Electric blinds

Abstract

To reduce a risk of transmission of bacteria and viruses with a non-contact operation.SOLUTION: An electric blind device of the present invention comprises: a light-shielding part shielding outside light; a driving part moving the light-shielding part; a detecting part detecting an adjacent object in a non-contact manner; and a controlling part controlling the driving part responding to a detection of the object by the detecting part. In addition, the light-shielding part comprises a plurality of light-shielding plates arranged at predetermined intervals in a vertical direction and projecting in a horizontal direction, and a rail member which is lifted or lowered by driving of the driving part to move the plurality of light-shielding plates vertically. The detecting part is preferably provided on the rail member of the light-shielding part.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an electric blind device that controls the operation of a light blocking material by driving a motor. [Background technology]

[0002] An electric blind device can move multiple slats that extend either horizontally or vertically, as well as adjust the tilt angle of the multiple slats. These operations are performed by operating a wired switch connected by a wire, a wireless remote control, or an operating device such as a tablet or wireless communication terminal that is linked to the electric blind device (see Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-105111 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, since the various operating devices described above are likely to be touched by an unspecified number of people, if bacteria or viruses are attached to the operating devices, there is a risk of the bacteria or viruses being transmitted.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide an electric blind device that can be operated without contact, thereby reducing the risk of transmission of bacteria, viruses, etc. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to one aspect, one embodiment of the electric blind device of the present invention comprises a shading unit that blocks external light, a driving unit that performs operations on the shading unit, a detection unit that detects nearby objects non-contact, and a control unit that controls the driving unit in response to the detection of the object by the detection unit.

[0007] In addition, the shading unit has a plurality of shading plates extending horizontally and arranged at a predetermined interval in the vertical direction, and a rail member that moves up and down by driving the drive unit to move the plurality of shading plates up and down, and the detection unit is provided on the rail member of the shading unit.

[0008] In this case, the device is arranged above the multiple light-shielding plates and has a storage section that stores the drive section, the drive section includes a first drive section that raises or lowers the rail member, the detection section includes a first detection section, a second detection section, and a third detection section, and the control section raises the rail member using the first drive section when the first detection section detects that the object has approached, lowers the rail member using the first drive section when the second detection section detects that the object has approached, and stops the raising or lowering of the rail member when the third detection section detects that the object has approached.

[0009] In addition, the drive unit includes a second drive unit that adjusts the inclination angle of the multiple light-blocking plates, and the detection unit includes a fourth detection unit and a fifth detection unit, and the control unit, when the fourth detection unit detects that the object has approached, causes the second drive unit to rotate each of the multiple light-blocking plates in one direction, and when the fifth detection unit detects that the object has approached, causes the second drive unit to rotate each of the multiple light-blocking plates in the direction opposite to the one direction.

[0010] The device also has a measurement unit that measures the time it takes for the object to be detected by the detection unit, and the control unit drives the drive unit when a certain period of time has passed since the object was detected by the detection unit.

[0011] The device also has a measurement unit that measures the time at which the object is detected by the detection unit, and a display unit that displays one of a plurality of preset stop positions of the rail member depending on the detection time of the object by the detection unit, and the control unit drives the drive unit to move the rail member to the stop position displayed on the display unit.

[0012] In this case, the display unit has a plurality of LEDs arranged in a row, and the detection unit is arranged at two locations on the rail member, and when one of the detection units arranged at two locations on the rail member detects the object, the plurality of LEDs are turned on by sequentially switching in one direction, and when the other of the detection units arranged at least two locations detects the object, the plurality of LEDs are turned on by sequentially switching in the direction opposite to the one direction.

[0013] In addition, the detection unit is a first distance sensor that detects the distance to an object located below the rail member, and the control unit drives the drive unit to lower the rail member to the position of the object detected by the detection unit.

[0014] In this case, the device has a storage section arranged above the multiple light-blocking plates and housing the drive unit, and the detection unit includes a second distance sensor arranged above the multiple light-blocking plates and outside the storage section that houses the drive unit, above the rail member and measuring the distance to the object close to the multiple light-blocking plates, and the control unit drives the drive unit based on the distance measured by the second distance sensor.

[0015] The device also includes a human body detection unit that detects an approaching human body, and the control unit enables driving of the drive unit when the human body detection unit detects an approaching human body.

[0016] Also, from one point of view, one embodiment of the electric blind of the present invention is an electric blind device having a blind body with a shading portion that blocks external light, and an operating device that controls the operation of the blind body, wherein the operating device has a sensor unit that detects an object close to the operating device, and a transmitting unit that transmits an operation signal for the blind body to the blind body when the sensor unit detects the object, and the blind body has a driving unit that performs an operation on the shading portion, a receiving unit that receives the operation signal transmitted from the operating device, and a first control unit that receives the operation signal received by the receiving unit and controls the driving unit.

[0017] The blind also has a display unit that displays the operation content for the blind body, a measurement unit that measures the time when the object is detected by the sensor unit, and a second control unit that switches the operation content for the blind body to a different operation content and displays it on the display unit when a certain period of time measured by the measurement unit has elapsed, and the transmission unit transmits an operation signal based on the operation content displayed on the display unit to the blind body when the object is no longer detected by the sensor unit.

[0018] In addition, the operating device has an operating button, and when the operating button is operated while the object is detected by the sensor unit, the transmitting unit prioritizes transmitting an operation signal based on the operation of the operating button.

[0019] The sensor unit is provided on the operation device at a position where an object holding the operation device does not come close when the operation button is operated while the operation device is being held.

[0020] In addition, the shading portion includes an upper shading portion and a lower shading portion located below the upper shading portion, and the first control portion controls at least one of the upper shading portion or the lower shading portion based on the operation signal transmitted from the operating device.

[0021] The shading unit also includes a screen having an upper end attached to a winding member and a weight member disposed at the lower end of the screen and applying tension to the screen, and the drive unit rotates the winding member to unwind the screen wound around the winding member or wind the screen onto the winding member.

[0022] In this case, it is preferable that the screen screen device has an upper frame and a pair of vertical frames extending downward from both sides of the upper frame, and is provided with a frame body that supports the winding member across the pair of vertical frames at a position near the upper frame, the detection unit has a first detection unit and a second detection unit arranged on either one of the pair of vertical frames, and the control unit drives the drive unit to perform a winding operation of the screen by rotating the winding member in one direction during a period from when the first detection unit detects that the object has approached to when it no longer detects the object, and drives the drive unit to perform a winding operation of the screen by rotating the winding member in the direction opposite to the one direction during a period from when the second detection unit detects that the object has approached to when it no longer detects the object.

[0023] In addition, it is preferable that the screen be wound or unwound by driving the drive unit to wind up or unroll the screen until the weight member reaches the same height as the stop position displayed on the display unit. The screen be wound or unrolled ... object reaches the same height as the stop position displayed on the display unit. [Effects of the Invention]

[0024] According to the present disclosure, the operating device can be operated without direct contact, thereby preventing the transmission of bacteria, viruses, and the like. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0025] [Figure 1] FIG. 1(a) is a side view of an electric blind device according to a first embodiment, and FIG. 1(b) is a partial cross-sectional view showing the front of the electric blind device shown in FIG. [Figure 2] 2 is a functional block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the electric blind device shown in FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 3] 10 is a flowchart relating to the raising and lowering of the bottom rail in the electric blind device. [Figure 4] 1A is a front view of the electric blind device showing a state in which a hand is held over the sensor unit 22, and FIG. 1B is a side view showing the state change of the electric blind when a hand is held over the sensor unit 22. FIG. [Figure 5] 1A is a front view of the electric blind device showing a state in which a hand is held over the sensor unit 24, and FIG. 1B is a side view showing the state change of the electric blind when a hand is held over the sensor unit 24. FIG. [Figure 6] 1A is a front view of the electric blind device showing a state in which a hand is held over the sensor unit 23, and FIG. 1B is a side view showing the state change of the electric blind when a hand is held over the sensor unit 23. FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a partial cross-sectional view showing the front of an electric blind device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a functional block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the electric blind device shown in FIG. [Figure 9] 1A is a front view of the electric blind device showing a state in which a hand is held over the sensor unit 72, and FIG. 1B is an explanatory diagram showing the transition of the lighting state of the LED of the display unit. [Figure 10] 10 is a flowchart relating to the raising and lowering of the bottom rail in the electric blind device. [Figure 11] 1A is a front view of the electric blind device showing a state in which a hand is held over sensor unit 102 of two sensor units 101 and 102, and FIG. 1B is an explanatory diagram showing the transition of the lighting state of the LED of the display unit. [Figure 12] 10(a) is a side view of an electric blind device according to a third embodiment, and FIG. 10(b) is a partial cross-sectional view showing the front of the electric blind device. [Figure 13] 13 is a functional block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the electric blind device shown in FIG. 12. FIG. [Figure 14] 10 is a flowchart relating to the raising and lowering of the bottom rail in the electric blind device. [Figure 15] 1A is an explanatory diagram showing the operation when the bottom rail is lowered, and FIG. 1B is an explanatory diagram showing the operation when the bottom rail is raised. [Figure 16] 1 is a front view showing an electric blind device according to a first embodiment, in which a detection device for detecting a human body is provided. [Figure 17] FIG. 16 is a functional block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the electric blind device shown in FIG. [Figure 18] 10 is a flowchart relating to the raising and lowering of the bottom rail in the electric blind device. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an electric blind device according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. [Figure 21] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a display example of a display unit of the operation device. [Figure 22] FIG. 20 is a functional block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the electric blind device shown in FIG. [Figure 23] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an example of a display on a display unit of the operating device when a hand is held over the operating device. [Figure 24] 10 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing by the operation device. [Figure 25] 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of operation of the blind body. [Figure 26] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an electric blind device according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 27] 1A is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an operation panel, FIG. 1B is a diagram showing a state where a hand is held over an upper instruction section, and FIG. 1C is a diagram showing a state where a hand is held over a lowering instruction section. [Figure 28] FIG. 27 is a functional block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the electric blind device shown in FIG. 26. [Figure 29]4 is a flowchart showing the flow of operation of the electric blind device. [Figure 30] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an electric blind device according to a sixth embodiment. [Figure 31] FIG. 2A is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an operation panel, and FIG. 2B is a diagram showing a state in which a hand is held over an instruction unit. [Figure 32] FIG. 31 is a functional block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the electric blind device shown in FIG. 30. [Figure 33] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an example of transition of the lighting state of an LED in a display unit. [Figure 34] 4 is a flowchart showing the flow of operation of the electric blind device. [Figure 35] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an electric blind device according to a seventh embodiment. [Figure 36] FIG. 2(a) is a front view of the operating device, and (b) to (f) are diagrams showing examples of displays on the display unit of the operating device. [Figure 37] FIG. 36 is a functional block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the electric blind device shown in FIG. [Figure 38] 10 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing by the operation device. [Figure 39] 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of operations of the device main body. [Figure 40] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an electric blind device according to an eighth embodiment. [Figure 41] FIG. 2(a) is a front view of the operating device, and (b) to (d) are diagrams showing examples of displays on the display unit of the operating device. [Figure 42] FIG. 41 is a functional block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the electric blind device shown in FIG. 40. [Figure 43] 10 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing by the operation device. [Figure 44] 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of operations of the device main body. [Figure 45] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of an electric blind device in which two screens are arranged side by side in the front-to-rear direction. [Figure 46] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation panel. [Figure 47] FIG. 13 is a functional block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the electric blind device shown in the ninth embodiment. [Figure 48] 10 is a flowchart showing a processing flow on the operation panel. [Figure 49] (a) A diagram showing how a hand approaches and operates the up button on the operation panel, and (b) A diagram showing the distance from the operation panel to each finger when operating the up button on the operation panel. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0026] Hereinafter, an electric blind device according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The following describes an electric horizontal blind device having multiple slats extending horizontally and a bottom rail as an example.

[0027] First Embodiment As shown in FIG. 1, the electric blind device 10 includes multiple tiers of slats 11, a bottom rail 12, and a head box 13.

[0028] The multiple tiers of slats 11 are suspended and supported by ladder cords 14 hanging down from the center and both left and right sides of the head box 13. The multiple tiers of slats 11 move up and down in accordance with the rise and fall of the bottom rail 12.

[0029] The bottom rail 12 is suspended and supported by the lower ends of ladder cords 14 hanging down from the head box 13 and the lower ends of lifting cords 15. The bottom rail 12 is raised and lowered by reeling out or reeling in the lifting cords 15. For example, when the bottom rail 12 is lowered, the multiple tiers of slats 11 are suspended from the ladder cords 14 starting from the uppermost slat 11. On the other hand, when the bottom rail 12 is raised, the multiple tiers of slats 11 are pushed up by the rising bottom rail 12 starting from the lowermost slat 11.

[0030] The bottom rail 12 has sensors 21, 22, 23, 24, and 25 that detect the hands of an operator (hereinafter referred to as an operator) without contact. Note that the positions of the sensors 21, 22, 23, 24, and 25 relative to the bottom rail 12 are merely examples and are not limited to the positions shown in the figures.

[0031] Of the sensor units 21, 22, 23, 24, and 25 provided at five locations on the bottom rail 12, sensor unit 21 rotates each of the multi-stage slats 11 to a fully closed state. Sensor unit 22 lowers the bottom rail 12. Sensor unit 23 stops the lowering or raising of the bottom rail 12 and the rotation of the multi-stage slats 11 to a fully closed state or a reverse fully closed state. Sensor unit 24 raises the bottom rail 12. Sensor unit 25 rotates each of the multi-stage slats 11 to a reverse fully closed state.

[0032] When the multiple slats 11 are in a fully closed state, each of the multiple slats 11 is inclined downward toward the outside. In this state, of two vertically adjacent slats 11, the upper end of the lower slat 11 overlaps the inside of the lower end of the upper slat 11. If there is no gap between adjacent slats 11, external light entering from diagonally above is completely blocked. On the other hand, if there is a gap between adjacent slats 11, some external light will enter the interior while being reflected by the adjacent slats 11.

[0033] On the other hand, when the multiple slats 11 are in the reverse fully closed state, each of the multiple slats 11 is tilted downward toward the inside. In this state, of two vertically adjacent slats 11, the upper end of the lower slat overlaps the outside of the lower end of the upper slat 11. If there is no gap between adjacent slats 11, external light entering from diagonally above is completely blocked. On the other hand, if there is a gap between adjacent slats 11, external light enters the interior either directly through the gap or after being reflected by the adjacent slats 11.

[0034] The head box 13 has a motor 31, a drive shaft 32, an encoder 33, a support member 34, a control device 35, and a power supply device 36 inside.

[0035] The motor 31 connects one end of the drive shaft 32 to the output shaft. Reference numeral 37 denotes a coupler that connects the output shaft of the motor 31 and the drive shaft 32. The motor 31 rotates the drive shaft 32 forward and backward. Hereinafter, the rotation of the drive shaft 32 when lowering the bottom rail 12 will be referred to as forward rotation, and the rotation of the drive shaft 32 when raising the bottom rail 12 will be referred to as reverse rotation.

[0036] The encoder 33 outputs a pulse signal to the control device 35 to detect the amount of rotation of the drive shaft 32. As is well known, the encoder 33 has a disk-shaped slit plate and a photointerrupter. The disk-shaped slit plate is supported on the drive shaft. The photointerrupter detects multiple slits in the slit plate as the slit plate rotates. When the photointerrupter detects the slits in the slit plate as the slit plate rotates, the encoder 33 outputs a pulse signal to the control device 35.

[0037] The support member 34 has a lifting drum 39 and a tilting drum 40. The lifting drum 39 and the tilting drum 40 are fixed to the drive shaft 32. The lifting drum 39 and the tilting drum 40 may be formed integrally or separately.

[0038] In addition, in this embodiment, the lifting drum 39 and the tilting drum 40 are rotated by one drive shaft 32, but it is also possible to provide a drive shaft to fix the lifting drum 39 and a drive shaft to fix the tilting drum 40, and rotate each drum individually by driving a motor.

[0039] The lifting drum 39 winds the lifting cord 15 around its outer periphery. When the drive shaft 32 rotates forward, for example, the lifting drum 39 unwinds the wound lifting cord 15, thereby lowering the bottom rail 12. When the drive shaft 32 rotates reversely, the lifting drum 39 winds up the lifting cord 15. As a result, the lifting cord 15 is drawn into the head box 13, and the bottom rail 12 rises.

[0040] The ladder cord 14 is wound around the outer peripheral surface of the tilt drum 40. The ladder cord 14 generates a predetermined frictional force against the tilt drum 40. Therefore, when the tilt drum 40 rotates, the ladder cord 14 is unwound in a predetermined direction. Although not shown, the ladder cord 14 has metal fittings in two locations. When the metal fittings are unwound in a predetermined direction by the rotation of the tilt drum 40, one of the metal fittings abuts against the case (not shown) of the support member 34, preventing the ladder cord 14 from being unwound in the same direction. This causes the tilt drum 40 to rotate freely relative to the ladder cord 14.

[0041] 2 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the electrical configuration of the electric blind device 10. As shown in FIG.

[0042] The control device 35 includes a CPU 51, a ROM 52, a RAM 53, and a communication unit 54. The CPU 51 executes a control program 55 to perform the functions of a rotation amount calculation unit 56, a position calculation unit 57, and a drive control unit 58.

[0043] The rotation amount calculation unit 56 calculates the rotation amount of the drive shaft 32 based on the pulse signal from the encoder 33 and by referring to the table data stored in the ROM 52 .

[0044] The position calculation unit 57 calculates the position of the bottom rail 12. Specifically, the position calculation unit 57 determines the amount of reeling out of the lifting cord 15 from the amount of rotation of the drive shaft 32 calculated by the rotation amount calculation unit 56. The amount of reeling out of the lifting cord 15 from the lifting drum 39 is proportional to the amount of rotation of the drive shaft 32. Therefore, the position calculation unit 57 calculates the amount of reeling out of the lifting cord 15 from the lifting drum 39 from the calculated amount of rotation of the drive shaft 32. Hereinafter, if the reference position is defined as the time when the bottom rail 12 is at its uppermost end, the amount of reeling out of the lifting cord 15 is the amount of movement of the bottom rail 12 from the reference position. Therefore, the position of the bottom rail 12 can be determined by calculating the amount of reeling out of the lifting cord 15. Hereinafter, the position when the bottom rail 12 is at its uppermost end will be referred to as the upper limit position, and the position when the bottom rail 12 is at its lowermost end will be referred to as the lower limit position.

[0045] The drive control unit 58 receives a detection signal from the detection device 50 and controls the drive of the motor 31 .

[0046] The ROM 52 stores the control program 55 and also stores table data in which the number of pulse signals is associated with the amount of extension of the lift cord 15.

[0047] The RAM 53 temporarily stores data calculated by the CPU 51 and the like.

[0048] The communication unit 54 receives the detection signal transmitted from the communication unit 62 of the detection device 50 .

[0049] The detection device 50 includes the above-described sensors 21, 22, 23, 24, and 25, a timer 61, and a communication unit 62. The detection device 50 is provided inside the bottom rail 12, for example.

[0050] The sensor units 21, 22, 23, 24, and 25 detect, in a non-contact manner, a hand held over the bottom rail 12. The sensor units 21, 22, 23, 24, and 25 are non-contact sensors such as infrared sensors and capacitance proximity sensors.

[0051] When any of the sensor units 21, 22, 23, 24, and 25 detects the operator's hand in a non-contact manner, the timer unit 61 measures the detection time.

[0052] The communication unit 62 transmits a detection signal to the control device 35 via wireless communication. The detection signal is transmitted when a predetermined time (hereinafter, "certain time") has elapsed since the detection time measured by the timing unit 61. The certain time is, for example, 3 to 4 seconds. Hereinafter, a detection signal based on detection by the sensor unit 24 will be referred to as an "up signal," a detection signal based on detection by the sensor unit 22 as a "down signal," and a detection signal based on detection by the sensor unit 23 as a "stop signal."

[0053] In the first embodiment, the detection device 50 has five sensor units 21, 22, 23, 24, and 25, but it is also possible to provide a detection device having one sensor unit at five locations.

[0054] Next, the processing flow when the electric blind device 10 is driven will be described. Below, the processing flow when the bottom rail 12 of the electric blind device 10 is raised and lowered will be described based on the flowchart in Fig. 3. Note that the flowchart in Fig. 3 separates the processing flow in the detection device 50 from the processing flow in the control device 35. First, the processing flow in the detection device 50 will be described.

[0055] Step S101 is a process for determining whether or not there is detection by the sensor unit 24. When the operator holds their hand near the sensor unit 24 of the bottom rail 12, the sensor unit 24 detects the held hand without contact. For example, if the sensor unit 24 detects a hand, the detection device 50 determines the result of the determination process in step S101 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S102. On the other hand, if a hand is not held, the sensor unit 22 does not detect a hand. Therefore, the detection device 50 determines the result of the determination process in step S101 as No. In this case, the process proceeds to step S106.

[0056] Step S102 is a process of starting timekeeping. The detection device 50 starts timekeeping.

[0057] Step S103 is a process for determining whether a certain time has passed. If the certain time has passed since the detection device 50 detected the hand, the result of the determination process in step S103 is Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S104. If the certain time has not passed since the detection device 50 detected the hand, the result of the determination process in step S103 is No. In this case, the process proceeds to step S105.

[0058] In step S104, the detection device 50 transmits the ascending signal to the control device 35.

[0059] Step S105 is a process for determining whether or not there is detection by the sensor unit 24. If the sensor unit 24 has not detected a hand, the detection device 50 determines the result of the determination process in step S105 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S106. On the other hand, if the sensor unit 24 has detected a hand, the detection device 50 determines the result of the determination process in step S105 as No. In this case, the process returns to step S103.

[0060] Step S106 is a process for determining whether or not there is detection by the sensor unit 22. When the operator holds their hand near the sensor unit 22 of the bottom rail 12, the sensor unit 22 detects the held hand without contact. For example, if the sensor unit 22 detects a hand, the detection device 50 determines the result of the determination process in step S106 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S107. On the other hand, if a hand is not held, the sensor unit 22 does not detect a hand. Therefore, the detection device 50 determines the result of the determination process in step S106 as No. In this case, the process proceeds to step S111.

[0061] Step S107 is a process of starting timekeeping. The detection device 50 starts timekeeping.

[0062] Step S108 is a process for determining whether a certain time has elapsed. If the certain time has elapsed since the detection of the hand, the detection device 50 determines the result of the determination process in step S108 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S109. On the other hand, if the certain time has not elapsed since the detection of the hand, the detection device 50 determines the result of the determination process in step S108 as No. In this case, the process proceeds to step S110.

[0063] In step S109, the detection device 50 transmits a descending signal to the control device 35.

[0064] Step S110 is a process for determining whether or not there is detection by the sensor unit 22. If the sensor unit 22 has not detected a hand, the detection device 50 determines the result of the determination process in step S110 as Yes. In this case, the process returns to step S108. On the other hand, if the sensor unit 22 has detected a hand, the detection device 50 determines the result of the determination process in step S110 as No. In this case, the process proceeds to step S111.

[0065] Step S111 is a process for determining whether a hand has been detected. When the operator holds their hand near the sensor unit 23 of the bottom rail 12, the sensor unit 23 detects the held hand without contact. For example, if the sensor unit 23 detects a hand, the detection device 50 determines the result of the determination process in step S111 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S112. On the other hand, if a hand is not held, the sensor unit 23 does not detect a hand. Therefore, the detection device 50 determines the result of the determination process in step S111 as No. In this case, the process returns to the process in step S101.

[0066] Step S112 is a process of starting timekeeping. The detection device 50 starts timekeeping.

[0067] Step S113 is a process for determining whether a certain time has elapsed. If the certain time has elapsed since the detection of the hand, the detection device 50 determines the result of the determination process in step S113 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S114. On the other hand, if the certain time has not elapsed since the detection of the hand, the detection device 50 determines the result of the determination process in step S113 as No. In this case, the process proceeds to step S115.

[0068] In step S114, the detection device 50 transmits a stop signal to the control device 35.

[0069] Step S115 is a process for determining whether or not there is detection by the sensor unit 23. If the sensor unit 23 has not detected a hand, the detection device 50 determines the result of the determination process in step S115 as Yes. In this case, the process returns to step S101. On the other hand, if the sensor unit 23 has detected a hand, the detection device 50 determines the result of the determination process in step S115 as No. In this case, the process returns to step S113.

[0070] The flow of processing in the control device 35 will be shown below.

[0071] Step S201 is a process for determining whether or not an up signal has been received. As described above, after a certain time has elapsed since the sensor unit 24 of the detection device 50 detected a hand, the detection device 50 transmits an up signal to the control device 35. If the control device 35 has received the up signal, the result of the determination process in step S201 is set to Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S202. On the other hand, if the control device 35 has not received the up signal, the result of the determination process in step S201 is set to No. In this case, the process proceeds to step S206.

[0072] Step S202 is a process for determining whether the motor 31 is being driven in reverse rotation. The control device 35 determines whether the motor 31 is being driven in reverse rotation. If the motor 31 is being driven in reverse rotation, the control device 35 sets the result of the determination process in step S202 to Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S206. That is, the motor 31 continues to be driven in reverse rotation without switching its rotation. Therefore, the lifting drum 39, which continues to rotate in reverse, continues to wind up the lifting cord 15. As a result, the bottom rail 12 continues to rise.

[0073] On the other hand, if the motor 31 is not being driven to rotate in the reverse direction, the control device 35 determines the result of the determination process in step S202 as No. In this case, the process proceeds to step S203.

[0074] Step S203 is a process for determining whether the motor 31 is being driven in the forward rotation. If the motor 31 is being driven in the forward rotation, the control device 35 determines the result of the determination process in step S203 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S204. On the other hand, if the motor 31 is not being driven in the forward rotation, the control device 35 determines the result of the determination process in step S203 as No. In this case, the process proceeds to step S205.

[0075] Step S204 is a process for switching the rotation of the motor. The control device 35 switches the rotation drive of the motor 31 from forward rotation drive to reverse rotation drive. As a result, the lift drum 39, which had been rotating forward, rotates in the reverse direction. Therefore, the lift drum 39, whose rotation has been switched from forward to reverse, winds up the lift cord 15. As a result, the bottom rail 12, which had been lowered, rises.

[0076] Step S205 is a process for driving the motor in reverse. If the determination process in step S201 and the determination process in step S203 are both No, this indicates that the motor 31 is stopped. The control device 35 drives the motor 31 in reverse. As a result, the stopped lift drum 39 rotates in reverse. The lift drum 39, which has started to rotate in reverse, winds up the lift cord. As a result, the stopped bottom rail 12 is raised.

[0077] As described above, if the control device 35 has not received the increase signal, in other words, if the result of the determination process in step S201 is No, the control device 35 executes the process in step S206.

[0078] Step S206 is a process for determining whether or not a descending signal has been received. After a certain time has elapsed since the sensor unit 22 of the detection device 50 detected a hand, the detection device 50 transmits a descending signal to the control device 35. If the control device 35 has received a descending signal, the result of the determination process in step S206 is set to Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S207. On the other hand, if the control device 35 has not received a descending signal, the result of the determination process in step S206 is set to No. In this case, the process proceeds to step S211.

[0079] Step S207 is a process for determining whether the motor 31 is being driven in the forward direction. The control device 35 determines whether the motor 31 is being driven in the forward direction. If the motor 31 is being driven in the forward direction, the control device 35 sets the result of the determination process in step S207 to Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S211. That is, the motor 31 continues to be driven in the forward direction without switching its rotation. Therefore, the lifting drum 39, which continues to rotate in the forward direction, reels out the lifting cord 15. As a result, the bottom rail 12 continues to descend.

[0080] On the other hand, if the motor 31 is not driven to rotate in the forward direction, the control device 35 determines the result of the determination process in step S207 as No. In this case, the process proceeds to step S208.

[0081] Step S208 is a process for determining whether the motor 31 is being driven in reverse rotation. If the motor 31 is being driven in reverse rotation, the control device 35 determines the result of the determination process in step S208 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S209. On the other hand, if the motor 31 is not being driven in reverse rotation, the control device 35 determines the result of the determination process in step S209 as No. In this case, the process proceeds to step S210.

[0082] Step S209 is a process for switching the rotation of the motor. The control device 35 switches the rotation drive of the motor 31 from reverse rotation drive to forward rotation drive. As a result, the lift drum 39, which had been rotating in reverse, starts rotating in the forward direction. Therefore, the lift drum 39, whose rotation has been switched from reverse to forward, pays out the lift cord 15. As a result, the bottom rail 12, which had been raised, descends.

[0083] Step S210 is a process for driving the motor in the forward direction. If the determination process in step S207 and the determination process in step S208 are both No, this indicates that the motor 31 is stopped. The control device 35 drives the motor 31 in the forward direction. As a result, the stopped lift drum 39 rotates in the forward direction. The lift drum 39, which has started to rotate in the forward direction, pays out the lift cord. As a result, the stopped bottom rail 12 descends.

[0084] As described above, if the control device 35 has not received an up signal or a down signal, in other words, if the results of the judgment processes in steps S201 and S206 are both No, the control device 35 executes the process of step S211.

[0085] Step S211 is a process for determining whether or not a stop signal has been received. After a certain time has elapsed since the sensor unit 23 of the detection device 50 detected a hand, the detection device 50 transmits a stop signal to the control device 35. If the control device 35 has received the stop signal, the result of the determination process in step S211 is set to Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S212. On the other hand, if the stop signal has not been received, the control device 35 determines the result of the determination process in step S211 to No. In this case, the process returns to step S201.

[0086] Step S212 is a process for determining whether the motor is being rotated. The control device 35 determines whether the motor 31 is being rotated. If the motor 31 is being rotated forward or backward, the control device 35 determines the result of the determination process in step S212 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S213. On the other hand, if the motor 31 is not being rotated forward or backward, the control device 35 determines the result of the determination process in step S212 as No. In this case, the process returns to step S201.

[0087] Step S213 is a process for stopping the driving of the motor. The control device 35 stops the driving of the motor 31. Therefore, the bottom rail 12 that has been rising or falling stops.

[0088] For example, as shown in FIG. 4(a), when a hand is held near the sensor unit 22 of the bottom rail 12, the sensor unit 22 detects the approaching hand. As shown in FIG. 4(b), when the bottom rail 12 is stopped, the bottom rail 12 rises (moves in the direction A in FIG. 4(b)). Also, when the bottom rail 12 is descending (moving in the direction B in FIG. 4(b)), if the sensor unit 22 detects an approaching hand, the bottom rail 12 stops descending and rises (moves in the direction A in FIG. 4(b)). Note that when the bottom rail 12 is ascending (moving in the direction A in FIG. 4(b)), if the sensor unit 22 detects an approaching hand, the bottom rail 12 continues to rise.

[0089] As shown in FIG. 5(a), when a hand is held near the sensor unit 24 of the bottom rail 12, the sensor unit 24 detects the approaching hand. As shown in FIG. 5(b), when the bottom rail 12 is stopped, the bottom rail 12 descends (moves in the direction B in FIG. 5(b)). Note that if the sensor unit 24 detects an approaching hand while the bottom rail 12 is ascending (moving in the direction A in FIG. 5(b)), the bottom rail 12 stops ascending and descends (moves in the direction B in FIG. 5(b)). Note that if the sensor unit 24 detects an approaching hand while the bottom rail 12 is descending (moving in the direction B in FIG. 5(b)), the bottom rail 12 continues to descend.

[0090] As shown in Fig. 6(a), when a hand is held near the sensor unit 23 of the bottom rail 12, the sensor unit 23 detects the approaching hand. As shown in Fig. 6(b), when the bottom rail 12 is descending (moving in the direction A in Fig. 6(b)) or when the bottom rail 12 is ascending (moving in the direction B in Fig. 6(b)), the bottom rail 12 stops. Note that when the bottom rail 12 is stopped, the bottom rail 12 remains stopped even if the sensor unit 23 detects an approaching hand.

[0091] In this way, the bottom rail 12 rises when a hand is held near the sensor unit 22 for a certain period of time. The bottom rail 12 descends when a hand is held near the sensor unit 24 for a certain period of time. Furthermore, the bottom rail 12 stops when a hand is held near the sensor unit 23 for a certain period of time.

[0092] Therefore, the operator can operate the electric blinds with the simple action of waving their hand, without the need for an operating device such as a wired switch or wireless remote control that may be touched by an unspecified number of people, or a tablet or wireless mobile terminal that works in conjunction with the electric blinds. In this case, the electric blinds can be operated by simply waving their hand over the bottom rail 12, for example, so there is no need to directly touch the operating device, reducing the risk of transmitting bacteria or viruses that may be attached to the surface of the operating device.

[0093] At this time, depending on the position where the hand is placed, the bottom rail 12 can be raised or lowered, or the raising or lowering of the bottom rail 12 can be stopped. Therefore, the electric blind device 10 can be easily operated by just the simple action of placing the hand.

[0094] In addition, the time that an object is detected is measured, and the drive unit is driven when a certain period of time has elapsed, so the electric blind device 10 will not operate unless, for example, a hand is detected for a certain period of time. Therefore, by setting the condition that a hand must be detected for a certain period of time, it is possible to prevent the electric blind device 10 from malfunctioning, such as operating simply because a person passes by.

[0095] The operation of rotating the multi-stage slats 11 is similar, and the multi-stage slats 11 rotate to the fully closed state or the reverse fully closed state after a certain time has passed since the hand was detected by the sensor unit 21 or the sensor unit 25 of the detection device 50. Similarly, the rotation of the multi-stage slats 11 is stopped after a certain time has passed since the hand was detected by the sensor unit 22 of the detection device 50. In this case, too, the operator can easily rotate the multi-stage slats 11 by simply placing their hand over a predetermined area of ​​the bottom rail 12.

[0096] In the first embodiment, when raising or lowering the bottom rail 12 or rotating the multiple stages of slats 11, or when stopping these operations, the operator only needs to hold their hand near the target sensor unit on the bottom rail 12. However, in the first embodiment, it is necessary to hold their hand over the target sensor unit twice in total: when raising or lowering the bottom rail 12 and when stopping the raising or lowering of the bottom rail 12.

[0097] Therefore, it is possible to raise and lower the bottom rail to a desired position by simply waving a hand over the electric blind device once. Below, an embodiment in which the bottom rail can be raised and lowered to a desired position by simply waving a hand over the electric blind device once will be described as a second embodiment.

[0098] Second Embodiment Fig. 7 is a partial cross-sectional view showing an example of the front of the electric blind device shown in the second embodiment. Fig. 8 is a functional block diagram of the electric blind device shown in Fig. 7. Note that the electric blind device shown in the second embodiment has a different configuration of the detection device, but other configurations are the same. Therefore, the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment are used for the same configurations as in the first embodiment.

[0099] As shown in Figure 7, the electric blind device 70 has a detection device 74 (see Figure 8) inside the bottom rail 71, which has a sensor unit 72 for raising and lowering the bottom rail 71 and a sensor unit 73 for rotating the multiple stages of slats 11. The bottom rail 71 also has a display device 75 that shows the position of the bottom rail 71 and the rotation state of the multiple stages of slats 11.

[0100] As shown in FIG. 8, the electric blind device 70 includes a detection device 74, a display device 75, and a control device 76.

[0101] The control device 76 has a CPU 77, a ROM 78, a RAM 79, and a communication unit 80. The CPU 77 executes a control program 81 stored in the ROM 78, thereby performing the functions of a drive amount calculation unit 82 and a drive control unit 83.

[0102] The drive amount calculation unit 82 calculates the drive amount of the motor 31 based on the position information attached to the detection signal transmitted from the detection device 74. In detail, the drive amount calculation unit 82 calculates the difference between the position of the bottom rail 71 based on the position information and the current position of the bottom rail 71. After calculating the difference between these positions, the drive amount calculation unit 82 calculates the drive amount of the motor 31 based on the difference in position.

[0103] The drive control unit 83 controls the drive of the motor 31 based on the drive amount calculated by the drive amount calculation unit 82 .

[0104] The detection device 74 has sensor units 72 and 73, a timer unit 85, and a communication unit 86. The sensor units 72 and 73 detect, in a non-contact manner, a hand held over the bottom rail 12. The sensor units 72 and 73 are non-contact sensors such as infrared sensors or capacitance proximity sensors.

[0105] The timer 85 measures the time during which the sensor 72 or the sensor 73 detects the operator's hand. The communication unit 86 transmits a switching signal to the display device 75 every time a certain period of time has elapsed since the time measured by the timer 85. Furthermore, the communication unit 86 transmits a detection signal to the control device 76 when the detection of the hand by the sensor 72 or the sensor 73 is canceled. At this time, the communication unit 86 transmits the detection signal together with position information corresponding to the position of the LED that is lit on the display device 75.

[0106] The display device 75 has two display units 88 and 89 and a display control circuit 90. The display unit 88 is, for example, a display unit for raising and lowering the bottom rail 71. The display unit 89 is a display unit for rotating the multiple stages of slats 11. Each display unit is made up of, for example, five LEDs.

[0107] The five LEDs 91, 92, 93, 94, and 95 of the display unit 88 indicate the position of the bottom rail 71. Specifically, LED 91 lights up when the bottom rail 71 indicates the upper limit position. LED 92 lights up when the bottom rail 71 indicates a position 25% lower than the upper limit position of the lifting distance of the bottom rail 71. LED 93 lights up when the bottom rail 71 indicates a position 50% lower than the upper limit position of the lifting distance of the bottom rail 71. LED 94 lights up when the bottom rail 71 indicates a position 75% lower than the upper limit position of the lifting distance of the bottom rail 71. LED 95 lights up when the bottom rail 71 indicates the lower limit position.

[0108] The five LEDs 96, 97, 98, 99, and 100 of the display unit 89 indicate the rotational state of the multi-stage slats 11. In detail, LED 96 lights up when the multi-stage slats 11 indicate a fully closed state. LED 97 lights up when the multi-stage slats 11 indicate a state intermediate between the fully closed state and a state in which the multi-stage slats 11 are horizontal (hereinafter referred to as the fully open state). LED 98 lights up when the multi-stage slats 11 indicate a fully open state. LED 99 lights up when the multi-stage slats 11 indicate a state intermediate between the fully open state and the reverse fully closed state. LED 100 lights up when the reverse fully closed state is indicated.

[0109] The display control circuit 90 receives a switching signal transmitted from the detection device 74 and controls the display of the display units 88 and 89 of the display device 75. For example, when the sensor unit 72 detects a hand, the display control circuit 90 controls the display of the display unit 88 in the following procedure.

[0110] As shown in FIG. 9(a), when a hand is held near the sensor unit 72 of the bottom rail 71, the sensor unit 72 detects the hand. As shown in FIG. 9(b), for example, when the bottom rail 71 is at the upper limit position, LED 91 of LEDs 91, 92, 93, 94, and 95 of the display unit 88 first lights up. Then, after a certain time has passed since the hand was detected, LED 91 turns off and LED 92 turns on. After another certain time has passed, LED 92 turns off and LED 93 turns on. In this manner, the LEDs that are lit on the display unit 88 are lit in the following order: LED 91 → LED 92 → LED 93 → LED 94 → LED 95 → LED 91 → ... The display control of the display unit 89 is similar. Hereinafter, the position of LED 91 is designated P1, the position of LED 92 is designated P2, the position of LED 93 is designated P3, the position of LED 94 is designated P4, and the position of LED 95 is designated P5.

[0111] Next, the processing flow of the electric blind device 70 will be described based on the flowchart in Fig. 10. The flowchart shown in Fig. 10 separates the processing flow into the processing in the detection device 74, the processing in the display device 75, and the processing flow in the control device 35. First, the processing flow in the detection device 74 will be described.

[0112] Step S301 is a process for determining whether or not there is detection by the sensor unit 72. If a hand is detected by the sensor unit 72, the detection device 74 determines the result of the determination process in step S301 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S302. On the other hand, if a hand is not detected by the sensor unit 72, the detection device 74 determines the result of the determination process in step S301 as No. In this case, the detection device 74 continues to execute the determination process in step S301.

[0113] Step S302 is a process for starting time measurement. The detection device 74 starts time measurement.

[0114] Step S303 is a process for determining whether a certain time has elapsed. The detection device 74 checks the measured time and determines whether the certain time has elapsed. If the certain time has elapsed (reached), the detection device 74 determines the result of the determination process in step S303 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S304. On the other hand, if the certain time has not elapsed, the detection device 74 determines the result of the determination process in step S303 as No. In this case, the process proceeds to step S305.

[0115] In step S304, the detection device 74 transmits a switching signal to the display device 75.

[0116] Step S305 is a process for determining whether or not there is detection by the sensor unit 72. If a hand is not detected by the sensor unit 72, the detection device 74 determines the result of the determination process in step S305 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S306. On the other hand, if a hand is detected by the sensor unit 72, the detection device 74 determines the result of the determination process in step S305 as No. In this case, the process returns to step S303.

[0117] Step S306 is a process for determining whether or not position information has been received. If position information of the LEDs to be turned on has been received from the display device 75, the detection device 74 determines the result of the determination process in step S306 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S307. On the other hand, if position information of the LEDs to be turned on has not been received from the display device 75, the detection device 74 determines the result of the determination process in step S306 as No. In this case, the detection device 74 repeatedly executes the determination process in step S306.

[0118] Step S307 is a process of transmitting a detection signal. The detection device 74 transmits the detection signal accompanied by the LED position information to the control device 76. When step S307 ends, the detection device 74 returns to the process of step S301.

[0119] Next, the processing flow of the display device 75 will be described.

[0120] Step S401 is a process for checking the position of the lit LED. The display device 75 checks the position of the lit LED.

[0121] Step S402 is a process for determining whether the LED at position P5 is on or not. If the LED 89 at position P5 is on, the display device 75 determines the result of the determination process at step S402 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S403. On the other hand, if the LED 89 at position P5 is off, the display device 75 determines the result of the determination process at step S402 as No. In this case, the process proceeds to step S404.

[0122] Step S403 is a process of turning off the LED at position P5 and turning on the LED at position P1. The display device 75 turns off the LED 89 at position P5 and turns on the LED 85 at position P1.

[0123] Step S404 is a process of turning off the LED at position Pn (n=1...4) and turning on the LED at position Pn+1. The display device 75 turns off the LED at position Pn and turns on the LED at position Pn+1.

[0124] Step S405 is processing for transmitting position information. The display device 75 transmits position information indicating the position of the lit LED to the detection device 74. After the processing of step S405 is performed, the process returns to the processing of step S401.

[0125] Next, the flow of processing by the control device 76 will be described.

[0126] Step S501 is a process for determining whether or not a detection signal has been received. If a detection signal has been received, the control device 76 determines the result of the determination process in step S502 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S502. On the other hand, if a detection signal has not been received, the control device 76 determines the result of the determination process in step S501 as No. In this case, the process of step S501 is repeatedly executed.

[0127] Step S502 is a process for determining whether the position based on the input signal matches the current position. The control device 76 compares the position information attached to the detection signal with information indicating the current position of the bottom rail 71. For example, if the position of the bottom rail 71 obtained from the position information attached to the detection signal matches the current position of the bottom rail 71, the control device 76 determines the result of the determination process in step S502 as Yes. In this case, the process returns to step S501. On the other hand, if the position of the bottom rail 71 obtained from the position information attached to the detection signal does not match the current position of the bottom rail 71, the control device 76 determines the result of the determination process in step S502 as No. In this case, the process proceeds to step S503.

[0128] Step S503 is a process for calculating the motor drive amount. The control device 35 calculates the movement amount of the bottom rail 71 from the position information attached to the detection signal and the current position information of the bottom rail 71. The control device 35 calculates the drive amount of the motor 31 from the calculated movement amount.

[0129] Step S504 is a process of driving the motor. The control device 35 drives the motor 31 based on the calculated driving amount.

[0130] Step S505 is a process for determining whether the drive amount of the motor has reached the calculated drive amount. If the drive amount of the motor 31 reaches the calculated drive amount, the control device 76 determines the result of the determination process in step S505 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S506. On the other hand, if the drive amount of the motor 31 has not reached the calculated drive amount, the control device 35 determines the result of the determination process in step S505 as No. In this case, the determination process in step S505 is repeatedly executed.

[0131] In step S506, the control device 76 stops the driving of the motor 31.

[0132] For example, when the LED 91 at position P1 of the display unit 88 is lit, the bottom rail 71 is positioned at the top. At this time, the operator places their hand near the sensor unit 72 to light the LED 93 at position P3. This activates the electric blind device 70, causing the bottom rail 71 to lower to the position corresponding to the LED 93 on the display unit 88. Note that if an LED other than the LED 91 at position P1 on the display unit 88 is lit, the bottom rail 71 lowers to the position corresponding to the lit LED at position Pn. Note that the same applies when raising the bottom rail 71. In this case, simply specifying the position of the bottom rail automatically changes the position of the bottom rail 71. Note that to change the rotational state of the multi-stage slats 11, the operator places their hand near the sensor unit 73 to change the display state of the LED on the display unit 89, and the rotational state of the multi-stage slats 11 is changed to the state corresponding to the position of the lit LED.

[0133] In this case, as in the first embodiment, the bottom rail 71 can be raised and lowered and the slats 11 can be rotated simply by waving a hand, without having to touch the operating device. Therefore, there is no need to directly touch the operating device, which may be touched by an unspecified number of people, and the risk of infection from bacteria or viruses adhering to the surface of the operating device can be reduced.

[0134] Furthermore, since the position of the bottom rail 71 is displayed on the display device 75, the operator can check the display device 75 while waving his / her hand and appropriately indicate the position of the bottom rail 71 after it has been raised or lowered. The position of the bottom rail 71 displayed on the display device 75 changes every time a certain period of time has elapsed, so there is no need to directly input the position of the bottom rail 71. Therefore, the operator only needs to stop waving his / her hand after checking the display, which changes every certain period of time.

[0135] In the second embodiment, when a hand is detected by the sensor unit 72, the LEDs of the display unit 88 are turned on in the order of "LED91 → LED92 → LED93 → LED94 → LED95 → LED91 →...". However, the order in which the LEDs of the display unit 88 are turned on does not need to be limited to the above, and may be, for example, "LED95 → LED94 → LED93 → LED92 → LED91 → LED95 →...".

[0136] In the second embodiment, each time a certain time has elapsed since one sensor unit (sensor unit 72) detected a hand, the LEDs to be lit among the LEDs of the display unit 88 are sequentially switched in one direction. However, it is also possible to provide two sensor units 101 and 102, and to set the switching direction of the LEDs associated with sensor unit 101 and the switching direction of the LEDs associated with sensor unit 102 to be different directions. For example, when sensor unit 101 detects a hand, the LEDs are switched in the same direction as when sensor unit 72 of the second embodiment detects a hand. On the other hand, when sensor unit 102 detects a hand, the LEDs are switched in the opposite direction to that of sensor unit 101.

[0137] As shown in FIG. 11( a), when a hand is held near the sensor unit 102 of the bottom rail 71, for example, when the bottom rail 71 is at the lowest position, as shown in FIG. 11( b), among LEDs 91, 92, 93, 94, and 95 of the display unit 88, LED 95 is first lit. Then, after a certain time has elapsed since the hand was detected, LED 95 is turned off and LED 94 is turned on. After another certain time has elapsed, LED 94 is turned off and LED 93 is turned on. In this manner, the LEDs that are lit on the display unit 88 are lit in the following order: LED 95 → LED 94 → LED 93 → LED 92 → LED 91 → LED 95 → .... In this case, since the order in which the LEDs are lit when a hand is detected by either of the two sensor units 72, 101 is different, for example, if a hand is detected by one sensor unit and the LED at the next position is lit after the LED at the intended position, it is easier to light the LED at the intended position by detecting a hand with the other sensor unit.

[0138] In the second embodiment described above, the position of the bottom rail is switched based on the time when the held hand is detected. However, it is also possible to raise and lower the bottom rail according to the position of the held hand. Hereinafter, an embodiment in which the bottom rail is raised and lowered according to the position of the held hand will be described as a third embodiment.

[0139] <Third embodiment> 12, the electric blind device 110 shown in the third embodiment includes a detection device 114 having a sensor unit 112 on a bottom rail 111, and a detection device 116 having a sensor unit 115 on the front surface of a head box 13. Note that the internal configuration of the head box 13 is the same as that of the first and second embodiments, and therefore will be described below using the same reference numerals.

[0140] As shown in FIG. 13, the electric blind device 110 includes a control device 120 in addition to the detection devices 114 and 116 .

[0141] The detection device 114 has a sensor unit 112, a timing unit 121, and a transmission unit 122. The sensor unit 112 is a non-contact sensor such as a distance sensor. The sensor unit 112 measures distance information indicating the distance to the hand when the hand is held below the bottom rail 111. The timing unit 121 measures the time during which the sensor unit 112 detects the operator's hand. The transmission unit 122 transmits a detection signal accompanied by information on the distance measured by the sensor unit 112 (distance information) to the control device 120.

[0142] The detection device 116 has a sensor unit 115, a timing unit 123, and a transmission unit 124. The sensor unit 115 is a non-contact sensor such as a distance sensor. When the sensor unit 115 detects a hand above the bottom rail 111 when the bottom rail 111 is not positioned at the uppermost level, the sensor unit 115 measures the distance to the detected hand. The timing unit 123 measures the time during which the sensor unit 115 detects the operator's hand. The transmission unit 124 transmits a detection signal accompanied by distance information measured by the sensor unit 115 to the control device 120.

[0143] The control device 120 includes a CPU 126, a ROM 127, a RAM 128, and a communication unit 129. The CPU 126 executes a control program 130 stored in the ROM 127, thereby performing the functions of a drive amount calculation unit 131 and a drive control unit 132.

[0144] The drive amount calculation unit 131 calculates the drive amount of the motor 31 based on distance information attached to the detection signal transmitted from either the detection device 114 or the detection device 116. In detail, the drive amount calculation unit 131 calculates the drive amount of the motor 31 based on the distance information attached to the detection signal and the current position information of the bottom rail 111.

[0145] The drive control unit 132 controls the drive of the motor 31 based on the drive amount calculated by the drive amount calculation unit 131 .

[0146] Next, the flow of processing by the electric blind device 110 related to raising and lowering the bottom rail 111 will be described with reference to the flowchart in Fig. 14. Note that the flowchart in Fig. 14 separates the processing in the detection device 116 and the processing in the control device 120.

[0147] First, the processing flow of the detection device 114 will be described.

[0148] Step S601 is a process of determining whether or not there is detection by the sensor unit 112. If the sensor unit 112 detects a hand, the detection device 114 determines the result of the determination process in step S601 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S602. On the other hand, if a hand is not detected, the detection device 114 determines the result of the determination process in step S601 as No. In this case, the process of step S601 is repeatedly executed.

[0149] Step S602 is a process of starting timekeeping. The detection device 114 starts timekeeping.

[0150] Step S603 is a process for determining whether a certain time has elapsed. If the certain time has elapsed since the detection device 114 detected the hand, the result of the determination process in step S603 is Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S604. On the other hand, if the certain time has not elapsed since the detection device 114 detected the hand, the result of the determination process in step S603 is No. In this case, the process proceeds to step S605.

[0151] Step S604 is a process of transmitting a detection signal. The detection device 114 transmits the detection signal, together with the distance information detected by the sensor unit 112, to the control device 120. When the process of step S604 ends, the process returns to step S601.

[0152] Step S605 is a process for determining whether or not there is detection by the sensor unit 112. If a hand is not detected by the sensor unit 112, the detection device 114 determines the result of the determination process in step S605 as Yes. In this case, the process returns to step S601. On the other hand, if a hand is detected by the sensor unit 112, the detection device 114 determines the result of the determination process in step S605 as No. In this case, the process returns to step S603.

[0153] Next, the processing flow of the detection device 116 will be described.

[0154] Step S701 is a process of determining whether or not there is detection by the sensor unit 115. If the sensor unit 115 detects a hand, the detection device 116 determines the result of the determination process in step S701 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S702. On the other hand, if a hand is not detected, the detection device 116 determines the result of the determination process in step S701 as No. In this case, the process of step S701 is repeatedly executed.

[0155] Step S702 is a process of starting timekeeping. The detection device 116 starts timekeeping.

[0156] Step S703 is a process for determining whether a certain time has elapsed. If the certain time has elapsed since the detection of the hand, the detection device 114 determines the result of the determination process in step S703 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S704. On the other hand, if the certain time has not elapsed since the detection of the hand, the detection device 116 determines the result of the determination process in step S703 as No. In this case, the process proceeds to step S705.

[0157] Step S704 is a process of transmitting a detection signal. The detection device 116 transmits the detection signal, to which distance information detected by the sensor unit 115 is attached, to the control device 120. When the process of step S704 ends, the process returns to step S701.

[0158] Step S705 is a process for determining whether or not there is detection by the sensor unit 115. If a hand is not detected by the sensor unit 115, the detection device 116 determines the result of the determination process in step S705 as Yes. In this case, the process returns to step S701. On the other hand, if a hand is detected by the sensor unit 115, the detection device 116 determines the result of the determination process in step S705 as No. In this case, the process returns to step S703.

[0159] Finally, the processing of the control device 120 will be described.

[0160] Step S801 is a process for determining whether a detection signal has been received. If a detection signal has been received from either the detection device 114 or the detection device 116, the control device 120 determines the result of the determination process in step S801 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S802. On the other hand, if a detection signal has not been received from either the detection device 114 or the detection device 116, the control device 120 determines the result of the determination process in step S802 as No. In this case, the process of step S801 is executed.

[0161] Step S802 is a process for calculating the motor drive amount. The control device 120 calculates the movement amount of the bottom rail 71 from the distance information attached to the detection signal and information indicating the current position of the bottom rail 111. The control device 35 calculates the drive amount of the motor 31 from the calculated movement amount.

[0162] Step S803 is a process of driving the motor. The control device 120 drives the motor 31 based on the calculated driving amount.

[0163] Step S804 is a process for determining whether the drive amount of the motor has reached the calculated drive amount. If the drive amount of the motor 31 is the calculated drive amount, the control device 120 determines the result of the determination process in step S804 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S805. On the other hand, if the drive amount of the motor 31 has not reached the calculated drive amount, the control device 120 determines the result of the determination process in step S804 as No. In this case, the determination process in step S804 is repeatedly executed.

[0164] In step S805, the control device 120 stops the driving of the motor 31.

[0165] As shown in FIG. 15(a), when the bottom rail 111 is at its upper limit position, a hand is held below the bottom rail 111. When a hand is held below the bottom rail 111, the sensor unit 112 detects the hand. As described above, when the sensor unit 112 detects the hand, the distance to the hand is measured. Therefore, in this case, the bottom rail 111 descends to the position of the held hand.

[0166] 15(b), when the bottom rail 111 is at the lowest position, a hand is held close to the slat 11. When a hand is held close to the slat 11, the sensor unit 115 detects the hand. As described above, when the sensor unit 115 detects the hand, the distance to the hand is measured. Therefore, in this case, the bottom rail 111 rises to the position of the held hand.

[0167] In this way, since the bottom rail 111 is provided with the sensor unit 112, which is a first distance sensor, the bottom rail 111 can be lowered simply by holding a hand below the bottom rail 111. Furthermore, since the head box 13 is provided with the sensor unit 115, which is a second distance sensor, the bottom rail can be raised simply by holding a hand above the bottom rail. In other words, the bottom rail 111 can be raised or lowered to the desired position simply by holding a hand near the electric blind device 110. Therefore, the same effects as those of the electric blind device 10 shown in the first embodiment can be obtained.

[0168] In the third embodiment, a case has been described in which a detection device is provided in each of the head box 13 and the bottom rail 111, but it is also possible to provide a detection device in either the head box 13 or the bottom rail 111.

[0169] Although the electric blind device shown in the third embodiment does not mention the rotation of the slats, by using a configuration similar to that of the electric blind device of either the first or second embodiment, it is possible to rotate the slats simply by waving your hand.

[0170] In the first to third embodiments, the bottom rail is raised and lowered by detecting a held-out hand, but there is a risk that the bottom rail may be raised and lowered if something other than a hand is detected. Therefore, in addition to these detection devices, it is also possible to provide a detection device that detects a person approaching the electric blind device. In the following, an example will be described in which a detection device that detects a person approaching the electric blind device is provided in the configuration of the electric blind device of the first embodiment. Hereinafter, components that are the same as those in the first embodiment will be assigned the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment.

[0171] As shown in FIG. 16, the electric blind device 150 further includes a detection device 152 (see FIG. 17) having a sensor unit 151 in the head box 13.

[0172] As shown in FIG. 17, the electric blind device 150 includes a control device 155 in addition to the detection devices 114, 116 and 152.

[0173] The control device 155 has a CPU 156, a ROM 157, a RAM 158, and a communication unit 159. The CPU 155 executes a control program 160 stored in the ROM 156 to thereby perform the functions of a determination unit 161, a rotation amount calculation unit 162, a position calculation unit 163, and a drive control unit 164. Note that the rotation amount calculation unit 162, the position calculation unit 163, and the drive control unit 164 have the same configurations as the rotation amount calculation unit 56, the position calculation unit 57, and the drive control unit 58 of the first embodiment, and therefore only the determination unit 161 will be described below.

[0174] The determination unit 161 receives a detection signal from the detection device 152 and determines whether or not there is a person near the electric blind device 150. If it is determined that there is a person near the electric blind device 150, the functions of the rotation amount calculation unit 162, the position calculation unit 163, and the drive control unit 164 become active.

[0175] Next, the control flow of the electric blind device having such a configuration will be described based on the flowchart shown in Fig. 18. In the flowchart shown in Fig. 18, the processing flow in the detection device is the same as the flowchart shown in Fig. 3.

[0176] Step S901 is a process for determining whether or not a detection signal has been received. When an operator approaches the electric shade device 150, the sensor unit 151 detects the operator. Therefore, the detection device 152 transmits a detection signal to the control device 155. If the control device 155 receives the detection signal, the control device 155 determines the result of the determination process in step S901 as Yes. In this case, the processes from step S201 onwards are executed, and the control device 155 executes processing based on the detection signal transmitted from the detection device 50, similar to the first embodiment.

[0177] On the other hand, when the operator is not approaching the electric blind device 150, the sensor unit 151 does not detect the operator. Therefore, the detection device 152 does not transmit a detection signal to the control device 155. In other words, no detection signal is received, and the control device 155 determines the result of the determination process in step S901 as No. In this case, the control device 155 repeatedly executes the determination process in step S901. In other words, the processes from step S201 onwards are not executed, and therefore the electric blind device 150 does not operate even if a detection signal is transmitted from the detection device.

[0178] In this way, the electric blind device 150 shown in this embodiment will not operate unless it detects a human body approaching the electric blind device 150, thereby preventing the electric blind device 150 from malfunctioning.

[0179] The electric blind device 150 is described as an example in which a detection device 152 that detects a person approaching the electric blind device 10 is added to the configuration of the electric blind device 10 shown in the first embodiment, but it is also possible to add the detection device 152 to the configuration of the electric blind device 70 of the second embodiment or the electric blind device 110 of the third embodiment.

[0180] The electric blind devices shown in the first and second embodiments above are electric blind devices in which a detection device for detecting a held hand is provided on the bottom rail. The electric blind device shown in the third embodiment is an electric blind device in which a detection device for detecting the distance of a held hand is provided on the bottom rail or head box. However, the location where the detection device is provided is not limited to the bottom rail or head box. For example, commonly available electric blind devices have an operating device such as a remote control. Therefore, it is also possible to provide a detection device on the operating device.

[0181] Hereinafter, a fourth embodiment will be described in which a detection device is provided in an operating device such as a remote controller.

[0182] <Fourth embodiment> As shown in FIG. 19, the electric blind device 180 shown in the fourth embodiment includes a blind main body 181 and an operating device 182. The main components of the blind main body 181 are the same as those of the electric blind devices 180 shown in the first to third embodiments, and include multiple slats 183, a bottom rail 184, and a head box 185. The blind main body 181 is provided with a lift-up drum 186 and a tilt drum 187 that are housed inside the head box 185 (see the figure). Details of the internal configuration of the head box 185 will be omitted, but in the electric blind device 180 shown in the fourth embodiment, the lift-up drum 186 and the tilt drum 187 rotate independently by being driven by different motors (lift-up motor 188, tilt motor 189).

[0183] The operating device 182 can perform operations such as raising and lowering the bottom rail 184 based on the drive of the lift motor 188 described above, rotating the multiple stages of slats 183 based on the drive of the tilt motor 189, or stopping these operations.

[0184] 20, operating device 182 has operating unit 191, sensor unit 192, and display unit 193. Note that in the figure, operating unit 191, sensor unit 192, and display unit 193 are arranged in this order from above: display unit 193, operating unit 191, sensor unit 192.

[0185] The operation unit 191 has a plurality of operation buttons. The plurality of operation buttons include, for example, an operation button indicating "up" (hereinafter referred to as "up button") 195, an operation button indicating "down" (hereinafter referred to as "down button") 196, an operation button indicating "left rotation" (hereinafter referred to as "left rotation button") 197, an operation button indicating "right rotation" (hereinafter referred to as "right rotation button") 198, and an operation button indicating "stop" (hereinafter referred to as "stop button") 199. Note that reference numeral 200 denotes a switching button that is operated to switch the blind main body to be operated when operating multiple blind main bodies with a single operating device.

[0186] The up button 195 is a button that is operated when raising the bottom rail 184. The down button 196 is a button that is operated when lowering the bottom rail 184. The left rotation button 197 is a button that is operated when rotating the multi-stage slats 183 to a fully closed state. The right rotation button 198 is a button that is operated when rotating the multi-stage slats 183 to a reverse fully closed state. The stop button 199 is a button that is operated when stopping the raising and lowering of the bottom rail 184 or the rotation of the multi-stage slats 183.

[0187] The sensor unit 192 detects, in a non-contact manner, an object approaching the operating device 182. The sensor unit 192 is, for example, an infrared sensor or a proximity sensor.

[0188] For example, when the above-described plurality of operation buttons are operated, the display unit 193 displays the operation content corresponding to the operated operation button. As shown in FIG. 21(a), for example, when the up button 195 is operated, the display unit 193 displays "Up: UP", "▲", or the like. As shown in FIG. 21(b), for example, when the down button 196 is operated, the display unit 193 displays "Down: DOWN", "▼", or the like. As shown in FIG. 21(c), for example, when the left rotation button 197 is operated, the display unit 193 displays "Tilt" or a mark indicating left rotation. As shown in FIG. 21(d), for example, when the right rotation button 198 is operated, the display unit 193 displays "Tilt" or a mark indicating right rotation. As shown in FIG. 21(e), for example, when the stop button 199 is operated, the display unit 193 displays "STOP".

[0189] 21(a) to 21(e) are displayed on the display unit 193 while being switched every time a certain period of time elapses when an object is detected by the sensor unit 192.

[0190] FIG. 22 is a functional block diagram showing the electrical configuration of an electric blind device 180 shown in the fourth embodiment.

[0191] As shown in Fig. 22, the electric blind device 180 has a blind main body 181 and an operating device 182. The blind main body 181 has a lifting motor 188, a tilt motor 189, an encoder 205, and a control device 206. The lifting motor 188 rotates a drive shaft connected to an output shaft in a forward or reverse direction. The rotation of this drive shaft rotates a lifting drum 186 in a forward or reverse direction, thereby unwinding or winding the lifting cord. In the fourth embodiment as well, the rotation of the lifting drum when unwinding the lifting cord is referred to as a forward rotation, and the rotation of the lifting drum when winding the lifting cord is referred to as a reverse rotation.

[0192] The tilt motor 189 rotates a drive shaft connected to the output shaft in a forward or reverse direction. The rotation of this drive shaft rotates the tilt drum 187 in a forward or reverse direction. In the fourth embodiment as well, the rotation of the tilt drum 187 when the multi-stage slats 183 are brought into the fully closed state is referred to as a forward rotation, and the rotation of the tilt drum 187 when the multi-stage slats 183 are brought into the reverse fully closed state is referred to as a reverse rotation.

[0193] The encoder 205 detects the rotation of the drive shaft connected to the output shaft of the lift motor 188 and outputs a pulse signal to the control device 206 .

[0194] The control device 206 includes a CPU 210, a ROM 211, a RAM 212, and a communication unit 213. The CPU 210 executes a control program 214 to perform the functions of a rotation amount calculation unit 221, a position calculation unit 222, and a drive control unit 223.

[0195] The rotation amount calculation unit 221 calculates the rotation amount of the drive shaft based on the pulse signal from the encoder 205 and by referring to table data (not shown) stored in the ROM 211.

[0196] The position calculation unit 222 calculates the position of the bottom rail 184. More specifically, the position calculation unit 222 determines the amount of reeling out of the lifting cord from the amount of rotation of the drive shaft calculated by the rotation amount calculation unit 221. The amount of reeling out of the lifting cord from the lifting drum 186 is proportional to the amount of rotation of the drive shaft. Therefore, the position calculation unit 222 calculates the amount of reeling out of the lifting cord from the lifting drum 186 from the calculated amount of rotation of the drive shaft. Here, if the reference position is when the bottom rail 184 is at its upper limit position, the amount of reeling out of the lifting cord is the amount of movement of the bottom rail 184 from the reference position. Therefore, the position of the bottom rail 184 can be identified by calculating the amount of reeling out of the lifting cord.

[0197] The drive control unit 223 receives an operation signal transmitted from the operation device 182 and controls the driving of the lift motor 188 and the tilt motor 189 .

[0198] The ROM 211 stores the control program 214 and also stores table data in which the number of pulse signals is associated with the amount of payout of the lift cord.

[0199] The RAM 212 temporarily stores data calculated by the CPU 210 and the like.

[0200] The communication unit 213 receives an operation signal transmitted from the operation device 182 .

[0201] The operation device 182 includes a sensor unit 192 , an operation unit 191 , a display unit 193 , a CPU 225 , a ROM 226 , a RAM 227 , and a communication unit 228 .

[0202] The CPU 225 executes an operation program 229 stored in the ROM 226 to thereby have the functions of a control unit 230 and a measurement unit 231 .

[0203] When any of the operation buttons on the operation unit 191 is operated, the control unit 230 transmits an operation signal corresponding to the operated operation button to the blind main body 181 via the communication unit 228. The control unit 230 also receives a detection signal from the sensor unit 192 and controls the display on the display unit 293. Then, when the detection signal from the sensor unit 192 is stopped, the control unit 230 transmits an operation signal based on the display on the display unit 293 to the blind main body 181 via the communication unit 228.

[0204] The measurement unit 231 receives the detection signal from the sensor unit 192 and measures the time since the detection signal was output.

[0205] For example, if the time that has elapsed since the proximity hand was detected is, for example, 0.2 to 0.5 seconds, the control unit 230 displays "STOP" on the display unit 193 (see FIG. 23(a)). If the time that has elapsed since the proximity hand was detected is, for example, 1 second, the control unit 230 displays "UP" or "▲" on the display unit 193 (see FIG. 23(b)). If the time that has elapsed since the proximity hand was detected is, for example, 3 seconds, the control unit 230 displays "DOWN" or "▼" on the display unit 193 (see FIG. 23(c)).

[0206] Furthermore, if the time that has elapsed since the proximity hand was detected is, for example, 5 seconds, control unit 230 displays "tilt" or a mark indicating a right turn on display unit 193 (see FIG. 23(d)). If the time that has elapsed since the proximity hand was detected is, for example, 7 seconds, control unit 230 displays "tilt" or a mark indicating a left turn on display unit 193 (see FIG. 23(e)).

[0207] After this display, if, for example, nine seconds have elapsed since the detection of an approaching hand, control unit 230 displays "STOP" on display unit 193. Then, after "STOP" is displayed on display unit 193, control unit 230 switches the display on display unit 193 in the following order every two seconds: "Up" → "Down" → "Tilt (right rotation)" → "Tilt (left rotation)" → "Stop" → . . .

[0208] Next, a description will be given of the flow of processing when the electric blind device 180 is driven. First, the flow of processing in the operating device 182 will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG.

[0209] Step S1001 is a process for determining whether or not there is detection by the sensor unit. When a hand is held near sensor unit 192 of operation device 182, sensor unit 192 detects the hand. When sensor unit 192 detects the hand, sensor unit 192 outputs a detection signal to CPU 225. When a detection signal is input from sensor unit 192, CPU 225 determines the result of the determination process of step S1001 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1002. On the other hand, when a detection signal is not input from sensor unit 192, CPU 225 determines the result of the determination process of step S1001 as No. In this case, CPU 225 continues to execute the determination process of step S1001.

[0210] Step S1002 is a process for starting timekeeping. The CPU 225 starts timekeeping.

[0211] Step S1003 is a process for determining whether a certain time has elapsed. In step S1003, the certain time is, for example, 0.2 to 0.5 seconds after the start of timing. If the certain time has elapsed since the start of timing, the CPU 225 determines the result of the determination process in step S1003 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1004. On the other hand, if the certain time has not elapsed since the start of timing, the CPU 225 determines the result of the determination process in step S1003 as No. In this case, the determination process in step S1003 is repeatedly executed until the certain time has elapsed.

[0212] Step S1004 is a process of displaying "STOP" on the display unit 193. The CPU 225 controls the display unit 193 to display "STOP" (see FIG. 23(a)).

[0213] Step S1005 is a process for determining whether or not detection by the sensor unit has ended. If the sensor unit 192 continues to output a detection signal, the CPU 225 determines the result of the determination process in step S1005 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1006. On the other hand, if the output of the detection signal from the sensor unit 192 has stopped, the CPU 225 determines the result of the determination process in step S1005 as No. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1019.

[0214] Step S1006 is a process for determining whether a certain time has elapsed. In step S1006, the certain time is, for example, one second from the start of timing. If the certain time has elapsed since the start of timing, CPU 225 determines the result of the determination process in step S1006 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1007. On the other hand, if the certain time has not elapsed since the start of timing, CPU 225 determines the result of the determination process in step S1006 as No. In this case, the determination process in step S1006 is repeatedly executed until the certain time has elapsed.

[0215] Step S1007 is a process of displaying "Up" on the display unit 193. The CPU 225 controls the display unit 193 to display "Up: UP", "▲", etc. (see FIG. 23(b)).

[0216] Step S1008 is a process for determining whether or not detection by the sensor unit has ended. If the sensor unit 192 continues to output a detection signal, the CPU 225 determines the result of the determination process in step S1008 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1009. On the other hand, if the output of the detection signal from the sensor unit 192 has stopped, the CPU 225 determines the result of the determination process in step S1008 as No. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1019.

[0217] Step S1009 is a process for determining whether a certain time has elapsed. In step S1009, the certain time is, for example, three seconds from the start of timing. If the certain time has elapsed since the start of timing, CPU 225 determines the result of the determination process in step S1009 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1010. On the other hand, if the certain time has not elapsed since the start of timing, CPU 225 determines the result of the determination process in step S1009 as No. In this case, the determination process in step S1009 is repeatedly executed until the certain time has elapsed.

[0218] Step S1010 is a process for displaying "Down" on the display unit 193. The CPU 225 controls the display unit 193 to display "Down: DOWN", "▼", or the like (see FIG. 23(c)).

[0219] Step S1011 is a process for determining whether or not detection by the sensor unit has ended. If the sensor unit 192 continues to output a detection signal, the CPU 225 determines the result of the determination process in step S1011 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1012. On the other hand, if the output of the detection signal from the sensor unit 192 has stopped, the CPU 225 determines the result of the determination process in step S1011 as No. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1019.

[0220] Step S1012 is a process for determining whether a certain time has elapsed. In step S1012, the certain time is, for example, 5 seconds from the start of timing. If the certain time has elapsed since the start of timing, CPU 225 determines the result of the determination process in step S1012 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1013. On the other hand, if the certain time has not elapsed since the start of timing, CPU 225 determines the result of the determination process in step S1012 as No. In this case, the determination process in step S1012 is repeatedly executed until the certain time has elapsed.

[0221] Step S1013 is a process of displaying "Tilt (right rotation)" on the display unit 193. The CPU 225 controls the display unit 193 to display "Tilt" and a mark indicating right rotation (see FIG. 23(c)).

[0222] Step S1014 is a process for determining whether or not detection by the sensor unit has ended. If the sensor unit 192 continues to output a detection signal, the CPU 225 determines the result of the determination process in step S1014 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1015. On the other hand, if the output of the detection signal from the sensor unit 192 has stopped, the CPU 225 determines the result of the determination process in step S1014 as No. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1019.

[0223] Step S1015 is a process for determining whether a certain time has elapsed. In step S1015, the certain time is, for example, 7 seconds from the start of timing. If the certain time has elapsed since the start of timing, CPU 225 determines the result of the determination process in step S1015 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1016. On the other hand, if the certain time has not elapsed since the start of timing, CPU 225 determines the result of the determination process in step S1015 as No. In this case, the determination process in step S1015 is repeatedly executed until the certain time has elapsed.

[0224] Step S1016 is a process of displaying "Tilt (left rotation)" on the display unit 193. The CPU 225 controls the display unit 193 to display "Tilt" and a mark indicating left rotation (see FIG. 23(d)).

[0225] Step S1017 is a process for determining whether or not detection by the sensor unit has ended. If the sensor unit 192 continues to output a detection signal, the CPU 225 determines the result of the determination process in step S1017 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1018. On the other hand, if the output of the detection signal from the sensor unit 192 has stopped, the CPU 225 determines the result of the determination process in step S1017 as No. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1019.

[0226] Step S1018 is a process for determining whether a certain time has elapsed. In step S1018, the certain time is, for example, 9 seconds from the start of timing. If the certain time has elapsed since the start of timing, CPU 225 determines the result of the determination process of step S1018 as Yes. In this case, the process returns to step S1004. On the other hand, if the certain time has not elapsed since the start of timing, CPU 225 determines the result of the determination process of step S1018 as No. In this case, the determination process of step S1018 is repeatedly executed until the certain time has elapsed.

[0227] If the result of the determination process in step S1018 is Yes, the display on the display unit 193 is switched every two seconds, in other words, every 9, 11, 13, and 15 seconds after the start of timing.

[0228] Step S1019 is a process of transmitting an operation signal based on the display. The CPU 225 transmits an operation signal based on the operation content displayed on the display unit 193 to the control device 206 of the blind main body 181 via the communication unit 228.

[0229] Next, the processing flow of the blind main body 181 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

[0230] Step S1101 is a process for determining whether or not an operation signal has been received. The control device 206 receives an operation signal transmitted from the operation device 182. Therefore, if an operation signal has been received from the operation device, the control device 206 determines the result of the determination process in step S1101 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1102. On the other hand, if an operation signal has not been received from the operation device 182, the result of the determination process in step S1101 is No. In this case, the control device 206 continues to execute the determination process in step S1101.

[0231] Step S1102 is a process for determining whether the operation content indicates "rising." If the operation content based on the operation signal indicates "rising," the control device 206 determines the result of the determination process in step S1102 as "Yes." In this case, the process proceeds to step S1103. On the other hand, if the operation content based on the operation signal indicates something other than "rising," the control device 206 determines the result of the determination process in step S1102 as "No." In this case, the process proceeds to step S1104.

[0232] Step S1103 is a process for driving the lift motor in reverse. The control device 206 drives the lift motor 188 in reverse. As a result, the lift motor 188 rotates in reverse, and the lift cord is wound around the lift motor 188. This causes the bottom rail to rise. At this time, the bottom rail 184 pushes up the multiple stages of slats 183, starting with the lowest slat.

[0233] Step S1104 is a process for determining whether the operation content indicates "downward." If the operation content based on the operation signal indicates "downward," the control device 206 determines the result of the determination process in step S1104 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1105. On the other hand, if the operation content based on the operation signal indicates something other than "downward," the control device 206 determines the result of the determination process in step S1104 as No. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1106.

[0234] Step S1105 is a process for driving the lift motor in the forward direction. The control device 206 drives the lift motor 188 in the forward direction. Accordingly, the lift motor 188 rotates in the forward direction, and the lift cord is unwound from the lift motor 188. This causes the bottom rail 184 to descend. As a result, of the multiple stages of slats 183, the slats are suspended from the ladder cord in order, starting with the uppermost slat.

[0235] Step S1106 is a process for determining whether the operation content indicates "tilt (right rotation)." If the operation content based on the operation signal indicates "tilt (right rotation)," the control device 206 determines the result of the determination process in step S1106 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1107. On the other hand, if the operation content based on the operation signal indicates something other than "tilt (right rotation)," the control device 206 determines the result of the determination process in step S1106 as No. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1108.

[0236] Step S1107 is a process for driving the tilt motor in reverse. The control device 206 drives the tilt motor 189 in reverse. As a result, the tilt drum 187 rotates in reverse, and the ladder cord is sent out toward the front side of the blind body 181. This causes the multiple slats 183 to rotate toward the reverse fully closed state.

[0237] Step S1108 is a process for determining whether the operation content indicates "tilt (left rotation)." If the operation content based on the operation signal indicates "tilt (left rotation)," the control device 206 determines the result of the determination process in step S1108 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1109. On the other hand, if the operation content based on the operation signal indicates something other than "tilt (left rotation)," the control device 206 determines the result of the determination process in step S1108 as No. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1110.

[0238] Step S1109 is a process for driving the tilt motor in the forward direction. The control device 206 drives the tilt motor 189 in the forward direction. As a result, the tilt drum 187 rotates in the forward direction, and the ladder cord is sent out toward the back side of the blind body 181. As a result, the multiple slats 183 rotate toward the fully closed state.

[0239] If the action content based on the action signal indicates "stop," the results of the determination processes in steps S1101, S1104, S1106, and S1108 are No. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1110.

[0240] Step S1110 is a process for stopping the driving of the motors. The control device 206 stops the driving of either the lift motor 188 or the tilt motor 189, whichever is currently being driven. When the control device 206 performs the process of step S1110, for example, the driving of the lift motor 188 is stopped, and the lifting and lowering of the bottom rail is stopped. Also, the driving of the tilt motor 189 is stopped, and the rotation of the multiple slats is stopped.

[0241] In this way, it is possible to operate the blind body 181 by simply waving your hand over it, without having to touch the operating device 182. This makes it possible to prevent the transmission of bacteria, viruses, and the like that may be attached to the operating device 182.

[0242] Furthermore, by providing the operating device 182 with a display unit 193 that displays the operation of the blind main body 181 being operated, the operation of the blind main body 181 can be easily seen. As a result, when the operator releases the operating device 182 after the operation intended by the operator is displayed on the display unit 193, the operation intended by the operator is executed by the blind main body 181. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the blind main body 181 from malfunctioning.

[0243] The operating device 182 has an operating unit 191 with multiple operating buttons, and prioritizes sending operation signals based on the operation of the operating unit 191 to the blind main body 181. As a result, if it is necessary to operate the operating unit while the blind main body 181 is operating using the sensor unit 192, the operation based on the operating unit is prioritized. Therefore, if the bottom rail 184 is raised or lowered or the multiple stages of slats 183 are rotated more than necessary, the operating unit 191 can be operated to return them to an appropriate state or to stop them.

[0244] In the fourth embodiment, the display unit 193, the operation unit 191, and the sensor unit 192 are arranged in this order from above the operating device 182. In this case, when the operator grasps the operating device 182 with their hand, the sensor unit 192 may detect the operator's hand, and when the operator releases the operating device 182, an operation signal indicating the operation of the blind main body 181 may be automatically transmitted to the blind main body 181. Therefore, the sensor unit 192 may be arranged on the operating device 182 in a position where the hand grasping the operating device 182 does not come close to it. For example, it is preferable to arrange the sensor unit 192 near the display unit 193. Alternatively, the display unit 193 and the sensor unit 192 may be integrated into one unit. This makes it possible to prevent the blind main body 181 from automatically operating simply by grasping the operating device 182.

[0245] In the fourth embodiment, the operation content displayed on the display unit 193 is switched based on the time when the sensor unit 192 detects an approaching hand. When the sensor unit 192 finishes detecting the hand, an operation signal based on the operation content displayed on the display unit 193 is transmitted to the blind body 181. However, it is also possible to determine the operation content based on the distance of an object (in this case, a hand) from the operating device and transmit an operation signal based on the determined operation content to the blind body. In this case, the sensor unit measures the distance to the hand and displays the operation content based on the measured distance on the display unit. In this case, if the distance to the hand fluctuates, the display content on the display unit is changed to display the operation content based on the distance. Furthermore, since it is expected that the hand position may be unstable due to hand shaking or other reasons, an operation signal based on the operation content corresponding to the distance may be transmitted to the blind body when a certain period of time has elapsed while the measured distance fluctuates within a certain range (error range). In this case, the blind system can also be operated without touching the operating device.

[0246] In all of the above-described embodiments, an electric horizontal blind device has been exemplified as an electric blind device, but the present invention can also be applied to an electric vertical blind device.

[0247] In the first to fourth embodiments, an electric horizontal blind device having multiple tiers of slats extending horizontally and a bottom rail is described as an example. However, among electric horizontal blind devices, there are also roll screen-type electric blind devices (hereinafter referred to as electric roll screen devices) that unwind or retract a rolled-up sheet-like screen. Hereinafter, as a fifth embodiment, an electric roll screen device will be described as an electric blind device shown in the fifth embodiment.

[0248] Fifth Embodiment As shown in Figure 26(a) or 26(b), an electric roller shade device 250 is used as a room partition electric roller shade device installed on a base such as a counter or a table, for example. The electric roller shade device 250 has a frame body 251 and a sheet-like screen 252. The frame body 251 has a pair of vertically extending vertical frames 256, 257 whose upper ends are fixed to both ends of an upper frame 255 extending horizontally, and a middle rail 258 disposed below and along the upper frame 255 is fixed across the pair of vertical frames 256, 257. In addition, leg members 259, 260 are fixed to the lower ends of the pair of vertical frames 256, 257 of the frame body 251. The leg members 259, 260 may be the free-standing leg members shown in Figure 26, as well as fixed leg members for fixing the electric roller shade device 250 to a base, and leg members with casters that enable the electric roller shade device 250 to be moved to a predetermined position.

[0249] The frame body 251 has a winding drum 261 near the lower side of the upper frame 255. The winding drum 261 is axially supported across a pair of vertical frames 256, 257. The winding drum 261 rotates forward and backward when an elevation motor 270 (described later) is driven, thereby unwinding or winding the screen 252.

[0250] The screen 252 may be, for example, a light-blocking sheet or a transparent (including translucent) sheet. The screen 252 is used, for example, to block external light or to separate the area in which it is installed. Here, when the screen 252 is, for example, a transparent sheet, installing the electric roller blind device 250 between people facing each other can prevent droplet infection of viruses and the like.

[0251] The screen 252 has a weight bar 262 at its lower end. The weight bar 262 applies tension to the screen 252. By providing the weight bar 262 at the lower end of the screen 252, the wound screen becomes easier to peel off when the screen 252 is unwound, and at the same time, sagging of the unwound screen 252 is prevented. In addition, the screen 252 prevents wrinkles from occurring in the wound screen 252 when the screen 252 is wound up.

[0252] Of the pair of vertical frames 256, 257, the vertical frame 256 located on the left side in Figure 26(a) houses a battery 263 at its lower end. By providing the battery 263 at the lower end of the pair of vertical frames 256, 257, the center of gravity of the electric roller shade device 250 is lowered, preventing the electric roller shade device 250 from tipping over.

[0253] The battery 263 is connected to a control device 274 located above the battery 263 inside the vertical frame 256, and supplies power to each part of the electric roller shade device 250. The battery 263 is charged by, for example, connecting a charging USB cable (not shown) connected to an outlet to a USB port 264 exposed on the side of the vertical frame 256.

[0254] In addition, the vertical frame 256 has an operation panel 265 at its lower end. As shown in FIG. 27(a), the operation panel 265 has an ascent instruction section 265a that instructs the screen 252 to rise, and a descent instruction section 265b that instructs the screen 252 to fall. The ascent instruction section 265a has a sensor section 272 therein. The descent instruction section 265b has a sensor section 273 therein. The sensor sections 272 and 273 are, for example, proximity sensors that detect nearby objects in a non-contact manner and output a detection signal to the control device 274.

[0255] Next, the electrical configuration of the electric roller shade device 250 shown in the fifth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0256] 28, the electric roller blind device 250 has a lifting motor 270, an encoder 271, sensor units 272 and 273, a battery 263, a USB port 264, and a control device 274. The lifting motor 270 is disposed inside the winding drum 261. Although not shown, the lifting motor 270 transmits the driving force of the lifting motor 270 to the winding drum 261 by fixing an output shaft to a connecting member fixed to the inside of the winding drum 261. Here, the rotation of the winding drum 261 when unwinding the screen 252 is referred to as forward rotation, and the rotation of the winding drum 261 when winding the screen 252 is referred to as reverse rotation.

[0257] The encoder 271 is provided inside the winding drum 261 and detects the amount of rotation of the winding drum 261. As is well known, the encoder 271 has a disk-shaped slit plate and a photointerrupter. The disk-shaped slit plate is fixed inside the winding drum 261. The photointerrupter detects multiple slits in the slit plate as the slit plate rotates. When the photointerrupter detects the slits in the slit plate as the slit plate rotates, the encoder 271 outputs a pulse signal to the control device 274.

[0258] The control device 274 includes a CPU 275, a ROM 276, and a RAM 277. The CPU 275 executes a control program 278 stored in the ROM 276 to thereby perform the functions of a rotation amount calculation unit 280, a position calculation unit 281, and a drive control unit 282.

[0259] The rotation amount calculation unit 280 calculates the rotation amount of the winding drum 261 based on the pulse signal from the encoder 271 and by referring to table data (not shown) stored in the ROM 276 .

[0260] The position calculation unit 281 calculates the position of the weight bar 262. The position calculation unit 281 reads table data (not shown) that associates the amount of rotation of the winding drum 261 with the position of the weight bar from the ROM 276, and also reads information (not shown) on the stop position of the weight bar 262 from the RAM 277. Then, the position calculation unit 281 uses the read data and the amount of rotation of the winding drum calculated by the rotation amount calculation unit 280 to calculate the position of the weight bar 262 when the screen 252 is raised or lowered.

[0261] Drive control section 282 receives a detection signal output from either sensor section 272 arranged inside ascent instruction section 265a of operation panel 265 or sensor section 273 arranged inside descent instruction section 265b of operation panel 265, and controls the drive of lift motor 270. Hereinafter, the drive of lift motor 270 when rotating take-up drum 261 forward will be referred to as forward rotation drive, and the drive of lift motor 270 when rotating take-up drum 261 reverse will be referred to as reverse rotation drive.

[0262] The ROM 276 stores the control program 278 as well as table data that associates the rotation amount of the winding drum 261 with the position of the weight bar 262, for example.

[0263] The RAM 277 stores data calculated by the CPU 275. The RAM 277 also stores information on the stop position of the weight bar 262.

[0264] Next, the flow of processing when the electric roller blind device 250 is driven will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

[0265] Step S1201 is a process for determining whether or not there is detection by sensor unit 272. As shown in FIG. 27(b), when a user holds their hand over up-instruction section 265a of operation panel 265, sensor unit 272 arranged inside up-instruction section 265a detects the held hand. Sensor unit 272 outputs a detection signal indicating that the held hand has been detected to control device 274. In response to this, control device 274 determines the result of the determination process in step S1201 as Yes, and proceeds to the process of step S1202. If the user does not hold their hand over up-instruction section 265a of operation panel 265, the hand is not detected. Therefore, sensor unit 272 does not output a detection signal to control device 274. In this case, control device 274 determines the result of the determination process in step S1201 as No, and performs the process of step S1206.

[0266] Step S1202 is a process for driving the lift motor in reverse. The control device 274 drives the lift motor 270 in reverse. This causes the screen 252 to be wound onto the winding drum 261. That is, the screen 252 is raised.

[0267] Step S1203 is a process for determining whether the weight bar has reached the upper limit position. When the lift motor 270 is driven to rotate in reverse, the encoder 271 outputs a pulse signal to the control device 274. The control device 274 calculates the amount of rotation of the winding drum 261 from the input pulse signal. The control device 274 then reads, for example, table data correlating the amount of rotation of the winding drum 261 with the position of the weight bar 262 from the ROM 277 and information on the stop position of the weight bar 262 from the RAM 277, and calculates the position of the weight bar 262 using this data and the calculated amount of rotation of the winding drum. If the determined position of the weight bar 262 is the upper limit position, the control device 174 determines the result of the determination process in step S1203 as Yes and performs the process in step S1204.

[0268] In step S1204, the controller 274 stops the rotation of the elevator motor 270.

[0269] If it is determined in step S1203 above that the weight bar has not reached the upper limit position, the process proceeds to step S1205.

[0270] Step S1205 is a process for determining whether or not detection by sensor unit 273 has stopped. When raising screen 252 to a target position, the operator continues to hold his / her hand over lift instruction section 265a of operation panel 265. Then, when screen 252 has been raised to the position intended by the operator, the operator removes his / her hand, which was held over lift instruction section 265a of operation panel 265, from the sensor unit. When the operator removes his / her hand, which was held over lift instruction section 265a of operation panel 265, detection of the hand by sensor unit 273 stops. That is, output of a detection signal from sensor unit 273 to control device 274 stops.

[0271] When the input of the detection signal from the sensor unit 273 is stopped, the control device 274 determines the result of the determination process in step S1205 as Yes, and proceeds to the above-mentioned step S1204. That is, the driving of the lift motor 270 is stopped, and the lifting of the screen 252 is stopped.

[0272] On the other hand, if the detection signal continues to be input from the sensor unit 273, the control device 274 determines the result of the determination process in step S1205 as No, and returns to the process in step S1202. In this case, the lifting motor 270 continues to be driven, and the screen 252 is wound up. That is, the screen 252 is raised.

[0273] In the above-mentioned step S1201, if the sensor unit 272 does not output a detection signal, the control device 274 proceeds to step S1206.

[0274] Step S1206 is a process for determining whether or not there is detection by sensor unit 273. As shown in FIG. 27(c), when the user holds their hand over descent instruction section 265b of operation panel 265, sensor unit 273 arranged inside descent instruction section 265b detects the held hand. Sensor unit 273 outputs a detection signal indicating that the held hand has been detected to control device 274. In response to this, control device 274 determines the result of the determination process in step S1206 as Yes, and proceeds to the process of step S1207. If the user does not hold their hand over descent instruction section 265b of operation panel 265, the hand is not detected. Therefore, sensor unit 273 does not output a detection signal to control device 274. In this case, control device 274 determines the result of the determination process in step S1206 as No, and returns to step S1201. That is, if the hand is not held over either the up instruction portion 265a or the down instruction portion 265b of the operation panel 265, the determination processes of steps S1201 and S1206 are repeated in order.

[0275] Step S1207 is a process for driving the lift motor in the forward direction. The control device 274 drives the lift motor 270 in the forward direction. This causes the winding drum 261 to rotate in the forward direction, and the screen 252 is unwound. In other words, the screen 252 descends.

[0276] Step S1208 is a process for determining whether the weight bar has reached the lower limit position. When the lift motor 270 is driven to rotate in the forward direction, the encoder 271 outputs a pulse signal to the control device 274. The control device 274 calculates the amount of rotation of the winding drum 261 from the input pulse signal. The control device 274 then reads, for example, table data correlating the amount of rotation of the winding drum 261 with the position of the weight bar 262 from the ROM 277 and information on the stop position of the weight bar 262 from the RAM 277, and uses this data and the calculated amount of rotation of the winding drum to determine the position of the weight bar 262. If the calculated position of the weight bar 262 is the lower limit position, the control device 274 determines the result of the determination process in step S1208 as Yes and performs the process in step S1209.

[0277] In step S1209, the control device 274 stops the rotation of the elevator motor 270.

[0278] If it is determined in step S1208 above that the weight bar 262 has not reached the lower limit position, the control device 274 performs the process of step S1210.

[0279] Step S1210 is a process for determining whether or not detection by sensor unit 272 has stopped. When lowering screen 252 to a target position, the operator continues to hold his / her hand over lowering instruction unit 265b of operation panel 265. That is, when screen 252 has been lowered to the position intended by the operator, the operator removes his / her hand from lowering instruction unit 265b of operation panel 265. When the operator removes his / her hand from lowering instruction unit 265b of operation panel 265, detection of the hand by sensor unit 273 is stopped. That is, output of a detection signal from sensor unit 273 to control device 274 is stopped.

[0280] When the input of the detection signal from the sensor unit 273 is stopped, the control device 274 determines the result of the determination process in step S1210 as Yes and performs the process of step S1209 described above. Therefore, the driving of the lift motor 270 is stopped and the lowering of the screen 252 is stopped.

[0281] On the other hand, if the detection signal continues to be input from the sensor unit 273, the control device 274 determines the result of the determination process in step S1210 as No, and returns to the process in step S1207. In this case, the lift motor 270 continues to rotate in the forward direction, and the screen 252 is unfolded. That is, the screen 252 continues to descend.

[0282] In this way, screen 252 rises or falls by holding a hand over either rise instruction section 265a or fall instruction section 265b of operation panel 265. Furthermore, by removing a hand from either rise instruction section 265a or fall instruction section 265b of operation panel 265, the rise or fall of screen 252 stops.

[0283] Therefore, the operator can operate the electric blinds with the simple action of waving their hand, without the need for a wired switch or wireless remote control that may be touched by an unspecified number of people, or an operating device such as a tablet or wireless mobile terminal that works in conjunction with the electric blinds.Furthermore, because the electric blinds can be operated by simply waving one's hand, there is no need to directly touch the operating device, which reduces the risk of transmitting bacteria or viruses that may adhere to the surface of the operating device.

[0284] Sixth Embodiment In the fifth embodiment, a case has been described in which sensor units 272, 273 are provided inside the raising instruction unit 265a and the lowering instruction unit 265b provided on the operation panel 265, but the number of sensor units does not need to be limited to the above, and it is also possible to raise and lower the screen using, for example, one sensor unit. Below, a case in which the screen is raised and lowered using one sensor unit will be described.

[0285] The electric roller shade device 300 shown in the sixth embodiment has the same main configuration as the electric roller shade device 250 shown in the fifth embodiment. Therefore, in the following, the same reference numerals as in the fifth embodiment are used for components having the same functions as the electric roller shade device 250 shown in the fifth embodiment, and descriptions of those components will be omitted.

[0286] As shown in Fig. 30, an electric roller shade device 300 has a frame body 251 and a sheet-like screen 252. Of a pair of vertical frames 256, 257 that make up the frame body 251, the vertical frame 256 has an operation panel 301, and the vertical frame 257 has a display unit 302. In the sixth embodiment, the operation panel 301 is disposed on the vertical frame 256, and the display unit 302 is disposed on the vertical frame 257, but it is also possible to provide the operation panel 301 and the display unit 302 on the same vertical frame (in this case, either the vertical frame 256 or the vertical frame 257).

[0287] As shown in Fig. 31(a), operation panel 301 has instruction unit 301a. Instruction unit 301a has sensor unit 303 disposed therein. Sensor unit 303 is, for example, a proximity sensor that detects a nearby object in a non-contact manner and outputs a detection signal to control device 330 (see Fig. 32).

[0288] 30, the display unit 302 has, for example, LEDs 310, 311, 312, 313, 314, 315, 316, 317, 318, 319, and 320. These LEDs 310, 311, 312, 313, 314, 315, 316, 317, 318, 319, and 320 are arranged at predetermined intervals along the extension direction of the vertical frame 257. Furthermore, when any one of the LEDs 310, 311, 312, 313, 314, 315, 316, 317, 318, 319, and 320 is lit and a hand is held over the instruction unit 301a of the operation panel 301, the lit LED is switched at regular intervals.

[0289] For example, among LEDs 310, 311, 312, 313, 314, 315, 316, 317, 318, 319, and 320, the LED that lights up when no hand is held over it indicates the stopping position of weight bar 262 when screen 252 is stopped. Also, the LED that lights up after a hand held over indicator 301a of operation panel 201 is released indicates the stopping position of weight bar 262 after screen 252 has been raised or lowered. Hereinafter, the position of the top LED 310 is designated P1, and the position of the bottom LED 321 is designated P11.

[0290] In FIG. 30, an example is given in which 11 LEDs are arranged, but this is merely an example and any appropriate number of LEDs may be arranged.

[0291] Next, the electrical configuration of the electric roller shade device 300 shown in the sixth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0292] 32, the electric roller shade device 300 has a lifting motor 270, an encoder 271, a sensor unit 303, a display unit 302, a battery 263, a USB port 264, and a control device 330. Note that the lifting motor 270, the encoder 271, the battery 263, and the USB port 264 have the same configurations as those in the fifth embodiment, and therefore will not be described here.

[0293] The control device 330 includes a CPU 331, a ROM 332, and a RAM 333. The CPU 331 executes a control program 334 stored in the ROM 332 to perform the functions of a rotation amount calculation unit 335, a position calculation unit 336, a drive control unit 337, a timer unit 338, and a display control unit 339. Note that the rotation amount calculation unit 335, the position calculation unit 326, and the drive control unit 327 have the same configurations as the rotation amount calculation unit 280, the position calculation unit 281, and the drive control unit 282 shown in the fifth embodiment, and therefore descriptions thereof will be omitted here.

[0294] The timer 338 measures the time that has elapsed since the detection signal was input from the sensor 303. When the detection signal is no longer input from the sensor 303, the timer 338 stops measuring the elapsed time.

[0295] The display control unit 339 controls each of the multiple LEDs of the display unit 302. Specifically, the display control unit 339 lights up an LED that is at the same height as the stop position of the weight bar 262. Furthermore, the display control unit 339 turns off the lit LED and turns on one of the LEDs adjacent to the lit LED every time a certain amount of time, such as 5 seconds, measured by the timer unit 338 has elapsed. Note that the sixth embodiment shows a case in which, of the LEDs adjacent to the lit LED, the LED positioned below the lit LED is turned on.

[0296] 33, for example, a case will be described in which LED 314 at position P5 is lit and a hand is held over indicator 301a of operation panel 301. After a certain time has passed since the hand was held over indicator 301a of operation panel 301, LED 314 at position P5 goes out, and LED 315 at position P6, which is located below LED 314 at position P5, goes out. After a further certain time has passed, LED 315 at position P6 goes out, and LED 316 at position P7 goes out. In this way, after a certain time has passed, the lit LED goes out, and the LED located below the unlit LED goes out.

[0297] Then, after a certain time has passed since the LED 320 at the lowest position P11 was turned on, the LED 320 at position P11 is turned off and the LED 310 at the top position P1 is turned on. That is, the display unit 302 turns on the LEDs in the following order: "LED 310 at position P1 → LED 311 at position P2 →... → LED 320 at position P11 → LED 310 at position P1 →...".

[0298] The order in which the LEDs of the display unit 302 are turned on is not limited to the above, and the LEDs located above the turned-on LED may be turned on sequentially, that is, in the order of "LED 320 at position P11 → LED 319 at position P10 →... → LED 310 at position P1 → LED 320 at position P11 →...". Furthermore, when a certain time has passed since the lowest LED 320 at position P11 was turned on, the LEDs to be turned on may be switched in a loop, such as by turning on LED 319 at position P10.

[0299] The ROM 332 stores the control program 334 and also stores table data in which the number of pulse signals is associated with the amount of screen extension.

[0300] The RAM 333 temporarily stores data calculated by the CPU 331. The RAM 333 also stores information about the stop position of the weight bar 262.

[0301] Next, the flow of processing during driving of the electric roller blind device 300 shown in the sixth embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

[0302] Step S1301 is a process for determining whether or not there is detection by the sensor unit. As shown in FIG. 31(b), when the operator holds their hand over the instruction unit 301a of the operation panel 301, the sensor unit 303 detects the hand and outputs a detection signal to the control device 330. The control device 330 determines the result of the determination process in step S1301 as Yes, and proceeds to the process in step S1302. If the user does not hold their hand over the instruction unit 301a of the operation panel 301, the hand is not detected. Therefore, the sensor unit 303 does not output a detection signal to the control device 330. In other words, the control device 330 determines the result of the determination process in step S1301 as No. In this case, the determination process in step S1301 is repeatedly executed until the hand is held over the instruction unit 301a of the operation panel 301.

[0303] Step S1302 is a process for starting time measurement. The control device 330 starts time measurement.

[0304] Step S1303 is a process for determining whether a certain time has elapsed. The control device 330 checks the measured elapsed time and determines whether the certain time has elapsed. If the certain time has elapsed (reached), the control device 330 determines the result of the determination process in step S1303 as Yes. In this case, the control device 330 performs the process in step S1304. On the other hand, if the certain time has not elapsed, the control device 330 determines the result of the determination process in step S1303 as No. In this case, the control device 330 repeatedly executes the determination process in step S1303 until the certain time has elapsed.

[0305] Step S1304 is a process for checking the positions of the LEDs to be turned on. The control device 330 reads information on the positions of the LEDs to be turned on from the RAM 33 and checks the positions of the LEDs to be turned on.

[0306] Step S1305 is processing to determine whether the LED at position Pnmax (nmax=11) is lit. If the LED 320 at position P11 is lit, the control device 330 sets the result of the determination processing at step S1305 to Yes. In this case, the control device 330 performs processing at step S1306.

[0307] Step S1306 is a process of turning off the LED at position Pnmax and turning on the LED at position P1. The control device 330 turns off the LED 320 at position P11 and turns on the LED 310 at position P1.

[0308] On the other hand, if the LED 320 at the position P11 is turned off in the determination process of step S1305, the control device 330 determines the result of the determination process of step S1305 as No. In this case, the control device 330 performs the process of step S1307.

[0309] Step S1307 is a process of turning off the LED at position Pn (n=1...10) and turning on the LED at position Pn+1. The control device 330 turns off the LED at position Pn and turns on the LED at position Pn+1.

[0310] Step S1308 is a process for determining whether detection by the sensor unit has stopped. When the operator removes his / her hand from the instruction unit 301a of the operation panel 301, the sensor unit 303 stops detecting the hand. That is, the sensor unit 303 stops outputting the detection signal to the control device 330. When the input of the detection signal from the sensor unit 303 is stopped, the control device 330 sets the result of the determination process of step S1308 to Yes. At this time, the control device 330 temporarily stores information about the position of the lit LED in RAM 333. Then, the control device 330 performs the process of step S1309.

[0311] On the other hand, if the operator continues to hold his / her hand over the instruction unit 301a of the operation panel 301, the sensor unit 303 continues to output the detection signal to the control device 330. Therefore, the control device 330 determines the result of the determination process in step S1308 as No, and returns to step S1303. In this case, the lit LED is switched every time a certain period of time elapses.

[0312] Step S1309 is a process for driving the lift motor. The control device 330 drives the lift motor 270 to rotate forward or reverse based on information about the position of the weight bar 262 and information about the position of the lit LED. That is, when the position of the weight bar is above the position of the lit LED, the control device 330 drives the lift motor 270 to rotate forward. On the other hand, when the position of the weight bar is below the position of the lit LED, the control device 330 drives the lift motor 270 to rotate reverse.

[0313] Step S1310 is a process for determining whether the weight bar has moved to the position of the illuminated LED. When the lift motor 270 is driven, the encoder 271 outputs a pulse signal to the control device 330. The control device 330 calculates the rotation amount of the winding drum 261 from the input pulse signal. The control device 330 calculates the payout amount of the screen 252 from the rotation amount of the winding drum 261. The control device 330 calculates the current position of the weight bar 262 from the calculated payout amount of the screen 252 and information about the position of the weight bar 262 before the lift motor 270 was driven. The control device 330 determines whether the position of the weight bar 262 matches the position of the illuminated LED. If the position of the weight bar 262 matches the position of the illuminated LED, the control device 330 determines the result of the determination process in step S1310 as Yes and performs the process in step S1311. On the other hand, if the position of the wait bar 262 does not match the position of the lit LED, the control device 330 determines the result of the determination process in step S1310 as No. In this case, the control device 330 repeatedly executes the determination process in step S1310 until the position of the wait bar 262 matches the position of the lit LED.

[0314] Step S1311 is a process for stopping the driving of the lift motor. The control device 330 stops the driving of the lift motor 270. Therefore, the rising or falling of the screen 252 stops.

[0315] In this way, the operator continues to hold their hand over the indicator 301a of the operation panel 301 to light up the LED at the intended position among the multiple LEDs on the display unit 302. Then, the operator removes their hand from the indicator of the operation panel. This action causes the screen 252 to rise or fall, and the weight bar 262 attached to the bottom end of the screen 252 moves to the height of the lit LED.

[0316] Therefore, the operator can operate the electric blinds with the simple action of waving their hand, without the need for a wired switch or wireless remote control that may be touched by an unspecified number of people, or an operating device such as a tablet or wireless mobile terminal that links to the electric blinds. Furthermore, by waving their hand, the weight bar 262 of the screen 252 can be moved to the position selected by the operator. This means that there is no need to operate multiple operating units, making operation easy. Furthermore, since there is no need to directly touch the operating device, the risk of transmitting bacteria or viruses that may adhere to the surface of the operating device is reduced.

[0317] The first to fourth embodiments exemplify an electric blind device having multiple slats extending horizontally and a bottom rail, while the fifth and sixth embodiments exemplify an electric roller blind device. However, the electric blind device is not limited to these, and may also be an electric blind device using a screen that can be folded in a zigzag shape, i.e., a pleated screen.

[0318] Hereinafter, a seventh embodiment will be described of an electric blind device using a pleated screen that individually raises and lowers two tiers of shielding materials (screens) arranged side by side in the vertical direction. Hereinafter, in the seventh embodiment, the electric blind device will be described as an electric pleated screen device. In this embodiment, the upper screen corresponds to the upper shading section described in the claims, and the lower screen corresponds to the lower shading section described in the claims.

[0319] Seventh Embodiment As shown in Figures 35(a) and 35(b), an electric pleated screen device 350 has a blind body 351 and an operating device 352. The blind body 351 has an upper screen 355, an intermediate rail 356, a lower screen 357, a bottom rail 358, and a head box 359.

[0320] The upper screen 355 is suspended and supported so as to be bendable in a zigzag shape from the lower surface of the head box 359. The intermediate rail 356 is attached to the lower end of the upper screen 355. The intermediate rail 356 functions as a weight member for the upper screen 355.

[0321] The lower screen 357 is suspended and supported so as to be bendable in a zigzag shape from the lower surface of the intermediate rail 356. The bottom rail 358 is attached to the lower end of the lower screen 357. The bottom rail 358 functions as a weight member for the lower screen 357.

[0322] The upper screen 355 has protruding pieces 360 provided at the folds on the outside of the fabric, which is folded in a zigzag pattern. The protruding pieces 360 have round or elongated insertion holes (not shown) in two locations. Lifting cords 361, 362 hanging down from the head box 359 are inserted through the insertion holes. By inserting the lifting cords into the insertion holes of the protruding pieces 360 provided at the folds on the outside of the room, the lifting cords 361, 362 cannot be seen from inside the room.

[0323] On the outdoor side, intermediate rail 356 is attached the lower ends of the above-mentioned lifting / lowering cords 361 and the lower ends of pitch maintaining cords 363 hanging down from head box 359. Pitch maintaining cords 363 have a plurality of annular support cords 364 spaced at regular intervals. Lifting / lowering cords 361, 362 are inserted through annular support cords 364. When intermediate rail 356 is lowered to stretch upper screen 355, annular support cords 364 support protruding pieces 360 of the folds of upper screen 355 from below, thereby maintaining a regular interval between the folds of upper screen 355 as it is stretched.

[0324] Like the upper screen 355, the lower screen 357 has protruding pieces 365 provided at the folds on the outside of the room of the zigzag-folded fabric. The protruding pieces 365 have insertion holes such as round or elongated holes. A lifting cord 362 hanging down from the head box 359 is inserted into the insertion holes 365. By inserting the lifting cord 362 into the insertion holes of the protruding pieces 365 provided at the folds on the outside of the room, the lifting cord 362 cannot be seen from inside the room.

[0325] On the outdoor side, bottom rail 358 is attached with the lower ends of the above-mentioned lifting / lowering cords 362 and the lower ends of pitch maintaining cords 369 hanging down from intermediate rail 356. Pitch maintaining cords 369 have a plurality of annular support cords 370 spaced at regular intervals. Lifting / lowering cords 362 are inserted through annular support cords 370. When bottom rail 358 is lowered to stretch lower screen 357, annular support cords 370 support protruding pieces 365 of the folds of lower screen 357 from below, thereby maintaining a regular interval between the folds of lower screen 357 as it is stretched.

[0326] As shown in FIG. 35( c), the head box 359 has a lifting mechanism 372 that raises and lowers the upper screen 355, and a lifting mechanism 373 that raises and lowers the lower screen 357. The lifting mechanism 372 has two lifting drums 375, a drive shaft 376, a lifting motor 377, and an encoder 378. Similarly, the lifting mechanism 373 has two lifting drums 380, a drive shaft 381, a lifting motor 382, ​​and an encoder 383. In the lifting mechanism 372, the output shaft of the lifting motor 377 is connected to the drive shaft 376 by a coupler 385. Similarly, in the lifting mechanism 373, the output shaft of the lifting motor 382 is connected to the drive shaft 381 by a coupler 386.

[0327] Hereinafter, the lifting motor of the lifting mechanism 372 will be referred to as an upper fabric lifting motor 377, and the lifting motor of the lifting mechanism 373 will be referred to as a lower fabric lifting motor 382.

[0328] The two lifting drums 375 are fixed to a drive shaft 376 with a predetermined gap between them. A lifting cord 361 is wound around the lifting drums 375. The lifting drums 375 rotate when the lifting motor 377 is driven, and wind or unwind the lifting cord 361. The intermediate rail 356 is raised or lowered by winding or unwinding the lifting cord 361 in accordance with the rotation of the lifting drums 375.

[0329] The upper fabric lifting motor 377 is an actuator that rotates the two lifting drums 375. As described above, the output shaft of the upper fabric lifting motor 377 is connected to the drive shaft 376 via the coupler 385. Therefore, the rotation of the output shaft of the upper fabric lifting motor 377 is transmitted to the drive shaft 376.

[0330] Encoder 378 outputs a pulse signal for detecting the amount of rotation of drive shaft 376 to control device 390. Encoder 378 has a disk-shaped slit plate fixed to drive shaft 376 and a photointerrupter, and detects multiple slits provided in the slit plate when the slit plate rotates. As a result, encoder 378 outputs a pulse signal to control device 420 in response to detection of each of the multiple slits.

[0331] The two lifting drums 380 are fixed to a drive shaft 381 with a predetermined gap between them. A lifting cord 362 is wound around the lifting drums 380. When the lifting motor 382 is driven, the lifting drums 380 rotate to wind or unwind the lifting cord 362. The bottom rail 358 is raised or lowered by the winding or unwinding of the lifting cord 362 as the lifting drums 380 rotate.

[0332] The lower fabric lifting motor 382 is an actuator that rotates the two lifting drums 380. As described above, the output shaft of the lower fabric lifting motor 382 is connected to the drive shaft 381 via the coupler 386. Therefore, the rotation of the output shaft of the lower fabric lifting motor 382 is transmitted to the drive shaft 381.

[0333] Encoder 383 outputs a pulse signal for detecting the amount of rotation of drive shaft 381 to control device 420. Encoder 383 has a disk-shaped slit plate fixed to drive shaft 376 and a photointerrupter, and detects multiple slits provided in the slit plate when the slit plate rotates. As a result, encoder 383 outputs a pulse signal to control device 420 in response to detection of each of the multiple slits.

[0334] The operating device 352 can perform operations such as raising and lowering the intermediate rail 356 and the bottom rail 358, and stopping these operations. As shown in Fig. 36(a), the operating device 352 has an operating unit 400, a sensor unit 401, and a display unit 402. The operating unit 400, the sensor unit 401, and the display unit 402 are arranged in this order from above: display unit 402, operating unit 400, sensor unit 401.

[0335] The operation unit 400 includes a first operation unit 403 that raises and lowers and stops the upper screen 355, and a second operation unit 404 that raises and lowers and stops the lower screen 357. The first operation unit 403 includes an operation button (hereinafter referred to as an "up button") 406 that raises the intermediate rail 356, an operation button (hereinafter referred to as a "down button") 407 that lowers the intermediate rail 356, and an operation button (hereinafter referred to as a "stop button") 408 that stops the raising and lowering of the intermediate rail 356.

[0336] The second operating unit 404 includes an operating button (hereinafter referred to as the up button) 411 for raising the bottom rail 358, an operating button (hereinafter referred to as the down button) 412 for lowering the bottom rail 358, and an operating button (hereinafter referred to as the stop button) 413 for stopping the raising and lowering of the bottom rail 358.

[0337] The operation unit 400 has the first operation unit 403 and second operation unit 404 described above, as well as a switching button 414. When multiple electric pleated screen devices 350 are operated with one operation device 352, the switching button 414 is operated to switch between the electric pleated screen devices 350 to be operated.

[0338] The sensor unit 401 detects, in a non-contact manner, an object approaching the operating device 352. The sensor unit 401 is, for example, an infrared sensor or a proximity sensor.

[0339] The display unit 402 displays, for example, either the operation content corresponding to the operation button that is pressed among the operation buttons provided on the operation unit 400, or the operation content corresponding to the detection time at which an object is detected by the sensor unit 401.

[0340] As shown in FIG. 36(b), for example, when the stop button 408 of the first operation unit 403 or the stop button 413 of the second operation unit 404 is operated, the display unit 402 displays "STOP".

[0341] 36(c), for example, when the lowering button 412 of the second operating unit 404 is operated, the display unit 402 displays "lower fabric lowering" or "▼", etc. The lower fabric corresponds to the lower screen 357.

[0342] 36(d), for example, when the down button 407 of the first operation unit 403 is operated, the display unit 402 displays "upper fabric down" or "▼", etc. The upper fabric corresponds to the upper screen 355.

[0343] As shown in FIG. 36(e), for example, when the lift button 406 of the first operating section 403 is operated, the display section 402 displays "Lift upper fabric" or "▲" or the like.

[0344] As shown in FIG. 36(f), for example, when the lift button 411 of the second operation unit 404 is operated, the display unit 402 displays "Lift upper fabric" or "▲" or the like.

[0345] The displays shown in FIGS. 36(a) to 36(e) are displayed on the display unit 402 while being switched every time a certain period of time elapses in the sensor unit 401.

[0346] FIG. 37 is a functional block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the electric pleated screen device shown in the seventh embodiment.

[0347] 37, the electric pleated screen device 350 has a blind main body 351 and an operating device 352. The blind main body 351 has a control device 420 in addition to the lifting mechanisms 372 and 373 described above.

[0348] The control device 420 includes a CPU 421, a ROM 422, a RAM 423, and a communication unit 424. The CPU 421 executes a control program 425 to thereby perform the functions of a rotation amount calculation unit 426, a position calculation unit 427, and a drive control unit 428.

[0349] Based on the pulse signals from the encoders 378 and 383, the rotation amount calculation unit 426 refers to table data (not shown) stored in the ROM 422 to calculate the rotation amount of the drive shaft 376 of the lifting mechanism 372 and the rotation amount of the drive shaft 381 of the lifting mechanism 373.

[0350] The position calculation unit 427 calculates the position of the intermediate rail 356 from the amount of rotation of the drive shaft 376 of the lifting mechanism 372 calculated by the rotation amount calculation unit 426. Specifically, the position calculation unit 427 calculates the amount of reeling out of the lifting cord 361 from the amount of rotation of the drive shaft 376 of the lifting mechanism 372 calculated by the rotation amount calculation unit 426. The amount of reeling out of the lifting cord 361 from the lifting drum 375 is proportional to the amount of rotation of the drive shaft 376. Furthermore, if the intermediate rail 356 is at its uppermost position, which is a reference position, the amount of reeling out of the lifting cord 361 is the amount of movement of the intermediate rail 356 from the reference position. Therefore, the position of the intermediate rail 356 can be determined by calculating the amount of reeling out of the lifting cord 361. Similarly, the position calculation unit 427 calculates the position of the bottom rail 358 from the amount of rotation of the drive shaft 381 of the lifting mechanism 373 calculated by the rotation amount calculation unit 426.

[0351] The drive control unit 428 receives an operation signal transmitted from the operating device 352 and controls the driving of the upper fabric lifting motor 377 or the lower fabric lifting motor 382.

[0352] The ROM 422 stores the control program 425 and also stores table data in which the number of pulse signals is associated with the amount of extension of the lift cord. The RAM 423 temporarily stores data calculated by the CPU 421. The communication unit 424 receives an operation signal transmitted from the operating device 352.

[0353] The operation device 352 includes an operation unit 400 , a sensor unit 401 , a display unit 402 , a CPU 430 , a ROM 431 , a RAM 432 , and a communication unit 433 .

[0354] The CPU 430 executes an operation program 434 stored in the ROM 431 to thereby have the functions of a control unit 435 and a timer unit 436 .

[0355] When any of the operation buttons on the operation unit 400 is operated, the control unit 435 transmits an operation signal corresponding to the operated operation button to the blind main body 351 via the communication unit 433. Furthermore, the control unit 435 receives a detection signal from the sensor unit 401 to control the display on the display unit 402, and when the detection signal from the sensor unit 401 is stopped, transmits an operation signal based on the display on the display unit 402 to the blind main body 351 via the communication unit 433.

[0356] The timer 436 receives the detection signal from the sensor 401 and measures the time since the detection signal was output.

[0357] For example, if the time that has elapsed since the approaching hand was detected is, for example, 0.2 to 0.5 seconds, the control unit 435 displays "STOP" on the display unit 402 (see FIG. 36(b)). If the time that has elapsed since the approaching hand was detected is, for example, 1 second, the control unit 435 displays "Lower fabric lowered," "▼," or the like on the display unit 402 (see FIG. 36(c)). If the time that has elapsed since the approaching hand was detected is, for example, 3 seconds, the control unit 435 displays "Upper fabric lowered," "▼," or the like on the display unit 402 (see FIG. 36(d)).

[0358] Furthermore, if the time that has elapsed since the approaching hand was detected is, for example, 5 seconds, control unit 435 displays "upper fabric lift," "▲," or the like on display unit 402 (see FIG. 36(e)). If the time that has elapsed since the approaching hand was detected is, for example, 7 seconds, control unit 435 displays "lower fabric lift," "▲," or the like on display unit 402 (see FIG. 36(f)).

[0359] After this display, when, for example, 9 seconds have elapsed since the detection of the approaching hand, control unit 435 displays "STOP" on display unit 402. Then, after "STOP" is displayed for the second time on display unit 402, control unit 435 switches the display on display unit 402 in the following order every time 2 seconds elapses: "Lower fabric lower" → "Upper fabric lower" → "Upper fabric lift" → "Lower fabric lift" → "Stop" → ...

[0360] Next, we will explain the processing flow when the electric pleated screen device 350 is driven. First, the processing flow in the operating device 352 will be explained based on the flowchart in Figure 38. Below, we will explain the case where the blind body 351 is operated based on the detection of an object by the sensor unit 401, rather than by the pressing operation on the operating unit 400.

[0361] Step S1401 is a process for determining whether or not there is detection by the sensor unit. When a hand is held near the sensor unit 401 of the operation device 352, the sensor unit 401 detects the hand. When the sensor unit 401 detects the hand, the sensor unit 401 outputs a detection signal to the CPU 421. When the detection signal is input from the sensor unit 401, the CPU 421 determines the result of the determination process in step S1401 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1402. On the other hand, when a detection signal is not input from the sensor unit 401, the CPU 421 determines the result of the determination process in step S1401 as No. In this case, the CPU 421 repeatedly executes the determination process in step S1401.

[0362] Step S1402 is a process for starting timekeeping. The CPU 421 starts timekeeping.

[0363] Step S1403 is a process for determining whether a certain time has elapsed. In step S1403, the certain time is, for example, 0.2 to 0.5 seconds after the start of timing. If the certain time has elapsed since the start of timing, the CPU 421 determines the result of the determination process in step S1403 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1404. On the other hand, if the certain time has not elapsed since the start of timing, the CPU 421 determines the result of the determination process in step S1403 as No. In this case, the determination process in step S1403 is repeatedly executed until the certain time has elapsed.

[0364] Step S1404 is a process for displaying "STOP" on the display unit. The CPU 421 controls the display unit 402 to display "STOP" (see FIG. 36(b)).

[0365] Step S1405 is a process for determining whether or not detection by the sensor unit 401 has ended. If the sensor unit 401 continues to output a detection signal, the CPU 421 determines the result of the determination process in step S1405 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1406. On the other hand, if the output of the detection signal from the sensor unit 401 has stopped, the CPU 421 determines the result of the determination process in step S1405 as No. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1419.

[0366] Step S1406 is a process for determining whether a certain time has elapsed. In step S1406, the certain time is, for example, one second from the start of timekeeping. If the certain time has elapsed since the start of timekeeping, the CPU 421 determines the result of the determination process in step S1406 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1407. On the other hand, if the certain time has not elapsed since the start of timekeeping, the CPU 421 determines the result of the determination process in step S1406 as No. In this case, the determination process in step S1406 is repeatedly executed until the certain time has elapsed.

[0367] Step S1407 is a process for displaying "UP" on the display unit. The CPU 421 controls the display unit 402 to display "UP / DOWN fabric DOWN", "▼", etc. (see FIG. 36(c)).

[0368] Step S1408 is a process for determining whether or not detection by the sensor unit has ended. If the sensor unit 401 continues to output a detection signal, the CPU 421 determines the result of the determination process in step S1408 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1409. On the other hand, if the output of the detection signal from the sensor unit 401 has stopped, the CPU 421 determines the result of the determination process in step S1408 as No. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1419.

[0369] Step S1409 is a process for determining whether a certain period of time has elapsed. In step S1409, the certain period of time is, for example, three seconds from the start of timing. If the certain period of time has elapsed since timing started, the CPU 421 determines the result of the determination process in step S1409 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1410. On the other hand, if the certain period of time has not elapsed since timing started, the CPU 421 determines the result of the determination process in step S1409 as No. In this case, the determination process in step S1409 is repeatedly executed until the certain period of time has elapsed.

[0370] Step S1410 is a process for displaying "Underlay fabric lowered" on the display unit. The CPU 421 controls the display unit 402 to display "Underlay fabric lowered", "▼", etc. (see FIG. 36(d)).

[0371] Step S1411 is a process for determining whether or not detection by the sensor unit 401 has ended. If the sensor unit 401 continues to output a detection signal, the CPU 421 determines the result of the determination process in step S1411 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1412. On the other hand, if the output of the detection signal from the sensor unit 401 has stopped, the CPU 421 determines the result of the determination process in step S1411 as No. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1419.

[0372] Step S1412 is a process for determining whether a certain time has elapsed. In step S1412, the certain time is, for example, 5 seconds from the start of timing. If the certain time has elapsed since the start of timing, the CPU 421 determines the result of the determination process in step S1412 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1413. On the other hand, if the certain time has not elapsed since the start of timing, the CPU 421 determines the result of the determination process in step S1412 as No. In this case, the determination process in step S1412 is repeatedly executed until the certain time has elapsed.

[0373] Step S1413 is a process for displaying "upper fabric lift" on the display unit. The CPU 421 controls the display unit 402 to display "upper fabric lift", "▲", etc. (see FIG. 36(e)).

[0374] Step S1414 is a process for determining whether or not detection by the sensor unit 401 has ended. If the sensor unit 401 continues to output a detection signal, the CPU 421 determines the result of the determination process in step S1414 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1415. On the other hand, if the output of the detection signal from the sensor unit 401 has stopped, the CPU 421 determines the result of the determination process in step S1414 as No. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1419.

[0375] Step S1415 is a process for determining whether a certain time has elapsed. In step S1415, the certain time is, for example, 7 seconds from the start of timing. If the certain time has elapsed since the start of timing, the CPU 421 determines the result of the determination process in step S1415 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1416. On the other hand, if the certain time has not elapsed since the start of timing, the CPU 421 determines the result of the determination process in step S1415 as No. In this case, the determination process in step S1415 is repeatedly executed until the certain time has elapsed.

[0376] Step S1416 is a process for displaying "lower fabric lift" on the display unit. CPU 421 controls display unit 402 to display "lower fabric lift", "▲", etc. (see FIG. 36(f)).

[0377] Step S1417 is a process for determining whether or not detection by the sensor unit 401 has ended. If the sensor unit 401 continues to output a detection signal, the CPU 421 determines the result of the determination process in step S1417 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1418. On the other hand, if the output of the detection signal from the sensor unit 401 has stopped, the CPU 421 determines the result of the determination process in step S1417 as No. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1419.

[0378] Step S1418 is a process for determining whether a certain time has elapsed. In step S1418, the certain time is, for example, 9 seconds from the start of timing. If the certain time has elapsed since the start of timing, the CPU 421 determines the result of the determination process in step S1418 as Yes. In this case, the process returns to step S1404. On the other hand, if the certain time has not elapsed since the start of timing, the CPU 421 determines the result of the determination process in step S1418 as No. In this case, the determination process in step S1418 is repeatedly executed until the certain time has elapsed.

[0379] If the result of the judgment process in step S1418 is Yes, when a hand is detected by the sensor unit 401, the display on the display unit 402 is switched every two seconds, in other words, every 9, 11, 13, 15, etc. seconds after the start of timing.

[0380] Step S1419 is a process of transmitting an operation signal based on the display. The CPU 421 transmits an operation signal based on the operation content displayed on the display unit 402 to the control device 420 of the blind main body 351.

[0381] Next, the processing flow of the blind main body 351 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

[0382] Step S1501 is a process for determining whether or not an operation signal has been received. The control device 420 receives an operation signal transmitted from the operation device 352. Therefore, if an operation signal has been received from the operation device 352, the control device 420 determines the result of the determination process in step S1501 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1502. On the other hand, if an operation signal has not been received from the operation device 352, the result of the determination process in step S1501 is No. In this case, the control device 420 continues to execute the determination process in step S1501.

[0383] Step S1502 is a process for determining whether the operation content indicates "lowering the bottom fabric." If the operation content based on the operation signal indicates "lowering the bottom fabric," the control device 420 determines the result of the determination process in step S1502 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1503. On the other hand, if the operation content based on the operation signal indicates something other than "lowering the bottom fabric," the control device 420 determines the result of the determination process in step S1502 as No. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1504.

[0384] Step S1503 is a process for driving the lower fabric lift motor in the forward direction. The control device 420 drives the lower fabric lift motor 382 in the forward direction. As a result, the lift drum 380 rotates and the lift cord 362 is unwound. This causes the bottom rail 358 to descend. At this time, the lower screen 357 is stretched from its lower end. During this process, of the protruding pieces 365 provided on the multiple folds of the lower screen 357, the protruding piece 365 at the lower end is supported by the support cord 370 of the pitch maintaining cord 369 in order, starting from the lowest protruding piece 365.

[0385] If the determination in step S1502 is No, the process proceeds to step S1504. Step S1504 is a process for determining whether the operation content indicates "lowering upper fabric." If the operation content based on the operation signal indicates "lowering upper fabric," the control device 420 determines the result of the determination process in step S1504 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1505. On the other hand, if the operation content based on the operation signal indicates something other than "lowering upper fabric," the control device 420 determines the result of the determination process in step S1504 as No. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1506.

[0386] Step S1505 is a process for driving the upper fabric lift motor in the forward direction. The control device 420 drives the upper fabric lift motor 377 in the forward direction. As a result, the lift drum 375 rotates in the forward direction, and the lift cord 361 is unwound. This causes the intermediate rail 356 to descend. At this time, the upper screen 355 is stretched. During this process, of the protruding pieces 360 provided on the multiple folds of the upper screen 355, the protruding pieces 360 at the lowermost ends are supported by the support cords 364 of the pitch maintaining cords 363 in order.

[0387] If the determination in step S1504 is No, the process proceeds to step S1506. Step S1506 is a process for determining whether the operation content indicates "upper fabric lift." If the operation content based on the operation signal indicates "upper fabric lift," the control device 420 sets the result of the determination process in step S1506 to Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1507. On the other hand, if the operation content based on the operation signal indicates something other than "upper fabric lift," the control device 420 sets the result of the determination process in step S1506 to No. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1508.

[0388] Step S1507 is a process for driving the upper fabric lift motor in reverse. The control device 420 drives the upper fabric lift motor 377 in reverse. As a result, the lift drum 375 rotates in reverse and the lift cord 361 is wound up. This causes the intermediate rail 356 to rise. At this time, the upper screen 355 is pushed up onto the intermediate rail 356 and folded from below.

[0389] If the determination in step S1506 is No, the process proceeds to step S1508. Step S1508 is a process for determining whether the operation content indicates "lower fabric lift." If the operation content based on the operation signal indicates "lower fabric lift," the control device 420 sets the result of the determination process in step S1508 to Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1509. On the other hand, if the operation content based on the operation signal indicates something other than "lower fabric lift," the control device 420 sets the result of the determination process in step S1508 to No. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1510.

[0390] Step S1509 is a process for driving the lower fabric lift motor in reverse. The control device 420 drives the lower fabric lift motor 382 in reverse. As a result, the lift drum 380 rotates in reverse and the lift cord 362 is wound up. This causes the bottom rail 358 to rise. At this time, the lower screen 357 is pushed up by the bottom rail 358 and folded from below.

[0391] If the action content based on the action signal indicates "stop," that is, the results of the determination processes in steps S1502, S1504, S1506, and S1508 are No. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1510.

[0392] Step S1510 is a process for stopping the lift motor that is being driven. The control device 420 stops the drive of the lift motor that is being driven, either the upper fabric lift motor 377 or the lower fabric lift motor 382. When the control device 420 performs the process of step S1510, for example, the driving lift motor is stopped, and the lifting and lowering of the intermediate rail 356 or the bottom rail 358 is stopped.

[0393] In this way, it is possible to operate the blind body 351 by simply waving your hand over it, without having to touch the operating device 352. This makes it possible to prevent the transmission of bacteria, viruses, and the like that may be attached to the operating device 352.

[0394] Furthermore, by providing the operating device 352 with a display unit 402 that displays the operation of the blind main body 351 being operated, the operation of the blind main body 351 can be easily seen. As a result, when the operator releases the operating device 352 after the operation intended by the operator is displayed on the display unit 402, the operation intended by the operator is executed by the blind main body 351. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the blind main body 351 from malfunctioning.

[0395] The operating device 352 has an operating section 400 with multiple operating buttons, and can give priority to transmitting operation signals based on the operating section 400 to the blind main body 351. As a result, if it is necessary to operate the operating section 400 of the operating device 352 while the blind main body 351 is operating using the sensor section 401, the operation based on the operating section 400 takes priority. Therefore, if the intermediate rail 356 or the bottom rail 358 is raised or lowered more than necessary, the operating section 400 can be operated to return it to an appropriate state or to stop it.

[0396] The operation device 352 disclosed in the seventh embodiment described above has an operation unit (first operation unit 403) for raising and lowering the upper screen 355, and an operation unit (second operation unit 404) for raising and lowering the lower screen 357. However, the operation device may be one in which the upper screen 355 and the lower screen 357 are operated by the same operation unit.

[0397] An electric pleated screen device having an operating device that operates both the upper screen 355 and the lower screen 357 from the same operating section will be described below as an eighth embodiment.

[0398] Eighth Embodiment As shown in Figures 40(a), 40(b), and 40(c), the electric pleated blind device 445 shown in the eighth embodiment is composed of a blind main body 449 and an operating device 450 described below. Since the device configuration of the blind main body 449 is the same as that of the device main body shown in the seventh embodiment, the components of the blind main body 449 will be described below using the same reference numerals as those of the blind main body 351 shown in the seventh embodiment. Furthermore, only the configuration of the operating device 450 will be described below.

[0399] As shown in Fig. 41(a), the operating device 450 has an operating unit 451, a sensor unit 452, and a display unit 453. Note that Fig. 41(a) shows a case where the display unit 453, operating unit 451, and sensor unit 452 are arranged in this order from above.

[0400] The operation unit 451 includes an operation button (hereinafter referred to as the up button) 456 for raising the intermediate rail 356 or the bottom rail 358, an operation button (hereinafter referred to as the down button) 457 for lowering the intermediate rail 356 or the bottom rail 358, and an operation button (hereinafter referred to as the stop button) 458 for stopping the raising and lowering of the intermediate rail 356 and the bottom rail 358.

[0401] In addition to the above-mentioned operation buttons, the operation unit 451 has a switching button 459. The switching button 459 is operated when switching between electric pleated screen devices 445 to be operated when multiple electric pleated screen devices 445 are operated with one operation device.

[0402] The sensor unit 452 detects, in a non-contact manner, an object approaching the operating device 450. The sensor unit 452 is, for example, an infrared sensor or a proximity sensor.

[0403] The display unit 453 displays, for example, either the operation content corresponding to the operation button that is pressed among the operation buttons provided on the operation unit 451, or the operation content corresponding to the detection time at which an object is detected by the sensor unit 452.

[0404] As shown in FIG. 41(b), for example, when the stop button 458 of the operation unit 451 is operated, the display unit 453 displays "STOP".

[0405] As shown in FIG. 41(c), for example, when the down button 457 of the operation unit 451 is operated, the display unit 453 displays "down" or "▼".

[0406] As shown in FIG. 41(d), for example, when the up button 456 of the operation unit 451 is operated, the display unit 453 displays "up" or "▲".

[0407] FIG. 42 is a functional block diagram showing the electrical configuration of an electric pleated screen device 445 according to the eighth embodiment.

[0408] Similar to the blind body 351 of the electric pleated screen device shown in the seventh embodiment, the blind body 449 has lifting mechanisms 372, 373 and a control device 470. A description of the lifting mechanisms 372, 373 will be omitted.

[0409] The control device 470 has a CPU 471, a ROM 472, a RAM 473, and a communication unit 474. By executing a control program 476, the CPU 471 has the functions of a rotation amount calculation unit 481, a position calculation unit 482, a drive control unit 483, and an operation determination unit 484. The functions of the rotation amount calculation unit 481, the position calculation unit 482, and the drive control unit 483 are the same as the functions of the rotation amount calculation unit 426, the position calculation unit 427, and the drive control unit 428 shown in the seventh embodiment.

[0410] When the operation determination unit 484 receives an operation signal from the operating device 450, it checks the drive status of the upper fabric lifting motor 377 and the lower fabric lifting motor 382, ​​and determines the operation of the blind body 449 based on the confirmed drive status and the received operation signal.

[0411] The operation device 450 has a CPU 490, a ROM 491, a RAM 492, and a communication unit 493 in addition to an operation unit 451, a sensor unit 452, and a display unit 453. The CPU 490 has the functions of a control unit 495 and a clock unit 496 by executing a control program 494 stored in the ROM 491. Here, the control unit 495 and the clock unit 496 of the CPU 490 have the same functions as the control unit 435 and the clock unit 436 of the CPU 430 shown in the seventh embodiment.

[0412] Next, we will explain the processing flow when the electric pleated screen device 445 is driven. First, we will explain the processing flow in the operating device based on the flowchart in Figure 43. Below, we will explain the case where the blind body 449 is driven based on the detection of an object by the sensor unit, rather than by the pressing operation of the operating unit.

[0413] Step S1601 is a process for determining whether or not there is detection by the sensor unit. When a hand is held near sensor unit 452 of operation device 450, sensor unit 452 detects the hand. When sensor unit 452 detects the hand, a detection signal is output from sensor unit 452 to CPU 490. When a detection signal is input from sensor unit 452, CPU 490 determines the result of the determination process of step S1601 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1602. On the other hand, when a detection signal is not input from sensor unit 452, CPU 490 determines the result of the determination process of step S1601 as No. In this case, CPU 490 repeatedly executes the determination process of step S1601.

[0414] In step S1602, the CPU 490 starts timing.

[0415] Step S1603 is a process for determining whether a certain period of time has elapsed. In step S1603, the certain period of time is, for example, 0.2 to 0.5 seconds after the start of timing. If the certain period of time has elapsed since the start of timing, the CPU 490 determines the result of the determination process in step S as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S. On the other hand, if the certain period of time has not elapsed since the start of timing, the CPU 490 determines the result of the determination process in step S as No. In this case, the determination process in step S is repeatedly executed until the certain period of time has elapsed.

[0416] Step S1604 is a process for displaying "STOP" on the display unit. CPU 490 controls display unit 453 to display "STOP" (see FIG. 41(b)).

[0417] Step S1605 is a process for determining whether or not detection by the sensor unit has ended. If the sensor unit 452 continues to output a detection signal, the CPU 490 determines the result of the determination process in step S as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1606. On the other hand, if the output of the detection signal from the sensor unit 452 has stopped, the CPU 490 determines the result of the determination process in step S as No. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1613.

[0418] Step S1606 is a process for determining whether a certain period of time has elapsed. In step S1606, the certain period of time is, for example, one second from the start of timekeeping. If the certain period of time has elapsed since the start of timekeeping, the CPU 490 determines the result of the determination process in step S1606 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1607. On the other hand, if the certain period of time has not elapsed since the start of timekeeping, the CPU 490 determines the result of the determination process in step S1606 as No. In this case, the determination process in step S1606 is repeatedly executed until the certain period of time has elapsed.

[0419] Step S1607 is a process for displaying "Down" on the display unit. CPU 490 controls display unit 458 to display "Down", "▼", etc. (see FIG. 41(c)).

[0420] Step S1608 is a process for determining whether or not detection by the sensor unit has ended. If the detection signal is still being output from sensor unit 452, CPU 490 determines the result of the determination process in step S1608 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1609. On the other hand, if the output of the detection signal from sensor unit 452 has stopped, CPU 490 determines the result of the determination process in step S1608 as No. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1613.

[0421] Step S1609 is a process for determining whether a certain time has elapsed. In step S1609, the certain time is, for example, three seconds from the start of timing. If the certain time has elapsed since timing started, CPU 490 determines the result of the determination process in step S1609 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S16. On the other hand, if the certain time has not elapsed since timing started, CPU 490 determines the result of the determination process in step S as No. In this case, the determination process in step S is repeatedly executed until the certain time has elapsed.

[0422] Step S1610 is a process for displaying "up" on the display unit. CPU 490 controls display unit 458 to display "down", "▲", etc. (see FIG. 41(d)).

[0423] Step S1611 is a process for determining whether or not detection by the sensor unit has ended. If the detection signal is still being output from sensor unit 452, CPU 490 determines the result of the determination process in step S1611 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1612. On the other hand, if the output of the detection signal from sensor unit 452 has stopped, CPU 490 determines the result of the determination process in step S1611 as No. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1613.

[0424] Step S1612 is a process for determining whether a certain period of time has elapsed. In step S1612, the certain period of time is, for example, five seconds from the start of timing. If the certain period of time has elapsed since timing began, CPU 490 determines the result of the determination process in step S1612 as Yes. In this case, the process returns to step S1604. On the other hand, if the certain period of time has not elapsed since timing began, CPU 490 determines the result of the determination process in step S1604 as No. In this case, the determination process in step S1604 is repeatedly executed until the certain period of time has elapsed.

[0425] If the result of the determination process in step S1604 is Yes, the display on display unit 458 is switched every two seconds, in other words, every 7, 9, 11, and 13 seconds after the start of timing.

[0426] In step S1613, the CPU 490 transmits an operation signal based on the displayed operation content to the control device 470 of the blind body 449 via the communication unit 493.

[0427] Next, the processing flow of the blind main body 449 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

[0428] Step S1701 is a process of determining whether or not an operation signal has been received. The control device 470 receives an operation signal transmitted from the operation device 450. Therefore, if an operation signal has been received from the operation device 450, the control device 470 determines the result of the determination process in step S1701 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1702. On the other hand, if an operation signal has not been received from the operation device 450, the result of the determination process in step S1701 is No. In this case, the control device 470 repeatedly executes the determination process in step S1701.

[0429] Step S1702 is a process for determining whether the operation content indicates "downward." If the operation content based on the operation signal indicates "downward," the control device 470 determines the result of the determination process in step S1702 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1703. On the other hand, if the operation content based on the operation signal indicates something other than "downward," the control device 470 determines the result of the determination process in step S1702 as No. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1710.

[0430] Step S1703 is a process for determining whether one of the two lift motors is rotating forward and the position of the rail corresponding to the lift motor to be stopped is not at the lowest position. For example, the control device 470 checks the driving status of the lift motors 377 and 382 and the position of the intermediate rail 356 or the bottom rail 358.

[0431] For example, when either the upper fabric lifting motor 377 or the lower fabric lifting motor 382 is rotating forward and the rail corresponding to the other stopped lifting motor is not at the lowest position, the control device 470 determines the result of the determination process in step S1703 as Yes. In this case, the control device 470 proceeds to the process in step S1704.

[0432] On the other hand, if both the upper fabric lift motor 377 and the lower fabric lift motor 382 are rotating forward, the control device 470 determines No as a result of the determination process in step S1703. Also, if either the upper fabric lift motor 377 or the lower fabric lift motor 382 is rotating forward but the rail corresponding to the other stopped lift motor is at the lowest position, or if, for example, either the upper fabric lift motor 377 or the lower fabric lift motor 382 is rotating backward, the control device 470 determines No as a result of the determination process in step S1703. In these cases, the control device 470 proceeds to the process in step S1705.

[0433] Step S1704 is a process for driving the stopped lift motor in the forward direction. The control device 470 drives the stopped lift motor in the forward direction. For example, if the lower fabric lift motor 382 is driving in the forward direction and the upper fabric lift motor 377 is stopped, the control device 470 drives the upper fabric lift motor 377 in the forward direction. This stretches not only the lower screen 357 but also the upper screen 355. Similarly, if the upper fabric lift motor 377 is driving in the forward direction and the lower fabric lift motor 382 is stopped, the control device 470 drives the lower fabric lift motor 382 in the forward direction. This stretches not only the upper screen 355 but also the lower screen 357. After the process of step S1704 has been executed, the process returns to step S1701.

[0434] If the result of the determination process in step S1703 is No, the process proceeds to step S1705.

[0435] Step S1705 is a process for determining whether or not the two lift motors are both stopped and the position of at least one of the intermediate rail 356 and the bottom rail 358 is not at its lowest position. For example, if the upper fabric lift motor 377 or the lower fabric lift motor 382 is both stopped and at least one of the rails corresponding to each lift motor is not at its lowest position, the control device 470 determines the result of the determination process in step S1705 as Yes. In this case, the control device 470 proceeds to the process of step S1706.

[0436] On the other hand, for example, if either the upper fabric lift motor 377 or the lower fabric lift motor 382 is stopped but at least one of the intermediate rail 356 and the bottom rail 358 is at the lowest position, or if either the upper fabric lift motor 377 or the lower fabric lift motor 382 is driving in reverse rotation, the control device 470 determines No as a result of the determination processing in step S1705. In this case, the control device 470 proceeds to the processing in step S1707.

[0437] Step S1706 is a process for driving one of the two elevator motors to rotate in the forward direction. The control device 470 drives the stopped elevator motor to rotate in the forward direction.

[0438] For example, when the two lift motors, the upper fabric lift motor 377 and the lower fabric lift motor 382, ​​are stopped, the control device 470 drives, for example, the lower fabric lift motor 382 to rotate forward. This causes the lower screen 357 to be unwound.

[0439] Furthermore, when the lower fabric lift motor 382, ​​of the upper fabric lift motor 377 or the lower fabric lift motor 382, ​​is rotating in the forward direction and the upper fabric lift motor 377 is stopped, the control device 470 drives the upper fabric lift motor 377 to rotate in the forward direction. This causes the upper screen 355 to be unrolled together with the lower screen 357. After the processing of step S1706 has been executed, the processing returns to step S1701.

[0440] If the result of the determination process in step S1705 is No, the process proceeds to step S1707.

[0441] Step S1707 is a process for determining whether at least one of the two lift motors is rotating in the reverse direction. If at least one of the upper fabric lift motor 377 or the lower fabric lift motor 382 is rotating in the reverse direction, the control device 470 determines the result of the determination process in step S1707 as Yes. In this case, the control device 470 proceeds to the process of step S. On the other hand, if both the upper fabric lift motor 377 and the lower fabric lift motor 382 are rotating in the forward direction or if the intermediate rail 356 and the bottom rail 358 are at their lowest positions, the control device 470 determines the result of the determination process in step S1707 as No. In this case, the control device 470 returns to the process of step S1701.

[0442] Step S1708 is a process for stopping the lift motor that is being driven in reverse rotation. The control device 470 stops the lift motor that is being driven in reverse rotation, either the upper fabric lift motor 377 or the lower fabric lift motor 382.

[0443] Step S1709 is a process for driving one of the two lift motors to rotate in the forward direction. The control device 470 drives the stopped lift motor to rotate in the forward direction. In this case, for example, the lower fabric lift motor 382 is driven to rotate in the forward direction. Therefore, the lower screen 357 is unrolled. After the process of step S1709 has been executed, the process returns to step S1701.

[0444] If the result of the determination process in step S1702 is No, that is, if the operation content is not "downward," the process proceeds to step S1710.

[0445] Step S1710 is a process for determining whether the operation content indicates "raise." If the operation content based on the operation signal indicates "raise," the control device 470 determines the result of the determination process in step S1710 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1711. On the other hand, if the operation content based on the operation signal does not indicate "raise," the control device 470 determines the result of the determination process in step S1710 as No. In this case, the operation content is "stop," and the process proceeds to step S1718. The control device 470 stops driving the lift motor. Note that after the process of step S1718 is executed, the control device 470 returns to the process of step S1701.

[0446] If the result of the determination process in step S1710 is Yes, the process proceeds to step S1711.

[0447] Step S1711 is a process for determining whether one of the two lift motors is rotating in reverse and the position of the rail corresponding to the lift motor to be stopped is not at the upper limit position. For example, the control device 470 checks the driving state of the lift motor and the position of the intermediate rail 356 or the bottom rail 358.

[0448] If either the upper fabric lifting motor 377 or the lower fabric lifting motor 382 is driven in reverse rotation and the position of the rail corresponding to the other stopped lifting motor is not at the upper limit position, the control device 470 determines the result of the determination processing in step S1711 as Yes. In this case, the control device 470 proceeds to the processing in step S1712.

[0449] On the other hand, if both the upper fabric lift motor 377 and the lower fabric lift motor 382 are driving in reverse rotation, the control device 470 determines No as a result of the determination process in step S1711. Also, if either the upper fabric lift motor 377 or the lower fabric lift motor 382 is driving in reverse rotation but the position of the rail corresponding to the other stopped lift motor is at the upper limit position, or if, for example, either one of the two lift motors, the upper fabric lift motor 377 or the lower fabric lift motor 382, ​​is driving in forward rotation, the control device 470 determines No as a result of the determination process in step S1711. In these cases, the control device 470 proceeds to the process in step S1713.

[0450] Step S1712 is a process for driving the stopped lift motor in reverse. The control device 470 drives the stopped lift motor in reverse. For example, if the upper fabric lift motor 377 is driven in reverse and the lower fabric lift motor 382 is stopped, the control device 470 drives the lower fabric lift motor 382 in reverse. This causes not only the upper screen 355 but also the lower screen 357 to fold. Similarly, if the lower fabric lift motor 382 is driven in reverse and the upper fabric lift motor 377 is stopped, the control device 470 drives the upper fabric lift motor 377 in reverse. This causes not only the lower screen 357 but also the upper screen 355 to fold. After the process of step S1712 has been executed, the process returns to step S1701.

[0451] If the result of the determination process in step S1711 is No, the process proceeds to step S1713.

[0452] Step S1713 is a process for determining whether or not it is satisfied that both of the two lift motors are stopped and that at least one of the two rails is not at its upper limit position. For example, if both the upper fabric lift motor 377 and the lower fabric lift motor 382 are stopped and at least one of the rails corresponding to each lift motor is not at its upper limit position, the control device 470 determines the result of the determination process in step S1713 as Yes. In this case, the control device 470 proceeds to the process in step S1714.

[0453] On the other hand, for example, when either the upper fabric lift motor 377 or the lower fabric lift motor 382 is stopped but the rail corresponding to each lift motor is at its upper limit position, or when either the upper fabric lift motor 377 or the lower fabric lift motor 382 is rotating forward, the control device 470 determines the result of the determination process in step S1713 as No. In this case, the control device 470 proceeds to the process in step S1715.

[0454] Step S1714 is a process for driving one of the two lift motors in reverse. The control device 470 drives the stopped lift motor in reverse. When the two lift motors, the upper fabric lift motor 377 or the lower fabric lift motor 382, ​​are stopped, the control device 470 drives, for example, the upper fabric lift motor 377 in reverse. This causes the upper screen 355 to be folded from the bottom end side.

[0455] Furthermore, when the upper fabric lift motor 377 of the upper fabric lift motor 377 or the lower fabric lift motor 382 is reversely driven and the lower fabric lift motor 382 is stopped, the control device 470 reversely drives the lower fabric lift motor 382. As a result, when the processing of step S1714 is executed in which not only the upper screen 355 but also the lower screen 357 is folded from the bottom end side, the processing returns to step S1701.

[0456] If the result of the determination process in step S1714 is No, the process proceeds to step S1715.

[0457] Step S1715 is a process for determining whether at least one of the two lift motors is rotating in the forward direction. If at least one of the upper fabric lift motor 377 or the lower fabric lift motor 382 is rotating in the forward direction, the control device 470 determines the result of the determination process in step S1715 as Yes. In this case, the control device 470 proceeds to the process of step S1716. On the other hand, if both the upper fabric lift motor 377 and the lower fabric lift motor 382 are rotating in the reverse direction or if the intermediate rail 356 and the bottom rail 358 are at their upper limit positions, the control device 470 determines the result of the determination process in step S1715 as No. In this case, the control device 470 returns to the process of step S1701.

[0458] Step S1716 is a process for stopping the elevator motor that is being driven in the forward direction. The control device 470 stops the elevator motor that is being driven in the forward direction, either the upper fabric elevator motor 377 or the lower fabric elevator motor 382.

[0459] Step S1717 is a process for driving one of the two lift motors in reverse. The control device 470 drives the stopped lift motor in reverse. In this case, for example, the upper fabric lift motor 377 is driven in reverse. Therefore, the upper screen 355 is folded from the bottom end side.

[0460] In this way, it is possible to operate the blind body 449 by simply waving a hand over it, without touching the operating device 450. This makes it possible to prevent the transmission of bacteria, viruses, and the like that may be attached to the operating device 450.

[0461] Furthermore, by providing the operating device 450 with a display unit 453 that displays the operation of the blind main body 449 being operated, the operation of the blind main body 449 can be easily visually confirmed. As a result, when the operator releases the operating device 450 in response to the operation intended by the operator being displayed on the display unit 453, the operation intended by the operator is executed by the blind main body 449. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the blind main body 449 from malfunctioning.

[0462] As described above, the operating device 450 has an operating unit with multiple operating buttons, and can give priority to transmitting operation signals based on the operation of the operating unit 451 to the blind main body 449. As a result, if it is necessary to operate the operating unit 451 while the blind main body 449 is operating using the sensor unit 452, the operation based on the operating unit 451 takes priority. Therefore, if the intermediate rail 356 or the bottom rail 358 has been raised or lowered more than necessary, the operating unit 451 can be operated to return it to an appropriate state or to stop it.

[0463] In the seventh and eighth embodiments, an electric pleated screen device is given as an example in which two tiers of shielding material (screens) arranged side by side in the vertical direction are individually raised and lowered, but the present invention can also be applied to an electric pleated screen device that raises and lowers one tier of shielding material (screen), or to an electric pleated screen device 503 that individually raises and lowers two shielding materials (screens) 501, 502 arranged side by side in the front-to-back direction, as shown in Figure 45.

[0464] In the above-described embodiment, an electric blind device in which a non-contact sensor unit is provided on an operating device such as a bottom rail or a remote control is used as an example. However, some electric blind devices are also available that are operated by operating an operating panel embedded in the wall of a building. Below, an electric blind device having an operating panel embedded in the wall of a building will be described. In describing this embodiment, the main configuration of the electric blind device is the same as the main configuration of the electric blind device 10 shown in FIG. 1. Therefore, below, only the configuration of the operating panel 530 provided on the electric blind device 520 will be described. Furthermore, in the following description, components of the electric blind device 520 that have the same functions as those of the electric blind device 10 shown in FIG. 1 are designated by the same reference numerals as those assigned to the components constituting the electric blind device shown in FIG. 1.

[0465] Ninth Embodiment As shown in FIG. 46, operation panel 530 has two display areas 531 and 532. Of the two display areas 531 and 532, display area 531 has, for example, 15 display units arranged in the vertical direction in FIG. 46. Display area 531 has an LED column 541 (see FIG. 47) therein. LED column 541 has 15 LEDs corresponding to the display units provided in display area 531. Note that the lighting of each LED in LED column 541 is individually controlled. Therefore, when any of the LEDs in LED column 541 lights up, the display unit corresponding to the lit LED emits light. Hereinafter, of the LEDs in LED column 541, the LED at the top position will be referred to as the LED at position P1, and the LED at the bottom position will be referred to as the LED at position P11.

[0466] Of the 15 display units in the display area 531, the illuminated display units not only display the current position (height) of the bottom rail 12, but also simulate the height of the bottom rail 12 that the operator intends. For example, when the display unit in the highest position of the 15 display units provided in the display area 531 is illuminated, it indicates that the bottom rail 12 is at the highest position, or that the electric blind device 520 is to be operated to move the bottom rail 12 to the highest position.

[0467] Furthermore, when the display unit located in the center in the vertical direction among the 15 display units is lit, it indicates that the bottom rail 12 is in the intermediate position or that the electric blind device 520 is to be operated to move the bottom rail 12 to the intermediate position. Furthermore, when the display unit located in the lowest position among the 15 display units is lit, it indicates that the bottom rail 12 is in the lowest position or that the electric blind device 520 is to be operated to move the bottom rail 12 to the lowest position.

[0468] Like the display area 531, the display area 532 has, for example, 15 display units arranged in the vertical direction. The display area 532 has an LED column 542 (see FIG. 47) therein. The LED column 542 has 15 LEDs corresponding to the respective display units provided in the display area 532. Note that the lighting of each LED in the LED column 542 is individually controlled. Therefore, when any of the LEDs in the LED column 542 lights up, the display unit corresponding to the lit LED emits light.

[0469] The illuminated display units simulate the rotation state of the slats intended by the operator, as well as the current rotation state of the multi-stage slats 11. When the topmost display unit of the 15 display units provided in the display area 532 is illuminated, it indicates that the multi-stage slats 11 are in the reverse fully closed state, or that the electric blind device 520 is to be operated to rotate the multi-stage slats 11 to the reverse fully closed state.

[0470] Furthermore, when the display unit located in the center in the vertical direction among the 15 display units is lit, it indicates that the multi-stage slats 11 are in a fully open state or that the electric blind device 520 is to be operated to rotate the multi-stage slats 11 to a fully open state. Furthermore, when the display unit located in the lowest position among the 15 display units is lit, it indicates that the multi-stage slats 11 are in a fully closed state or that the electric blind device 520 is to be operated to rotate the multi-stage slats 11 to a fully closed state.

[0471] The operation panel 530 has an up button 534 above the display area 531 and a down button 535 below the display area 531. The up button 534 is used to raise the bottom rail 12. The up button 534 has a sensor unit 543 (see FIG. 47) inside. Although not shown, the sensor unit 543 has a light-emitting unit and a light-receiving unit, and detects an object by reflecting infrared light emitted from the light-emitting unit on the surface of the object and receiving the reflected infrared light with the light-receiving unit. Therefore, the sensor unit 543 can detect an object in contact with the up button 534 or an object close to the up button 534.

[0472] The lowering button 535 is used to lower the bottom rail 12. The lowering button 535 has a sensor unit 544 (see FIG. 47) inside. The configuration of the sensor unit 544 is the same as the configuration of the sensor unit 543 disposed inside the raising button 534.

[0473] The operation panel 530 has tilt buttons 536, 537 arranged above and below the display area 532. Of the tilt buttons 536, 537, the tilt button 536 is used to rotate the multi-stage slats 11 to the reverse fully closed state. The tilt button 537 is used to rotate the multi-stage slats 11 to the fully closed state. The tilt buttons 536, 537 have sensor units 545, 546 (see FIG. 47) therein. These sensor units 545, 546 have the same configuration as the sensor unit 543 arranged inside the up button 534.

[0474] The operation panel 530 has a stop button 538 located on the right side of the display area 532 in FIG. 46. The stop button 538 is used to stop the raising and lowering of the bottom rail 12 and the rotation of the multiple slats 11. The stop button 538 has a sensor unit 547 (see FIG. 47) inside. The sensor unit 547 has the same configuration as the sensor unit 543 located inside the lift button 534.

[0475] 47 is a functional block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the electric blind device 1 in the ninth embodiment. Only the electrical configuration of the operation panel 530 will be described below.

[0476] 47, operation panel 530 has LED rows 541 and 542 and sensor units 543, 544, 545, 546, and 547 arranged inside display areas 531 and 532 described above, as well as a CPU 548, a ROM 549, a RAM 550, and a communication unit 551. CPU 548 executes an operation program 552 stored in ROM 549, thereby achieving the functions of a control unit 555, a timer unit 556, and a light emission control unit 557.

[0477] The control unit 555 controls each unit in the operation panel 530. The control unit 555 also transmits an operation signal based on the operation of the operation panel 530 to the control device 35 of the electric blind device 520 via the communication unit 551. Note that communication between the communication unit 551 provided in the operation panel 530 and the communication unit 54 of the control device 35 is either wireless or wired. The timer unit 556 measures the time during which the detection signal is input when it continuously receives a detection signal from any of the sensor units 543, 544, 545, and 546. The light emission control unit 557 controls the light emission of the LED array 541 provided in the display area 531 or the LED array 542 provided in the display area 532 based on the detection signal from any of the sensor units 543, 544, 545, and 546.

[0478] The ROM 549 stores an operation program 552. The RAM 550 stores information on the positions of the lit LEDs (hereinafter referred to as lighting data). When an object is detected by the sensor unit, the lit LEDs are switched, and the lighting data is updated and stored in the RAM 550 every time the lit LEDs are switched.

[0479] In this embodiment, a case where a CPU 548, a ROM 549, and a RAM 550 are provided on the operation panel 530 is described, but it is also possible to input the detection signals of each sensor unit to the control device 35, and have the control device 35 control the illumination of the display units of each display area 531, 532.

[0480] Next, the operation of operation panel 530 when operation panel 530 is operated will be described using the flowchart in Fig. 48. The flowchart shown in Fig. 48 is a flowchart when bottom rail 12 is raised and lowered.

[0481] Step S1801 is a process for determining whether or not there is detection by sensor unit 543. As shown in FIG. 49(a), when the operator brings the index finger close to up button 534, sensor unit 543 arranged inside up button 534 detects the index finger and outputs a detection signal to CPU 548. Upon receiving the detection signal from sensor unit 543, CPU 548 determines the result of the determination process of step S1801 as Yes. In this case, CPU 548 performs the process of step S1802. In response to the input of the detection signal from sensor unit 543, CPU 548 starts timing. On the other hand, if no detection signal is input from sensor unit 543, the result of the determination process of step S1801 is No. In this case, CPU 548 performs the process of step S1809, which will be described later.

[0482] Step S1802 is a process for determining whether the LED at position P1 is lit. The CPU 548 reads out the LED lighting data stored in the RAM 550. The CPU 548 then checks the position of the LED that is currently lit among the LEDs in the LED column 541. For example, if the currently lit LED is the LED at position P1, the CPU 548 determines Yes as the result of the determination process in step S1802, and performs the process in step S1804. In this case, the currently lit LED at position P1 remains lit.

[0483] On the other hand, if the currently lit LED is not the LED at position P1, CPU 548 determines the result of the determination processing in step S1802 as No. In this case, CPU 548 performs the processing of step S1803.

[0484] Step S1803 is processing for turning off the LED at position Pn and turning on the LED at position Pn-1. CPU 548 turns off the LED at position Pn and turns on the LED at position Pn-1 among the LEDs in LED column 541. This shifts the light-emitting display section in display area 531 upward by one level. CPU 548 then updates the lighting data and stores it in RAM 550.

[0485] Step S1804 is processing for determining whether detection by sensor unit 543 has continued for a certain period of time. For example, if a detection signal from sensor unit 543 is continuously input for more than certain period of time T1, CPU 548 determines the result of the determination in step S1804 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to processing in step S1805. On the other hand, if a detection signal from sensor unit 543 is input without exceeding certain period of time T1, CPU 548 determines the result of the determination processing in step S1804 as No. In this case, CPU 548 performs processing in step S1807.

[0486] Step S1805 is a process for determining whether the LED at position P1 is lit. CPU 548 reads the LED lighting data stored in RAM 550 and checks the position of the currently lit LED. For example, if the currently lit LED is the LED at position P1, CPU 548 determines the result of the determination process in step S1805 as Yes and performs the process in step S1807. In this case, the currently lit LED at position P1 remains lit.

[0487] On the other hand, if the currently lit LED is not the LED at position P1, CPU 548 determines the result of the determination processing in step S1805 as No. In this case, CPU 548 performs the processing of step S1806.

[0488] Step S1806 is processing to turn off the LED at position Pn-1 and turn on the LED at position Pn-2. Of the LEDs in LED column 541, CPU 548 turns off the LED at position Pn-1 and turns on the LED at position Pn-2. This shifts the light-emitting display section in display area 531 upward by one step. CPU 548 then updates the lighting data and stores it in RAM 550. After processing step S1806, CPU 548 performs processing of step S1807.

[0489] Step S1807 is a process for determining whether or not there is detection by sensor unit 543. For example, when the operator's finger is released from up button 534, sensor unit 543 no longer detects the finger and stops outputting the detection signal. If the output of the detection signal from sensor unit 543 has stopped, CPU 548 determines the result of the determination process in step S1807 as Yes. In this case, CPU 548 performs the process of step S1808. On the other hand, if the output of the detection signal from sensor unit 543 is still being executed, CPU 548 determines the result of the determination process in step S1807 as No. In this case, CPU 543 returns to step S1804 and repeatedly executes the processes from step S1804 to step S1807 until the output of the detection signal from sensor unit 543 has stopped.

[0490] Therefore, if a finger is kept on or in close proximity to the up button 534, the light-emitting display section among the display sections of the display area 531 rises by one step every time a certain time elapses. Then, if a finger is kept on or in close proximity to the up button 534 even after the display section at the top position has started to emit light, the display section at the top position continues to emit light.

[0491] Step S1808 is a process of transmitting an operation signal to the control device 35. The CPU 548 acquires position information of the currently lit LED from the lighting data stored in the RAM 550. Then, the CPU 548 transmits an operation signal accompanied by the LED position information to the control device 35. The CPU 51 of the control device 35 drives the motor 31 to rotate based on the operation signal transmitted from the operation panel 530. That is, when a finger is placed on or in proximity to the up button 534, the bottom rail 12 rises to a position corresponding to the illuminated display section among the display sections of the display area 531. As the bottom rail 12 rises, the multiple tiers of slats 11 rise sequentially from the bottom tier.

[0492] If the judgment processing of the above-mentioned step S1801 is No, that is, if the finger is placed on or close to an operation button other than the up button 534, or if the finger is not placed on or close to the operation panel 530, the CPU 548 performs the processing of step S1809.

[0493] Step S1809 is a process of determining whether or not there is detection by sensor unit 544. When the operator brings the index finger close to down button 535, sensor unit 543 arranged inside down button 535 detects the index finger and outputs a detection signal to CPU 548. Upon receiving the detection signal from sensor unit 543, CPU 548 determines the result of the determination process of step S1809 as Yes. In this case, CPU 548 performs the process of step S1810. At this time, CPU 548 starts timing upon receiving the detection signal from sensor unit 543.

[0494] On the other hand, if the operator has not brought his / her index finger close to down button 535, no detection signal is input from sensor unit 543, and CPU 548 determines the result of the determination process in step S1809 as No. In this case, CPU 548 returns to the process of step S1801.

[0495] Step S1810 is a process for determining whether the LED at position Pnmax is lit. CPU 548 reads the LED lighting data stored in RAM 550 and checks the position of the currently lit LED. For example, if the currently lit LED is the LED at position Pnmax, CPU 548 determines the result of the determination process in step S1810 as Yes and performs the process in step S1812. In this case, the currently lit LED at position Pnmax remains lit. In other words, the display unit at the bottom of display area 531 continues to emit light.

[0496] On the other hand, if the currently lit LED is not the LED at position Pnmax, the CPU 548 determines the result of the determination processing in step S1810 as No. In this case, the CPU 548 performs the processing of step S1811.

[0497] Step S1811 is processing to turn off the LED at position Pn and turn on the LED at position Pn+1. Of the LEDs in LED column 541, CPU 548 turns off the LED at position Pn and turns on the LED at position Pn+1. As a result, of the display sections in the display area, the display sections that emit light are shifted one level downward. Then, CPU 548 updates the lighting data and stores it in RAM 550.

[0498] Step S1812 is a process of determining whether or not detection by sensor unit 544 has continued for a certain period of time. For example, if a detection signal from sensor unit 544 is continuously input for more than certain period of time T1, CPU 548 determines the result of step S1812 as Yes. In this case, CPU 548 performs the process of step S1813.

[0499] On the other hand, if the detection signal from sensor unit 544 is input within the given time T1, CPU 548 determines the result of the determination process in step S1813 as No. In this case, CPU 548 performs the process of step S1808.

[0500] Step S1813 is a process for determining whether the LED at position Pnmax is lit. The CPU 548 reads the LED lighting data stored in the RAM 550 and checks the position of the currently lit LED. For example, if the currently lit LED is the LED at position Pnmax, the CPU 548 determines the result of the determination process in step S1813 as Yes and performs the process in step S1815. In this case, the currently lit LED at position Pnmax remains lit.

[0501] On the other hand, if the currently lit LED is not the LED at position Pnmax, the CPU 548 determines the result of the determination processing in step S1813 as No. In this case, the CPU 548 performs the processing of step S1814.

[0502] Step S1814 is processing to turn off the LED at position Pn+1 and turn on the LED at position Pn+2. Of the LEDs in LED column 541, CPU 548 turns off the LED at position Pn+1 and turns on the LED at position Pn+2. This shifts the light-emitting display section in display area 531 downward by one level. Then, CPU 548 updates the lighting data and stores it in RAM 550.

[0503] Step S1815 is a process for determining whether or not there is detection by the sensor unit 544. For example, when the operator's finger is released from the down button 535, the sensor unit 544 no longer detects the finger and stops outputting the detection signal. If the output of the detection signal from the sensor unit 544 has stopped, the CPU 548 determines the result of the determination process in step S1815 as Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1808. In this case, the CPU 548 reads out the lighting data stored in the RAM 550 and transmits an operation signal accompanied by position information of the lit LED to the control device 35. The CPU 51 of the control device 35 drives the motor 31 to rotate based on the operation signal transmitted from the operation panel 530. In this case, the bottom rail 12 descends to a position corresponding to the lit LED. As the bottom rail 12 descends, the multiple slats 11 descend sequentially from the lowermost tier.

[0504] On the other hand, if the output of the detection signal from sensor unit 544 is still being executed, CPU 548 determines the result of the determination process of step S1815 as No. In this case, CPU 548 returns to the process of step S1812 and repeatedly executes the processes of steps S1812 to S1815 until the output of the detection signal from sensor unit 544 is stopped. Therefore, if a finger continues to be placed on or in proximity to down button 535, the light-emitting display section of display area 531 will descend by one step every time a certain period of time elapses. Then, if a finger continues to be placed on or in proximity to down button 535 even after the display section at the lowest position has emitted light, the display section at the lowest position will continue to emit light.

[0505] In this way, when a finger is placed on or near the up button 534 or the down button 535, the display in the display area 531 of the operation panel 530 changes every time a certain period of time passes, and when the finger is released from the operation panel 530, the bottom rail 12 rises or falls in accordance with the display in the display area 531 at the time the finger is released.

[0506] Although not explained further, when a finger is placed on or near either of the tilt buttons 536, 537, the display in the display area 532 is switched at regular intervals in the same manner as when the up button 534 or the down button 535 is used, and when the finger is released, the multiple slats 11 rotate to match the display in the display area 532 at the time the finger was released.

[0507] According to this, there is no need to touch the buttons on operation panel 530 with a finger when operating, which prevents bacteria or dirt adhering to operation panel 530 from getting on a finger.

[0508] Note that if a sensor unit has a light-projecting unit and a light-receiving unit, it will detect objects that are not close to operation panel 530, i.e., objects other than the finger operating operation panel 530. Therefore, it is also possible to set a threshold value in advance for determining whether an object is within a distance from operation panel 530 that makes operation of operation panel 530 valid (effective distance), and to determine from the detected object whether the object is close to operation panel 530. Note that the threshold value may be the effective distance, or the amount of light received by the light-receiving unit when an object within the effective distance is detected.

[0509] Furthermore, when an operator brings their index finger close to the up button 534 of the operation panel 530, their palm or other fingers may approach, for example, another button on the operation panel 530, potentially resulting in an operation different from the operator's intention. Therefore, to ensure that the operation intended by the operator is performed, for example, a sensor unit provided on the operation panel 530 that detects the closest object can be prioritized. FIG. 49(b) is a diagram showing, for example, an index finger approaching the up button 534 and a thumb approaching the down button 535. As shown in FIG. 49(b), assuming that the distance from the operation panel 530 to the index finger is D1 and the distance from the operation panel 530 to the thumb is D2, if distance D1 > distance D2, then priority is given to the detection signal of the sensor unit 543 disposed inside the up button 534. Conversely, if distance D1 < distance D2, priority is given to the detection signal of the sensor unit 544 disposed inside the down button 535. With this, even if an object is detected by multiple sensors, the detection signal of the object (such as a finger) closest to the operation panel 530 is given priority, and the electric blind device performs an operation based on the prioritized detection signal. Therefore, it is possible to reliably operate the electric blind device.

[0510] When an object is detected by multiple sensor units, it is common for a detection signal to be output from the sensor unit closest to the operation panel 530. However, when detection signals are output from multiple sensor units, it is also possible to invalidate all of these detection signals and prevent the electric blind device from operating. [Explanation of symbols]

[0511] 10, 70, 110, 150, 180... Electric blind device 11...Slat 12, 71, 111...Bottom rail 13...Head box 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 72, 73, 112, 115, 151, 272, 273, 303...Sensor section 31...Motor 35, 76, 120, 155, 274, 420...Control device 39...Lifting drum 40...Tilt drum 75...Display device 88,89,302...Display section 181,351,449...Blind body 182,352,450…Operating device 191...Operation unit 192...Sensor section 193...Display section 250,300...Electric roller blind device 251…Frame body 252...Screen 255...Top frame 256,257...A pair of vertical frames 261...winding drum 262...weight bar 350,445...electric pleated screen device 355...Upper screen 357…Lower screen

Claims

1. A light blocking portion that blocks external light; A drive unit that operates the light blocking unit; A detection unit that detects an approaching object in a non-contact manner; a control unit that controls the drive unit in response to detection of the object by the detection unit; having The light blocking portion is A plurality of light blocking plates extending in a horizontal direction and arranged at predetermined intervals in a vertical direction; a rail member that is raised and lowered by the driving unit to move the plurality of light blocking plates up and down; having the detection unit is provided on the rail member of the light blocking unit, a measurement unit that measures the time when the object is detected by the detection unit; a display unit that displays one of a plurality of preset stop positions of the rail member in accordance with a detection time of the object by the detection unit; having The control unit drives the drive unit to move the rail member to the stop position displayed on the display unit.

2. The electric blind device according to claim 1, The display unit has a plurality of LEDs arranged in a row, The detection units are disposed at two locations on the rail member, When one of the detection units arranged at two locations on the rail member detects the object, the multiple LEDs are turned on by sequentially switching them in one direction, and when the other of the detection units arranged at two locations on the rail member detects the object, the multiple LEDs are turned on by sequentially switching them in the direction opposite to the one direction.

3. The electric blind device according to claim 1 or 2, A human body detection unit that detects a nearby human body, The control unit enables driving of the drive unit when the human body detection unit detects an approaching human body.

4. A light blocking portion that blocks external light; A drive unit that operates the light blocking unit; A detection unit that detects an approaching object in a non-contact manner; a control unit that controls the drive unit in response to detection of the object by the detection unit; having The light blocking portion is a screen having an upper end attached to a winding member; A weight member disposed at a lower end of the screen and applying tension to the screen; Including, The drive unit rotates the winding member to unwind the screen wound around the winding member or wind the screen around the winding member, The winding member is provided with a frame body having an upper frame and a pair of vertical frames extending downward from both sides of the upper frame, the frame body supporting the winding member across the pair of vertical frames at a position adjacent to the upper frame, a measurement unit that measures the time when the object is detected by the detection unit; a display unit provided on at least one of the pair of vertical frames and configured to display a stop position of the weight member according to a detection time of the object by the detection unit; having The control unit drives the drive unit to wind up or unwind the screen until the weight member reaches the same height as the stop position displayed on the display unit.

Images