Range hood

Abstract

To provide a range hood capable of increasing and decreasing an air volume according to non-contact operation while suppressing an increase in cost.SOLUTION: The range hood includes a first sensor for outputting a signal SG1 indicating the presence or absence of an object in a first area below a hood part, a second sensor for outputting a signal SG2 indicating the presence or absence of an object in a second area below the hood part, and a control part for controlling a blower. The control unit increases the air volume of the blower in response to signals SG1, SG2 satisfying a first condition, and decreases the air volume of the blower in response to signals SG1, SG2 satisfying a second condition. The first condition includes a condition that the signal SG1 indicates the presence of the object after the signal SG2 indicates the presence of the object. The second condition includes a condition that the signal SG2 indicates the presence of the object after the signal SG1 indicates the presence of the object.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a range hood. [Background technology]

[0002] Japanese Patent No. 3329688 (Patent Document 1) discloses a range hood equipped with a first sensor unit, a second sensor unit, and a control unit. The first sensor unit detects a hand held above the range hood body. The second sensor unit is provided at a predetermined distance from the first sensor unit so as to detect the hand's movement. The control unit switches the fan on and off based on the time difference between the generation of the detection signal from the first sensor unit and the detection signal from the second sensor unit. This allows the user to switch the fan on and off without contact. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 3329688 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] According to the range hood disclosed in Patent Document 1, the first and second sensors are used only to switch the fan on and off. Range hoods generally have the ability to change the fan's airflow. Therefore, users often desire to increase or decrease the airflow without contact.

[0005] It is conceivable to add a new sensor unit to control the airflow volume in addition to the first and second sensor units, but in this case, the cost required for the sensor unit increases.

[0006] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a range hood that can increase and decrease the air volume in response to non-contact operation while suppressing increases in costs. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to one aspect of the present invention, a range hood includes a main body case, a hood section, a first sensor, a second sensor, and a control unit. The main body case houses a blower. The hood section collects gas rising from below and guides it to the blower. The first sensor outputs a first signal indicating the presence or absence of an object in a first region below or in front of the hood section. The second sensor outputs a second signal indicating the presence or absence of an object in a second region below or in front of the hood section. The control unit controls the blower. The control unit increases the airflow rate of the blower in response to the first signal and the second signal satisfying a first condition, and decreases the airflow rate of the blower in response to the first signal and the second signal satisfying a second condition. The first condition includes a condition that the second signal indicates the presence of an object after the first signal indicates the presence of an object. The second condition includes a condition that the first signal indicates the presence of an object after the second signal indicates the presence of an object. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to realize a range hood that can increase and decrease the airflow volume in response to a non-contact operation while suppressing an increase in cost. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view showing a range hood according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the internal configuration of a sensor. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a control board. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a portion of definition information. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating another example of a portion of definition information. [Figure 6]FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a typical example of a non-contact operation corresponding to pattern “A.” [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a typical example of a contactless operation corresponding to pattern “E.” [Figure 8] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing typical examples of non-contact operations corresponding to a first pattern. [Figure 9] 10 is a diagram showing state transitions of the blower under the control of the control unit. FIG. [Figure 10] 10 is a diagram showing the transition of a constant ventilation function flag under the control of the control unit. FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing state transitions of one or more lighting devices under the control of a control unit. [Figure 12] 10 is a flowchart showing a part (steps S1 to S10) of an example of processing by the control unit. [Figure 13] 10 is a flowchart showing another part (steps S11 to S20) of the exemplary process of the control unit. [Figure 14] 10 is a flowchart showing still another part (steps S21 to S35) of the exemplary process of the control unit. [Figure 15] 10 is a flowchart showing still another part (steps S36 to S40) of the exemplary process of the control unit. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the configuration of a control board according to Modification 1. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the configuration of a control board according to Modification 2. [Figure 18] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing a range hood according to a sixth modification. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following description, the same or corresponding parts in the drawings are designated by the same reference numerals, and their description will not be repeated in principle.

[0011] <Range hood configuration> The configuration of a range hood 10 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 3. Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the range hood according to this embodiment. The range hood 10 is installed above a cooking appliance such as a stove. As shown in Figure 1, the range hood 10 includes a main body case 1, a hood unit 2, sensors 3a and 3b, one or more lighting devices 4, a blower 5, a rectifying plate 6, a user interface unit 7, and a control board 8.

[0012] The main body case 1 houses a blower 5. The blower 5 is disposed in a ventilation passage provided inside the main body case 1.

[0013] The hood section 2 is located below the main body case 1 and collects gas rising from below and guides it to the blower 5. The hood section 2 has a flat rectangular parallelepiped shape (rectangular box shape) that is short in both the vertical direction. A recess is formed in the lower surface 2b of the hood section 2. The rectifying plate 6 is detachably attached to the recess so as to face the hood section 2 with a gap therebetween.

[0014] When the blower 5 operates, gas rising from below is guided to the blower 5 through the gap 60 between the hood portion 2 and the rectifying plate 6, and is then discharged to the outside through a duct (not shown).

[0015] The airflow rate of the blower 5 is controlled by the control board 8. For example, the airflow rate of the blower 5 is controlled to one of four levels: "strong operation," "medium operation," "weak operation," and "constant ventilation operation." The order of airflow rate is "strong operation," "medium operation," "weak operation," and "constant ventilation operation." Therefore, "constant ventilation operation" is also called "weakest operation." The blower 5 operates at the airflow rate of "constant ventilation operation" when the constant ventilation function is set to on and no instruction for "strong operation," "medium operation," or "weak operation" has been received. The constant ventilation function is set to on when the range hood 10 is used as a constant ventilation system for a home.

[0016] The sensors 3a and 3b detect the presence or absence of an object. For example, the sensors 3a and 3b are infrared sensors, distance sensors, or proximity sensors. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the sensors 3a and 3b are provided on the underside 2b of the hood portion 2. The sensors 3a and 3b are arranged at a predetermined interval along a direction parallel to the front surface 2a of the hood portion 2 and the horizontal plane (the X-axis direction in FIG. 1). The sensor 3a outputs a signal SG1 indicating the presence or absence of an object in the region 30a below the hood portion 2. The sensor 3b outputs a signal SG2 indicating the presence or absence of an object in the region 30b below the hood portion 2. The sensor 3a is an example of a "first sensor" (or a "second sensor") in the present disclosure. The sensor 3b is an example of a "second sensor" (or a "first sensor") in the present disclosure. The signal SG1 is an example of a "first signal" (or a "second signal") in the present disclosure. Signal SG2 is an example of a "second signal" (or a "first signal") in this disclosure.

[0017] Areas 30a and 30b are predetermined so as not to overlap with areas where a user's body parts (typically hands) may be present during normal cooking. Area 30a is an example of a "first area" (or "second area") in the present disclosure. Area 30b is an example of a "second area" (or "first area") in the present disclosure.

[0018] Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the internal configuration of a sensor. As shown in Fig. 2, each of sensors 3a and 3b includes a light-projecting unit 31, a light-receiving unit 32, and a signal generating unit 33. Light-projecting unit 31 periodically emits pulsed light. Light-receiving unit 32 receives light reflected from an object (typically a user's hand).

[0019] The signal generator 33 generates a signal indicating the presence or absence of an object in the target area based on the time difference between when the light projector 31 emits a pulsed light and when the light receiver 32 receives reflected light equal to or greater than a predetermined amount of light. Specifically, the signal generator 33 generates a high-level (H) signal when the time difference is within a reference range. The signal generator 33 generates a low-level (L) signal when the time difference is outside the reference range or when the light receiver 32 does not receive reflected light equal to or greater than a predetermined amount of light. The time difference depends on the distance between the sensors 3a and 3b and the object. The reference range is set according to the areas 30a and 30b. As a result, the sensors 3a and 3b output a high-level signal when an object is present in the target area.

[0020] Returning to FIG. 1, one or more lighting devices 4 are attached to the underside 2b of the hood portion 2 and illuminate the area below the hood portion 2. The one or more lighting devices 4 are configured, for example, with light-emitting diodes. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the one or more lighting devices 4 include a lighting device 4a arranged to the left of the sensor 3a and a lighting device 4b arranged to the right of the sensor 3b. Note that the arrangement of the one or more lighting devices 4 is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 1. For example, a single lighting device 4 may be arranged between the sensor 3a and the sensor 3b.

[0021] The user interface unit 7 is provided on the front surface 2a of the hood unit 2 and provides the user with information indicating the current operating status. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the user interface unit 7 includes indicator lights 7a to 7c for indicating the current air volume and an indicator light 7d for indicating whether the constant ventilation function is on or off. The indicator lights 7a to 7c are lit when the current air volume is "strong operation," "medium operation," or "weak operation," respectively. The indicator light 7d is lit when the constant ventilation function is on.

[0022] It is preferable that the X-axis coordinate of one of the indicator lights 7a to 7d (for example, indicator light 7a) coincides with the X-axis coordinate of sensor 3a. In other words, it is preferable that one of the indicator lights 7a to 7d (for example, indicator light 7a) and sensor 3a are located on the same plane perpendicular to the X-axis direction. Similarly, it is preferable that the X-axis position of one of the indicator lights 7a to 7d (for example, indicator light 7d) coincides with the X-axis position of sensor 3b. In other words, it is preferable that one of the indicator lights 7a to 7d (for example, indicator light 7d) and sensor 3b are located on the same plane perpendicular to the X-axis direction. This makes it easier for the user to grasp the positions of sensors 3a and 3b.

[0023] The user interface unit 7 may receive touch operations from the user. For example, the user interface unit 7 may include a switch for switching the airflow rate, a switch for switching one or more lighting devices 4 on and off, a switch for switching the continuous ventilation function on and off, etc. Each switch may be a physical switch or a capacitance switch.

[0024] The control board 8 controls the operation of the range hood 10. Specifically, the control board 8 controls the operation of the range hood 10 based on the signals SG1 and SG2 from the sensors 3a and 3b.

[0025] 3 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the control board 8. As shown in FIG. 3, the control board 8 includes a storage unit 81 and a control unit 82.

[0026] The storage unit 81 is realized by a RAM (Random Access Memory), a ROM (Read-Only Memory), a flash memory, etc. The storage unit 81 stores programs executed by the control unit 82, data used by the control unit 82, etc.

[0027] The storage unit 81 stores definition information 90, a constant ventilation function flag 91, and set air volume data 92 as data used by the control unit 82. Details of the definition information 90 will be described later.

[0028] The constant ventilation function flag 91 indicates whether the constant ventilation function is on or off. Note that, at the time of shipping of the range hood 10, the constant ventilation function flag 91 may indicate "off" or "on."

[0029] The set air volume data 92 indicates one of "high operation," "medium operation," and "low operation" as the set air volume. When the range hood 10 is shipped, the set air volume data 92 indicates one of "high operation," "medium operation," and "low operation."

[0030] The control unit 82 is realized by a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), etc. The control unit 82 controls the fan 5 and one or more lighting devices 4 based on signals SG1 and SG2 from the sensors 3a and 3b.

[0031] <Main features of the control board> In this embodiment, control unit 82 increases the airflow rate of fan 5 when signals SG1 and SG2 satisfy a first condition, and decreases the airflow rate of fan 5 when signals SG1 and SG2 satisfy a second condition. The first condition includes condition (a) that signal SG2 indicates the presence of an object after signal SG1 indicates the presence of an object. The second condition includes condition (b) that signal SG1 indicates the presence of an object after signal SG2 indicates the presence of an object.

[0032] According to the above configuration, when the user moves their hand from area 30a to area 30b, signals SG1 and SG2 satisfy the first condition. On the other hand, when the user moves their hand from area 30b to area 30a, signals SG1 and SG2 satisfy the second condition. Therefore, range hood 10 can increase or decrease the airflow volume according to the content of the user's non-contact operation without increasing the number of sensors that detect the presence or absence of an object to three or more.

[0033] When the user moves their hand from area 30a to area 30b (or vice versa), the length of the period during which the hand is located in areas 30a and 30b is one second or less. The length of the period during which the hand is located between areas 30a and 30b is also one second or less. Therefore, the first condition and the second condition may further include the following conditions (c) to (e). This allows the control unit 82 to more reliably recognize a non-contact operation in which the user moves their hand from area 30a to area 30b (or vice versa). In other words, the control unit 82 can reduce the frequency of erroneously recognizing an unintended action by the user as a non-contact operation in which the hand is moved from area 30a to area 30b (or vice versa). Condition (c): The length of the first period during which the signal SG1 indicates the presence of an object is within a first range. Condition (d): The length of the second period during which the signal SG2 indicates the presence of an object is within a second range. Condition (e): The length of a third period between the first period and the second period is within a third range. The upper limit of each of the first to third ranges is 1 second or less. The control by the control board 8 will be described in detail below.

[0034] <Definition information> 4 and 5, the definition information 90 used by the control unit 82 to control the range hood 10 in response to a non-contact operation will be described. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a portion of the definition information. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing another example of a portion of the definition information. The definition information 90 shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 shows seven patterns "A" to "G" as multiple patterns that the changes over time of the signals SG1 and SG2 can take.

[0035] Patterns "A", "B", and "E" are examples of one or more first patterns in which signals SG1 and SG2 indicate the presence of an object. Patterns "A" and "B" differ from each other in the order of appearance of the period T1 in which signal SG1 indicates the presence of an object and the period T2 in which signal SG2 indicates the presence of an object. Pattern "A" is a pattern that satisfies the first condition, including the above condition (a). That is, in pattern "A", signal SG2 indicates the presence of an object after signal SG1 indicates the presence of an object. On the other hand, pattern "B" is a pattern that satisfies the second condition, including the above condition (b). That is, in pattern "B", signal SG1 indicates the presence of an object after signal SG2 indicates the presence of an object.

[0036] 6 is a diagram showing a typical example of a non-contact operation corresponding to pattern "A." As shown in FIG. 6, pattern "A" corresponds to a non-contact operation in which the user moves their hand from the area 30a below sensor 3a to the area 30b below sensor 3b. Conversely, pattern "B" corresponds to a non-contact operation in which the user moves their hand from the area 30b below sensor 3b to the area 30a below sensor 3a.

[0037] Therefore, for patterns "A" and "B," the definition information 90 defines lower and upper limit values ​​for each of a first range of possible lengths of a period T1 during which the signal SG1 indicates the presence of an object, a second range of possible lengths of a period T2 during which the signal SG2 indicates the presence of an object, and a third range of possible lengths of a period T3 between the periods T1 and T2. The lower and upper limit values ​​of the first to third ranges are determined depending on the speed at which the user moves their hand, the positions of the sensors 3a and 3b, the sizes of the regions 30a and 30b, etc. The lower limit value of each of the first and second ranges is set to a threshold Min_1 on the order of 10 ms, for example. The upper limit value of each of the first and second ranges is set to a threshold Min_1 on the order of 100 ms, for example. Typically, the threshold Min_1 is 10 ms, and the threshold Max_1 is 200 ms. The lower limit value of the third range is set to a threshold Min_2 on the order of 100 ms, for example. The upper limit of the third range is set to a threshold value Max_2 of, for example, about 1 second. Typically, the threshold value Min_2 is 100 ms, and the threshold value Max_2 is 1 second.

[0038] In pattern "E," the period during which both signals SG1 and SG2 indicate the presence of an object lasts for a relatively long time (for example, one second or more). Pattern "E" is an example of the "fourth pattern" of the present disclosure.

[0039] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a typical example of a contactless operation corresponding to pattern "E." As shown in FIG. 7, pattern "E" corresponds to a contactless operation in which a user holds their left and right hands over the areas 30a and 30b below the sensors 3a and 3b, respectively, approximately simultaneously for a relatively long period of time (e.g., one second or more). Therefore, the definition information 90 defines a lower limit value of a fourth range that can be taken by the length of the period T4 during which both signals SG1 and SG2 are at a high level. The lower limit value of the fourth range is set to a threshold value Min_3 that is greater than the upper limits of the first and second ranges. The threshold value Min_3 is selected from a range of, for example, 200 ms to 10 seconds, and is typically 3 seconds.

[0040] Returning to FIG. 4, patterns "C" and "D" are examples of one or more second patterns in which only signal SG1 indicates the presence of an object. Patterns "C" and "D" differ from each other in the number of times signal SG1 indicates the presence of an object. Specifically, pattern "C" satisfies the third condition, which includes condition (f) that signal SG1 indicates the presence of an object only once and condition (g) that signal SG2 does not indicate the presence of an object. Pattern "D" satisfies the fourth condition, which includes condition (h) that signal SG1 indicates the presence of an object twice and condition (g) that signal SG2 does not indicate the presence of an object.

[0041] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a typical example of a non-contact operation corresponding to the first pattern. Pattern "C" corresponds to a non-contact operation in which a user holds their hand over the area 30a below the sensor 3a. For pattern "C," the definition information 90 defines the lower limit of a fifth range that can be taken by the length of the period T5 indicating the presence of an object. The lower limit of the fifth range is, for example, on the order of 10 ms, and is set to the same threshold Min_1 (typically 10 ms) as the lower limit of each of the first and second ranges.

[0042] Pattern "D" corresponds to a non-contact operation in which the user holds their hand over the area 30a below the sensor 3a and then retracts it from the area 30a twice in succession. Therefore, for pattern "D," the definition information 90 defines the lower and upper limits of a sixth range within which the length of the period T6 indicating the first presence of an object can fall, and the lower and upper limits of a seventh range within which the length of the period T7 indicating the second presence of an object can fall. Furthermore, the definition information 90 defines the lower and upper limits of an eighth range within which the length of the period T8 between the periods T6 and T7 can fall. The lower limits of the sixth and seventh ranges are, for example, on the order of 10 ms and are set to the same threshold value Min_1 (typically 10 ms) as the lower limits of the first and second ranges. The upper limits of the sixth and seventh ranges are, for example, on the order of 100 ms and are set to the same threshold value Max_1 (typically 200 ms) as the upper limits of the first and second ranges. The lower limit of the eighth range is, for example, on the order of 100 ms, and is set to the same threshold Min_2 (typically 100 ms) as the lower limit of the third range. The upper limit of the eighth range is, for example, about 1 second, and is set to the same threshold Max_2 (typically 1 second) as the upper limit of the third range.

[0043] Returning to FIG. 5, patterns "F" and "G" are examples of one or more third patterns in which only signal SG2 indicates the presence of an object. Patterns "F" and "G" differ from each other in the number of times signal SG2 indicated the presence of an object. Specifically, in pattern "F," signal SG2 indicates that an object was present only once. In pattern "G," signal SG2 indicates that an object was present twice.

[0044] The definition information 90 defines the lower limit of a ninth range of possible lengths of the period T9 indicating the presence of an object for pattern "F." The lower limit of the ninth range is, for example, on the order of 10 ms, and is set to the same threshold Min_1 (typically 10 ms) as the lower limits of the first and second ranges.

[0045] For pattern "G," the definition information 90 defines the lower and upper limits of a tenth range that the length of a period T10 indicating the presence of a first object may take, and the lower and upper limits of an eleventh range that the length of a period T11 indicating the presence of a second object may take. Furthermore, the definition information 90 defines the lower and upper limits of a twelfth range that the length of a period T12 between periods T10 and T11 may take. The lower limits of the tenth and eleventh ranges are, for example, on the order of 10 ms and are set to the same threshold Min_1 (typically 10 ms) as the lower limits of the first and second ranges. The upper limits of the tenth and eleventh ranges are, for example, on the order of 100 ms and are set to the same threshold Max_1 (typically 200 ms) as the upper limits of the first and second ranges. The lower limit of the twelfth range is, for example, on the order of 100 ms and is set to the same threshold Min_2 (typically 100 ms) as the lower limit of the third range. The upper limit of the twelfth range is, for example, about 1 second, and is set to the same threshold value Max_2 (typically 1 second) as the upper limit of the third range.

[0046] The definition information 90 defines different control contents for the patterns "A" to "G." For example, the definition information 90 defines the control contents "increase airflow," "decrease airflow," "start airflow," and "stop airflow" for the blower 5 for the patterns "A" to "D," respectively. The definition information 90 defines the control content "switch on / off of constant ventilation function" for the pattern "E." The definition information 90 defines the control contents "turn on lights" and "turn off lights" for the patterns "F" and "G," respectively, for one or more lighting devices 4.

[0047] Furthermore, the definition information 90 defines the preconditions for the state of the range hood 10 for implementing the corresponding control content for each of the patterns "A" to "D," "F," and "G." For example, the definition information 90 defines the preconditions for the patterns "A" to "D," "F," and "G" as "medium or low operation," "high or medium operation," "air blower stopped or constant ventilation operation," "low, medium, or high operation," "lights off," and "lights on," respectively.

[0048] The control unit 82 uses the definition information 90 to control the operation of the range hood 10. Specifically, when the change over time of the signals SG1 and SG2 matches the pattern "E," the control unit 82 implements the corresponding control response "switching the constant ventilation function on and off" regardless of the state of the range hood 10. Furthermore, when the change over time of the signals SG1 and SG2 matches any of the patterns "A" to "D," "F," and "G," and the preconditions corresponding to the matching pattern are satisfied, the control unit 82 implements the control response corresponding to the matching pattern.

[0049] <Range hood state transition> 9 is a diagram showing the state transition of the blower under the control of the control unit. As shown in FIG. 9, when the change over time of signals SG1 and SG2 matches pattern "E" in a state in which blower 5 is stopped ("blow-stopped" state), the state of blower 5 transitions to "constant ventilation operation." When the change over time of signals SG1 and SG2 matches pattern "C" in the "blow-stopped" state, the state of blower 5 transitions to operation at the set airflow indicated by set airflow data 92 (either "strong operation," "medium operation," or "weak operation").

[0050] When the change over time of signals SG1 and SG2 matches pattern "E" while the fan 5 is operating in "constant ventilation operation," the state of the fan 5 transitions to "air-blowing stopped." When the change over time of signals SG1 and SG2 matches pattern "C" while the fan 5 is operating in "constant ventilation operation," the state of the fan 5 transitions to operation at the set air volume indicated by the set air volume data 92 (either "strong operation," "medium operation," or "weak operation").

[0051] When the blower 5 is operating at the set airflow rate, if the time-dependent changes in the signals SG1 and SG2 match pattern "D" and the constant ventilation function flag indicates "off", the state of the blower 5 transitions to "air-blowing stopped". When the blower 5 is operating at the set airflow rate, if the time-dependent changes in the signals SG1 and SG2 match pattern "D" and the constant ventilation function flag indicates "on", the state of the blower 5 transitions to "constant ventilation operation".

[0052] When the fan 5 is operating in either "medium operation" or "weak operation," if the change over time in the signals SG1 and SG2 matches pattern "A," the airflow rate of the fan 5 increases by one level. That is, if the fan 5 is operating in "medium operation," the state of the fan 5 transitions to "strong operation." If the fan 5 is operating in "weak operation," the state of the fan 5 transitions to "medium operation."

[0053] When the fan 5 is operating in either "high operation" or "medium operation," if the change over time in the signals SG1 and SG2 matches pattern "B," the airflow rate of the fan 5 decreases by one level. That is, if the fan 5 is operating in "high operation," the state of the fan 5 transitions to "medium operation." If the fan 5 is operating in "medium operation," the state of the fan 5 transitions to "low operation."

[0054] 10 is a diagram showing the transition of the constant ventilation function flag under the control of the control unit. As shown in FIG. 10, when the constant ventilation function flag indicates "off," if the changes over time of signals SG1 and SG2 match pattern "E," the constant ventilation function flag transitions to "on." When the constant ventilation function flag indicates "on," if the changes over time of signals SG1 and SG2 match pattern "E," the constant ventilation function flag transitions to "off."

[0055] 11 is a diagram showing state transitions of one or more lighting devices under the control of a control unit. As shown in FIG. 11, when lighting device 4 is turned off, if the changes over time of signals SG1 and SG2 match pattern "F," the state of lighting device 4 transitions to "on." When lighting device 4 is turned on, if the changes over time of signals SG1 and SG2 match pattern "G," the state of lighting device 4 transitions to "off."

[0056] <Processing flow of the control unit> An example of the processing flow of the control unit will be described with reference to Figs. 12 to 15. Fig. 12 is a flowchart showing part of the processing example of the control unit (steps S1 to S10). Fig. 13 is a flowchart showing another part of the processing example of the control unit (steps S11 to S20). Fig. 14 is a flowchart showing yet another part of the processing example of the control unit (steps S21 to S35). Fig. 15 is a flowchart showing yet another part of the processing example of the control unit (steps S36 to S40). Note that the processing of the control unit 82 is not limited to the flows shown in Figs. 12 to 15.

[0057] When started, the control unit 82 controls the blower 5 in accordance with the constant ventilation function flag 91 (step S1). Specifically, when the constant ventilation function flag 91 indicates "on", the control unit 82 operates the blower 5 in "constant ventilation operation". When the constant ventilation function flag 91 indicates "off", the control unit 82 keeps the blower 5 stopped.

[0058] Next, the control unit 82 determines whether or not both of the signals SG1 and SG2 are at a low level (step S2). If the determination result in step S2 is "NO", the process returns to step S2.

[0059] If the determination result in step S2 is "YES", the control unit 82 determines whether signal SG1 or signal SG2 has changed from a low level to a high level (step S3). If the determination result in step S3 is "NO", the process returns to step S3. If the determination result in step S3 is "YES", the control unit 82 resets the count value t1 of the first counter that measures the clock pulse to 0 (step S4). As a result, the count value t1 represents the elapsed time since the timing when signal SG1 or signal SG2 changed from a low level to a high level.

[0060] After step S4, the control unit 82 identifies the signal that changed from a low level to a high level in step S4 (step S5). If signal SG1 has changed from a low level to a high level, the process proceeds to step S6. If signal SG2 has changed from a low level to a high level, the process proceeds to step S21.

[0061] In step S6, the control unit 82 determines whether signal SG2 has also changed from a low level to a high level during the period 0≦t1<Min_1. Step S6 is performed to confirm whether the temporal changes of signals SG1 and SG2 match the pattern "E". If the determination result in step S7 is "NO", the control unit 82 determines that the condition (f) that signal SG1 indicates the presence of an object only once and the condition (g) that signal SG2 does not indicate the presence of an object are satisfied. That is, the control unit 82 determines that the third condition including conditions (f) and (g) is satisfied. As a result, the control unit 82 determines that the temporal changes of signals SG1 and SG2 match the pattern "C", and determines whether the prerequisite conditions corresponding to the pattern "C" are satisfied. That is, the control unit 82 determines whether the state of the blower 5 is "blower stop" or "constant ventilation operation" (step S7). If the determination result in step S7 is "YES", the control unit 82 performs the control content "start blowing" corresponding to the pattern "C" (step S8). That is, the control unit 82 causes the blower 5 to start blowing at the set air volume indicated by the set air volume data 92. After step S8, the process returns to step S2.

[0062] If the determination result in step S7 is "NO", the control unit 82 determines whether the signal SG2 is maintained at a low level and whether the signal SG1 has changed from a high level to a low level during the period Min_1≦t1≦Max_1 (step S9). If the determination result in step S9 is "NO", the control unit 82 determines that the changes over time of the signals SG1 and SG2 do not match the remaining patterns, and returns the process to step S2.

[0063] If the determination result in step S9 is "YES", the control unit 82 resets the count value t2 of the second counter that measures clock pulses to 0 (step S9). As a result, the count value t2 represents the elapsed time from the timing when the signal SG1 changed from high level to low level.

[0064] After step S10, the control unit 82 determines whether the signal SG1 or SG2 has changed from a low level to a high level during the period Min_2≦t2≦Max_2 (step S11). If the determination result in step S11 is "NO", the control unit 82 determines that the changes over time of the signals SG1 and SG2 do not match the remaining patterns, and returns the process to step S2.

[0065] If the determination result in step S11 is "YES", the control unit 82 identifies the signal that has changed from low level to high level (step S12).

[0066] If signal SG1 is identified in step S12, the control unit 82 resets the count value t3 of the third counter that measures clock pulses to 0 (step S13). As a result, the count value t3 represents the elapsed time from when signal SG1 changed from low level to high level again. Next, the control unit 82 determines whether signal SG1 changed from high level to low level while signal SG2 was maintained at low level and during the period Min_1≦t3≦Max_1 (step S14). If the determination result in step S14 is "NO," the control unit 82 determines that the changes over time of signals SG1 and SG2 do not match any of the remaining patterns, and returns the process to step S2.

[0067] If the determination result of step S14 is "YES," the control unit 82 determines that the condition (h) that the signal SG1 indicates the presence of an object twice and the condition (g) that the signal SG2 does not indicate the presence of an object are satisfied. That is, the control unit 82 determines that a fourth condition including the conditions (g) and (h) is satisfied. As a result, the control unit 82 determines that the change over time of the signals SG1 and SG2 matches the pattern "D" and determines whether the precondition corresponding to the pattern "D" is satisfied. That is, the control unit 82 determines whether the state of the blower 5 is "high operation," "medium operation," or "low operation" (step S15). If the determination result of step S15 is "NO," the control unit 82 determines that the control content corresponding to the pattern "D" cannot be implemented, and the process returns to step S2.

[0068] If the determination result in step S15 is "YES", the control unit 82 implements the control content "stop air blowing or constant ventilation operation" corresponding to pattern "D" (step S16). That is, the control unit 82 controls the blower 5 in accordance with the constant ventilation function flag 91. Specifically, if the constant ventilation function flag 91 indicates "on", the control unit 82 operates the blower 5 in "constant ventilation operation". If the constant ventilation function flag 91 indicates "off", the control unit 82 stops the blower 5. After step S16, the processing returns to step S2.

[0069] If signal SG2 is identified in step S12, control unit 82 resets count value t3 to 0 (step S17). As a result, count value t3 represents the elapsed time from the timing when signal SG2 changed from low level to high level. Next, control unit 82 determines whether signal SG2 changed from high level to low level while signal SG1 was maintained at low level and during the period Min_1≦t3≦Max_1 (step S18). If the determination result in step S18 is "NO," control unit 82 determines that the changes over time of signals SG1 and SG2 do not match any of the remaining patterns, and returns the process to step S2.

[0070] If the determination result of step S18 is "YES," the control unit 82 determines that the condition (a) is satisfied: that the signal SG2 indicates the presence of an object after the signal SG1 indicates the presence of an object. Step S18 is performed when the determination results of steps S9 and S11 are "YES." Therefore, the control unit 82 determines that the following conditions are all satisfied: the condition (c) that the length of the first period during which the signal SG1 indicates the presence of an object is within a first range; the condition (d) that the length of the second period during which the signal SG2 indicates the presence of an object is within a second range; and the condition (e) that the length of the third period between the first and second periods is within a third range. That is, the control unit 82 determines that the first condition, which includes conditions (a), (c) to (e), is satisfied. As a result, the control unit 82 determines that the changes over time in the signals SG1 and SG2 match pattern "A" and determines whether the preconditions corresponding to pattern "A" are satisfied. That is, the control unit 82 determines whether the state of the fan 5 is "medium operation" or "low operation" (step S19). If the determination result in step S19 is "NO", the control unit 82 determines that the control content corresponding to pattern "A" cannot be implemented, and returns the process to step S2.

[0071] When the determination result in step S19 is "YES", the control unit 82 implements the control content "increased air volume" corresponding to pattern "A" (step S20). That is, the control unit 82 increases the air volume of the blower 5 by one step. At this time, the control unit 82 updates the set air volume data 92 so as to indicate the air volume after control. After step S20, the process returns to step S2.

[0072] In step S21, the control unit 82 determines whether or not the signal SG1 has also changed from the low level to the high level during the period of 0 ≦ t1 < Min_1. Step S21 is implemented to confirm whether there is a possibility that the change over time of the signals SG1 and SG2 matches pattern "E". When the determination result in step S21 is "NO", the control unit 82 determines that the change over time of the signals SG1 and SG2 matches pattern "F", and determines whether or not the prerequisite conditions corresponding to pattern "F" are satisfied. That is, the control unit 82 determines whether or not the state of one or more lighting devices 4 is "off" (step S22). When the determination result in step S22 is "YES", the control unit 82 implements "lighting on" corresponding to pattern "F" (step S23). That is, the control unit 82 lights one or more lighting devices 4. After step S23, the process returns to step S2.

[0073] When the determination result in step S22 is "NO", the control unit 82 determines whether or not the signal SG1 is maintained at the low level and the signal SG2 has changed from the high level to the low level during the period of Min_1 ≦ t1 ≦ Max_1 (step S24). When the determination result in step S24 is "NO", the control unit 82 determines that the change over time of the signals SG1 and SG2 does not match the remaining patterns, and returns the process to step S2.

[0074] When the determination result in step S24 is "YES", the control unit 82 resets the count value t2 to 0 (step S25). As a result, the count value t2 represents the elapsed time from the timing when the signal SG2 changed from the high level to the low level.

[0075] After step S25, the control unit 82 determines whether the signal SG1 or SG2 has changed from a low level to a high level during the period Min_2≦t2≦Max_2 (step S26). If the determination result in step S26 is "NO", the control unit 82 determines that the changes over time of the signals SG1 and SG2 do not match the remaining patterns, and returns the process to step S2.

[0076] If the determination result in step S26 is "YES", the control unit 82 identifies the signal that has changed from low level to high level (step S27).

[0077] If signal SG2 is identified in step S27, control unit 82 resets count value t3 to 0 (step S28). As a result, count value t3 represents the elapsed time from the timing when signal SG2 changed from low level to high level again. Next, control unit 82 determines whether signal SG2 changed from high level to low level while signal SG1 was maintained at low level and during the period Min_1≦t3≦Max_1 (step S29). If the determination result in step S29 is "NO," control unit 82 determines that the changes over time of signals SG1 and SG2 do not match any of the remaining patterns, and returns the process to step S2.

[0078] If the determination result in step S29 is "YES", the control unit 82 determines that the changes over time in the signals SG1 and SG2 match pattern "G", and determines whether the preconditions corresponding to pattern "G" are satisfied. That is, the control unit 82 determines whether the state of one or more lighting devices 4 is "on" (step S30). If the determination result in step S30 is "NO", the control unit 82 determines that the control content corresponding to pattern "G" cannot be implemented, and returns the process to step S2.

[0079] If the determination result in step S30 is "YES", the control unit 82 executes the control content "Turn off lights" corresponding to pattern "G" (step S31). That is, the control unit 82 turns off one or more lighting devices 4. After step S31, the process returns to step S2.

[0080] If signal SG1 is identified in step S27, control unit 82 resets count value t3 to 0 (step S32). As a result, count value t3 represents the elapsed time since signal SG1 changed from low level to high level. Next, control unit 82 determines whether signal SG1 changed from high level to low level while signal SG2 was maintained at low level and during the period Min_1≦t3≦Max_1 (step S33). If the determination result in step S33 is "NO," control unit 82 determines that the changes over time of signals SG1 and SG2 do not match any of the remaining patterns, and returns the process to step S2.

[0081] If the determination result of step S33 is "YES," the control unit 82 determines that the condition (b) that the signal SG2 indicates the presence of an object after the signal SG2 indicates the presence of an object is satisfied is met. Step S33 is performed when the determination results of steps S24 and S26 are "YES." Therefore, the control unit 82 determines that the following conditions are all satisfied: the condition (c) that the length of the first period during which the signal SG1 indicates the presence of an object is within a first range; the condition (d) that the length of the second period during which the signal SG2 indicates the presence of an object is within a second range; and the condition (e) that the length of the third period between the first period and the second period is within a third range. That is, the control unit 82 determines that the second condition including conditions (b) to (e) is satisfied. As a result, the control unit 82 determines that the change over time of the signals SG1 and SG2 matches pattern "B" and determines whether the precondition corresponding to pattern "B" is satisfied. That is, the control unit 82 determines whether the state of the fan 5 is "high operation" or "medium operation" (step S34). If the determination result in step S34 is "NO", the control unit 82 determines that the control content corresponding to pattern "B" cannot be implemented, and returns the process to step S2.

[0082] If the determination result in step S34 is "YES", the control unit 82 implements the control content "reduce air volume" corresponding to pattern "B" (step S35). That is, the control unit 82 reduces the air volume of the blower 5 by one level. At this time, the control unit 82 updates the set air volume data 92 to indicate the air volume after the control. After step S35, the process returns to step S2.

[0083] If the answer is YES in step S6 or YES in step S21, the process proceeds to step S36. In step S36, the control unit 82 resets the count value t4 of the fourth counter that measures clock pulses to 0. The count value t4 represents the time that has elapsed since both signals SG1 and SG2 went high.

[0084] Next, the control unit 82 determines whether the signals SG1 and SG2 maintain a high level until t4≧Min_3 (step S37). If the determination result in step S37 is "NO", the control unit 82 determines that the changes over time of the signals SG1 and SG2 do not match any of the patterns, and returns the process to step S2.

[0085] If the determination result in step S37 is "YES", the control unit 82 determines that the changes over time in the signals SG1 and SG2 match pattern "E", and executes the control content "switching the constant ventilation function on and off" corresponding to pattern "E" (step S38). Specifically, the control unit 82 updates the constant ventilation function flag 91 from "on" to "off" or from "off" to "on".

[0086] After step S38, the control unit 82 determines whether the state of the fan 5 is "air blowing stopped" and whether the updated constant ventilation function flag indicates "on" (step S39). If the determination result of step S39 is "YES", the control unit 82 operates the fan 5 in "constant ventilation operation" (step S40). After step S40, the process returns to step S2. If the determination result of step S39 is "NO", the process returns to step S2.

[0087] <Variation 1> The size of the areas 30a, 30b targeted by the sensors 3a, 3b for detecting the presence or absence of an object may be adjustable in response to instructions from a user or contractor. As described above, the signal generator 33 outputs a high-level signal when the time difference between the timing at which the light projector 31 emits pulsed light and the timing at which the light receiver 32 receives reflected light equal to or greater than a predetermined amount of light is within a reference range. This time difference depends on the distance between the sensors 3a, 3b and the object. Therefore, changing the reference range also changes the size of the areas 30a, 30b targeted for detecting the presence or absence of an object.

[0088] Fig. 16 is a diagram showing the configuration of a control board according to Modification 1. As shown in Fig. 16, a control board 8A according to Modification 1 differs from the control board 8 shown in Fig. 3 in that it includes a communication unit 83 and an adjustment unit 84.

[0089] The communication unit 83 communicates with an external terminal 9 via a wired or wireless connection. The terminal 9 is, for example, a smartphone or a tablet used by a user or an installer of the range hood 10.

[0090] The adjustment unit 84 is configured by, for example, a processor. The adjustment unit 84 adjusts the sizes of the regions 30a and 30b in accordance with an instruction received by the communication unit 83 from the terminal 9. Specifically, the adjustment unit 84 selects a reference range to be used from a plurality of predetermined reference ranges, and sets the selected reference range to the sensors 3a and 3b.

[0091] This allows the user or the implementing agency to adjust the sizes of the regions 30a and 30b by operating the terminal 9. For example, the implementing agency may select a reference range that is suitable for the height of the user.

[0092] <Variation 2> The speed at which the user's hands move varies from person to person, so the definition information 90 may be updated depending on the user.

[0093] Fig. 17 is a diagram showing the configuration of a control board according to Modification 2. As shown in Fig. 17, a control board 8B according to Modification 2 differs from the control board 8 shown in Fig. 3 in that it includes a communication unit 83 and an update unit 85. As in Modification 1, the communication unit 83 communicates with an external terminal 9 via wired or wireless communication.

[0094] The update unit 85 is configured by, for example, a processor. The update unit 85 updates the definition information 90 stored in the storage unit 81 in response to an instruction received by the communication unit 83 from the terminal 9. For example, the update unit 85 updates the lower limit values ​​and upper limit values ​​of the first to twelfth ranges that define the conditions satisfied by a pattern.

[0095] The control board 8B may include an adjustment unit 84, similar to the control board 8A according to the first modification.

[0096] <Variation 3> The control content defined by the definition information 90 is not limited to the examples shown in Figures 4 and 5. For example, the light intensity of one or more lighting devices 4 may be variable, and the definition information 90 may define control to change the light intensity of one or more lighting devices 4 for one or more patterns. The light intensity of one or more lighting devices 4 may be selected from a plurality of levels (e.g., "bright," "medium," and "dark"), for example.

[0097] The definition information 90 may define a control content "increase light intensity" corresponding to a certain pattern (e.g., pattern "A" or "B") and a control content "decrease light intensity" corresponding to another pattern (e.g., pattern "B" or "A"). The control content "increase light intensity" is a control to increase the light intensity of one or more lighting devices 4 by one step. The control content "decrease light intensity" is a control to decrease the light intensity of one or more lighting devices 4 by one step. For example, when the light intensity of one or more lighting devices 4 is "medium" or "dark," the control unit 82 increases the light intensity of one or more lighting devices 4 by one step in response to the change over time of the signals SG1 and SG2 matching pattern "A." When the light intensity of one or more lighting devices 4 is "bright" or "medium," the control unit 82 decreases the light intensity of one or more lighting devices 4 by one step in response to the change over time of the signals SG1 and SG2 matching pattern "B."

[0098] Alternatively, the range hood 10 may have a timer function, and the definition information 90 may define control related to the timer function corresponding to one or more patterns. The timer function is a function that stops the blower 5 from blowing air when a set time has elapsed. The set time is selected, for example, from a plurality of specified times (e.g., "0 minutes," "5 minutes," "10 minutes," and "15 minutes"). Note that "0 minutes" indicates that the timer function is disabled. Control related to the timer function includes "increase set time," which increases the set time by one step, and "decrease time," which decreases the set time by one step.

[0099] The definition information 90 may define a control content "increase the set time" corresponding to a certain pattern (e.g., pattern "A" or "B"), and a control content "decrease the set time" corresponding to another pattern (e.g., pattern "B" or "A"). For example, when the set time is any of "0 minutes," "5 minutes," and "10 minutes," the control unit 82 increases the set time by one step in response to the change over time of the signals SG1 and SG2 matching pattern "A." When the set time is any of "5 minutes," "10 minutes," and "15 minutes," the control unit 82 decreases the set time by one step in response to the change over time of the signals SG1 and SG2 matching pattern "B."

[0100] <Variation 4> The multiple patterns defined by the definition information 90 are not limited to the examples shown in Figures 4 and 5. For example, the multiple patterns may include a pattern in which only the signal SG1 indicates the presence of an object three or more times. Similarly, the multiple patterns may include a pattern in which only the signal SG2 indicates the presence of an object three or more times.

[0101] <Variation 5> The correspondence between the patterns and the control contents is not limited to the examples shown in Figures 4 and 5, and may be interchanged as appropriate. For example, the control content "start fan" may be assigned to pattern "F", and the control content "turn on lights" may be assigned to pattern "A".

[0102] <Variation 6> FIG. 18 is a perspective view showing a range hood according to Modification 6. As shown in FIG. 18, sensors 3a and 3b are arranged horizontally at a predetermined distance from each other on the front surface 2a of the hood section 2. Sensor 3a outputs a signal SG1 indicating the presence or absence of an object in region 30c in front of the hood section 2. Sensor 3b outputs a signal SG2 indicating the presence or absence of an object in region 30d in front of the hood section 2. Region 30c is an example of a "first region" (or "second region") in the present disclosure. Region 30d is an example of a "second region" (or "first region") in the present disclosure.

[0103] According to the sixth modification, the user can make the range hood 10 perform a desired operation by performing a non-contact operation in front of the hood portion 2.

[0104] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered to be illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims, not by the above description, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0105] 1 main body case, 2 hood section, 2a front, 2b bottom, 3a, 3b sensors, 4, 4a, 4b lighting devices, 5 blower, 6 rectifier plate, 7 user interface section, 7a to 7d indicator lights, 8, 8A, 8B control board, 9 terminal, 10 range hood, 30a to 30d areas, 31 light-emitting section, 32 light-receiving section, 33 signal generation section, 60 gap, 81 memory section, 82 control section, 83 communication section, 84 adjustment section, 85 update section, 90 definition information, 91 constant ventilation function flag, 92 set air volume data.

Claims

1. A range hood, a main body case that houses the blower; a hood portion that collects gas rising from below and guides it to the blower; a first sensor that outputs a first signal that indicates the presence or absence of an object in a first region below or in front of the hood portion; a second sensor that outputs a second signal that indicates the presence or absence of an object in a second region below or in front of the hood portion; a control unit that controls the blower, the control unit increases the air volume of the fan in response to the first signal and the second signal satisfying a first condition, and decreases the air volume of the fan in response to the first signal and the second signal satisfying a second condition; the first condition includes a condition that the second signal indicates the presence of the object after the first signal indicates the presence of the object; The range hood, wherein the second condition includes a condition that the first signal indicates the presence of the object after the second signal indicates the presence of the object.

2. the first condition and the second condition further include a condition that a length of a first period during which the first signal indicates the presence of the object is within a first range, a length of a second period during which the second signal indicates the presence of the object is within a second range, and a length of a third period between the first period and the second period is within a third range; The range hood according to claim 1 , wherein the upper limit values ​​of the first range, the second range, and the third range are 1 second or less.

3. The range hood of claim 2 , further comprising an updating unit that updates at least one of the first range, the second range, and the third range.

4. the control unit starts blowing air by the blower in response to the first signal and the second signal satisfying a third condition; The range hood of claim 1 , wherein the third condition includes a condition that the first signal indicates the presence of the object and a condition that the second signal does not indicate the presence of the object.

5. the control unit stops the blower in response to the first signal and the second signal satisfying a fourth condition; The range hood of claim 1 or 4, wherein the fourth condition includes a condition that the first signal indicates the presence of the object a specified number of times, and a condition that the second signal does not indicate the presence of the object.

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