Pay attention to the activating device.

Abstract

To provide technology to improve the degree of freedom of installation of an alerting device.SOLUTION: An alerting device includes: a plurality of modules comprising at least one of a detection unit for detecting an object and an alerting unit that generates at least one of a plurality of types of alerting means for alerting a subject, including light and sound; and a connection unit connecting a plurality of modules to each other that connects the plurality of modules to each other in a detachable manner.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

[0004] , , , , , , , , ,

[0005] ,

[0001] The present invention relates to a warning device.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a warning device that warns pedestrians about approaching objects has been known (for example, Patent Documents 1 to 4). Generally, the warning device detects an object that a pedestrian cannot visually recognize and notifies the pedestrian that an object is approaching by light or the like.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Patent Document 3

Patent Document 4

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, the direction in which the sensor for detecting an object is directed and the direction in which the light emitting unit is directed when emitting light toward a pedestrian differ depending on the location where the warning device is installed. Therefore, it is necessary to prepare a warning device in which both the direction in which the sensor is directed and the direction in which the light emitting unit is directed are suitable for the situation of the installation location, and there is a risk that the installation location of the warning device is restricted.

[0005] The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and an object thereof is to provide a technique for improving the degree of freedom in installation in a warning device.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The present invention has been made to solve at least some of the above-mentioned problems and can be realized in the following forms.

[0007] (1) According to one embodiment of the present invention, a warning device is provided that alerts a person to an object approaching. The warning device comprises a plurality of modules, each comprising at least one of a detection unit that detects the object and a warning unit that generates at least one of a plurality of types of warning means for alerting the person, including light and sound, and a connection unit that connects the plurality of modules to each other, wherein the plurality of modules are detachably connected to each other.

[0008] In this configuration, multiple modules, each comprising at least one of a detection unit and a warning unit, are connected by a connector. Since the connector allows for the detachable connection of multiple modules, the combination and order of modules comprising detection units and warning units can be freely changed depending on the location where the warning device is installed. Therefore, the flexibility of installing the warning device can be improved.

[0009] (2) In the above-described warning device, the connecting portion includes a protrusion and a recess provided on each module, and adjacent modules are connected by the fitting of a protrusion provided on one of the adjacent modules with a recess provided on the other of the adjacent module. They may be connected. In this configuration, the connection part includes a protrusion and a recess provided on each module, and adjacent modules are connected by the fitting of the protrusion and recess. This allows adjacent modules to be easily attached and detached, thereby improving the flexibility of the installation of the warning device.

[0010] (3) In the above-described warning device, the convex portion and the concave portion are each formed in a cylindrical shape, and adjacent modules may be connected so as to be rotatable relative to each other. With this configuration, since the convex portion and the concave portion are formed in a cylindrical shape, the orientation of adjacent modules can be changed even after the convex portion and the concave portion are fitted together. Therefore, the orientation can be adjusted even after the warning device has been installed, further improving the degree of freedom in installing the warning device.

[0011] (4) In the above-described warning device, each of the plurality of modules has a through hole formed therein, and the connecting portion may include a column member inserted through each of the plurality of modules. With this configuration, the plurality of modules are connected by a column member inserted through the through hole formed in each of the plurality of modules. This makes it possible to connect the plurality of modules easily and securely.

[0012] (5) In the above-described warning device, the plurality of modules and the column member are equipped with coils capable of sending and receiving electrical signals to and from each other, and the module comprising the detection unit may transmit the object detection result to the module comprising the warning unit via the coil provided in the column member. With this configuration, the column member inserted through the through hole is equipped with a coil capable of sending and receiving electrical signals to and from the coil in the module. As a result, the detection module can transmit the object detection result to the warning module via the coil provided in the column member, thereby reducing the manufacturing cost of the warning device.

[0013] (6) In the above-described warning device, the connection portion includes a magnet housed inside the module, and adjacent modules may be connected by bringing a magnet provided on one of the adjacent modules close to a magnet provided on the other adjacent module. With this configuration, multiple modules are connected by bringing the magnets housed inside the modules close to each other. This makes it possible to make the modules a sealed structure, thereby improving the environmental resistance of the warning device.

[0014] (7) In the above-described warning device, the module comprising the detection unit comprises an imaging unit for imaging the object, a reflective unit positioned in front of the imaging unit and having a reflective surface that reflects an object in a direction different from the front of the imaging unit, and an acquisition unit that acquires information about the object using the image captured by the imaging unit including the reflective surface, and the module comprising the warning unit may generate the warning means in accordance with the information about the object acquired by the acquisition unit. With this configuration, the module comprising the detection unit has a reflective unit positioned in front of the imaging unit for imaging the object and having a reflective surface that reflects an object in a direction different from the front of the imaging unit. As a result, the image captured by the imaging unit includes an object in front of the imaging unit as well as an object in a direction different from the front of the imaging unit. The acquisition unit can detect an object present in at least one of two directions using the image captured including the reflective surface. Therefore, the number of modules comprising the detection unit can be reduced, and thus the manufacturing cost of the warning device can be reduced.

[0015] (8) In the above-described warning device, the module is a light-emitting unit that emits light toward the installation surface, and has an illumination area with different brightness at specific distances from the warning device. The module includes a light-emitting unit that emits light so that an illumination area with different brightness levels is formed on the installation surface, and the module, which includes the detection unit, includes an imaging unit that images the object together with the illumination area, and an acquisition unit that acquires information about the distance from the warning device to the object using information about the illumination area included in the image captured by the imaging unit, and the module, which includes the warning unit, may change the mode of the warning means according to the distance from the warning device to the object acquired by the acquisition unit. According to this configuration, the module includes a light-emitting unit that emits light so that an illumination area with different brightness levels is formed on the installation surface at different distances from the warning device. The acquisition unit of the module, which includes the detection unit, acquires information about the distance from the warning device to the object using information about the light from the light-emitting unit included in the image captured by the imaging unit, and the module, which includes the warning unit, changes the mode of the warning means according to the distance from the warning device to the object. As a result, by changing the mode of the warning means according to the degree to which the object is approaching, a stronger warning can be given to the target person.

[0016] Furthermore, the present invention can be realized in various forms, for example, in the form of a method for manufacturing a warning device, a method for manufacturing each module of the warning device, a system including a warning device, a method for controlling these devices and systems, and so on. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0017] [Figure 1] This is an overall view of the warning device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the warning device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] This figure illustrates an example of the use of the warning device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the warning device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 5] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the warning device according to the third embodiment. [Figure 6] This is an overall view of the warning device according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 7] It is a schematic cross-sectional view of the warning device of the fourth embodiment. [Figure 8] It is a diagram for explaining an example of use of the warning device of the fourth embodiment. [Figure 9] It is the first diagram for explaining the features of the warning device of the fifth embodiment. [Figure 10] It is the second diagram for explaining the features of the warning device of the fifth embodiment.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0018] <First Embodiment> FIG. 1 is an overall view of the warning device of the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the warning device of the first embodiment. The warning device 1 of the first embodiment is installed, for example, on a path with poor visibility, and when there is a second pedestrian (object) that may collide with a first pedestrian (target person) walking on the path, it notifies the first pedestrian that the second pedestrian is approaching and arouses the first pedestrian's attention to the second pedestrian. The warning device 1 of the present embodiment includes a first detection module 10, a second detection module 20, a first warning module 30, a second warning module 40, convex portions 11, 21, 31, 41, concave portions 12, 22, 32, 42, and a support column 50. In the warning device 1, the second warning module 40, the second detection module 20, the first warning module 30, and the first detection module 10 are vertically stacked in this order from the installation surface 9 side of the warning device 1. In the present embodiment, the object detected by the warning device 1 is a pedestrian, but the object is not limited to a pedestrian and may be a bicycle or a vehicle. Also, the target person who is notified that an object is approaching is a pedestrian, but the target person is not limited to a pedestrian and may be a driver driving a bicycle or a vehicle.

[0019] The first detection module 10 includes a camera 13, a control unit 14, a communication unit 15, and a power receiving unit 16. In the present embodiment, the first detection module 10 has a module case 1 with a sealed structure in which the camera 13, the control unit 14, the communication unit 15, and the power receiving unit 16 have a substantially cylindrical shape It is housed inside 0a.

[0020] Camera 13 is positioned to capture images of the outside scenery in a predetermined first direction as seen from the warning device 1, through a window 10b provided in the module case 10a. Camera 13 sends the captured image in the first direction to the control unit 14.

[0021] The control unit 14 analyzes the captured image in a first direction sent from the camera 13 and detects objects included in the captured image. The communication unit 15 is configured to enable wireless communication with other communication units. The communication unit 15 transmits the object detection result from the control unit 14 to the second warning module 40.

[0022] The power receiving unit 16 has a configuration that allows it to receive power wirelessly transmitted from, for example, an external power source (not shown). The power transmitted to the power receiving unit 16 is supplied to the camera 13, the control unit 14, and the communication unit 15, respectively.

[0023] The second detection module 20 comprises a camera 23, a control unit 24, a communication unit 25, and a power receiving unit 26. In this embodiment, the second detection module 20, comprising the camera 23, the control unit 24, the communication unit 25, and the power receiving unit 26, is housed inside a sealed module case 20a having a substantially cylindrical shape.

[0024] Camera 23 is positioned to capture images of the outside scenery in a second direction, which is different from the first direction as viewed from the warning device 1, through a window 20b provided in the module case 20a. Camera 23 sends the captured images of the second direction to the control unit 24.

[0025] The control unit 24 analyzes the captured image from the camera 23 in a second direction and detects objects included in the captured image. The communication unit 25 is configured to enable wireless communication with other communication units. The communication unit 25 transmits the object detection result from the control unit 24 to the first warning module 30.

[0026] The power receiving unit 26 is configured to receive power wirelessly transmitted from an external power source. The power transmitted to the power receiving unit 26 is supplied to the camera 23, the control unit 24, and the communication unit 25, respectively.

[0027] The first warning module 30 comprises a communication unit 33, a control unit 34, a light-emitting unit 35, and a power-receiving unit 36. In this embodiment, the first warning module 30, comprising the communication unit 33, the control unit 34, the light-emitting unit 35, and the power-receiving unit 36, is housed inside a sealed module case 30a having a substantially cylindrical shape.

[0028] The communication unit 33 has a configuration that allows it to communicate wirelessly with other communication units. The communication unit 33 receives the detection result of an object in a second direction, which is transmitted from the communication unit 25 of the second detection module 20.

[0029] The control unit 34 creates a light emission pattern for the light emission unit 35 according to the object detection result in the second direction received by the communication unit 33. The control unit 34 outputs a light emission command to the light emission unit 35 that includes the created light emission pattern. In this embodiment, when the second detection module 20 detects an object in the second direction, the control unit 34 outputs a light emission command that includes a flashing light emission pattern. Note that the light emission pattern is not limited to flashing and may include the brightness and color of the light, the flashing period of the light, etc.

[0030] The light-emitting unit 35 is equipped with, for example, a 3-in-1 type white LED, and from the light-emitting unit 35 The light emits light in response to a light emission command that includes a light emission pattern. In this embodiment, the light emission unit 35 is always lit to illuminate the feet of pedestrians in the first direction, and when a light emission command including a flashing light emission pattern is input from the control unit 34, the lit light is made to flash.

[0031] The power receiving unit 36 ​​is configured to receive power wirelessly transmitted from an external power source. The power transmitted to the power receiving unit 36 ​​is supplied to the communication unit 33, the control unit 34, and the light-emitting unit 35, respectively.

[0032] The second warning module 40 comprises a communication unit 43, a control unit 44, a light-emitting unit 45, and a power-receiving unit 46. In this embodiment, the second warning module 40, comprising the communication unit 43, the control unit 44, the light-emitting unit 45, and the power-receiving unit 46, is housed inside a sealed module case 40a having a substantially cylindrical shape.

[0033] The communication unit 43 has a configuration that allows it to communicate wirelessly with other communication units. The communication unit 43 receives the detection result of an object in a first direction, which is transmitted from the first detection module 10.

[0034] The control unit 44 creates a light emission pattern for the light emission unit 45 according to the object detection result in the first direction received by the communication unit 43. The control unit 44 outputs a light emission command to the light emission unit 45 that includes the created light emission pattern. In this embodiment, when the first detection module 10 detects an object in the first direction, the control unit 44 outputs a light emission command that includes a flashing light emission pattern. Note that the light emission pattern is not limited to flashing, and may include the brightness and color of the light, the flashing period of the light, etc.

[0035] The light-emitting unit 45 is equipped with, for example, a 3-in-1 type white LED and emits light in response to a light-emitting command that includes a light-emitting pattern from the light-emitting unit 45. In this embodiment, the light-emitting unit 45 is always lit to illuminate the feet of pedestrians in the first direction, and when a light-emitting command including a flashing light-emitting pattern is input from the control unit 44, the lit light is made to flash.

[0036] The power receiving unit 46 is configured to receive power wirelessly transmitted from an external power source. The power transmitted to the power receiving unit 46 is supplied to the communication unit 43, the control unit 44, and the light-emitting unit 45, respectively.

[0037] The protrusion 11 and recess 12 are provided on the module case 10a of the first detection module 10. The protrusion 11 is provided on the upper side in the vertical direction of the module case 10a, and the recess 12 is provided on the lower side in the vertical direction of the module case 10a. In this embodiment, the protrusion 11 and recess 12 are formed in a cylindrical shape. The warning device 1 has a top portion 55 located at the uppermost vertical position, and the protrusion 11 is fitted into the recess 55a provided on the top portion 55.

[0038] The protrusion 21 and recess 22 are provided on the module case 20a of the second detection module 20. The protrusion 21 is provided on the upper vertical side of the module case 20a, and the recess 22 is provided on the lower vertical side of the module case 20a. In this embodiment, the protrusion 21 and recess 22 are formed in a cylindrical shape.

[0039] The protrusion 31 and recess 32 are provided on the module case 30a of the first warning module 30. The protrusion 31 is provided on the upper vertical side of the module case 30a, and the recess 32 is provided on the lower vertical side of the module case 30a. In this embodiment, the protrusion 31 and recess 32 are formed in a cylindrical shape. The protrusion 31 is fitted into the recess 12 of the first detection module 10. Thus, the first warning module 30 and the first detection module 10 are connected. The two modules can rotate relative to each other while connected. The recessed portion 32 fits into the protruding portion 21 of the second detection module 20. This allows the first warning module 30 and the second detection module 20 to rotate relative to each other while connected.

[0040] The protrusion 41 and recess 42 are provided on the module case 40a of the second warning module 40. The protrusion 41 is provided on the upper side in the vertical direction of the module case 40a, and the recess 42 is provided on the lower side in the vertical direction of the module case 40a. In this embodiment, the protrusion 41 and recess 42 are formed in a cylindrical shape. The protrusion 41 is fitted into the recess 22 of the second detection module 20. As a result, the second warning module 40 and the second detection module 20 can rotate relative to each other while connected. The recess 42 is fitted into the support column 50, which will be described later. As a result, the second warning module 40 and the support column 50 can rotate relative to each other while connected.

[0041] The support column 50 supports the first detection module 10 and other components so that they are positioned at a predetermined height from the installation surface 9. A disc-shaped disc portion 51 is provided on the upper vertical side of the support column 50, which fits into the recess 42 of the second warning module 40.

[0042] Figure 3 illustrates an example of the use of the warning device according to the first embodiment. Figure 3 shows a situation on road R1 where pedestrians P1 and P2 are walking toward a bend T1 from different directions. In Figure 3, the warning device 1 is installed at the bend T1 in a position where it can detect both pedestrians P1 and P2. In the situation shown in Figure 3, there is a wall W1 between pedestrians P1 and P2, so pedestrians P1 and P2 cannot see each other.

[0043] In the situation shown in Figure 3, the camera 13 of the first detection module 10 is pointed in the first direction D1 and captures an image of pedestrian P1 in area A1. The camera 23 of the second detection module 20 is pointed in the second direction D2 and captures an image of pedestrian P2 in area A2. The light-emitting unit 35 of the first warning module 30 is pointed in the first direction D1 and illuminates area A1. The light-emitting unit 45 of the second warning module 40 is pointed in the second direction D2 and illuminates area A2.

[0044] When the first detection module 10 detects pedestrian P1, the light-emitting part 45 of the second warning module 40 flashes (indicated by the code IL2 in Figure 3), notifying pedestrian P2 in area A2 that pedestrian P1 is approaching. This draws the attention of pedestrian P2 to pedestrian P1. When the second detection module 20 detects pedestrian P2, the light-emitting part 35 of the first warning module 30 flashes (indicated by the code IL1 in Figure 3), notifying pedestrian P1 in area A1 that pedestrian P2 is present. This draws the attention of pedestrian P1 to pedestrian P2.

[0045] As described above, according to the warning device 1 of this embodiment, the first detection module 10 and the second detection module 20 that detect pedestrians, and the first warning module 30 and the second warning module 40 that alert pedestrians by emitting light are connected by protrusions 11, 21, 31, 41 and recesses 12, 22, 32, 42. Since the modules are connected by fitting together the protrusions 11, 21, 31, 41 and recesses 12, 22, 32, 42, adjacent modules can be easily attached and detached, and the combination and order of the detection modules and warning modules can be freely changed depending on the location where the warning device 1 is installed. Therefore, the degree of freedom in installing the warning device 1 can be improved.

[0046] Furthermore, according to the warning device 1 of this embodiment, since the convex portions 11, 21, 31, 41 and the concave portions 12, 22, 32, 42 are formed in a cylindrical shape, even after the convex portions and concave portions are fitted together The orientation of adjacent modules can be changed. Therefore, even after the warning device 1 is installed, the direction in which the cameras 13 and 23 can capture images and the direction in which the light-emitting units 35 and 45 emit light can be adjusted, further increasing the flexibility of the installation of the warning device 1.

[0047] Furthermore, according to the warning device 1 of this embodiment, the detection modules 10 and 20 have sealed module cases 10a and 20a that house the camera, control unit, etc. The warning modules 30 and 40 have sealed module cases 30a and 40a that house the communication unit, light-emitting unit, etc. This improves the environmental resistance of the warning device 1.

[0048] <Second Embodiment> Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the warning device of the second embodiment. The warning device 2 of the second embodiment differs from the warning device 1 of the first embodiment (Figure 1) in the configuration of the connection part.

[0049] The warning device 2 of the second embodiment comprises a first detection module 10, a second detection module 20, a first warning module 30, a second warning module 40, and a support column 60. In this embodiment, the first detection module 10, the second detection module 20, the first warning module 30, and the second warning module 40 each have through holes 10c, 20c, 30c, and 40c that penetrate in the axial direction.

[0050] The first detection module 10 comprises a camera 13, a control unit 14, a communication unit 15, and a power receiving unit 16. The communication unit 15 and the power receiving unit 16 are arranged around the through hole 10c, as shown in Figure 4, and each includes a coil. In this embodiment, the coil of the communication unit 15 is located vertically within the module case 10a. under Located on the side, the coil of the power receiving unit 16 is in the vertical direction within the module case 10a above It is positioned to the side.

[0051] The second detection module 20 comprises a camera 23, a control unit 24, a communication unit 25, and a power receiving unit 26. The communication unit 25 and the power receiving unit 26 are arranged around a through-hole 20c, as shown in Figure 4, and each includes a coil. In this embodiment, the coil of the communication unit 25 is located vertically within the module case 20a. underLocated on the side, the coil of the power receiving unit 26 is in the vertical direction within the module case 20a above It is positioned to the side.

[0052] The first warning module 30 comprises a communication unit 33, a control unit 34, a light-emitting unit 35, and a power receiving unit 36. The communication unit 33 and the power receiving unit 36 ​​are arranged around a through-hole 30c, as shown in Figure 4, and each includes a coil. In this embodiment, the coil of the communication unit 33 is located vertically within the module case 30a. under Located on the side, the coil of the power receiving unit 36 ​​is in the vertical direction within the module case 30a above It is positioned to the side.

[0053] The second warning module 40 comprises a communication unit 43, a control unit 44, a light-emitting unit 45, and a power receiving unit 46. The communication unit 43 and the power receiving unit 46 are arranged around a through-hole 40c, as shown in Figure 4, and each includes a coil. In this embodiment, the coil of the communication unit 43 is located vertically within the module case 40a. under Located on the side, the coil of the power receiving unit 46 is in the vertical direction within the module case 40a above It is positioned to the side.

[0054] The support column 60 is a hollow, roughly columnar member. The support column 60 comprises a columnar portion 61 and a flange portion 62. The support column 60 supports the first detection module 10 and the like so that the first detection module 10 and the like are positioned at a predetermined height from the installation surface 9.

[0055] The columnar portion 61 is connected to the through hole 10c of the first detection module 10 and the second detection module 20 The through-hole 20c is inserted through the through-hole 30c of the first warning module 30 and the through-hole 40c of the second warning module 40, respectively. Multiple coils 61a, 61b, 61c, 61d, 61e, 61f, 61g, and 61h are arranged inside the columnar portion 61.

[0056] Coil 61a and coil 61b are each positioned inside the coil of the power receiving unit 16 and the coil of the communication unit 15 of the first detection module 10, respectively. Coil 61c and coil 61d are each positioned inside the coil of the power receiving unit 36 ​​and the coil of the communication unit 33 of the first warning module 30, respectively. Coil 61e and coil 61f are each positioned inside the coil of the power receiving unit 26 and the coil of the communication unit 25 of the second detection module 20, respectively. Coil 61g and coil 61h are each positioned inside the coil of the power receiving unit 46 and the coil of the communication unit 43 of the second warning module 40, respectively.

[0057] Coils 61b, 61d, 61f, and 61h are electrically connected inside the columnar section 61 (symbol E1). This allows electrical signals to be exchanged between the communication sections of each module via coils 61b, 61d, 61f, and 61h. Coils 61a, 61c, 61e, and 61g are electrically connected inside the columnar section 61 (symbol E2). The electrical wiring E2 connecting coils 61a, 61c, 61e, and 61g is also connected to an external power supply (not shown). As a result, power is supplied to the power receiving section of each module via the electrical wiring E2 and coils 61a, 61c, 61e, and 61g.

[0058] The flange portion 62 is provided on the outside of the columnar portion 61. The flange portion 62 contacts the vertically lower side of the second warning module 40, which is inserted through the columnar portion 61. This allows the flange portion 62 to support multiple modules that are stacked vertically.

[0059] In the warning device 2 of this embodiment, the vertical direction of each module is the same length. As a result, even if the order of the modules inserted into the columnar section 61 is changed or the number of modules is increased or decreased, the multiple coils built into the columnar section 61 are positioned inside the coils of the communication and power receiving sections of each module. This allows for the transmission and reception of information between modules and the transmission of power to each module through electromagnetic induction between the coils of the columnar section 61 and the coils of each module.

[0060] As described above, according to the warning device 2 of this embodiment, the first detection module 10, the second detection module 20, the first warning module 30, and the second warning module 40 are connected by columnar parts 61 that are inserted through through holes 10c, 20c, 30c, and 40c formed in each module. This allows the first detection module 10, the second detection module 20, the first warning module 30, and the second warning module 40 to be easily and securely connected.

[0061] Furthermore, according to the warning device 2 of this embodiment, the columnar portion 61 inserted through the through holes 10c, 20c, 30c, and 40c is equipped with a plurality of coils 61a, 61b, 61c, 61d, 61e, 61f, 61g, and 61h that can send and receive electrical signals with the coils of the communication unit and power receiving unit within the module. As a result, the first detection module 10 and the second detection module 20 can transmit the object detection results to the first warning module 30 and the second warning module 40 via the coils 61b, 61d, 61f, and 61h provided in the columnar portion 61. The first detection module 10, the second detection module 20, the first warning module 30, and the second warning module 40 can receive power supplied from an external power source via the coils 61a, 61c, 61e, and 61g provided in the columnar portion 61. Therefore, the manufacturing cost of the warning device 2 can be reduced compared to the case in which a configuration for wireless communication or wireless power transmission is provided.

[0062] Furthermore, according to the warning device 2 of this embodiment, the detection modules 10 and 20 have sealed module cases 10a and 20a that house cameras, control units, etc. The warning modules 30 and 40 have sealed module cases 30a and 40a that house communication units, light-emitting units, etc. In this way, the warning device 2 can be connected by the columnar part 61 while each module has a sealed structure. This improves the environmental resistance of the warning device 2.

[0063] <Third Embodiment> Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the warning device 3 of the third embodiment. The warning device 3 of the third embodiment differs from the warning device 1 of the first embodiment (Figure 1) in the configuration of the connection part.

[0064] The warning device 3 of the third embodiment comprises a first detection module 10, a second detection module 20, a first warning module 30, a second warning module 40, and a support column 70. In this embodiment, each of the first detection module 10, the second detection module 20, the first warning module 30, and the second warning module 40 is formed in a cylindrical shape.

[0065] The first detection module 10 comprises a camera 13, a control unit 14, a communication unit 15, and two coils 17a and 17b. In the first detection module 10 of this embodiment, the camera 13, the control unit 14, the communication unit 15, and the two coils 17a and 17b are housed inside a sealed module case 10a. Coil 17a is annular in shape and is located on the lower vertical side inside the module case 10a. Coil 17b is annular in shape and is located on the upper vertical side inside the module case 10a. Coils 17a and 17b are electrically connected (code E10). Inside the module case 10a, magnets 18a and 18b are arranged inside each of the two coils 17a and 17b.

[0066] The second detection module 20 comprises a camera 23, a control unit 24, a communication unit 25, and two coils 27a and 27b. In the second detection module 20 of this embodiment, the camera 23, the control unit 24, the communication unit 25, and the two coils 27a and 27b are housed inside a sealed module case 20a. In this embodiment, coil 27a is formed in an annular shape and is provided on the lower vertical side inside the module case 20a. Coil 27b is also formed in an annular shape and is provided on the upper vertical side inside the module case 20a. Coils 27a and 27b are electrically connected (reference numeral E20). Inside the module case 20a, magnets 28a and 28b are arranged inside each of the two coils 27a and 27b.

[0067] The first warning module 30 comprises a communication unit 33, a control unit 34, a light-emitting unit 35, and two coils 37a and 37b. In the first warning module 30 of this embodiment, the communication unit 33, the control unit 34, the light-emitting unit 35, and the two coils 37a and 37b are housed inside a sealed module case 30a. In this embodiment, coil 37a is formed in an annular shape and is provided on the lower vertical side inside the module case 30a. Coil 37b is also formed in an annular shape and is provided on the upper vertical side inside the module case 30a. Coils 37a and 37b are electrically connected (code E30). Inside the module case 30a, magnets 38a and 38b are arranged inside each of the two coils 37a and 37b.

[0068] The second warning module 40 comprises a communication unit 43, a control unit 44, a light-emitting unit 45, and two coils 47a and 47b. In the second warning module 40 of this embodiment, a sealed structure Inside the module case 40a are a communication unit 43, a control unit 44, a light-emitting unit 45, and two coils 47a and 47b. In this embodiment, coil 47a is annular in shape and is located on the lower vertical side inside the module case 40a. Coil 47b is annular in shape and is located on the upper vertical side inside the module case 40a. Coils 47a and 47b are electrically connected (code E40). Inside the module case 40a, magnets 48a and 48b are arranged inside each of the two coils 47a and 47b.

[0069] The support column 70 comprises a columnar portion 71 and a mounting base 72. The columnar portion 71 is installed to extend vertically when the warning device 3 is installed on the installation surface 9. The mounting base 72 is provided at the end of the columnar portion 71. The size of the mounting base 72 is approximately the same as the size of the second warning module 40, etc. An annular coil 73 and a magnet 74 positioned inside the coil 73 are embedded inside the mounting base 72. The coil 73 is electrically connected to an external power supply.

[0070] In the warning device 3, each module is connected to the support column 70 using magnets housed in each module and magnets 74 embedded in the mounting base 72. Specifically, the magnet 74 of the mounting base 72 and the magnet 48a of the second warning module 40 are brought into close proximity, thereby connecting the support column 70 and the second warning module 40 so that they can rotate relative to each other. The magnet 48b of the second warning module 40 and the magnet 28a of the second detection module 20 are brought into close proximity, thereby connecting the second warning module 40 and the second detection module 20 so that they can rotate relative to each other. The magnet 28b of the second detection module 20 and the magnet 38a of the first warning module 30 are brought into close proximity, thereby connecting the second detection module 20 and the first warning module 30 so that they can rotate relative to each other. The magnet 38b of the first warning module 30 and the magnet 18a of the first detection module 10 are brought into close proximity, thereby connecting the first warning module 30 and the first detection module 10 so that they can rotate relative to each other.

[0071] In the warning device 3, power is transmitted from the support column 70 to each module using coils housed in each module and coils 73 embedded in the mounting base 72. Specifically, coil 73 in the mounting base 72 supplies power to coil 47a of the second warning module 40. Coil 47b of the second warning module 40 supplies a portion of the power supplied from the mounting base 72 to coil 27a of the second detection module 20. Coil 27b of the second detection module 20 supplies a portion of the power supplied from the second warning module 40 to coil 37a of the first warning module 30. Coil 37b of the first warning module 30 supplies a portion of the power supplied from the second detection module 20 to coil 17a of the first detection module 10.

[0072] As described above, according to the warning device 3 of this embodiment, the first detection module 10, the second detection module 20, the first warning module 30, and the second warning module 40 are connected by bringing the magnets 18a, 18b, 28a, 28b, 38a, 38b, 48a, and 48b housed inside the modules into close proximity. This allows the modules to have a sealed structure, thereby improving the environmental resistance of the warning device 3.

[0073] Furthermore, according to the warning device 3 of this embodiment, communication is performed between multiple modules using coils 17a, 17b, 27a, 27b, 37a, 37b, 47a, and 47b that are installed in close proximity to each other. As a result, the manufacturing cost of the warning device 3 can be reduced compared to the case in which a configuration for wireless communication is provided.

[0074] <Fourth Embodiment> Figure 6 is an overall view of the warning device of the fourth embodiment. Compared to the warning device 1 of the first embodiment (Figure 1), the warning device 4 of the fourth embodiment has a different detection module configuration. ru.

[0075] The warning device 4 of this embodiment comprises a detection module 80, three warning modules 100, 200, and 300, and a connection part that connects the detection module 80 and the three warning modules 100, 200, and 300. The warning device 4 detects objects in three directions using one detection module 80, and, depending on the detection result, alerts pedestrians to the object using at least one of the three warning modules.

[0076] Figure 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the warning device according to the fourth embodiment. The cross-section of the detection module 80 shown in Figure 7 shows the horizontal cross-section when the warning device 4 is installed on the installation surface 9. The detection module 80 includes a camera 81, a prism mirror 82, a control unit 14, a communication unit 15, and a power receiving unit 16. In this embodiment, the camera 81, prism mirror 82, control unit 14, communication unit 15, and power receiving unit 16 of the detection module 80 are housed inside the module case 80a.

[0077] The module case 80a of the detection module 80 has an opening 80b. The camera 81 is mounted on a camera stand 80c connected to the opening 80b, and is capable of capturing images of the outside of the warning device 4 through the opening 80b.

[0078] The prism mirror 82 is positioned in front of the camera 81. As shown in Figure 7, the prism mirror 82 has a triangular cross-section in the horizontal direction with one right angle. In this embodiment, the prism mirror 82 has two surfaces 82b and 82c that reflect light, flanking the right-angled corner 82a. As a result, as shown in Figure 7, the camera 81 receives light Lg1 from the direction the camera 81 is facing and light Lg2 and Lg3 reflected from the mirror surfaces 82b and 82c, respectively. Therefore, the camera 81 can simultaneously capture images of the external scenery in the direction the camera 81 is facing (forward) and the external scenery to the left and right from the camera 81's perspective. The camera 81 sends the captured images in the three directions (forward and left and right) to the control unit 14. The control unit 14 analyzes the captured images in the three directions sent from the camera 81 and detects objects included in the captured images.

[0079] Figure 8 illustrates an example of the use of the warning device according to the fourth embodiment. Figure 8 shows pedestrians P3, P4, and P5 walking toward a three-way intersection T2 on road R2. In Figure 8, the warning device 4 is installed at the three-way intersection T2 in a position where pedestrian P3 can be recognized in front of the camera 81, and where pedestrians P4 and P5 can be recognized using the prism mirror 82. As shown in Figure 8, since there are walls W2 and W3 on road R2, pedestrian P3 cannot see pedestrians P4 and P5. In the warning device 4, the light-emitting parts 100a, 200a, and 300a of the three warning modules 100, 200, and 300, respectively, are oriented to emit light toward pedestrians P3, P4, and P5 (see Figure 6).

[0080] In the situation shown in Figure 8, the warning device 4, as described above, can detect the approach of pedestrians in areas A3, A4, and A5 with a single detection module 80 equipped with a prism mirror 82. For example, when the detection module 80 of the warning device 4 detects the approach of pedestrian P3, the light-emitting parts 200a and 300a of the two warning modules 200 and 300 illuminate (white arrows IL4 and IL5), alerting pedestrians P4 and P5, respectively, to the approach of pedestrian P3. Furthermore, when the detection module 80 of the warning device 4 detects the approach of at least one of pedestrians P4 and pedestrian P5, the light-emitting part 100a of the warning module 100 illuminates (white arrow IL3), alerting pedestrian P3 to the approach of at least one of pedestrians P4 and pedestrian P5.

[0081] As described above, according to the warning device 4 of this embodiment, the detection module 80 has a prism mirror 82 positioned in front of the camera 81 that images pedestrians, and the mirrors 82b and 82c that reflect pedestrians to the left and right of the camera 81, which are different from those in front of the camera 81. As a result, the image captured by the camera 81 includes pedestrians to the left and right of the camera 81, as well as pedestrians to the left and right of the camera 81. Therefore, the control unit 14 can also detect pedestrians in either the left or right direction using the captured image which includes the mirrors 82b and 82c. Consequently, there is no need to provide three detection modules facing both forward and to the left and right of the camera 81, thus reducing the number of detection modules and lowering the manufacturing cost of the warning device 4.

[0082] <Fifth Embodiment> Figure 9 is the first diagram illustrating the features of the warning device of the fifth embodiment. The warning device 5 of the fifth embodiment differs from the warning device 1 of the first embodiment (Figure 1) in the function of the warning module.

[0083] The warning device 5 of this embodiment includes a first detection module 10, a second detection module 20, a first warning module 30, a second warning module 40, protrusions 11, 21, 31, 41, recesses 12, 22, 32, 42, and a support column 50. In this embodiment, the light-emitting part 35 of the first warning module 30 and the light-emitting part 45 of the second warning module 40 of the warning device 5 each emit light to detect the distance to a pedestrian. The following will describe in detail the light emission used by the light-emitting part 45 of the second warning module 40 to detect the distance to a pedestrian, but the same applies to the case of the light-emitting part 35 of the first warning module 30.

[0084] Figure 9(a) is a view of the warning device 5 from above, and Figure 9(b) is a view of the warning device 5 from the side, showing the state in which the light-emitting unit 45 of the second warning module 40 is emitting light. The light-emitting unit 45 emits light so that illumination areas A6 with different brightness levels are formed on the installation surface 9 at specific distances from the warning device 5. For example, as shown in Figure 9, the brightness of the light from the light-emitting unit 45 is adjusted so that the illumination area A6 becomes dimmer for every 1 m distance from the warning device 5. Specifically, if the configuration of the light-emitting unit 35 is such that five rows of LEDs are arranged vertically in five layers, the top row of LEDs illuminates the installation surface 9 up to 5 m away from the warning device 5 (reference numeral 5a in Figure 9(b)), and the second row of LEDs from the top illuminates the installation surface 9 up to 4 m away from the warning device 5 (reference numeral 5b in Figure 9(b)). The third row of LEDs from the top illuminates the installation surface 9 up to 3m away from the warning device 5 (reference numeral 5c in Figure 9(b)), the fourth row of LEDs from the top illuminates the installation surface 9 up to 2m away from the warning device 5 (reference numeral 5d in Figure 9(b)), and the bottom row of LEDs illuminates the installation surface 9 up to 1m away from the warning device 5 (reference numeral 5e in Figure 9(b)). In this way, by illuminating the installation surface 9 with the light-emitting unit 45, the lights from each unit overlap, forming an illuminated area A6 with varying brightness as shown in Figure 9. Note that in Figure 9(a), a higher dot density indicates greater brightness.

[0085] Figure 10 is a second diagram illustrating the features of the fifth embodiment of the warning device. The second detection module 20 images pedestrians Pd that are in the area illuminated by the light-emitting unit 45 of the second warning module 40, along with the illumination by the light-emitting unit 45. The captured images Ci1 and Ci2 shown in Figures 10(a) and 10(b), respectively, show states where the position of the pedestrians Pd differs from the illumination representing distance by the light-emitting unit 45. In the state shown in Figure 10(a), the pedestrians Pd to be detected are outside the illumination area A6 by the light-emitting unit 45. Therefore, even if the second detection module 20 detects the approach of pedestrians Pd, the first warning module 30 emits light to alert another pedestrian in the first direction from the perspective of the warning device 5 to the pedestrians Pd.

[0086] On the other hand, in the state shown in Figure 10(b), the pedestrian Pd to be detected is inside the illumination area A6 of the light-emitting unit 35, so the distance from the warning device 5 to the pedestrian Pd can be detected by utilizing the brightness of the illumination from the light-emitting unit 45. For example, in the state shown in Figure 10(b), from the relationship between distance and illumination brightness shown in Figure 9, it can be seen that the pedestrian Pd has moved to a position of about 3m from the warning device 5. The first warning module 30 changes the illumination pattern of the light-emitting unit 45 according to the distance to the pedestrian Pd, prompting another pedestrian in the first direction from the warning device 5 to change the level of warning. For example, in the state shown in Figure 10(a), the light-emitting unit 45 only increases the brightness of the illumination, while in the state shown in Figure 10(b), it changes the color of the light or flashes to encourage greater attention.

[0087] As described above, according to the warning device 5 of this embodiment, the light-emitting unit 45 of the second warning module 40 emits light such that illumination areas A6 with different brightness levels are formed on the installation surface 9 at specific distances from the warning device 5. The control unit 24 of the second detection module 20 uses information about the light emitted by the light-emitting unit 45 included in the image captured by the camera 23 to acquire information about the distance from the warning device 5 to the pedestrian Pd. The first warning module 30 changes the color of the emitted light or flashes depending on the distance from the warning device 5 to the pedestrian Pd. Similarly, in the warning device 5, the first detection module 10 acquires information about the distance to the pedestrian Pd depending on the brightness of the illumination by the first warning module 30, and the second warning module 40 changes the emission pattern. As a result, by changing the emission pattern according to the degree to which the pedestrian Pd is approaching, it is possible to more strongly alert pedestrians.

[0088] <Modified form of this embodiment> The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and can be implemented in various forms without departing from its spirit, for example, the following modifications are also possible.

[0089] [Example 1] In the above-described embodiment, the warning device's detection module detects objects by capturing images of the surrounding environment with a camera and analyzing the captured images in the control unit. The method by which the warning device detects objects is not limited to this, and detection may also be performed using laser radar, infrared light, sound waves, etc.

[0090] [Differentiation 2] In the above-described embodiment, LED light emission was used as a method to inform pedestrians that an object was approaching. However, the means of warning pedestrians are not limited to this. For example, sound from a speaker may be used, or light and sound may be used in combination.

[0091] [Difference 3] In the embodiments described above, the detection module is provided with a control unit (detection unit) that detects objects, and the warning module is provided with a light-emitting unit (warning unit) that emits light to alert pedestrians. However, a single module may include both a detection unit that detects objects and a warning unit that warns pedestrians to alert them.

[0092] [Differentiation Example 4] In the second embodiment, the modules are connected by the interlocking of protrusions and recesses. By installing the magnets of the third embodiment inside the protrusions and around the recesses of the second embodiment, the connection force of the modules can be increased.

[0093] [Difference 5] In the third embodiment, communication between modules is performed by wireless communication using a communication unit provided in each of the multiple modules. Communication between modules may also be performed using electromagnetic induction by a coil. Alternatively, a single coil provided in each of the multiple modules may be used to duplicate the power receiving signal and the communication signal to perform power reception and information exchange. In the module case of the third embodiment, the positional relationship between the magnet and the coil may be reversed.

[0094] [Modification 6] In the fifth embodiment, the illumination for detecting the distance to a pedestrian is provided by light-emitting units 35 and 45, respectively, of the first warning module 30 and the second warning module 40. However, the first detection module 10 and the second detection module 20 may each be equipped with a light-emitting unit that emits light to detect distance.

[0095] The embodiments of this specification have been described above based on the embodiments and modifications described above. The embodiments described above are for the purpose of facilitating understanding of this specification and do not limit it. This specification may be modified and improved without departing from its spirit and the scope of the claims, and equivalents thereof are included in this specification. Furthermore, any technical features that are not described as essential in this specification may be deleted as appropriate. [Explanation of symbols]

[0096] 1,2,3,4,5…Attention device 10…First detection module 10c,20c,30c,40c...Through hole 11, 21, 31, 41… protrusions 12, 22, 32, 42… recessed 13, 23, 81… Camera 14,24…Control Unit 15, 16, 25, 26, 33, 36, 43, 46… coil 18a, 18b, 28a, 28b, 38a, 38b, 48a, 48b… Magnets 20…Second detection module 30…First warning module 35, 45… Light-emitting part 40…First warning module 50,60,70…pillar 82...Prism Mirror 82b,82c…mirror surface P1, P2, P3, P4, P5, Pd... Pedestrians

Claims

1. A warning device that alerts a person to an approaching object, A plurality of modules comprising at least one of a detection unit for detecting the object and a warning unit for generating at least one of a plurality of types of warning means for attracting the attention of the subject, including light and sound, A connection part for connecting multiple modules to each other, comprising a connection part for detachably connecting the multiple modules to each other, Each of the aforementioned modules has a communication unit for wireless communication with other modules. A warning device characterized by the following:

2. A warning device according to claim 1, The aforementioned connection portion includes a protrusion and a recess provided on each module, Adjacent modules are connected by the interlocking of a protrusion on one module and a recess on the other module. A warning device characterized by the following:

3. A warning device according to claim 2, Each of the aforementioned protrusions and recesses is formed in a cylindrical shape. Adjacent modules are connected in a way that allows for relative rotation. A warning device characterized by the following:

4. A warning device according to claim 1, Each of the aforementioned modules has a through hole formed therein. The connecting portion includes a column member that is inserted through each of the through holes of the plurality of modules. A warning device characterized by the following:

5. A warning device according to claim 4, The plurality of modules and the column member are equipped with coils capable of mutually transmitting and receiving electrical signals. The module comprising the detection unit transmits the object detection result to the module comprising the warning unit via the coil provided in the column member. A warning device characterized by the following:

6. A warning device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, The aforementioned connection part includes a magnet housed inside the module. Adjacent modules are connected by bringing a magnet located on one of the adjacent modules close to a magnet located on the other adjacent module. A warning device characterized by the following:

7. A warning device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, The module, which includes the aforementioned detection unit, An imaging unit for imaging the aforementioned object, A reflective section positioned in front of the imaging section, having a reflective surface that reflects an object in a direction different from the front of the imaging section, The system includes an acquisition unit that acquires information about the object using the image captured by the imaging unit, which includes the reflective surface. The module, which includes the warning unit, generates the warning means in accordance with the information about the object acquired by the acquisition unit. A warning device characterized by the following:

8. A warning device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, The module includes a light-emitting section that emits light toward the installation surface, such that illumination areas with different brightness levels are formed on the installation surface at specific distances from the warning device. The module, which includes the aforementioned detection unit, An imaging unit that images the object together with the irradiation area, The system includes an acquisition unit that acquires information regarding the distance from the warning device to the object using information regarding the irradiation area included in the image captured by the imaging unit, The module, which includes the warning unit, changes the configuration of the warning means according to the distance from the warning device to the object acquired by the acquisition unit. Alert device.

9. A warning device for alerting a person to an object approaching, A plurality of modules comprising at least one of a detection unit for detecting the object and a warning unit for generating at least one of a plurality of types of warning means for attracting the attention of the subject, including light and sound, A connection part for connecting multiple modules to each other, comprising a connection part for detachably connecting the multiple modules to each other, Each of the aforementioned modules has a through hole formed therein. The connecting portion includes a column member that is inserted through each of the through holes of the plurality of modules. The plurality of modules and the column member are equipped with coils capable of mutually transmitting and receiving electrical signals. The module comprising the detection unit transmits the object detection result to the module comprising the warning unit via the coil provided in the column member. A warning device characterized by the following:

10. A warning device for alerting a person to an object approaching, A plurality of modules comprising at least one of a detection unit for detecting the object and a warning unit for generating at least one of a plurality of types of warning means for attracting the attention of the subject, including light and sound, A connection part for connecting multiple modules to each other, comprising a connection part for detachably connecting the multiple modules to each other, The module includes a light-emitting section that emits light toward the installation surface, such that illumination areas with different brightness levels are formed on the installation surface at specific distances from the warning device. The module, which includes the aforementioned detection unit, An imaging unit that images the object together with the irradiation area, The system includes an acquisition unit that acquires information regarding the distance from the warning device to the object using information regarding the irradiation area included in the image captured by the imaging unit, The module, which includes the warning unit, changes the configuration of the warning means according to the distance from the warning device to the object acquired by the acquisition unit. A warning device characterized by the following:

Images