 and the number of revolutions of the handrail belt 30 after that revolution. This allows the sterilization control unit 45 to estimate the sterilization rate of the handrail belt 30 with high reliability.

[0024] More specifically, the sterilization control unit 45 determines an initial value of the sterilization rate of the belt element 31 and a lower limit value lower than the initial value. Then, when a passenger gets on the passenger conveyor 1, the estimation unit 46 assigns one of the plurality of belt elements 31 to each passenger who gets on the passenger conveyor 1, and estimates that the sterilization rate of the belt element 31 assigned to the passenger recovers from the lower limit value according to the number of times the belt element 31 passes through the sterilization area 39 after the passenger gets on the passenger conveyor 1 (i.e., according to the number of revolutions of the handrail belt 30 after the passenger gets on the passenger conveyor 1). The initial value of the sterilization rate of the belt element 31 may be 100%, 99.9%, or another value. The lower limit value of the sterilization rate of the belt element 31 may be 0%, 0.1%, or another value.

[0025] In addition, the sterilization control unit 45 estimates that the sterilization rate of the belt elements 31 not assigned to passengers, and the sterilization rate of the belt elements 31 not assigned to passengers after the sterilization rate has recovered to the above-mentioned initial value, will be maintained at the above-mentioned initial value.

[0026] Then, the sterilization control unit 45 calculates an average value of the sterilization rates of the belt elements 31 estimated in this manner, and estimates the calculated average value as the sterilization rate of the handrail belt 30.

[0027] For example, the first revolution of the handrail belt 30 is defined as the period from when the passenger conveyor 1 begins to be put into service (in other words, from when passengers begin to use the passenger conveyor 1) until the handrail belt 30 makes one revolution. Also, the initial value of the sterilization rate of the belt element 31 (i.e., the sterilization rate immediately before the handrail belt 30 begins its first revolution) is R0%, and the above-mentioned lower limit value is R0-α%. R0 and α are both positive constants. Also, when the belt element 31 is assigned to a passenger, it is considered to have come into contact with the passenger, and the sterilization rate of the belt element 31 is assumed to decrease to the above-mentioned lower limit value R0-α%. In addition, the sterilization rate of the belt element 31, whose sterilization rate has fallen to R0-α%, recovers to R0-α+B1% when it passes through the sterilization area 39 once (i.e., when the handrail belt 30 makes one revolution), recovers to R0-α+B1+B2% when it passes through the sterilization area 39 twice (i.e., when the handrail belt 30 makes two revolutions), and recovers to R0-α+B1+B2+···+B2% when it passes through the sterilization area 39 n times (i.e., when the handrail belt 30 makes n revolutions). n % recovery. Here, α is a positive constant. Also, B k (k is an integer equal to or greater than 1) is the recovery value of the sterilization rate of the belt element 31 assigned to a passenger when the belt element 31 passes through the sterilization area 39 for the kth time after being assigned to the passenger.

[0028] B k is β k and γ i (i is an integer equal to or greater than 1). k is the recovery value of the sterilization rate of the belt element 31 assigned to the passenger when the belt element 31 passes through the sterilization unit 40 operating in the high output mode for the kth time after being assigned to the passenger. β k is estimated according to, for example, any one of the following equations (6) to (8). i is a positive constant equal to or smaller than 1 that corresponds to the output of the sterilization unit 40. i is a numerical value corresponding to the output of the sterilization unit 40 in the i-th rotation of the handrail belt 30. In the illustrated example, γ corresponds to the sterilization unit 40 being operated in any of the high output mode, the medium output mode, and the low output mode described above. i can be either 1, 0.75 or 0.5.

[0029] It is assumed that the sterilization rate of the belt element 31 decreases to the lower limit value R0-α% every time the belt element 31 is assigned to a passenger. It is also assumed that the sterilization rate of the belt element 31 not assigned to a passenger and the sterilization rate of the belt element 31 not assigned to a passenger after the sterilization rate has recovered to the initial value R0 are maintained at the initial value R0.

[0030] Under these conditions, it is assumed that P1 passengers board the passenger conveyor 1 during the first revolution of the handrail belt 30. In this case, the sterilization control unit 45 assigns P1 belt elements 31(1) to 31(P1) to the passengers, and estimates the sterilization rate R1 at the time when the handrail belt 30 has made one revolution since the passenger conveyor 1 began service, as follows: R1={(R0-α+B1)×P1+R0×(m-P1)} / m Here, as described above, m is the total number of belt elements 31. In the illustrated example, γ1 is a value corresponding to the low output mode. This is because the sterilization rate of the handrail belt 30 at the start of service of the passenger conveyor 1 is the highest value (initial value R0%), and there is no need to operate the sterilization unit 40 in the high output mode or the medium output mode. In the illustrated example, γ1 is 0.5.

[0031] Also, assume that P2 passengers board the passenger conveyor 1 during the second revolution of the handrail belt 30. In this case, the sterilization control unit 45 assigns P2 belt elements 31 to the passengers. At this time, the sterilization control unit 45 assigns belt elements 31 to these P2 passengers that are different from the belt elements 31 assigned to the passengers who boarded the passenger conveyor 1 during the first revolution of the handrail belt 30. Then, the sterilization control unit 45 estimates the sterilization rate R2 at the point when the handrail belt 30 has made two revolutions since the passenger conveyor 1 began service, as follows: R2={(R0-α+B1+B2)×P1+(R0-α+B1)×P2+R0×(m-P1-P2)} / m

[0032] In this manner, the sterilization rates R1, R2, R3, ... are calculated in sequence. If the number of passengers who board the passenger conveyor 1 exceeds the total number m of belt elements 31 after the passenger conveyor 1 starts operation, passengers are reassigned to belt elements 31 to which passengers have already been assigned. At this time, passengers are assigned to the belt element 31 to which passengers have been assigned the least number of times.

[0033] In this way, the sterilization rate R n If we estimate the eradication rate R n The estimated values ​​of are expressed by the following equations (1) and (2).

number

[0034] Next, a method for estimating the sterilization rate of the belt element 31 assigned to the passenger in the illustrated example, more specifically, β k The calculation method of will be described more specifically.

[0035] First, according to the findings of the present inventors, when a sample piece having E. coli attached thereto is irradiated with ultraviolet light at a constant illuminance for a predetermined period of time multiple times, the sterilization rate y (i.e., the inactivation rate of E. coli) (%) of the sample piece recovers as the number of times of ultraviolet light irradiation (irradiation time) increases, as shown in Figures 4 to 6. What is common to the graphs shown in Figures 4 to 6 is that the recovery rate of the sterilization rate becomes slower as the number of times of ultraviolet light irradiation (irradiation time) increases.

[0036] 4 to 6 are respectively expressed by the following formulas (3) to (5). In formulas (3) to (5), the initial value of the sterilization rate of the sample piece is set to 0%. In formulas (3) to (5), x is the number of times the sample piece is irradiated with ultraviolet light. In formulas (4) and (5), b and c are positive constants.

number

number

number

[0037] In the illustrated example, the sterilization control unit 45 estimates the sterilization rate of the belt element 31 based on the above formula (3) as follows. First, when a passenger gets on the passenger conveyor 1, the sterilization control unit 45 assigns one of the multiple belt elements 31 to each passenger who gets on the passenger conveyor 1, and estimates the sterilization rate r(k) (%) of the belt element 31 assigned to the passenger according to the following formula (6). Here, the sterilization rate r(k) (%) is the sterilization rate of the belt element 31 when the belt element 31 passes through the sterilization area 39 for the kth time after the passenger is assigned to the belt element 31. The sterilization control unit 45 may estimate the sterilization rate r(k) (%) of the belt element 31 based on the above formula (4) according to the following formula (7). The sterilization control unit 45 may also estimate the sterilization rate r(k) (%) of the belt element 31 based on the above formula (5) according to the following formula (8). In addition, in the formulas (6) to (8), A, b, and c are positive constants.

number

number

number

[0038] Based on the thus obtained sterilization rate r(k) (%) of the belt element 31, β k is calculated based on the following formula (9).

number

[0039] In the illustrated example, a handrail belt sterilization system S is configured by at least the detection unit 29, the sterilization unit 40, and the sterilization control unit 45.

[0040] Next, the operation of the passenger conveyor 1 will be described with reference to FIG. 7. First, when the sterilization control unit 45 detects that the operation of the passenger conveyor 1 has been started by an input from the operation control unit 12a to the sterilization control unit 45 (step S1), the sterilization control unit 45 activates the timer 49 and causes the timer 49 to start timing. The sterilization control unit 45 also activates the sterilization unit 40 to start sterilization of the handrail belt 30 (step S2). At this time, the sterilization control unit 45 operates the sterilization unit 40 in high output mode. Note that in step S2, passengers have not yet started using the passenger conveyor 1 (i.e., the passenger conveyor 1 is put into service). Hereinafter, the period from when the passenger conveyor 1 starts operating until when the passenger conveyor 1 starts being put into service is also referred to as the "pre-service period". The period from when the passenger conveyor 1 starts being put into service until when the passenger conveyor 1 stops being operated is also referred to as the "service period".

[0041] Next, the sterilization control unit 45 judges whether the timer 49 has timed a predetermined time length (for example, a time length sufficient for the handrail belt 30 to rotate 50 times) (step S3). If it is judged in step S2 that the timer 49 has not yet timed the above-mentioned predetermined time length (NO), the sterilization control unit 45 judges that the sterilization rates of the handrail belt 30 and each belt element 31 have not reached their initial values ​​(for example, 99.9%) and performs the judgment of step S2 again. On the other hand, if it is judged in step S2 that the timer 49 has timed the above-mentioned predetermined time length (YES), the sterilization control unit 45 assumes that the sterilization rates of the handrail belt 30 and each belt element 31 have reached their initial values, and switches the sterilization unit 40 from the high output mode to the low output mode (step S4). Specifically, the ultraviolet illuminance of the LED module M is reduced. At the same time that the timer 49 times the above-mentioned predetermined time length, the pre-service period ends and the service period begins.

[0042] When the service period starts, the detection unit 29 detects the number of passengers boarding the passenger conveyor 1 for each revolution of the handrail belt 30. The detection unit 29 passes information on the detected number of passengers to the sterilization control unit 45. The sterilization control unit 45 also starts estimating the sterilization rate of the handrail belt 30 and each belt element 31. Specifically, it receives information on the number of passengers boarding for each revolution of the handrail belt 30 from the detection unit 29, estimates the sterilization rate of the belt element 31 for each revolution of the handrail belt 30 based on this, and estimates the sterilization rate of the handrail belt 30 based on the estimated sterilization rate of the belt element 31. Then, it is determined whether the estimated sterilization rate of the handrail belt 30 is equal to or greater than a predetermined first value (step S5).

[0043] If the sterilization rate of the handrail belt 30 estimated in step S5 is equal to or greater than the first value (YES), the sterilization control unit 45 maintains or changes the sterilization unit 40 to the low output mode (step S6).

[0044] If the sterilization rate of the handrail belt 30 estimated in step S5 is less than the first value (NO), it is determined whether the sterilization rate of the handrail belt 30 estimated in step S5 is equal to or greater than a predetermined second value (step S7). If the sterilization rate of the handrail belt 30 estimated in step S7 is equal to or greater than the second value (YES), the sterilization control unit 45 maintains or changes the sterilization unit 40 to the medium output mode (step S8).

[0045] If the sterilization rate of the handrail belt 30 estimated in step S7 is less than the second value (NO), the sterilization control unit 45 changes the sterilization unit 40 to or maintains the high output mode (step S9).

[0046] After step S6, step S8 or step S9, the sterilization control unit 45 judges whether the operation of the passenger conveyor 1 has been stopped (step S10). Specifically, it judges whether there has been an input from the operation control unit 12a to the sterilization control unit 45 indicating that the operation of the passenger conveyor 1 has been stopped. When it is judged in step S10 that the operation of the passenger conveyor 1 has not been stopped (NO), the sterilization control unit 45 again makes the judgment of step S5. On the other hand, when it is judged in step S8 that the operation of the passenger conveyor 1 has been stopped (YES), the sterilization control unit 45 stops the sterilization unit 40. In other words, the sterilization control unit 45 makes the output from the sterilization unit 40 zero. In further words, the sterilization control unit 45 turns off the sterilization unit 40. In addition, the sterilization control unit 45 stops estimating the sterilization rate and returns the sterilization rates of the handrail belt 30 and each belt element 31 to the initial value (step S11).

[0047] In the embodiment described above, the sterilization rate r(k) (%) of the belt element 31 is estimated according to any one of the above formulas (6) to (8), but is not limited thereto. The sterilization rate r(k) (%) of the belt element 31 may be estimated based on a formula that represents a graph having a shape similar to that of the graphs shown in Figs. 4 to 6.

[0048] In the embodiment described above, the sterilization unit 40 sterilizes the handrail belt 30 by irradiating the surface of the handrail belt 30 with ultraviolet light, but this is not limited to the above. The sterilization unit 40 may sterilize the handrail belt 30 by applying a sterilizing liquid to the handrail belt 30. In this case, the sterilization control unit 45 may control the amount of sterilizing liquid applied to the handrail belt 30 by the sterilization unit 40. In this case, the sterilization rate R of the handrail belt 30 is calculated according to any one of the above formulas (1) and (2) and (6) to (8). n It is possible to estimate the amount of bacteria that can be detected by the disinfectant. The method of applying the disinfectant to the handrail belt 30 may be any method. For example, the disinfectant may be applied to the handrail belt 30 by spraying the disinfectant onto the handrail belt 30 using a sprayer. The disinfectant may be, for example, hypochlorous acid water, stabilized chlorine dioxide, grapefruit seed extract, or the like.

[0049] In the embodiment described above, the handrail belt sterilization system S is a handrail belt sterilization system S for a passenger conveyor 1 equipped with a handrail belt 30 that runs around the balustrade 20, and includes a detection unit 29, a sterilization unit 40, and a sterilization control unit 45. The detection unit 29 detects the number of passengers who board the passenger conveyor 1 for each revolution of the handrail belt 30. The sterilization unit 40 is disposed facing the handrail belt 30 and sterilizes the handrail belt 30. The sterilization control unit 45 estimates the sterilization rate of the handrail belt 30 and controls the output of the sterilization unit 40 based on the estimated sterilization rate. The sterilization control unit 45 estimates the sterilization rate of the handrail belt 30 based on the number of passengers who boarded the passenger conveyor 1 during the revolution of the handrail belt 30 and the number of revolutions of the handrail belt 30 after the revolution. According to such a handrail belt sterilization system S, it is possible to reliably estimate the sterilization rate of the handrail belt 30. If the sterilization rate of the handrail belt 30 is high, the output of the sterilization unit 40 can be suppressed. Therefore, it is possible to effectively sterilize the handrail belt 30 while extending the life of the sterilization unit 40.

[0050] In the embodiment described above, the handrail belt 30 includes a plurality of belt elements 31 arranged in the running direction of the handrail belt 30. The track 38 of the handrail belt 30 includes a sterilization area 39 that faces the sterilization unit 40. In the handrail belt sterilization system S, an initial value of the sterilization rate of the belt element 31 and a lower limit value lower than the initial value are determined. When a passenger boards the passenger conveyor 1, the sterilization control unit 45 assigns one of the plurality of belt elements 31 to each passenger who boards the passenger conveyor 1, and estimates that the sterilization rate of the belt element 31 assigned to the passenger is restored from the lower limit value according to the number of times the belt element 31 passes through the sterilization area 39 after the passenger boards the passenger conveyor 1. Then, the sterilization control unit 45 estimates the sterilization rate of the handrail belt 30 based on the estimated sterilization rate of the belt element 31.

[0051] Furthermore, in the embodiment described above, the sterilization control unit 45 estimates the sterilization rate of the handrail belt 30, assuming that the sterilization rate of the belt elements 31 not assigned to passengers, and the sterilization rate of the belt elements 31 not assigned to passengers after the sterilization rate has recovered to the above-mentioned initial value, will be maintained at the above-mentioned initial value.

[0052] In the embodiment described above, the sterilization unit 40 irradiates ultraviolet light onto the handrail belt 30. The sterilization control unit 45 controls the ultraviolet light illuminance of the sterilization unit 40.

[0053] In a modification of the embodiment described above, the sterilization unit 40 applies sterilization liquid to the handrail belt 30. The sterilization control unit 45 controls the amount of sterilization liquid applied to the handrail belt 30 by the sterilization unit 40.

[0054] In the embodiment described above, the sterilization control unit 45 estimates the sterilization rate Rn of the handrail belt 30 according to the above formula (1) or (2), where k is the number of times that the belt element 31 assigned to the passenger passes through the sterilization area 39 after the passenger gets on the passenger conveyor 1. This makes it possible to estimate the sterilization rate Rn of the handrail belt 30 with high reliability.

[0055] Furthermore, in the embodiment described above, the sterilization control unit 45 controls the sterilization unit 40 so that when the sterilization rate of the handrail belt 30 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, the output of the sterilization unit 40 is lower than when the sterilization rate of the handrail belt 30 is less than the above-mentioned predetermined value.

[0056] Although the embodiments and some modifications of the present invention have been described, these embodiments and modifications are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These new embodiments and modifications can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the gist of the invention. These embodiments and modifications are included in the scope and gist of the invention, and are included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents described in the claims. In addition, it is of course possible to combine these embodiments and modifications in part as appropriate within the gist of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0057] 1: passenger conveyor, 2: first boarding / alighting entrance, 3: second boarding / alighting entrance, 4: truss, 4a, 4b: end of truss, 4c: inclined portion of truss, 5: step, 6: internal space of truss, 7: boarding / alighting board, 8: machine room, 9: guide rail, 10: step chain, 11: motor, 12: control panel, 12a: operation control unit, 13: first sprocket, 14: second sprocket, 15: third sprocket, 20: balustrade, 21: balustrade panel, 22: edge, 24: handrail, 25: skirt guard, 26: internal space of skirt guard, 27: first opening, 28: second opening, 29: detection unit, 30: handrail belt, 31: belt element, 38: track, 39: sterilization area, 40: sterilization unit, 45: sterilization control unit, 49: timer, S: handrail belt sterilization system

Claims

1. A handrail belt sterilization system for a passenger conveyor having a handrail belt that runs around a handrail, A detection unit that detects the number of passengers boarding the passenger conveyor for each revolution of the handrail belt; A sterilization unit that is disposed facing the handrail belt and sterilizes the handrail belt; a sterilization control unit that estimates a sterilization rate of the handrail belt and controls an output of the sterilization unit based on the estimated sterilization rate; Equipped with The sterilization control unit estimates a sterilization rate of the handrail belt based on the number of passengers boarding the passenger conveyor during a revolution of the handrail belt and the number of revolutions of the handrail belt after that revolution.

2. The handrail belt includes a plurality of belt elements arranged in a running direction of the handrail belt, The handrail belt track includes a sterilization area that faces the sterilization unit, An initial value of the sterilization rate of the belt element and a lower limit value lower than the initial value are defined, The handrail belt sterilization system according to claim 1, wherein the sterilization control unit, when a passenger boards the passenger conveyor, assigns one of the plurality of belt elements to each passenger who has boarded the passenger conveyor, estimates that the sterilization rate of the belt element assigned to the passenger will recover from the lower limit value in accordance with the number of times that the belt element has passed through the sterilization area after the passenger boarded the passenger conveyor, and estimates the sterilization rate of the handrail belt based on the estimated sterilization rate of the belt element.

3. The handrail belt sterilization system according to claim 2, wherein the sterilization control unit estimates the sterilization rate of the handrail belt by estimating that the sterilization rate of belt elements not assigned to passengers and the sterilization rate of belt elements not assigned to passengers after the sterilization rate has recovered to the initial value are maintained at the initial value.

4. The sterilization unit irradiates the handrail belt with ultraviolet light, The handrail belt sterilization system according to claim 1 , wherein the sterilization control unit controls an ultraviolet illuminance of the sterilization unit.

5. The sterilization unit applies a sterilization liquid to the handrail belt, The handrail belt sterilization system according to claim 1 , wherein the sterilization control unit controls an application amount of sterilizing liquid to the handrail belt by the sterilization unit.

6. The handrail belt sterilization system according to claim 1, wherein the sterilization control unit controls the sterilization unit so that an output of the sterilization unit is lower when the sterilization rate of the handrail belt is equal to or higher than a predetermined value than when the sterilization rate of the handrail belt is less than the predetermined value.

7. The handrail belt sterilization system according to claim 2, wherein the sterilization control unit estimates the sterilization rate Rn of the handrail belt according to the following formula (1) or (2), where k is the number of times that a belt element assigned to a passenger has passed through the sterilization area after the passenger has boarded the passenger conveyor. [0010] Here, in the above formulas (1) and (2), m is the total number of said belt elements; q is a natural number not including 0, R ０ is a positive constant, α is a positive constant, P ｋ and P ｎ－ｊ＋１ are the number of passengers who boarded the passenger conveyor on the kth rotation and the n-j+1th rotation of the handrail belt, respectively, counting from the start of service of the passenger conveyor, B ｋ is the recovery value of the sterilization rate of the belt element assigned to the passenger when it passes through the sterilization area for the kth time after being assigned to the passenger.

8. The handrail belt sterilization system according to claim 1 , wherein the detection unit includes a photoelectric sensor, an infrared sensor, a microwave sensor, or a camera.

9. The handrail belt sterilization system according to claim 1 , wherein the detection unit includes a measuring device that measures a load current value of a motor that drives steps that rotate in synchronization with the handrail belt.

10. The handrail belt sterilization system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the passenger conveyor is an escalator or a moving walkway.

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