Distance measuring method and system for measuring distance by dividing the distance

Abstract

A distribution distance meter 100 for measuring distribution distances WL, WR to measurement target surfaces 5 positioned to the left and right of the host device on the basis of a reference center disposed in a vertical direction comprises: a reference center sensor 101 for measuring a deviation distance XC, which is a distance by which the reference center 1 deviates from a centerline provided in a detection region 20, which is a region in which the reference center 1 is detected; a pair of first distance sensors 102L, 102R for measuring first distances XL, XR as distances to the measurement target surfaces 5 positioned to the left and right; a second distance sensor 103 for measuring a second distance XR2 as a distance to the measurement target surface 5, in order to detect rotation in a horizontal plane, as the attitude of the host device; and an attitude detecting unit 104 for detecting a tilt relative to the horizontal plane as the attitude of the host device. In this way, the present invention provides a distribution distance meter, a distribution distance measuring method and a distribution distance measuring system capable of more easily measuring the distances from the reference center 1 to the measurement target surfaces 5 in both left and right directions.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a distribution rangefinder, a distribution distance measurement method, and a distribution distance measurement system.The present invention particularly relates to a distribution rangefinder, a distribution distance measurement method, and a distribution distance measurement system that are suitable for measuring the distance to measurement target surfaces located on the left and right of the device itself. [Background technology]

[0002] In the construction of building structures and the assembly of machinery and equipment, positioning is often performed by measuring the distribution distance from a reference center to equal positions on the left and right. For this reason, a distribution distance meter that is also suitable for subsequent quality control is desired. Generally, the reference center is a vertical line, and in this case, workers measure the distribution distance using a ruler or convex, using a plumb bob (a weight with an inverted cone-shaped weight attached to one end of a string hung from the ceiling or beam as the reference center.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a device for measuring the displacement of a measurement surface relative to a vertical line. This device uses a photoelectric position detection device to measure the position of a plumb line non-contact at high speed, and software for calculating the position of the plumb line within the measurement range is used to calculate the vertical position of the plumb line, even when the plumb line is oscillating, and this determines the displacement of the measurement point relative to the vertical line. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2011-247862 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, when the measurement targets are mainly pillars, walls, etc., and the measurement targets are far from the reference center, it is difficult to apply convex or other methods. In addition, it is difficult to simultaneously measure the distances between measurement targets placed on both the left and right sides of the reference center using convex or other methods. An object of the present invention is to provide a dividing range finder, a dividing distance measurement method, and a dividing distance measurement system that can more easily measure the distance from a reference center to measurement target surfaces on both the left and right sides of the reference center. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to solve the above problems, the present invention provides a distributing rangefinder for measuring distributing distances to measurement target surfaces located on the left and right of the device based on a reference center arranged in the vertical direction, the distributing rangefinder including: a reference center sensor that measures a deviation distance, which is the distance the reference center deviates from a center line provided in a detection area that is an area that detects the reference center; a pair of first distance sensors that measure a first distance as the distance to the measurement target surfaces located on the left and right; a second distance sensor that measures a second distance as the distance to the measurement target surfaces in order to detect rotation in the horizontal plane as the attitude of the device; and an attitude detection unit that detects the tilt with respect to the horizontal plane as the attitude of the device. In this case, a distributing rangefinder can be provided that can more easily measure the distance from the reference center to the measurement target surfaces on both the left and right sides of the reference center.

[0007] Here, the device may further include a calculation unit that calculates the allocation distance based on the deviation distance, the first distance, and the second distance. In this case, the device itself can calculate the allocation distance. Furthermore, the calculation unit can detect rotation in the horizontal plane as the attitude of the device itself from the difference between the first distance and the second distance, thereby reducing measurement errors caused by rotation in the horizontal plane. Furthermore, when the difference between the first distance and the second distance is within a predetermined range, the calculation unit can determine the allocation distance by determining that the rotation on the horizontal plane is within a predetermined range as the attitude of the device itself. In this case, the allocation distance can be determined with high accuracy. Furthermore, the calculation unit can calculate the allocation distance by correcting the first distance with the deviation distance, which can reduce measurement errors caused by the deviation distance. The calculation unit can then calculate the distribution distance when the tilt with respect to the horizontal plane is within a predetermined range, thereby reducing measurement errors due to the tilt with respect to the horizontal plane. Furthermore, the reference center sensor, the first distance sensor, the second distance sensor, and the attitude detection unit can be arranged on the same plane by being placed on a flat plate, which makes it easy to attach the reference center sensor, the first distance sensor, the second distance sensor, and the attitude detection unit with high precision. Furthermore, the second distance sensor can measure the distance to the measurement target surface in the same direction as the first distance sensor, making it possible to measure a distance suitable for detecting rotation in a horizontal plane. Furthermore, the first distance sensor and the second distance sensor can be laser distance sensors, which makes it easier to measure the sorting distance and reduces the burden on the worker. The first distance sensor and the second distance sensor can irradiate the measurement target surface with parallel laser beams, respectively, in a direction suitable for detecting rotation in a horizontal plane. The apparatus may further include a display unit that displays the measurement results, allowing the operator to check the measurement results. Furthermore, the device can be mounted on a support leg or gimbal stabilizer, which allows for more accurate measurement of the distribution distance.

[0008] The present invention also provides a method for measuring a distribution distance, in which a processor executes software recorded in a memory to measure a deviation distance, which is the distance the reference core deviates from a center line set within a detection area that is an area for detecting a reference core arranged in the vertical direction, measures a first distance as the distance to a measurement target surface located on the left or right of the device, measures a second distance as the distance to the measurement target surface in order to detect rotation in the horizontal plane as the attitude of the device, detects tilt with respect to the horizontal plane as the attitude of the device, and calculates a distribution distance to the measurement target surface based on the deviation distance, the first distance, and the second distance. In this case, a distribution distance measurement method can be provided that can more easily measure the distance from the reference core to the measurement target surfaces on both the left and right sides of the reference core.

[0009] Furthermore, the present invention provides a distributed distance measurement system that includes a distributed distance meter for measuring distributed distances to measurement target surfaces located on the left and right of the device based on a reference center arranged in the vertical direction, and a counting device for counting the distributed distances, where the distributed distance meter includes a reference center sensor that measures a deviation distance, which is the distance the reference center deviates from a center line provided in a detection area that is an area that detects the reference center, a pair of first distance sensors that measure a first distance as the distance to the measurement target surfaces located on the left and right, a second distance sensor that measures a second distance as the distance to the measurement target surfaces in order to detect rotation in the horizontal plane as the attitude of the device, and an attitude detection unit that detects the inclination with respect to the horizontal plane as the attitude of the device.In this case, a distributed distance measurement system that can more easily measure the distance from the reference center to the measurement target surfaces on both the left and right sides of the reference center can be provided. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] It is possible to provide a distribution rangefinder, a distribution distance measurement method, and a distribution distance measurement system that can more easily measure the distance from a reference center to measurement target surfaces on both the left and right sides of the reference center. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 10 is a front view showing a method for measuring the distribution distance of the base technology. [Figure 2] FIG. 10 is a front view showing how a distribution distance is measured using a distribution distance meter with a reference center (plumb bob) as the reference. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating the basic configuration of a split-lens rangefinder. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating the basic configuration of a split-lens rangefinder. [Figure 5] FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram showing a system configuration of the distribution rangefinder shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining measurements using the distribution rangefinder shown in FIGS. 2 to 5. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating condition 3. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart for measuring a distribution distance using a distribution distance meter. [Figure 9] (a) is a side view showing the location where an escalator maintenance worker performs measurements, and (b) is a cross-sectional view taken along the line AA in (a). [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an inspection report created by the mobile terminal. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a case where the distribution rangefinder is supported by a support leg. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a case where a distribution rangefinder is supported by a gimbal stabilizer. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] The present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, the same components are designated by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations may be omitted. Furthermore, the various components of the present invention do not necessarily have to be independent entities. It is acceptable for one component to be made up of multiple parts, for multiple components to be made up of one part, for one component to be part of another, or for part of one component to overlap with part of another.

[0013] [Prerequisite technology] FIG. 1 is a front view showing a method for measuring the distribution distance in the base technology. In the figure, a worker 6 brings a measuring instrument (hereinafter also referred to as a "convex") 3 such as a ruler or tape measure close to the plumb line (for example, piano wire or nylon wire) that is the reference core 1 formed by hanging a plumb bob 2 from a plumb bob mounting surface 7 such as a ceiling or beam, and measures the distance between the measurement target surface 5 of the structure 4 and the reference core 1 (the distribution distance W L , W R ) is measured visually.

[0014] When assembling a structure 4 or device, parts may be attached to predetermined positions on either side of a reference axis (often a center line) 1, which serves as the measurement reference. For example, the rails on which the steps of a circular escalator run, and the skirt guard panels installed on both sides of the steps, need to be attached with high precision to predetermined positions on either side of the reference axis 1 in the center of the escalator, from the standpoint of safety and riding comfort. Therefore, the distance W from the reference center 1 to the left and right measurement target surfaces 5 is L , W R However, in the measurement method using the convex or the like 3 described above, the way in which the convex or the like 3 is applied (horizontally, vertically) and the way in which the scale is read relative to the swaying plumb bob (reference center 1) may differ depending on the worker 6, which may result in variations in the measurement work time and measurement results. Therefore, the inventors of the present invention have conducted extensive research and have come up with an improved distribution rangefinder 100. A basic example of this distribution rangefinder 100 will be described below with reference to Figs. 2 to 10.

[0015] [Basic example] FIG. 2 is a front view showing how a distribution distance is measured using a distribution distance meter 100 with a reference axis (plumb bob) 1 as a reference. The illustrated distributing rangefinder 100 measures the distributing distances to the measurement target surfaces 5 located on the left and right of the device based on a reference center 1 arranged in the vertical direction. In this case, the distributing rangefinder 100 is held by an operator 6. The distributing rangefinder 100 detects the position of the reference center 1 with a central reference center sensor 101. The distributing rangefinder 100 also measures the distributing distance W by directing laser beams 21L and 21R, which are irradiated on both the left and right sides of the distributing rangefinder 100, from a first distance sensor 102L located on the left side and a first distance sensor 102R located on the right side, onto the measurement target surface 5. L , W R That is, the first distance sensors 102L and 102R are laser distance sensors. It is preferable that the laser distance sensors be visible light type laser distance sensors in order to confirm whether the laser is hitting the measurement point. In this case, the first distance sensors 102L and 102R first irradiate the measurement target surface 5 with laser light 21L and 21R, respectively. The irradiation direction of the laser light 21L and the irradiation direction of the laser light 21R are on the same straight line but in opposite directions to each other. Then, the first distance sensors 102L and 102R each detect the laser light reflected from the measurement target surface 5, and measure the distance to the measurement target surface 5 based on the time required for the round trip. Furthermore, the sorting rangefinder 100 calculates the sorting distance W based on this distance. L , W R Hereinafter, when there is no need to distinguish between the pair of first distance sensors 102L and 102R, they may be simply referred to as "first distance sensors 102."

[0016] 3 and 4 are diagrams illustrating the basic configuration of the distribution rangefinder 100. FIG. Of these, Figure 3 is a view of the sorting rangefinder 100 from direction III in Figure 2, and is a schematic diagram of the sorting rangefinder 100 as viewed from above. Also, Figure 4 is a view of the sorting rangefinder 100 from direction IV in Figure 3, and is a schematic diagram of the sorting rangefinder 100 as viewed from the side of the operator 6 in Figure 2. As shown by the coordinate axes in Figure 3, the vertical direction in which the reference core 1 is suspended (the direction perpendicular to the paper surface (horizontal plane)) is defined as the Z-axis direction, the direction (width direction) of the opposing measurement target surface 5 is defined as the X-axis direction, and the front-to-back direction is defined as the Y-axis direction. Furthermore, rotations around the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis are defined as Pitch, Roll, and Yaw, respectively. Figure 4 also follows the same definitions.

[0017] The illustrated distribution rangefinder 100 is configured by attaching each component to a base plate 107, which is the base of the main body. The sorting rangefinder 100 comprises a central reference center sensor 101, and first distance sensors 102L and 102R attached to the left and right of the operator 6. The sorting rangefinder 100 also comprises a second distance sensor 103 disposed adjacent to the first distance sensor 102R, an attitude detection unit 104 that detects the attitude of the sorting rangefinder 100, and a sorting distance W L , W R The sorting rangefinder 100 comprises a calculation unit 105 for calculating the distance, a display unit 106 for displaying the measurement results to the worker 6, a communication unit 108 for communicating with an external device, a power supply 109 for supplying power to the sorting rangefinder 100, and a handle 110 for the worker 6 to hold the sorting rangefinder 100.

[0018] The reference core sensor 101 detects the reference core 1 by detecting a deviation distance (a deviation distance X c The reference center sensor 101 is preferably a CCD transmission laser sensor or the like, and detects the position where a laser beam irradiated onto a detection area 20 formed in a predetermined space in the center is blocked by the reference center 1 and casts a shadow on the sensor light receiving surface.

[0019] The first distance sensor 102 detects a first distance (first distance X L , XR ) as the first distance sensor 102. The first distance sensor 102L located on the left side of the worker 6 measures the distance from the first distance sensor 102L to the measurement target surface 5 located on the left side of the worker 6. On the other hand, the first distance sensor 102R located on the right side of the worker 6 measures the distance from the first distance sensor 102R to the measurement target surface 5 located on the right side of the worker 6.

[0020] The second distance sensor 103 is a laser distance sensor similar to the first distance sensor 102. The second distance sensor 103 irradiates the measurement target surface 5 with laser light 22, detects the laser light reflected from the measurement target surface 5, and measures the distance to the measurement target surface 5 based on the time required for the laser light to travel there and back. The second distance sensor 103 detects the rotation in the horizontal plane as the attitude of the distribution rangefinder 100, and detects the second distance (second distance X R2 ) is measured. Rotation on a horizontal plane corresponds to Yaw, which is rotation around the Z axis. In other words, the second distance sensor 103 can be said to check rotation around the Z axis, i.e., tilt in the Yaw direction. Rotation around the Z axis, i.e., tilt in the Yaw direction, is determined by whether the laser beam 21R is perpendicular to the measurement target surface 5. Specifically, the first distance sensor 102R and the second distance sensor 103 irradiate the measurement target surface 5 with parallel laser beams 21R and 22, respectively. That is, the second distance sensor 103 measures the distance to the measurement target surface 5 in the same direction as the first distance sensor 102R. The measurement values ​​of the first distance sensor 102R and the second distance sensor 103 are compared, and if they are within a predetermined value, it can be determined that the laser beam 21R of the first distance sensor 102R is approximately perpendicular to the measurement target surface 5. In practice, this process is performed by the calculation unit 105. Therefore, it can also be said that calculation unit 105 detects rotation in the horizontal plane as the attitude of its own device from the difference between the first distance and the second distance.

[0021] The attitude detection unit 104 detects the tilt with respect to a horizontal plane as the attitude of the sorting rangefinder 100. The attitude detection unit 104 is a spirit level, an acceleration sensor, an inclination sensor, or the like. The attitude detection unit 104 can detect pitch, which is rotation around the X axis, and roll, which is rotation around the Y axis. However, the attitude detection unit 104 is mainly used to allow the operator 6 to check the levelness in the X axis direction.

[0022] The calculation unit 105 receives the signals acquired by each sensor, and calculates the left and right distribution distances W from the reference center 1 based on the deviation distance, the first distance, and the second distance. L , W R In practice, the calculation unit 105 calculates the distribution distance W L , W R is calculated by the equations (1) and (2) described later and displayed on the display unit 106. The calculation unit 105 can be a microcomputer or the like having signal input / output ports, calculation functions, and the like.

[0023] The above is the basic configuration of the distribution rangefinder 100, and it can be practical even with just this. Furthermore, since the distribution rangefinder 100 of this basic example is equipped with a communication unit 108, it is also possible to wirelessly transmit measurement results to a mobile terminal 111 such as a notebook PC, tablet, or smartphone. In this case, the reference center sensor 101, the first distance sensor 102, the second distance sensor 103, and the attitude detection unit 104 are arranged on the same plane by being placed on a flat base plate 107. This improves the measurement accuracy of the reference center sensor 101, the first distance sensor 102, the second distance sensor 103, and the attitude detection unit 104.

[0024] FIG. 5 is a functional block diagram showing the system configuration of the distribution rangefinder 100 shown in FIGS. 5, the distribution rangefinder 100 includes a calculation unit 105 configured with a microcomputer or the like, and a power supply 109. The power supply 109 supplies power to the calculation unit 105, each sensor, display unit 106, and communication unit 108. The microcomputer or the like that constitutes the calculation unit 105 may be of one-chip type, and executes a program stored in a non-volatile memory to realize the calculation function. The calculation unit 105 aggregates and processes the data acquired by the reference center sensor 101, the first distance sensor 102, and the second distance sensor 103. The calculation unit 105 displays the processed data as a measurement result on the display unit 106, and also sends the same data to the communication unit 108. The wirelessly transmitted data is received and recorded by the mobile terminal 111 on the recording equipment side, and the data may also be used to automate or semi-automate the creation of an inspection report, which will be described later. The mobile terminal 111 calculates the sorting distance W L , W R By receiving this data, the progress of the inspection work can be displayed for remote monitoring, and it is also convenient in terms of data management. For example, the communication unit 108 has a communication function using Wi-Fi (registered trademark) or Bluetooth (registered trademark), and simply sending the measured data from the sorting distance meter 100 to a mobile terminal 111 such as a notebook PC via such an interface saves the worker the trouble of writing the data by hand on paper. More specifically, when used as a measuring jig for escalators, the sorting distance meter 100 may include the results measured by the measuring jig in an inspection report in a predetermined format. In this way, the received sorting distance W L , W R The data is automatically entered into the designated fields, and an inspection report to be submitted to the quality assurance department, etc. is instantly created. Note that the term "inspection report" is used for convenience of explanation, and also includes the corresponding electronic data.

[0025] FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining measurements by the distributing rangefinder 100 shown in FIGS. As shown in FIG. 5, the calculation unit 105 calculates the deviation distance X , which is the distance between the device center and the reference center 1 acquired by the reference center sensor 101. C and the first distance X detected by the first distance sensor 102L on the left side. L and the first distance X detected by the first distance sensor 102R on the right side. Rand the second distance X detected by the second distance sensor 103. R2 Here, the distribution distance W from the reference center 1 is obtained. L , W R There are four conditions that must be met to measure

[0026] Condition 1: The reference core 1 is in the detection area 20 of the reference core sensor 101 for a predetermined period of time or more. Condition 2: All of the laser beams emitted from the first distance sensor 102L, the first distance sensor 102R, and the second distance sensor 103 hit the surface 5 to be measured. Condition 3: First distance X detected by first distance sensor 102R R and the second distance X detected by the second distance sensor 103. R2 The difference in absolute value is less than a predetermined value. Condition 4: The measurement value of the posture detection unit 104 is equal to or less than a predetermined value.

[0027] Condition 1 is for confirming that the reference core 1 is reliably within the detection area 20 of the reference core sensor 101 in order to detect the position of the lowest point (center) of the swinging reference core. Condition 2 is for confirming that the left and right first distance sensors 102L and 102R and the second distance sensor 103 are in contact with the surface 5 to be measured. Condition 3 verifies the rotation in the Yaw direction as shown in Fig. 7, and is intended to confirm whether the left and right first distance sensors 102L, 102R and the second distance sensor 103 are parallel to the opposing measurement target surface 5. Specifically, it is calculated as in the following formula (1).

[0028] |X R2 -X R |<α …(1)

[0029] where α is the allowable X R and X R2 This is the difference in absolute values ​​of the two, which is defined as the following equation (2):

[0030] α=C×tanθ …(2)

[0031] Here, C is the distance between the laser beam 21R and the laser beam 22, and θ is the tilt angle of the distribution rangefinder 100 in the Yaw direction. Condition 4 is for checking whether the distribution rangefinder 100 is tilted in the roll direction or pitch direction by more than a predetermined angle. If all of the above conditions 1-4 are met, the distribution distance W L , W R The distance W from the reference center 1 can be measured. L , W R are calculated as the following formulas (3) and (4) for the left and right sides, respectively. B is the distance between the left and right first distance sensors 102L and 102R and is therefore known.

[0032] Left side distribution distance: W L =X L +X B / 2+X C …(3) Right side distribution distance: W R =X R +X B / 2-X C …(4)

[0033] In this way, the dividing distance meter 100 divides the dividing distance W from the reference center 1 to the measurement target surfaces 5 facing in both directions. L , W R In order to measure the distance X, a reference center sensor 101 and a pair of first distance sensors 102L and 102R are used. The reference center sensor 101 has a detection area 20 that captures the reference center 1, and measures the deviation distance X of the reference center 1 from the center line of the detection area 20. C On the other hand, the pair of first distance sensors 102L and 102R measure and output a first distance X as the actual measured distance from the center line of the detection area to the measurement target surface 5. L , X R The sorting rangefinder 100 detects and outputs the first distance X thus obtained. L , XR The deviation distance X C By correcting with, the distribution distance W L , W R Ask for.

[0034] [Distribution distance measurement procedure] Next, a series of steps in a measurement method using the distribution rangefinder 100 will be described. FIG. 8 shows the distribution distance W L , W R 10 is a flowchart for measuring the temperature. First, as shown in FIG. 2, an operator 6 or the like holds the sorting rangefinder 100 and places the reference core 1 in the detection area 20 of the reference core sensor 101 of the sorting rangefinder 100 (step S1). Next, the calculation unit 105 checks whether the reference core 1 is within the detection area 20 for a predetermined time or longer (the above-mentioned condition 1) (step S2). As a result, if confirmation cannot be made (No in step S2), the process returns to step S1.

[0035] On the other hand, if confirmation is obtained (Yes in step S2), the process proceeds to the next step, where the laser beams 21L and 21R from the first distance sensors 102L and 102R and the laser beam 22 from the second distance sensor 103 are directed toward the measurement target surface 5 (step S3). The calculation unit 105 confirms that the laser beams 21L, 21R, and 22 emitted from the left first distance sensor 102L, the right first distance sensor 102R, and the second distance sensor 103 are all directed toward the measurement target surface 5 (condition 2 described above) (step S4). If the laser beams 21L, 21R, and 22 are not directed toward the measurement target surface 5, it is assumed that they are directed toward a location much farther away than the measurement target surface 5. In this case, a measurement value cannot be acquired, or even if it is acquired, the value will be very large. By determining this, the calculation unit 105 can confirm whether the laser beams 21L, 21R, and 22 are directed toward the measurement target surface 5. As a result, if confirmation cannot be made (No in step S4), the process returns to step S3.

[0036] On the other hand, if the confirmation is made (Yes in step S4), the worker 6 or the like points the first distance sensor 102 parallel to the measurement target surface 5 (step S5). Then, X detected by the first distance sensor 102R on the right side R and X detected by the second distance sensor 103. R2 The calculation unit 105 confirms that the difference in absolute value between the first distance X R and the second distance X R2 When the difference between the horizontal and vertical axes is within a predetermined range, it is confirmed that the rotation on the horizontal plane is within a predetermined range as the attitude of the own device. As a result, if confirmation cannot be made (No in step S6), the process returns to step S5.

[0037] On the other hand, if the confirmation is made (Yes in step S6), the worker 6 or the like moves the distribution distance meter 100 in the roll and pitch directions closer to horizontal (step S7). Then, the calculation unit 105 confirms that the measurement value of the orientation detection unit 104 is equal to or less than a predetermined value (the above-mentioned condition 4) (step S8). That is, the calculation unit 105 confirms that the tilt with respect to the horizontal plane is within a predetermined range. If the above conditions 1-4 are met, the appropriate distribution distance W L , W R This means that the conditions are now in place to measure the above. However, if confirmation cannot be made (No in step S8), the process returns to step S7.

[0038] On the other hand, if the confirmation is made (Yes in step S8), the reference center sensor 101 detects the deviation distance X of the reference center 1 from the center line of the detection area 20. C and the first distance X is obtained from the left and right first distance sensors 102L and 102R as the actual measured distance from the first distance sensors 102L and 102R to the measurement target surface 5. L , X R is acquired (step S9). Next, the first distance X L , X R The deviation distance XC By correcting with W L , W R is calculated by the calculation unit 105 (step S10). Next, the calculated distribution distance W L , W R is displayed on the display unit 106 (step S11). L , W R In addition to the above, the overall width W or any other information may be displayed. Thereafter, the calculation unit 105 transmits the measurement result to the mobile terminal 111 via the communication unit 108 (step S12). After the mobile terminal 111 receives the data (step S13), the mobile terminal 111 records (saves) the data (step S14). The above is a series of steps in the measurement method using the distribution rangefinder 100.

[0039] The measurement method using the sorting distance meter 100 described above makes it possible to easily, stably, accurately, and efficiently measure the distance from the reference core 1 to the measurement target surface 5 in both directions, which contributes to shortening the lead time for sorting distance measurement work. In addition, since it does not rely on visual measurement, there is less variation in measurements made by the operator 6, which also improves the reproducibility of measurements.

[0040] The sorting distance meter 100 can be suitably used as a measuring jig for quality control in the assembly, installation, and maintenance inspection of an escalator (passenger conveyor), which is an example of a mechanical device. Depending on the application, the distribution distance meter 100 has a reference center 1 as the distribution center, with measurement target surfaces 5 facing each other on both sides of the reference center 1. Depending on the difference in the measurement target surfaces 5, the distribution distance meter 100 can measure the distribution distance for at least one of frame distribution, rail distribution, panel support distribution, and skirt guard distribution. The distribution distance meter 100, specialized for such applications, is a quality control measuring jig that effectively improves work efficiency. The distribution distance meter 100, which has been refined as a measuring jig, is operated as follows during escalator installation or during periodic inspections after installation. For example, an escalator maintenance worker holds the distribution distance meter 100 horizontally, stops at measurement points to measure, and then moves forward after the measurement, walking intermittently. The maintenance worker only needs to perform this intermittent walking once on the escalator, and an inspection report (equivalent electronic data) to be submitted to the quality assurance department is created on the mobile terminal 111.

[0041] FIG. 9(a) is a side view showing the location where a maintenance worker of an escalator performs measurements. The left side of Figure 9(a) is the front side of the escalator, and the right side is the rear side of the escalator. The 10 points between these two points have a distribution distance W L , W R This indicates that measurements will be taken. FIG. 9(b) is a cross-sectional view taken along the line AA in FIG. 9(a). Figure 9(b) shows the distribution distance W L , W R The measurement points are shown, and the distribution distance W L , W R This indicates that the following is measured. 9(a) and 9(b) can be attached to, for example, a work instruction manual for an escalator maintenance worker, thereby clarifying the details of the maintenance and inspection work.

[0042] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an examination report created by the mobile terminal 111. As shown in FIG. Figure 10 shows the distribution distance W L , W RThis is a diagram summarizing the measurement results. The top of the figure is a title column H1, in which the details of the maintenance work are written in a specified format. The bottom of the figure is a measurement result display column H2, in which the measurement results and pass / fail judgment are written. Here, 10 measurement locations are written as No. 1 to 10, and the respective distribution distances W L , W R , and the overall width W. Furthermore, it is noted that Nos. 1 to 4 and 7 to 10 passed (◯), but Nos. 5 and 6 failed (×). The right part of the figure is a measurement location display field H3, which indicates at which locations measurements were taken No. 1 to No. 10. In this case, the same diagram as in FIG.

[0043] [Variation 1] In the basic example described above, the configuration is based on the assumption that the distributing rangefinder 100 will be held and used by an operator 6, as shown in FIG. 2. If more accurate measurements are required, the distributing rangefinder 100 can be supported by a support leg 200, such as a camera tripod, as shown in FIG. 11. This eliminates the effects of camera shake, enabling more accurate measurements. Furthermore, a support leg 200 equipped with a pan head 201 is more preferable for adjusting the tilt of the distributing rangefinder 100. Furthermore, the floor contact portion of the support leg 200 may be configured with wheels, such as casters, to facilitate translation of the support leg 200 across the floor.

[0044] [Variation 2] In the basic example described above, the configuration is based on the premise that the worker 6 will hold and use the sorting rangefinder 100 as shown in Figure 2, but depending on the worker 6, it may be difficult to measure with high accuracy due to the influence of hand shake. To solve this problem, a configuration in which the sorting rangefinder 100 is supported by a gimbal stabilizer 300, as shown in Figure 12, is effective. The gimbal stabilizer 300 is a device that automatically controls the attitude of the connected sorting rangefinder 100 using an incorporated motor 301 and attitude sensor 302 to keep the tilt in the roll and pitch directions of the connected sorting rangefinder 100 always horizontal.

[0045] [supplement] When measuring the distribution distance using a plumb bob or similar as a reference center, it is not easy for the worker 6 to complete the tasks of holding the measuring device such as a convex bob 3 by hand and keeping it horizontal, aligning the measurement reference with the reference center 1, and reading the scale of the measuring device with high accuracy in a short time. Furthermore, in the advanced task of measuring the distribution distance, the worker 6 is forced to face the following difficulties. This task involves the wasted time and stress of waiting for the plumb bob to stop swinging, the burden of keeping an eye on the two distance measurements to the measurement target surface on both sides using the stationary string as a reference, the unnatural working posture required to achieve this, and the effort required to accurately record and manage the obtained measurement data. Therefore, for the worker 6, repeating these tasks continuously is hard work that requires concentration.

[0046] Furthermore, it is thought that the tendency for variations in performance among workers 6, the difficulty of securing skilled workers, and the worsening of various factors such as declining eyesight and concentration due to aging even among skilled workers will be inevitable in the future. In contrast, conventional plumb bob position detection devices only solve the problem of detecting the plumb bob position, but are not able to completely reduce the above-mentioned heavy labor. The present distribution distance meter 100 can solve these problems.

[0047] <Explanation of how to measure the distribution distance> The above-described processing performed by the allocating rangefinder 100 is realized by the cooperation of software and hardware resources. That is, a processor such as a microcomputer provided in the allocating rangefinder 100 executes software that realizes each of the above-described functions, thereby realizing each of these functions.

[0048] Therefore, the processing performed by the sorting rangefinder 100 is to have the processor execute the software recorded in the memory, and to calculate the deviation distance X, which is the distance that the reference core 1 deviates from the center line set in the detection area 20, which is the area for detecting the reference core 1 arranged in the vertical direction. C The distance to the measurement target surface 5 located on the left and right of the device is determined as the first distance X L , X RIn order to detect the rotation on the horizontal plane as the attitude of the device itself, a second distance X is measured as the distance to the measurement target surface 5. R2 The tilt relative to the horizontal plane is measured as the attitude of the device, and the deviation distance X C , the first distance X L , X R and the second distance X R2 This method can also be regarded as a method for measuring a distribution distance, which calculates a distribution distance to the measurement target surface 5 based on the above.

[0049] In the above example, the second distance sensor 103, together with the first distance sensor 102R, measures the distance to the measurement target surface 5 and checks the rotation around the Z axis, i.e., the tilt in the Yaw direction. However, this is not limiting. For example, the second distance sensor 103 may be provided adjacent to the first distance sensor 102L and irradiate a laser beam in the same direction as the first distance sensor 102L to measure the distance to the measurement target surface 5 and check the tilt in the Yaw direction. Alternatively, the second distance sensor 103 may be provided adjacent to both the first distance sensor 102R and the first distance sensor 102L. In this case, the second distance sensor 103 irradiates a laser beam in the same direction as the first distance sensor 102R and the first distance sensor 102L to measure the distance to the measurement target surface 5 and check the tilt in the Yaw direction.

[0050] In the above example, a laser distance sensor is used as the sensor for measuring distance, but this is not limiting. For example, an ultrasonic sensor that measures distance using ultrasonic waves can also be used. However, from the viewpoint of convenience of measurement, a non-contact distance sensor is preferable.

[0051] Furthermore, in the above example, the calculation unit 105 is provided in the sorting distance meter 100, and calculates the sorting distance W L , W R The measurement results of each sensor are sent to the mobile terminal 111, and the mobile terminal 111 calculates the distribution distance W L , W R That is, the function of the calculation unit 105 may be processed on the mobile terminal 111 side.

[0052] In the above example, the display unit 106 displays the measurement results, but the displayed content is not limited to this. For example, it is possible to display information about the attitude of the device itself. It is also possible to display information about the location where the measurement is performed, as shown in FIG. 9. Furthermore, if the measurement range is wide, it is also possible to obtain location information from a device such as a GPS (Global Positioning System) and display the measurement location.

[0053] Furthermore, while the mobile terminal 111 described above is portable, it is not limited to being portable as long as it can communicate with the sorting distance meter 100. For example, it may be a desktop PC, a server computer, or the like. In this regard, if the mobile terminal 111 is regarded as a counting device that counts the sorting distances, the sorting distance meter 100 and the counting device can be considered to constitute a sorting distance measurement system.

[0054] Although the present embodiment has been described above, the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the scope of the above embodiment. It is clear from the claims that various modifications and improvements to the above embodiment are also included in the technical scope of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0055] 1...reference center (plumb bob), 2...plumb bob, 3...convex, 4...structure, 5...surface to be measured, 6...worker, 7...plumb bob mounting surface, 20...detection area, 21L, 21R, 22...laser light, 100...distributing rangefinder, 101...reference center sensor, 102, 102L, 102R...first distance sensor, 103...second distance sensor, 104...posture detection unit, 105...calculation unit, 106...display unit, 107...base plate, 108...communication unit, 109...power supply, 110...handle, 111...portable terminal, 200...support leg, 201...platform head, 300...gimbal stabilizer, 301...motor, 302...posture sensor

Claims

1. A distance measuring device for measuring distances to measurement target surfaces located on the left and right sides of the device based on a reference center arranged in the vertical direction, a reference center sensor that measures a deviation distance, which is a distance that the reference center deviates from a center line provided in a detection area that is an area that detects the reference center; a pair of first distance sensors that measure first distances as distances to the measurement target surfaces located on the left and right; a second distance sensor that measures a second distance as a distance to the measurement target surface in order to detect rotation in a horizontal plane as an attitude of the device itself; an attitude detection unit that detects an inclination of the device relative to a horizontal plane as the attitude of the device itself; A rangefinder equipped with a rangefinder.

2. The sorting rangefinder according to claim 1 , further comprising a calculation unit that calculates the sorting distance based on the deviation distance, the first distance, and the second distance.

3. The distributing rangefinder according to claim 2 , wherein the calculation unit detects rotation in a horizontal plane as the attitude of the device itself from the difference between the first distance and the second distance.

4. The sorting distance meter according to claim 3, wherein the calculation unit determines the sorting distance by determining that the rotation in a horizontal plane is within a predetermined range as the attitude of the device when the difference between the first distance and the second distance is within a predetermined range.

5. The sorting rangefinder according to claim 2 , wherein the calculation unit calculates the sorting distance by correcting the first distance with the deviation distance.

6. 3. The sorting rangefinder according to claim 2, wherein the calculation unit calculates the sorting distance when the inclination with respect to the horizontal plane is within a predetermined range.

7. 2. The distributing rangefinder according to claim 1, wherein the reference center sensor, the first distance sensor, the second distance sensor, and the attitude detection unit are disposed on a flat plate so as to be arranged on the same plane.

8. The distributing rangefinder according to claim 7 , wherein the second distance sensor measures the distance to the measurement target surface in the same direction as the first distance sensor.

9. 2. The distribution rangefinder according to claim 1, wherein the first distance sensor and the second distance sensor are laser distance sensors.

10. 10. The distributing rangefinder according to claim 9, wherein the first distance sensor and the second distance sensor each irradiate the measurement target surface with a parallel laser beam.

11. 2. The rangefinder according to claim 1, further comprising a display unit for displaying the measurement results.

12. 2. The distributing rangefinder according to claim 1, wherein the device itself is mounted on a support leg or a gimbal stabilizer.

13. The processor executes the software stored in the memory. measuring a deviation distance, which is a distance by which the reference center deviates from a center line provided in a detection area, which is an area for detecting a reference center disposed in a vertical direction; measuring a first distance as a distance to a measurement target surface located on the left and right of the own device; measuring a second distance as a distance to the measurement target surface in order to detect rotation in a horizontal plane as the orientation of the own device; The tilt of the device relative to the horizontal plane is detected as the device's attitude. calculating a distributed distance to the measurement target surface based on the deviation distance, the first distance, and the second distance; Method for measuring distribution distance.

14. a distance measuring device for measuring distances to measurement target surfaces located on the left and right sides of the device based on a reference center arranged in the vertical direction; a counting device that counts the allocated distances; and The said distribution distance meter is a reference center sensor that measures a deviation distance, which is a distance that the reference center deviates from a center line provided in a detection area that is an area that detects the reference center; a pair of first distance sensors that measure first distances as distances to the measurement target surfaces located on the left and right; a second distance sensor that measures a second distance as a distance to the measurement target surface in order to detect rotation in a horizontal plane as an attitude of the device itself; an attitude detection unit that detects an inclination of the device relative to a horizontal plane as the attitude of the device itself; A distribution distance measurement system equipped with:

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