Object detection device

Abstract

To provide an object detection device which allows the light for detection to pass through well for good object detection operation in the installed state, while avoiding burnout of the optical element due to sunlight during transportation and installation work, etc.SOLUTION: An object detection device that optically detects objects comprises an optical element 13, a light collecting member 12 provided for the optical element 13, and a state-changing mechanism JH capable of changing the state of the space between the optical element 13 and the light collecting member 12 to an open state in which the space is optically opened and a light-reducing state in which the space is optically blocked.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an object detection device that optically detects an object.

Background Art

[0002] As the above object detection device, for example, there is one used for a security sensor or the like that detects an object or a person by receiving infrared rays (infrared light) projected from a projector with a light receiver and outputting a detection signal. In this type of object detection device, in each of the projector and the light receiver, there is one provided with an optical element such as a light emitting element or a light receiving element, and a condenser lens as a condenser member provided for the optical element. In the projector, the light emitted from the light emitting element is condensed by the condenser lens and projected toward the light receiver. In the light receiver, the incident light is condensed by the condenser lens and received by the light receiving element. Therefore, the portion through which the projected light or the incident light passes is formed as a light transmitting portion through which light can pass (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The above object detection device is fixedly installed in a vertical posture that is long in the vertical direction at a predetermined position after being transported. In the installed state, the detection light such as the projected light or the incident light is in a state of traveling horizontally through the light transmitting portion. However, the transportation work and installation work of the object detection device may be performed outdoors, and during the transportation work or installation work, the object detection device may be placed on the loading platform of a transport vehicle or on the ground in a horizontal posture.

[0005] If the object detection device is positioned horizontally, sunlight may enter the light-gathering member or optical element through the light-transmitting section. In this case, the sunlight may be focused by the light-gathering member and then irradiate the optical element, potentially causing it to burn out due to the intense light.

[0006] The object of the present invention is to provide an object detection device that allows detection light to pass through well and perform object detection properly when installed, while also preventing the optical elements from being burned out by sunlight during transportation or installation work. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The characteristic configuration of the object detection device according to the present invention is an object detection device for optically detecting an object, comprising: an optical element; a light-gathering member provided with respect to the optical element; and a state-changing mechanism capable of changing between an open state in which the space between the optical element and the light-gathering member is optically opened and a dimmed state in which the space is optically blocked. The optical unit comprises a light-gathering member, an optical element, and an optical support that integrally supports them, and a housing that covers the outer circumference of the optical unit and has an opening formed in a part of the circumferential direction. The state-changing mechanism supports the optical unit so that its orientation can be changed relative to the housing between a position where the light-gathering member corresponds to the opening and a position where the light-gathering member is not positioned to correspond to the opening. It's at a single point.

[0008] According to the present invention, when the device is installed to perform a detection operation, changing the state change mechanism to the open state optically opens the space between the optical element and the light-collecting member. As a result, the light projected by the optical element reaches the detection target location well via the light-collecting member, and the incident light can be well received by the optical element via the light-collecting member. Furthermore, by changing the state change mechanism to the dimming state, it is possible to avoid sunlight entering the optical element with a large amount of light.

[0009] In this context, "dimming" refers to a state in which the amount of light passing through the space between the optical element and the light-gathering member is reduced from the outside via a light-gathering member, to the point where the optical element is not burned out even when sunlight is incident on it. The dimming rate includes not only cases where the amount of light is simply reduced, but also cases where the dimming rate reaches 100%.

[0010] Therefore, we have been able to provide an object detection device that, in its installed state, allows projected and incident light to pass through well, enabling good object detection operation, while also preventing the optical elements from being burned out by sunlight during transportation and installation work. Furthermore, with this configuration, by changing the position of the optical unit relative to the housing, the light-gathering member can be positioned at a location corresponding to the opening (hereinafter referred to as the corresponding position) and at a location away from the position corresponding to the opening (hereinafter referred to as the off-position). When the optical unit is at the corresponding position, light projected by the optical element and light incident toward the optical element pass through the opening smoothly. On the other hand, when the optical unit is at the off-position, light attempting to incident toward the optical element is prevented from entering through the opening. As a result, while the relative positional relationship between the light-gathering member and the optical element can be maintained by the optical support, it is possible to smoothly switch between an open state in which the space between the optical element and the light-gathering member is optically opened and a dimmed state in which the space is optically blocked. The characteristic configuration of the object detection device according to the present invention is an object detection device for optically detecting an object, comprising: an optical element; a light-gathering member provided with respect to the optical element; a state-changing mechanism capable of changing between an open state in which the space between the optical element and the light-gathering member is optically opened and a dimmed state in which the space is optically blocked; an optical unit having the light-gathering member, the optical element, and an optical support that integrally supports them; and a housing portion covering the outer periphery of the optical unit and having an opening formed in a part in the circumferential direction, wherein the state-changing mechanism supports the housing portion so as to be able to change its orientation relative to the optical unit between a position in which the opening corresponds to the light-gathering member and a position in which the opening is deviated from the position in which it corresponds to the light-gathering member. According to the present invention, when the device is installed to perform detection operations, changing the state change mechanism to the open state optically opens the space between the optical element and the light-gathering member. As a result, the light projected by the optical element reaches the detection target location well via the light-gathering member, and the incident light is well received by the optical element via the light-gathering member. Furthermore, by changing the state change mechanism to the dimming state, it is possible to prevent sunlight from entering the optical element with a large amount of light. The dimming state here refers to a state in which the amount of light passing through the space between the optical element and the light-gathering member from the outside via the light-gathering member is reduced to a level that prevents the optical element from burning out even when sunlight is incident on it. The dimming rate includes not only simply reducing the amount of light, but also cases where the dimming rate is 100%. Therefore, in the installed state, projected and incident light passes through well, allowing for good object detection operation, while at the same time, it is possible to provide an object detection device that can prevent the optical element from burning out due to sunlight during transportation or installation work. Furthermore, with this configuration, by changing the position of the housing portion relative to the optical unit, the opening can be positioned between a position corresponding to the light-gathering member (hereinafter referred to as the corresponding position) and a position deviating from the position corresponding to the light-gathering member (hereinafter referred to as the deviated position). When the housing portion is in the corresponding position, light projected by the optical element and light incident toward the optical element pass through the opening smoothly. On the other hand, when the housing portion is in the deviated position, light attempting to incident toward the optical element is prevented from entering through the opening. As a result, while the relative positional relationship between the light-gathering member and the optical element can be maintained by the optical support, it is possible to smoothly switch between an open state in which the space between the optical element and the light-gathering member is optically opened and a dimmed state in which the space is optically blocked. The characteristic configuration of the object detection device according to the present invention is an object detection device for optically detecting an object, comprising: an optical element; a light-collecting member provided with respect to the optical element; a state-changing mechanism capable of changing between an open state in which the space between the optical element and the light-collecting member is optically opened and a dimmed state in which the space is optically blocked; an actuator capable of switching the state-changing mechanism between the open state and the dimmed state; a power supply state determination unit for determining the state of power supply to the optical element; and a control unit for controlling the operation of the actuator, wherein the control unit controls the operation of the actuator such that when the power supply state determination unit determines that power is supplied to the optical element, the state-changing mechanism switches to the open state, and when the power supply state determination unit determines that power is not supplied to the optical element, the state-changing mechanism switches to the dimmed state. According to the present invention, when the device is installed to perform detection operations, changing the state change mechanism to the open state optically opens the space between the optical element and the light-gathering member. As a result, the light projected by the optical element reaches the detection target location well via the light-gathering member, and the incident light is well received by the optical element via the light-gathering member. Furthermore, by changing the state change mechanism to the dimming state, it is possible to prevent sunlight from entering the optical element with a large amount of light. The dimming state here refers to a state in which the amount of light passing through the space between the optical element and the light-gathering member from the outside via the light-gathering member is reduced to a level that prevents the optical element from burning out even when sunlight is incident on it. The dimming rate includes not only simply reducing the amount of light, but also cases where the dimming rate is 100%. Therefore, in the installed state, projected and incident light passes through well, allowing for good object detection operation, while at the same time, it is possible to provide an object detection device that can prevent the optical element from burning out due to sunlight during transportation or installation work. Furthermore, with this configuration, the state change mechanism can be switched using an actuator, eliminating the hassle of manual switching and making operation easier. Furthermore, with this configuration, when the optical element is installed at the detection target location and power is supplied to it to perform the detection operation, this is detected by the power supply state determination unit, and the control unit automatically switches the state change mechanism to the open state. Then, for example, when transportation or installation work is being carried out, the power supply to the optical element is stopped. In this case, the power supply state determination unit detects that the optical element is not powered, and the control unit automatically switches the state change mechanism to the dimmed state. As a result, when the detection operation is performed, the state change mechanism is always automatically switched to the open state, and when transportation or installation work is being carried out, the state change mechanism is always automatically switched to the dimmed state, so malfunctions due to forgetting to operate it and damage to the optical element can be appropriately avoided. The characteristic configuration of the object detection device according to the present invention is an object detection device for optically detecting an object, comprising: an optical element; a light-gathering member provided with respect to the optical element; a state-changing mechanism capable of changing between an open state in which the space between the optical element and the light-gathering member is optically opened and a dimmed state in which the space is optically blocked; an actuator capable of switching the state-changing mechanism between the open state and the dimmed state; a housing portion housing the light-gathering member and the optical element; a state detection unit that detects whether the housing portion is in an upright state or a fallen state; and a control unit that controls the operation of the actuator, wherein the control unit controls the operation of the actuator such that when the upright state is detected by the state detection unit, the state-changing mechanism switches to the open state, and when the fallen state is detected by the state detection unit, it switches to the dimmed state. According to the present invention, when the device is installed to perform detection operations, changing the state change mechanism to the open state optically opens the space between the optical element and the light-gathering member. As a result, the light projected by the optical element reaches the detection target location well via the light-gathering member, and the incident light is well received by the optical element via the light-gathering member. Furthermore, by changing the state change mechanism to the dimming state, it is possible to prevent sunlight from entering the optical element with a large amount of light. The dimming state here refers to a state in which the amount of light passing through the space between the optical element and the light-gathering member from the outside via the light-gathering member is reduced to a level that prevents the optical element from burning out even when sunlight is incident on it. The dimming rate includes not only simply reducing the amount of light, but also cases where the dimming rate is 100%. Therefore, in the installed state, projected and incident light passes through well, allowing for good object detection operation, while at the same time, it is possible to provide an object detection device that can prevent the optical element from burning out due to sunlight during transportation or installation work. Furthermore, with this configuration, the state change mechanism can be switched using an actuator, eliminating the hassle of manual switching and making operation easier. Furthermore, the object detection device is installed in an upright position with the housing extending vertically to detect objects and people by blocking light. However, during transportation and installation work, the housing is laid down in a reclined position. In this configuration, the state detection unit detects whether the device is in an upright or reclined state. When the upright state is detected, the state change mechanism is automatically switched to the open state by an actuator. Conversely, when the reclined state is detected, the state change mechanism is automatically switched to the dimmed state by an actuator. Therefore, the state change mechanism can always be switched to the appropriate state according to the work situation at the time, allowing for smooth object detection operation in the installed state without requiring cumbersome operation, and preventing the optical elements from being burned out by sunlight during transportation and installation work. The characteristic configuration of the object detection device according to the present invention is an object detection device for optically detecting an object, comprising: an optical element; a light-gathering member provided with respect to the optical element; a state-changing mechanism capable of changing between an open state in which the space between the optical element and the light-gathering member is optically opened and a dimmed state in which the space is optically blocked; and a housing portion that houses the light-gathering member and the optical element, wherein the state-changing mechanism is configured to swing freely between the open state and the dimmed state, and the open state occurs when the housing portion is erected due to weight balance, and the dimmed state occurs when the housing portion is laid down. According to the present invention, when the device is installed to perform detection operations, changing the state change mechanism to the open state optically opens the space between the optical element and the light-gathering member. As a result, the light projected by the optical element reaches the detection target location well via the light-gathering member, and the incident light is well received by the optical element via the light-gathering member. Furthermore, by changing the state change mechanism to the dimming state, it is possible to prevent sunlight from entering the optical element with a large amount of light. The dimming state here refers to a state in which the amount of light passing through the space between the optical element and the light-gathering member from the outside via the light-gathering member is reduced to a level that prevents the optical element from burning out even when sunlight is incident on it. The dimming rate includes not only simply reducing the amount of light, but also cases where the dimming rate is 100%. Therefore, in the installed state, projected and incident light passes through well, allowing for good object detection operation, while at the same time, it is possible to provide an object detection device that can prevent the optical element from burning out due to sunlight during transportation or installation work. The object detection device is installed in an upright position with the housing extending vertically to detect objects or people by blocking light. However, during transportation or installation, the housing is laid down in a reclined position. With this configuration, when the housing is in the upright position, the state change mechanism automatically switches to the open state due to the oscillation caused by the weight balance. Conversely, when the housing is in the reclined state, the oscillation caused by the weight balance automatically switches to the dimmed state. To elaborate, for example, if the center of gravity of the state change mechanism is off-center, it is possible to support it with the heavier part always at the bottom and the lighter part at the top. Even when the housing changes its orientation from upright to reclined, the state change mechanism maintains the same orientation with the heavier part always at the bottom. Therefore, by utilizing this relative change in orientation, it is possible to set the mechanism so that it becomes open when the housing is in the upright position and switches to the dimmed state when the housing is in the reclined position. In this way, the state change mechanism can switch to the appropriate state according to the situation at the time by maintaining the posture through weight balance, and moreover, it does not require special actuators or control configurations, and can be implemented with a simple configuration.

[0011] In the present invention, it is preferable that the state changing mechanism includes an aperture mechanism that can change and adjust the aperture area through which light passes.

[0012] With this configuration, in the installed state, the aperture area created by the diaphragm mechanism is increased, allowing projected and incident light to pass through well. On the other hand, if there is a risk of sunlight entering, the aperture area created by the diaphragm mechanism can be reduced, thereby minimizing the effects of sunlight and preventing the optical elements from burning out.

[0013] When a light receiving element is used as an optical element in the installed state, by changing the aperture area, the amount of incident light can be adjusted, and there are advantages such as sensitivity adjustment becoming possible. Also, when a light emitting element is used as the optical element, by changing the aperture area, the spread angle of the light can be restricted, and there are advantages such as reducing the area where the light blurs in the outer part of the light beam and reducing false detection.

[0014] In the present invention, as the state change mechanism, it is preferable to be provided with a shutter mechanism that can be switched in posture between the open state that allows light to pass through the optical path and the light reduction state that blocks light from passing through the optical path.

[0015] According to this configuration, in the installed state, by switching the shutter mechanism to the open state, the projected light and the incident light pass through well. On the other hand, when there is a risk of sunlight incident, by switching the shutter mechanism to the light reduction state, it is possible to avoid the optical element from burning out by reducing the amount of light incident from sunlight.

[0016] Since the shutter mechanism switches between two states, the open state and the light reduction state, the structure can be simple and the switching operation can be made simple.

[0017] In the present invention, it is preferable that the state change mechanism is located between the optical element and the condensing member in the light reduction state.

[0018] According to this configuration, since the state change mechanism blocks the light beam in a narrow region focused through the condensing member, it can be made compact and the structure becomes simple.

[0019] In the present invention, it is preferable that the state change mechanism covers the condensing member from the outside in the light reduction state. [[ID=​​In configurations where the state-changing mechanism is located between the optical element and the light-gathering member, there is a risk that the relative positional relationship between the light-gathering member and the optical element may not be maintained. In contrast, with this configuration, the state-changing mechanism covers the light-gathering member from the outside, allowing the light-gathering member and the optical element to be supported integrally, thus having the advantage of easily maintaining their relative positional relationship.

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[0029] In the present invention, it is preferable that a manual operation unit is provided that allows the state changing mechanism to be switched between the open state and the dimmed state based on manual operation.

[0030] With this configuration, the state change mechanism can be arbitrarily switched to a state suitable for the current usage situation by manually operating the manual control unit according to the usage situation. Furthermore, if an aperture mechanism is used as the state change mechanism, the light receiving sensitivity can be changed by manually changing and adjusting the aperture area. When a light-emitting element is used as the optical element, manually changing and adjusting the aperture area has advantages such as being able to remove only the region where light is blurred in the outer part of the light beam.

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[0044] [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0045] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view of an object detection device. [Figure 2] This is a perspective view of a floodlight in a tilted position. [Figure 3] This is a schematic diagram of the floodlight configuration. [Figure 4] This is a disassembled perspective view of the aperture mechanism. [Figure 5] This is a diagram illustrating the operation of the aperture mechanism. [Figure 6] This is a control block diagram. [Figure 7] This is a schematic diagram of a floodlight according to another embodiment. [Figure 8] This is a control block diagram of another embodiment. [Figure 9] This is a schematic diagram of a floodlight according to another embodiment. [Figure 10] This is a schematic diagram of a floodlight according to another embodiment. [Figure 11] This is a schematic diagram of a floodlight according to another embodiment. [Figure 12] This is a control block diagram of another embodiment. [Figure 13] This is a schematic diagram of a floodlight according to another embodiment. [Figure 14] This is an explanatory diagram of the operation of another embodiment. [Figure 15] This is an explanatory diagram of the operation of another embodiment. [Figure 16] This is a schematic diagram of a floodlight according to another embodiment. [Figure 17] This is an explanatory diagram of the operation of another embodiment. [Figure 18] This is an explanatory diagram of the operation of another embodiment. [Figure 19] This is a schematic diagram of a floodlight in an open state, representing another embodiment. [Figure 20] This is a schematic diagram of a floodlight in another embodiment in a dimmed state. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0046] Embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, unless otherwise specified, the direction of the arrow UP in the drawings will be considered "up", and the direction of the arrow DW will be considered "down".

[0047] Figure 1 shows an object detection device according to the present invention. This object detection device A functions as a security sensor that detects objects such as a human body or other intruders and outputs an alarm signal. This object detection device A comprises a light emitter 1 that emits infrared light for detection, and a light receiving device 2 that is positioned opposite the light emitter 1 and receives the infrared light emitted from the light emitter.

[0048] The light emitter 1 and light receiver 2 of the object detection device A have a housing case 9 consisting of a sensor cover 7 and a back box section 8. The light emitter 1 has a pair of light emitters 10 arranged vertically. The light receiver 2 has a pair of light receivers 11 arranged vertically.

[0049] Each pair of light emitters 10 is equipped with a light-emitting element 3 (an example of an optical element 13) and a light-emitting lens 4 (an example of a light-collecting member 12), and these are held within a sensor cover 7. Each pair of light receivers 11 is equipped with a light-receiving element 5 (an example of an optical element 13) and a light-receiving lens 6 (an example of a light-collecting member 12), and these are also held within a sensor cover 7. Infrared light IR emitted from the light-emitting element 3 is received by the light-receiving element 5. In the following description, the light-emitting element 3 and the light-receiving element 5 may be collectively referred to as the optical element 13. Also, the light-emitting lens 4 and the light-receiving lens 6 may be collectively referred to as the light-collecting member 12.

[0050] This object detection device A detects objects in a warning zone, which is a linear area connecting the light emitter 1 and the light receiver 2. Specifically, when the infrared IR projected from the light emitter 1 is blocked by an object, the device detects the object by the change in the signal level (amount of light received) of the signal received by the opposing light receiver 2, and outputs an alarm signal. The light emitter 1 and light receiver 2 are mounted on a mounting surface K, such as a pole or wall.

[0051] The sensor cover 7 of the light emitter 1 is capable of transmitting infrared (IR) light emitted from the light emitter 10. The sensor cover 7 of the light receiver 2 is capable of transmitting infrared light so that the infrared (IR) light emitted from the light emitter 1 is incident toward the light receiver 11.

[0052] As described above, the object detection device A detects objects and people by blocking infrared rays between the light emitter 1 and the light receiver 2. To this end, the light emitter 1 and the light receiver 2 are installed in an upright position with their respective storage cases 9 extending vertically.

[0053] On the other hand, when transporting such an object detection device A on a transport vehicle to the installation site, or during the waiting period before installation work is carried out at the installation site, the storage case 9 may be laid down in a sideways position, as shown in Figure 2.

[0054] As shown in Figure 3, the light emitter 10 in the light emitter 1 comprises an optical unit 15 having a light-emitting lens 4, a light-emitting element 3, and an optical support 14 that integrally supports them. The positional relationship between the light-emitting element 3 and the light-emitting lens 4 in the light emitter 10 is substantially the same as the positional relationship between the light-receiving element 5 and the light-receiving lens 6 in the light receiver 11, so the light receiver 11 is not shown in the figure.

[0055] The light-emitting element 3 is fixedly mounted on the printed circuit board 16. The optical support 14 is provided to cover the space between the light-emitting element 3 and the light-emitting lens 4 so that infrared rays emitted from the light-emitting element 3 are guided toward the light-emitting lens 4 without leaking outwards.

[0056] The end of the optical support 14 on the light-emitting element 3 side supports the printed circuit board 16. The end of the optical support 14 on the light-emitting lens 4 side supports the light-emitting lens 4 by surrounding its outer periphery. In this way, the optical support 14 integrally supports the printed circuit board 16 and the light-emitting lens 4, so that the optical unit 15 is configured to maintain a constant optical positional relationship between the light-emitting lens 4 and the light-emitting element 3.

[0057] When the storage case 9 is laid down in a sideways position, as shown in Figure 2, sunlight may enter the light emitter 10 and light receiver 11 through the sensor cover 7 of the storage case 9. If the light-gathering member 12 (light-emitting lens 4, light-receiving lens 6) is positioned on the upper side and the optical elements 13 (light-emitting element 3, light-receiving element 5) is positioned on the lower side, sunlight may be focused through the light-gathering member 12 and then irradiate the optical elements 13, causing the optical elements 13 to receive strong light. In that case, there is a risk that the optical elements 13 may be burned out by the strong light.

[0058] Therefore, in this object detection device, the light-emitting device 1 is equipped with a state-changing mechanism JH that can switch between an open state in which the space between the light-emitting element 3 and the light-emitting lens 4 is optically opened, and a dimmed state in which the space is optically blocked. Similarly, the light-receiving device 2 is equipped with a state-changing mechanism JH that can switch between an open state in which the space between the light-receiving element 5 and the light-receiving lens 6 is optically opened, and a dimmed state in which the space is optically blocked.

[0059] In the following explanation, the state change mechanism JH provided in the light emitter 1 will be described, while the state change mechanism JH provided in the light receiver 2 will not be described.

[0060] In this embodiment, the state changing mechanism JH is provided, which is an aperture mechanism 20 capable of changing and adjusting the aperture area through which light passes. The aperture mechanism 20 is positioned between the light-emitting element 3 and the light-emitting lens 4.

[0061] The light-emitting element 3 is fixedly mounted on the printed circuit board 16. The optical support 14 is provided to cover the space between the light-emitting element 3 and the light-emitting lens 4 so that infrared rays emitted from the light-emitting element 3 are guided toward the light-emitting lens 4 without leaking outwards. The end of the optical support 14 on the light-emitting element 3 side supports the printed circuit board 16. The end of the optical support 14 on the light-emitting lens 4 side supports the light-emitting lens 4 by surrounding its outer periphery. In this way, the optical support 14 integrally supports the printed circuit board 16 and the light-emitting lens 4, so that the optical unit 15 is configured to maintain a constant optical positional relationship between the light-emitting lens 4 and the light-emitting element 3.

[0062] The aperture mechanism 20 has a configuration similar to that of an aperture device used in a typical camera for photography. Specifically, as shown in Figure 4, it comprises a circular support plate 22 with a circular opening 21 formed in the center, a plurality of partition plates 23 supported by the support plate 22 at regular intervals in the circumferential direction, and a rotating operating body 24 which has a circular opening in the center and rotates to pivot the plurality of partition plates 23 in the radial direction. One end of each partition plate 23 is pivotably supported relative to the support plate 22, and a support pin 25 provided at the other end of each partition plate 23 engages with an elongated hole 26 formed in the rotating operating body 24.

[0063] By rotating the rotating operator 24, it is possible to switch between an open state, where the central opening 21 is widely open as shown in Figure 5(a), and a dimmed state, where the central opening 21 is narrowed as shown in Figure 5(b). It is also possible to adjust the opening area as needed by stopping the rotating operator 24 at an intermediate position between the open state and the dimmed state. Furthermore, by changing the shape of the partition plate 23, it is possible to make the central opening area zero (dimming rate 100%) in the dimmed state.

[0064] The rotation of the rotating operating body 24 is operated using an electric motor 27, which is an example of an actuator C. Although the detailed configuration is not shown, the rotating operating body can be switched between the open state and the dimmed state by rotating it using the electric motor 27. The actuator C is not limited to the electric motor 27; various devices such as electric cylinders, air cylinders, and electromagnetic solenoids can be used.

[0065] As shown in Figure 3, a housing portion 28 is provided that houses the light-collecting member 12 and the optical element 13, and has a light-transmitting opening 28a. The housing portion 28 is provided integrally with the storage case 9. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 6, the housing portion 28 (storage case 9) is equipped with a posture detection sensor 29, which acts as a state detection unit to detect whether it is in an upright position or a lying-down position, and a control unit 30 that controls the operation of the electric motor 27.

[0066] The control unit 30 is configured to control the operation of the electric motor 27 such that the aperture mechanism 20 switches to the open state when the upright state is detected by the attitude detection sensor 29, and switches to the dimmed state when the tilted state is detected by the attitude detection sensor 29. The attitude detection sensor 29 can be configured using a well-known 3-axis acceleration sensor. The control unit 30 includes a drive circuit and the like for driving the electric motor 27 based on condition determination.

[0067] Therefore, if the housing 28 (storage case 9) is in a floppy state, the aperture mechanism 20 switches to a dimmed state, and if the housing 28 (storage case 9) is in an upright state, the aperture mechanism 20 switches to an open state. As a result, when the object detection device A is installed in an upright state, the aperture mechanism 20 is in an open state, and the infrared light emitted by the light-emitting element 3 is projected well toward the light-receiving device 2, enabling good object detection operation. On the other hand, when transportation or installation work is being carried out, the aperture mechanism 20 automatically switches to a dimmed state, making it possible to avoid the light-emitting element 3 (optical element 13) being burned out by sunlight.

[0068] We have described the state-changing mechanism JH (aperture mechanism 20) provided in the light-emitting device 1, but in the light-receiving device 2, similar to the light-emitting device 1, the aperture mechanism 20 is provided in a state where it is positioned between the light-receiving element 5 and the light-receiving lens 6.

[0069] [Another embodiment] The following lists other embodiments.

[0070] (1) Instead of operating the aperture mechanism 20 with an actuator, it may be operated manually. When operation is performed manually, as shown in Figures 4 and 5, a portion of the outer circumference of the rotating operating body 24 is extended radially outward to form a manual operating section 24a. This manual operating section 24a is provided so as to be exposed to the outside of the optical support 14 and can be rotated manually from the outside. By operating the manual operating section 24a, it is possible to switch between an open state and a dimmed state. In a configuration where switching is performed manually, when the object detection device A is manufactured and transported to the installation site, the rotating operating body 24 is switched to the dimmed state in advance. Then, when the object detection device A is installed in an upright position, the installation worker can switch the rotating operating body 24 to the open state.

[0071] In this configuration, the opening of the aperture mechanism 20 can be adjusted manually, which can be used to adjust the spread of the light beam emitted from the floodlight 10, thereby reducing the blurred area of ​​faint light around the light beam and thus providing a sensitivity adjustment function.

[0072] (2) The state changing mechanism JH may be configured to include a shutter mechanism 31 that can switch between an open state that allows light to pass through the optical path and a dimmed state that prevents light from passing through the optical path.

[0073] The shutter mechanism 31 is provided in both the light-emitting device 1 and the light-receiving device 2. As shown in Figure 7, similar to the above embodiment, the shutter mechanism 31 is provided in the light-emitting device 1 in a position between the light-emitting element 3 and the light-emitting lens 4. The same applies to the light-receiving device 2.

[0074] The shutter mechanism 31 is configured to be switchable between an open state, which allows infrared light (light) emitted from the light-emitting element 3 to pass through an optical path guided outward through the light-emitting lens 4, and a dimmed state, which prevents infrared light (light) from passing through the optical path.

[0075] As shown in Figure 8, the shutter mechanism 31 includes a single horizontally elongated opening / closing operating body 32. In the open position of the opening / closing operating body 32, an opening 33 is formed to optically open the space between the light-emitting element 3 and the light-emitting lens 4. In the closed position 34 of the opening / closing operating body 32, the plate remains as is, and the space between the light-emitting element 3 and the light-emitting lens 4 can be optically blocked.

[0076] The shutter mechanism 31 includes a slide operation mechanism 35 that slides the opening / closing operation body 32 in the lateral direction. It also includes an electric motor 36 as an actuator to operate the slide operation mechanism 35, a posture detection sensor 37 similar to that in the above embodiment, and a control unit 38 that controls the operation of the electric motor 36.

[0077] If the housing unit 28 (storage case 9) is in an upright position, this is detected by the attitude detection sensor 37, and the control unit 38 controls the operation of the electric motor 36 so as to optically open the space between the light-emitting element 3 and the light-emitting lens 4 through the opening 33 of the opening / closing operating body 32, based on the detection result of the attitude detection sensor 37. On the other hand, if the housing unit 28 (storage case 9) is in a fallen position, this is detected by the attitude detection sensor 37, and the control unit 38 controls the operation of the electric motor 36 so as to optically block the space between the light-emitting element 3 and the light-emitting lens 4 when the closing operating position 34 of the opening / closing operating body 32 is in an upright position.

[0078] (3) The state changing mechanism JH may be configured to cover the light-collecting member 12 (light-emitting lens 4, light-receiving lens 6) from the outside when it is in the dimmed state. For example, as shown in Figure 9, an extension 14a may be formed on the outside of the light-emitting lens 4 from the optical support 14, and the aperture mechanism 20 as a state-changing mechanism JH may be supported by this extension 14a.

[0079] Instead of the aperture mechanism 20, a swing-operated shutter mechanism 41 may be used, as shown in Figure 10. In this shutter mechanism 41, one end of the shielding plate 42 is supported so as to be able to swing with respect to the optical support 14 around the horizontal axis X1, and the shielding plate 42 is supported so as to be able to switch between a light-reducing state in which it covers the outer side of the light-emitting lens 4 and an open state in which it leaves the outer side of the light-emitting lens 4 open.

[0080] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 11, a sliding shutter mechanism 43 may be used instead of the swing-operated shutter mechanism 41. In this sliding shutter mechanism 43, the opening / closing plate 44 may be configured to slide horizontally, or it may be configured to slide vertically.

[0081] The state-changing mechanism JH, which covers the external side, may be configured to be switchable between an open state and a dimmed state using an actuator (electric motor 27, electric cylinder, air cylinder, electromagnetic solenoid, etc.).

[0082] (4) The actuator (electric motor 27, electric cylinder, air cylinder, electromagnetic solenoid, etc.) that switches the state change mechanism JH (aperture mechanism 20, shutter mechanism, etc.) between the open state and the dimmed state may be configured as follows:

[0083] As shown in Figure 12, the system includes a power supply state determination unit 51 that determines the state of power supply from the power supply unit 50 to the optical unit 15 having an optical element 13 (light-emitting element 3, etc.), and a control unit 52 that controls the operation of the actuator C. The control unit 52 is configured to control the operation of the actuator C such that when the power supply state determination unit 51 determines that power is supplied to the optical element 13, the state change mechanism JH switches to the open state, and when the power supply state determination unit 51 determines that no power is supplied to the optical element 13, the state change mechanism JH switches to the dimming state.

[0084] The optical unit 15 (optical element 13) is powered up when the object detection device A is performing detection, that is, when it has been transported to the installation site and is installed in an upright position. At that time, the state change mechanism JH switches to the open state. When the optical unit 15 (optical element 13) is not powered up, it is when the object detection device A is being transported, or in a standby state before installation, etc. At that time, the state change mechanism JH switches to a dimmed state, preventing the optical element 13 from being burned out by sunlight.

[0085] (5) Alternatively, the configuration may be as follows: As shown in Figure 13, the optical unit 15 is provided with a housing portion 61 that covers its outer circumference and has an opening 60 formed in a part of its circumferential direction. The state changing mechanism JH may be configured to support the optical unit 15 with respect to the housing portion 61 so that its orientation can be changed between a position where the light-gathering member 12 corresponds to the opening 60 and a position where the light-gathering member 12 is not in the position corresponding to the opening 60.

[0086] In this embodiment, a substantially cylindrical housing portion 61 made of a non-transparent material is provided as a housing portion that covers the outer circumference of the optical unit 15, and an opening 60 is formed in this housing portion 61 that allows light to pass through to a part of the circumferential direction. The housing portion 61 is supported in a fixed position with respect to a fixing portion on the main body side, such as a storage case 9.

[0087] In contrast, the optical unit 15 is supported so as to be able to rotate relative to the housing 61 around a pivot axis Y along the central axis direction, with the light-gathering member 12, optical element 13, and optical support 14 being integrally supported. The optical unit 15 is rotatably supported on a support shaft 62 fixed to the housing 61 via a bearing 63.

[0088] By rotating the optical unit 15, the orientation of the light-gathering member 12 can be changed from a position corresponding to the opening 60, as shown in Figure 14, to a position away from the position corresponding to the opening 60, as shown in Figure 15. The state shown in Figure 14 is the open state, and the state shown in Figure 15 is the dimmed state.

[0089] The orientation of the optical unit 15 may be changed by driving an actuator C (electric motor 27, electric cylinder, air cylinder, electromagnetic solenoid, etc.) or by manual operation. When using actuator C, various control configurations as described above can be adopted.

[0090] (6) Alternatively, the configuration may be as follows: As shown in Figure 16, the optical unit 15 is provided with a housing portion 71 that covers the outer circumference and has an opening 70 formed in a part of the circumferential direction. The state changing mechanism JH may be configured to support the housing portion 71 so that its orientation can be changed between a position where the opening 70 corresponds to the light-gathering member 12 and a position where the opening 70 is not corresponding to the light-gathering member 12.

[0091] In other words, a substantially cylindrical housing portion 71 made of a non-transparent material is provided as a housing portion covering the outer circumference of the optical unit 15, and an opening 70 that allows light to pass through to a part of the circumferential direction is formed in this housing portion 71, which is the same as in the above embodiment. However, in this embodiment, the housing portion 71 is rotatably supported.

[0092] The optical unit 15 is supported in a fixed position by a support frame 72 on the main body side, such as the storage case 9. In contrast, the housing portion 71 is rotatably supported by a support shaft portion 73 fixed to the main body via a bearing 74.

[0093] By rotating the housing portion 71, the orientation of the light-gathering member 12 can be changed from a position corresponding to the opening 70, as shown in Figure 17, to a position away from the position corresponding to the opening 70, as shown in Figure 18. The state shown in Figure 17 is the open state, and the state shown in Figure 18 is the dimmed state.

[0094] The orientation of the housing section 71 may be changed by driving an actuator C (electric motor 27, electric cylinder, air cylinder, electromagnetic solenoid, etc.) or by manual operation. When using actuator C, various control configurations as described above can be adopted.

[0095] (7) Alternatively, the configuration may be as follows: As shown in Figure 19, a housing portion 80 is provided to house the light-gathering member 12 and the optical element 13. The state-changing mechanism JH is configured to swing freely between an open state and a dimmed state, and may be configured such that, by weight balance, the open state occurs when the housing portion 80 is in an upright position, and the dimmed state occurs when the housing portion 80 is in a reclined position.

[0096] In this embodiment, a housing portion 80 made of a non-transparent material is provided to cover the outer circumference of the optical unit 15, in which the light-gathering member 12, optical element 13, and optical support 14 are integrally supported. An opening 81 is formed in this housing portion 80 that allows light to pass through to a part of the circumferential direction.

[0097] The housing 80 is supported in a fixed position relative to a fixing part on the main body side, such as the storage case 9. The optical unit 15 is supported by the housing 80 so as to be able to swing around the horizontal axis X2, and a weight member 82 is provided connected to the lower side of the optical support 14. As a result of providing the weight member 82, the center of gravity is positioned below the pivot axis. Consequently, the optical unit 15 maintains a posture in which the weight member 82 is always positioned downwards due to weight balance.

[0098] As shown in Figure 19, when the housing 80 (storage case 9) is in an upright position, the position of the housing 80 is set so that the light-gathering member 12 is in a position corresponding to the opening 81. When the housing 80 (storage case 9) is in a fallen position, as shown in Figure 20, the opening 81 moves to a different position as the orientation of the housing 80 (storage case 9) changes, but the optical unit 15 is maintained in an orientation with the weight member 82 on the lower side, so the light-gathering member 12 is in a position away from the position corresponding to the opening 81.

[0099] In this way, the state change mechanism JH utilizes the relative change in posture to switch to an open state when the housing section 80, which is integrally provided with the storage case 9, is in an upright position, and to a dimmed state when the housing section 80 is in a reclined position.

[0100] Alternatively, for example, the optical unit 15 may be supported in a fixed position relative to a fixing part on the main body side such as a storage case 9, and the housing part 80 may be supported relative to the fixing part so as to be able to swing around a lateral axis, and a weight member may be provided connected to the lower side. In this configuration, regardless of the orientation of the storage case 9, the housing section 80 always maintains the same orientation due to weight balance, and the optical unit 15 is integrally provided with the storage case 9. Therefore, when the storage case 9 is upright, it becomes open, and when the storage case 9 is tilted, it switches to a dimmed state. Furthermore, as described above, the configuration is not limited to one that includes a weight member, in which the optical unit 15 or housing unit 80 maintains a downward position due to weight balance. It may also be configured such that the center of gravity of the optical unit 15 or housing unit 80 is located at a position shifted to one side from the pivot axis position.

[0101] In this way, the system can always switch to the appropriate state through free oscillation due to weight balance, eliminating the need for special actuators or control configurations, and allowing for a simple configuration.

[0102] (8) In the above embodiment, the light-collecting member 12 is configured to use a light-transmitting lens 4 and a light-receiving lens 6 as an example, but the light-collecting member 12 is not limited to a light-transmitting lens, but may also use a reflective mirror that concentrates light by reflection and guides it to an optical element.

[0103] (9) In each of the above embodiments, the light emitter 1 and the light receiver 2 are provided with an object detection area in between, but the configuration is not limited to this, and the light emitter 10 and the light receiver 11 are provided in a single storage case 9, and the detection light reflected by the object to be detected is received. [Industrial applicability]

[0104] The present invention can be applied to an object detection device that optically detects objects. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0105] 12 Light-gathering member 13 Optical elements 14 Optical support 15 Optical Unit 20 Aperture mechanism 29, 37 Posture detection sensor (state detection unit) 31, 41 Shutter mechanism 51 Power supply status determination unit 52 Control Unit 60, 70 openings 28, 61, 71, 80 Housing section C Actuator JH Attitude Change Mechanism

Claims

1. An object detection device for optically detecting an object, comprising: an optical element; a condensing member provided for the optical element; a state change mechanism capable of changing the state between an open state in which the space between the optical element and the condensing member is optically opened and a light-shielding state in which the space is optically shielded; an optical unit having the condensing member, the optical element, and an optical support integrally supporting them, and a housing portion covering the outer periphery of the optical unit and having an opening formed in a part of the circumferential direction; The state change mechanism supports the optical unit with respect to the housing portion so that the condensing member can be changed in posture between a position corresponding to the opening and a position deviated from the position corresponding to the opening. The object detection device.

2. An object detection device for optically detecting an object, comprising: an optical element; a condensing member provided for the optical element; a state change mechanism capable of changing the state between an open state in which the space between the optical element and the condensing member is optically opened and a light-shielding state in which the space is optically shielded; an optical unit having the condensing member, the optical element, and an optical support integrally supporting them, and a housing portion covering the outer periphery of the optical unit and having an opening formed in a part of the circumferential direction; The state change mechanism supports the housing portion with respect to the optical unit so that the opening can be changed in posture between a position corresponding to the condensing member and a position deviated from the position corresponding to the condensing member. The object detection device.

3. An object detection device for optically detecting an object, comprising: an optical element; a condensing member provided for the optical element; a state change mechanism capable of changing the state between an open state in which the space between the optical element and the condensing member is optically opened and a light-shielding state in which the space is optically shielded; an actuator capable of switching the state change mechanism between the open state and the light-shielding state; a power state determination unit for determining the energization state of the optical element; a control unit for controlling the operation of the actuator. When the power supply state determination unit determines that power is supplied to the optical element, the control unit controls the actuator so that the state change mechanism switches to the open state, and when the power supply state determination unit determines that power is not supplied to the optical element, the control unit controls the actuator so that the state change mechanism switches to the light shielding state. An object detection device.

4. An object detection device that optically detects an object, An optical element; A condensing member provided for the optical element; A state change mechanism capable of changing the state between an open state in which the space between the optical element and the condensing member is optically opened and a light shielding state in which the space is optically blocked; An actuator capable of switching the state change mechanism between the open state and the light shielding state; A housing unit that houses the condensing member and the optical element; A state detection unit that detects whether the housing unit is in a standing state where it is erected or a lying state where it is laid down; A control unit that controls the operation of the actuator, is provided, When the state detection unit detects the standing state, the control unit controls the actuator so that the state change mechanism switches to the open state, and when the state detection unit detects the lying state, the control unit controls the actuator so that the state change mechanism switches to the light shielding state. An object detection device.

5. An object detection device that optically detects an object, An optical element; A condensing member provided for the optical element; A state change mechanism capable of changing the state between an open state in which the space between the optical element and the condensing member is optically opened and a light shielding state in which the space is optically blocked; A housing unit that houses the condensing member and the optical element is provided, The state change mechanism is configured to be swingable between the open state and the light shielding state, and due to weight balance, when the housing unit is in a standing state where it is erected, it becomes the open state, and when the housing unit is in a lying state where it is laid down, it becomes the light shielding state. An object detection device.

6. The object detection device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising an aperture mechanism capable of changing and adjusting the aperture area through which light passes as the state change mechanism.

7. The object detection device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising a shutter mechanism capable of switching the posture between an open state that allows light to pass through the optical path and a light shielding state that blocks light from passing through the optical path as the state change mechanism.

8. The object detection device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the state change mechanism is located between the optical element and the light condensing member in the light attenuation state.

9. The object detection device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the state change mechanism covers the light condensing member from the outside in the light attenuation state.

10. The object detection device according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a manual operation unit configured to switch the state change mechanism between the open state and the light attenuation state based on a manual operation.

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