Snow melting equipment

Abstract

To provide a snow melting device equipped with a display unit capable of suppressing a decrease in visibility. [Solution] The snow melting device is an irradiation type snow melting device that melts snow and ice by irradiating it with infrared rays, and comprises a housing, a heat source disposed inside the housing that emits infrared rays, and a display unit disposed in close proximity to a mounting surface on the outer surface of the housing that is configured to receive heat from the heat source and have its temperature rise.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an irradiation type snow melting device.

Background Art

[0002] An irradiation type snow melting device that melts snow by irradiating infrared rays (especially far infrared rays) is known (for example, Patent Document 1). The snow melting device can be installed along a road or the like in a cold region, for example, and can melt snow and ice or frost on the road surface by irradiating infrared rays from above onto the road surface.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In cold regions, not only snow accumulation and freezing on the road surface but also poor visibility due to snowfall can occur. Therefore, traffic obstacles and the like are likely to occur, and from the perspective of safety, a wide range of measures including snow melting are required. As part of the measures, display of information such as warnings and traffic information may be required. However, snow or ice may adhere to the display surface of the display, or the display function may deteriorate at low temperatures, making the display difficult to visually recognize.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to solve the above problems and provide a snow melting device provided with a display unit that is easy to visually recognize even in a cold environment.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] To achieve the above objective, a snow melting device according to one aspect of the present invention is an irradiation-type snow melting device that melts snow and ice by irradiating infrared rays, comprising a housing, a heat source disposed inside the housing that emits infrared rays, and a display unit disposed in close proximity to a mounting surface on the outer surface of the housing that is configured to receive heat from the heat source and have its temperature rise. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a snow melting device equipped with a display unit that is easily visible even in cold environments. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This is a schematic perspective view of a snow melting device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a bottom view of the snow melting device. [Figure 3] Figure 1 is a bottom view of the snow melting device with the protective wire mesh removed. [Figure 4] Figure 2 is an end view of the line IV-IV shown. [Figure 5] Figure 2 is an end view of the VV line. [Figure 6] This is a schematic perspective view of the snow melting device 100 shown in Figure 1, with the display unit tilted. [Figure 7] Figure 6 shows a schematic cross-sectional view along the line VII-VII. [Figure 8] This is a schematic diagram showing an example of wiring for a snow melting system. [Figure 9] This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of snow melting equipment application. [Figure 10A] This is a schematic perspective view of the snow melting device of Modification 1. [Figure 10B] Figure 10A is a schematic perspective view of the snow melting device shown when the display unit is tilted. [Figure 11A] This is a schematic perspective view of the snow melting device of modified example 2. [Figure 11B] This is a schematic perspective view of the snow melting device shown in Figure 11A, with the display unit tilted. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] Embodiments of this disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. However, this disclosure is not limited by these embodiments. Furthermore, substantially identical components are denoted by the same reference numerals in the drawings, and redundant descriptions have been omitted where appropriate. For illustrative purposes, the dimensions of elements in the drawings may be exaggerated and are not necessarily to scale.

[0010] Furthermore, for the sake of clarity, the following terms will be used to indicate directions such as "up," "down," "right," "left," and "side," assuming the conditions of normal use. However, this does not mean that the usage conditions of the snow melting device relating to this disclosure are limited. Also, "orthogonal" means orthogonal or nearly orthogonal, including cases where it is substantially orthogonal considering the range of realistic variation. Similarly, "parallel" means parallel or nearly parallel, including cases where it is substantially parallel considering the range of realistic variation.

[0011] In the diagrams described below, mutually orthogonal X, Y, and Z axes are schematically shown for reference. In the following description, when simply referred to as the X direction, Y direction, or Z direction, it refers to the respective axis direction, including the two opposite directions (e.g., -X direction and +X direction).

[0012] 《Embodiment》 <Overall configuration of the snow melting system> The overall configuration of the snow melting device according to an embodiment of the present invention will be explained using Figures 1 to 5. The snow melting device of this embodiment is an irradiation type snow melting device that melts snow, ice, and frost by irradiating them with infrared rays.

[0013] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a snow melting device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a schematic bottom view of the snow melting device of FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a schematic bottom view of the snow melting device of FIG. 1 with the protective wire mesh disposed at the irradiation port removed. FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV shown in FIG. 2. FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line V-V shown in FIG. 2.

[0014] As shown in FIG. 1, the snow melting device 100 of the present embodiment includes a housing 2, a heat source disposed inside the housing 2 that emits infrared rays, and a display unit 3 attached to the outer surface of the housing 2. The heat source is, for example, a tubular heater 7 (FIG. 3).

[0015] As shown in FIG. 2, an irradiation port 20 for irradiating infrared rays from the heat source to the outside is provided at the bottom of the snow melting device 100. A lattice-shaped protective net 5 is installed at the irradiation port 20.

[0016] The snow melting device 100 can be installed along a road, such as at an intersection. In this case, the snow melting device 100 is installed, for example, at a predetermined height (for example, about 2 m to 3 m) from the road surface so as to irradiate infrared rays 10 from the irradiation port 20 toward the road surface. In FIGS. 1, 4, and 5, a state where the snow melting device 100 is installed such that the irradiation port 20 faces the vertically downward direction G and the display surface of the display unit 3 faces generally the horizontal direction is illustrated.

[0017] In the present embodiment, the housing 2 has a shape that is long in one direction (here, the X direction). The cross-section of the housing 2 orthogonal to the X direction is generally trapezoidal, and the width becomes wider toward the bottom (here, in the -Z direction). The housing 2 is made of a metal such as aluminum, for example, and the metal surface is coated with an acrylic resin.

[0018] In the example shown in Figures 1 and 2, the housing 2 has a top surface 21, a bottom surface 25, two end surfaces 24 located opposite each other in the X direction, and two side surfaces 22 located opposite each other in the Y direction. The bottom surface 25 of the housing 2 is provided with an opening that functions as an illumination port 20. The illumination port 20 is, for example, a rectangle that is long in the X direction. Each side surface 22 consists of a first side surface 221 connected to the bottom surface 25 and a second side surface 222 connecting the first side surface 221 and the top surface 21. In this example, the top surface 21 and the bottom surface 25 are perpendicular to the Z direction, the end surfaces 24 are perpendicular to the X direction, and the first side surface 221 is perpendicular to the Y direction. The housing 2 is provided with a plurality of slits (through holes) 2p to suppress the temperature rise inside the housing 2 and improve heat dissipation.

[0019] The display unit 3 is positioned close to a surface 23 on the outer surface of the housing 2 that is configured to receive heat from a heat source and have its temperature rise (hereinafter referred to as the "mounting surface"). In this embodiment, one of the first side surfaces 221 of the housing 2 is used as the mounting surface 23. The display unit 3 is mounted, for example, by screws, so that the back surface of the display unit 3 faces the mounting surface 23.

[0020] In this specification, "the display unit is in close proximity to the mounting surface" means that the display unit 3 is positioned relative to the mounting surface 23 so that it can be warmed by heat dissipation from the mounting surface 23. Furthermore, it is sufficient that at least a portion of the display unit 3 is in close proximity to the mounting surface 23. In Figure 4, the back surface of the display unit 3 and the mounting surface 23 are separated by a gap (space) S5, but they may be in direct contact.

[0021] In this embodiment, the display unit 3 is mounted on the mounting surface 23 of the housing 2 so as to be tiltable. In the example shown in Figures 1 to 5, the back surface of the plate-shaped display unit 3 is positioned along the mounting surface 23, but as will be described later, the display unit 3 may be positioned at an angle to the mounting surface 23 (see Figures 6 and 7).

[0022] As shown in Figure 1, the snow melting device 100 further comprises a terminal box 4 and a fixing part 6 for installing the snow melting device 100 in a predetermined position.

[0023] The terminal box 4 is mounted on the outer surface (in this case, the end face 24) of the housing 2. The terminal box 4 is provided with a hole 4p (Figure 2) for routing an external cable for connection to an external power supply. Power is supplied to the heater 7 and the display unit 3, for example, from an external power supply via an external cable. In Figure 1, the terminal box 4 is mounted on the outer surface of the housing 2, but it may also be mounted on the inside of the housing 2.

[0024] The fixing part 6 is attached to the outer surface (in this case, the top surface 21) of the housing 2. In this embodiment, the fixing part 6 is configured to allow adjustment of the orientation of the snow melting device 100 (i.e., the orientation of the irradiation port 20). In the example shown in Figure 1, the fixing part 6 comprises two first blankets 61 that are spaced apart in the X direction on the top surface 21 and extend upward from the top surface 21, and a second blanket 62 whose ends are each attached to the two first blankets 61. When viewed along the X direction, the second blanket 62 is rotatable relative to the first blankets 61. This allows the orientation of the snow melting device 100 to be adjusted by changing the orientation of the top surface of the second blanket 62.

[0025] <Internal structure of snow melting system> As shown in Figures 3 to 5, the inside of the housing 2 contains a heat source, a heater (in this case, a tubular heater) 7, a reflector 8, and an inner frame 11.

[0026] The heater 7 is positioned inside the housing 2, extending in the longitudinal direction (X direction) of the housing 2. The heater 7 comprises a rod-shaped heating element and a heater tube surrounding the heating element. The heater 7 may be a near-infrared heater or a far-infrared heater. Examples of such heaters include carbon heaters using carbon fiber as the heating element, halogen heaters using halogen light bulbs as the heating element, as well as ceramic heaters and quartz tube heaters.

[0027] The reflector 8 is configured to reflect infrared radiation emitted from the heater 7 towards the irradiation port 20 and guide it to the irradiation port 20. The reflector 8 is a metal plate such as an aluminum plate. In this embodiment, as shown in Figures 3 and 5, the reflector 8 comprises a first reflector 8m extending in the X direction and a pair of second reflectors 8s located at both ends of the first reflector 8m. When viewed along the X direction, the first reflector 8m is generally U-shaped (or V-shaped) with an opening that gradually widens as it extends downwards. The tubular heater 7 extends so as to penetrate the space S1 defined by the inner surface of the reflector 8 in the X direction (in this case, penetrating the two opposing second reflectors 8s).

[0028] As shown in Figure 4, when viewed from the X direction, the infrared rays 10 guided to the irradiation port 20 by the reflector 8 are emitted from the irradiation port 20 outwards with a certain degree of spread around a hypothetical direction D (hereinafter referred to as the "irradiation direction") that is directed from the heater 7 towards the center of the irradiation port 20.

[0029] As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the inner frame 11 is positioned inside the housing 2, between the reflector 8 and the housing 2. The inner frame 11 is, for example, a metal frame. The inner frame 11 has a shape that is elongated in the X direction (here longer than the reflector 8). In this example, the inner frame 11 extends between both end faces 24 of the housing 2. When viewed along the X direction, the inner frame 11 has a roughly trapezoidal or dome shape that is slightly smaller than the housing 2. In this example, the lower end of the inner frame 11 is fixed to the lower surface 25 of the housing 2, and the upper end is fixed to the top of the reflector 8.

[0030] In this embodiment, the inner frame 11 is arranged to define spaces S2 to S4 inside the housing 2.

[0031] As shown in Figure 4, when viewed from the X direction, space S2 is defined outside space S1 by the outer surface of the reflector 8 (first reflector 8m) and the inner surface of the inner frame 11. Space S3 is defined outside space S2 by the outer surface of the inner frame 11 and the inner surface of the housing 2. Space S3 extends to cover space S1 from above and the sides. Space S3 communicates with the external space through a plurality of slits 2p provided in the housing 2. Space S3 is adjacent to the gap (space) S5 between the display unit 3 and the mounting surface 23 via the mounting surface 23, and communicates with space S5 through slits provided in the mounting surface 23.

[0032] As shown in Figure 5, a space S4 is defined at both ends of the housing 2 in the X direction by the inner frame 11, the reflector 8 (second reflector 8s), and the housing 2. In space S4, the ends of the tubular heater 7 are fixed to the inner frame 11. Space S4 may be in communication with space S2.

[0033] When the snow melting device 100 is operated, the temperature of the reflector 8 rises due to the heat from the heater 7. Receiving this heat, the temperatures of the inner frame 11 and the housing 2 also rise. In this example, the heat from the heat source is transferred to the reflector 8, the inner frame 11, and the housing 2 in that order by heat conduction and radiation, and is released to the outside from the housing 2. By interposing the inner frame 11 and spaces S2 and S3 between the reflector 8 and the housing 2, temperature unevenness can be reduced (heat equalization). Heat is supplied to the display unit 3 by radiation from the housing 2 to the back side of the display unit 3 and by heat conduction through the connection between the display unit 3 and the housing 2, thereby raising the temperature of the display unit 3.

[0034] <Display Unit Configuration> As shown in Figures 1 and 4, the display unit 3 comprises, for example, a sheet-shaped or plate-shaped display unit 31 and a support frame 32 that supports the display unit 31.

[0035] The display unit 31 is, for example, an LED display unit. The display unit 31 may be configured to display pre-recorded information (standalone type), or it may be configured to display information transmitted via a network such as a wired LAN or wireless LAN (network type). As an example, information can also be transmitted from a smartphone using Bluetooth® via an app. The display unit 31 is not limited to an LED display unit, but may be other displays such as liquid crystal displays or organic EL displays.

[0036] The support frame 32 is, for example, a metal frame. The support frame 32 has an opening 32p that exposes the display surface of the display unit 31. Preferably, the support frame 32 is configured to cover the entire back and sides of the display unit 31. This protects the display unit 31 from snow and ice and enhances the heat retention function of the display unit 31.

[0037] As an example, the support frame 32 comprises a front panel and a rear panel located on the mounting surface 23 side of the housing 2, relative to the front panel. The front and rear panels are rectangular in shape, slightly larger than the display unit 31, and are arranged to face each other with the display unit 31 in between. The front panel is provided with an opening 32p that is positioned to expose at least a portion of the display surface of the display unit 31. The periphery of these panels may be bent towards the rear and connected to each other, or they may be connected to each other via a separate member. In addition, the opening 32p may be provided with a cover (e.g., a transparent acrylic plate) to protect the display surface of the display unit 31. This can prevent snow from directly adhering to the display surface.

[0038] <Inclined structure of the display unit> Figure 6 is a schematic perspective view of the snow melting device 100 shown in Figure 1, with the display unit tilted. Figure 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view along the line VII-VII shown in Figure 6.

[0039] Figures 6 and 7 illustrate a configuration in which the snow melting device 100 is tilted from the state shown in Figure 1, with the irradiation port 20 positioned diagonally downwards.

[0040] As shown in Figure 7, the irradiation direction D of the snow melting device 100 is inclined with respect to the vertically downward direction (gravity direction) G. The angle β of the irradiation direction D with respect to the vertically downward direction G is called the "irradiation angle". The irradiation angle β can be adjusted, for example, by the fixing part 6. By adjusting the irradiation angle β of the snow melting device 100, it becomes possible to irradiate the area where snow melting is needed with high-energy infrared rays, thereby melting snow and ice more efficiently.

[0041] As shown in Figure 7, the display unit 3 is mounted at an angle to the mounting surface 23. The angle α between the mounting surface 23 and the back surface of the display unit 3 is called the "angle of inclination". In this embodiment, the display unit 3 is configured so that the angle of inclination α with respect to the mounting surface 23 can be adjusted. In the illustrated example, the angle of inclination α is adjusted, for example, so that the display surface of the display unit 3 faces approximately horizontally.

[0042] The display unit 3 has an upper end portion 3a and a lower end portion 3b located on the opposite side of the upper end portion 3a in the Z direction, when viewed from the normal direction of the mounting surface 23 (in this case, the Y direction). In this embodiment, the display unit 3 is configured so that, with the lower end portion 3b fixed to the mounting surface 23, the upper end portion 3a can be rotated in a direction away from the mounting surface 23 (inclination direction) E. This makes it possible to bring the display unit 3 closer to the mounting surface 23 while tilting the display unit 3 at an arbitrary inclination angle α, thereby changing the orientation of the display surface. For example, the display surface may be tilted downwards from the horizontal direction so that it is easier to see from the road.

[0043] In the example shown in Figure 7, the lower end portion 3b of the display unit 3 is fixed (screwed) to the housing 2 using a mounting member 16 such as an L-shaped bracket. The upper end portion 3a of the display unit 3 is attached to the housing 2 via an extendable arm 17. The arm 17 consists of a mounting bracket 171 fixed to the housing 2 and at least one (two in this case) flat connecting brackets 172 and 173. The connecting bracket 172 is rotatably attached to the mounting bracket 171, and the connecting bracket 173 is rotatably attached to the connecting bracket 172 and the support frame 32. By folding the connecting brackets 172 and 173 in the same plane (YZ plane) or extending them in a V-shape or in a nearly straight line, the arm 17 can be extended or retracted according to the inclination angle α of the display unit 3.

[0044] The tilt angle α of the display unit 3 is not particularly limited, but may be adjustable in the range of 0° to 45°, preferably 0° to 30°. If the tilt angle α is 45° or less, preferably 30° or less, outside air is less likely to enter the space S5 between the back of the display unit 3 and the housing 2, making it easier to maintain the temperature of the space S5 and the display unit 3.

[0045] The orientation of the illumination port 20 and the display surface are not limited to the example shown in Figure 6, and can be adjusted independently of each other as appropriate. Furthermore, the relationship between the orientation of the illumination port 20 and the display surface and the vertically downward direction G is not limited to the example shown, and can be adjusted as appropriate depending on the application and installation location.

[0046] <Effects> The snow melting device 100 of this embodiment comprises a housing 2, a heat source that emits infrared rays and is located inside the housing 2, and a display unit 3. The display unit 3 is located close to a mounting surface 23 on the outer surface of the housing 2, which is configured to receive heat from the heat source and have its temperature rise.

[0047] According to the above configuration, the display unit 3 can be warmed by utilizing the heat dissipated from the housing 2. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the display unit 3 from being cooled by, for example, the outside air, which reduces its display function, or from snow accumulating or freezing on the display surface, which reduces the visibility of the display. According to the snow melting device 100 of this embodiment, snow and ice on the ground can be melted by infrared irradiation, and necessary information (warnings, traffic information, weather information, guidance, etc.) can be provided by an easily visible display. For this reason, for example, safety measures against snowfall and freezing in cold regions can be further strengthened.

[0048] Thus, according to this embodiment, the snow melting device 100 can be equipped with a display unit 3 that is easily visible even in cold environments by utilizing the heat dissipation from the housing 2 of the snow melting device 100. Therefore, a novel snow melting device 100 is provided that is different from conventional snow melting devices (for example, Patent Document 1).

[0049] In the snow melting device 100 of this embodiment, the display unit 3 is configured to allow adjustment of the inclination angle α with respect to the mounting surface 23 of the housing 2. With this configuration, the orientation of the display unit 3 (display surface) can be adjusted independently of the irradiation direction D of the snow melting device 100. Therefore, a more easily visible display can be provided regardless of the installation position or condition of the snow melting device 100. This will be explained in detail below.

[0050] The orientation of the display surface for optimal visibility can vary depending on the installation location and condition of the snow melting device 100. As an example, as mentioned above with reference to Figures 6 and 7, the snow melting device 100 may be installed at an angle relative to the vertically downward direction G in order to direct the irradiation port 20 towards the area where snow melting is required. However, when the snow melting device 100 is installed at an angle, the mounting surface 23 of the housing 2 may face upward. In this case, with the display unit 3 positioned along the mounting surface 23, the display on the display unit 3 becomes difficult to see from below the snow melting device 100 (for example, from pedestrians on the road or drivers of vehicles). Also, when the display surface of the display unit 3 faces upward, snow is more likely to adhere to the display surface.

[0051] In contrast, according to this embodiment, the inclination angle α between the display unit 3 and the mounting surface 23 of the snow melting device 100 can be adjusted. This allows the inclination angle α of the display surface of the display unit 3 to be adjusted so that it is easily visible to pedestrians or so that snow does not easily adhere to it (for example, parallel to the vertical direction). Therefore, the visibility of the display can be further improved.

[0052] In the snow melting device 100 of this embodiment, the display unit 3 is mounted so as to be tiltable relative to the mounting surface 23 by fixing its lower end portion 3b to the mounting surface 23 and rotating its upper end portion 3a in a direction E away from the mounting surface 23. With this configuration, even when the display unit 3 is tilted, the distance between the lower end portion 3b of the display unit 3 and the mounting surface 23 is kept small, making it easier to warm the display unit 3 by heat dissipation from the mounting surface 23.

[0053] The snow melting device 100 of this embodiment further comprises a reflector 8 disposed inside the housing 2 and an inner frame 11 located between the reflector 8 and the housing 2. The reflector 8 is configured to reflect infrared rays from a heat source (heater 7) in a predetermined direction. The space S3 defined between the inner frame 11 and the housing 2 is adjacent to the space S5 between the display unit 3 and the mounting surface 23 via the mounting surface 23.

[0054] According to the above configuration, the inner frame 11 and the space S3 between the housing 2 and the inner frame 11 can reduce the uneven distribution of heat (temperature distribution) emitted from the back side of the reflector 8 (heat uniformity). As a result, the entire surface of the display unit 3 can be heated to a more appropriate temperature and more evenly. For example, it is possible to prevent a decrease in display function due to localized high (or low) temperatures in a part of the display unit 3.

[0055] In this embodiment, the mounting surface 23 of the housing 2 is provided with at least one slit (through hole) 23p that connects space S3 and space S5. This allows a portion of the air in space S3, which has been heated by the inner frame 11 and the housing 2, to be sent into space S5 between the display unit 3 and the mounting surface 23, thereby more efficiently raising the temperature of the display unit 3.

[0056] In the snow melting device 100 of this embodiment, the mounting surface 23 is configured to have higher heat dissipation capabilities than the opposing surface of the housing 2 that faces the mounting surface 23 (in this case, the first side surface 221 on the +Y side). Specifically, at least one slit (through hole) 23p is provided on the mounting surface 23 of the housing 2, while no such through hole is provided on the opposing surface. This configuration makes it easier to release heat from inside the housing 2 from the mounting surface 23 side than from the opposing surface. Therefore, heat can be supplied more efficiently to the display unit 3 side, thereby improving the heat retention function of the display unit 3.

[0057] The specific configuration for making the heat dissipation performance of the mounting surface 23 higher than that of the opposing surface is not limited to the above configuration. If slits are provided on both the mounting surface 23 and the opposing surface, the total opening area (or opening area ratio) of the mounting surface 23 due to the slits 23p may be larger than the total opening area (or opening area ratio) of the opposing surface. As another example, the materials used for the mounting surface 23 and the opposing surface may be different, such as the presence or absence of coating and the coating thickness, to make the thermal conductivity and / or infrared emissivity of the mounting surface 23 higher than that of the opposing surface. As yet another example, the heat dissipation area of ​​the mounting surface 23 may be increased compared to that of the opposing surface by forming irregularities on the mounting surface 23.

[0058] In the snow melting device 100 of this embodiment, the housing 2 is made of metal, for example. Preferably, at least the portion of the housing 2 including the mounting surface 23 is made of a metal having a higher thermal conductivity (e.g., 100 W / m·k or more) than that of stainless steel (e.g., 16 W / m·k for SUS304), such as aluminum or an aluminum alloy. If at least the portion including the mounting surface 23 is made of the above metal, the heat dissipation characteristics from the mounting surface 23 of the housing 2 can be improved, so that the display unit 3 can be heated more efficiently. The entire housing 2 may also be made of the above metal.

[0059] At least a portion of the housing 2 including the mounting surface 23 may be made of a metal with a higher thermal conductivity than stainless steel, and the surface of the metal may be coated with a resin with a higher infrared emissivity than that metal. The entire surface of the housing 2 (including the outer and inner surfaces) may be coated with the above resin. Examples of resin materials included in the coating layer include acrylic resin, fluororesin, epoxy resin, and urethane resin. Preferably, an acrylic resin with excellent weather resistance is used. The infrared emissivity of the coating layer is, for example, 0.8 to 0.95 (ε). When the above resin coating layer is formed on at least a portion including the mounting surface 23, the coating layer easily diffuses (emits) infrared rays on the mounting surface 23 of the housing 2. Therefore, especially when the display unit 3 is tilted, heat can be supplied more efficiently to the back of the display unit 3 by radiation from the mounting surface 23.

[0060] The housing 2 may be made of aluminum. This improves heat dissipation characteristics and the heat retention function of the display unit 3, while also reducing the weight of the snow melting device 100. Furthermore, if the surface of the aluminum is coated with, for example, acrylic resin, it is possible to improve the heat radiation of the housing 2 while suppressing corrosion and deterioration of the aluminum.

[0061] The portion of the housing 2 including the mounting surface 23 may be configured such that its thermal conductivity and / or infrared emissivity are higher than that of the other portions. This allows heat from the heat source to be more easily released from the mounting surface 23, enabling the display unit 3 to be heated more efficiently.

[0062] The inner frame 11, like the housing 2, is made of a metal with a higher thermal conductivity than stainless steel (e.g., aluminum), and may be coated with a resin (acrylic resin) that has a higher infrared radiation emission than the metal. This further enhances heat dissipation characteristics and reduces heat unevenness (heat uniformity). In addition, the resin coating allows the heat from the inner frame 11 to be radiated more efficiently towards the housing 2.

[0063] The support frame 32 that supports the display unit 31 is preferably made of a metal with higher thermal conductivity than stainless steel (e.g., aluminum). The metal surface of the support frame 32 may be coated with a resin with higher infrared radiation than the metal (e.g., acrylic resin). This makes it easier for the support frame 32 to absorb and radiate the heat radiated from the mounting surface 23, thereby heating the display unit 3 more efficiently.

[0064] <Wiring for snow melting system>

[0065] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the wiring of the snow melting device 100. Figure 9 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the application of the snow melting device 100.

[0066] As shown in Figure 8, the snow melting device 100 includes a display unit 3 and a control unit 40 that controls the on / off switching of the heat source. The control unit 40 is housed in a terminal box 4 (Figure 1). The control unit 40 includes a heater on / off switch SW1, a display on / off switch SW2, and an AC / DC converter 41.

[0067] The heater on / off switch SW1 is connected between the power terminals of the heater 7 and the external power supply (e.g., AC200V) 42, and is configured to control the power supply from the external power supply 42 to the heater 7. The display on / off switch SW2 is connected between the power terminals of the display unit 31 and the external power supply 42, and is configured to control the power supply from the external power supply 42 to the display unit 31. If necessary, an AC / DC converter (AC200V / DC5V) 41 is connected between the power terminals of the display unit 31 and the display on / off switch SW2.

[0068] The heater on / off switch SW1 and the display on / off switch SW2 are controlled independently of each other. With this configuration, even when the heater 7 is operating, the display unit 3 can be turned off to save power when the display is not needed. In addition, the display unit 3 can display information even in the summer when snow melting is not needed, making it possible to use the snow melting device 100 all year round.

[0069] These switches SW1 and SW2 may be remotely controllable. This allows the switches SW1 and SW2 to be controlled independently from the road using a remote control 110, as illustrated in Figure 9, with the snow melting device 100 installed at a predetermined height.

[0070] (Variation 1) The snow melting device of Modification 1 differs from the snow melting device 100 shown in Figure 1 in that it further includes an upper cover that covers the gap (space S5) between the display unit and the housing from above when the display unit is tilted.

[0071] Figure 10A is a schematic perspective view of the snow melting device of Modification 1. Figure 10B is a schematic perspective view of the snow melting device shown in Figure 10A when the display unit is tilted.

[0072] The housing 2 and display unit 3 of the snow melting device 101 in Modification 1 have the same shape as the housing and display unit of the snow melting device 100 shown in Figure 1. However, the inclination of the second side surface 22 of the housing 2 is gentler than that of the snow melting device 100. Also, the length of the display unit 3 and the housing 2 in the X direction is approximately equal. The display unit 3 is mounted such that its end face in the X direction is flush with the end face 24 of the housing 2.

[0073] The snow melting device 101 includes an upper cover 18 positioned to straddle the side surface 22 of the housing 2 and the display unit 3.

[0074] In this modified example, the upper cover 18 is configured to expand and contract according to the inclination angle α of the display unit 3. When the upper end portion 3a of the display unit 3 is rotated in the direction away from the mounting surface 23 (inclination direction) E, the upper cover 18 extends roughly along the inclination direction E, thereby covering the space S5 between the upper end portion 3a and the mounting surface 23 from above.

[0075] In the example shown in Figures 10A and 10B, the upper cover 18 comprises, for example, a first metal plate 181 and a second metal plate 182 slidably attached to the first metal plate 181. The first metal plate 181 and the second metal plate 182 are, for example, rectangular flat plates. The second metal plate 182 is preferably flexible. The first metal plate 181 is fixed, for example, by screws, to the portion of the outer surface of the housing 2 located above the mounting surface 23 (here, the second side surface 222). The second metal plate 182 is fixed, for example, by screws, to the upper end 3a of the display unit 3 (here, the upper side surface of the support frame 32) and extends between the first metal plate 181 and the housing 2.

[0076] The upper cover 18 is expandable and contractible by varying the overlapping area of ​​these metal plates 181 and 182. Specifically, as shown in Figure 10A, when the display unit 3 is not tilted, the second metal plate 182 can be accommodated between the first metal plate 181 and the second side surface 22 of the housing 2, except for the lower edge fixed to the display unit 3. When the display unit 3 is tilted, as shown in Figure 10B, the second metal plate 182 slides relative to the first metal plate 181 together with the display unit 3 and is pulled out towards the display unit 3. The pulled-out second metal plate 182 is positioned to straddle the second side surface 222 and the upper end 3a of the display unit 3.

[0077] Elongated holes are formed on at least one side edge of these metal plates 181 and 182, extending in the sliding direction of the second metal plate 182. This allows the second metal plate 182 to be fixed to the first metal plate 181 with fasteners such as screws while the upper cover 18 is extended or retracted to a desired length.

[0078] This modified snow melting device 101 further includes an upper cover 18 that covers the space S5 between the display unit 3 and the mounting surface 23 from the upper end 3a side of the display unit 3 when the display unit 3 is tilted. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent snow and outside air from entering the space S5 between the display unit 3 and the housing 2 from above. As a result, it is easier to maintain the temperature inside the space S5, and the back of the display unit is less likely to get cold. Therefore, even when the display unit 3 is tilted, heat dissipated from the mounting surface 23 of the housing 2 can be supplied to the display unit 3 more efficiently.

[0079] In this modified example, the upper cover 18 is configured to expand and contract according to the inclination angle α of the display unit 3. With this configuration, even if the space S5 expands due to the inclination of the display unit 3, the upper cover 18 can be extended to cover the space S5 more reliably. In addition, since the upper cover 18 only needs to be extended to the required length, the entire device can be kept compact. Furthermore, when the inclination angle α of the display unit 3 is small or there is no inclination, the snow melting device 100 can be used with the upper cover 18 retracted. This prevents the display from becoming difficult to see or the appearance (design) from being reduced by the upper cover 18.

[0080] The upper cover 18 is preferably made of a metal with a higher thermal conductivity than stainless steel, such as an aluminum plate. This makes it easier for heat to be transferred from the outer surface of the housing 2 to the upper end 3a of the display unit 3 via the metal upper cover 18, thereby further enhancing the heat retention effect of the display unit 3.

[0081] <Modification 2> The snow melting device of Modification 2 differs from the snow melting device 101 shown in Figures 10A and 10B in that it further includes a side cover that covers the space S5 formed when the display unit is tilted, from the side of the display unit.

[0082] Figure 11A is a schematic perspective view of the snow melting device of Modification 2. Figure 11B is a schematic perspective view of the snow melting device shown in Figure 11A.

[0083] The snow melting device 102 of this modified example further includes a side cover 19 positioned to straddle the end face (right end face in this figure) 24 of the housing 2 and the side end 3c of the display unit 3. The side end 3c refers to the portion connecting the upper end 3a and the lower end 3b of the display unit 3 when viewed from the direction normal to the mounting surface 23. Although not shown, a side cover 19 is also provided on the left end face 24 of the housing 2.

[0084] In this modified example, the side cover 19 is configured to expand and contract according to the inclination angle α of the display unit 3. Here, when the upper end portion 3a of the display unit 3 is rotated in the direction away from the mounting surface 23 (inclination direction) E, the side cover 19 expands in a fan shape in the XY plane, thereby covering the space between the display unit 3 and the mounting surface 23 from the side.

[0085] In the example shown in Figures 11A and 11B, the side cover 19 comprises a third metal plate 191 and a fourth metal plate 192 slidably mounted to the third metal plate 191. These metal plates 191 and 192 have a shape that widens towards the top (generally trapezoidal). The third metal plate 191 is fixed to the end face 24 of the housing 2. The fourth metal plate 192 is fixed to the side end 3c of the display unit 3 (the right side of the support frame 32 in this figure) by, for example, screws, and is also attached to the third metal plate 191. With its lower end fixed to the third metal plate 191 (for example, by screws), the fourth metal plate 192 is rotatable relative to the third metal plate 191 by its upper end sliding along the inclination direction E.

[0086] The side cover 19 is expandable and contractible by varying the overlapping area of ​​these metal plates 191 and 192. As shown in Figure 11A, when the display unit 3 is not tilted, most of the fourth metal plate 192 is positioned on the end face 24, overlapping with the third metal plate 191. As shown in Figure 11B, when the display unit 3 is tilted, the upper end of the fourth metal plate 192 rotates in the tilting direction E along with the side end 3c of the display unit 3, and is pulled out towards the display unit 3. The pulled-out fourth metal plate 192 is positioned to straddle the end face 24 and the side end 3c of the display unit 3.

[0087] An elongated hole extending in the sliding direction is formed in the upper edge of at least one of these metal plates 191 and 192. This allows the fourth metal plate 192 to be fixed to the third metal plate 191 with fasteners such as screws while the side cover 19 is extended or retracted to a desired length.

[0088] The modified snow melting device 102 further includes a side cover 19 configured to cover the space S5 between the display unit 3 and the mounting surface 23 from the side end 3c of the display unit 3 when the display unit 3 is tilted. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent snow and outside air from entering the space S5 between the display unit 3 and the mounting surface 23 of the housing 2 from the side. In addition, by covering the space S5 from above and the side, the heat retention of the space S5 can be further enhanced. Therefore, even when the display unit 3 is tilted, heat can be supplied to the display unit 3 from the mounting surface 23 of the housing 2 more efficiently.

[0089] In this modified example, the side cover 19 is configured to expand and contract according to the tilt angle α of the display unit 3. Therefore, even if the space S5 expands due to the tilt of the display unit 3, the side cover 19 can be extended to cover the space S5. Furthermore, when the tilt angle α of the display unit 3 is small or the unit is not tilted, the side cover 19 can be made more compact. This prevents the display from becoming difficult to see or the appearance (design) from being diminished by the side cover 19.

[0090] The side cover 19 is preferably made of a metal with a higher thermal conductivity than stainless steel, such as an aluminum plate. This makes it easier for heat to be transferred from the outer surface of the housing 2 to both ends 3c of the display unit 3 via the metal side cover 19.

[0091] It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments and modifications described above, and can be implemented in various other forms.

[0092] In the above embodiment, the tilt angle α of the display unit 3 is adjustable, but the tilt angle does not have to be adjustable. The display unit may be fixed along the mounting surface or at a predetermined tilt angle relative to the mounting surface.

[0093] The shape of the housing 2, the position where the display unit 3 is attached, the position of the irradiation port 20, the shape and structure of the display unit 3, and the number of display units 3 are not limited to the illustrated example. In the above embodiment, the display unit is attached to the side surface 22 (first side surface 221) of the housing 2, but it may be attached to other surfaces of the housing (e.g., the end surface or the bottom surface). In the above embodiment, the mounting surface 23 is flat, but the entire mounting surface or part of it may be curved. In the above embodiment, the housing 2 is roughly hexagonal prism-shaped, but it may be other shapes such as rectangular prism-shaped or semi-cylindrical. Also, two or more display units may be provided in one housing 2. For example, display units may be attached to both sides of the housing.

[0094] The internal structure of the housing 2 is not limited to the illustrated example. The inner frame 11 and the heater 7 and reflector 8 within the inner frame 11 may constitute a heater unit that can be removed from the housing 2. This makes it easier to replace and maintain the heater 7. The position and shape of the inner frame 11 can also be changed as appropriate. The inner frame may not even be provided.

[0095] The structure (telescopic structure), arrangement, and materials of the upper cover 18 and side cover 19 are not limited to the above-described modifications 1 and 2. In the above modifications, each cover 18 and 19 is composed of two metal plates, but they may be composed of a single metal plate or three or more metal plates. Furthermore, these covers 18 and 19 are not limited to metal covers, but may be made of resin. In addition, when the display unit is not tilted, a portion of these covers may be housed inside the housing.

[0096] In the above embodiment, the terminal box 4 is attached to the outer surface of the housing 2, but it may also be located inside the housing 2. Also, in the above embodiment, the irradiation angle β of the snow melting device 100 is adjusted by the fixing part 6, but the tilt angle β may be adjusted by other means. Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the switch SW1 and SW2 for display and heater are provided on the snow melting device, but one or both of these switch SW1 and SW2 may be provided on a control device installed separately from the snow melting device (for example, on the road).

[0097] Furthermore, by appropriately combining any of the various embodiments described above, the effects of each embodiment can be achieved.

[0098] This specification discloses snow melting devices as described in the following sections. <Item 1> This is an irradiation-type snow melting device that melts snow and ice by irradiating them with infrared light. The casing and A heat source that emits infrared rays is placed inside the aforementioned enclosure, A snow melting device comprising: a display unit positioned in close proximity to a mounting surface on the outer surface of the housing, which is configured to receive heat from the heat source and have its temperature rise; and <Item 2> The snow melting device according to item 1, wherein the display unit is configured to allow adjustment of the inclination angle with respect to the mounting surface. <Item 3> When viewed from the direction normal to the mounting surface, the display portion has an upper end and a lower end, The display unit is mounted so as to be tiltable with respect to the mounting surface by fixing its lower end to the mounting surface and rotating its upper end away from the mounting surface. The snow melting device according to item 2, further comprising an upper cover that covers the first space between the display unit and the mounting surface from the upper end side when the display unit is tilted. <Item 4> The snow melting device according to item 3, wherein the upper cover is configured to be expandable and contractible according to the inclination angle of the display unit. <Item 5> When viewed from the direction normal to the mounting surface, the display portion has a side end connecting the upper end and the lower end, The snow melting device according to item 3 or 4, further comprising a side cover configured to cover the first space from the side end side. <Item 6> A reflector is disposed inside the housing and configured to guide infrared rays emitted by the heat source in a predetermined direction, An inner frame located between the reflector and the housing, Furthermore, A snow melting device according to any one of items 1 to 5, wherein the second space defined between the inner frame and the housing is adjacent to the first space between the display unit and the mounting surface via the mounting surface. <Item 7> A snow melting device according to any one of items 1 to 6, wherein at least a portion of the housing including the mounting surface is made of a metal with a higher thermal conductivity than stainless steel, and the surface of the metal is coated with a resin with a higher infrared emissivity than the metal. <Item 8> The snow melting device according to any one of items 1 to 7, wherein the mounting surface is configured to have higher heat dissipation than the surface of the housing facing the mounting surface. <Item 9> The housing further comprises a control unit attached to the aforementioned housing, The control unit, A display switch that switches the display unit on and off, It includes a radiant switch that switches the heat source on and off, The snow melting device according to any one of items 1 to 8, wherein the display unit and the heat source can be switched independently of each other. [Industrial applicability]

[0099] The snow melting device according to the present invention can melt snow and ice, and can also display information through a highly visible display unit. Therefore, the snow melting device according to the present invention can be suitably applied to a variety of locations such as intersections, pedestrian overpasses, railway crossings, expressways, ETC gates, shopping streets, public facility grounds, tunnels, and station platforms. [Explanation of symbols]

[0100] 2 cabinets 3 Display section 4 Terminal box 5. Protective net 6 Fixed part 7 Heater 8 Reflector 8m 1st reflector 8s 2nd reflector 10 Infrared 11. Inner frame 18 Top cover 19 Side cover 20 Irradiation port 21 Top side 22 Side view 23 Mounting surface 24 End face 25 Bottom side 31 Display 32 Support Frame 40 Control Unit 41 AC / DC Converter 100, 101, 102 Snow melting equipment 181, 182, 191, 192 metal plate D Irradiation direction E Tilt direction S1~S5 space SW1 Heater On / Off Switch SW2 Display On / Off Switch α Incline angle β Irradiation angle

Claims

1. This is an irradiation-type snow melting device that melts snow and ice by irradiating them with infrared light. The casing and A heat source that emits infrared rays is placed inside the aforementioned enclosure, A snow melting device comprising: a display unit positioned in close proximity to a mounting surface on the outer surface of the housing, which is configured to receive heat from the heat source and have its temperature rise; and

2. The snow melting device according to claim 1, wherein the display unit is configured to allow adjustment of its inclination angle with respect to the mounting surface.

3. When viewed from the direction normal to the mounting surface, the display portion has an upper end and a lower end, The display unit is mounted so as to be tiltable with respect to the mounting surface by fixing its lower end to the mounting surface and rotating its upper end away from the mounting surface. The snow melting device according to claim 2, further comprising an upper cover that covers the first space between the display unit and the mounting surface from the upper end side when the display unit is tilted.

4. The snow melting device according to claim 3, wherein the upper cover is configured to be expandable and contractible according to the inclination angle of the display unit.

5. When viewed from the direction normal to the mounting surface, the display portion has a side end connecting the upper end and the lower end, The snow melting device according to claim 3, further comprising a side cover configured to cover the first space from the side end side.

6. A reflector is disposed inside the housing and configured to guide infrared rays emitted by the heat source in a predetermined direction, An inner frame located between the reflector and the housing, Furthermore, The snow melting device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the second space defined between the inner frame and the housing is adjacent to the first space between the display unit and the mounting surface via the mounting surface.

7. The snow melting device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein at least a portion of the housing including the mounting surface is made of a metal with a higher thermal conductivity than stainless steel, and the surface of the metal is coated with a resin with a higher infrared emissivity than the metal.

8. The snow melting device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the mounting surface is configured to have higher heat dissipation than the surface of the housing facing the mounting surface.

9. The housing further comprises a control unit attached to the aforementioned housing, The control unit, A display switch that switches the display unit on and off, It includes a radiant switch that switches the heat source on and off, The snow melting device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the display unit and the heat source can be switched independently of each other.

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