Automatic door system

Abstract

To provide an automatic door device capable of suppressing an operation which a user does not intend.SOLUTION: An automatic door device 100 according to a specific aspect includes: a contact type switch group 1 including a contact type opening switch 11 and a contact type closing switch 12 for opening and closing a door, and detecting an action of a user as a reaction amount; a non-contact switch group 2 including a non-contact opening switch 21 and a non-contact closing switch 22 for opening and closing the door, and detecting the action of the user as a reaction amount; and an abnormality detection part 3 for detecting abnormality of each switch 11, 12, and 21, 22 of the contact type switch group 1 and the non-contact type switch group 2. When the abnormality detection part 3 detects an abnormality in any switch of one switch group of the contact type switch group 1 and the non-contact type switch group 2, opening and closing of the door by the one switch group is regulated.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an automatic door system, an automatic door switch, a control method for an automatic door switch, and a control program for an automatic door switch. [Background technology]

[0002] Automatic door systems are known that use non-contact switches to control the opening and closing operations of an opening / closing body. For example, Patent Document 1 describes a roller blind device that controls the opening and closing operations of a screen curtain in accordance with the detection state of a non-contact switch means (area sensor). This device includes an opening / closing means that opens and closes the opening, an area sensor that detects the approach of a finger in a non-contact manner, and an opening / closing control means that controls the opening and closing operations of the opening / closing means in accordance with the detection state of the area sensor. In this device, two or more area sensors are arranged adjacent to each other, and each sensor enters one of several detection states when a finger is held over one or both of the sensors. The control means controls the opening and closing operations in accordance with the several detection states.

[0003] Patent Document 2 describes an automatic door activation device that opens a door via a drive means when an activation switch attached to the door is turned on. This device prohibits the drive means from opening the door until a predetermined time has passed since the output signal based on the activation switch being turned on, and then opens the door via the drive means in response to the output signal based on the activation switch being turned on within the valid time after the predetermined time has passed.

[0004] Patent Document 3 describes an automatic door device for a toilet stall door that opens and closes based on signals from inside and outside operating units. This device is equipped with a drive means that opens and closes the door based on open / close signals from operating units located outside and inside the toilet stall, and an auxiliary light sensor located at the entrance to the toilet stall. When the door is open and is to be closed based on a close signal from the inside operating unit, this device reverses and fully opens the door if it receives a signal from the auxiliary light sensor during the closing operation. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-095940 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-290760 [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-163408 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] There are automatic door systems equipped with contact switches operated by the user to open and close the door, and non-contact switches. Non-contact switches have poor operational feel, and if the door does not operate as the user intended, it is difficult to determine whether the operation was improper or the switch is faulty. Even in such cases, it is undesirable for the automatic door system to perform an operation not intended by the user. Patent Documents 1 to 3 do not provide sufficient disclosure from this perspective.

[0007] The present invention has been made in consideration of these problems, and one of its objects is to provide technology for an automatic door system that can prevent unintended operations by the user. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] To solve the above problems, one aspect of the present invention provides an automatic door system that includes a contact switch group that includes contact-type open and close switches for opening and closing the door and detects user actions as a reaction amount, a non-contact switch group that includes non-contact open and close switches for opening and closing the door and detects user actions as a reaction amount, and an abnormality detection unit that detects abnormalities in each of the contact switch group and the non-contact switch group. When the abnormality detection unit detects an abnormality in either the contact switch group or the non-contact switch group, it restricts the opening and closing of the door using that switch group.

[0009] Any combination of the above, or mutual substitution of the components or expressions of the present invention among methods, devices, programs, temporary or non-temporary storage media on which programs are recorded, systems, etc., are also valid aspects of the present invention. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a technology for an automatic door system that can suppress operations that are not intended by the user. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram schematically illustrating an automatic door system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is a block diagram showing an automatic door system according to a first embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 3] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an example of a change in the reaction amount of a non-contact switch. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically illustrating a non-contact switch. [Figure 5] 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the automatic door system of the first embodiment. [Figure 6] 2 is a flowchart showing a method for controlling the automatic door switch of FIG. 1. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram schematically illustrating an automatic door system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing an automatic door system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically illustrating a non-contact switch. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of information stored in a non-contact switch. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of relationship information of a non-contact switch. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram schematically illustrating a state in which an abnormal non-contact switch is operated. [Figure 13]FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of related information when an abnormal non-contact switch is operated. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of transition information when an abnormal non-contact switch is operated. [Figure 15] 8 is a flowchart showing the automatic door switch control method of FIG. 7. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a diagram schematically illustrating an automatic door system according to a third embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing an automatic door system according to a third embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically showing a first example of a change in the reaction amount of a non-contact switch. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a diagram schematically showing a second example of a change in the reaction amount of the non-contact switch. [Figure 20] FIG. 10 is a diagram schematically showing a third example of a change in the reaction amount of the non-contact switch. [Figure 21] 17 is a flowchart showing the automatic door switch control method of FIG. 16. [Figure 22] FIG. 10 is a diagram schematically illustrating an automatic door system according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 23] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing an automatic door system according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 24] 23 is a flowchart showing the checking operation of the automatic door system of FIG. 22. [Figure 25] 10 is a timing chart showing an example of a confirmation operation. [Figure 26] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a confirmation operation. [Figure 27] 10 is a timing chart showing a second example of the checking operation. [Figure 28] 23 is a diagram showing a method of controlling the automatic door switch of FIG. 22. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] Among the embodiments disclosed in this specification, those that are comprised of multiple objects may be integrated, and conversely, those that are comprised of a single object may be separated into multiple objects. Regardless of whether they are integrated, it is sufficient that they are configured to achieve the object of the invention.

[0013] Among the embodiments disclosed in this specification, those in which multiple functions are provided in a distributed manner may have some or all of the multiple functions integrated together, and conversely, those in which multiple functions are provided in a distributed manner may have some or all of the multiple functions integrated together. Regardless of whether the functions are integrated or distributed, it is sufficient that the configuration can achieve the object of the invention.

[0014] Furthermore, separate components that share something in common are distinguished by prefixing their names with "first," "second," etc., and these are omitted when referring to them collectively. Furthermore, terms including ordinal numbers such as "first" and "second" are used to describe various components, but these terms are used only to distinguish one component from another, and do not limit the components.

[0015] The present invention will be described below based on preferred embodiments with reference to the drawings. In the embodiments and modifications, identical or equivalent components and members are designated by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations will be omitted where appropriate. The dimensions of the members in the drawings are enlarged or reduced as appropriate for ease of understanding. Some members that are not important for explaining the embodiments will be omitted from the drawings.

[0016] [First embodiment] An automatic door system 100 according to a first embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings. As an example, the automatic door system 100 is a device that opens and closes doors to open and close entrances to walls or other structures that separate spaces in various facilities such as stations, hotels, department stores, hospitals, and elderly care facilities. FIG. 1 is a diagram that schematically illustrates the automatic door system 100 of this embodiment. This diagram shows a room 94 to which the automatic door system 100 is applied, viewed from the outside. The room 94 can be used as a private room in a multi-purpose restroom.

[0017] Figure 2 is a block diagram that shows the automatic door system 100 according to the present invention. Each block shown in Figure 2 and the block diagrams described below can be realized in hardware terms using computer processors, CPUs, memory and other elements, electronic circuits, and mechanical devices, and in software terms using computer programs, etc. However, the functional blocks shown here are realized by the cooperation of these elements. Therefore, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that these functional blocks can be realized in various ways by combining hardware and software.

[0018] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, an automatic door system 100 includes an automatic door switch 10 and a door drive device 98 that drives a door 90 to open and close. The automatic door switch 10 detects a user's action and transmits an instruction signal S determined based on the detection result to the door drive device 98. The instruction signal S includes control content for the door drive device 98. The door drive device 98 includes a door control unit 91 and a door engine 92. The door control unit 91 controls the door engine 92 to open and close the door 90 based on the instruction signal S from the automatic door switch 10. There are no limitations on the transmission path 96 that transmits the instruction signal S from the automatic door switch 10, but the transmission path 96 in this example includes an internal device bus. The door engine 92 rotates a drive motor (not shown) to open and close the door 90 based on the control of the door control unit 91.

[0019] The automatic door switch 10 will now be described. The automatic door switch 10 has a contact switch group 1, a non-contact switch group 2, an abnormality detection unit 3, a switch control unit 6, and an alarm unit 7. The contact switch group 1 and the non-contact switch group 2 have an outer switch unit provided on the outside of the room 94 and an inner switch unit provided on the inside of the room 94. Hereinafter, when distinguishing between inside and outside, the outer switch will be marked with the letter "-A" and the inner switch will be marked with the letter "-B", and when referring to them collectively, no letter will be added.

[0020] The switches in the contact switch group 1 are collectively referred to simply as "contact switches." The contact switch group 1 includes a contact-type open switch 11 and close switch 12 for opening and closing the door 90. Hereinafter, the open switch 11 and close switch 12 may be simply referred to as switch 11 and switch 12. The open switch 11 and close switch 12 detect the user's action as a reaction amount. The contact switch in this embodiment is a push button switch, and its reaction amount is an electrical signal that changes between ON and OFF depending on the pressure applied by the user. The reaction amount of the contact switch is OFF when the push button is not pressed and ON when pressed. The contact switch group 1 includes an open switch 11-A and a close switch 12-A located outside the room 94, and an open switch 11-B and a close switch 12-B located inside the room 94.

[0021] The non-contact switch group 2 includes a non-contact open switch 21 and a non-contact close switch 22 for opening and closing the door 90. Hereinafter, the open switch 21 and the close switch 22 may be simply referred to as switch 21 and switch 22. The open switch 21 and the close switch 22 detect the user's action as a reaction amount. The non-contact switch group 2 includes an open switch 21-A and a close switch 22-A that are arranged on the outside of the room 94, and an open switch 21-B and a close switch 22-B that are arranged on the inside. When referring to the switches in the non-contact switch group 2 collectively, they are simply referred to as "non-contact switches."

[0022] A non-contact switch is a detector that detects a user's action based on a known detection principle. That is, the non-contact open switch 21 and close switch 22 exemplify multiple detectors 24, 25. Examples of such detection principles include those that use capacitance, ultrasound, microwaves, and light (e.g., infrared rays). The response quantity of a non-contact switch is, for example, a physical quantity generated in response to the distance from a user's finger when the switch approaches, and may be analog information such as a voltage value, or digital information corresponding to the physical quantity. An example in which the response quantity is analog information will be described below.

[0023] Changes in the response amount of a non-contact switch will be described with reference to Figure 3. Figure 3 is a diagram that schematically shows an example of changes in the response amount of a non-contact switch. The horizontal axis of this diagram indicates the elapsed time when a finger approaches, and the vertical axis indicates the response amount g1. The response amount g1 in this diagram indicates the amount of change relative to a reference value. g1 shows an example of the transition of the response amount as it increases beyond a threshold and reaches a stable state.

[0024] The reaction amount g1 not only undergoes monotonous changes but also undergoes various fluctuations. When the reaction amount g1 is near a threshold, chattering may occur, where the reaction amount g1 alternates between an ON state where the reaction amount g1 exceeds the threshold and an OFF state where the reaction amount g1 does not exceed the threshold. Furthermore, the reaction amount g1 may continue to increase, decrease, overshoot, etc. after exceeding the threshold. Therefore, the non-contact switch of this embodiment continuously acquires the change in the reaction amount and determines the ON state when the reaction amount reaches a predetermined stable state.

[0025] The non-contact switch will be described with reference to FIG. 4. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a non-contact switch. This diagram is a schematic diagram showing, from a side view, a state in which a user has approached an open switch 21 with the intention of opening the door. As shown in this diagram, the open switch 21 and the close switch 22 are arranged close to each other within a range that allows the user to operate them without changing their standing position. As a result, when a finger approaches the open switch 21, the finger also approaches the close switch 22. At this time, the open switch 21 and the close switch 22 detect a reaction amount according to the proximity state. Therefore, the threshold is set so that the open switch 21 is ON and the close switch 22 is OFF in this state.

[0026] The appropriate reference values ​​and threshold values ​​for non-contact switches vary depending on the individual switch and also change due to factors such as aging. The reference values ​​and threshold values ​​can be adjusted by calibration during installation or maintenance. This calibration can also be performed automatically each time the device is started.

[0027] 1 and 2, each of the contact switches and non-contact switches is associated with a preset control content related to the operation of the door 90. The open switches 11 and 21 are associated with a control content including a control for opening the door 90, and the close switches 12 and 22 are associated with a control content including a control for closing the door 90. In other words, when a switch is operated, the determination unit 4, which will be described later, determines an instruction signal S including the control content associated with that switch.

[0028] The switch control unit 6 outputs an instruction signal S based on the detection results (amounts of reaction) of the contact switch group 1 and the non-contact switch group 2. The switch control unit 6 includes a determination unit 4, an output unit 5, a memory unit 66, and an input unit 67. The determination unit 4 determines the instruction signal S based on the detection results of the contact open switch 11 and close switch 12, which detect the user's action as an amount of reaction, and the non-contact open switch 21 and close switch 22, which detect the user's action as an amount of reaction. The output unit 5 outputs the instruction signal S determined by the determination unit 4 to the door control unit 91 of the door 90. As described above, the door control unit 91 controls the door 90 based on the instruction signal S from the switch control unit 6.

[0029] The storage unit 66 can store acquired information and intermediate processing information in chronological order. The storage unit 66 can also store a control program P120, which will be described later. The input unit 67 acquires the response amount of each switch in the contact switch group 1. The input unit 67 acquires the response amount of each switch in the non-contact switch group 2.

[0030] (Abnormality detection section) The abnormality detection unit 3 will now be described. The abnormality detection unit 3 detects abnormalities in each switch of the contact switch group 1 and the non-contact switch group 2. In particular, the abnormality detection unit 3 can individually detect abnormalities in each of the switches 11, 12, 21, and 22 of the contact switch group 1 and the non-contact switch group 2. In other words, the abnormality detection unit 3 can detect abnormalities in multiple detection units 24 and 25.

[0031] The abnormality detection unit 3 checks the reaction amounts of the contact switch group 1 and the non-contact switch group 2, and determines that an abnormality has occurred if the result is not within a predetermined range. Furthermore, the abnormality detection unit 3 determines that an abnormality has occurred if it is unable to calibrate the non-contact switch group 2 and adjust the reference value and threshold value to a predetermined state (hereinafter referred to as "adjustment failure").

[0032] When an abnormality is detected in any of the switches in either the contact switch group 1 or the non-contact switch group 2, it is desirable to prevent the door 90 from being operated by any of the switches in that switch group in order to avoid unintended operation. Therefore, in the switch control unit 6 of this embodiment, when the abnormality detection unit 3 detects an abnormality in any of the switches in either the contact switch group 1 or the non-contact switch group 2, the switch control unit 6 restricts the opening and closing of the door 90 by that switch group. For example, when an abnormality is detected in the open switch 21, the close switch 22 does not operate the door 90.

[0033] More specifically, when the abnormality detection unit 3 detects an abnormality in either of the switches in either the contact switch group 1 or the non-contact switch group 2, the automatic door device 100 stops outputting the instruction signal S from the switch control unit 6 based on the detection result of that switch group, or does not perform door control by the door control unit 91 based on the instruction signal S from the switch control unit 6.

[0034] A case will be described in which switches are provided both inside and outside the room 94. From the viewpoint of avoiding unintended operation, if either the inside or outside switch of the same type is determined to be abnormal, it is desirable that the door 90 not be operated by both the inside and outside switches of the same type. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the abnormality detection unit 3 detects an abnormality in either the switch of either the contact switch group 1 or the non-contact switch group 2, the output of the instruction signal S from the switch control unit 6 based on the detection result of that switch group is stopped, regardless of whether the abnormality is in the inside or outside switch, or the door control unit 91 does not perform door control based on the instruction signal S from the switch control unit 6. Stopping the output of the instruction signal S or not performing door control by the door control unit 91 based on the instruction signal S in this way is referred to as invalidating the switch detection result.

[0035] (Notification Department) The notification unit 7 will now be described. As described above, if an abnormality is detected in a switch, and as a result the instruction signal S is not output or control based on the instruction signal S is not performed, and the door 90 does not operate, it is desirable to provide advice to the user. Therefore, this embodiment includes the notification unit 7 that, when it detects a user's operation on a switch in the contact switch group 1 or the non-contact switch group 2, whichever switch in which no abnormality is detected, provides guidance encouraging the user to use a switch in a switch group other than the switch group in which the abnormality is detected. For example, when an abnormality is detected in the open switch 21 in the non-contact switch group 2, and it detects a user's operation on the close switch 22 in which no abnormality is detected, the notification unit 7 can provide a guidance voice urging the user to use a switch in the contact switch group 1.

[0036] The notification unit 7 of this embodiment includes a notification control unit 71 that determines the guidance to be provided to the user depending on the detected state of an abnormality in the switch group, and a voice output unit 72 that outputs a guide voice depending on the control of the notification control unit 71. In the example of Fig. 1, the voice output unit 72 is arranged near the outer switch unit.

[0037] An example of the operation of the automatic door system 100 will be described with reference to FIG. 5. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing operation S110 of the automatic door system 100. For example, operation S110 can be executed when the power is turned on or during operation. When operation S110 starts, the abnormality detection unit 3 adjusts or checks the calibration of the non-contact switches (step S111). Next, the abnormality detection unit 3 determines whether some of the non-contact switches have failed or are showing abnormal values, and whether the calibration adjustment has failed (step S112). If the calibration adjustment is successful (N in step S112), the abnormality detection unit 3 ends operation S110.

[0038] If the calibration adjustment fails (Y in step S112), the switch control unit 6 stops all operations of the non-contact switches, including the normal switches. Specifically, it invalidates the detection results of all the non-contact switches (step S113). Next, the abnormality detection unit 3 acquires the reaction (amount of reaction) of the non-contact switches whose calibration adjustment was successful (step S114).

[0039] Next, the abnormality detection unit 3 determines whether or not there has been a reaction based on a change in the reaction amount of the non-contact switch that has been successfully adjusted (step S115). If there has been no reaction (N in step S115), the process jumps to the beginning of step S114 and repeats steps S114 and S115. If there has been a reaction (Y in step S115), the notification unit 7 notifies the outside that the non-contact switch cannot be used. At this time, a guide voice can be provided to encourage the use of a contact switch (step S116). After executing step S116, the abnormality detection unit 3 ends operation S110. These steps are merely an example, and various modifications are possible.

[0040] The technical concept of this embodiment can be applied to a control method for the automatic door switch 10. Fig. 6 is a flowchart showing the control method S120 for the automatic door switch 10. The control method S120 includes abnormality detection steps S121 and S122 for detecting an abnormality in the multiple non-contact detectors 24, 25, which detect a user's action as a reaction amount and output an instruction signal S, including an instruction to open and close the door 90, to the control unit of the door 90 based on the detection result, and steps S123, S124, and S125 for stopping the output of the instruction signal S from all of the multiple detectors 24, 25 when an abnormality is detected in any one of the multiple detectors 24, 25.

[0041] According to the control method S120, it is possible to prevent an operation that is not intended by the user.

[0042] 6 can be executed by a computer as a control program P120 for the automatic door switch 10. That is, the control program P120 for the automatic door switch 10 causes the computer to execute the following steps: abnormality detection steps S121 and S122 for detecting abnormalities in the multiple non-contact detectors 24, 25, which detect a user's action as a reaction amount and output an instruction signal S, including an instruction to open and close the door 90, to a control unit of the door 90 based on the detection result; and steps S123, S124, and S125 for stopping the output of instruction signals S from all of the multiple detectors 24, 25 when an abnormality is detected in any one of the multiple detectors 24, 25.

[0043] These functions of the program P120 may be installed in the storage (e.g., memory unit 66) of the automatic door switch 10 as an application program that implements multiple modules corresponding to the functional blocks of the automatic door switch 10. The program P120 may be read into the main memory of a processor (e.g., CPU) of a computer incorporated in the automatic door switch 10 and executed.

[0044] According to the program P120, it is possible to suppress actions that are not intended by the user.

[0045] The features of the automatic door system 100 of this embodiment configured as described above will be described below. The automatic door system 100 comprises a contact switch group 1 including a contact-type open switch 11 and a contact-type close switch 12 for opening and closing the door 90 and detecting a user's action as a reaction amount, a non-contact switch group 2 including a non-contact open switch 21 and a contact-type close switch 22 for opening and closing the door 90 and detecting a user's action as a reaction amount, and an abnormality detection unit 3 for detecting abnormalities in each of the switches 11, 12, 21, and 22 in the contact switch group 1 and the non-contact switch group 2. When the abnormality detection unit 3 detects an abnormality in either the contact switch group 1 or the non-contact switch group 2, the automatic door system 100 restricts the opening or closing of the door 90 using that switch group.

[0046] With this configuration, even if a malfunctioning open / close switch is used, it is possible to avoid an operation unintended by the user.

[0047] The technical concept of this embodiment may be specified as follows: An automatic door system 100 includes a contact switch group 1 including a contact-type open switch 11 and a contact-type close switch 12 for opening and closing a door 90 and detecting a user's action as a reaction amount, a non-contact switch group 2 including a contact-type open switch 21 and a contact-type close switch 22 for opening and closing the door 90 and detecting a user's action as a reaction amount, a switch control unit 6 that outputs an instruction signal S including an instruction to open and close the door 90 based on the detection results of the contact switch group 1 and the non-contact switch group 2, a door 90 control unit that controls the door 90 based on the instruction signal S from the switch control unit 6, and an abnormality detection unit 3 that detects an abnormality in each switch of the contact switch group 1 and the non-contact switch group 2. When the abnormality detection unit 3 detects an abnormality in either the contact switch group 1 or the non-contact switch group 2, it stops output of the instruction signal S from the switch control unit 6 based on the detection result of that switch group, or does not perform door control by the door 90 control unit based on the instruction signal S from the switch control unit 6.

[0048] With this configuration, even if a malfunctioning open / close switch is used, it is possible to avoid an operation unintended by the user.

[0049] In the automatic door system 100, the contact switch group 1 and the non-contact switch group 2 are provided respectively inside and outside the room 94 in which the door 90 is installed. When the abnormality detection unit 3 detects an abnormality in either the inside or outside contact switch group or the inside or outside non-contact switch group 2, it stops outputting the instruction signal S from the switch control unit 6 based on the detection result of the switch group, regardless of whether the abnormality is in the inside or outside switch, or does not perform door control by the door control unit based on the instruction signal S from the switch control unit 6. In this case, the user can use any available switch. The switch that the abnormality detection unit 3 detects an abnormality in may be a contact switch or a non-contact switch.

[0050] The automatic door system 100 further includes a notification unit 7 that, when a user action is detected on a switch in one of the switch groups that has not detected an abnormality, provides guidance encouraging the user to use a switch in the other switch group. In this case, the user can follow the guidance to open or close the door.

[0051] The technical concept of this embodiment can also be identified by the following description: Automatic door switch 10 comprises multiple non-contact detectors 24, 25 that detect a user's action as a reaction amount, a determination unit 4 that determines an instruction signal S based on the detection results of the multiple detectors 24, 25, an output unit 5 that outputs the instruction signal S determined by determination unit 4 to a control unit of door 90, and an abnormality detection unit 3 that detects abnormalities in the multiple detectors 24, 25. When abnormality detection unit 3 detects an abnormality in any one of the multiple detectors, automatic door switch 10 stops outputting instruction signals S based on all of the multiple detectors 24, 25.

[0052] According to this configuration, even if a non-contact switch having a malfunction is used, it is possible to avoid an operation unintended by the user.

[0053] The automatic door switch 10 further includes a notification unit 7 that, when a user's action is detected by one of the multiple detection units 24, 25 that has not detected an abnormality, provides guidance encouraging the use of means other than the multiple detection units 24, 25. In this case, the user can open or close the door in accordance with the guidance.

[0054] The above is the description of the first embodiment.

[0055] Second to fourth embodiments of the present invention will be described below. In the drawings and descriptions of the second to fourth embodiments, the same or equivalent components and members as those in the first embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals.

[0056] [Second embodiment] The following describes an automatic door system 200 according to a second embodiment of the present invention. Explanations that overlap with the first embodiment will be omitted where appropriate, and differences from the first embodiment will be explained in detail. The explanation of the first embodiment applies to this embodiment to the extent that no contradictions arise, and in the event of any contradictions, the explanation of this embodiment takes precedence.

[0057] First, we will explain the outline of the automatic door system 200 of this embodiment. In an automatic door system with multiple non-contact switches installed closely together, if one of the switches malfunctions, the door corresponding to the malfunctioning switch (hereinafter referred to as the "faulty switch") cannot operate, even if the other switches (hereinafter referred to as the "normal switches") are normal. Note that a malfunctioning switch includes not only a malfunctioning switch, but also a switch that cannot transmit a normal signal to the switch control unit for some reason.

[0058] Therefore, in the automatic door system 200 of this embodiment, when one of the multiple switches is ON, the signal strength (response amount) of the other switches is stored in advance. For example, the signal strength (response amount) of the switch can be obtained when the power is turned on or when the surrounding environment continues to change significantly. When there is no output from the faulty switch, the operation state of the faulty switch is estimated from the stored signal strength and the signal strength of the normal switches, and the door operation corresponding to the faulty switch is realized based on the estimation result. This makes it possible to avoid a situation where operation becomes impossible even if one of the non-contact switches has an abnormality. The automatic door system 200 will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[0059] Please refer to Figures 7 and 8. Figure 7 is a diagram that shows a schematic diagram of an automatic door system 200. Figure 8 is a block diagram that shows a schematic diagram of the automatic door system 200 according to the present invention. As shown in Figures 7 and 8, the automatic door system 200 comprises an automatic door switch 10 and a door drive device 98 that drives the door 90 to open and close. The automatic door switch 10 detects the user's actions and transmits an instruction signal S determined based on the detection result to the door drive device 98. The instruction signal S includes control details for the door drive device 98.

[0060] The automatic door switch 10 will now be described. The automatic door switch 10 includes multiple contact switches 11, 13, and 12, multiple non-contact switches 21, 23, and 22, a switch control unit 6, and an alarm unit 7. The switches 11, 13, and 12 and the switches 21, 23, and 22 are located close to one another and each detects a user's action as a reaction amount. The switches 11 and 21 are open switches that accept a user's operation to open the door 90. The switches 13 and 23 are stop switches that accept a user's operation to stop the door 90. The switches 12 and 22 are close switches that accept a user's operation to close the door 90. The switches 21, 23, and 22 exemplify detection units 24, 26, and 25 that can detect a user's action as a reaction amount. The switch control unit 6 includes a memory unit 66, a determination unit 4, an output unit 5, an abnormality detection unit 3, and an input unit 67.

[0061] Referring to Figure 9, the reactions of the fingers and each switch when switches 21, 23, and 22 are operated will be described. Figure 9 is a diagram schematically showing a contactless switch. In this figure, A shows the state when switch 21 is operated, B shows the state when switch 23 is operated, and C shows the state when switch 22 is operated. The reaction amount of each switch increases as the distance from the finger decreases and decreases as the distance increases. When switch 21 is operated, the reaction amount of switch 21 is high, the reaction amount of switch 23 is medium, and the reaction amount of switch 22 is low. When switch 23 is operated, the reaction amount of switch 23 is high, the reaction amount of switch 22 is medium, and the reaction amount of switch 21 is slight. When switch 22 is operated, the reaction amount of switch 22 is high, the reaction amount of switch 23 is slight, and there is no reaction from switch 21.

[0062] When the reaction amount of any one of the switches 21, 23, and 22 becomes equal to or greater than a threshold (i.e., when it is determined that the switch has turned ON), the memory unit 66 stores the reaction amounts H21, H23, and H22 of the switches 21, 23, and 22 for each switch as stored information M. This storage operation can be performed during normal operation. For example, when it is determined that the switch 21 has been operated and turned ON, the memory unit 66 stores the reaction amounts H21, H23, and H22 of the switches 21, 23, and 22 as stored information M. When it is determined that the switch 22 has been operated and turned ON, the memory unit 66 stores the reaction amounts H21, H23, and H22 of the switches 21, 23, and 22 as stored information M. When it is determined that the switch 23 has been operated and turned ON, the memory unit 66 stores the reaction amounts H21, H23, and H22 of the switches 21, 23, and 22 as stored information M. 8, the storage unit 66 stores stored information M over time and further includes a generation unit 9 that generates a reference value for determining an instruction signal S based on the stored information M. The switch control unit 6 outputs an instruction signal S based on the reaction amounts of the multiple switches and the reference value.

[0063] (Memory information reference operation) An example of the stored information reference operation will be described with reference to Fig. 10. Here, an example will be described in which switches 21, 23, and 22 are normal. Fig. 10 shows an example of stored information M. In this figure, the top row shows the reaction amounts H21, H23, and H22 when switch 21 is operated to turn ON, the second row shows the reaction amounts H21, H23, and H22 when switch 23 is operated to turn ON, and the third row shows the reaction amounts H21, H23, and H22 when switch 22 is operated to turn ON.

[0064] The determination unit 4 determines an instruction signal S based on the reaction amounts of the multiple switches 21, 23, and 22 and the stored information M. In the example of FIG. 10 , the determination unit 4 determines, from the stored information M, 80, which is the median value of the reaction amounts H21 and H23 when the switch 21 is operated, as a threshold value. The determination unit 4 determines an instruction signal S of a control content associated with a switch corresponding to one of the reaction amounts H21, H23, and H22 that exceeds the reference value 80. When the switch 21 is operated, the determination unit 4 determines an instruction signal S for opening the door 90. When the switch 23 is operated, the determination unit 4 determines an instruction signal S for stopping the door 90. When the switch 22 is operated, the determination unit 4 determines an instruction signal S for closing the door 90. The output unit 5 outputs the instruction signal S to a door control unit 91 that controls the operation of the door 90.

[0065] (Relationship information reference operation) An example of the relationship information reference operation will be described with reference to Figures 10 to 13. Here, an example will be described in which one of switches 21, 23, and 22 is abnormal. First, the abnormality detection unit 3 and the notification unit 7 will be described. The abnormality detection unit 3 can detect abnormalities in switches 21, 23, and 22. The notification unit 7 notifies the outside when the abnormality detection unit 3 detects an abnormality in one of the multiple switches 21, 23, and 22.

[0066] The relationship information will now be explained. When the reaction amount of one of the multiple switches 21, 23, and 22 becomes equal to or greater than a threshold, the storage unit 66 stores the relationship between that reaction amount and the reaction amounts of the other switches for each switch as relationship information R. There are no limitations on the relationship between the reaction amounts, but as an example, the ratio between the reaction amounts can be used. In FIG. 11, the ratio of the reaction amount of the switch with the third largest reaction amount to the reaction amount of the switch with the second largest reaction amount in the stored information M of FIG. 10 is shown as relationship information R.

[0067] In other words, if the operated switch is abnormal and no reaction amount can be obtained, it is possible to estimate whether an abnormal switch was operated using the ratio of the second and third reaction amounts. To account for errors and fluctuations, the estimation range can be set by adding a certain margin to the previously obtained reference reaction amount ratio. For example, the estimation range can be set to ±50% of the reference reaction amount ratio. For example, the reference reaction amount ratio can be obtained when the power is turned on or when the surrounding environment continues to change significantly.

[0068] 12 is a schematic diagram showing a state in which switch 23 is operated when switch 23 is abnormal. In this example, the reaction amount of switch 23 is ignored, and whether switch 23 has been operated is estimated from the reaction amounts of switches 21 and 22.

[0069] FIG. 13 shows an example of the relationship information when switch 23 is operated when switch 23 is abnormal. The reaction amounts in FIG. 13 vary due to errors and fluctuations compared to the reaction amounts in FIG. 10. The reaction amount ratio of the reaction amount H21 of switch 21 to the reaction amount H22 of switch 22 is 0.145, which is within the range of ±50% (within the estimated range) of the reference reaction amount ratio of 0.17. From this, the determination unit 4 can estimate that switch 23 has been operated. Based on this estimation, an instruction signal S defined for switch 23 to stop the operation of door 90 is determined and output to the door control unit 91.

[0070] 9 and 14, an example of operation based on memory information or relationship information stored over time will be described. Here, an example in which switch 21 is abnormal will be described. Memory unit 66 stores, over time, the reaction amounts of each of the multiple switches 21, 23, and 22 when the reaction amount of the other switches becomes equal to or greater than a threshold as transition information T, and generation unit 9 generates a reference value for determining instruction signal S based on the transition information T. Determination unit 4 estimates from this reference value whether an abnormal switch has been operated.

[0071] 14 shows an example of transition information in the process of operating the abnormal switch 21 when the switch 21 is abnormal. In this example, the reaction amount of the switch 21 is ignored, and whether or not the switch 21 has been operated is estimated from the transition of the reaction amounts of the switches 22 and 23.

[0072] For example, when the finger is moved from bottom to top to finally operate switch 21, the finger position changes in the order C (referred to as "first timing T1") ⇒ B (referred to as "second timing T2") ⇒ A (referred to as "third timing T3") in Figure 9. At this time, the reaction amount H23 of switch 23 changes from 60 ⇒ 100 ⇒ 10, and the reaction amount H22 of switch 22 changes from 100 ⇒ 60 ⇒ 30. In this example, the reaction amount ratio of reaction amount H22 to reaction amount H23 is 1.67 at the first timing T1, 0.6 at the second timing T2, and 3.0 at the third timing T3.

[0073] The generation unit 9 generates an estimated ratio transition range as a reference value for determining the instruction signal S based on this ratio transition (transition information T). This ratio transition is acquired in advance as a reference ratio transition, and a certain margin is added to this to account for errors and fluctuations to set the estimated ratio transition range. For example, the estimated ratio transition range can be set to ±50% of the reference ratio transition. For example, the reference ratio transition can be acquired when the power is turned on or when the surrounding environment continues to change significantly.

[0074] When the switch 21 is abnormal, if the transition of the reaction amount ratio of the reaction amount H22 to the reaction amount H23 is within the estimated ratio transition range, the determination unit 4 can estimate that the switch 21 has been operated. In other words, if the change pattern of the reaction amount ratio is similar to the change pattern of the transition reference ratio transition, it can be estimated that the switch 21 has been operated. Based on this estimation, the instruction signal S for opening the door 90 defined for the switch 21 is determined and output to the door control unit 91.

[0075] The technical concept of this embodiment can be applied to a control method for the automatic door switch 10. Figure 15 is a flowchart showing the control method S210 for the automatic door switch 10. This figure shows the acquisition process S200, which acquires stored information R to be compared in advance, and the control method S210. The acquisition process S200 includes step S201, which acquires the response amounts of the multiple non-contact detection units 24, 26, and 25, and step S202, which stores the relationship between the response amounts of each detection unit when one detection unit is turned ON. The control method S210 for the automatic door switch 10 includes step S211 of acquiring the reaction amounts of the multiple non-contact detection units 24, 26, and 25 that detect the user's movement as a reaction amount, step S212 of determining an instruction signal S based on relationship information R stored for each detection unit that shows the relationship between the reaction amount of one of the multiple detection units 24, 26, and 25 and the reaction amounts of the other detection units when the reaction amount of that detection unit becomes equal to or greater than a threshold, and step S213 of outputting the instruction signal S to the door control unit 91 that controls the operation of the door 90. Each of these steps is an example, and various modifications are possible.

[0076] According to the control method S210, it is possible to avoid a situation where the non-contact switches become inoperable even if one of them has an abnormality.

[0077] 15 can be executed by a computer as a control program P210 for the automatic door switch 10. That is, the control program P210 for the automatic door switch 10 causes the computer to execute the following steps: Step S211: Acquires the response amounts of the multiple non-contact detectors 24, 26, and 25, which detect the user's movement as a response amount; Steps S212 and S213: Determines an instruction signal S based on relationship information R stored for each detector, which indicates the relationship between the response amount of one of the detectors 24, 26, and 25 and the response amounts of the other detectors when the response amount of that detector becomes equal to or greater than a threshold; and Step S214: Outputs the instruction signal S to the door control unit 91, which controls the operation of the door 90. Each of these steps is an example, and various modifications are possible.

[0078] These functions of the program P210 may be installed in the storage (e.g., memory unit 66) of the automatic door switch 10 as an application program that implements multiple modules corresponding to the functional blocks of the automatic door switch 10. The program P210 may be read into the main memory of a processor (e.g., CPU) of a computer incorporated in the automatic door switch 10 and executed.

[0079] According to the program P210, it is possible to avoid a situation where the non-contact switches become inoperable even if one of them has an abnormality.

[0080] The following describes the features of the automatic door system 200 of this embodiment configured as described above. The automatic door system 200 comprises: a plurality of non-contact switches 21, 23, 22 that are arranged close to each other and include at least an open switch 21 and a close switch 22 for opening and closing the door 90, each of which detects a user's action as a reaction amount; a memory unit 66 that stores, for each switch, the reaction amount of one of the switches 21, 23, 22 when the reaction amount of that switch exceeds a threshold value and the reaction amounts of the other switches as stored information M; a switch control unit 6 that outputs an instruction signal S including an instruction to open and close the door 90 based on the reaction amounts of the switches 21, 23, 22 and the stored information M; and a door control unit 91 that controls the operation of the door 90 in accordance with the instruction signal S.

[0081] This configuration makes it possible to avoid a situation where the non-contact switches become inoperable even if one of them has an abnormality.

[0082] In the automatic door system 200, the memory unit 66 stores memory information M over time and further includes a generation unit 9 that generates a reference value for determining the command signal S based on the memory information M stored over time. The switch control unit 6 outputs the command signal S based on the reaction amounts of multiple switches and the reference value. In this case, the command signal S is determined based on the transition information T, which reduces the effects of individual differences in switches and aging.

[0083] The automatic door system 200 is equipped with an abnormality detection unit 3 that detects abnormalities in the multiple non-contact switches 21, 23, and 22. When the abnormality detection unit 3 detects an abnormality in one of the multiple non-contact switches 21, 23, and 22, the switch control unit 6 determines the instruction signal S based on the response amounts of the other switches and the stored information M. In this case, it is possible to avoid a situation where the switch becomes inoperable even if one switch has an abnormality.

[0084] The automatic door system 200 is equipped with a notification unit 7 that notifies the outside when the abnormality detection unit 3 detects an abnormality in one of the multiple switches 21, 23, and 22. In this case, an outside person such as a user can recognize that the switch is abnormal.

[0085] The technical concept of this embodiment can also be identified by the following description: Automatic door switch 10 includes multiple non-contact detectors 24, 25, 26 that are arranged close to each other and each detects a user's movement as a response amount; a memory unit 66 that stores, for each detector, relationship information R indicating the relationship between the response amount of one of the detectors 24, 25, 26 when the response amount of that detector exceeds a threshold and the response amounts of the other detectors; a determination unit 4 that determines a command signal S based on the response amounts of the detectors 24, 25, 26 and the relationship information R; and an output unit 5 that outputs the command signal S determined by determination unit 4 to a door control unit 91 that controls the operation of door 90. In this case, it is possible to prevent the switch from becoming inoperable even if one switch has an abnormality.

[0086] In the automatic door switch 10, the memory unit 66 stores the relationship information R over time, and further includes a generation unit 9 that generates a reference value for determining the command signal S based on the relationship information R stored over time. The determination unit 4 determines the command signal S based on the reaction amounts of the multiple detection units 24, 25 and the reference value. In this case, since the command signal S is determined based on the transition information T, the influence of individual differences in the switch and changes over time can be reduced.

[0087] The automatic door switch 10 includes an abnormality detection unit 3 that detects abnormalities in the multiple detection units 24, 25, and 26. When the abnormality detection unit 3 detects an abnormality in one of the multiple detection units 24, 25, and 26, the determination unit 4 determines an indication signal S based on the reaction amounts of the other detection units and related information R. In this case, because the indication signal S is determined based on the related information R, the effects of individual differences in the switch and changes over time can be reduced.

[0088] In the automatic door switch 10, the multiple detection units 24, 25, 26 include at least an open detection unit 24 and a close detection unit 25 that output an open command and a close command to the door 90 when the reaction amount reaches or exceeds a threshold. In this case, the automatic door switch 10 can perform an opening operation and a closing operation.

[0089] This concludes the description of the second embodiment.

[0090] [Third embodiment] The following describes an automatic door system 300 according to a third embodiment of the present invention. Explanations that overlap with those of the first embodiment will be omitted where appropriate, and differences from the first embodiment will be explained in detail. The explanation of the first embodiment applies to this embodiment to the extent that no contradictions arise, and in the event of any contradictions, the explanation of this embodiment will take precedence.

[0091] First, we will explain the outline of the automatic door system 300 of this embodiment. The proximity of a finger required for a contactless switch to react varies depending on the setting and method of the switch. For this reason, even if the contactless switch detects a finger, there are cases where the reaction amount does not exceed the threshold and the switch is not in a detected state, which can lead to operational errors.

[0092] Therefore, in the automatic door system 300 of this embodiment, in addition to a threshold (hereinafter referred to as the "second threshold") for determining that the reaction amount of the non-contact switch is ON, a threshold lower than the second threshold (hereinafter referred to as the "first threshold") is set, and when the reaction amount continues between the first threshold and the second threshold for a certain period of time, audio guidance regarding the operation of the non-contact switch is given, thereby reducing operational errors of the non-contact switch. For example, this audio guidance can be such that the user is told, "Please move your hand a little closer when operating." This guidance reduces operational errors of the non-contact switch by the user. The automatic door system 300 will now be described with reference to the drawings.

[0093] Please refer to Figures 16 and 17. Figure 16 is a diagram showing a schematic diagram of an automatic door system 300. Figure 17 is a block diagram showing a schematic diagram of an automatic door system 300 according to the present invention. As shown in Figures 16 and 17, the automatic door system 300 comprises an automatic door switch 10, a door drive device 98 that drives the door 90 to open and close, and an alarm unit 7. The automatic door switch 10 detects the user's actions and transmits an instruction signal S determined based on the detection result to the door drive device 98. The instruction signal S includes control details for the door drive device 98.

[0094] The automatic door switch 10 will now be described. The automatic door switch 10 includes multiple contact switches 11 and 12, multiple non-contact switches 21 and 22, a switch control unit 6, and an alarm unit 7. The switches 11 and 12 and the switches 21 and 22 are located close to each other and each detects a user's action as a reaction amount. The switches 11 and 21 are open switches that accept a user's operation to open the door 90. The switches 12 and 22 are close switches that accept a user's operation to close the door 90. The switches 21 and 22 exemplify detection units 24 and 25 that can detect a user's action as a reaction amount. The switch control unit 6 includes a memory unit 66, a determination unit 4, an output unit 5, an alarm signal output unit 74, and an input unit 67.

[0095] (Notification Department) The notification unit 7 will now be described. The notification unit 7 issues a predetermined notification to the outside when the reaction amount of any one of the multiple switches 21, 22 (hereinafter referred to as "one switch 28") is less than a second threshold value VT2 for determining that the one switch 28 has been operated, and is equal to or greater than a first threshold value VT1 that is smaller than the second threshold value VT2. The notification unit 7 of this embodiment includes a notification signal output unit 74 and a sound output unit 72. The non-contact type detection unit of this embodiment is a non-contact type switch, and the "one switch 28" is exemplified as the "one detection unit 29".

[0096] The notification signal output unit 74 outputs a predetermined notification signal K when the reaction amount of one switch 28 remains less than the second threshold value VT2 and equal to or greater than the first threshold value VT1 for a predetermined period of time. As an example, the predetermined notification signal K is a signal related to audio urging the user to approach the one switch 28. The audio output unit 72 outputs a guide audio in response to the notification signal K. In the example of FIG. 1, the audio output unit 72 is disposed near the multiple switches 21 and 22. Therefore, the audio output unit 72 can cause the user of the automatic door switch 10 to hear the guide audio.

[0097] Changes in the response amount of the non-contact switch will be described with reference to Figures 18 to 20. Figures 18 to 20 are diagrams showing first to third examples of changes in the response amount of the non-contact switches 21 and 22. The horizontal axis of each diagram indicates the elapsed time when a finger approaches, and the vertical axis indicates the response amount g1. The response amount g1 in each diagram indicates the amount of change relative to a reference value. The automatic door switch 10 of this embodiment has a first threshold value VT1 and a second threshold value VT2 for the response amount g1 of the non-contact switch.

[0098] The second threshold value VT2 is a threshold value at which it is determined that the switch has been operated when the reaction amount g1 is equal to or greater than the second threshold value VT2. Hereinafter, the state in which the switch is operated will be referred to as the ON state, and the state in which the switch is not operated will be referred to as the OFF state.

[0099] The reaction amount g1 not only undergoes monotonous changes but also undergoes various fluctuations. When the reaction amount g1 is near the second threshold value VT2, chattering may occur, where the reaction amount g1 alternates between an ON state where the reaction amount g1 is equal to or greater than the second threshold value VT2 and an OFF state where the reaction amount g1 is less than the second threshold value VT2. Furthermore, the reaction amount g1 may continue to increase, decrease, overshoot, etc. after exceeding the second threshold value VT2. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 18, the non-contact switch of this embodiment determines that the reaction amount g1 is in the ON state when the state in which the reaction amount g1 exceeds the second threshold value VT2 continues for a predetermined period (hereinafter referred to as the "holding period U"). The reaction amount g1 in FIG. 18 satisfies the condition of the holding period U, and is therefore determined to be in the ON state.

[0100] The first threshold VT1 is used to determine a state in which the switch detects a finger but the response amount g1 is insufficient and less than the second threshold VT2 (hereinafter referred to as the "intermediate state"). Therefore, the first threshold VT1 is set to a level lower than the second threshold VT2. In other words, a state in which the switch response amount g1 is equal to or greater than the first threshold VT1 but less than the second threshold VT2 is referred to as the intermediate state. As mentioned above, the response amount g1 varies in a variety of ways. As shown in FIG. 19, when the response amount g1 fluctuates significantly and is unstable, noise may be superimposed. Therefore, the automatic door switch 10 determines that the switch is in the intermediate state when the state in which the non-contact switch response amount g1 is less than the second threshold VT2 but greater than or equal to the first threshold VT1 continues for a predetermined period (hereinafter referred to as the "maintenance period Q"). The response amount g1 in FIG. 19 does not satisfy the conditions for the maintenance period Q, so it is not determined to be the intermediate state, and no voice guidance is output.

[0101] The response amount g1 in FIG. 20 is stable within a range of less than the second threshold value VT2 and equal to or greater than the first threshold value VT1, satisfying the condition for the maintenance period Q, and is therefore determined to be an intermediate state. If the intermediate state is determined, the notification signal output unit 74 outputs a predetermined notification signal K. In other words, the notification signal output unit 74 outputs the predetermined notification signal K when the state in which the response amount g1 of one switch 28 is less than the second threshold value VT2 and equal to or greater than the first threshold value VT1 continues for the predetermined maintenance period Q. The audio output unit 72 outputs a guidance voice in response to the notification signal K. The guidance voice may be a voice urging the user to approach the switch, and the notification signal K may be a signal for causing the audio output unit 72 to output the guidance voice.

[0102] The technical concept of this embodiment can be applied to a control method for the automatic door switch 10. Fig. 21 is a flowchart showing the control method S310 for the automatic door switch 10. The control method S310 includes the steps of acquiring the response amounts of the multiple non-contact detectors 24, 25 that detect the user's actions as response amounts, and steps S311, S312, and S313 of outputting a predetermined alarm signal K when the response amount of any one detector 29 of the multiple detectors 24, 25 is less than a second threshold VT2 for determining that the one detector 29 has been operated and is equal to or greater than a first threshold VT1 that is smaller than the second threshold VT2 for determining that the one detector 29 has responded. These steps are merely examples, and various modifications are possible.

[0103] According to the control method S310, a predetermined notification signal K is output to prompt the user to approach, thereby reducing operational errors in the non-contact type detection unit 29.

[0104] 21 can be executed by a computer as a control program P310 for the automatic door switch 10. Specifically, the control program P310 for the automatic door switch 10 causes the computer to execute the following steps: acquiring the response amounts of the multiple non-contact detectors 24, 25 that detect the user's actions as response amounts; and outputting a predetermined alarm signal K when the response amount of any one detector 29 of the multiple detectors 24, 25 is less than a second threshold VT2 for determining that the one detector 29 has been operated and is equal to or greater than a first threshold VT1 that is smaller than the second threshold VT2 for determining that the one detector 29 has responded. These steps are merely examples, and various modifications are possible.

[0105] These functions of the program P310 may be installed in the storage (e.g., memory unit 66) of the automatic door switch 10 as an application program that implements multiple modules corresponding to the functional blocks of the automatic door switch 10. The program P310 may be read into the main memory of a processor (e.g., CPU) of a computer incorporated in the automatic door switch 10 and executed.

[0106] According to the program P310, a predetermined notification signal K is output to prompt the user to approach, thereby reducing operational errors of the non-contact type detection unit 29.

[0107] The following describes the features of the automatic door system 300 of this embodiment, configured as described above. The automatic door system 300 comprises multiple non-contact switches 21, 21 that are located close to each other and include at least an open switch and a close switch for opening and closing the door 90, each of which detects a user's action as a reaction amount; a door control unit 91 that controls the door 90 in accordance with the reaction amounts of the multiple switches; and an alarm unit 7 that issues a predetermined alarm when the reaction amount of any one of the multiple switches is less than a second threshold value VT2 for determining that the switch has been operated and equal to or greater than a first threshold value VT1 that is smaller than the second threshold value VT2 for determining that the switch has reacted.

[0108] According to this configuration, a predetermined notification signal K is output to prompt the user to approach, and the occurrence of operational errors of the non-contact switch 28 can be reduced.

[0109] In the automatic door system 300, the alarm unit 7 issues a predetermined alarm when the response amount of one switch remains below the second threshold value VT2 and above the first threshold value VT1 for a predetermined period of time. In this case, unnecessary alarms can be avoided when noise causes the response amount to become below the second threshold value VT2 but above the first threshold value VT1 for a short period of time.

[0110] In the automatic door system 300, the content of the predetermined notification is a voice prompting the user to approach one of the switches 28. In this case, the user can recognize that he or she should approach the switch 28.

[0111] The technical concept of this embodiment can also be identified by the following description: Automatic door switch 10 comprises multiple non-contact detectors arranged close to each other, each detecting a user's action as a reaction amount, a decision unit 4 that determines an instruction signal S to be output to door control unit 91 that controls door 90 based on the detection results of multiple detectors 24, 25, and an alarm signal output unit 5 that outputs a predetermined alarm signal when the reaction amount of any one of multiple detectors 24, 25 is less than a second threshold VT2 for determining that that one detector has been operated and is equal to or greater than a first threshold VT1 that is smaller than the second threshold VT2 for determining that that one switch 28 has reacted.

[0112] According to this configuration, a predetermined notification signal K is output to prompt the user to approach, and operational errors of the non-contact type detection unit 29 can be reduced.

[0113] In the automatic door switch 10, the alarm signal output unit 74 outputs a predetermined alarm signal K when the reaction amount of one detector 29 remains below the second threshold value VT2 and equal to or greater than the first threshold value VT1 for a predetermined period of time. In this case, unnecessary alarms can be avoided when noise causes the reaction amount to become less than the second threshold value VT2 and equal to or greater than the first threshold value VT1 for a short period of time.

[0114] In the automatic door switch 10, the predetermined notification signal K is a signal related to sound that prompts the user to approach one of the detection units 29. In this case, the user can recognize that he or she should approach the detection unit 29.

[0115] In the automatic door switch 10, the multiple detection units 24, 25 include at least an open detection unit 24 and a close detection unit 25 that output an open command and a close command for the door 90 when the reaction amount reaches or exceeds a threshold. In this case, the user can reduce operational errors when performing the open and close operations.

[0116] The above is the description of the third embodiment.

[0117] [Fourth embodiment] The following describes an automatic door system 400 according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. Explanations that overlap with those of the first embodiment will be omitted where appropriate, and differences from the first embodiment will be explained in detail. The explanation of the first embodiment shall be applied to this embodiment to the extent that no contradictions arise, and in the event of any contradictions, the explanation of this embodiment shall take precedence.

[0118] First, an overview of the automatic door system 400 of this embodiment will be described. Being able to perform multiple different operations with a single non-contact switch allows for a wide variety of operations without increasing the number of switches. For example, a single non-contact switch could be configured to distinguish between a normal operation and a long press operation, with one operation set to open the door and the other set to close the door. Furthermore, in an automatic door system with multiple operating modes, it could be configured to distinguish between a normal operation and a long press operation, with one operation set to the normal operation for opening or closing the door and the other set to a mode change operation for changing the operating mode.

[0119] Therefore, the automatic door system 400 of this embodiment determines whether the switch is being pressed normally or pressed long, based on the duration that the non-contact switch's response is above a threshold. In this system, if the former is the case, the system executes a normal operation, such as opening or closing the door, defined for the switch, and if the latter is the case, the system executes a specific operation, such as a mode change operation. By distinguishing between these two operations based on the duration, the user can perform two different operations with a single non-contact switch. The automatic door system 400 will now be described with reference to the drawings.

[0120] Please refer to Figures 22 and 23. Figure 22 is a diagram showing a schematic diagram of an automatic door system 400. Figure 23 is a block diagram showing a schematic diagram of an automatic door system 400 according to the present invention. As shown in Figures 22 and 23, the automatic door system 400 comprises an automatic door switch 10, a door drive device 98 that drives the door 90 to open and close, and an alarm unit 7. The automatic door switch 10 detects the user's actions and transmits an instruction signal S determined based on the detection result to the door drive device 98. The instruction signal S includes control details for the door drive device 98.

[0121] The automatic door switch 10 will be described. The automatic door switch 10 includes multiple contact switches 11 and 12, multiple non-contact switches 21 and 22, and a switch control unit 6. The switches 11 and 12 are located close to each other and each detects a user's action as a reaction amount. The switches 21 and 22 are located close to each other and each detects a user's action as a reaction amount. The switches 11 and 21 are open switches that accept a user's operation to open the door 90. The switches 12 and 22 are close switches that accept a user's operation to close the door 90. The switches 21 and 22 exemplify detection units 24 and 25 that can detect a user's action as a reaction amount.

[0122] In the description of this embodiment, the operation of bringing a finger close to the non-contact switches 21, 22, regardless of whether the finger is in contact with the switch, is referred to as the operation of pressing the switch 21, 22. Unless otherwise specified, a "pressing operation" or "long press" of a non-contact switch means that the response amount of the switch exceeds a threshold value.

[0123] The switch control unit 6 includes a storage unit 66 , a decision unit 4 , an output unit 5 , an operation determination unit 8 , and an input unit 67 .

[0124] The non-contact type open switch 21 and close switch 22 exemplify the plurality of detectors 24, 25. Hereinafter, the switch among the plurality of non-contact type switches 21, 22 that is used to determine a long press operation may be referred to as switch 28. Switch 28 exemplifies detector 29. Switch 28 may be either open switch 21 or close switch 22. In the following explanation, an example in which switch 28 is close switch 22 is shown.

[0125] In this embodiment, the operation determination unit 8 determines that a long press of the switch 28 has occurred when the state in which the reaction amount of the switch 28 exceeds the threshold continues for a predetermined second period E. As an example, the second period E can be set to a range of 0.5 seconds or more and 5 seconds or less. In this description, the second period E will sometimes be referred to as y seconds. Furthermore, the operation determination unit 8 determines that a normal operation of the switch 28 has occurred when the state in which the reaction amount of the switch 28 exceeds the threshold continues for a predetermined first period D that is shorter than the second period E. As an example, the first period D can be set to a period shorter than the second period E and in a range of 0.3 seconds or more and 3 seconds or less. In this description, the first period D will sometimes be referred to as x seconds.

[0126] When the operation determination unit 8 determines that a long press operation has been performed, the determination unit 4 of the switch control unit 6 executes a specific operation associated with the long press operation of the switch 28. The operation associated with the switch may be an operation defined for the switch. The specific operation is not limited to this, but in this example, it is a mode change operation. This embodiment has a normal operation mode in which the door is fully closed or fully opened in response to the switch operation, and an inching mode in which the door is moved only while the switch operation is being performed in response to the switch operation. The mode change operation allows switching between the normal operation mode and the inching mode.

[0127] As an example, when the operation determination unit 8 determines that a long press operation has been performed, the mode change operation can be executed without a confirmation operation. In particular, when the operation determination unit 8 determines that a long press operation has been performed on the switch 28, the switch control unit 6 outputs an instruction signal S associated with the long press operation on the switch 28. Specifically, when it is determined that a long press operation has been performed, the determination unit 4 determines the instruction signal S as a control signal corresponding to the inching mode, and the output unit 5 outputs the instruction signal S for the inching mode determined by the determination unit 4.

[0128] A user may perform a long press operation without intending to change the mode, which may cause confusion if the device operates in the changed mode without any announcement. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the operation determination unit 8 determines that a long press operation has been performed, the switch control unit 6 performs a confirmation operation to determine whether to permit execution of a specific operation (mode change operation). If the confirmation operation permits execution of the specific operation, the switch control unit 6 performs the specific operation, and if the confirmation operation does not permit execution of the specific operation, the switch control unit 6 outputs an instruction signal S for the control content associated with the switch 28.

[0129] The confirmation operation S410 of the automatic door system 400 will be described with reference to Figures 24, 25, and 26. Figure 24 is a flowchart showing the confirmation operation S410 of the automatic door system 400. Figure 25 is a timing chart showing the confirmation operation S410. Figure 26 is a schematic diagram showing the confirmation operation S410. In this example, of switches 21 and 22, switch 28 used to determine whether a long press operation has been performed is switch 22.

[0130] When the checking operation S410 is started, the operation determination unit 8 determines whether the state in which the reaction amount of the switch 22 exceeds the threshold value has continued for a first period D (x seconds) (step S411). If this has not continued (N in step S411), the process returns to the beginning of step S411.

[0131] The notification unit 7 will now be described. From the viewpoint of convenience, it is desirable to notify the user of the continuation of the long press. Therefore, this embodiment includes a notification unit 7 that issues a notification at least one of the timing when a second period E has elapsed while the response amount of the switch 22 has exceeded the threshold, and the timing when a predetermined first period D, which is shorter than the second period E, has elapsed while the response amount of the switch 22 has exceeded the threshold. In particular, in this example, the notification control unit 71 of the notification unit 7 controls the audio output unit 72 to output beeps with different tones depending on whether the threshold has been exceeded and the first period D has elapsed or the second period E has elapsed.

[0132] Return to the confirmation operation S410. If the state where the threshold is exceeded continues for a first period D (x seconds) (Y in step S411), the notification unit 7 performs a first notification by outputting a beep from the audio output unit 72 (step S412).

[0133] After step S412 is executed, the operation determination unit 8 determines whether the state in which the reaction amount of the switch 22 exceeds the threshold value continues for a second period E (y seconds) (step S413). If it does not continue (N in step S413), the process jumps to step S419. In this case, the closing operation associated with the switch 22 is executed.

[0134] If the state where the threshold is exceeded continues for a second period E (y seconds) (Y in step S413), the operation determination unit 8 executes a mode selection operation (steps S414 to S419). In the mode selection operation, the notification unit 7 performs a second notification by outputting a beep from the audio output unit 72 (step S414).

[0135] After step S414 is executed, the operation determination unit 8 determines whether or not to change the mode (step S415). In this step, as shown in Fig. 26, the notification unit 7 outputs a guide voice such as "Do you want to change the mode?" from the voice output unit 72, and the switch control unit 6 executes a confirmation operation to determine whether or not to permit execution of the specific operation (mode change operation).

[0136] At this time, as shown on the right side of Fig. 26, the non-contact type open switch 21 and the contact type open switch 11 can be preset to "yes," and the non-contact type close switch 22 and the contact type close switch 12 can be preset to "no." That is, the operation determination unit 8 determines that a mode change will be made when the open switch 21 is pressed, and determines that a mode change will not be made when the close switch 22 is pressed.

[0137] If the operation of pressing the open switch 21 is too short, it may be due to an erroneous operation. Therefore, in this embodiment, it is determined whether the operation of pressing the open switch 21 continues for a third period F (step S416). In this description, the third period F may be referred to as z seconds. As an example, the third period F can be set within a range of 0.2 seconds to 2 seconds. If the operation of pressing the open switch 21 does not continue for the third period F (N in step S416), the process returns to the beginning of step S415.

[0138] If the operation of pressing the close switch 22 is too short, it may be due to an erroneous operation. Therefore, in this embodiment, it is determined whether the operation of pressing the close switch 22 continues for a third period F (step S418). If the operation of pressing the close switch 22 does not continue for the third period F (N in step S418), the process returns to the beginning of step S415.

[0139] If the operation of pressing the open switch 21 continues for the third period F (Y in step S416), the decision unit 4 executes a mode change operation (step S417). In this step, the decision unit 4 changes from the normal operation mode to the inching mode. The decision unit 4 determines the instruction signal S as a control signal corresponding to the inching mode, and the output unit 5 outputs the instruction signal S for the inching mode determined by the decision unit 4. After step S417 is executed, the confirmation operation S410 ends.

[0140] If the operation of pressing the close switch 22 continues for the third period F (Y in step S418), the decision unit 4 does not execute the mode change operation, but executes the normal operation mode (step S419). In this step, the decision unit 4 determines the instruction signal S corresponding to the full-close operation of the door 90 associated with the pressed switch 22, and the output unit 5 outputs the instruction signal S corresponding to the full-close operation. After step S419 is executed, the confirmation operation S410 ends.

[0141] The steps of the confirmation operation S410 are merely examples, and various modifications are possible. In the above explanation, an example of changing from the normal operation mode to the inching mode was shown, but by executing steps S411 to S419 again, it is possible to change from the inching mode to the normal operation mode.

[0142] A second example of the checking operation will be described with reference to Fig. 27. Fig. 27 is a timing chart showing the second example of the checking operation.

[0143] (1) Case A If the state in which the reaction amount of the close switch 22 exceeded the threshold was interrupted α seconds before x seconds, and the contact-type close switch 12 (associated with the same closing operation as the close switch 22) was continuously pressed and held, the count of switch 22 up to α seconds is maintained, and the input of switch 12 starts from the continuation of that count. In other words, when the sum of the count of switch 22 and the count of switch 12 exceeds y seconds, the above-described mode selection operation (steps S414 to S419) may be executed.

[0144] (2) Case B If the state in which the reaction amount of the close switch 22 exceeds the threshold value ceases α seconds before x seconds, the switch control unit 6 may not execute the mode change operation, but may output an instruction signal S corresponding to the full-close operation of the door 90 associated with the switch that is pressed at the time of x seconds (in the example of Figure 27, the contact-type close switch 12).

[0145] (3) Case C If the state in which the reaction amount of the close switch 22 exceeds the threshold value ceases α seconds before x seconds, and the close switch 12 (associated with the same closing operation as the close switch 22) is still pressed and held at y seconds, the above-mentioned mode selection operation (steps S414 to S419) may be performed.

[0146] The technical concept of this embodiment can be applied to a method for controlling the automatic door switch 10. Figure 28 is a diagram showing the processing steps included in the control method S430 for the automatic door switch 10. The control method S430 includes step S431 of detecting the amount of response of the non-contact detection unit 29, which detects the user's action as a response amount; determination step S432 of determining that a long press operation of the detection unit 29 has occurred when the state in which the response amount of the detection unit 29 exceeds a threshold continues for a predetermined period of time; and step S433 of executing a specific operation associated with the long press operation of the detection unit 29 when it is determined in the determination step that a long press operation has occurred. Each of these steps is an example, and various modifications are possible.

[0147] According to the control method S430, by executing a specific action associated with a long press operation on the detection unit 29, the user can perform two different operations with one non-contact detection unit.

[0148] 28 can be executed by a computer as a control program P430 for the automatic door switch 10. That is, the control program P430 for the automatic door switch 10 causes the computer to execute the following steps: Step S431: Detecting the amount of response of the non-contact type detection unit 29, which detects the user's action as a response amount; Step S432: Determining that a long press operation of the detection unit 29 has occurred when the response amount of the detection unit 29 has exceeded a threshold value for a predetermined period of time; and Step S433: Executing a specific operation associated with the long press operation of the detection unit 29 when it is determined in the determination step that a long press operation has occurred. Each of these steps is an example, and various modifications are possible.

[0149] These functions of the program P430 may be installed in the storage (e.g., memory unit 66) of the automatic door switch 10 as an application program that implements multiple modules corresponding to the functional blocks of the automatic door switch 10. The program P430 may be read into the main memory of a processor (e.g., CPU) of a computer incorporated in the automatic door switch 10 and executed.

[0150] According to the control method S430, by executing a specific action associated with a long press operation on the detection unit 29, the user can perform two different operations with one non-contact detection unit.

[0151] The following describes the features of the automatic door system 400 of this embodiment configured as described above. The automatic door system 400 includes a non-contact switch 28 that detects a user's action as a reaction amount to open or close the door 90, a switch control unit 6 that outputs an instruction signal S based on the detection state of the switch 28, a door control unit 91 that controls the door 90 in response to the instruction signal S from the switch control unit 6, and an operation determination unit 8 that determines that a long press of the switch 28 has occurred when the reaction amount of the switch 28 exceeds a threshold and continues for a predetermined second period E. When the operation determination unit 8 determines that a long press has occurred, the switch control unit 6 executes a specific operation associated with the long press of the switch 28.

[0152] According to this configuration, by performing a specific action associated with a long press of switch 28, the user can perform two different operations with one non-contact type detection unit.

[0153] As an example, when the operation determination unit 8 determines that a long press of the switch has been performed, the switch control unit 6 outputs an instruction signal S associated with the long press of the switch as a specific operation. In this case, the mode can be changed by the long press.

[0154] In the automatic door system 400, when the operation determination unit 8 determines that a long press has been performed, the switch control unit 6 executes a confirmation operation to determine whether or not to permit the execution of a specific operation. In this case, if a long press is performed without the intention of changing modes, the user can reconfirm their intention through the confirmation operation.

[0155] In the automatic door system 400, if the confirmation operation does not permit the execution of a specific operation, the switch control unit 6 outputs an instruction signal S for the control content associated with the switch. In this case, if the user presses and holds the switch without intending to change modes, the user can perform the normal opening and closing operation.

[0156] The automatic door system 400 includes a notification unit 7 that issues a notification when the second period E has elapsed while the response amount of the switch 28 has exceeded the threshold. In this case, the user can be notified that the switch is being pressed and held.

[0157] The technical concept of this embodiment can also be identified by the following description: Automatic door switch 10 includes a non-contact detection unit 29 that detects a user's action as a reaction amount, a determination unit 4 that determines an instruction signal S based on the detection state of detection unit 29, an output unit 5 that outputs the instruction signal S determined by determination unit 4 to a door control unit 91 that controls door 90, and an operation determination unit 8 that determines that a long press operation of detection unit 29 has occurred when a state in which the reaction amount of detection unit 29 exceeds a threshold value continues for a predetermined period of time. When operation determination unit 8 determines that a long press operation has occurred, determination unit 4 executes a specific operation associated with the long press operation of detection unit 29.

[0158] According to this configuration, by performing a specific action associated with a long press on the detector 29, the user can perform two different operations with one non-contact detector.

[0159] As an example, when the operation determination unit 8 determines that a long press operation of the detection unit 29 has been performed, the determination unit 4 determines, as the specific operation, the instruction signal S associated with the long press operation of the detection unit 29. In this case, the mode can be changed by the long press operation.

[0160] In the automatic door switch 10, when the operation determination unit 8 determines that a long press operation has been performed, the determination unit 4 executes a confirmation operation to determine whether or not to permit the execution of a specific operation. In this case, if a long press operation is performed without the intention of changing modes, the user can reconfirm their intention through the confirmation operation.

[0161] In the automatic door switch 10, if the confirmation operation does not permit the execution of a specific operation, the determination unit 4 determines the instruction signal S of the control content associated with the detection unit 29. In this case, when a long press is performed without the intention of changing the mode, the user can perform the normal opening and closing operation.

[0162] This concludes the description of the fourth embodiment.

[0163] The above describes in detail examples of embodiments of the present invention. The above-described embodiments merely illustrate specific examples of implementing the present invention. The contents of the embodiments do not limit the technical scope of the present invention, and many design changes, such as changes, additions, and deletions of components, are possible within the scope of the inventive concept defined in the claims. In the above-described embodiments, content that allows such design changes is described using notations such as "in the embodiment" or "in the embodiment," but this does not mean that design changes are not permitted in content that does not have such notations.

[0164] [Variations] The following describes modified examples. In the drawings and descriptions of the modified examples, the same or equivalent components and members as those in the embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals. Explanations that overlap with the embodiment will be omitted as appropriate, and the description will focus on the configurations that differ from the embodiment.

[0165] In the description of the embodiment, an example has been shown in which the determination unit 4 determines the instruction signal S without using AI, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the determination of the instruction signal S can be performed using a machine learning model generated based on previously acquired information. The machine learning model can be generated by machine learning (supervised learning) using information on the pattern of changes in the reaction amount of each switch when a certain switch is operated as input and the operation result as output.

[0166] In the description of the embodiment, an example in which the notification unit 7 outputs a predetermined sound has been shown, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the notification unit may output a sound, a light (such as a blinking LED), a screen display, or the like that can be perceived by a person, instead of a sound.

[0167] In the description of the embodiment, an example has been shown in which the non-contact open switch and the non-contact close switch are provided with independent non-contact detection units, but this is not limiting. For example, the non-contact open switch and the non-contact close switch may be realized by a single non-contact detection unit.

[0168] In the description of the embodiment, an example has been shown in which the switch control unit 6 is mounted on the automatic door switch 10, but the present invention is not limited to this. The switch control unit may also be mounted on the door driving device.

[0169] In the description of the embodiment, an example was shown in which the transmission path 96 includes an internal bus in the device, but this is not limiting, and any known wired or wireless information transmission means can be used as the transmission path.

[0170] The above-described modified examples have the same functions and effects as the respective embodiments.

[0171] Any combination of the above-described embodiments and modifications is also useful as an embodiment of the present invention. A new embodiment resulting from the combination has the combined effects of the combined embodiments and modifications. [Explanation of symbols]

[0172] 1 contact switch group, 2 non-contact switch group, 3 abnormality detection section, 4 decision section, 5 output section, 6 switch control section, 7 notification section, 8 operation judgment section, 9 generation section, 10 automatic door switch, 11 open switch, 12 close switch, 21 open switch, 22 close switch, 24, 25 detection section, 90 door, 91 door control section, 94 room, 98 door drive device, 100 automatic door device.

Claims

[Claim 1] a contact switch group including a contact open switch and a contact close switch for opening and closing the door, and detecting the user's action as a reaction amount; a group of non-contact switches including a non-contact open switch and a non-contact close switch for opening and closing the door, and detecting a user's action as a reaction amount; an abnormality detection unit that detects an abnormality in each switch of the contact switch group and the non-contact switch group; Equipped with When the abnormality detection unit detects an abnormality in one of the switch groups of the contact switch group and the non-contact switch group, it restricts opening and closing of the door using that switch group. Automatic door device.

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