Object detection device

Abstract

To prevent reduction in the reliability of shielding an enclosure-side connector from the outside and reduction in the user's workability.SOLUTION: An object detection device (20) includes: a facing part (22) provided in an enclosure (21) and facing an intersection position (P1) where a first extension surface (21f) and a second extension surface (21g) intersect with each other; a draw-out part (30c) from which a cable (31) is drawn; a cable-side connector (32); a detachable part(30) that can be attached to or detached from the facing part with the draw-out part facing in the same direction as a first side (21c) and with the facing part facing the same direction as a second side (21d); and a first enclosure-side connector (23A) and a second enclosure-side connector (23B) provided on the facing part. The detachable part shields the first enclosure-side connector, the second enclosure-side connector, and the cable-side connector from the outside with the cable-side connector connected to the first enclosure-side connector and with the cable-side connector connected to the second enclosure-side connector.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an object detection device for detecting an object.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, there is an area sensor that emits detection light while changing the emission direction and detects an intruder in a monitoring area based on the reflected light (see Patent Document 1). Generally, a cable for power supply and communication is connected to the area sensor. Specifically, a cable-side connector connected to the cable and a housing-side connector provided on the housing of the area sensor are connected.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] By the way, the installation direction and location of the area sensor (object detection device) are restricted in relation to the monitoring area for detecting an object. In that case, the appropriate direction for pulling out the cable from the area sensor changes according to the installation mode of the area sensor. For example, when the back surface of the area sensor is fixed to a wall, it is desirable to pull out the cable downward from the area sensor. Also, when the lower surface of the area sensor is fixed to the upper surface of a table, it is desirable to pull out the cable backward or sideways from the area sensor.

[0005] Therefore, it is conceivable to provide the area sensor housing with a first housing-side connector that allows the cable-side connector to be connected from the rear, and a second housing-side connector that allows the cable-side connector to be connected from below, and to shield the unused housing-side connector from the outside with a cover. However, if the cover is not attached to the housing, the unused housing-side connector may be exposed to the outside, which may reduce the reliability of shielding the housing-side connector from the outside.

[0006] Furthermore, it is conceivable to provide a first cable-side component for pulling the cable out to the rear of the area sensor and a second cable-side component for pulling the cable out to the bottom of the area sensor, and to use the first and second cable-side components depending on the installation configuration of the area sensor. However, if the installation configuration of the area sensor changes from the original plan, it may be necessary to purchase and replace additional cable-side components, which may reduce the user's work efficiency.

[0007] This invention was made to solve these problems, and its main objective is to suppress the decrease in reliability of shielding the housing-side connector from the outside and the decrease in user workability in an object detection device that can pull out cables in multiple directions. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The first means to solve the above problem is, An object detection device comprising a housing having a first surface and a second surface, wherein a first extended surface extending from the first surface and a second extended surface extending from the second surface intersect, and the first surface or the second surface is fixed to a fixing member and a cable is connected, The housing is provided with a facing portion that faces the intersection point where the first extended surface and the second extended surface intersect, The cable includes an outlet from which the cable is drawn out, and a cable-side connector connected to the cable, and the outlet is oriented in the same direction as the first surface, and the outlet is oriented in the same direction as the second surface, and the outlet is oriented in the same direction as the second surface, A first housing-side connector is provided on the opposing portion, and the cable-side connector can be connected to it with the pull-out portion facing the same direction as the first surface, A second housing-side connector is provided on the opposing portion, and the cable-side connector can be connected to it with the pull-out portion facing the same direction as the second surface, Equipped with, The detachable portion shields the first housing-side connector, the second housing-side connector, and the cable-side connector from the outside when the cable-side connector is connected to the first housing-side connector and when the cable-side connector is connected to the second housing-side connector.

[0009] According to the above configuration, the housing comprises a first surface and a second surface, where a first extended surface extending from the first surface and a second extended surface extending from the second surface intersect, and either the first surface or the second surface is fixed to a fixing member and a cable is connected to it. For this reason, when the first surface of the housing of the object detection device is fixed to the fixing member, it is desirable to pull the cable out in the direction that the second surface of the housing faces. Also, when the second surface of the housing of the object detection device is fixed to the fixing member, it is desirable to pull the cable out in the direction that the first surface of the housing faces.

[0010] Here, the opposing part is provided on the housing and faces the intersection where the first extension surface and the second extension surface intersect. The detachable part includes a pull-out section from which the cable is pulled out and a cable-side connector connected to the cable, and is detachable from the opposing part when the pull-out section is facing the same direction as the first surface and when the pull-out section is facing the same direction as the second surface. The first housing-side connector is provided on the opposing part and can be connected to the cable-side connector when the pull-out section is facing the same direction as the first surface. Therefore, by connecting the cable-side connector to the first housing-side connector and attaching the detachable part to the opposing part, the cable can be pulled out from the pull-out section of the detachable part in the direction facing the first surface of the housing. The second housing-side connector is provided on the opposing part and can be connected to the cable-side connector when the pull-out section is facing the same direction as the second surface. Therefore, by connecting the cable-side connector to the second housing-side connector and attaching the detachable part to the opposite side, the cable can be pulled out from the pull-out section of the detachable part in the direction facing the second surface of the housing.

[0011] Furthermore, the detachable section shields the first housing-side connector, the second housing-side connector, and the cable-side connector from the outside when the cable-side connector is connected to the first housing-side connector and when the cable-side connector is connected to the second housing-side connector. Therefore, when the cable-side connector is connected to the first housing-side connector, a cover is not required to shield the second housing-side connector from the outside. Similarly, when the cable-side connector is connected to the second housing-side connector, a cover is not required to shield the first housing-side connector from the outside. Consequently, there is no risk of the housing-side connector being exposed to the outside if the cover is not attached to the housing, thus preventing a decrease in the reliability of shielding the housing-side connector from the outside. In addition, there is no need to change parts depending on whether the cable is routed in the direction of the first surface of the housing or the direction of the second surface of the housing. Therefore, even if the installation configuration of the object detection device changes from the original plan, there is no need to purchase or replace additional parts, thus preventing a decrease in user work efficiency.

[0012] In the second means, the opposing portion includes a first contact surface and a second contact surface that are symmetrical with respect to a predetermined plane that bisects the angle between the first extension surface and the second extension surface, and the detachable portion includes a third contact surface that can contact the first contact surface and a fourth contact surface that can contact the second contact surface when the cable-side connector is connected to the first housing-side connector, and when the cable-side connector is connected to the second housing-side connector, the fourth contact surface can contact the first contact surface and the third contact surface can contact the second contact surface.

[0013] According to the above configuration, the first and second contact surfaces of the opposing parts are symmetrical with respect to a predetermined plane that bisects the angle between the first and second extension surfaces of the housing. Therefore, when the cable-side connector is connected to the first housing-side connector, if the third contact surface can contact the first contact surface and the fourth contact surface can contact the second contact surface, then when the fourth contact surface is brought into contact with the first contact surface, the third contact surface can be brought into contact with the second contact surface. In this regard, when the cable-side connector is connected to the second housing-side connector, the fourth contact surface can contact the first contact surface and the third contact surface can contact the second contact surface. Thus, it is possible to realize a state in which the cable-side connector is connected to the first housing-side connector and the detachable part is attached to the opposing part, and a state in which the cable-side connector is connected to the second housing-side connector and the detachable part is attached to the opposing part.

[0014] If the first contact surface of the opposing part and the third contact surface (second and fourth contact surfaces) of the detachable part are not perpendicular to the direction in which the cable-side connector is connected to the first housing-side connector, the first and third contact surfaces (the second and fourth contact surfaces) may slide after contact when connecting the cable-side connector to the first housing-side connector, potentially causing excessive force to be applied to both the first housing-side connector and the cable-side connector. Similarly, if the second contact surface of the opposing part and the third contact surface (first and fourth contact surfaces) of the detachable part are not perpendicular to the direction in which the cable-side connector is connected to the second housing-side connector, the second and third contact surfaces (the first and fourth contact surfaces) may slide after contact when connecting the cable-side connector to the second housing-side connector, potentially causing excessive force to be applied to both the second housing-side connector and the cable-side connector.

[0015] In this regard, the third means includes a first guide mechanism that guides the cable-side connector toward the first housing-side connector and restricts sliding between the first contact surface and the third contact surface and between the second contact surface and the fourth contact surface, and a second guide mechanism that guides the cable-side connector toward the second housing-side connector and restricts sliding between the second contact surface and the third contact surface and between the first contact surface and the fourth contact surface. With this configuration, when connecting the cable-side connector to the first housing-side connector, the first guide mechanism can guide the cable-side connector toward the first housing-side connector and restrict sliding between the first contact surface and the third contact surface and between the second contact surface and the fourth contact surface. Therefore, even if the first contact surface of the opposing part and the third contact surface (second and fourth contact surfaces) of the detachable part are not perpendicular to the direction in which the cable-side connector is connected to the first housing-side connector, excessive force acting on the first housing-side connector and the cable-side connector can be suppressed. Similarly, when connecting the cable-side connector to the second housing-side connector, the second guide mechanism can guide the cable-side connector toward the second housing-side connector and restrict sliding between the second and third contact surfaces and between the first and fourth contact surfaces.

[0016] Specifically, as in the fourth means, the first guide mechanism may include a first hole formed in the opposing part and extending in a first connection direction for connecting the cable-side connector to the first housing-side connector, and a pin provided in the attachment / detachment part and extending in the connection direction of the cable-side connector and insertable into the first hole, and the second guide mechanism may include a second hole formed in the opposing part and extending in a second connection direction for connecting the cable-side connector to the second housing-side connector, and the pin insertable into the second hole.

[0017] The fifth means includes a fastener that can tighten the attachment / detachment portion and fix it to the opposing portion when the cable-side connector is connected to the first housing-side connector and when the cable-side connector is connected to the second housing-side connector. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent the opposing portion and the attachment / detachment portion from shifting after the cable-side connector is connected to the first housing-side connector or the second housing-side connector. Therefore, it is possible to prevent damage to the first housing-side connector, the second housing-side connector, and the cable-side connector in the event that the user snags on the cable.

[0018] The sixth method is, An object detection device comprising a housing having a first surface and a second surface, wherein a first extended surface extending from the first surface and a second extended surface extending from the second surface intersect, and the first surface or the second surface is fixed to a fixing member and a cable is connected, The housing is provided with a facing portion that faces the intersection point where the first extended surface and the second extended surface intersect, The cable includes an outlet from which the cable is drawn out, and a cable-side connector connected to the cable, and the outlet is oriented in the same direction as the first surface, and the outlet is oriented in the same direction as the second surface, and the outlet is oriented in the same direction as the second surface, A housing-side connector is provided on the opposing portion, and the cable-side connector can be connected when the pull-out portion is facing the same direction as the first surface and when the pull-out portion is facing the same direction as the second surface. The detachable portion shields the housing-side connector and the cable-side connector from the outside when the pull-out portion faces the same direction as the first surface and the cable-side connector is connected to the housing-side connector, and when the pull-out portion faces the same direction as the second surface and the cable-side connector is connected to the housing-side connector.

[0019] According to the above configuration, the opposing part is provided on the housing and faces the intersection where the first extension surface and the second extension surface intersect. The detachable part includes a pull-out section from which the cable is pulled out and a cable-side connector connected to the cable, and is detachable from the opposing part when the pull-out section is facing the same direction as the first surface and when the pull-out section is facing the same direction as the second surface. The housing-side connector is provided on the opposing part and can be connected to the cable-side connector when the pull-out section is facing the same direction as the first surface. Therefore, when the pull-out section is facing the same direction as the first surface, the cable-side connector is connected to the housing-side connector and the detachable part is attached to the opposing part, allowing the cable to be pulled out from the pull-out section of the detachable part in the direction facing the first surface of the housing. The housing-side connector is also provided on the opposing part and can be connected to the cable-side connector when the pull-out section is facing the same direction as the second surface. Therefore, with the pull-out section facing the same direction as the second surface, the cable-side connector is connected to the housing-side connector and the detachable section is attached to the opposite side, allowing the cable to be pulled out from the pull-out section of the detachable section in the direction facing the second surface of the housing.

[0020] Furthermore, the detachable portion shields the housing-side connector, the housing-side connector, and the cable-side connector from the outside when the pull-out portion faces the same direction as the first surface and the cable-side connector is connected to the housing-side connector, and when the pull-out portion faces the same direction as the second surface and the cable-side connector is connected to the housing-side connector. Therefore, when the cable-side connector is connected to the housing-side connector, a cover is not required to shield the housing-side connector from the outside. Consequently, there is no risk of forgetting to attach a cover to the housing, and a decrease in the reliability of shielding the housing-side connector from the outside can be suppressed. In addition, there is no need to change parts depending on whether the cable is pulled out in the direction the first surface of the housing faces or in the direction the second surface of the housing faces. Therefore, even if the installation configuration of the object detection device is changed from the original plan, there is no need to purchase or replace additional parts, and a decrease in user workability can be suppressed.

[0021] In the seventh means, the opposing portion includes a first contact surface and a second contact surface that are symmetric with respect to a predetermined plane that bisects the angle formed by the first extension surface and the second extension surface. The detachable portion includes a third contact surface that can contact the first contact surface and a fourth contact surface that can contact the second contact surface in a state where the drawing portion faces the same direction as the first surface and the cable-side connector is connected to the housing-side connector. In a state where the drawing portion faces the same direction as the second surface and the cable-side connector is connected to the housing-side connector, the fourth contact surface can contact the first contact surface, and the third contact surface can contact the second contact surface.

[0022] According to the above configuration, the first contact surface and the second contact surface of the opposing portion are symmetric with respect to a predetermined plane that bisects the angle formed by the first extension surface and the second extension surface of the housing. Therefore, in a state where the drawing portion faces the same direction as the first surface and the cable-side connector is connected to the housing-side connector, if the third contact surface can contact the first contact surface and the fourth contact surface can contact the second contact surface, when the fourth contact surface is made to contact the first contact surface, the third contact surface can be made to contact the second contact surface. In this regard, in a state where the drawing portion faces the same direction as the second surface and the cable-side connector is connected to the housing-side connector, the fourth contact surface can contact the first contact surface, and the third contact surface can contact the second contact surface. Therefore, it is possible to realize a state where the drawing portion faces the same direction as the first surface, the cable-side connector is connected to the housing-side connector, and the detachable portion is attached to the opposing portion, and a state where the drawing portion faces the same direction as the second surface, the cable-side connector is connected to the housing-side connector, and the detachable portion is attached to the opposing portion.

[0023] In the eighth means, there is provided a fastener that can fix the detachable portion to the opposing portion by tightening the detachable portion in a state where the lead-out portion faces the same direction as the first surface and the cable-side connector is connected to the housing-side connector, and in a state where the lead-out portion faces the same direction as the second surface and the cable-side connector is connected to the housing-side connector. According to such a configuration, after connecting the cable-side connector to the housing-side connector in a state where the lead-out portion faces the same direction as the first surface or in a state where the lead-out portion faces the same direction as the second surface, it is possible to suppress the displacement between the opposing portion and the detachable portion. Therefore, it is possible to suppress damage to the housing-side connector and the cable-side connector when the user gets caught on the cable or the like.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0024] [Figure 1] Perspective view showing the environment where the area sensor is installed. [Figure 2] Perspective view of the area sensor. [Figure 3] Schematic diagram showing the manner in which the area sensor is installed on the table. [Figure 4] Schematic diagram showing the manner in which the area sensor is installed on the support plate. [Figure 5] Schematic diagram showing the manner in which the detachable portion is attached to the housing of the area sensor from the rear. [Figure 6] Schematic diagram showing the manner in which the detachable portion is attached to the housing of the area sensor from below. <​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​A schematic diagram showing an example of connector modification. [Figure 14] A schematic diagram showing other examples of modifications to the opposing and detachable parts. [Figure 15] A schematic diagram showing other examples of connector modifications. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0025] The following describes one embodiment of an area sensor used to monitor intrusions into a factory's surveillance area, with reference to the drawings.

[0026] As shown in Figure 1, a robot 10 is installed inside the factory. The robot 10 is fixed, for example, to the factory floor. A fence 11 is provided around the robot 10. The fence 11 (partition member) extends vertically (upward) from the floor and has a predetermined width that is capable of isolating the robot 10. An area sensor 20 is attached to the lower part (a predetermined portion) of the fence 11 via a support plate 12 (fixing member). That is, the area sensor 20 is fixed to the support plate 12, and the support plate 12 is fixed to the fence 11.

[0027] The area sensor 20 (object detection device) is a wide-angle distance measuring radar that scans a detection range (predetermined range) of approximately 190° in front of it with laser light. The area sensor 20 scans and projects laser light into area A (detection range) in a plan view, and detects objects in area A based on the reception state obtained by receiving the reflected light from the reflected laser light. For example, infrared lasers, visible lasers, ultraviolet lasers, etc. can be used as the laser light. For example, area A is a rectangular area set at a predetermined height corresponding to the lower part of a worker M's knees and having a predetermined area at a predetermined position. The area sensor 20 issues an alarm when it detects a worker M (object) in area A.

[0028] The area sensor 20 includes a light-emitting unit that emits pulsed laser light at predetermined angle θ intervals, a light-receiving unit that receives reflected light from an object after the laser light emitted by the light-emitting unit has been reflected, and a distance calculation unit that calculates the distance to the object. The distance calculation unit calculates the distance from the light-emitting unit (area sensor 20) to the object for each emission direction based on the elapsed time from when the laser light is emitted by the light-emitting unit until the reflected light is received by the light-receiving unit. More specifically, the distance calculation unit calculates the distance from the area sensor 20 to the object in proportion to the elapsed time from when the laser light is emitted until the reflected light is received.

[0029] Figure 2 is a perspective view of the area sensor 20. The area sensor 20 comprises a housing 21 and a sensor unit 40. The sensor unit 40 is cylindrical in shape. Laser light is emitted from the sensor unit 40 to the outside, and reflected light reflected by an object enters the sensor unit 40 from the inside. The housing 21 is rectangular prism-shaped (cuboid-shaped). The housing 21 has a front surface 21a, a side surface 21b, a back surface 21c, and a bottom surface 21d. Each surface is smoothly connected by a curved surface, and the connection points of each surface may be rounded.

[0030] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing how the area sensor 20 is installed on the base 13. In this case, the lower surface 21d (second surface) of the housing 21 is fixed to the upper surface of the base 13 (fixing member). A cable 31 is connected to the area sensor 20. The cable 31 includes a power supply cable for supplying power, a communication cable for sending and receiving signals, etc. Since the cable 31 cannot be pulled out from the bottom of the housing 21, the cable 31 is pulled out to the rear of the housing 21 (in the direction facing the rear surface 21c (first surface)). The same applies when the area sensor 20 is fixed (installed) on the upper surface of the floor (fixing member).

[0031] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing how the area sensor 20 is installed on the support plate 12. In this case, the back surface 21c (first surface) of the housing 21 is fixed to the front surface (front side) of the support plate 12. Since the cable 31 cannot be pulled out to the rear of the housing 21, the cable 31 is pulled out downwards from the housing 21 (in the direction of the bottom surface 21d (second surface)). The same applies when the area sensor 20 is fixed (installed) to a wall (fixing member) or to the side of a member (fixing member) that extends in the vertical direction.

[0032] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, it is desirable that the direction in which the cable 31 is pulled out can be changed (set) depending on the installation configuration of the area sensor 20. Therefore, the area sensor 20 has the following configuration to allow the direction in which the cable 31 is pulled out to be changed.

[0033] As shown in Figure 5, the area sensor 20 is equipped with a detachable part 30 that can be attached to the housing 21. The housing 21 has a section cut out where the detachable part 30 is attached. In other words, the housing 21 and the detachable part 30 are separated.

[0034] A first extended surface 21f, which is an extension of the rear surface 21c of the housing 21, and a second extended surface 21g, which is an extension of the bottom surface 21d, intersect perpendicularly. The housing 21 has a facing portion 22 that faces the intersection position P1 of the first extended surface 21f and the second extended surface 21g.

[0035] The opposing portion 22 is formed in a shape symmetrical with respect to a plane S1 (a predetermined plane) that bisects the angle α formed by the first extension surface 21f and the second extension surface 21g. The opposing portion 22 includes a first contact surface 22a and a second contact surface 22b that are symmetrical with respect to plane S1. The first contact surface 22a and the second contact surface 22b are surfaces on the same plane. The first contact surface 22a and the second contact surface 22b are surfaces inclined at 45° with respect to the first extension surface 21f. The first contact surface 22a and the second contact surface 22b are surfaces inclined at 45° with respect to the second extension surface 21g.

[0036] In the opposing portion 22, a first housing-side connector 23A is provided within the range of the first contact surface 22a. The first housing-side connector 23A is a groove-type (female) connector and opens in the direction facing the back surface 21c of the housing 21. The first housing-side connector 23A is connected via wiring to a microcontroller or the like that has the function of the distance calculation unit of the area sensor 20.

[0037] In the opposing portion 22, a second housing-side connector 23B is provided in the area of ​​the second contact surface 22b. The second housing-side connector 23B is a groove-type (female) connector and opens in the direction facing the lower surface 21d of the housing 21. The second housing-side connector 23B is provided symmetrically with respect to the first housing-side connector 23A with respect to the plane S1. The second housing-side connector 23B has the same shape as the first housing-side connector 23A and is arranged in a position and orientation symmetrical with respect to the first housing-side connector 23A with respect to the plane S1. The second housing-side connector 23B is connected via wiring to a microcontroller or the like that has the function of the distance calculation unit of the area sensor 20. That is, the connection destination of the first housing-side connector 23A and the connection destination of the second housing-side connector 23B are the same.

[0038] The attachment / detachment portion 30 is formed in a shape symmetrical with respect to plane S2. The attachment / detachment portion 30 is formed in the shape of a right-angled isosceles triangular prism. Plane S2 is the plane that bisects the right angle of the attachment / detachment portion 30, which is formed in the shape of a right-angled isosceles triangular prism. The attachment / detachment portion 30 includes a third contact surface 30a and a fourth contact surface 30b that are symmetrical with respect to plane S2. The third contact surface 30a and the fourth contact surface 30b are surfaces on the same plane. The shape and size of the third contact surface 30a are the same (approximately the same) as the shape and size of the first contact surface 22a. The shape and size of the fourth contact surface 30b are the same (approximately the same) as the shape and size of the second contact surface 22b.

[0039] The detachable section 30 includes an outlet section 30c from which the cable 31 is pulled out, and a cable-side connector 32 connected to the cable 31. The cable 31 may be connected to the cable-side connector 32 via a connector (connecting member), or the cable 31 may be directly connected to it. The cable-side connector 32 is provided in the area of ​​the third contact surface 30a of the detachable section 30. The cable-side connector 32 is a plate-type (male) connector and extends with a predetermined width in a direction inclined at 45° with respect to the third contact surface 30a, that is, in a direction parallel to the direction from which the cable 31 is pulled out. Alternatively, the first housing-side connector 23A and the second housing-side connector 23B may be plate-type (male) connectors, and the cable-side connector 32 may be a groove-type (female) connector.

[0040] The cable-side connector 32 can be connected to the first housing-side connector 23A with the lead-out portion 30c facing the same direction as the rear surface 21c of the housing 21. That is, the cable-side connector 32 can be connected to the first housing-side connector 23A when the direction the rear surface 21c is facing (left in Figure 5) and the direction the lead-out portion 30c is facing (left in Figure 5) are the same. With the cable-side connector 32 connected to the first housing-side connector 23A, the third contact surface 30a can contact the first contact surface 22a of the opposing portion 22, and the fourth contact surface 30b can contact the second contact surface 22b of the opposing portion 22. The detachable portion 30 can be attached to the opposing portion 22 with the lead-out portion 30c facing the same direction as the rear surface 21c of the housing 21.

[0041] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 6, the cable-side connector 32 can be connected to the second housing-side connector 23B with the lead-out portion 30c facing the same direction as the lower surface 21d of the housing 21. That is, the cable-side connector 32 can be connected to the second housing-side connector 23B when the direction in which the lower surface 21d faces (downward in Figure 6) and the direction in which the lead-out portion 30c faces (downward in Figure 6) are the same. With the cable-side connector 32 connected to the second housing-side connector 23B, the fourth contact surface 30b can contact the first contact surface 22a of the opposing portion 22, and the third contact surface 30a can contact the second contact surface 22b of the opposing portion 22. The detachable portion 30 can be attached to the opposing portion 22 with the lead-out portion 30c facing the same direction as the lower surface 21d of the housing 21.

[0042] As shown in Figure 7, when the cable-side connector 32 is connected to the first housing-side connector 23A from the rear of the housing 21, and the third contact surface 30a of the attachment / detachment part 30 is in contact with the first contact surface 22a of the opposing part 22, and the fourth contact surface 30b of the attachment / detachment part 30 is in contact with the second contact surface 22b of the opposing part 22, the following problem may occur if a force indicated by arrow F1 is further applied to the attachment / detachment part 30. That is, because the direction in which the cable-side connector 32 is connected to the first housing-side connector 23A (direction of arrow F1) is not perpendicular to the contact surfaces 22a, 22b, 30a, and 30b, the first contact surface 22a and the third contact surface 30a slide, and the second contact surface 22b and the fourth contact surface 30b slide. Therefore, as indicated by arrow F2, a force acts on the detachable part 30 along the contact surfaces 22a, 22b, 30a, and 30b, which may damage the first housing-side connector 23A and the cable-side connector 32, as shown in Figure 8. A similar problem may also occur when connecting the cable-side connector 32 to the second housing-side connector 23B from below the housing 21.

[0043] Therefore, as shown in Figure 9, the area sensor 20 is equipped with a first guide mechanism that guides the cable-side connector 32 toward the first housing-side connector 23A and restricts the sliding of the first contact surface 22a and the third contact surface 30a, and the sliding of the second contact surface 22b and the fourth contact surface 30b.

[0044] The first guide mechanism includes first holes 24A and 25A formed in the opposing portion 22 and extending in a first connection direction for connecting the cable-side connector 32 to the first housing-side connector 23A.

[0045] The first hole 24A is formed in the opposing portion 22 with a circular cross-section within the range of the first contact surface 22a and extends perpendicularly to the back surface 21c of the housing 21 (parallel to the bottom surface 21d). The first hole 25A is formed in the opposing portion 22 with a circular cross-section within the range of the second contact surface 22b and extends perpendicularly to the back surface 21c of the housing 21 (parallel to the bottom surface 21d).

[0046] The first guide mechanism includes pins 34 and 35 provided in the attachment / detachment section 30, extending in the first connection direction (the connection direction of the cable-side connector 32) and insertable into the first holes 24A and 25A, respectively. Pin 34 is cylindrical and mounted in the attachment / detachment section 30 within the range of the third contact surface 30a, extending in a direction inclined at 45° with respect to the third contact surface 30a, i.e., parallel to the direction in which the cable 31 is pulled out. The outer diameter of pin 34 is slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the first hole 24A. Pin 35 is cylindrical and mounted in the attachment / detachment section 30 within the range of the fourth contact surface 30b, extending in a direction inclined at 45° with respect to the fourth contact surface 30b, i.e., parallel to the direction in which the cable 31 is pulled out. The outer diameter of pin 35 is slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the first hole 25A. The relative positions of pins 34 and 35 are set such that when pin 34 is inserted into the first hole 24A, pin 35 is inserted into the first hole 25A.

[0047] The positional relationship between the first housing-side connector 23A, the cable-side connector 32, the first holes 24A and 25A, and the pins 34 and 35 is set such that the cable-side connector 32 is connected (inserted) to the first housing-side connector 23A by inserting the pin 34 into the first hole 24A and the pin 35 into the first hole 25A.

[0048] According to the first guide mechanism, when the cable-side connector 32 is brought close to the first housing-side connector 23A, pins 34 and 35 begin to enter the first holes 24A and 25A, respectively. When a portion of pin 34 is in the first hole 24A and a portion of pin 35 is in the first hole 25A, the detachable part 30 can only move in the first connection direction relative to the opposing part 22. That is, rotation of the detachable part 30 with the cable 31 as the central axis relative to the opposing part 22, and movement of the detachable part 30 in the direction along the contact surfaces 22a and 22b relative to the opposing part 22 are restricted. Then, by further inserting pin 34 into the first hole 24A and further inserting pin 35 into the first hole 25A, the cable-side connector 32 is connected to the first housing-side connector 23A. Subsequently, by further inserting pin 34 into the first hole 24A and pin 35 into the first hole 25A, the third contact surface 30a comes into contact with the first contact surface 22a, and the fourth contact surface 30b comes into contact with the second contact surface 22b. However, the sliding between the first contact surface 22a and the third contact surface 30a, and the sliding between the second contact surface 22b and the fourth contact surface 30b are restricted by the pins 34 and 35 inserted into the first holes 24A and 25A, respectively.

[0049] Similarly, the area sensor 20 includes a second guide mechanism that guides the cable-side connector 32 toward the second housing-side connector 23B and restricts the sliding of the second contact surface 22b and the third contact surface 30a, and the sliding of the first contact surface 22a and the fourth contact surface 30b. The second guide mechanism includes second holes 24B and 25B formed in the opposing portion 22 and extending in a second connection direction for connecting the cable-side connector 32 to the second housing-side connector 23B, and pins 34 and 35 provided in the attachment / detachment portion 30 that extend in the second connection direction (the connection direction of the cable-side connector 32) and can be inserted into the second holes 24B and 25B, respectively.

[0050] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram showing the detachable part 30 fixed to the housing 21 with screws 38 and 39. The opposing part 22 has screw holes 26A and 27A, into which screws 38 and 39 can be tightened, respectively, and these holes are formed to extend perpendicularly to the back surface 21c of the housing 21. The detachable part 30 has through holes 36 and 37, into which screws 38 and 39 can be inserted, respectively, and these holes are formed to extend in the direction from which the cable 31 is pulled out (the direction in which the cable-side connector 32 is connected). When the cable-side connector 32 is connected to the first housing-side connector 23A, the positions of the screw holes 26A and 27A and the positions of the through holes 36 and 37 coincide. After the cable-side connector 32 is connected to the first housing-side connector 23A, the screws 38 and 39 are inserted into the through holes 36 and 37, respectively, and the screws 38 and 39 are screwed into the screw holes 26A and 27A, respectively. As a result, the detachable part 30 is tightened by screws 38 and 39 and fixed to the opposing part 22. The screw holes 26A and 27A, the through holes 36 and 37, and the screws 38 and 39 constitute a fastener that allows the detachable part 30 to be tightened and fixed to the opposing part 22 while the cable-side connector 32 is connected to the first housing-side connector 23A. In Figures 5 to 11, the screw holes 26A and 27A, the through holes 36 and 37, and the screws 38 and 39 are not shown.

[0051] The detachable section 30 shields the first housing-side connector 23A, the second housing-side connector 23B, and the cable-side connector 32 from the outside when the cable-side connector 32 is connected to the first housing-side connector 23A. Specifically, the detachable section 30 ensures that the first housing-side connector 23A, the second housing-side connector 23B, and the cable-side connector 32 are waterproof and dustproof from the outside.

[0052] Similarly, the opposing part 22 has screw holes 26B and 27B into which screws 38 and 39 can be tightened, respectively, and these holes are formed to extend perpendicularly to the lower surface 21d of the housing 21. When pulling the cable 31 downward from the detachable part 30 (area sensor 20), the detachable part 30 is attached to the opposing part 22 as follows. With the cable-side connector 32 connected to the second housing-side connector 23B, the positions of the screw holes 26B and 27B coincide with the positions of the insertion holes 36 and 37. After the cable-side connector 32 is connected to the second housing-side connector 23B, screws 38 and 39 are inserted into the insertion holes 36 and 37, respectively, and the screws 38 and 39 are screwed into the screw holes 26B and 27B, respectively. As a result, the detachable part 30 is tightened by the screws 38 and 39 and fixed to the opposing part 22. The detachable section 30 shields the first housing-side connector 23A, the second housing-side connector 23B, and the cable-side connector 32 from the outside when the cable-side connector 32 is connected to the second housing-side connector 23B. The screw holes 26B, 27B, through holes 36, 37, and screws 38, 39 constitute a fastener that allows the detachable section 30 to be tightened and fixed to the opposing section 22 when the cable-side connector 32 is connected to the second housing-side connector 23B.

[0053] The embodiment described in detail above has the following advantages.

[0054] The opposing part 22 is provided on the housing 21 and faces the intersection point P1 where the first extension surface 21f and the second extension surface 21g intersect. The detachable part 30 includes an outlet section 30c from which the cable 31 is pulled out, and a cable-side connector 32 connected to the cable 31. The outlet section 30c can be attached to the opposing part 22 in two states: when it faces the same direction as the rear surface 21c, and when it faces the same direction as the bottom surface 21d. The first housing-side connector 23A is provided on the opposing part 22 and can be connected to the cable-side connector 32 when the outlet section 30c faces the same direction as the rear surface 21c. Therefore, by connecting the cable-side connector 32 to the first housing-side connector 23A and attaching the detachable part 30 to the opposing part 22, the cable 31 can be pulled out from the outlet section 30c of the detachable part 30 in the direction facing the rear surface 21c of the housing 21. Furthermore, the second housing-side connector 23B is provided on the opposing part 22, and the cable-side connector 32 can be connected with the pull-out part 30c facing the same direction as the lower surface 21d. Therefore, by connecting the cable-side connector 32 to the second housing-side connector 23B and attaching the detachable part 30 to the opposing part 22, the cable 31 can be pulled out from the pull-out part 30c of the detachable part 30 in the direction facing the lower surface 21d of the housing 21.

[0055] The detachable section 30 shields the first housing-side connector 23A, the second housing-side connector 23B, and the cable-side connector 32 from the outside when the cable-side connector 32 is connected to the first housing-side connector 23A, and when the cable-side connector 32 is connected to the second housing-side connector 23B. Therefore, when the cable-side connector 32 is connected to the first housing-side connector 23A, a cover is not required to shield the second housing-side connector 23B from the outside. Also, when the cable-side connector 32 is connected to the second housing-side connector 23B, a cover is not required to shield the first housing-side connector 23A from the outside. Thus, there is no risk of the housing-side connector being exposed to the outside if the cover is not attached to the housing 21, and the reliability of shielding the housing-side connectors 23A and 23B from the outside is suppressed. Furthermore, there is no need to replace any parts depending on whether the cable 31 is pulled out in the direction of the rear surface 21c of the housing 21 or in the direction of the bottom surface 21d of the housing 21. Therefore, even if the installation method of the area sensor 20 is changed from the original plan, there is no need to purchase or replace any additional parts, and a decrease in the user's work efficiency can be suppressed.

[0056] The first contact surface 22a and the second contact surface 22b of the opposing portion 22 are symmetric with respect to a plane S1 that bisects the angle α formed by the first extension surface 21f and the second extension surface 21g of the housing 21. Therefore, when the cable-side connector 32 is connected to the first housing-side connector 23A, if the third contact surface 30a can contact the first contact surface 22a and the fourth contact surface 30b can contact the second contact surface 22b, then when the fourth contact surface 30b is brought into contact with the first contact surface 22a, the third contact surface 30a can be brought into contact with the second contact surface 22b. In this respect, when the cable-side connector 32 is connected to the second housing-side connector 23B, the fourth contact surface 30b can contact the first contact surface 22a and the third contact surface 30a can contact the second contact surface 22b. Therefore, it is possible to achieve two states: one in which the cable-side connector 32 is connected to the first housing-side connector 23A and the detachable part 30 is attached to the opposing part 22, and another in which the cable-side connector 32 is connected to the second housing-side connector 23B and the detachable part 30 is attached to the opposing part 22.

[0057] The area sensor 20 includes a first guide mechanism that guides the cable-side connector 32 toward the first housing-side connector 23A and restricts the sliding of the first contact surface 22a and the third contact surface 30a and the sliding of the second contact surface 22b and the fourth contact surface 30b, and a second guide mechanism that guides the cable-side connector 32 toward the second housing-side connector 23B and restricts the sliding of the second contact surface 22b and the third contact surface 30a and the sliding of the first contact surface 22a and the fourth contact surface 30b. With this configuration, when connecting the cable-side connector 32 to the first housing-side connector 23A, the first guide mechanism guides the cable-side connector 32 toward the first housing-side connector 23A, and restricts the sliding of the first contact surface 22a and the third contact surface 30a, and the sliding of the second contact surface 22b and the fourth contact surface 30b. Therefore, even if the first contact surface 22a of the opposing part 22 and the third contact surface 30a (second contact surface 22b and fourth contact surface 30b) of the attachment / detachment part 30 are not perpendicular to the direction in which the cable-side connector 32 is connected to the first housing-side connector 23A, it is possible to suppress excessive force from being applied to the first housing-side connector 23A and the cable-side connector 32. Similarly, when connecting the cable-side connector 32 to the second housing-side connector 23B, the second guide mechanism guides the cable-side connector 32 toward the second housing-side connector 23B, and restricts the sliding of the second contact surface 22b and the third contact surface 30a, as well as the sliding of the first contact surface 22a and the fourth contact surface 30b.

[0058] The first guide mechanism includes first holes 24A and 25A formed in the opposing portion 22 and extending in a first connection direction for connecting the cable-side connector 32 to the first housing-side connector 23A, and pins 34 and 35 provided in the attachment / detachment portion 30 and extending in the connection direction of the cable-side connector 32 and insertable into the first holes 24A and 25A, respectively. The second guide mechanism includes second holes 24B and 25B formed in the opposing portion 22 and extending in a second connection direction for connecting the cable-side connector 32 to the second housing-side connector 23B, and pins 34 and 35 insertable into the second holes 24B and 25B. Therefore, the sliding between the first contact surface 22a and the third contact surface 30a, and the sliding between the second contact surface 22b and the fourth contact surface 30b can be restricted by the pins 34 and 35 inserted into the first holes 24A and 25A, respectively. Furthermore, when connecting the cable-side connector 32 to the first housing-side connector 23A, the rotation of the attachment / detachment part 30 with respect to the opposing part 22, with respect to the cable 31 as the central axis, can be restricted. Moreover, since the relative movement between the opposing part 22 and the attachment / detachment part 30 along the first contact surface 22a, second contact surface 22b, third contact surface 30a, and fourth contact surface 30b is restricted, damage to the first housing-side connector 23A, the second housing-side connector 23B, and the cable-side connector 32 can be suppressed if the user snags on the cable 31, etc. Also, if the user snags on the cable 31, etc., the force acting on the first housing-side connector 23A, the second housing-side connector 23B, and the cable-side connector 32 can be received by the pins 34 and 35, thereby suppressing damage to these connectors 23A, 23B, and 32.

[0059] The device is equipped with a fastener that allows the attachment / detachment part 30 to be tightened and fixed to the opposing part 22 when the cable-side connector 32 is connected to the first housing-side connector 23A and when the cable-side connector 32 is connected to the second housing-side connector 23B. Specifically, the fastener is configured by screw holes 26A, 27A, 26B, 27B, through holes 36, 37, and screws 38, 39, which allow the attachment / detachment part 30 to be tightened and fixed to the opposing part 22 when the cable-side connector 32 is connected to the housing-side connectors 23A and 23B. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent the opposing part 22 and the attachment / detachment part 30 from shifting after the cable-side connector 32 is connected to the first housing-side connector 23A or the second housing-side connector 23B. Therefore, it is possible to prevent damage to the first housing-side connector 23A, the second housing-side connector 23B, and the cable-side connector 32 in the event that the user snags on the cable 31, etc.

[0060] - There is no need to bend the cable 31 to change the direction in which it is pulled out from the area sensor 20, which saves space compared to configurations that require space for bending the cable 31.

[0061] Furthermore, the above embodiment can also be implemented with the following modifications. Parts identical to those in the above embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0062] As shown in Figure 12, a configuration can also be adopted in which the first contact surface 122a and the second contact surface 122b are not surfaces on the same plane. The first contact surface 122a is a surface inclined at an angle less than 45° with respect to the first extension surface 21f. The second contact surface 122b is a surface inclined at an angle less than 45° with respect to the second extension surface 21g. In this case as well, the opposing portion 22 is formed in a shape symmetric with respect to a plane S1 (a predetermined plane) that bisects the angle α made up of the first extension surface 21f and the second extension surface 21g. The first contact surface 22a and the second contact surface 22b are symmetric with respect to plane S1.

[0063] Corresponding to the above-described shape of the opposing portion 22, a configuration can be adopted in which the third contact surface 130a and the fourth contact surface 30b are not surfaces on the same plane. The shape and size of the third contact surface 130a are the same (approximately the same) as the shape and size of the first contact surface 122a. The shape and size of the fourth contact surface 130b are the same (approximately the same) as the shape and size of the second contact surface 122b. In this case as well, the attachment / detachment portion 30 is formed in a shape symmetrical with respect to the plane S2. The third contact surface 130a and the fourth contact surface 130b are symmetrical with respect to the plane S2. The above configuration can also produce the same effects as the above embodiment. It is also possible to make the first contact surface 122a a surface inclined at an angle greater than 45° with respect to the first extension surface 21f, and the second contact surface 122b a surface inclined at an angle greater than 45° with respect to the second extension surface 21g.

[0064] The first hole 25A formed in the opposing portion 22 and the pin 35 provided in the attachment / detachment portion 30 can be omitted. Alternatively, the first hole 24A formed in the opposing portion 22 and the pin 34 provided in the attachment / detachment portion 30 can be omitted. In these cases as well, the attachment / detachment portion 30 can move parallel to the first contact surface 22a and the second contact surface 22b, thereby restricting the sliding of the first contact surface 22a and the third contact surface 30a, and the sliding of the second contact surface 22b and the fourth contact surface 30b.

[0065] As shown in Figure 13, the first housing-side connector 23A may be positioned so as to open in the direction facing the first contact surface 22a of the opposing portion 22. Correspondingly, the second housing-side connector 23B is also positioned so as to open in the direction facing the second contact surface 22b of the opposing portion 22. The second housing-side connector 23B is provided symmetrically to the first housing-side connector 23A with respect to the plane S1. The second housing-side connector 23B has the same shape as the first housing-side connector 23A and is positioned and oriented symmetrically to the first housing-side connector 23A with respect to the plane S1.

[0066] The cable-side connector 32 is positioned to extend with a predetermined width in a direction perpendicular to the third contact surface 30a. The cable-side connector 32 can be connected to the first housing-side connector 23A with the lead-out portion 30c facing the same direction as the rear surface 21c of the housing 21. With the cable-side connector 32 connected to the first housing-side connector 23A, the third contact surface 30a can contact the first contact surface 22a of the opposing portion 22, and the fourth contact surface 30b can contact the second contact surface 22b of the opposing portion 22. The cable-side connector 32 can also be connected to the second housing-side connector 23B with the lead-out portion 30c facing the same direction as the bottom surface 21d of the housing 21. With the cable-side connector 32 connected to the second housing-side connector 23B, the fourth contact surface 30b can contact the first contact surface 22a of the opposing part 22, and the third contact surface 30a can contact the second contact surface 22b of the opposing part 22.

[0067] With the above configuration, the direction in which the cable-side connector 32 is connected to the first housing-side connector 23A (direction of the arrow) is perpendicular to the contact surfaces 22a, 22b, 30a, and 30b. Therefore, sliding between the first contact surface 22a and the third contact surface 30a, and sliding between the second contact surface 22b and the fourth contact surface 30b can be suppressed. Consequently, even without a guide mechanism to restrict sliding between the first contact surface 22a and the third contact surface 30a, and sliding between the second contact surface 22b and the fourth contact surface 30b, excessive force acting on these connectors 23A and 32 when connecting them to the first housing-side connector 23A can be suppressed. The same effect can also be achieved when connecting the cable-side connector 32 to the second housing-side connector 23B.

[0068] As shown in Figure 14, a configuration in which the first contact surface 222a and the second contact surface 222b are perpendicular can also be adopted. The first contact surface 222a is a surface parallel to the first extension surface 21f. The second contact surface 222b is a surface parallel to the second extension surface 21g. In this case as well, the opposing portion 22 is formed in a shape symmetric with respect to a plane S1 (a predetermined plane) that bisects the angle α made up of the first extension surface 21f and the second extension surface 21g. The first contact surface 222a and the second contact surface 222b are symmetric with respect to plane S1. The first housing-side connector 23A is provided on the opposite side of plane S1 from the first contact surface 222a (the same side as the second contact surface 222b). The second housing-side connector 23B is provided on the opposite side of plane S1 from the second contact surface 222b (the same side as the first contact surface 222a).

[0069] Corresponding to the above-mentioned shape of the opposing portion 22, the shape and size of the third contact surface 230a are the same (approximately the same) as the shape and size of the first contact surface 222a. The shape and size of the fourth contact surface 230b are the same (approximately the same) as the shape and size of the second contact surface 222b. In this case as well, the attachment / detachment portion 30 is formed in a shape that is symmetrical with respect to the plane S2. The third contact surface 230a and the fourth contact surface 230b are symmetrical with respect to the plane S2. The cable-side connector 32 is provided on the opposite side of the plane S2 from the third contact surface 230a (on the same side as the fourth contact surface 230b).

[0070] The above configuration can achieve the same effects as the above embodiment. Furthermore, since the direction in which the cable-side connector 32 is connected to the first housing-side connector 23A (direction of the arrow) is perpendicular to the contact surfaces 222a and 230a, sliding between the first contact surface 222a and the third contact surface 230a can be suppressed. Therefore, even if a guide mechanism is not provided to restrict sliding between the first contact surface 222a and the third contact surface 230a, excessive force acting on these connectors 23A and 32 when connecting them to the first housing-side connector 23A can be suppressed. The same effects can also be achieved when connecting the cable-side connector 32 to the second housing-side connector 23B.

[0071] When the cable-side connector 32 is connected to the first housing-side connector 23A, and when the cable-side connector 32 is connected to the second housing-side connector 23B, a sealing member that seals the first housing-side connector 23A, the second housing-side connector 23B, and the cable-side connector 32 from the outside may be provided on the opposing portion 22 or the attachment / detachment portion 30.

[0072] As shown in Figure 15, only one housing-side connector 23 may be arranged so as to open in the direction that the first contact surface 22a and the second contact surface 22b of the opposing portion 22 are facing. The housing-side connector 23 is formed in a symmetrical shape with respect to the plane S1.

[0073] Corresponding to the housing-side connector 23, the cable-side connector 32 is positioned to extend with a predetermined width in a direction perpendicular to the third contact surface 30a and the fourth contact surface 30b. The cable-side connector 32 is formed in a symmetrical shape with respect to the plane S2. The cable-side connector 32 can be connected to the housing-side connector 23 with its lead-out portion 30c facing the same direction as the rear surface 21c of the housing 21. With the cable-side connector 32 connected to the housing-side connector 23, the third contact surface 30a can contact the first contact surface 22a of the opposing portion 22, and the fourth contact surface 30b can contact the second contact surface 22b of the opposing portion 22. Furthermore, the cable-side connector 32 can be connected to the housing-side connector 23 with its lead-out portion 30c facing the same direction as the bottom surface 21d of the housing 21. With the cable-side connector 32 connected to the housing-side connector 23, the fourth contact surface 30b can contact the first contact surface 22a of the opposing part 22, and the third contact surface 30a can contact the second contact surface 22b of the opposing part 22.

[0074] When the cable-side connector 32 is connected to the housing-side connector 23 with the extension section 30c facing the same direction as the back surface 21c of the housing 21, and when the cable-side connector 32 is connected to the housing-side connector 23 with the extension section 30c facing the same direction as the bottom surface 21d of the housing 21, the orientation of the cable-side connector 32 relative to the housing-side connector 23 differs by 180°. This can be addressed by providing a DIP switch on the area sensor 20 to switch the input path for power and signals from the cable-side connector 32 using the DIP switch, or by automatically detecting the orientation of the cable-side connector 32 and switching the input path for power and signals from the cable-side connector 32. It is common to provide a reverse connection prevention structure to prevent the cable-side connector from being connected in the wrong direction relative to the housing-side connector. However, in the above configuration, a reverse connection prevention structure is not provided, and connection is possible even if the cable-side connector 32 is rotated 180° relative to the housing-side connector 23 (whether reversed left and right or up and down). Furthermore, the detachable section 30 shields the housing-side connector 23 and the cable-side connector 32 from the outside when the pull-out section 30c faces the same direction as the rear surface 21c and the cable-side connector 32 is connected to the housing-side connector 23, and when the pull-out section 30c faces the same direction as the bottom surface 21d and the cable-side connector 32 is connected to the housing-side connector 23.

[0075] According to the above configuration, the effects and advantages similar to those of the above embodiment can be achieved. Furthermore, since the direction in which the cable-side connector 32 is connected to the housing-side connector 23 (direction of the arrow) is perpendicular to the contact surfaces 22a, 22b, 30a, and 30b, sliding between the first contact surface 22a and the third contact surface 30a, and sliding between the second contact surface 22b and the fourth contact surface 30b can be suppressed. Therefore, even if a guide mechanism is not provided to restrict sliding between the first contact surface 22a and the third contact surface 30a, and sliding between the second contact surface 22b and the fourth contact surface 30b, excessive force acting on these connectors 23A and 32 can be suppressed when connecting the cable-side connector 32 to the housing-side connector 23 with the pull-out portion 30c facing the same direction as the back surface 21c. Furthermore, the same effect can be achieved when connecting the cable-side connector 32 to the housing-side connector 23 with the pull-out portion 30c facing the same direction as the lower surface 21d. In addition, since it is not necessary to provide two housing-side connectors on the opposing portion 22, and only one housing-side connector 23 is required, the configuration for connecting the cable-side connector 32 to the housing-side connector 23 can be simplified.

[0076] Furthermore, in the above configuration, screw holes 26A, 27A, 26B, and 27B are formed in the opposing part 22, through holes 36 and 37 are formed in the attachment / detachment part 30, and the area sensor 20 is equipped with screws 38 and 39. In other words, the area sensor 20 is equipped with a fastener that can tighten the attachment / detachment part 30 to fix it to the opposing part 22 when the pull-out part 30c is facing the same direction as the rear surface 21c and the cable-side connector 32 is connected to the housing-side connector 23, and when the pull-out part 30c is facing the same direction as the bottom surface 21d and the cable-side connector 32 is connected to the housing-side connector 23.Therefore, it is possible to prevent the opposing part 22 and the attachment / detachment part 30 from shifting after the cable-side connector 32 is connected to the housing-side connector 23 when the pull-out part 30c is facing the same direction as the rear surface 21c or when the pull-out part 30c is facing the same direction as the bottom surface 21d. Therefore, damage to the housing-side connector 23 and the cable-side connector 32 can be prevented if a user trips over the cable 31, etc.

[0077] - In the opposing portion 22, portions other than the first contact surfaces 22a, 122a, 222a and the second contact surfaces 22b, 122b, 222b do not need to be symmetrical with respect to plane S1 (a predetermined plane). In the detachable portion 30, portions other than the third contact surfaces 30a, 130a, 230a and the fourth contact surfaces 30b, 130b, 230b do not need to be symmetrical with respect to plane S2.

[0078] - When the pull-out section 30c faces the same direction as the rear surface 21c and the cable-side connector 32 is connected to the housing-side connector 23, and when the pull-out section 30c faces the same direction as the bottom surface 21d and the cable-side connector 32 is connected to the housing-side connector 23, a sealing member that seals the housing-side connector 23 and the cable-side connector 32 from the outside may be provided on the opposing section 22 or the attachment / detachment section 30.

[0079] Instead of a fastener composed of screw holes 26A, 27A, 26B, 27B, through holes 36, 37, and screws 38, 39, a hook-and-loop fastener that can be attached and detached surfacely can be provided on the opposing part 22 and the attachment / detachment part 30. Alternatively, the opposing part 22 and the attachment / detachment part 30 can be bonded together with double-sided tape or the like.

[0080] The direction in which the cable 31 is routed from the area sensor 20 is not limited to the rear and bottom of the area sensor 20. For example, the cable 31 can also be routed to the side and bottom of the area sensor 20. In that case, the housing 21 should be provided with a facing portion 22 so as to face the intersection point where the extended surface (first extended surface) obtained by extending the side surface 21b (first surface) of the housing 21 intersects with the extended surface (second extended surface) obtained by extending the bottom surface 21d (second surface). The cable 31 can also be routed from the rear and side of the area sensor 20. In that case, the housing 21 should be provided with a facing portion 22 so as to face the intersection point where the extended surface (first extended surface) obtained by extending the back surface 21c (first surface) intersects with the extended surface (second extended surface) obtained by extending the side surface 21b (second surface). Furthermore, the shape of the housing 21 is not limited to a rectangular prism (cuboid), but may be a triangular prism, a hexagonal prism, etc. In that case as well, the cable 31 can be routed to the rear and downward of the area sensor 20, to the side and downward, or to the rear and side.

[0081] The area sensor 20 is not limited to a distance measuring radar that scans the detection range with laser light, but may also be a distance measuring radar (object detection device) that scans the detection range with millimeter waves, a distance measuring radar (object detection device) that scans the detection range with ultrasound, or an object detection device that detects objects based on images captured by a camera within the detection range. In these object detection devices as well, the orientation and location of installation are constrained by the relationship with the monitoring area where objects are detected, so the appropriate direction for pulling the cable out from the object detection device changes depending on the installation configuration of the object detection device. Therefore, it is effective to apply the above embodiments and their modifications to these object detection devices as well. Furthermore, the area sensor 20 may be installed outdoors, not just indoors.

[0082] Furthermore, the above embodiments and their modifications can be combined and implemented to the extent possible. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0083] 20... Area sensor (object detection device), 21... Housing, 21c... Rear (first side), 21d... Bottom (second side), 21f... First extension surface, 21g... Second extension surface, 22... Opposing part, 22a... First contact surface, 22b... Second contact surface, 23... Housing side connector, 23A... First housing side connector, 23B... Second housing side connector, 30... Detachable part, 30a... Third contact surface, 30b... Fourth contact surface, 30c... Pull-out part, 31... Cable, 32... Cable side connector, 122a... First contact surface, 122b... Second contact surface, 130a... Third contact surface, 130b... Fourth contact surface, 222a... First contact surface, 222b... Second contact surface, 230a... Third contact surface, 230b... Fourth contact surface.

Claims

1. An object detection device comprising a housing having a first surface and a second surface, wherein a first extended surface extending from the first surface and a second extended surface extending from the second surface intersect, and the first surface or the second surface is fixed to a fixing member and a cable is connected, The housing is provided with a facing portion that faces the intersection point where the first extended surface and the second extended surface intersect, The cable includes an outlet from which the cable is drawn out, and a cable-side connector connected to the cable, and the outlet is oriented in the same direction as the first surface, and the outlet is oriented in the same direction as the second surface, and the outlet is oriented in the same direction as the second surface, A first housing-side connector is provided on the opposing portion, and the cable-side connector can be connected to it with the pull-out portion facing the same direction as the first surface, A second housing-side connector is provided on the opposing portion, and the cable-side connector can be connected to it with the pull-out portion facing the same direction as the second surface, Equipped with, The attachment / detachment portion is an object detection device that shields the first housing-side connector, the second housing-side connector, and the cable-side connector from the outside when the cable-side connector is connected to the first housing-side connector and when the cable-side connector is connected to the second housing-side connector.

2. The opposing portion includes a first contact surface and a second contact surface that are symmetrical with respect to a predetermined plane that bisects the angle between the first extension surface and the second extension surface, The detachable portion includes a third contact surface that can contact the first contact surface and a fourth contact surface that can contact the second contact surface when the cable-side connector is connected to the first housing-side connector. The object detection device according to claim 1, wherein, with the cable-side connector connected to the second housing-side connector, the fourth contact surface is capable of contacting the first contact surface, and the third contact surface is capable of contacting the second contact surface.

3. A first guide mechanism guides the cable-side connector toward the first housing-side connector and restricts the sliding of the first contact surface and the third contact surface and the sliding of the second contact surface and the fourth contact surface. The object detection device according to claim 2, further comprising: a second guide mechanism that guides the cable-side connector toward the second housing-side connector and restricts the sliding of the second contact surface and the third contact surface and the sliding of the first contact surface and the fourth contact surface.

4. The first guide mechanism includes a first hole formed in the opposing portion and extending in a first connection direction for connecting the cable-side connector to the first housing-side connector, and a pin provided in the attachment / detachment portion and extending in the connection direction of the cable-side connector and insertable into the first hole. The object detection device according to claim 3, wherein the second guide mechanism includes a second hole formed in the opposing portion and extending in a second connection direction for connecting the cable-side connector to the second housing-side connector, and a pin that can be inserted into the second hole.

5. The object detection device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, comprising a fastener capable of tightening the detachable portion and fixing it to the opposing portion when the cable-side connector is connected to the first housing-side connector and when the cable-side connector is connected to the second housing-side connector.

6. An object detection device comprising a housing having a first surface and a second surface, wherein a first extended surface extending from the first surface and a second extended surface extending from the second surface intersect, and the first surface or the second surface is fixed to a fixing member and a cable is connected, The housing is provided with a facing portion that faces the intersection point where the first extended surface and the second extended surface intersect, The cable includes an outlet from which the cable is drawn out, and a cable-side connector connected to the cable, and the outlet is oriented in the same direction as the first surface, and the outlet is oriented in the same direction as the second surface, and the outlet is oriented in the same direction as the second surface, A housing-side connector is provided on the opposing portion, and the cable-side connector can be connected when the pull-out portion is facing the same direction as the first surface and when the pull-out portion is facing the same direction as the second surface. The attachment / detachment portion is an object detection device that shields the housing-side connector and the cable-side connector from the outside when the pull-out portion faces the same direction as the first surface and the cable-side connector is connected to the housing-side connector, and when the pull-out portion faces the same direction as the second surface and the cable-side connector is connected to the housing-side connector.

7. The opposing portion includes a first contact surface and a second contact surface that are symmetrical with respect to a predetermined plane that bisects the angle between the first extension surface and the second extension surface, The detachable portion includes a third contact surface that can contact the first contact surface and a fourth contact surface that can contact the second contact surface, with the pull-out portion facing the same direction as the first surface and the cable-side connector connected to the housing-side connector. The object detection device according to claim 6, wherein the pull-out portion faces the same direction as the second surface and the cable-side connector is connected to the housing-side connector, the fourth contact surface is capable of contacting the first contact surface, and the third contact surface is capable of contacting the second contact surface.

8. The object detection device according to claim 6 or 7, further comprising a fastener capable of tightening the detachable portion and fixing it to the opposing portion when the pull-out portion is facing the same direction as the first surface and the cable-side connector is connected to the housing-side connector, and when the pull-out portion is facing the same direction as the second surface and the cable-side connector is connected to the housing-side connector.

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