Door opening and closing device and sliding door device equipped with same

Abstract

To provide: a door opening / closing mechanism, which unnecessitates the wiring to connect an operation part with a control part, and can plan to commonize components; and a sliding door unit equipped with the mechanism.SOLUTION: A door opening / closing mechanism 2 comprises: an upper rail 40 that guides the top side edge of a sliding door panel 30 in the door width direction; a driving mechanism 50 that slides the aforesaid sliding door panel in the door width direction; a reception part 34 which is connected to a control part 55 that controls the driving mechanism; an operation part 16 which receives the operation to slide the aforesaid sliding door panel; and a transmission part 19 which is arranged to lie on one end of the door thickness direction and makes radio transmission of an operation signal of the aforesaid operation part to the aforesaid reception part. The aforesaid upper rail is installed with a holding part 45, which is enabled to have the aforesaid reception part selectively fitted at either one of both ends of the door thickness direction, and holds the reception part.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a door opening and closing device and a sliding door device equipped with the same. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, there has been known a sliding door device that constitutes a so-called automatic door equipped with a drive mechanism that slides a sliding door panel in the door width direction. Some of these automatic doors have a control unit that controls the drive mechanism and an operating unit that accepts operations to slide the sliding door panel connected by wire, but the need for wiring has been a problem. For example, Patent Document 1 below discloses an opening / closing control device in which a receiver including a photodetector that receives an optical signal from an optical transmitter embedded in a handle portion where an activation switch is provided on the door is provided on the outer surface of a door engine case that holds the door movably. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Utility Model Application Publication No. 5-58788 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, in the opening and closing control device described in Patent Document 1, if the optical transmitter on the door side is installed on the opposite side in the thickness direction, the receiver also needs to be installed on the opposite side, in which case it may be necessary to use a separate part.

[0005] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned situation, and aims to provide a door opening and closing device that does not require wiring to connect an operating unit and a control unit and that allows for the standardization of parts, and a sliding door device equipped with the same. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to achieve the above object, the door opening and closing device of the present invention comprises an upper rail that guides the upper end side of a sliding door panel in the door width direction, a drive mechanism that slides the sliding door panel in the door width direction, a receiving unit connected to a control unit that controls the drive mechanism, an operating unit that accepts operations to slide the sliding door panel, and a transmitting unit that is located on one side in the door thickness direction and wirelessly transmits an operating signal from the operating unit to the receiving unit, and is characterized in that the upper rail is provided with a holding unit that allows the receiving unit to be selectively attached to either side of the upper rail in the door thickness direction and that holds the receiving unit.

[0007] In order to achieve the above object, the sliding door device according to the present invention is characterized by comprising the door opening and closing device according to the present invention and a sliding door panel that is slid by the door opening and closing device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] The door opening and closing device and the sliding door device equipped with the same according to the present invention are configured as described above, which eliminates the need for wiring connecting the operating unit and the control unit and enables the use of standardized parts. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1A and 1B are partially cutaway schematic perspective views showing an example of a door opening and closing device according to one embodiment of the present invention and an example of a sliding door device including the same. [Figure 2] (a) and (b) are partially cutaway schematic cross-sectional views with part of the sliding door device omitted, (c) is a partially cutaway schematic side view showing an example of a sliding door panel provided in the sliding door device, and (d) is a schematic bottom view showing an example of a receiving section (receiving unit) provided in the sliding door device. [Figure 3] (a) to (f) show schematic diagrams of an example of a sensor unit provided in the sliding door device, where (a) is a front view, (b) is a rear view, (c) is a left side view, (d) is a right side view, (e) is a plan view, and (f) is a bottom view. [Figure 4]FIG. 2(a) is a schematic perspective view, partly cut away, of the sliding door panel, and FIG. 2(b) is a schematic exploded perspective view, partly cut away, of the sliding door panel. [Figure 5] FIG. 2(a) is a schematic perspective view, partly cut away, of the sliding door panel, and FIG. 2(b) is a schematic exploded perspective view, partly cut away, of the sliding door panel. [Figure 6] 2(a) and 2(b) are partially cutaway schematic exploded perspective views in which a part of the sliding door device is omitted. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a schematic exploded perspective view of the sliding door device with a portion thereof omitted. [Figure 8] 1(a) to 1(c) are partially cutaway schematic exploded cross-sectional side views in which a part of the sliding door device is omitted. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram of the sliding door device. [Figure 10] 4 is a schematic flowchart showing an example of a basic operation executed in the sliding door device. [Figure 11] 10(a) and 10(b) are schematic flow charts showing an example of a basic operation executed in the sliding door device. [Figure 12] 10(a) to 10(c) are partially cutaway, schematic exploded cross-sectional side views schematically illustrating a modified example of the door opening and closing device and an example of a sliding door device equipped with the same. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In some drawings, some of the detailed reference numerals used in other drawings are omitted. In the following embodiment, directions such as the up and down directions will be described based on the state in which a sliding door device equipped with a door opening and closing device according to this embodiment is installed.

[0011] 1 to 11 are diagrams that schematically show an example of a door opening and closing device according to this embodiment, an example of a sliding door device equipped with the same, and an example of a basic operation that is executed in the sliding door device. As shown in Figures 7 and 8, the door opening and closing device 2 according to this embodiment includes an upper rail 40 that guides the upper end of the sliding door panel 30 in the door width direction, and a drive mechanism 50 that slides the sliding door panel 30 in the door width direction. With this configuration, by driving the drive mechanism 50, the sliding door panel 30 can be moved in the opening and closing (opening and closing) directions. In other words, the sliding door panel 30 can function as an automatic door. The sliding door device 1 according to this embodiment includes this door opening and closing device 2 and the sliding door panel 30 that is slid by this door opening and closing device 2.

[0012] This sliding door device 1 can be installed in various locations, including ordinary residences such as detached houses and apartment buildings, public facilities such as accommodation facilities, medical facilities, and welfare facilities, commercial facilities such as offices, and various stores. In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 1(a), 1(b), and 2(a), 1(b), an example is shown in which a single sliding door panel 30 is installed in a single-sliding configuration. The illustrated example illustrates an installation structure in which a sleeve wall 4 is provided along which the sliding door panel 30 in the open position (fully open position) is aligned. In other words, an example is shown in which the sliding door panel 30 is installed in a sleeve wall-fitted configuration. In the following description, the side opposite to the side where the sleeve wall 4 is provided, which is one side of the door thickness direction, is referred to as the indoor side, and the side where the sleeve wall 4 is provided, which is the other side of the door thickness direction, is referred to as the outdoor side, but the opposite is also possible.

[0013] The upper rail 40 of the sliding door device 1 is fixed to an upper frame 5 as a fixing object. The door frame including the upper frame 5 may be provided in the sliding door device 1. As shown in Figures 1, 2(a), and 2(b), the door frame is installed in an opening in a wall 3 of a building. The door frame includes an upper frame 5 (upper rail 40) that defines the upper side of the doorway 9, which is opened and closed by the sliding door panel 30; a leading edge vertical frame 6 disposed on the leading edge of the sliding door panel 30; a trailing edge vertical frame 7 disposed on the trailing edge of the sliding door panel 30; and a middle mullion (intermediate vertical frame) 8. The middle mullion 8 is disposed along the end of the sleeve wall 4 on the doorway 9 side, and defines both sides of the doorway 9 in the width direction together with the leading edge vertical frame 6. The upper frame 5 is not limited to a configuration that is provided along the lower edge of the hanging wall as shown in the figure, but may be attached to or embedded in the ceiling. The lower side of the doorway 9 may be defined by the floor or an appropriate lower frame.

[0014] The upper frame 5 is elongated in the door width direction. The length of the upper frame 5 is approximately twice the door width of the sliding door panel 30. As shown in Figure 8, the upper frame 5 is provided with a receiving groove 5b that receives the upper portion of a fixing portion 47 provided on the upper rail 40, which will be described later. The upper frame 5 may be fixed to an appropriate upper frame base, such as a lintel, with fasteners such as screws or nails. The leading-door vertical frame 6, trailing-door vertical frame 7, and center mullion 8 are elongated in the door height direction (vertical direction). The length of these leading-door vertical frame 6, trailing-door vertical frame 7, and center mullion 8 is approximately the same as the door height of the sliding door panel 30 plus the vertical dimensions of the upper rail 40 including the drive mechanism 50 and the upper frame 5. The leading-door vertical frame 6 and trailing-door vertical frame 7 may be fixed to an appropriate vertical frame base such as a pillar using fasteners. The leading-door vertical frame 6, trailing-door vertical frame 7, and upper frame 5 may be fixed to the vertical frame base and upper frame base in a three-sided frame configuration. The illustrated example shows an example in which the facing surfaces of the upper ends of the leading-door vertical frame 6 and trailing-door vertical frame 7 are butted against the longitudinal end faces of the upper frame 5, and the leading-door vertical frame 6, trailing-door vertical frame 7, and upper frame 5 are assembled in a vertically aligned configuration.

[0015] In the illustrated example, the facing surfaces of the leading edge vertical frame 6 and trailing edge vertical frame 7 are provided with door grooves to accommodate the ends (leading edge end and trailing edge end) of the sliding door panel 30 in the door width direction. The upper end of the middle mullion 8 may be fixed to the upper frame 5, and the lower end may be fixed to the floor. In the illustrated example, the end of this middle mullion 8 on the sliding door panel 30 side is provided with a gap shielding member such as mohair that rubs against one surface (second surface) 32 in the thickness direction of the sliding door panel 30. The door frame is not limited to the configuration described above, and various other configurations may be used depending on the installation mode of the sliding door panel 30.

[0016] The sliding door panel 30 is shaped like a generally rectangular flat plate that is elongated in one direction (the vertical direction). The door height (length) of the sliding door panel 30 may be a standard door height, for example, approximately 1800 mm to 2100 mm, as long as it corresponds to the opening height of the doorway 9 that is opened and closed by the sliding door panel 30. The sliding door panel 30 may also be configured as a high door with a door height that is approximately the same as the ceiling height, for example, approximately 2300 mm to 3000 mm. The door thickness of the sliding door panel 30 may be approximately 20 mm to 40 mm. The door width of the sliding door panel 30 may be, for example, approximately 500 mm to 1800 mm. When installed indoors, the sliding door panel 30 may be a relatively lightweight panel, such as a so-called flush panel, which is configured by attaching a surface material to a panel core material including a frame-shaped core material made of wood or metal, which is commonly used for interior sliding doors. The sliding door panel 30 is not limited to such a flush panel, and may have an appropriate configuration depending on the installation location, etc.

[0017] As shown in Figures 7 and 8, guided members 43, 43 that are slidably suspended from the upper rail 40 are connected to the upper end portions on both sides of the sliding door panel 30 in the door width direction. That is, in this embodiment, the sliding door device 1 is configured to open and close the sliding door panel 30 in a top-suspended manner. Mounting portions to which the mounted portions of the guided members 43, 43 are attached are provided at the upper end portions on both sides of the sliding door panel 30 in the door width direction. The mounting portions of the sliding door panel 30 may be recessed cup portions that are provided at each of the upper end portions on both sides of the sliding door panel 30 in the door width direction so as to open outward and upward in the door width direction, and into which the mounted portions are fitted. The guided members 43, 43 are inserted into guide grooves 41 provided in the upper rail 40 and are equipped with rolling elements 44, 44 that run on guide pieces of the upper rail 40. In the illustrated example, rolling elements 44 that rotate around axes along the door thickness direction are provided on both sides in the door thickness direction of the guide main body of the guided member 43. These rolling elements 44, 44 on both sides in the door thickness direction may be provided at multiple locations on the guide main body of the guided member 43 at intervals in the door width direction.

[0018] Of these guided members 43, 43 on both sides in the door width direction, the guided member 43 on one side (for example, the door leading side) is connected to the drive mechanism 50. In other words, the guided member 43 on one side may be slid in the door width direction by the drive mechanism 50, and the guided member 43 on the other side, which is not connected to the drive mechanism 50, may be slid in the door width direction, so to speak, following it. The guided members 43, 43 are not limited to the configuration described above, and may be configured appropriately depending on the upper rail 40. The lower end of the sliding door panel 30 may be provided with a guide groove or the like into which a lower end guide member such as a guide pin provided on the floor side is inserted.

[0019] The upper rail 40 is elongated in the door width direction of the sliding door panel 30, and is approximately twice the door width of the sliding door panel 30. A drive mechanism 50 may be fixed to a first half of the upper rail 40 on one side (the door leading edge side in the illustrated example) of the longitudinal direction (rail longitudinal direction). The length of the upper rail 40 is less than twice the door width. The length of the upper rail 40 may be appropriately determined depending on the overlap dimension between the trailing edge end of the sliding door panel 30 and the middle mullion 8 (side wall 4) in the closed position, the remaining dimension of the sliding door panel 30 in the fully open position, etc. Figure 2(b) shows an example in which no remaining dimension is formed when the sliding door panel 30 is in the fully open position. In other words, when in the fully open position, the sliding door panel 30 is configured so that its door leading edge end face and the side (prospective face) of the middle mullion 8 (side wall 4) facing the entrance 9 are approximately flush with each other.

[0020] The upper rail 40 is provided with a guide groove 41 that opens downward and receives the guide body of the guided member 43. The guide groove 41 extends the entire length of the upper rail 40. The guide body of the guided member 43 is inserted into and guided by the guide groove 41. The upper rail 40 includes a groove bottom plate-like portion that defines the groove bottom of the guide groove 41, side plate-like portions on both sides that define both sides of the guide groove 41 in the groove width direction, and guide pieces that extend from the lower ends of the side plate-like portions in directions facing each other. The upper rail 40 is provided with protruding pieces 42, 42 on both sides that protrude upward from both side edges in the groove width direction (door thickness direction) on the upper surface of the groove bottom plate-like portion. The leading ends of the guide pieces on both sides have upwardly projecting ridges that extend the entire length of the upper rail 40. The ridges of these guide pieces engage with annular grooves provided on the outer circumferential surfaces of the rolling elements 44, 44 of the guided member 43, and the rolling elements 44, 44 run along the ridges of these guide pieces.

[0021] The upper rail 40 is not limited to a configuration having guide pieces on which the rolling elements 44, 44 provided at intervals on both sides in the door thickness direction run. The upper rail 40 may be configured, for example, to have one guide piece on which the rolling elements 44 provided on only one side of the guided member 43 in the door thickness direction are held so as to be hooked, or may have various other configurations. The upper rail 40 is provided with fixing portions 47 that fix the upper rail 40 to the upper frame 5. The fixing portions 47 are provided so as to protrude upward from the groove bottom plate portion of the upper rail 40. In the illustrated example, the upper rail 40 is provided with a plurality of fixing portions 47 spaced apart in the longitudinal direction. These fixing portions 47 are provided in empty spaces where components of the drive mechanism 50 provided on the upper rail 40 are not provided. As will be described later, these fixing portions 47 may be configured to be fixed to the upper frame 5 with fasteners such as screws, or may be configured to be hooked or temporarily held by hook portions provided on the upper frame 5.

[0022] The drive mechanism 50 is fixed to the upper rail 40. With this configuration, with the drive mechanism 50 integrated into the upper rail 40, the upper rail 40 can be fixed to a fixed object such as the upper frame 5 of the door frame to which the sliding door panel 30 is attached. 6 to 8, the drive mechanism 50 includes driven rotary wheels 53, 53 that are spaced apart in the door width direction. The drive mechanism 50 includes a string-like power transmission body 52 that is wound around each of the driven rotary wheels 53, 53 and connected to the guided member 43, and a drive unit 51 that transmits drive to the string-like power transmission body 52. ​​With this configuration, when the drive unit 51 is driven, the guided member 43 connected to the string-like power transmission body 52 moves in the door width direction, and the sliding door panel 30 can be moved in the opening / closing direction.

[0023] The drive unit 51 is disposed between the driven rotary wheels 53, 53 on both sides. The drive unit 51 may be a motor that rotates the drive rotary wheel around which the string-like power transmission body 52 is wound. The drive rotary wheel and the driven rotary wheels 53, 53 on both sides may be pulleys having annular grooves on their outer peripheries that engage with the string-like power transmission body 52, which is a rope-like member. The drive rotary wheel, the driven rotary wheels 53, 53 on both sides, and the drive unit 51 may be fixed to the upper rail 40 via appropriate fixing members. The motor constituting the drive unit 51 may be a servo motor or the like that can rotate forward and backward and whose rotation speed can be controlled. The string-like power transmission body 52 may have a ring-shaped portion to which the connecting part of the guided member 43 is fixed, or may have both longitudinal end portions connected to both sides of the connecting part in the door width direction to form a substantially ring-shaped body. This string-like power transmission body 52 may be made of any material as long as it is difficult to stretch, and may be made of, for example, a metal wire, a twisted cord made by twisting together appropriate fibers, or a braided cord made by combining fibers.

[0024] The driving rotary wheel and the driven rotary wheels 53, 53 on both sides of the drive mechanism 50 are not limited to pulleys (shrouds) but may be gears (sprockets) or the like. The string-like power transmission member 52 is also not limited to a rope-like member configured to fit the driving rotary wheel and the driven rotary wheels 53, 53 on both sides but may be a belt, ball chain, chain, or the like. In the above example, the driving rotary wheel and the driving unit 51 are provided between the driven rotary wheels 53, 53 on both sides, but this is not a limitation. One of the driven rotary wheels 53, 53 on both sides may be a driving rotary wheel around which the string-like power transmission member 52 is wound, and the other may be a driven rotary wheel. In this case, an appropriate driving unit 51 may be provided to transmit rotation to the driving rotary wheel. The drive mechanism 50 is not limited to a configuration including the string-like power transmission member 52 displaced by the driving rotary wheel. For example, the drive mechanism 50 may have a configuration in which a connecting part that is displaced in the door width direction by a screw rotated by the drive part 51 is connected to the guided member 43, or various other configurations may be used.

[0025] 9, the sliding door device 1 is equipped with a drive-side control unit 55 as a control unit that controls the drive mechanism 50. The drive-side control unit 55, which will be described in detail later, selectively executes a first mode and a second mode. The drive-side control unit 55 is connected to the drive unit 51 via appropriate signal lines and controls the rotation of the motor that constitutes the drive unit 51. The drive-side control unit 55 controls the drive unit 51 to rotate forward or backward, thereby moving the sliding door panel 30 to the fully open or closed position. The drive-side control unit 55 may be a microcomputer (MCU) that includes a control circuit such as a CPU and various memories (storage units) such as ROM and RAM that store programs including examples of basic operations described below. As shown in FIG. 7, the drive-side control unit 55 is provided in a control block 54 that is provided on the upper rail 40 so as to be located on one side of the drive unit 51 in the door width direction. The control block 54 is provided with a power supply unit and the like that supplies drive power to the drive unit 51. In the illustrated example, the control block 54 is shaped like a substantially rectangular pillar that is elongated in the door width direction.

[0026] As shown in FIG. 9 , the sliding door device 1 is equipped with a position detection unit 56 that detects the position of the sliding door panel 30. This position detection unit 56 may be configured to be able to detect at least the closed position and the fully open position of the sliding door panel 30, or may be configured to be able to detect the absolute position of the sliding door panel 30. For example, the position detection unit 56 may be configured to have a detection rotating wheel that is rotated by the string-like transmission body 52 to rotate a variable resistor. With this configuration, the absolute position of the sliding door panel 30 can be detected by the resistance value (voltage) of the variable resistor. This position detection unit 56 is connected to the drive-side control unit 55 via a signal line or the like. The drive unit 51 is controlled according to the position information and movement direction (closed side or open side) information of the sliding door panel 30 from the position detection unit 56, and the sliding door panel 30 is moved in the opening / closing direction.

[0027] The sliding door device 1 includes a receiver 35 connected to the drive-side control unit 55 and detectors 16 and 26, which detect a detection target and constitute an operation unit that receives operations to slide the sliding door panel 30. The sliding door device 1 also includes a transmitter 19 that wirelessly transmits detection signals (operation signals) from the detectors 16 and 26 to the receiver 35. This configuration allows the detection signals from the detectors 16 and 26 to be wirelessly transmitted to the receiver 35, which is connected to the drive-side control unit 55, eliminating the need for wiring or other wiring connecting the detectors 16 and 26 to the drive mechanism 50. By bringing a detection target, such as a hand, close to the detectors 16 and 26, which constitute the operation unit, the drive mechanism 50 is controlled, causing the sliding door panel 30 to move in the opening and closing directions. In other words, the sliding door panel 30 can be moved in the opening and closing directions in a non-contact manner without operating an opening and closing button, improving convenience and hygiene. The transmitter 19 is located on one side in the door thickness direction. An example of a specific configuration of the detectors 16 and 26 and the transmitter 19 will be described later.

[0028] The receiving unit 35 is connected to the drive-side control unit 55 via a signal line or the like. The receiving unit 35 is provided in a receiving unit 34 attached to the upper rail 40. This configuration facilitates wiring between the drive-side control unit 55, power supply unit, etc., provided on the upper rail 40 and various devices of the receiving unit 34, compared to a configuration in which the receiving unit 34 is provided at an appropriate location on the wall body 3. As shown in FIGS. 6( a) and 6(b), the upper rail 40 is provided with a holder 45 for holding the receiving unit 34, allowing the receiving unit 34 to be selectively attached to either side of the upper rail 40 in the door thickness direction. This configuration accommodates the transmitter 19 (described below) being provided on either side in the door thickness direction. In other words, the receiving unit 34 can be attached to the side of the upper rail 40 where the transmitter 19 is provided in the door thickness direction. This eliminates the need to prepare an upper rail 40 with a receiving unit 34 on one side in the door thickness direction and an upper rail 40 with a receiving unit 34 on the other side in the door thickness direction as separate parts depending on the installation location, and allows the upper rail 40 and the receiving unit 34 to be common parts.

[0029] One of the receiving unit 34 and the holding portion 45 is provided with a locking recess 46 that receives the locking protrusion 38 provided on the other. With this configuration, the receiving unit 34 can be attached to the holding portion 45 by inserting and locking the locking protrusion 38 of one into the locking recess 46 of the other. This improves assembly ease compared to a configuration in which the receiving unit 34 must be attached to the holding portion 45 with screws or the like, for example. The locking protrusion 38 and the locking recess 46 are configured to lock with each other so as to prevent downward and horizontal movement of the receiving unit 34 attached from above to the holding portion 45. With this configuration, the receiving unit 34 can be easily attached by hooking it from above onto the holding portion 45 of the upper rail 40. Furthermore, by locking the locking protrusion 38 with the locking recess 46, downward and horizontal movement of the receiving unit 34 relative to the holding portion 45 is prevented, so that the upper rail 40 can be fixed to the upper frame 5 as a fixing object with the receiving unit 34 attached.

[0030] The locking protrusion 38 is provided on the receiving unit 34, and the locking recess 46 is provided on both sides in the door thickness direction of the holding portion 45. For example, if the locking protrusion 38 is provided on both sides in the door thickness direction of the holding portion 45, there is a concern that the locking protrusion 38 will get in the way on the side where the receiving unit 34 is not attached, but with the above configuration, there is no such concern. 8(c), the receiving unit 34 is attached to the holding portion 45, and with the upper rail 40 fixed to the upper frame 5 as a fixing target, the upper surface 34a of the receiving unit 34 abuts against or faces closely to the lower surface 5a of the upper frame 5. With this configuration, if the upper rail 40 is fixed to the upper frame 5 with the receiving unit 34 attached to the holding portion 45 by engaging the locking protrusions 38 and the locking recesses 46 with each other as described above, the upper surface 34a of the receiving unit 34 abuts against or faces closely to the lower surface 5a of the upper frame 5. As a result, the mutual engagement between the locking protrusions 38 and the locking recesses 46 of the upper frame 5 restricts movement of the receiving unit 34, and makes it possible to inhibit unintentional detachment of the receiving unit 34. When the upper surface 34a of the receiving unit 34 is brought close to the lower surface 5a of the upper frame 5, the distance between the lower surface 5a and the upper surface 34a may be set to an appropriate dimension so that the engagement between the locking recess 46 and the locking protrusion 38 is not released.

[0031] Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 , the retaining portion 45 is provided at one longitudinal end of the upper rail 40. The retaining portion 45 is provided so as to protrude upward from the groove bottom plate portion of the upper rail 40. The retaining portion 45 may be provided integrally with the upper rail 40 or separately and fixed to the upper rail 40 by an appropriate fastener or the like. In the illustrated example, the retaining portion 45 has a generally rectangular parallelepiped shape and is fixed to the upper rail 40 by being fitted between the protruding pieces 42, 42 on both sides of the upper rail 40. The retaining portion 45 is provided at one longitudinal end of the upper rail 40 so that one longitudinal side surface of the retaining portion 45 is substantially flush with one longitudinal end face of the upper rail 40. The vertical dimension of the retaining portion 45 may be any dimension so as not to interfere with the upper frame 5 when the upper rail 40 is fixed to the upper frame 5. In the illustrated example, the dimension of the holding portion 45 in the vertical direction is smaller than the dimension of the fixing portion 47, the upper end of which is received in the receiving groove 5b of the upper frame 5, in the vertical direction.

[0032] The retaining portion 45 is provided with a first locking recess 46A on one side in the door thickness direction and a second locking recess 46B on the other side in the door thickness direction as locking recesses 46. In other words, the retaining portion 45 is provided with the first locking recess 46A on one side in the door thickness direction to lock the locking protrusion 38 when the receiving unit 34 is attached, and the second locking recess 46B on the other side in the door thickness direction to lock the locking protrusion 38 when the receiving unit 34 is attached. The first locking recess 46A and the second locking recess 46B are provided so as to be aligned with each other when viewed in the rail width direction (door thickness direction). In this embodiment, a plurality of first locking recesses 46A and second locking recesses 46B (two in the illustrated example) are provided at intervals in the rail longitudinal direction on each side of the retaining portion 45 in the door thickness direction. The first locking recess 46A and the second locking recess 46B have the same configuration, so one of them will be described below as an example of the locking recess 46.

[0033] The locking recess 46 is provided at the outer portion of the retaining portion 45 in the door thickness direction so as to open upward and outward in the door thickness direction. The locking recess 46 is provided so as to extend in the vertical direction. At both opening edges in the width direction (longitudinal direction of the rail) on the outer side of the door thickness direction of the locking recess 46, retaining walls that prevent the large diameter portion of the locking protrusion 38 (described below) from coming out are formed to reduce the opening width. The dimensions of the locking recess 46 in the vertical direction, its depth in the door thickness direction, and the width between the retaining walls on both sides are appropriately set so as to be able to receive the locking protrusion 38 and to prevent the received locking protrusion 38 from moving downward and horizontally relative to the retaining portion 45.

[0034] The receiving unit 34 is attached to the holding portion 45 so as to fit along one of the side surfaces of the upper rail 40 on one side in the door thickness direction and the other side in the door thickness direction. The receiving unit 34 has a generally rectangular parallelepiped shape. In the illustrated example, the receiving unit 34 is attached to the holding portion 45 so that one side surface in the rail longitudinal direction is approximately flush with one longitudinal end face of the upper rail 40 and so that the bottom surface is approximately flush with the bottom surface of the upper rail 40. A locking protrusion 38 is provided on the upper rail 40 side of the receiving unit 34 so as to protrude along the door thickness direction. In this embodiment, the receiving unit 34 is provided with a plurality of (two in the illustrated example) locking protrusions 38, 38 spaced apart in the rail longitudinal direction, which lock into locking recesses 46, 46 provided at multiple locations in the rail longitudinal direction. These locking projections 38, 38 are provided so as to be positioned at the center in the rail longitudinal direction and at one end in the rail longitudinal direction of the receiving unit 34, which has a dimension along the rail longitudinal direction larger than that of the holding portion 45. The tip ends of these locking projections 38, 38 in the protruding direction are provided with large-diameter portions that are larger in diameter than the base-end portions.

[0035] In the illustrated example, these locking protrusions 38, 38 are male screws that screw into female screw portions 39 provided on the receiving unit 34, and the screw heads are large-diameter portions. In the illustrated example, the receiving unit 34 is provided with three female screw portions 39 spaced apart in the longitudinal direction of the rail, and the locking protrusions 38, 38 are provided to selectively screw into two of these depending on the attachment side to the holding portion 45. In other words, when the receiving unit 34 is attached to the opposite side of the holding portion 45 from the illustrated example, the locking protrusions 38 that screw into the female screw portions 39 on one side of the longitudinal direction of the rail may be removed and screwed into the female screw portions 39 on the other side of the longitudinal direction of the rail.

[0036] One of the receiving unit 34 and the holding portion 45 may be provided with a socket into which a connection terminal provided on the other may be inserted. For example, the holding portion 45 may be provided with a connection terminal via a cord that is electrically connected to the drive-side control unit 55, the power supply unit, etc. and can be led out to either side in the door thickness direction, and the receiving unit 34 may be provided with a socket into which this connection terminal is inserted. A configuration may be possible in which the connection terminal is inserted into this socket to electrically connect the drive-side control unit 55, the power supply unit, etc. to various devices including the receiving unit 35. Any excess cord from the connection terminal may be stored by being pushed into an empty space within the receiving unit 34 or the holding portion 45. The locking protrusion 38 of the receiving unit 34 and the locking recess 46 of the holding portion 45 to which it is locked are not limited to the example described above, and may have various other configurations. In the example described above, the locking protrusion 38 is provided on the receiving unit 34 and the locking recess 46 is provided on the holding portion 45, but these may also be provided on the opposite sides. In other words, the locking protrusion 38 may be provided on the holding portion 45, and the locking recess 46 may be provided on the receiving unit 34.

[0037] The receiving section 35 provided in the receiving unit 34 is configured to be able to receive signals transmitted from the transmitting section 19. The transmitting section 19 and the receiving section 35 may be configured to be able to transmit and receive infrared communication. In this case, the transmitting section 19 may be provided with an appropriate light-emitting section that irradiates infrared light, such as an infrared LED, and the receiving section 35 may be provided with an appropriate light-receiving section that receives infrared light. In this case, an appropriate transmitting section, such as an optical filter that transmits infrared light from the transmitting section 19, may be provided on the underside of the receiving unit 34. The transmitting section 19 and the receiving section 35 may also be configured to use various other wireless communication methods.

[0038] 2(d) and 9, the receiving unit 34 is provided with a mode switching operation unit 36 ​​that switches between a first mode and a second mode, which will be described later. With this configuration, the mode switching operation unit 36 ​​can be made less noticeable, and unintentional switching operations can be prevented. In the illustrated example, the mode switching operation unit 36 ​​is a slide switch that is slid on the underside of the receiving unit 34, but is not limited to this configuration. The receiving unit 34 is provided with a set time change operation unit 37 that changes the predetermined set time for which the sliding door panel 30 is maintained in the open position (fully open position) in the first mode, which will be described later. With this configuration, it is possible to change the time for which the door panel 30 is maintained in the open position in the first mode. In the illustrated example, one of the multiple dip switches provided on the underside of the receiving unit 34 serves as the set time change operation unit 37, but the present invention is not limited to this configuration.

[0039] The receiving unit 34 may be provided with a speed change operation unit that changes the opening / closing speed of the sliding door panel 30, a channel switching operation unit that switches channels to suppress communication interference with the transmitting unit 19 of other sliding door devices 1, etc. The receiving unit 34 may be provided with a light-emitting unit such as an LED as a display unit that displays the operating status. The receiving unit 34 may be provided with a sound-emitting unit such as a buzzer as an alarm unit that notifies of operation. In the above example, the receiving unit 34 attached to the upper rail 40 is provided with a mode switching operation unit 36, a set time change operation unit 37, etc., but all or any of these may be provided in an appropriate location on the wall body 3 or on the sensor unit 10 described below.

[0040] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 8 , the sliding door device 1 includes covers 48, 48 provided on both sides of the upper rail 40 in the door thickness direction to cover the gap between the upper frame 5 and the upper rail 40. This configuration makes it possible to make the drive mechanism 50 and other components provided above the upper rail 40 less noticeable. These covers 48, 48 are provided between the upper frame 5 and the upper rail 40, as well as to cover the outer surface of the upper rail 40 in the door thickness direction. These covers 48, 48 are shaped like long fascia panels extending in the rail longitudinal direction. The cover 48 provided on the side opposite the sleeve wall 4 (on the inside of the room), which is on one side in the door thickness direction, has a length corresponding to the dimension along the rail longitudinal direction between the trailing edge vertical frame 7 and the receiving unit 34, as shown in FIG. 1( a). The cover 48 provided on the sleeve wall 4 side (on the outside of the room), which is on the other side in the door thickness direction, has a length corresponding to the dimension along the rail longitudinal direction between the leading edge vertical frame 6 and the middle mullion 8, as shown in FIG. 1( b).

[0041] As shown in Fig. 8, these covers 48 are provided with locking portions 49 that lock onto the protruding portions 42 of the upper rail 40, which serve as locked portions. With this configuration, the covers 48 can be attached to the upper rail 40 by locking the locking portions 49 of the covers 48 with the protruding portions 42 of the upper rail 40. The locking portions 49 and the protruding portions 42 of the upper rail 40 are configured to lock together so as to prevent the covers 48 attached to the upper rail 40 from moving downward and in the door thickness direction. The locking portions 49 are provided from the middle of the surface of each cover 48 facing the upper rail 40 in the vertical direction toward the center (upper rail 40) in the door thickness direction, and have a protrusion that protrudes downward at the tip of the protruding direction. These covers 48, 48 are attached to the upper rail 40, and with the upper rail 40 fixed to the upper frame 5, the upper end faces 48a, 48a, which are the upper surfaces of the covers 48, 48, abut against or closely face the underside 5a of the upper frame 5. With this configuration, if the covers 48, 48 are attached to the upper rail 40 with the locking portions 49, 49 engaging with the protruding portions 42, 42, and the upper rail 40 is then fixed to the upper frame 5, the upper end faces 48a, 48 of the covers 48, 48 abut against or closely face the underside 5a of the upper frame 5. As a result, the mutual engagement between the underside 5a of the upper frame 5 and the locking portions 49, 49 and the protruding portions 42, 42 restricts movement of the covers 48, 48, and makes it possible to inhibit the covers 48, 48 from being unintentionally detached. When the upper end surfaces 48a, 48a of each cover 48, 48 are brought close to the lower surface 5a of the upper frame 5, the dimension between the lower surface 5a and the upper end surfaces 48a, 48a may be an appropriate dimension so that the engagement between the locking portions 49, 49 and the protruding pieces 42, 42 is not released.

[0042] The lower ends of these covers 48, 48 are provided with engaging protrusions 48b, 48b that engage with the lower ends of the side plate-shaped portions on both sides of the upper rail 40. These engaging protrusions 48b, 48b are provided so as to protrude from the lower end of each cover 48, 48 toward the center (upper rail 40) in the door thickness direction. These engaging protrusions 48b, 48b are located close to the lower ends of each side plate-shaped portion when each cover 48, 48 is attached to the upper rail 40. This prevents the locking portions 49, 49 from disengaging from the protrusions 42, 42. These covers 48, 48 may be attached to the upper rail 40 with elastic deformation. These covers 48, 48 may be, for example, molded synthetic resin products. The covers 48, 48 that cover the gap between the upper frame 5 and the upper rail 40 are not limited to the configuration described above. They may also be fixed to the upper rail 40 with an appropriate adhesive, fastener, or other various configurations.

[0043] As shown in FIG. 7, the above-described upper rail 40 may be fixed to the upper frame 5 of a door frame installed in an opening, with the drive mechanism 50 assembled and the receiving unit 34 attached to one side of the holding portion 45 in the door thickness direction. In this case, as shown in FIGS. 8(a) and 8(b), the covers 48, 48 on both sides in the door thickness direction may be attached to the upper rail 40 in a state where the fixing portion 47 is temporarily held to the upper frame 5 by using a fastener such as a screw or by hooking it onto a hook provided on the upper frame 5. In other words, the covers 48, 48 may be attached to the upper rail 40 in a state where the upper rail 40 is temporarily held with a gap formed between the top surface of the fixing portion 47 and the bottom of the receiving groove 5b. Then, as shown in FIG. 8(c), the fixing portion 47 may be permanently fixed by tightening a fastener that secures it to the upper frame 5. This causes the upper surface 34a of the receiving unit 34 and the upper end surfaces 48a, 48a of each cover 48, 48 to abut or closely face the lower surface 5a of the upper frame 5, preventing the receiving unit 34 and each cover 48, 48 from detaching from the upper rail 40.

[0044] The detection units 16, 26 are provided at the handle position of the sliding door panel 30. With this configuration, when moving the sliding door panel 30 in the opening / closing direction, it is easy to hold your hand over the detection units 16, 26, and even when incorporating it into sliding door panels 30 with different door height dimensions, there is no need to incorporate a separate part, and parts can be standardized. Furthermore, compared to a configuration in which the detection units 16, 26 that constitute the operating unit are provided on the wall 3 around the entrance / exit 9, for example, workability can be improved. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9 , the detection units 16, 26 include first sensors 17, 27 and second sensors 18, 28, which have a narrower detection range than the first sensors 17, 27 and output a detection signal. The second sensors 18, 28 are configured to be activated when the first sensors 17, 27 detect a detection target. With this configuration, when the first sensors 17, 27, which have a relatively wider detection range, detect a detection target and the second sensors 18, 28 also detect the detection target, a detection signal is output, thereby reducing false detections and unintended opening and closing. In other words, as will be described in detail later, if a finger or the like is brought close to the detection unit 16, 26 while the first sensors 17, 27 detect a detection target, the second sensors 18, 28 detect it and move the sliding door panel 30 in the opening and closing direction. On the other hand, even if the first sensors 17, 27 detect the detection target, if a finger or the like is not brought close to the detection units 16, 26, the second sensors 18, 28 will not detect it and the sliding door panel 30 will not open or close. Also, since the second sensors 18, 28 are activated when the first sensors 17, 27 detect the detection target, it is possible to conserve power while suppressing false detections such as those described above.

[0045] As shown in Figure 4(b), a battery housing 13 is provided at the handle position of the sliding door panel 30 to house replaceable batteries 29 that serve as the power source for the detection units 16, 26 and the transmission unit 19. With this configuration, wiring and the like are easier than, for example, when power is supplied from outside the sliding door panel 30 or the battery housing 13 is provided at a position away from the handle position, and maintenance such as battery replacement can be performed more easily. The detectors 16, 26 are provided on both sides in the door thickness direction. With this configuration, the sliding door panel 30 can be slid in the door width direction by bringing a detection target, such as a hand, close to the detectors 16, 26 provided at the handle positions on both sides in the door thickness direction. The detectors 16, 26 include an indoor-side detector 16 as a first-side detector that detects the detection target on the first side 31 of the sliding door panel 30's two sides in the door thickness direction, and an outdoor-side detector 26 as a second-side detector that detects the detection target on the other second side 32.

[0046] The indoor-side detection unit 16 and the transmission unit 19 are provided in the first sensor case 11, which protrudes in the door thickness direction on the first surface 31 side of the handle. The outdoor-side detection unit 26 is provided in the second sensor case 21, which is provided on the second surface 32 side of the handle so that the surface 21a is substantially flush with the second surface 32. This configuration allows for a larger effective opening width and a smaller gap with the wall surface (in this embodiment, the sleeve wall 4). In other words, by installing the sliding door panel 30 so that the second surface 32, which is the second sensor case 21 side, faces the wall surface, there is no need to leave a gap or increase the gap between the sliding door panel 30 and the wall surface. Furthermore, because the transmission unit 19 is provided in the first sensor case 11, which protrudes in the door thickness direction, communication problems with the reception unit 35 can be prevented.

[0047] As shown in Figures 4(b) and 5(b), the first sensor case part 11 and the second sensor case part 21 are separate parts and can be attached to either side of the sliding door panel 30 in the door thickness direction. With this configuration, the first sensor case part 11 and the second sensor case part 21 can be attached to the sliding door panel 30 so that the second sensor case part 21, which is the non-protruding side, faces the wall surface depending on whether the sliding door panel 30 is installed as a right- or left-hand sliding door (left-right sliding specification). In other words, the first sensor case part 11 and the second sensor case part 21 can be used as common parts regardless of the left- or right-hand sliding door specification of the sliding door panel 30. The portion of the first sensor case portion 11 that protrudes in the door thickness direction on the first surface 31 side constitutes the handle protrusion 12, and the second sensor case portion 21 is provided with a handle recess 23 that opens on the surface 21a. With this configuration, when manually opening or closing the sliding door panel 30, the sliding door panel 30 can be opened or closed by placing a hand on the handle protrusion 12 of the first sensor case portion 11 or the handle recess 23 of the second sensor case portion 21.

[0048] One of the first sensor case 11 and the second sensor case 21 is provided with a battery housing 13 and a lid 14 for opening and closing the battery housing 13. This configuration allows for easy maintenance, such as battery replacement, by opening the lid 14. This facilitates wiring and other tasks compared to a configuration in which the battery housing 13 is provided at a pull tab location separate from the first sensor case 11 and the second sensor case 21. In this embodiment, the battery housing 13 and the lid 14 are provided on the first sensor case 11 side. From the perspectives of preventing malfunctions and maintenance, this configuration allows for the battery housing 13 and the lid 14 to be provided on the first sensor case 11 side, which is the side where the receiver 35 is provided (the indoor side). This allows for easy maintenance, such as battery replacement, on the indoor side, and also prevents unintentional battery removal and other tasks from occurring on the outdoor side.

[0049] The first sensor case 11 and the second sensor case 21 are elongated in the door height direction. The surfaces 11a and 21a of the first sensor case 11 and the second sensor case 21 are provided with markers 11d and 21d, which serve as markers for bringing the detection target into proximity. The surfaces 11a and 21a of the first sensor case 11 and the second sensor case 21 are provided with detection windows (second detection windows) 11c and 21c for the second sensors 18 and 28, which are located adjacent to one side of the markers 11d and 21d in the door height direction. The surfaces 11a and 21a of the first sensor case 11 and the second sensor case 21 are provided with detection windows (first detection windows) 11b and 21b for the first sensors 17 and 27, which are located adjacent to one side of the second detection windows 11c and 21c in the door height direction. With this configuration, it becomes easier for the user to recognize the location where the hand or the like is to approach, and the approaching hand or the like can be effectively detected by the second sensors 18, 28 provided adjacent to the markers 11d, 21d. Also, because the first detection windows 11b, 21b of the first sensors 17, 27 are provided adjacent to one side of the second detection windows 11c, 21c of the second sensors 18, 28 in the door height direction, it is possible to consolidate functional parts even while providing the above-mentioned markers 11d, 21d.

[0050] Specifically, the first sensor case portion 11 and the second sensor case portion 21 constitute a unitized sensor unit 10, as shown in Figures 3 to 5. With this configuration, wiring or the like for supplying power from outside the sensor unit 10 can be eliminated. The first sensor case part 11 and the second sensor case part 21 are assembled and integrated by inserting their insertion parts into mounting holes 33 provided through the sliding door panel 30 in the door thickness direction at the handle position, and fastening devices such as screws are used. 3, the sensor unit 10 is generally rectangular parallelepiped in the state where the first sensor case part 11 and the second sensor case part 21 are assembled together. The length dimension along the door height direction (vertical direction) and the width dimension along the door width direction of the first sensor case part 11 and the second sensor case part 21 are generally the same.

[0051] As shown in FIGS. 2(c) and 3(c)-(f), the handle protrusion 12 of the first sensor case portion 11 is larger than the dimensions of the mounting hole 33 in the door height direction and the door width direction, and includes a flange-shaped portion formed to cover the entire periphery of the opening edge of the mounting hole 33. This handle protrusion 12 may be provided on a portion of the first sensor case portion 11 in the door height direction or a portion of the door width direction, but in the illustrated example, it is configured as a portion that protrudes uniformly from the first surface 31 over the entire first sensor case portion 11 in the door height direction and the door width direction. The protrusion dimension of this handle protrusion 12 from the first surface 31 may be an appropriate dimension from the perspectives of ease of handling and appearance, etc. The protrusion dimension of this handle protrusion 12 from the first surface 31 may be, for example, approximately 5 mm to 20 mm, and preferably 10 mm or less.

[0052] As shown in FIG. 4(b), the battery housing 13 of the first sensor case 11 is provided on the surface 11a of the first sensor case 11 so as to open outward in the door thickness direction. In the illustrated example, the battery housing 13 is configured to house a plurality of (four in the illustrated example) cylindrical batteries (primary batteries) 29. The batteries 29 housed in the battery housing 13 are not limited to cylindrical batteries and may be flat six-layer batteries, so-called button batteries, or the like. The bottom of the battery housing 13 is provided with an insertion hole through which a fastener such as a screw is inserted to be threaded into an internally threaded portion of the second sensor case 21. The first sensor case 11 and the second sensor case 21 may be attached to the sliding door panel 30 by inserting their insertion portions into the mounting holes 33 and butting against each other, and then screwing a fastener into the internally threaded portion of the second sensor case 21 through the insertion hole at the bottom of the battery housing 13. Lid 14 is configured to be detachably attached to first sensor case 11 so as to fit into the opening of battery housing 13. When attached to first sensor case 11, lid 14 is configured so that its surface is substantially flush with surface 11a of first sensor case 11, constituting surface 11a.

[0053] This lid 14 is configured to be attached to first sensor case 11 with fasteners such as screws that are screwed in from the side of second sensor case 21. With this configuration, unintentional removal of battery 29 can be prevented, compared to a configuration in which both lid 14 and battery 29 can be removed from the first sensor case 11 side. The cover 14 has a first longitudinal end (the upper end in the illustrated example) provided with an engagement protrusion as an engagement portion that engages (fits into) an engagement recess as an engaged portion provided on the inner wall of the battery housing portion 13. The cover 14 has a second longitudinal end (the lower end in the illustrated example) on the back side (the second sensor case portion 21 side) with a female thread portion to which a fastener that is screwed from the second sensor case portion 21 side is threaded, as shown in FIG. 5( b). The cover 14 is attached to the first sensor case portion 11 by fitting the engagement protrusion at the upper end into the engagement recess of the battery housing portion 13 and screwing the fastener into the female thread portion at the lower end from the second sensor case portion 21 side. The cover 14 can be removed from the first sensor case portion 11 by removing the fastener that is threaded into the female thread portion at the lower end of the cover 14 from the second sensor case portion 21 side and disengaging the engagement protrusion at the upper end from the engagement recess of the battery housing portion 13.

[0054] The attachment mode of lid 14 is not limited to the above-described configuration, and various other configurations may be used. Furthermore, lid 14 need only be configured to be able to open and close the opening of battery housing section 13 so as to enable replacement of battery 29, and is not limited to being detachable from first sensor case section 11, and may be connected to first sensor case section 11 so as to be rotatable around one end section as a fulcrum. 4, the marking portion 11d on the surface 11a side of the first sensor case portion 11 is provided on the surface side of this lid body 14. This marking portion 11d may be a character such as "hold your hand over it", a picture of fingers, or a pictogram. The second detection window 11c on the front surface 11a of the first sensor case 11 is provided so as to be positioned above the marker 11d on one side in the door height direction. The second sensor (indoor-side second sensor) 18 of the first sensor case 11 is provided so as to be positioned on the back side (second sensor case 21 side) of the second detection window 11c.

[0055] The first detection window 11b on the front surface 11a side of the first sensor case 11 is provided so as to be located above the second detection window 11c on one side in the door height direction. The first sensor (indoor-side first sensor) 17 of the first sensor case 11 is provided so as to be located on the back side (second sensor case 21 side) of the first detection window 11b. The first detection window 11b and the second detection window 11c are provided at an interval in the door height direction at the upper end portion of the first sensor case portion 11. The first detection window 11b and the second detection window 11c may be provided as through-holes so as to expose at least the transmitting portion (light-emitting portion) and receiving portion (light-receiving portion) of the indoor-side first sensor 17 and the indoor-side second sensor 18, or may be transparent portions having transparency. A lighting window 11e is provided on the front surface 11a of the first sensor case 11 to transmit light from a lamp or the like that serves as a battery replacement notification unit that indicates the remaining life of the battery 29 (when to replace the battery 29). In the illustrated example, the lighting window 11e is provided adjacent to one side of the second detection window 11c in the door width direction.

[0056] The first sensor case 11 is provided with an appropriate transmitting section 15 such as an optical filter that transmits the signal (infrared rays) from the transmitting section 19. In the illustrated example, the transmitting section 15 is provided so as to form the upper end surface of the handle protrusion 12 of the first sensor case 11. A light-emitting section such as an infrared LED that constitutes the transmitting section 19 is provided on the back side (lower side) of this transmitting section 15. This transmitting section 19 may be appropriately configured so as to be able to transmit a detection signal to the receiving section 35 of the receiving unit 34 that is located approximately directly above the sliding door panel 30 when it is in the closed position, and that is located diagonally above it when it is in the fully open position.

[0057] As shown in FIGS. 2(c) and 5(a), in this embodiment, the second sensor case 21 has a surface 21a located slightly outward in the door thickness direction relative to the second surface 32 of the sliding door panel 30. The surface 21a of the second sensor case 21 and the second surface 32 of the sliding door panel 30 being substantially coplanar includes not only being completely coplanar, but also a configuration in which there is a step of approximately 3 mm or less between them. The step between the surface 21a of the second sensor case 21 and the second surface 32 may be preferably 2 mm or less, from the perspective of suppressing interference with the sleeve wall 4 (middle mullion 8). In the illustrated example, the second sensor case 21 is provided with a flange 22 formed to cover the entire periphery of the opening of the mounting hole 33, and the thickness of the flange 22 constitutes the step between the surface 21a of the second sensor case 21 and the second surface 32. Instead of this embodiment, a recessed step for receiving the flange portion 22 may be provided around the entire periphery of the opening periphery of the mounting hole 33 .

[0058] As shown in Fig. 5, the handhold recess 23 of the second sensor case portion 21 is provided on the surface 21a of the second sensor case portion 21 so as to open outward in the door thickness direction. The handhold recess 23 is provided so as to be located at the lower end of the second sensor case portion 21. An insertion hole is provided so as to open at the bottom side of the handhold recess 23, through which a fastener that screws into the female thread portion at the lower end of the lid 14 is inserted. With this configuration, the fastener that secures the lid 14 can be made less noticeable. The depth dimension of this handhold recess 23 along the door thickness direction and the dimensions along the door height direction and door width direction may be set to appropriate dimensions so that a handhold is possible. The dimensions of this handhold recess 23 along the door height direction and door width direction may be dimensions so that one or several fingers can be inserted. The depth dimension of this handhold recess 23 may be approximately 5 mm to 20 mm.

[0059] 5, the marker portion 21d on the front surface 21a of the second sensor case portion 21 is provided so as to be located above the recessed handle 23 on one side in the door height direction. The marker portion 21d may have a configuration similar to the marker portion 11d described above. The marker portions 11d and 21d may be provided so as to be located at approximately the same height. The second detection window 21c on the front surface 21a of the second sensor case 21 is provided so as to be located above the marker 21d on one side in the door height direction. The second sensor (outdoor second sensor) 28 of the second sensor case 21 is provided so as to be located on the back side (first sensor case 11 side) of the second detection window 21c.

[0060] The first detection window 21b on the front surface 21a side of the second sensor case portion 21 is provided so as to be located above the second detection window 21c on one side in the door height direction. The first sensor (outdoor first sensor) 27 of the second sensor case portion 21 is provided so as to be located on the back side (first sensor case portion 11 side) of the first detection window 21b. The first detection window 21b and the second detection window 21c are provided at an interval in the door height direction at the upper end portion of the second sensor case portion 21. As described above, the first detection window 21b and the second detection window 21c may be provided as through-holes so as to expose at least the transmitters (light-emitting units) and receivers (light-receiving units) of the first outdoor sensor 27 and the second outdoor sensor 28, or may be transparent portions having transparency. The first detection window 21b and the second detection window 21c may be provided so as to be positioned at approximately the same height as the first detection window 11b and the second detection window 11c of the first sensor case portion 11, respectively, as shown in FIGS. 3(a) and 3(b).

[0061] The first sensors 17, 27 of the first sensor case 11 and the second sensor case 21 have the same configuration and are configured to have a relatively wide detection range. Such first sensors 17, 27 may be human sensors such as pyroelectric infrared sensors that detect changes in heat (far infrared rays). The detection range of these first sensors 17, 27 may be an area with a spread angle of 30 degrees or more in both the horizontal and vertical directions, and the detection distance may be approximately 1 meter or more and 10 meters or less, preferably approximately 5 meters or less. The second sensors 18, 28 of the first sensor case 11 and the second sensor case 21 are configured with a relatively narrow detection range. These second sensors 18, 28 may be distance sensors, such as reflective infrared distance sensors with integrated light-emitting and receiving sections. The detection range of these second sensors 18, 28 may be a generally linear area along the door thickness direction, with a detection distance of 10 mm or more and 500 mm or less, preferably 300 mm or less, and more preferably 80 mm or less. This configuration allows detection of a hand or other target within a relatively close range, reducing the likelihood of unintended opening or closing. The first sensors 17, 27 and second sensors 18, 28 are not limited to the configurations described above and may have various other configurations.

[0062] As shown in Fig. 9, the sensor unit 10 is provided with a sensor-side control unit 20 connected via signal lines to the above-mentioned transmission unit 19, indoor-side detection unit 16, outdoor-side detection unit 26, battery replacement notification unit, etc. This sensor-side control unit 20 may be configured with a microcomputer (MCU) similar to the above. This sensor-side control unit 20 may be provided on the first sensor case 11 side. In this case, when assembling the first sensor case 11 and the second sensor case 21, the outdoor-side detection unit 26 provided on the second sensor case 21 side and the sensor-side control unit 20 may be connected by an appropriate connection terminal, etc. In the above example, the battery storage section 13 and the lid body 14 are provided in the first sensor case section 11, but they may also be provided in the second sensor case section 21, or even at a handle position outside the sensor unit 10. The sensor unit 10 is not limited to a configuration including the first sensor case portion 11 and the second sensor case portion 21 that are separate as described above, but may be configured to be an integrated unit. In this case, the sensor unit 10 itself may be detachable from the sliding door panel 30, and may have a replaceable battery.

[0063] In the above example, the sensor unit 10 is provided with a handle protrusion 12 and a handle recess 23 that form a handle portion, but the handle portion may also be provided in another part of the sliding door panel 30. In the above example, the upper rail 40 suspends and holds the sliding door panel 30, but it may also be configured to guide the upper end side of the bottom-loading sliding door panel 30. A passage detection unit that detects an object passing through the entrance / exit 9 and a main power switch may be provided at appropriate positions on the sliding door device 1. The sliding door device 1 may be provided at an appropriate location with an appropriate locking / unlocking unit such as a cylinder lock or an electric lock that releasably prevents the sliding door panel 30 from moving toward the open side when in the closed position. In the above example, the sliding door panel 30 is installed in a sleeve wall so that no remaining part is left in the fully open position, but it can also be installed in any other suitable manner, such as in a door pocket or offset. When installing in a door pocket, the door tip end may be arranged on the entrance 9 side as a remaining part so that the sensor unit 10 is exposed in the fully open position.

[0064] Next, an example of a basic operation performed in the sliding door device 1 configured as above will be described. Fig. 10 shows an example of the basic operation on the sensor unit 10 side, and Fig. 11 shows an example of the basic operation on the drive mechanism 50 side. The following basic operation is executed by controlling the above-mentioned devices in accordance with control programs pre-stored in the respective memories of the sensor-side control unit 20 and the drive-side control unit 55.

[0065] The sensor-side control unit 20 activates the second sensors 18, 28 based on the detection of the first sensors 17, 27. That is, as shown in FIG. 10 , if the first sensors 17, 27 detect a detection target such as a human body (step 100), the second sensors 18, 28 are set to an ON state in which they are capable of detection (step 101). In this state, if the second sensors 18, 28 detect a detection target such as a finger (step 102), they transmit a detection signal via the transmitter 19 (step 103). If the first sensors 17, 27 do not detect a detection target (step 100), the second sensors 18, 28 are set to an OFF state in which they are unable to detect (step 104). That is, when the sensor unit 10 is operating normally (powered ON (battery 29 remaining)), the first sensors 17, 27 are always in an operating state in which they are capable of detection, whereas the second sensors 18, 28 are in an operating state in which they are capable of detection only when the first sensors 17, 27 are in a detecting state. This makes it possible to shorten the operating time of the second sensors 18 and 28, which consume relatively large amounts of power, thereby achieving power saving.

[0066] In the first mode, the drive-side control unit 55 opens the sliding door panel 30 from the closed position based on the operation (detection) of the operation units (detection units) 16, 26, and closes the sliding door panel 30 after a predetermined set time has elapsed. In the first mode, if the user operates the operation unit (in this embodiment, the detection units 16, 26 detect the detection target), the sliding door panel 30 is opened and then closed without any operation (detection). On the other hand, in the second mode, the operation (detection) of the operation units (detection units) 16, 26 is required to slide the sliding door panel 30 from the closed position to the open position and from the open position to the closed position. Therefore, for example, if you want to keep the sliding door panel 30 temporarily open for periodic ventilation, by switching to the second mode, you can keep the sliding door panel 30 open, and you can close it by operating (detecting) the operation units (detection units) 16, 26. This improves usability compared to systems that require switching modes to close the door.

[0067] 11(a), in the first mode, when the receiver 35 receives a detection signal from the transmitter 19, it refers to the position information of the sliding door panel 30 from the position detector 56, and if it is in the closed position, it opens the sliding door panel 30 (steps 200-202). Then, after a predetermined set time (for example, about 1 to 10 seconds) has elapsed (step 203), it closes the sliding door panel 30 (step 204). In this first mode, if the passage detector as described above is provided, the sliding door panel 30 may not be closed if the passage detector detects a detection target, and may be closed if it does not detect a detection target. 11(b), in the second mode, if the receiving unit 35 receives a detection signal from the transmitting unit 19 (step 300), the sliding door panel 30 is opened or closed (steps 300 to 304) by referring to the position information of the sliding door panel 30 from the position detecting unit 56. That is, if the sliding door panel 30 is in the closed position (step 301), the sliding door panel 30 is opened (step 302), and if the sliding door panel 30 is in the open position (step 303), the sliding door panel 30 is closed (step 304).

[0068] The basic operations performed in the sliding door device 1 according to this embodiment are not limited to the above-described aspects, and various other operations can also be performed. In addition to the first mode and the second mode, the above-described mode switching operation unit 36 ​​may be further capable of switching to a one-way mode that allows passage only from one side, a closed mode that prohibits passage, etc. Alternatively, instead of a configuration that selectively executes such first mode and second mode, it may be possible to execute only one of the modes.

[0069] Next, a modified example of the door opening and closing device will be described with reference to FIG. The following mainly describes the differences from the above-mentioned example, and the same components are designated by the same reference numerals and their explanations are omitted or simplified. The explanations of the same effects as those of the above-mentioned example are also omitted or simplified.

[0070] The door opening and closing device 2A according to this modification is configured as a sliding door device 1A together with a sliding door panel 30, similar to the above-mentioned example. As shown in FIGS. 12(a) to 12(c), this modification differs from the above-described example mainly in the configurations of a fixing portion 47A and a cover 48A. In this modified example, upper rail 40, including fixed portion 47A, has a plurality of interlocking portions (projecting portions) 42, 47a spaced apart above and below it. Cover 48A has locking portions 49, 49A that lock onto these interlocking portions (projecting portions) 42, 47a, respectively. This configuration improves the attachment strength of cover 48A to upper rail 40. In this modified example, similar to the example described above, interlocking portions (projecting portions) 42, 47a and locking portions 49, 49A are configured to lock onto each other to prevent downward and thicknesswise movement of cover 48A attached to upper rail 40. When cover 48A is attached to upper rail 40 and upper rail 40 is fixed to upper frame 5, upper end surface 48a of cover 48A abuts or faces closely to the lower surface 5a of upper frame 5.

[0071] In this modified example, the latched portions (projecting pieces) 42, 47a are composed of the same projecting piece 42 provided on the upper rail 40 as described above, and a latched portion 47a provided on the fixed portion 47A. The fixed portion 47A has latched portions 47a, 47a on both sides in the door thickness direction. These latched portions 47a, 47a are provided so as to be in close proximity to the underside 5a of the upper frame 5 when the upper rail 40 is fixed to the upper frame 5. These latched portions 47a, 47a are provided so as to project outward in the door thickness direction from a vertically intermediate portion of the fixed portion 47A, and are configured to have a projection that projects upward at the tip of the projecting direction.

[0072] As described above, a locking portion 49 that locks onto the protruding piece 42 of the upper rail 40 is provided at a vertically intermediate portion of the cover 48A. A locking portion 49A that locks onto the locked portion 47a of the fixing portion 47A is provided at the upper end of the cover 48A. As generally similar to the above, the locking portion 49A at the upper end is configured to protrude from the upper end of the cover 48A toward the upper rail 40, with a protrusion that protrudes downward at the tip of the protruding portion. The locking portion 49A is configured to be sandwiched between the locked portion 47a and the lower surface 5a of the upper frame 5 when the upper rail 40 is fixed to the upper frame 5. This configuration more effectively prevents unintentional detachment of the cover 48A.

[0073] In this modified example, similarly to the above, as shown in Figures 12(a) and (b), the covers 48A, 48A on both sides in the door thickness direction may be attached to the upper rail 40 while the upper rail 40 is temporarily held relative to the upper frame 5. Then, as shown in Figure 12(c), the fixing portion 47A may be permanently fixed by tightening a fastener that fixes the fixing portion 47A to the upper frame 5. This causes the upper end surfaces 48a, 48a of each cover 48A, 48A to abut or closely face the lower surface 5a of the upper frame 5, and the locking portions 49A, 49A at the upper ends of each cover 48A, 48A are sandwiched between the lower surface 5a of the upper frame 5 and the locked portions 47a, 47a of the fixing portion 47A. In this modified example, upper rail 40 is provided with protruding piece 42 as a locked portion, and fixed portion 47A is provided with locked portion 47a, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, locked portions may be provided at multiple locations other than fixed portion 47A of upper rail 40, or locked portions may be provided at multiple locations on fixed portion 47A. The locked portions (protruding piece portions) 42, 47a of upper rail 40 and locking portions 49, 49A of cover 48A are not limited to the configurations described in the above examples, and may have various other configurations.

[0074] In each of the above examples, the indoor side detection unit 16 and the outdoor side detection unit 26 are provided with the first sensor 17, 27 and the second sensor 18, 28, but instead of this configuration, the indoor side detection unit 16 and the outdoor side detection unit 26 may each be provided with a single sensor. In the above examples, the detection units 16, 26 that constitute the operating unit are provided on both sides of the sliding door panel 30 in the door thickness direction, but they may be provided on only one side in the door thickness direction. In the above examples, the operation unit is a non-contact type detection unit 16, 26, but it may be a contact type operation unit such as a push button. Also, the operation unit and transmission unit 19 are not limited to being provided on the sliding door panel 30, but may be provided on the wall 3 around the entrance 9, etc. The configurations of the above-described devices, members and parts of the door opening and closing devices 2, 2A and the sliding door devices 1, 1A equipped therewith according to this embodiment are merely examples, and various other modifications are possible. [Explanation of symbols]

[0075] 1,1A Sliding door device 2,2A Door opening and closing device 5 Upper frame (fixed target) 5a Bottom side 16 Indoor detection unit (operation unit) 19 Transmitter 26 Outdoor detector (operator) 30 Sliding door panel 34 Receiving unit (receiving part) 34a Top 38 Locking protrusion 40 Upper rail 42 Projection piece (locked part) 45 Holding part 46 Locking recess 47A Fixed part 47a Locked part 48,48A Cover 48a Upper end surface (top surface) 49,49A Locking part 50 Drive mechanism 55 Drive side control unit (control unit)

Claims

1. The sliding door panel includes an upper rail that guides the upper end of the sliding door panel in the door width direction, a drive mechanism that slides the sliding door panel in the door width direction, a receiving unit connected to a control unit that controls the drive mechanism, an operating unit that accepts operations to slide the sliding door panel, and a transmitting unit that is located on one side in the door thickness direction and wirelessly transmits an operating signal from the operating unit to the receiving unit, A door opening and closing device characterized in that the upper rail is provided with a holding portion that allows the receiving unit to be selectively attached to either side of the upper rail in the door thickness direction and that holds the receiving unit.

2. In claim 1, A door opening and closing device, characterized in that one of the receiving unit and the holding unit is provided with a locking recess that receives a locking protrusion provided on the other unit.

3. In claim 2, A door opening and closing device, characterized in that the locking protrusion is provided on the receiving part, and the locking recess is provided on both sides of the holding part in the door thickness direction.

4. In claim 2 or 3, A door opening and closing device characterized in that the locking protrusion and the locking recess are configured to lock with each other so as to prevent the receiving unit, which is attached to the holding unit from above, from moving downward and horizontally.

5. In claim 4, A door opening and closing device characterized in that the receiving unit is attached to the holding unit, and when the upper rail is fixed to a fixed object, its upper surface abuts or faces closely to the lower surface of the fixed object.

6. In any one of claims 1 to 5, A door opening and closing device characterized by having covers attached to both sides of the upper rail in the door thickness direction so as to cover the area between the upper rail and the object to which the upper rail is fixed, and these covers have locking portions that lock onto locking portions provided on the upper rail.

7. In claim 6, A door opening and closing device characterized in that the upper rail has a fixing portion that protrudes upward to fix the upper rail to the fixed object, the engaging portions are provided at multiple locations spaced apart above and below the upper rail including the fixing portion, and the cover has an engaging portion that engages with each of these engaging portions.

8. In claim 6 or 7, The locked portion and the locking portion are configured to lock with each other so as to prevent the cover attached to the upper rail from moving downward and in the door thickness direction, and the cover is attached to the upper rail, and when the upper rail is fixed to the fixed object, its upper surface abuts or faces closely to the lower surface of the fixed object.

9. A sliding door device comprising: the door opening and closing device according to any one of claims 1 to 8; and a sliding door panel that is slid by the door opening and closing device.

Images