Man Conveyor

Abstract

To provide a passenger conveyor capable of preventing passengers from riding unevenly on one side region in the width direction of a tread part. [Solution] The people conveyor has a plurality of steps with treads on which people stand, a first light-projecting unit that projects light onto a first area to display a first position indicator indicating a first boarding position with light in a first area on one side of the width of the treads, and a second light-projecting unit that projects light onto a second area to display a second position indicator indicating a second boarding position with light in a second area on the other side of the width of the treads, the first light-projecting unit alternates between an on state in which it projects light onto the first area and an off state in which it stops emitting light so that the first position indicator repeatedly flashes in the same shape, and the second light-projecting unit alternates between an on state in which it projects light onto the second area and an off state in which it stops emitting light so that the second position indicator repeatedly flashes in the same shape.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This specification relates to a people conveyor. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, for example, people conveyors have multiple steps with treads on which people stand (see, for example, Patent Document 1). People can stand on a first region on one side of the tread in the width direction and a second region on the other side of the tread in the width direction. However, people tend to stand on one side of the tread in the width direction (the first region or the second region). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2012-236660 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Therefore, the object is to provide a people conveyor that can prevent people from riding on only one side of the tread portion in the width direction. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] Man conveyors are a plurality of steps each having a tread portion on which a person stands; a first light-projecting unit that projects light onto a first region on one side of the tread portion in the width direction to display a first position indicator that indicates a first riding position with light in the first region; a second light-emitting unit that projects light onto a second region on the other side of the tread portion in the width direction to display a second position indicator that indicates a second riding position with light in the second region, the first light-projecting unit repeats an on state in which it projects light onto the first area and an off state in which it stops projecting light so that the first position indication repeatedly flashes in the same shape; The second light projecting unit alternates between a lighting state in which it projects light onto the second region and a lighting-off state in which it stops projecting light, so that the second position indication repeatedly flashes in the same shape. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0006] [Figure 1] Schematic diagram of an elevator according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a main part of a conveying unit according to the embodiment; [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a front view of a main part of an elevator hall according to the embodiment; [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a plan view of a main part of an elevator hall according to the embodiment; [Figure 5] Control block diagram of an elevator according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a plan view of a main part illustrating the elevator position display method according to the embodiment; [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a plan view of a main part illustrating the elevator position display method according to the embodiment; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] In each drawing, the dimensions of the components may be enlarged or reduced relative to the actual dimensions, for example, to facilitate understanding, and the dimensional ratios between the drawings may not be consistent. Note that in each drawing, for example, to facilitate understanding, some of the components may be omitted.

[0008] 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 the components are not particularly limited by these terms. The number of components including ordinal numbers is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, one. Furthermore, the ordinal numbers used in the following specification and drawings may differ from the ordinal numbers described in the claims.

[0009] An embodiment of a passenger conveyor will be described below with reference to Figures 1 to 7. Note that the following embodiment is provided as an example to aid in understanding the configuration of the passenger conveyor, and is not intended to limit the configuration of the passenger conveyor.

[0010] As shown in Figure 1, the passenger conveyor 1 may include, for example, a structure 2 installed on a main body, a transport unit 3 for transporting people (passengers), a pair of balustrade units 4 (only one is shown in Figure 1) arranged to sandwich the transport unit 3 in a first direction D1, a drive unit 5 for driving the transport unit 3 and the balustrade units 4, and a processing unit 6 for controlling the entire device.

[0011] In each figure, the first direction D1 is the width direction (also called the "first horizontal direction") D1, which is a direction parallel to the horizontal direction; the second direction D2 is the front-to-back direction (also called the "second horizontal direction") D2, which is a direction parallel to the horizontal direction and perpendicular to the width direction D1; and the third direction D3 is the vertical direction perpendicular to the width direction D1 and the front-to-back direction D2, which is the up-down direction D3.

[0012] The inside of the width direction (first horizontal direction) D1 refers to the side closer to the center 1c (see Figures 3 and 4) of the width direction D1 of the passenger conveyor 1, and the outside of the width direction D1 refers to the side farther from the center 1c of the width direction D1 of the passenger conveyor 1. Furthermore, the inside of the front-to-rear direction (second horizontal direction) D2 refers to the side closer to the center of the front-to-rear direction D2 of the passenger conveyor 1, and the outside of the front-to-rear direction D2 refers to the side farther from the center of the front-to-rear direction D2 of the passenger conveyor 1.

[0013] The passenger conveyor 1 according to this embodiment is an escalator with stepped treads for transporting passengers, but is not limited to this configuration. For example, the passenger conveyor 1 may be a moving walkway with flat treads for transporting passengers.

[0014] The transport unit 3 includes a plurality of steps 8 on which people can ride. The transport unit 3 may also include, for example, an annular running unit 7 that rotates and runs, as in this embodiment. For example, as in this embodiment, the running unit 7 may be driven by the drive unit 5 to rotate and run, and the plurality of steps 8 may be connected to the running unit 7 and run together with the running unit 7. In this way, the steps 8 run with people on board.

[0015] For example, as in this embodiment, the drive unit 5 may include a rotation unit 5a around which a first end of the travel unit 7 in the front-rear direction D2 is wrapped and which rotates about an axis in the width direction D1, a support unit 5b that supports a second end of the travel unit 7 in the front-rear direction D2, a drive source 5c that rotates the rotation unit 5a, and a braking unit 5d that brakes the rotation of the rotation unit 5a. As a result, the step 8 is reversed by the rotation unit 5a and also reversed by the support unit 5b.

[0016] Although not particularly limited, the rotating portion 5a may be, for example, a sprocket. Furthermore, although not particularly limited, the support portion 5b may be, for example, a guide member that guides the running portion 7 so that it rotates in the reverse direction, or may be, for example, a rotating member (e.g., a sprocket) around which the running portion 7 is wound and which rotates about an axis in the width direction D1. Furthermore, although not particularly limited, the driving source 5c may be, for example, a motor and an inverter. Furthermore, although not particularly limited, the braking portion 5d may be, for example, a brake.

[0017] The balustrade section 4 is positioned further outward in the width direction D1 than the steps 8. The balustrade section 4 may, for example, as in this embodiment, comprise an endless circular handrail belt 4a that rotates and runs, a balustrade main body section 4b that supports the handrail belt 4a, and a cover section 4c that covers the lower part of the balustrade main body section 4b. Note that, for example, the handrail belt 4a may run due to the drive of the drive section 5, and the running of the handrail belt 4a may be synchronized with the running of the steps 8.

[0018] The structure 2 may, for example, include machine rooms 2a and 2b located at each end in the front-to-rear direction D2, as in this embodiment. The machine room 2a located at the bottom is referred to as the first machine room 2a, and the machine room 2b located at the top is referred to as the second machine room 2b. The structure 2 may also have, for example, a truss structure or a girder structure made up of multiple frame members.

[0019] The passenger conveyor 1 is equipped with floor plates 9 that form the floors of the landings 1a and 1b. For example, as in this embodiment, the floor plates 9 may be attached to the structure 2 so as to cover the machine rooms 2a and 2b from above. As a result, the landings 1a and 1b are located at each end of the transport section 3 in the forward / backward direction D2 in order to allow passengers to get on and off the steps 8.

[0020] In this embodiment, the passenger conveyor 1 is configured to transport passengers diagonally upward, so the first boarding and alighting station 1a located below becomes the boarding station 1a, and the second boarding and alighting station 1b located above becomes the alighting station 1b. Note that the passenger conveyor 1 may also be configured to transport passengers diagonally downward.

[0021] 2, the running portion 7 may include, for example, a chain and a roller rotatably connected to the chain. The running portion 7 may be provided as a pair spaced apart in the width direction D1, as in the present embodiment, and the steps 8 may be arranged between the pair of running portions 7, 7.

[0022] Also, for example, as in this embodiment, the transport unit 3 may be configured to include a connecting shaft 3a connecting the pair of running units 7, 7, and the step 8 may be rotatably coupled to the connecting shaft 3a. As a result, the step 8 is connected to each running unit 7 so as to be rotatable about an axis in the width direction D1.

[0023] For example, as in this embodiment, the step 8 may include a step main body 8a and a step roller 8b rotatably connected to the step main body 8a so as to be rotatable about an axis in the width direction D1. The step main body 8a includes a tread portion 10 on which a person stands. Furthermore, as in this embodiment, the step main body 8a may include a rise portion 8c formed in a curved shape and a pivot portion 8d rotatably connected to the connecting shaft 3a.

[0024] The tread portion 10 includes a base portion 10a for people to stand on, and boundary portions 10b to 10d that are located at the ends and have a color different from that of the base portion 10a. Although not particularly limited, the base portion 10a may be, for example, silver or black, and the boundary portions 10b to 10d may be, for example, yellow or orange.

[0025] The boundaries 10b to 10d may include, for example, first boundaries 10b, 10b located at the ends of the tread portion 10 in the width direction D1, a second boundary 10c located at a first end of the tread portion 10 in the front-to-rear direction D2, and a third boundary 10d located at a second end of the tread portion 10 in the front-to-rear direction D2. The boundaries 10b to 10d are also referred to as demarcations, for example.

[0026] 3 and 4, the passenger conveyor 1 is equipped with a first light-projecting unit 11 that projects light onto a first region 10e on one side of the tread portion 10 in the width direction D1, and a second light-projecting unit 12 that projects light onto a second region 10f on the other side of the tread portion 10 in the width direction D1. Although not particularly limited, in FIGS. 3 and 4, the first region 10e is the right half of the tread portion 10, and the second region 10f is the left half of the tread portion 10.

[0027] The first light-projecting unit 11 projects light onto the first region 10e to display a first position indicator 11a indicating the first landing position with light in the first region 10e. The first light-projecting unit 11 alternates between an on state in which it projects light onto the first region 10e and an off state in which it stops projecting light. This causes the first position indicator 11a to alternately flash (display and non-display).

[0028] The second light-projecting unit 12 projects light onto the second region 10f to display a second position indicator 12a indicating the second riding position with light in the second region 10f. The second light-projecting unit 12 alternates between an on state in which it projects light onto the second region 10f and an off state in which it stops projecting light. As a result, the second position indicator 12a alternates between flashing (displaying and not displaying).

[0029] In this way, the first position indicator 11a and the second position indicator 12a do not simply remain lit but each repeatedly flash (display and non-display), so that the person X1 attempting to get on the tread portion 10 will pay attention to the first position indicator 11a and the second position indicator 12a. This encourages the person X1 attempting to get on the tread portion 10 to get on either the first region 10e where the first position indicator 11a is displayed or the second region 10f where the second position indicator 12a is displayed. This prevents the person X1 from getting on only one side region 10e (10f) of the tread portion 10 in the width direction D1.

[0030] The first position indicator 11a repeatedly flashes (displays and disappears) in the same shape, and the second position indicator 12a repeatedly flashes (displays and disappears) in the same shape. The shape of the first position indicator 11a is the same as the shape of the second position indicator 12a.

[0031] This encourages the person X1 who intends to stand on the tread portion 10 to stand in both the first region 10e where the first position indicator 11a is displayed and the second region 10f where the second position indicator 12a is displayed. This further prevents the person X1 from standing on one side region 10e (10f) of the tread portion 10 in the width direction D1.

[0032] In addition, "position indications 11a, 12a have the same shape" does not only mean a configuration in which they have exactly the same shape, but also includes a configuration in which the shape of the light projected by light-projecting units 11, 12 is the same and is approximately the same shape deformed by the uneven shape of the surface of tread unit 10.

[0033] The shapes of the first position indicator 11a and the second position indicator 12a are not particularly limited. For example, the shapes of the first position indicator 11a and the second position indicator 12a may be round (e.g., perfect circle, ellipse, etc.) as in the present embodiment, or may be polygonal or foot-shaped.

[0034] Furthermore, the first light-projecting unit 11 is disposed on the balustrade 4 on one side in the width direction D1 (the right side in FIGS. 3 and 4), and the second light-projecting unit 12 is disposed on the balustrade 4 on the other side in the width direction D1 (the left side in FIGS. 3 and 4). Each of the light-projecting units 11, 12 may be disposed inside the balustrade 4 (for example, the cover portion 4c) as in this embodiment, for example.

[0035] Each of the light-projecting units 11, 12 projects light outward in the front-rear direction D2 (upstream, downward in FIGS. 3 and 4). This prevents the person X1 from blocking the light projected from the light-projecting units 11, 12 with his or her legs when the person X1 attempts to stand on the position indicators 11a, 12a. Therefore, for example, the position indicators 11a, 12a can be displayed on the tread portion 10 until immediately before the person X1 stands on the position indicators 11a, 12a.

[0036] Furthermore, the floor plate 9 may, for example, as in this embodiment, have a plate portion 9a and a comb portion 9b that is arranged at the inner end (downstream end) in the fore-and-aft direction D2 and engages with the uneven shape formed on the surface of the tread portion 10.

[0037] As shown in Figure 5, the people conveyor 1 may include, for example, an input unit 13 to which various information is input, and an output unit 14 that outputs various information. Although not particularly limited, the input unit 13 may be, for example, a switch (push button switch, select switch, etc.), a touch panel, etc. Furthermore, although not particularly limited, the output unit 14 may be, for example, a display unit that displays information (for example, an electronic bulletin board, an indicator light), a sound generation unit that emits information as sound (for example, a buzzer, a speaker), a signal output unit that outputs a signal to the outside (for example, a central monitoring panel, etc.), etc.

[0038] The passenger conveyor 1 is also equipped with a position detection unit 15 that detects the position of the step 8. The position detection unit 15 is not particularly limited as long as it is configured to detect the position of the step 8. For example, the position detection unit 15 may be a sensor (e.g., a photoelectric sensor, a contact sensor, etc.) that is fixed to the structure 2 or the balustrade 4 and detects a specific position of the step 8 (e.g., step roller 8b). Alternatively, for example, the position detection unit 15 may be a camera that is disposed above the step 8 and captures an image of the step 8.

[0039] The processing unit 6 may include, for example, an acquisition unit 6a that acquires each piece of information (data) from each unit 13, 15, a storage unit 6b that stores each piece of information, a calculation unit 6c that calculates each piece of information, and a control unit 6d that controls each unit 5, 11, 12, 14. The processing unit 6 may also be a computer that includes, for example, a processor such as a CPU and an MPU (for example, the calculation unit 6c, the control unit 6d), memories such as a ROM and a RAM (for example, the acquisition unit 6a, the storage unit 6b), various interfaces, etc.

[0040] As a result, the processor executes the program stored in the memory, and the software and hardware work together to realize the units 6a to 6d of the processing unit 6. The processing unit 6 may be configured, for example, by a software circuit, or may be configured, for example, by a hardware circuit, or may be configured, for example, by a combination of a software circuit and a hardware circuit.

[0041] The processing unit 6 may be configured as a single device, or may be configured as multiple devices that can communicate with each other. Specifically, the units 6a to 6d of the processing unit 6 may be provided in a single device, or may be distributed across multiple devices that can communicate with each other.

[0042] The configuration of the passenger conveyor 1 according to this embodiment has been described above, and next, the position display method for the passenger conveyor 1 according to this embodiment will be explained with reference to Figures 6 and 7. Note that the following method is provided as an example to help understand the position display method for the passenger conveyor 1, and is not intended to limit the position display method for the passenger conveyor 1.

[0043] 6 and 7, the light projecting units 11 and 12 project light toward the same position on the floor plate 9. As a result, the position indicators 11a and 12a are displayed at the same position on the floor plate 9.

[0044] The position indicators 11a, 12a are displayed at a distance inward (downstream) in the front-rear direction D2 from the floor plate 9. This prevents the feet of the person X1 from straddling the floor plate 9 and the tread portion 10 when the person X1 stands on the position indicators 11a, 12a.

[0045] Furthermore, since each position indicator 11a, 12a is spaced apart from the first boundary portions 10b, 10b of the tread portion 10, when person X1 stands on the position indicators 11a, 12a, the person's feet can be prevented from standing on the first boundary portions 10b, 10b of the tread portion 10.

[0046] 6 and 7 (specifically, FIGS. 6(b) and 7(a)), the position indicators 11a and 12a shown in solid lines indicate that they are in a displayed state, i.e., that the light-projecting units 11 and 12 are in a lit state. Also, in FIGS. 6 and 7 (specifically, FIGS. 6(a) and 7(b)), the position indicators 11a and 12a shown in chain double-dashed lines indicate that they are not displayed (non-display state), i.e., that the light-projecting units 11 and 12 are in an unlit state.

[0047] Each of the light projecting units 11 and 12 alternates between an on state and an off state based on the detection of the position detecting unit 15 (see FIG. 5). As a result, the light projecting units 11 and 12 alternate between an on state and an off state depending on the position of step 8. Therefore, the position indicators 11a and 12a alternate between flashing (on and off) depending on the position of step 8.

[0048] 6(a), when the first step 8X near the landing 1a is located at a predetermined position, the light-projecting units 11, 12 are in an off state. As a result, the position indicators 11a, 12a are in a non-display state, and therefore the position indicators 11a, 12a are not displayed so as to contact the outer edge of the tread portion 10 of the first step 8X or the second and third boundary portions 10c, 10d.

[0049] Thereafter, the step 8 near the landing 1a moves inward in the front-to-rear direction D2 (downstream, or upward in FIG. 6), and when the first step 8X reaches a predetermined position as shown in FIG. 6(b), the light-projecting units 11, 12 are turned on. As a result, the position indicators 11a, 12a are turned on and are displayed away from the outer edge of the tread portion 10 of the first step 8X and the boundaries 10b to 10d of the tread portion 10.

[0050] Thereafter, the step 8 near the landing 1a moves inward in the front-to-rear direction D2 (downstream, or upward in Figs. 6 and 7), and the light-projecting units 11, 12 continue to be lit until the first step 8X reaches a predetermined position, as shown in Fig. 7(a). As a result, the position indicators 11a, 12a continue to be displayed, and continue to be displayed away from the outer edge of the tread portion 10 of the first step 8X and the boundaries 10b to 10d of the tread portion 10.

[0051] Thereafter, when the step 8 near the landing 1a moves inward in the front-rear direction D2 (downstream, or upward in FIG. 7), and the first step 8X is positioned at a predetermined position, the light-projecting units 11, 12 are turned off. As a result, as shown in FIG. 7(b), the position indicators 11a, 12a are turned off and are not displayed so as to contact the outer edge of the tread portion 10 of the first step 8X or the second and third boundary portions 10c, 10d.

[0052] Thereafter, the step 8 near the landing 1a travels toward the inside in the front-rear direction D2 (downstream, or upward in FIGS. 6 and 7). Then, when the next second step 8Y passes through the position of the first step 8X in FIG. 6(a) and then reaches the position of the first step 8X in FIG. 6(b), the light-projecting units 11 and 12 are turned on.

[0053] As a result, each of the light-projecting units 11, 12 alternates between an on state and an off state depending on the position of the step 8, and each of the position indicators 11a, 12a alternates between an on state and an off state depending on the position of the step 8. Then, each of the position indicators 11a, 12a enters an on state and is displayed away from the outer edge of the tread portion 10 of the second step 8Y and the boundaries 10b to 10d of the tread portion 10.

[0054] In this way, since the position indicators 11a, 12a are displayed away from the outer edge of the tread portion 10, when the person X1 stands on the position indicators 11a, 12a, it is possible to prevent the person X1 from placing his / her feet across the two tread portions 10, 10. Moreover, since the position indicators 11a, 12a are displayed away from the boundary portions 10b to 10d of the tread portion 10, it is possible to prevent the person X1 from placing his / her feet on the boundary portions 10b to 10d of the tread portion 10 when he / she stands on the position indicators 11a, 12a.

[0055] 6(b) and 7(a), when the first light-projecting unit 11 is in the on state, the second light-projecting unit 12 is in the on state, and when the first light-projecting unit 11 is in the off state, the second light-projecting unit 12 is in the off state, as shown in FIGS. 6(a) and 7(b). As a result, when the first position indication 11a is in the on state, the second position indication 12a is in the on state, and when the first position indication 11a is in the non-on state, the second position indication 12a is in the non-on state.

[0056] Therefore, the person X1 who intends to stand on the tread portion 10 can be encouraged to stand in both the first region 10e where the first position indicator 11a is displayed and the second region 10f where the second position indicator 12a is displayed. As a result, the person X1 can be further prevented from standing on one side region 10e (10f) of the tread portion 10 in the width direction D1.

[0057] 6(b), when the step 8 on which the position indicators 11a, 12a are displayed is partially covered by the floor plate 9, the light-projecting units 11, 12 change from an off state to an on state. As a result, the position indicators 11a, 12a are displayed on the step 8 in a position partially covered by the floor plate 9. Therefore, since the display positions of the position indicators 11a, 12a are in the vicinity of the floor plate 9, a person X1, for example, can easily stand on the position indicators 11a, 12a.

[0058] There is no particular limitation on the timing at which each of the light-projecting units 11 and 12 changes from the on state to the off state. The timing at which each of the light-projecting units 11 and 12 changes from the on state to the off state may be, for example, as in the present embodiment, when the step 8 on which the position indicators 11a and 12a are displayed moves away from the floor plate 9 (specifically, between FIGS. 7(a) and 7(b)), or may be when a part of the step 8 on which the position indicators 11a and 12a are displayed is still covered by the floor plate 9.

[0059] [1] As described above, the passenger conveyor 1, as in this embodiment, a plurality of steps 8 each having a tread portion 10 on which a person X1 stands; a first light-projecting unit 11 that projects light onto a first region 10e on one side of the tread portion 10 in the width direction D1 to display a first position indicator 11a indicating a first riding position with light in the first region 10e; a second light-emitting unit 12 that projects light onto a second region 10f on the other side of the tread portion 10 in the width direction D1 to display a second position indicator 12a indicating a second riding position with light in the second region 10f, the first light-projecting unit 11 alternates between a lighting state in which it projects light onto the first region 10e and a lighting-off state in which it stops projecting light, so that the first position indication 11a repeatedly flashes in the same pattern; the second light-projecting unit 12 alternates between a lighting state in which it projects light onto the second region 10f and a lighting-off state in which it stops projecting light, so that the second position indication 12a repeatedly flashes in the same pattern; This configuration is preferred.

[0060] With this configuration, the first light-projecting unit 11 alternates between an on state in which it projects light onto the first region 10e of the tread portion 10 and an off state in which it stops projecting light, and the second light-projecting unit 12 alternates between an on state in which it projects light onto the second region 10f of the tread portion 10 and an off state in which it stops projecting light. As a result, the first position indicator 11a repeatedly flashes in the same pattern in the first region 10e, and the second position indicator 12a repeatedly flashes in the same pattern in the second region 10f.

[0061] Then, because the first position indicator 11a and the second position indicator 12a each repeatedly flash, a person X1 attempting to get on the tread portion 10 will pay attention to the first position indicator 11a and the second position indicator 12a. This encourages the person X1 attempting to get on the tread portion 10 to get on either the first region 10e where the first position indicator 11a is displayed or the second region 10f where the second position indicator 12a is displayed. This prevents the person X1 from getting on the tread portion 10 in a biased manner to one side region 10e (10f) in the width direction D1.

[0062] [2] In addition, in the passenger conveyor 1 described above in [1], as in this embodiment, The shape of the first position indicator 11a is the same as the shape of the second position indicator 12a. This configuration is preferred.

[0063] With this configuration, since the shape of the first position indicator 11a is the same as the shape of the second position indicator 12a, the person X1 who intends to stand on the tread portion 10 can be encouraged to stand in both the first area 10e where the first position indicator 11a is displayed and the second area 10f where the second position indicator 12a is displayed. This further prevents the person X1 from standing biasedly on one side area 10e (10f) of the tread portion 10 in the width direction D1.

[0064] [3] In addition, the passenger conveyor 1 of the above [1] or [2], as in this embodiment, A floor plate 9 that constitutes the floor of the landing 1a; a position detection unit (15) for detecting the position of the step (8), the first light-projecting unit 11 projects light toward the same position on the floor plate 9 so that the first position indicator 11a is displayed away from the floor plate 9, and repeats the on state and the off state based on the detection of the position detection unit 15 so that the first position indicator 11a is displayed away from the outer edge of the tread portion 10; the second light-projecting unit 12 projects light toward the same position on the floor plate 9 so that the second position indicator 12a is displayed away from the floor plate 9, and repeats the on state and the off state based on the detection of the position detection unit 15 so that the second position indicator 12a is displayed away from the outer edge of the tread portion 10; This configuration is preferred.

[0065] With this configuration, since each of the light-projecting units 11, 12 projects light toward the same position on the floor plate 9, each of the displayed position indicators 11a, 12a is spaced apart from the floor plate 9. Furthermore, since each of the light-projecting units 11, 12 alternately turns on and off based on detection by the position detection unit 15, each of the displayed position indicators 11a, 12a is spaced apart from the outer edge of the tread portion 10. This makes it possible to prevent person X1 from straddling the floor plate 9 and the tread portion 10 or straddling the two tread portions 10, 10 when he or she stands on the position indicators 11a, 12a.

[0066] [4] In addition, in the passenger conveyor 1 described above in [3], as in this embodiment, The tread portion 10 is a base portion 10a for a person X1 to ride on; and boundary portions 10b to 10d, which are arranged at the end portions and have a color different from the color of the base portion 10a. the first light-projecting unit 11 repeats the on state and the off state based on the detection of the position detecting unit 15 so that the first position indication 11a is displayed away from the boundaries 10b to 10d; The second light-projecting unit 12 repeats the on state and the off state based on the detection of the position detecting unit 15 so that the second position indication 12a is displayed away from the boundaries 10b to 10d. This configuration is preferred.

[0067] With this configuration, each of the light-projecting units 11, 12 alternates between an on state and an off state based on the detection of the position detection unit 15, so that each of the displayed position indicators 11a, 12a is spaced apart from the boundaries 10b to 10d of the tread portion 10. This prevents the person X1 from stepping on the boundaries 10b to 10d of the tread portion 10 when he or she steps on the position indicators 11a, 12a.

[0068] [5] In addition, in any one of the passenger conveyors 1 described above in [1] to [4], as in this embodiment, the first light-projecting unit 11 changes from the unlit state to the lit state when a part of the step 8 that displays the first position indication 11a is covered by the floor plate 9; The second light-projecting unit 12 changes from the unlit state to the lit state when a part of the step 8 that displays the second position indication 12a is covered by the floor plate 9. This configuration is preferred.

[0069] With this configuration, when a part of the step 8 on which the position indicators 11a, 12a are displayed is covered by the floor plate 9, the light-projecting units 11, 12 change from an off state to an on state, so that the position indicators 11a, 12a are displayed on the step 8 that is partially covered by the floor plate 9. As a result, the display positions of the position indicators 11a, 12a are in the vicinity of the floor plate 9.

[0070] [6] In addition, the passenger conveyor 1 described in [5] above, as in this embodiment, The balustrade portion 4 is disposed on the outer side of the step 8 in the width direction D1, The first light-projecting unit 11 is disposed on the balustrade unit 4 and projects light outward in the front-to-rear direction. The second light-emitting unit 12 is disposed on the balustrade 4 and emits light outward in the front-to-rear direction. This configuration is preferred.

[0071] According to this configuration, each light-projecting unit 11, 12 projects light from the parapet unit 4 outward in the forward-backward direction D2, so that when person X1 tries to stand on the position display 11a, 12a, the person X1 can be prevented from blocking the light projected from the light-projecting units 11, 12 with his or her own legs.

[0072] [7] In addition, the passenger conveyor 1 described in any one of the above items [1] to [6], as in this embodiment, The first light-projecting unit 11 is in a light-on state when the second light-projecting unit 12 is in the light-on state, and is in a light-off state when the second light-projecting unit 12 is in the light-off state. This configuration is preferred.

[0073] With this configuration, the on and off states of the first light-projecting unit 11 are the same as the on and off states of the second light-projecting unit 12, and therefore the on and off states of the first position indicator 11a are the same as the on and off states of the second position indicator 12a. This encourages a person X1 attempting to stand on the tread portion 10 to stand in both the first region 10e where the first position indicator 11a is displayed and the second region 10f where the second position indicator 12a is displayed. This further prevents the person X1 from standing on one side region 10e (10f) of the tread portion 10 in the width direction D1.

[0074] The passenger conveyor 1 is not limited to the configuration of the above-described embodiment, nor is it limited to the above-described effects. Furthermore, various modifications can be made to the passenger conveyor 1 without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For example, it is possible to select one or more of the configurations and methods of the various modified examples described below and adopt them in the configurations and methods of the above-described embodiment.

[0075] (A) In the passenger conveyor 1 according to the above embodiment, the shape of the first position indicator 11a is the same as the shape of the second position indicator 12a. However, the passenger conveyor 1 is not limited to this configuration. For example, the shape of the first position indicator 11a may be different from the shape of the second position indicator 12a.

[0076] (B) Furthermore, in the passenger conveyor 1 according to the above embodiment, the first light-projecting unit 11 and the second light-projecting unit 12 are each configured to alternate between an on state and an off state based on detection by the position detection unit 15. However, the passenger conveyor 1 is not limited to this configuration.

[0077] For example, at least one (both or either one) of the first light-projecting unit 11 and the second light-projecting unit 12 may be configured to alternate between an on state and an off state based on the set time stored in the memory unit 6 b. Although not particularly limited to this configuration, for example, a first set time and a second set time may be input to the input unit 13, and at least one (both or either one) of the first light-projecting unit 11 and the second light-projecting unit 12 may alternate between an on state that continues for the first set time and an off state that continues for the second set time.

[0078] (C) Furthermore, in the passenger conveyor 1 according to the above embodiment, the first light-projecting unit 11 and the second light-projecting unit 12 are each configured to project light so that the position indicators 11a, 12a are displayed away from the floor plate 9. However, the passenger conveyor 1 is not limited to this configuration. For example, at least one (either one or both) of the first light-projecting unit 11 and the second light-projecting unit 12 may be configured to project light so that the position indicators 11a, 12a are displayed in contact with the floor plate 9.

[0079] (D) Furthermore, in the passenger conveyor 1 according to the above embodiment, the first light-projecting unit 11 and the second light-projecting unit 12 are each configured to project light toward the same position on the floor plate 9 of the landing 1a. However, the passenger conveyor 1 is not limited to this configuration. Furthermore, for example, at least one (either one or both) of the first light-projecting unit 11 and the second light-projecting unit 12 may be configured to project light so as to move relative to the floor plate 9.

[0080] (D-1) An example of such a configuration is not particularly limited, but may be a configuration in which light-projecting units 11, 12 project light while rotating around an axis in the up-down direction D3, causing position indicators 11a, 12a to move downstream (inward in the front-to-back direction D2) relative to the floor plate 9 of hall 1a. Note that in such a configuration, "position indicators 11a, 12a have the same shape" does not only mean a configuration in which they have exactly the same shape, but also includes, for example, a configuration in which the shapes of the light projected by light-projecting units 11, 12 are the same and are approximately the same shape that has deformed as the positions of position indicators 11a, 12a relative to light-projecting units 11, 12 change.

[0081] (D-2) As another example of such a configuration, for example, light-projecting units 11, 12 may be provided with a plurality of light sources arranged in the fore-and-aft direction D2, and the plurality of light sources may project light in sequence from the upstream side (outside in the fore-and-aft direction D2), causing position indicators 11a, 12a to move downstream (inside in the fore-and-aft direction D2) relative to floor plate 9 of hall 1a.

[0082] (E) Furthermore, in the passenger conveyor 1 according to the above embodiment, the first light-projecting unit 11 is configured to alternate between an on state and an off state based on the detection of the position detection unit 15 so that the first position indicator 11a is displayed away from the outer edge of the tread portion 10. However, the passenger conveyor 1 is not limited to this configuration. For example, at least one (either one or both) of the first light-projecting unit 11 and the second light-projecting unit 12 may be configured to be on so that the position indicators 11a, 12a are displayed in contact with the outer edge of the tread portion 10.

[0083] (F) Furthermore, in the passenger conveyor 1 according to the above embodiment, the first light-projecting unit 11 is configured to alternate between an on state and an off state based on the detection of the position detection unit 15 so that the first position indicator 11a is displayed away from the boundaries 10b to 10d of the tread portion 10. However, the passenger conveyor 1 is not limited to this configuration. For example, at least one (either one or both) of the first light-projecting unit 11 and the second light-projecting unit 12 may be configured to be on state so that the position indicators 11a, 12a are displayed in contact with the boundaries 10b to 10d of the tread portion 10.

[0084] (G) In addition, in the passenger conveyor 1 according to the above embodiment, the tread portion 10 is configured to include a base portion 10a on which person X1 stands, and first to third boundary portions 10b to 10d that are located at the ends and have a color different from that of the base portion 10a. However, the passenger conveyor 1 is not limited to this configuration.

[0085] The tread portion 10 may be configured, for example, to have only one 10b (10c, 10d) of the first to third boundary portions 10b to 10d, or may be configured, for example, to have only two 10b, 10c (10c, 10d; 10d, 10b) of the first to third boundary portions 10b to 10d.

[0086] Furthermore, for example, the tread portion 10 may be configured without boundary portions 10b to 10d. In such a configuration, although not particularly limited, for example, the end portion of the tread portion 10 and its adjacent portion may be configured to be the same color, or for example, the entire tread portion 10 may be configured to be the same color.

[0087] (H) Furthermore, in the passenger conveyor 1 according to the above embodiment, the first light-projecting unit 11 and the second light-projecting unit 12 are configured to change from an off state to an on state when a part of the step 8 displaying the position indicators 11a, 12a is covered by the floor plate 9 of the landing 1a. However, the passenger conveyor 1 is not limited to this configuration.

[0088] For example, at least one (both or either one) of the first light-projecting unit 11 and the second light-projecting unit 12 may be configured to change from an off state to an on state when a portion of the step 8 on which the position indications 11a, 12a are displayed is away from the floor plate 9. Although not particularly limited to this configuration, for example, at least one (both or either one) of the first light-projecting unit 11 and the second light-projecting unit 12 may be configured to change from an off state to an on state when a portion of the second step 8Y adjacent to the upstream side (outside in the front-rear direction D2) of the first step 8X on which the position indications 11a, 12a are displayed is covered by the floor plate 9 of the landing 1a. According to this configuration, the first step 8X on which the position indications 11a, 12a are displayed is the second step 8 from the floor plate 9 of the landing 1a.

[0089] (I) Furthermore, in the passenger conveyor 1 according to the above embodiment, the first light-projecting unit 11 is arranged on one of the balustrades 4, and the second light-projecting unit 12 is arranged on the other balustrade 4. However, the passenger conveyor 1 is not limited to this configuration.

[0090] For example, the first light-projecting unit 11 and the second light-projecting unit 12 may be configured to be arranged on the same balustrade unit 4. Also, for example, at least one (both or either one) of the first light-projecting unit 11 and the second light-projecting unit 12 may be configured to be arranged in a position away from the balustrade unit 4 (for example, on the ceiling of a building, etc.).

[0091] (J) In addition, in the passenger conveyor 1 according to the above embodiment, the first light-projecting unit 11 and the second light-projecting unit 12 are each arranged on the parapet 4 and are configured to project light outward (upstream) in the front-to-rear direction D2. However, the passenger conveyor 1 is not limited to this configuration.

[0092] For example, at least one (both or either one) of the first light-projecting unit 11 and the second light-projecting unit 12 may be arranged on the balustrade 4 and may project light inward (downstream) in the front-to-rear direction D2. Also, for example, at least one (both or either one) of the first light-projecting unit 11 and the second light-projecting unit 12 may be arranged on the balustrade 4 and may project light in a direction parallel to the width direction D1.

[0093] (K) Furthermore, in the passenger conveyor 1 according to the above embodiment, the first light-projecting unit 11 is in an on state when the second light-projecting unit 12 is in an on state, and is in an off state when the second light-projecting unit 12 is in an off state. However, the passenger conveyor 1 is not limited to this configuration.

[0094] For example, a configuration may be adopted in which there are times when the on and off states of first light-projecting unit 11 are different from the on and off states of second light-projecting unit 12. For example, a configuration may be adopted in which there is a time when first light-projecting unit 11 is in an off state when second light-projecting unit 12 is in an on state, or a configuration may be adopted in which there is a time when first light-projecting unit 11 is in an on state when second light-projecting unit 12 is in an off state.

[0095] (L) Furthermore, in the passenger conveyor 1 according to the above embodiment, the first light-projecting unit 11 and the second light-projecting unit 12 are configured to be separate (i.e., separate devices). However, the passenger conveyor 1 is not limited to this configuration. For example, the first light-projecting unit 11 and the second light-projecting unit 12 may be configured to be integrated (i.e., the same device).

[0096] (M) Furthermore, for example, the passenger conveyor 1 may be configured such that not only the first platform 1a located below, but also the second platform 1b located above, are provided with the first light-projecting unit 11 and the second light-projecting unit 12 similar to those of the above embodiment. The passenger conveyor 1 may also be configured to have a travel detection unit that detects the travel direction of the steps 8, and based on detection by the travel detection unit, only the light-projecting units 11, 12 located at the platform 1a(1b) that becomes the platform 1a(1b) may be configured to repeatedly turn on and off.

[0097] (N) For example, the order of execution of each step, such as the operations, procedures, steps, and stages, in the methods and apparatuses shown in the claims, specifications, and drawings, can be implemented in any order, as long as the result of a previous step is not used in a subsequent step. For example, even if a description is made using "first," "next," etc. for convenience, it does not mean that execution is required in that order. [Explanation of symbols]

[0098] 1...people conveyor, 1a...boarding and alighting area (landing area), 1b...boarding and alighting area (disembarking area), 1c...center, 2...structure, 2a...first machine room, 2b...second machine room, 3...conveying section, 3a...connecting shaft, 4...balustrade section, 4a...handrail belt, 4b...balustrade main body section, 4c...cover section, 5...driving section, 5a...rotating section, 5b...support section, 5c...driving source, 5d...braking section, 6...processing section, 6a...acquisition section, 6b...storage section, 6c...calculation section, 6d...control section, 7...traveling section, 8...step, 8a...step main body, 8b...step roller, 8c...riser section, 8d ...Axis support portion, 8X...First step, 8Y...Second step, 9...Floor plate, 9a...Plate portion, 9b...Com portion, 10...Tread portion, 10a...Base portion, 10b...First boundary portion, 10c...Second boundary portion, 10d...Third boundary portion, 10e...First area, 10f...Second area, 11...First light-emitting portion, 11a...First position display, 12...Second light-emitting portion, 12a...Second position display, 13...Input portion, 14...Output portion, 15...Position detection portion, D1...Width direction (first horizontal direction), D2...Fore-and-aft direction (second horizontal direction), D3...Up-and-down direction, X1...Human

Claims

1. a plurality of steps each having a tread portion on which a person stands; a first light-projecting unit that projects light onto a first region on one side of the tread portion in the width direction to display a first position indicator that indicates a first riding position with light in the first region; a second light-emitting unit that projects light onto a second region on the other side of the tread portion in the width direction to display a second position indicator that indicates a second riding position with light in the second region, the first light-projecting unit repeats an on state in which it projects light onto the first area and an off state in which it stops projecting light so that the first position indication repeatedly flashes in the same shape; The second light-projecting unit alternates between a lighting state in which it projects light onto the second area and a lighting-off state in which it stops projecting light, so that the second position indication repeatedly flashes in the same pattern. A floor plate that forms the floor of the landing is provided, The first position indication is displayed only at the same position relative to the floor plate, The second position indication is displayed only at the same position relative to the floor plate, A people conveyor, wherein the first light-projecting unit is in a lighted state when the second light-projecting unit is in the lighted state, and is in an unlighted state when the second light-projecting unit is in the unlighted state.

2. A plurality of steps each having a tread portion on which a person stands; a first light-projecting unit that projects light onto a first region on one side of the tread portion in the width direction to display a first position indicator that indicates a first riding position with light in the first region; a second light-emitting unit that projects light onto a second region on the other side of the tread portion in the width direction to display a second position indicator that indicates a second riding position with light in the second region, the first light-projecting unit repeats an on state in which it projects light onto the first area and an off state in which it stops projecting light so that the first position indication repeatedly flashes in the same shape; The second light-projecting unit alternates between a lighting state in which it projects light onto the second area and a lighting-off state in which it stops projecting light, so that the second position indication repeatedly flashes in the same pattern. A floor plate that forms the floor of the landing is provided, the first light-projecting unit changes from the unlit state to the lit state when a part of the step that displays the first position indication is covered by the floor plate, The second light-projecting unit changes from the off state to the on state when a portion of the step that displays the second position indication is covered by the floor plate.

3. A balustrade portion is provided that is disposed on the outer side of the step in the width direction, The first light-projecting unit is disposed on the balustrade and projects light outward in the front-to-rear direction, 3. The passenger conveyor according to claim 2, wherein the second light-emitting unit is disposed on the parapet and emits light outward in the front-to-rear direction.

4. A passenger conveyor according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the shape of the first position indicator is the same as the shape of the second position indicator.

5. a floor plate constituting the floor of the landing; a position detection unit that detects the position of the step, the first light-projecting unit projects light toward the same position on the floor plate so that the first position indication is displayed away from the floor plate, and repeats the on state and the off state based on detection by the position detection unit so that the first position indication is displayed away from the outer edge of the tread portion; A passenger conveyor as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the second light-projecting unit projects light toward the same position on the floor plate so that the second position indication is displayed away from the floor plate, and repeats the on state and the off state based on detection by the position detection unit so that the second position indication is displayed away from the outer edge of the tread portion.

6. The tread portion is A base for people to ride on, a border portion disposed at an end portion and having a color different from the color of the base portion; the first light-projecting unit repeats the on state and the off state based on the detection by the position detecting unit so that the first position indication is displayed away from the boundary portion; 6. The passenger conveyor according to claim 5, wherein the second light projecting unit alternates between the on state and the off state based on detection by the position detecting unit so that the second position indication is displayed away from the boundary portion.

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