Object detection device

Abstract

To provide an object detection device which allows the light for detection to pass through well for good object detection operation in the installed state, while avoiding burnout of the optical element due to sunlight during transportation and installation work, etc.SOLUTION: An object detection device that optically detects objects comprises an optical element 13, a light collecting member 12 provided for the optical element 13, and a state-changing mechanism JH capable of changing the state of the space between the optical element 13 and the light collecting member 12 to an open state in which the space is optically opened and a light-reducing state in which the space is optically blocked.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an object detection device that optically detects an object. [Background technology]

[0002] As the above-mentioned object detection device, for example, there is one used in a security sensor in which a receiver receives infrared rays (infrared light) projected from a projector, outputs a detection signal, and detects an object, a human, etc. by blocking the light. In this type of object detection device, there is one in which each of the projector and receiver is provided with an optical element such as a light-emitting element and a light-receiving element, and a condensing lens as a light-collecting member provided for the optical element. In the projector, the light emitted from the light-emitting element is collected by the condensing lens and projected toward the receiver. In the receiver, the incident light is collected by the condensing lens and received by the light-receiving element. Therefore, the portion through which the projected light and the incident light pass is formed as a light-transmitting portion through which the light can pass (for example, see Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2013-156880 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] After being transported, the object detection device is fixed and installed in a predetermined position in a vertical orientation with the long side in the up-down direction. In the installed state, the detection light, such as the projected light and the incident light, is directed horizontally through the light-transmitting portion. However, the object detection device may be transported or installed outdoors, and during the transport or installation, the object detection device may be placed on the platform of a transport vehicle or on the ground in a horizontal orientation.

[0005] If the object detection device is in a landscape orientation in this way, sunlight may enter the light collecting member or the optical element through the light transmitting portion, and the sunlight may be collected by the light collecting member and then irradiate the optical element, which may be burned out by the strong light.

[0006] The object of the present invention is to provide an object detection device which allows detection light to pass through smoothly when installed, enabling smooth object detection operation, while preventing the optical elements from being burned by sunlight during transportation, installation, etc. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A characteristic configuration of the object detection device of the present invention is that it is an object detection device that optically detects an object, and is equipped with an optical element, a focusing member provided for the optical element, and a state-change mechanism that can change the state between an open state in which the space between the optical element and the focusing member is optically opened, and a dimming state in which the space is optically blocked.

[0008] According to the present invention, when the device is installed to perform a detection operation, the state-changing mechanism is changed to the open state, so that the space between the optical element and the condensing member is optically opened, so that the light projected by the optical element can reach the detection target location satisfactorily via the condensing member, and the incident light can be received satisfactorily by the optical element via the condensing member. In addition, by changing the state-changing mechanism to the dimming state, it is possible to prevent a large amount of sunlight from entering the optical element.

[0009] The dimming state here refers to a state in which the amount of light passing through the space between the optical element and the light collecting member from the outside is reduced through the light collecting member, to a degree that the optical element will not be burned even if sunlight is incident. The dimming rate does not only refer to a simple reduction in the amount of light, but also includes a dimming rate of 100%.

[0010] Therefore, it has become possible to provide an object detection device that, when installed, allows projected light and incident light to pass through smoothly, enabling smooth object detection operation, while preventing the optical elements from being burned by sunlight during transportation, installation, etc.

[0011] In the present invention, it is preferable that the state changing mechanism is an aperture mechanism capable of changing and adjusting an opening area through which light passes.

[0012] According to this configuration, in the installed state, the aperture area of ​​the diaphragm mechanism is increased, so that the projected light and the incident light can pass through smoothly. On the other hand, when there is a risk of sunlight entering, the aperture area of ​​the diaphragm mechanism is reduced, so that the effect of sunlight can be reduced and burning of the optical elements can be avoided.

[0013] When a light receiving element is used as the optical element in the installed state, the amount of incident light can be adjusted by changing the aperture area, which has the advantage of enabling sensitivity adjustment, etc. When a light emitting element is used as the optical element, the spread angle of light can be limited by changing the aperture area, which has the advantage of reducing the area where light is blurred outside the light beam, thereby reducing false detections, etc.

[0014] In the present invention, it is preferable that the state-changing mechanism be a shutter mechanism that can be switched between the open state, which allows light to pass through the optical path, and the dimmed state, which prevents light from passing through the optical path.

[0015] According to this configuration, in the installed state, the shutter mechanism can be switched to an open state to allow the projected light and the incident light to pass through smoothly. On the other hand, when there is a risk of sunlight entering, the shutter mechanism can be switched to a dimming state to reduce the amount of sunlight entering, thereby preventing the optical elements from burning out.

[0016] The shutter mechanism switches between two states, an open state and a dimmed state, and therefore has a simple structure and a simple switching operation.

[0017] In the present invention, it is preferable that the state-changing mechanism is located between the optical element and the light-collecting member in the dimming state.

[0018] According to this configuration, the state change mechanism blocks a narrow area of ​​the light beam focused by the light focusing member, so that a compact shape can be used, resulting in a simple structure.

[0019] In the present invention, it is preferable that the state-changing mechanism covers the light-collecting member from the outside when in the dimming state.

[0020] If the state-changing mechanism is located between the optical element and the light-collecting member, there is a risk that the relative positional relationship between the light-collecting member and the optical element cannot be maintained. In contrast, according to the present configuration, the state-changing mechanism is configured to cover the light-collecting member from the outside, so that the light-collecting member and the optical element can be supported integrally, which has the advantage that the relative positional relationship between them can be easily maintained.

[0021] In the present invention, an optical unit having the focusing member, the optical element, and an optical support body that supports them integrally is provided, and a housing portion that covers the outer periphery of the optical unit and has an opening formed in part of the circumferential direction, and it is preferable that the state-change mechanism supports the optical unit so that its posture can be changed relative to the housing portion between a position where the focusing member corresponds to the opening and a position where the focusing member is out of the position corresponding to the opening.

[0022] According to this configuration, by changing the position of the optical unit relative to the housing portion, the position of the focusing member can be changed between a position corresponding to the opening (hereinafter referred to as the corresponding position) and a position away from the position corresponding to the opening (hereinafter referred to as the off-position).

[0023] When the optical unit is in the corresponding position, the light projected by the optical element and the light incident on the optical element pass through the opening smoothly, whereas when the optical unit is in the out-of-position, the light attempting to enter the optical element is prevented from entering through the opening.

[0024] As a result, the optical support can maintain the relative positional relationship between the focusing member and the optical element, while allowing for smooth switching between an open state in which the space between the optical element and the focusing member is optically opened, and a dimming state in which the space is optically blocked.

[0025] In the present invention, an optical unit having the focusing member, the optical element, and an optical support body that supports them integrally is provided, and a housing portion that covers the outer periphery of the optical unit and has an opening formed in part of the circumferential direction, and it is preferable that the state-change mechanism supports the housing portion so that its posture can be changed relative to the optical unit between a position where the opening corresponds to the focusing member and a position away from the position where the opening corresponds to the focusing member.

[0026] According to this configuration, by changing the position of the housing portion relative to the optical unit, the position of the opening can be changed between a position corresponding to the focusing member (hereinafter referred to as the corresponding position) and a position away from the position corresponding to the focusing member (hereinafter referred to as the off-position).

[0027] When the housing part is in the corresponding position, the light projected by the optical element and the light incident on the optical element pass through the opening smoothly, whereas when the housing part is in the out of position, the light attempting to be incident on the optical element is prevented from entering through the opening.

[0028] As a result, the optical support can maintain the relative positional relationship between the focusing member and the optical element, while allowing for smooth switching between an open state in which the space between the optical element and the focusing member is optically opened, and a dimming state in which the space is optically blocked.

[0029] In the present invention, it is preferable that a manual operation unit be provided that can manually switch the state-changing mechanism between the open state and the dimming state.

[0030] According to this configuration, the state change mechanism can be arbitrarily switched to a state suitable for the current usage situation by manually operating the manual operation unit according to the usage situation. If an aperture mechanism is used as the state change mechanism, the light receiving sensitivity can be changed and adjusted by manually changing and adjusting the aperture area. If a light emitting element is used as the optical element, there is an advantage that only the area where the light is blurred can be removed from the outer part of the light beam by manually changing and adjusting the aperture area.

[0031] In the present invention, it is preferable that an actuator capable of switching the state-changing mechanism between the open state and the dimming state is provided.

[0032] According to this configuration, the state-changing mechanism can be switched using an actuator, so that the operation is easy and does not involve the hassle of manual switching.

[0033] In the present invention, a power supply state discrimination unit that discriminates the state of electricity flowing to the optical element and a control unit that controls the operation of the actuator are provided, and it is preferable that the control unit controls the operation of the actuator so that the state-change mechanism is switched to the open state when the power supply state discrimination unit determines that electricity is flowing to the optical element, and so that the state-change mechanism is switched to the dimming state when the power supply state discrimination unit determines that electricity is not flowing to the optical element.

[0034] According to this configuration, when the optical element is placed at a detection target location and starts to be energized to perform a detection operation, the power supply state determination unit determines this, and the control unit automatically switches the state change mechanism to the open state. Then, for example, when the optical element is being transported or installed, the power supply to the optical element is stopped. Then, the power supply state determination unit determines that the optical element is not energized, and the control unit automatically switches the state change mechanism to the dimming state.

[0035] As a result, when a detection operation is performed, the state-changing mechanism always automatically switches to the open state, and when transportation or installation work is being carried out, the state-changing mechanism always automatically switches to the dimming state, thereby appropriately avoiding malfunctions due to forgetting to operate the device or damage to the optical elements.

[0036] In the present invention, there is provided a housing portion that accommodates the focusing member and the optical element, a state detection portion that detects whether the housing portion is in an upright state or a laid-down state, and a control portion that controls the operation of the actuator, and it is preferable that the control portion controls the operation of the actuator so that the state-change mechanism is switched to the open state when the upright state is detected by the state detection portion, and is switched to the dimming state when the laid-down state is detected by the state detection portion.

[0037] The object detection device is installed in an upright state with the housing part extending vertically in order to detect objects, people, etc. by blocking light. On the other hand, when the object detection device is being transported or installed, the housing part is laid down in a lying state.

[0038] In this configuration, the state detection unit detects whether the lamp is in an upright or lying state, and when the upright state is detected, the state-changing mechanism is automatically switched to the open state by the actuator, whereas when the lying state is detected, the state-changing mechanism is automatically switched to the dimming state by the actuator.

[0039] Therefore, the state-change mechanism can always be switched to an appropriate state depending on the current work conditions, and without the need for troublesome operations, object detection can be performed smoothly in the installed state, and damage to the optical elements by sunlight during transportation, installation, etc. can be prevented.

[0040] In the present invention, a housing portion is provided that houses the focusing member and the optical element, and the state-changing mechanism is configured to be able to swing freely between the open state and the dimming state, and it is preferable that, due to weight balance, the open state is achieved when the housing portion is in an upright state, and the dimming state is achieved when the housing portion is in a laid-down state.

[0041] The object detection device is installed in an upright state with the housing part extending vertically in order to detect objects, people, etc. by blocking light. On the other hand, when the object detection device is being transported or installed, the housing part is laid down in a lying state.

[0042] According to this configuration, when the housing is in the upright position, the state-changing mechanism automatically switches to the open position by swinging due to the weight balance, whereas when the housing is in the laid-down position, the state-changing mechanism automatically switches to the dimming position by swinging due to the weight balance.

[0043] To explain further, for example, if the center of gravity of the state-changing mechanism is in an offset position, it is possible to support the state in a state where the heavy part is always located at the bottom and the light part is located at the top. Even if the housing part changes its position between an upright position and a lying position, the state-changing supply always maintains the same position with the heavy part located at the bottom. Therefore, by utilizing such a relative change in position, it is possible to set the state to be open when the housing part is in the upright position and to switch to the dimming state when the housing part is in the lying position.

[0044] In this way, the state-changing mechanism can switch to an appropriate state depending on the situation at the time by maintaining the posture based on weight balance, and further, no special actuators or control configurations are required, making it possible to respond with a simple configuration. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0045] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an object detection device. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the floodlight device in a laid-down state. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a floodlight. [Figure 4] FIG. [Diagram 5] FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 11 is a schematic configuration diagram of a floodlight according to another embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 11 is a control block diagram of another embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 11 is a schematic configuration diagram of a floodlight according to another embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 11 is a schematic configuration diagram of a floodlight according to another embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a schematic configuration diagram of a floodlight according to another embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 11 is a control block diagram of another embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 11 is a schematic configuration diagram of a floodlight according to another embodiment. [Figure 14] 13 is an explanatory diagram of the operation of another embodiment. FIG. [Figure 15] 13 is an explanatory diagram of the operation of another embodiment. FIG. [Figure 16] FIG. 11 is a schematic configuration diagram of a floodlight according to another embodiment. [Figure 17] 13 is an explanatory diagram of the operation of another embodiment. FIG. [Figure 18] 13 is an explanatory diagram of the operation of another embodiment. FIG. [Figure 19] FIG. 13 is a schematic configuration diagram of a floodlight according to another embodiment in an open state. [Figure 20] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of a floodlight according to another embodiment in a dimmed state. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0046] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following description, unless otherwise specified, the direction of the arrow UP in the drawings is "up" and the direction of the arrow DW is "down."

[0047] An object detection device according to the present invention is shown in Fig. 1. This object detection device A functions as a security sensor that detects an object such as a human body or other intruder and outputs an alarm signal. This object detection device A includes a light-projecting device 1 that projects infrared rays for detection, and a light-receiving device 2 that is disposed opposite the light-projecting device 1 and receives the infrared rays projected from the light-projecting device.

[0048] The light-projecting device 1 and the light-receiving device 2 of the object detection device A have a storage case 9 consisting of a sensor cover 7 and a back box section 8. The light-projecting device 1 has a pair of light-projectors 10 arranged vertically side by side. The light-receiving device 2 has a pair of light-receivers 11 arranged vertically side by side.

[0049] Each of the pair of light transmitters 10 includes a light-projecting element 3 (an example of an optical element 13) and a light-projecting lens 4 (an example of a light-collecting member 12), which are held within the sensor cover 7. Each of the pair of light receivers 11 also includes a light-receiving element 5 (an example of an optical element 13) and a light-receiving lens 6 (an example of a light-collecting member 12), which are held within the sensor cover 7. Infrared rays IR projected from the light-projecting element 3 are received by the light-receiving element 5. In the following description, the light-projecting element 3 and the light-receiving element 5 may be collectively referred to as the optical element 13. Furthermore, the light-projecting lens 4 and the light-receiving lens 6 may be collectively referred to as the light-collecting member 12.

[0050] This object detection device A detects objects in a security zone, which is a linear zone connecting a light-projecting device 1 and a light-receiving device 2. Specifically, when infrared rays IR projected from the light-projecting device 1 are blocked by an object, the object is detected based on a change in the signal level (amount of received light) of the signal received by the opposing light-receiving device 2, and an alarm signal is output. The light-projecting device 1 and the light-receiving device 2 are attached to a mounting portion K such as a pole or a wall.

[0051] The sensor cover 7 of the light-projecting device 1 is capable of transmitting infrared rays IR projected from the light-projector 10. The sensor cover 7 of the light-receiving device 2 is capable of transmitting infrared rays so that the infrared rays IR projected from the light-projecting device 1 are incident on the light-receiving device 11.

[0052] As described above, the object detection device A detects objects, people, etc. by blocking infrared rays between the light-projecting device 1 and the light-receiving device 2, so that the light-projecting device 1 and the light-receiving device 2 are each installed in an upright position with the storage case 9 extending vertically.

[0053] On the other hand, when such an object detection device A is loaded onto a transport vehicle for transport to an installation site, or when it is waiting at the installation site until installation work is performed, the storage case 9 is laid down in a horizontal position, for example, as shown in FIG. 2.

[0054] 3, the projector 10 in the light projection device 1 includes an optical unit 15 having a light projection lens 4, a light projection element 3, and an optical support 14 that integrally supports them. The positional relationship between the light projection element 3 and the light projection lens 4 in the projector 10 is substantially the same as the positional relationship between the light receiving element 5 and the light receiving lens 6 in the receiver 11, so the receiver 11 is not shown in the figure.

[0055] The light-projecting element 3 is attached in a fixed state to a printed circuit board 16. The optical support 14 is provided to cover the periphery of the space between the light-projecting element 3 and the light-projecting lens 4 so that the infrared rays emitted from the light-projecting element 3 are guided toward the light-projecting lens 4 without leaking outward.

[0056] The end of the optical support 14 on the side of the light-projecting element 3 supports a printed circuit board 16. The end of the optical support 14 on the side of the light-projecting lens 4 supports the light-projecting lens 4 in a state surrounding the outer periphery of the light-projecting lens 4. Since the optical support 14 integrally supports the printed circuit board 16 and the light-projecting lens 4 in this manner, the optical unit 15 is configured to maintain a constant optical positional relationship between the light-projecting lens 4 and the light-projecting element 3.

[0057] When the storage case 9 is laid down so as to be in a horizontal position, sunlight may be incident on the light projector 10 and the light receiver 11 through the sensor cover 7 of the storage case 9, as shown in Fig. 2. If the light collecting member 12 (light projector lens 4, light receiving lens 6) is located on the upper side and the optical element 13 (light projector element 3, light receiving element 5) is located on the lower side at that time, the sunlight may be collected through the light collecting member 12 and then irradiate the optical element 13, causing the optical element 13 to receive strong light. In this case, there is a risk that the optical element 13 may be burned out by the strong light.

[0058] Therefore, in this object detection device, the light-projecting device 1 is provided with a state-changing mechanism JH capable of changing between an open state in which the space between the light-projecting element 3 and the light-projecting lens 4 is optically opened, and a dimming state in which the space is optically blocked. Also, the light-receiving device 2 is provided with a state-changing mechanism JH capable of changing between an open state in which the space between the light-receiving element 5 and the light-receiving lens 6 is optically opened, and a dimming state in which the space is optically blocked.

[0059] In the following description, the state-changing mechanism JH provided in the light-projecting device 1 will be described, and a description of the state-changing mechanism JH provided in the light-receiving device 2 will be omitted.

[0060] In this embodiment, the state-changing mechanism JH is provided as an aperture mechanism 20 that can adjust the opening area through which light passes. The aperture mechanism 20 is provided in a state in which it is located between the light-projecting element 3 and the light-projecting lens 4.

[0061] The light-projecting element 3 is fixedly mounted on a printed circuit board 16. The optical support 14 is provided to cover the periphery of the space between the light-projecting element 3 and the light-projecting lens 4 so that infrared rays emitted from the light-projecting element 3 are guided toward the light-projecting lens 4 without leaking outward. The end of the optical support 14 on the light-projecting element 3 side supports the printed circuit board 16. The end of the optical support 14 on the light-projecting lens 4 side supports the light-projecting lens 4 in a state surrounding the outer periphery of the light-projecting lens 4. In this way, the optical support 14 integrally supports the printed circuit board 16 and the light-projecting lens 4, and thus the optical unit 15 is configured to maintain a constant optical positional relationship between the light-projecting lens 4 and the light-projecting element 3.

[0062] The aperture mechanism 20 has a similar structure to an aperture device used in a general camera for photography. That is, as shown in Fig. 4, it is provided with a circular support plate 22 with a circular opening 21 formed in the center, a plurality of partition plates 23 supported by the support plate 22 at regular intervals in the circumferential direction, and a rotation operation body 24 with a circular opening formed in the center and which rotates to swing the plurality of partition plates 23 in the radial direction. One end of the partition plate 23 is supported to be able to swing relative to the support plate 22, and a support pin 25 provided at the other end of the partition plate 23 engages with an elongated hole 26 formed in the rotation operation body 24.

[0063] By rotating the rotating operation body 24, it is possible to switch between an open state in which the central opening 21 is widely opened as shown in Fig. 5(a) and a dimming state in which the central opening 21 is narrowed as shown in Fig. 5(b). It is also possible to appropriately change and adjust the opening area by stopping the rotating operation body 24 at a position halfway between the open state and the dimming state. Also, by changing the shape of the partition plate 23, it is possible to set the central opening area to zero (dimming rate 100%) in the dimming state.

[0064] The rotation operation of the rotation operation body 24 is performed using an electric motor 27, which is an example of an actuator C. Although a detailed configuration is not shown, it is possible to switch between an open state and a dimmed state by rotating the rotation operation body using the electric motor 27. The actuator C is not limited to the electric motor 27, and various devices such as an electric cylinder, an air cylinder, and an electromagnetic solenoid can be used.

[0065] As shown in Fig. 3, a housing portion 28 is provided which houses the light collecting member 12 and the optical element 13 and has an opening 28a for transmitting light. The housing portion 28 is provided integrally with the storage case 9. As shown in Fig. 6, a posture detection sensor 29 is provided as a state detection unit which detects whether the housing portion 28 (storage case 9) is in an upright position or a lying position, and a control unit 30 which controls the operation of the electric motor 27.

[0066] The control unit 30 is configured to control the operation of the electric motor 27 so that the diaphragm mechanism 20 switches to an open state when the attitude detection sensor 29 detects an upright state, and switches to a dimming state when the attitude detection sensor 29 detects a lying down state. The attitude detection sensor 29 can be configured using a three-axis acceleration sensor, which is a well-known configuration. The control unit 30 includes a drive circuit and the like for driving the electric motor 27 based on the condition determination.

[0067] Therefore, when the housing part 28 (storage case 9) is in a laid-down state, the diaphragm mechanism 20 switches to a dimming state, and when the housing part 28 (storage case 9) is in an upright state, the diaphragm mechanism 20 switches to an open state. As a result, when the object detection device A is installed in an upright state, the diaphragm mechanism 20 is in an open state, and the infrared rays emitted by the light-projecting element 3 are smoothly projected toward the light-receiving device 2, enabling smooth object detection operation. On the other hand, when transportation or installation work is being performed, the diaphragm mechanism 20 automatically switches to a dimming state, making it possible to prevent the light-projecting element 3 (optical element 13) from being burned out by sunlight.

[0068] We have explained the state-changing mechanism JH (aperture mechanism 20) provided in the light-projecting device 1, but in the light-receiving device 2, as in the light-projecting device 1, the aperture mechanism 20 is provided in a state in which it is positioned between the light-receiving element 5 and the light-receiving lens 6.

[0069] [Another embodiment] Other embodiments are listed below.

[0070] (1) Instead of operating the throttle mechanism 20 by an actuator, the throttle mechanism 20 may be manually operated. In the case of manual operation, as shown in Figs. 4 and 5, a part of the outer periphery of the rotation operation body 24 is extended radially outward to form the manual operation unit 24a. This manual operation unit 24a is provided so as to be exposed to the outside of the optical support 14, and is configured to be manually rotatable from the outside. By operating the manual operation unit 24a, it is possible to switch between the open state and the dimming state. In the configuration in which switching is performed by manual operation, when the object detection device A is manufactured and transported to the installation site, the rotation operation body 24 is switched to the dimming state in advance. Then, when the object detection device A is installed in an upright state, the installation worker can respond by switching the rotation operation body 24 to the open state.

[0071] In this configuration, by manually adjusting the opening of the diaphragm mechanism 20, the spread width of the light beam projected from the light source 10 can be adjusted, and this can also be used for a sensitivity adjustment function such as reducing the blurred area of ​​faint light that occurs around the light beam.

[0072] (2) The state-changing mechanism JH may be configured to include a shutter mechanism 31 that can be switched between an open state that allows light to pass through the optical path and a dimmed state that prevents light from passing through the optical path.

[0073] The shutter mechanism 31 is provided in each of the light projecting device 1 and the light receiving device 2. As shown in Fig. 7, similarly to the above embodiment, the light projecting device 1 is provided with the shutter mechanism 31 located between the light projecting element 3 and the light projecting lens 4. The same is true for the light receiving device 2.

[0074] The shutter mechanism 31 is capable of switching its posture between an open state in which infrared rays (light) emitted from the light-projecting element 3 are allowed to pass through an optical path along which the infrared rays are guided outward through the light-projecting lens 4, and a dimmed state in which the infrared rays (light) are prevented from passing through the optical path.

[0075] 8, the shutter mechanism 31 includes a single opening / closing operation body 32 that is long in the horizontal direction. At the opening action position of the opening / closing operation body 32, an opening 33 is formed for optically opening the space between the light-projecting element 3 and the light-projecting lens 4. At the closing action position 34 of the opening / closing operation body 32, the plate body remains as it is, and the space between the light-projecting element 3 and the light-projecting lens 4 can be optically blocked.

[0076] The shutter mechanism 31 is provided with a slide operation mechanism 35 that laterally slides the opening / closing operation body 32. The shutter mechanism 31 is also provided with an electric motor 36 as an actuator that operates the slide operation mechanism 35, a posture detection sensor 37 similar to the above embodiment, and a control unit 38 that controls the operation of the electric motor 36.

[0077] If the housing portion 28 (storage case 9) is in an upright state, this is detected by the attitude detection sensor 37, and the control portion 38 controls the operation of the electric motor 36 based on the detection result of the attitude detection sensor 37 so as to optically open the space between the light-projecting element 3 and the light-projecting lens 4 through the opening 33 of the opening / closing operation body 32. On the other hand, if the housing portion 28 (storage case 9) is in a laid-down state, this is detected by the attitude detection sensor 37, and the control portion 38 controls the operation of the electric motor 36 based on the detection result of the attitude detection sensor 37 so that the closing action position 34 of the opening / closing operation body 32 optically blocks the space between the light-projecting element 3 and the light-projecting lens 4.

[0078] (3) When state-changing mechanism JH is in the dimming state, light-collecting member 12 (light-projecting lens 4, light-receiving lens 6) may be covered from the outside. For example, as shown in FIG. 9, an extension 14a may be formed from the optical support 14 on the outer side of the projection lens 4, and a diaphragm mechanism 20 serving as the state-changing mechanism JH may be supported by this extension 14a.

[0079] 10, a swing-operated shutter mechanism 41 may be used instead of the diaphragm mechanism 20. In this shutter mechanism 41, one end of a shielding plate 42 is supported so as to be swingable about a horizontal axis X1 with respect to the optical support 14, and the shielding plate 42 is supported so as to be switchable between a dimming state in which the shielding plate 42 covers the outer side of the projector lens 4 and an open state in which the outer side of the projector lens 4 is opened.

[0080] 11, a slide-operated shutter mechanism 43 may be used instead of the swing-operated shutter mechanism 41. In this slide-operated shutter mechanism 43, the opening / closing plate 44 may be configured to slide laterally, or may be configured to slide vertically.

[0081] The state-changing mechanism JH configured to cover from the outside may be configured to be switchable between an open state and a dimmed state using an actuator (electric motor 27, electric cylinder, air cylinder, electromagnetic solenoid, etc.).

[0082] (4) The configuration for controlling the actuator (electric motor 27, electric cylinder, air cylinder, electromagnetic solenoid, etc.) that switches the state-changing mechanism JH (aperture mechanism 20, shutter mechanism, etc.) between the open state and the dimming state may be configured as follows.

[0083] As shown in FIG. 12, there are provided a power supply state discrimination section 51 which discriminates the state of electricity supplied from a power supply section 50 to an optical section unit 15 having an optical element 13 (light-projecting element 3, etc.), and a control section 52 which controls the operation of an actuator C. The control section 52 is configured to control the operation of the actuator C so that the state-change mechanism JH is switched to an open state when the power supply state discrimination section 51 discriminates that electricity is supplied to the optical element 13, and so that the state-change mechanism JH is switched to a dimming state when the power supply state discrimination section 51 discriminates that electricity is not supplied to the optical element 13.

[0084] The optical unit 15 (optical element 13) is supplied with power and enters a powered state when the object detection device A is performing a detection operation, i.e., when it is transported to the installation location and then installed in an upright position. At that time, the state-change mechanism JH switches to an open state. When the optical unit 15 (optical element 13) is in a power-off state and no power is supplied, the object detection device A is in a state being transported or in a standby state before installation. At that time, the state-change mechanism JH switches to a dimming state, which prevents the optical element 13 from being burned out by sunlight.

[0085] (5) Instead of the above configuration, the following configuration may be used. As shown in FIG. 13, a housing part 61 is provided which covers the outer periphery of the optical unit 15 and has an opening 60 formed in part of the circumferential direction, and the state-change mechanism JH may be configured to support the optical unit 15 so that its posture can be changed relative to the housing part 61 between a position where the focusing member 12 corresponds to the opening 60 and a position where the focusing member 12 is out of the position corresponding to the opening 60.

[0086] In this embodiment, a substantially cylindrical housing part 61 made of a non-translucent material is provided as a housing part covering the outer periphery of the optical unit 15, and an opening 60 capable of transmitting light is formed in a part of the circumferential direction of this housing part 61. The housing part 61 is supported in a positionally fixed state with respect to a fixing part on the main body side such as the storage case 9.

[0087] On the other hand, the optical unit 15 is supported so as to be rotatable relative to the housing part 61 around a rotation axis Y along the central axis direction with the light collecting member 12, the optical element 13, and the optical support 14 supported integrally. The optical unit 15 is supported rotatably via a bearing 63 on a support shaft part 62 fixed to the housing part 61.

[0088] By rotating the optical unit 15, the attitude of the light collecting member 12 can be changed between a position corresponding to the opening 60 as shown in Fig. 14 and a position away from the position corresponding to the opening 60 as shown in Fig. 15. The state shown in Fig. 14 is the open state, and the state shown in Fig. 15 is the dimming state.

[0089] The position of the optical unit 15 may be changed by driving the actuator C (electric motor 27, electric cylinder, air cylinder, electromagnetic solenoid, etc.) or by manual operation. When the actuator C is used, various control configurations as described above can be adopted.

[0090] (6) Instead of the above configuration, the following configuration may be used. As shown in FIG. 16 , a housing portion 71 is provided which covers the outer periphery of the optical unit 15 and has an opening 70 formed in part of the circumferential direction, and the state-change mechanism JH may be configured to support the housing portion 71 so that its posture can be changed relative to the optical unit 15 between a position where the opening 70 corresponds to the focusing member 12 and a position where the opening 70 is out of position corresponding to the focusing member 12.

[0091] In other words, a housing portion 71 having an approximately cylindrical shape and made of a non-translucent material is provided as a housing portion covering the outer periphery of the optical unit 15, and an opening 70 that allows light to pass through is formed in part of the circumferential direction of this housing portion 71, which is the same as in the above-mentioned embodiment; however, in this embodiment, the housing portion 71 is supported so as to be rotatable.

[0092] The optical unit 15 is supported in a positionally fixed state relative to a fixed portion on the main body side, such as the storage case 9, via a support frame 72. Meanwhile, the housing portion 71 is rotatably supported via a bearing 74 on a support shaft portion 73 fixed to the fixed portion.

[0093] By rotating the housing part 71, the attitude of the light collecting member 12 can be changed between a position corresponding to the opening 70 as shown in Fig. 17 and a position where the light collecting member 12 is out of the position corresponding to the opening 70 as shown in Fig. 18. The state shown in Fig. 17 is the open state, and the state shown in Fig. 18 is the dimming state.

[0094] The position of the housing part 71 may be changed by driving the actuator C (electric motor 27, electric cylinder, air cylinder, electromagnetic solenoid, etc.) or by manual operation. When the actuator C is used, various control configurations as described above can be adopted.

[0095] (7) Instead of the above configuration, the following configuration may be used. As shown in FIG. 19, a housing portion 80 is provided that houses the focusing member 12 and the optical element 13, and the state-changing mechanism JH is configured to be able to swing freely between an open state and a dimming state, and may be configured such that, due to weight balance, the open state is achieved when the housing portion 80 is in an upright state, and the dimming state is achieved when the housing portion 80 is in a laid-down state.

[0096] In this embodiment, a housing portion 80 made of a non-translucent material is provided as a housing portion covering the outer periphery of the optical unit 15 in which the focusing member 12, the optical element 13, and the optical support 14 are integrally supported, and an opening 81 that allows light to pass through is formed in part of the circumferential direction of this housing portion 80.

[0097] The housing 80 is supported in a fixed position relative to a fixed portion on the main body side, such as the storage case 9. The optical unit 15 is supported by the housing 80 so as to be swingable around the horizontal axis X2, and a weight member 82 is provided in a state connected to the lower side of the optical support 14. By providing the weight member 82, the center of gravity is positioned below the swing axis. As a result, the optical unit 15 is maintained in a position where the weight member 82 is always positioned below due to weight balance.

[0098] 19, when the housing part 80 (storage case 9) is in an upright state, the position of the housing part 80 is set so that the light collecting member 12 is in a position corresponding to the opening 81. When the housing part 80 (storage case 9) is in a laid-down state, as shown in Fig. 20, the opening 81 moves to a different position as the position of the housing part 80 (storage case 9) changes, but the optical unit 15 is maintained in a position in which the weight member 82 is positioned on the lower side, so that the light collecting member 12 is in a position displaced from the position corresponding to the opening 81.

[0099] In this way, the state-change mechanism JH utilizes a relative change in posture to become open when the housing part 80, which is integral with the storage case 9, becomes upright, and switches to a dimming state when the housing part 80 becomes laid down.

[0100] Instead of the above configuration, for example, the optical unit 15 may be supported in a fixed position relative to a fixed part on the main body side such as the storage case 9, the housing part 80 may be supported relative to the fixed part so as to be freely swingable around a horizontal axis, and a weight member may be provided in a state connected to the lower side. In this configuration, regardless of changes in the posture of the storage case 9, the housing part 80 always maintains the same posture due to weight balance, and since the optical unit 15 is provided integrally with the storage case 9, when the storage case 9 is in an upright position, it is in an open state, and when the storage case 9 is in a laid-down position, it is switched to a dimming state. Furthermore, as described above, the configuration in which the optical unit 15 or the housing part 80 is maintained in a position located on the lower side due to weight balance is not limited to a configuration including a weight member, but may be a configuration in which the center of gravity of the optical unit 15 or the housing part 80 is located at a position shifted to one side from the pivot axis position.

[0101] In this way, the free swing caused by the weight balance allows the device to always be switched to an appropriate state, and no special actuator or control configuration is required, allowing for a simple configuration.

[0102] (8) In the above embodiment, a configuration using a light-transmitting light-projecting lens 4 and a light-receiving lens 6 was used as an example of the light-collecting member 12. However, the light-collecting member 12 is not limited to a light-transmitting lens, and may be a reflection mirror that collects light by reflecting it and directs it to an optical element.

[0103] (9) In each of the above embodiments, the light-projecting device 1 and the light-receiving device 2 are provided on either side of the object detection area. However, this configuration is not limited to this, and the light-projecting device 10 and the light-receiving device 11 may be provided in a single storage case 9, and the light for detection reflected by the object for detection may be received. [Industrial Applicability]

[0104] The present invention can be applied to an object detection device that optically detects an object. [Explanation of symbols]

[0105] 12 Light collecting member 13 Optical elements 14 Optical support 15 Optical unit 20 Aperture Mechanism 29, 37 Attitude detection sensor (status detection section) 31, 41 Shutter mechanism 51 Power supply status determination unit 52 Control section 60, 70 opening 28, 61, 71, 80 Housing section C Actuator JH Posture change mechanism

Claims

1. An object detection device that optically detects an object, An optical element; A light collecting member provided for the optical element; An object detection device provided with a state-change mechanism capable of changing a state between an open state in which the space between the optical element and the focusing member is optically opened, and a dimming state in which the space is optically blocked.

2. 2. The object detection device according to claim 1, wherein the state changing mechanism is an aperture mechanism capable of changing and adjusting an opening area through which light passes.

3. The object detection device according to claim 1 , wherein the state-changing mechanism is a shutter mechanism that can be switched between the open state that allows light to pass through the optical path and the dimming state that prevents light from passing through the optical path.

4. 4. The object detection device according to claim 2, wherein the state-changing mechanism is located between the optical element and the light-collecting member in the dimming state.

5. The object detection device according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the state-changing mechanism covers the light-collecting member from an outside when in the light-reducing state.

6. an optical unit having the light collecting member, the optical element, and an optical support that integrally supports them; and a housing portion that covers an outer periphery of the optical unit and has an opening formed in a part of the circumferential direction, The object detection device according to claim 1 , wherein the state-change mechanism supports the optical unit so that its posture can be changed relative to the housing between a position where the light-collecting member corresponds to the opening and a position where the light-collecting member is out of the position corresponding to the opening.

7. an optical unit having the light collecting member, the optical element, and an optical support that integrally supports them; and a housing portion that covers an outer periphery of the optical unit and has an opening formed in a part of the circumferential direction, The object detection device according to claim 1 , wherein the state-change mechanism supports the housing portion so that its posture can be changed relative to the optical unit between a position where the opening corresponds to the light-collecting member and a position where the opening is out of position corresponding to the light-collecting member.

8. 2. The object detection device according to claim 1, further comprising a manual operation unit capable of switching said state-changing mechanism between said open state and said dimming state based on a manual operation.

9. 2. The object detection device according to claim 1, further comprising an actuator operable to switch said state-changing mechanism between said open state and said dimming state.

10. a power supply state determination unit that determines a power supply state to the optical element; A control unit that controls the operation of the actuator is provided. The object detection device of claim 9, wherein the control unit controls the operation of the actuator so that the state-change mechanism switches to the open state when the power supply state determination unit determines that electricity is flowing to the optical element, and so that the state-change mechanism switches to the dimming state when the power supply state determination unit determines that electricity is not flowing to the optical element.

11. a housing portion that accommodates the light collecting member and the optical element; a state detection unit that detects whether the housing unit is in an upright state or a laid-down state; A control unit that controls the operation of the actuator is provided.

10. The object detection device according to claim 9, wherein the control unit controls the operation of the actuator so that the state-changing mechanism switches to the open state when the state detection unit detects the upright state, and switches to the dimming state when the state detection unit detects the laid-down state.

12. a housing portion that houses the light collecting member and the optical element; The object detection device of claim 1, wherein the state-change mechanism is configured to be freely swingable between the open state and the dimming state, and wherein, due to weight balance, the state-change mechanism is in the open state when the housing portion is in an upright state, and is in the dimming state when the housing portion is in a laid-down state.

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