Inspection system for comb plate of passenger conveyor

Abstract

Provided is an inspection system that better facilitates the discovery of an abnormality of a comb plate in a captured image. An inspection system (15) comprises a camera (29) and a control unit (20). The camera (29) is permanently installed on a passenger conveyor (1). The camera (29) photographs a comb plate (3). The control unit (20) receives, from a control device (11) of the passenger conveyor (1), a control signal representing one or both of braking and releasing of a brake (10) of a drive device (6). The control unit (20) executes an inspection process using the control signal as a trigger. In the inspection process, the control unit (20) causes the camera (29) to photograph the comb plate (3).

Description

Passenger conveyor comb plate inspection system

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a passenger conveyor comb plate inspection system.

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an example of a monitoring device for a comb plate of a passenger conveyor. The monitoring device is equipped with a camera that photographs the comb plate. The monitoring device determines whether the comb plate is normal or abnormal by comparing the image of the comb plate photographed by the camera with an image of the comb plate under normal conditions.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2006-27790

[0004] In the monitoring device of Patent Document 1, the camera captures an image of the comb plate when the same step passes through a predetermined location in the same operating direction so that the image can be compared with an image of the comb plate under normal conditions. Since the captured image of the comb plate is always in the same positional relationship with the same step, if there is an abnormality that is difficult to see due to its positional relationship with the step, the abnormality may be difficult to discover.

[0005] The present disclosure relates to solving such problems, and provides an inspection system that makes it easier to find abnormalities in the comb plate in captured images.

[0006] The inspection system for the comb plate of a passenger conveyor according to the present disclosure includes a camera that is permanently installed on the passenger conveyor and photographs the comb plate, and a control unit that receives a control signal from the passenger conveyor control device that indicates either or both of the application and release of the brake of the drive device, and causes the camera to photograph the comb plate in an inspection process triggered by the control signal.

[0007] According to the passenger conveyor comb plate inspection system of the present disclosure, abnormalities in the comb plate can be more easily detected in captured images.

[0008] 1 is a configuration diagram of a passenger conveyor according to embodiment 1. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a boarding / exiting door of the passenger conveyor according to embodiment 1. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a photographing device according to embodiment 1. FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of a main part of the passenger conveyor to which the photographing device according to embodiment 1 is attached. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a main part of the passenger conveyor to which the photographing device according to embodiment 1 is attached. FIG. 6 is a diagram explaining the mounting position of the photographing device according to embodiment 1. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the inspection system according to embodiment 1. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of an image of a comb plate photographed by the photographing device according to embodiment 1. FIG. 9 is a hardware configuration diagram of a main part of the inspection system according to embodiment 1.

[0009] The embodiments for carrying out the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In each drawing, the same or corresponding parts are designated by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations are appropriately simplified or omitted. Note that the subject matter of the present disclosure is not limited to the following embodiments, and any component of the embodiments may be modified or omitted within the scope of the gist of the present disclosure.

[0010] First Embodiment Fig. 1 is a configuration diagram of a passenger conveyor 1 according to a first embodiment.

[0011] The passenger conveyor 1 is, for example, an inclined escalator spanning between upper and lower floors of a building. In this case, the passenger conveyor 1 transports passengers between the upper and lower floors. Entrances 2 for the passenger conveyor 1 are provided on the upper and lower floors of the building. The entrances 2 are locations where passengers board and disembark from the passenger conveyor 1. One entrance 2 is the departure entrance 2 where passengers board the passenger conveyor 1. The other entrance 2 is the arrival entrance 2 where passengers disembark from the passenger conveyor 1. A comb plate 3 is provided on the inside in the front-to-rear direction at each entrance 2. The comb plate 3 is arranged across the entire width in the left-to-right direction of the portion of the passenger conveyor 1 that transports passengers. The comb plate 3 has a plurality of comb teeth 4. In this example, the plurality of comb teeth 4 are arranged at equal intervals in the left-to-right direction of the passenger conveyor 1. The passenger conveyor 1 includes a truss 5, a drive device 6, a plurality of steps 7, a pair of balustrades 8, a pair of moving handrails 9, a brake 10, and a control device 11.

[0012] The truss 5 is a long portion of the passenger conveyor 1 in the front-to-rear direction, which serves as a frame supporting the structure of the passenger conveyor 1. In this example, the truss 5 spans between the upper and lower floors of the building. One front-to-rear end of the truss 5 is the end on the upper floor side. The other front-to-rear end of the truss 5 is the end on the lower floor side. An upper machine room 12a is provided at the end of the truss 5 on the upper floor side. A lower machine room 12b is provided at the end of the truss 5 on the lower floor side.

[0013] The drive device 6 includes a device such as a motor that generates a drive force. In this example, the drive device 6 is disposed in the upper machine room 12a. The drive device 6, for example, drives and rotates a sprocket 13 in the upper machine room 12a. An endless drive chain 14 is wound around the sprocket 13. The drive device 6 generates a drive force to circulate the drive chain 14.

[0014] Each step 7 is a device that moves cyclically by a driving force generated by a drive unit 6. For example, each step 7 is attached to a drive chain 14 that is driven by the drive unit 6, and moves cyclically together with the drive chain 14. Each step 7 moves on an outward path from the departure side boarding / alighting entrance 2 to the arrival side boarding / alighting entrance 2, and moves on a return path that is lower than the outward path from the arrival side boarding / alighting entrance 2 to the departure side boarding / alighting entrance 2. Cleats are provided on the surface of each step 7 along the front-to-rear direction. At the departure side boarding / alighting entrance 2, each step 7 extends from below the comb plate 3, with the comb teeth 4 of the comb plate 3 engaging with the cleats on the surface via a gap. At the arrival side boarding / alighting entrance 2, each step 7 enters below the comb plate 3, with the comb teeth 4 of the comb plate 3 engaging with the cleats on the surface via a gap. The multiple steps 7 are arranged in a staircase pattern on the outward path.

[0015] One of the balustrades 8 is disposed on the left side of the steps 7. The other balustrade 8 is disposed on the right side of the steps 7. In other words, the pair of balustrades 8 are disposed on the outer sides of the steps 7 in the left-right direction.

[0016] Each moving handrail 9 is a device that moves in a circular motion by the driving force generated by the drive unit 6. Each moving handrail 9 moves on an outward path from the departure side boarding / alighting gate 2 to the arrival side boarding / alighting gate 2, and moves on a return path that is lower than the outward path from the arrival side boarding / alighting gate 2 to the departure side boarding / alighting gate 2. Each moving handrail 9 is made of a flexible annular member. One moving handrail 9 is disposed on the left side of the multiple steps 7. The other moving handrail 9 is disposed on the right side of the multiple steps 7.

[0017] The brake 10 is a device that is responsible for keeping each step 7 stationary when the passenger conveyor 1 is stopped. In this example, the brake 10 is disposed in the upper machine room 12a. The brake 10 keeps each step 7 stationary, for example, by braking the rotation of the sprocket 13 of the drive unit 6.

[0018] The control device 11 controls the operation of the passenger conveyor 1. In this example, the control device 11 is located in the upper machine room 12a. When the passenger conveyor 1 is started, the control device 11 outputs a signal to the drive device 6 to start driving and a signal to the brake 10 to release the sprocket 13, etc. This releases each step 7 from its stationary state, and each step 7 begins to move in a circular motion. During subsequent normal operation, the passenger conveyor 1 transports passengers who are standing on one of the steps 7 while holding onto one of the moving handrails 9, for example, by using the driving force generated by the drive device 6 under the control of the control device 11. At this time, each step 7 moves in the forward direction, for example, at a preset normal speed. Each moving handrail 9 moves in a circular motion at a moving speed that matches the step 7. When the passenger conveyor 1 is stopped, the control device 11 outputs a signal to the drive device 6 to stop driving and a signal to the brake 10 to brake the sprocket 13, etc. As a result, each step 7 stops its circulating movement and is held stationary. The passenger conveyor 1 is started and stopped by, for example, operating a key switch. The passenger conveyor 1 is started and stopped when no passengers are on board.

[0019] An inspection system 15 is applied to the passenger conveyor 1. The inspection system 15 is a system used for inspecting the passenger conveyor 1. The inspection system 15 is equipped with a function for acquiring information such as images or audio of the passenger conveyor 1 so that, for example, a maintenance worker or the like can perform a visual inspection of the passenger conveyor 1 from a remote location. The inspection system 15 is newly applied to, for example, an existing passenger conveyor 1. The inspection system 15 may also be applied to a newly installed passenger conveyor 1 from the beginning of installation. The inspection system 15 includes a sound pickup device 16, a photographing device 17, an inspection panel 18, and a communication device 19.

[0020] The sound collection device 16 is a device that collects information such as sounds generated from the passenger conveyor 1, for example, at the time of startup, normal operation, and stoppage. The sound collection device 16 includes, for example, a microphone. The sound collection device 16 is disposed in, for example, the upper machine room 12a so as to be able to collect sounds generated by the drive unit 6, the brake 10, and the like.

[0021] The photographing device 17 is a device that acquires information such as images of the passenger conveyor 1, for example, at startup, during normal operation, and when stopped. The photographing device 17 is permanently installed at one or both of the departure and arrival side boarding / alighting doors 2 so that it can capture images of the comb plate 3. The images captured by the photographing device 17 are used for inspections such as checking whether the comb teeth 4 of the comb plate 3 are broken.

[0022] The inspection panel 18 is a device that performs information processing in the inspection system 15. Information processing in the inspection system 15 includes, for example, controlling the operation of the sound collection device 16 and the image capture device 17. Information processing in the inspection system 15 includes, for example, managing the storage, accumulation, deletion, updating, and input / output of acquired information. The inspection panel 18 is disposed in one or both of the upper machine room 12a and the lower machine room 12b. The inspection panel 18 includes a control unit 20 and a memory unit 21. The control unit 20 controls the operation of the sound collection device 16 and the image capture device 17. The memory unit 21 accumulates and stores information acquired by the sound collection device 16 and the image capture device 17. The memory unit 21 may delete stored information that has been acquired for a predetermined period of time by, for example, overwriting it with newly acquired information. The inspection panel 18 is connected to the control device 11 so that the control unit 20 can acquire control signals and the like that the control device 11 of the passenger conveyor 1 outputs to equipment of the passenger conveyor 1, such as the brake 10. The inspection panel 18 is connected to the sound collection device 16 and the image capture device 17 so that it can output control signals such as operation commands and can acquire information that has been collected and photographed.

[0023] The communication device 19 is a device that communicates information with devices external to the inspection system 15. The communication device 19 is an example of a communication unit in the inspection system 15. The communication device 19 is connected to the inspection panel 18 so as to be able to input and output information. The communication device 19 is connected to a wide-area communication network such as the Internet or a telephone network, or a local communication network such as a LAN (Local Area Network). The communication device 19 is connected to a communication network such as the LTE standard (LTE: Long Term Evolution). In this example, the communication device 19 transmits information such as images or audio of the passenger conveyor 1 stored in the memory unit 21 of the inspection panel 18 in response to a request from a maintenance worker or the like who performs a visual inspection of the passenger conveyor 1 from a remote location. The request from the maintenance worker or the like is transmitted to the communication device 19 from a computer or the like external to the inspection system 15 via a communication network such as the Internet.

[0024] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the entrance / exit door 2 of the passenger conveyor 1 according to the first embodiment.

[0025] Each balustrade 8 includes a handrail guide 22, an inner plate 23, a skirt guard 24, and an inner deck 25. The handrail guide 22 is a member that guides the movement of the moving handrail 9. The inner plate 23 is disposed below the moving handrail 9 and the handrail guide 22. The inner plate 23 faces passengers riding on the passenger conveyor 1 from the left and right. The skirt guard 24 is disposed on the side of the step 7. The surface of the skirt guard 24 of the right balustrade 8 faces the side of the step 7 from the right side. The surface of the skirt guard 24 of the left balustrade 8 faces the side of the step 7 from the left side. The skirt guard 24 is a plate-shaped member whose longitudinal direction is the direction of travel of the step 7. The skirt guard 24 is disposed vertically. The inner deck 25 is a plate-shaped member provided between the upper end of the skirt guard 24 and the lower end of the inner plate 23. In each parapet 8, the inside of the portion surrounded by the skirt guard 24, inner deck 25, etc. is connected to the inside of the truss 5.

[0026] The skirt guard 24 includes a comb skirt 26. The comb skirt 26 is a plate-shaped member disposed on the left-right outer side of the comb plate 3 at the boarding / alighting door 2. The comb skirt 26 is attached to the left-right outer side of the position where the comb plate 3 is provided. The surface of the comb skirt 26 of the right-side balustrade 8 faces the left end of the comb plate 3 from the right side. The surface of the comb skirt 26 of the left-side balustrade 8 faces the right end of the comb plate 3 from the left side. In other words, the comb plate 3 is disposed between the comb skirts 26 of the left and right balustrades 8 in the left-right direction. The back surface of the comb skirt 26 of the right-side balustrade 8 faces the right side and is not visible to passengers on the passenger conveyor 1. The back surface of the comb skirt 26 of the left-side balustrade 8 faces the left side and is not visible to passengers on the passenger conveyor 1. Here, the comb skirt 26 of either the left or right balustrade 8 is an example of a first comb skirt. The comb skirt 26 of the other of the left and right balustrades 8 is an example of a second comb skirt. The first comb skirt and the second comb skirt face each other with the comb plate 3 in between.

[0027] At least one of the comb skirts 26 may be provided with a comlight 27 and an operation unit 28. The comlight 27 is a lighting device that illuminates the vicinity of the comb plate 3 at the boarding / alighting entrance 2. The operation unit 28 includes, for example, buttons or switches that are operated when starting or stopping the passenger conveyor 1, in an emergency, during inspection, or in other cases. The operation unit 28 may be provided with a button cover or the like.

[0028] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the imaging device 17 according to the first embodiment.

[0029] The photographing device 17 includes a camera 29 and a fixed box 30. In this example, the photographing device 17 is attached to the rear side of the first comb skirt, which is one of the left and right comb skirts 26.

[0030] The camera 29 includes, for example, a lens and an image pickup element so as to be able to capture an image of the comb plate 3. In this example, the camera 29 captures a still image of the comb plate 3 under the control of the control unit 20.

[0031] The fixed box 30 is a part that fixes the camera 29. The fixed box 30 includes an outer box 31, an internal support 32, and a hiding plate 33.

[0032] The outer box 31 is a box-shaped member that forms the outer shell of the fixed box 30. The outer box 31 houses the camera 29 inside. The outer box 31 is attached to the back side of the comb skirt 26, for example, with screws, so that the front side faces the back side of the comb skirt 26. In this example, the outer box 31 is screwed to the comb skirt 26 using two tabs 34 provided on the front side. A recess 35 is provided on the front side of the outer box 31. The tabs 34 of the outer box 31 are provided, for example, on the edge of the recess 35. A photography port 39 is provided on the front side of the outer box 31. The camera 29 photographs the comb plate 3 through the photography port 39 from inside the outer box 31. A wire inlet 36 is provided on the bottom of the outer box 31. The wire inlet 36 is an opening through which communication lines, power supply lines, and the like wired to the camera 29 pass.

[0033] The internal support 32 is a member that supports the camera 29 inside the outer box 31. The internal support 32 is, for example, a curved plate-like member. The internal support 32 has a base 37 and a support portion 38. The base 37 is a lower portion of the internal support 32. The base 37 is fixed to the bottom of the outer box 31, for example. The base 37 is arranged inside the outer box 31 so as to rise vertically. The support portion 38 is a portion to which the camera 29 is attached. The support portion 38 is an upper portion of the internal support 32. The support portion 38 is a portion that is bent from the vertical direction toward the front of the fixed box 30. The normal to the front surface of the support portion 38 faces downward. By attaching the camera 29 to the front surface of the support portion 38, the camera 29 is fixed so as to face downward. The internal support 32 is placed inside the outer box 31 while supporting the camera 29.

[0034] The concealing plate 33 is a translucent plate-like member. The concealing plate 33 is, for example, an acrylic flat plate. In this example, the color of the concealing plate 33 is different from the color of the comb plate 3. For example, if the comb plate 3 is yellow, a blue-smoke acrylic plate or the like is used as the concealing plate 33. The concealing plate 33 is attached to the front of the fixed box 30 so as to cover the shooting opening 39. The thickness of the concealing plate 33 does not exceed the height of the edge of the recess 35 on the front of the fixed box 30. In other words, the concealing plate 33 is attached so as to fit within the recess 35. The thickness of the concealing plate 33 may be the same as the height of the edge of the recess 35 on the front of the fixed box 30.

[0035] 4 is an enlarged view of a main part of the passenger conveyor 1 to which the photographing device 17 according to the embodiment 1 is attached. In FIG. 4, the com skirt 26 to which the photographing device 17 is attached on the back side is shown.

[0036] The fixed box 30 of the imaging device 17 is attached to the back side of the comb skirt 26 with the camera 29 fixed inside. In this example, the imaging device 17 is attached above the comb light 27. In this figure, an imaginary plane V is shown, which is a vertical plane parallel to the left-right direction of the passenger conveyor 1 and passing through the comb plate 3. The camera 29 of the imaging device 17 is arranged within the plane of the imaginary plane V.

[0037] A photographing window 40 is provided in the comb skirt 26 to which the photographing device 17 is attached. The photographing window 40 is covered by a concealing plate 33 from the rear side of the comb skirt 26. In this case, the concealing plate 33 may be in contact with the edge of the photographing window 40. The camera 29 photographs the comb plate 3 from the rear side of the comb skirt 26 through the concealing plate 33 and the photographing window 40.

[0038] 5 is a cross-sectional view of a main part of the passenger conveyor 1 to which the photographing device 17 according to the embodiment 1 is attached. In FIG. 5, a cross-sectional view taken along the imaginary plane V in FIG. 4 is shown.

[0039] The fixed box 30 is housed behind the comb skirt 26 and does not protrude from the front surface of the comb skirt 26 inward in the left-right direction of the passenger conveyor 1. The fixed box 30 fixes the camera 29 above the upper end of the photographing window 40. The fixed box 30 fixes the camera 29 inside with the camera 29 facing downward so as to face the comb plate 3. The camera 29 photographs the comb plate 3 through the photographing window 40 from outside the comb skirt 26 in the left-right direction and above the comb plate 3.

[0040] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating the mounting position of the imaging device 17 according to the first embodiment.

[0041] The camera 29 of the photographing device 17 photographs the comb plate 3 from above so that each individual comb tooth 4 can be identified in the image. Here, the pitch of the comb teeth 4 is d, the height of the camera 29 from the comb plate 3 is H, and the distance from the camera 29 to any one of the comb teeth 4 is R. The line connecting the camera 29 and the corresponding comb tooth 4 forms an angle θ with the horizontal plane. Since the distance R to the camera 29 is sufficiently far compared to the pitch d of the comb teeth 4, adjacent comb teeth 4 can be evaluated as appearing to be separated by d×sinθ in the image photographed by the camera 29. In order to identify adjacent comb teeth 4, the spacing on the image needs to be greater than the resolution x of the camera 29, and therefore the condition d×sinθ>x needs to be satisfied. Here, the resolution x of the camera 29 is determined, for example, by the angle of view, resolution, and photographing position of the camera 29, and represents the length that can be identified in the photographed image. Furthermore, since sinθ=H / R, the camera 29 is positioned so that the condition H / R>x / d is satisfied, i.e., so that the ratio of the height H of the camera 29 to the distance R is greater than the ratio of the resolution x of the camera 29 to the pitch d of the comb teeth 4.

[0042] The distance R may be, for example, the distance from the camera 29 to the comb tooth 4 located in the center of the passenger conveyor 1 on the left and right sides. At this time, the comb plate 3 is photographed so that the comb tooth 4 in the center, where breakage is likely to occur due to the passage of passengers, can be identified, thereby more reliably checking whether the comb tooth 4 is broken. The distance R may be, for example, the distance from the camera 29 to the comb tooth 4 located at a position three-quarters of the width between the left and right comb skirts 26, on which the photographing device 17 is provided. At this time, the comb plate 3 is photographed so that the comb tooth 4 located in a position where breakage is likely to occur due to the passage of passengers lined up in two rows on the left and right sides can be identified, thereby more reliably checking whether the comb tooth 4 is broken. The distance R may be, for example, the distance from the camera 29 to the comb tooth 4 located at the end opposite to the comb skirt 26 on which the photographing device 17 is provided. At this time, the comb plate 3 is photographed so that the entire comb tooth 4 of the comb plate 3 can be identified, thereby more reliably checking whether the comb tooth 4 is broken. Even in areas where individual comb teeth 4 cannot be identified on the image, a maintenance worker can visually check whether any comb teeth 4 are broken, for example, based on the shading of the color of the image of the comb teeth 4 and the change or continuity of that color. The photographing devices 17 may be provided on the backsides of the comb skirts 26 on both the left and right sides. In this case, if each photographing device 17 can identify the comb teeth 4 up to the center on the left and right sides, the photographing devices 17 on both the left and right sides can acquire images in which the comb teeth 4 across the entire width on both sides can be identified.

[0043] Next, an example of a method for attaching the imaging device 17 will be described. In this example, the inspection system 15 is newly applied to an existing passenger conveyor 1.

[0044] The worker performing the installation work removes the existing comb skirt 26 from the passenger conveyor 1. At this time, the worker may also remove the comb plate 3, the steps 7, and the like from the passenger conveyor 1.

[0045] The worker then attaches the fixed box 30 for the imaging device 17 to the back side of the newly installed com skirt 26. At this time, the fixed box 30 has the camera 29 fixed inside. The newly installed com skirt 26 has a photography window 40. The worker aligns the concealing plate 33 with the position of the photography window 40 and attaches the fixed box 30 by screwing the two tabs 34, for example.

[0046] Thereafter, the worker attaches the newly installed com skirt 26 with the fixed box 30 attached to the passenger conveyor 1.

[0047] Next, an example of inspection of the passenger conveyor 1 using the inspection system 15 will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0048] Fig. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the inspection system 15 according to embodiment 1. Fig. 8 is a diagram showing an example of an image of the comb plate 3 captured by the imaging device 17 according to embodiment 1.

[0049] In step S1 of FIG. 7 , the control unit 20 determines whether or not it has received a control signal output from the control device 11 of the passenger conveyor 1 to the brake 10. The control signal may be, for example, a control signal that indicates application of the brake 10 and causes the brake 10 to be braked, or a control signal that indicates release of the brake 10 and causes the brake 10 to be released. The control signal may be, for example, a control signal that indicates application and release of the brake 10. The control signal may be, for example, a control signal that causes the brake 10 to be switched between application and release. The control signal is received, for example, when the passenger conveyor 1 is started or stopped. When the control unit 20 determines that it has not received a control signal from the control device 11, the processing of the inspection system 15 proceeds to step S1 again. On the other hand, when the control unit 20 determines that it has received a control signal from the control device 11, the processing of the inspection system 15 proceeds to step S2.

[0050] In step S2, the control unit 20 executes a recording process. In the recording process, the control unit 20 causes the sound collection device 16 to start capturing sound. The sound collection device 16 stops capturing sound after a preset time has elapsed from the start. This time may be, for example, the time from when the brake 10 is released until the moving speed of the steps 7 reaches a certain rated speed, the time from when the brake 10 is applied until the steps 7 completely stop, or a certain period of time that is sufficiently long and includes these times. The control unit 20 acquires information about the sound captured by the sound collection device 16. In the recording process, the control unit 20 may, for example, perform post-processing on the sound information acquired from the sound collection device 16. The post-processing may include, for example, encoding. Thereafter, the processing of the inspection system 15 proceeds to step S3.

[0051] In step S3, the control unit 20 executes an audio recording process. In the audio recording process, the control unit 20 stores the audio information acquired from the sound collection device 16 after necessary post-processing in the storage unit 21. The storage unit 21 accumulates and stores the information output from the control unit 20 for, for example, a predetermined number of days. Thereafter, the process of the inspection system 15 proceeds to step S4.

[0052] In step S4, the control unit 20 executes an image capturing process. In the image capturing process, the control unit 20 causes the image capturing device 17 to capture an image. The camera 29 of the image capturing device 17 captures a still image of the comb plate 3 based on an instruction from the control unit 20. In the image capturing process, the control unit 20 may, for example, perform post-processing of the image information captured from the image capturing device 17. The post-processing includes, for example, a format conversion process or a compression process. Thereafter, the process of the inspection system 15 proceeds to step S5.

[0053] In step S5, the control unit 20 executes an image recording process. In the image recording process, the control unit 20 stores information about the image acquired from the imaging device 17 after necessary post-processing in the storage unit 21. The storage unit 21 accumulates and stores the information output from the control unit 20 for, for example, a predetermined number of days. Thereafter, the process of the inspection system 15 proceeds to step S1.

[0054] The processes from step S2 to step S5 are an example of an inspection process that is started in response to a control signal output from the control device 11 to the brake 10 as a trigger. The inspection process includes a preceding process that is started immediately after the control signal. The processes from step S2 to step S3 are an example of a preceding process. The preceding process may include other processes. The photographing process of step S4 is started after the preceding process is completed.

[0055] FIG. 8 shows an example of an image of the comb plate 3 in a state where the comb teeth 4 are broken, taken by the photographing device 17.

[0056] When inspecting the passenger conveyor 1 from a remote location, the maintenance worker requests the communication device 19 to transmit information via an information terminal device operated by the worker and a server computer connected to the information terminal device. The communication device 19 returns information such as an image of the comb plate 3 stored in the storage unit 21 of the inspection panel 18 to the information terminal device operated by the maintenance worker. The information terminal device of the maintenance worker receives, for example, the image of the comb plate 3 shown in FIG. 8 from the communication device 19.

[0057] The maintenance worker visually checks the image of the comb plate 3 displayed on the information terminal device to check whether or not the comb teeth 4 are broken. If the comb teeth 4 are broken, the maintenance worker takes action such as replacing the comb plate 3. If the comb teeth 4 are not broken, the maintenance worker creates an inspection report stating that there are no abnormalities in the comb plate 3, such as broken comb teeth 4.

[0058] The maintenance worker may also perform other inspections. For example, the maintenance worker visually checks the operation unit 28 shown in the image of the comb plate 3 to check whether there is any abnormality in the operation unit 28, such as damage or dirt.

[0059] As described above, the inspection system 15 according to the first embodiment includes the camera 29 and the control unit 20. The camera 29 is permanently installed on the passenger conveyor 1. The camera 29 photographs the comb plate 3. The control unit 20 receives a control signal representing either or both of the application and release of the brake 10 of the drive device 6 from the control device 11 of the passenger conveyor 1. The control unit 20 executes an inspection process triggered by the control signal. The control unit 20 causes the camera 29 to photograph the comb plate 3 during the inspection process.

[0060] With this configuration, the inspection system 15 captures an image of the comb plate 3 when a control signal for the brake 10 is output from the control device 11. The control signal for the brake 10 is output regardless of the position of the step 7. Therefore, each time a control signal for the brake 10 is output, an image of the comb plate 3 is captured when the cleats of different steps 7 are engaged with the comb teeth 4 at different positions. Therefore, even if an abnormality is found in the image of the comb plate 3 that is difficult to see due to the specific position of a specific step 7, the abnormality can be easily discovered. Furthermore, the inspection system 15 can start the inspection process, including capturing an image of the comb plate 3, simply by receiving the control signal for the brake 10. This makes it possible to apply the inspection system 15 to various types of passenger conveyors 1, including older models.

[0061] Furthermore, in the inspection process, the control unit 20 performs a preliminary process immediately after receiving a control signal, and causes the camera 29 to photograph the comb plate 3 after the preliminary process is completed.

[0062] With this configuration, an image of the comb plate 3 is captured at a timing other than immediately after the brake 10 is applied or released. This makes it less likely that the image will be blurred due to vibration of the steps 7 immediately after the brake is applied or released. This allows a clearer image of the comb plate 3 to be captured, allowing for more accurate inspection of the comb plate 3 using the image.

[0063] The control unit 20 also receives, as control signals, one or both of a signal that causes the control device 11 to release the brake 10 when the passenger conveyor 1 is started and a signal that causes the control device 11 to apply the brake 10 when the passenger conveyor 1 is stopped. The control unit 20 performs inspection processing using the control signal as a trigger.

[0064] With this configuration, images of the comb plate 3 are captured at times when no passengers are present, such as during startup and shutdown. This prevents the comb plate 3 from being obscured by passengers' shoes, etc., and allows for more reliable inspection of the comb plate 3 using automatically captured images. Furthermore, when capturing images of the comb plate 3 both during startup and shutdown, images are captured at different times corresponding to startup and shutdown, respectively. Generally, shooting conditions, such as the amount of external light, can vary depending on the time of day and other circumstances. In this case, the appearance of the comb plate 3 in the image can change. Therefore, since images of the comb plate 3 are captured under different shooting conditions, oversights due to shooting conditions can be reduced, and inspection of the comb plate 3 using images can be performed more accurately.

[0065] Furthermore, in the inspection process, the control unit 20 causes the camera 29 to capture an image of the comb plate 3 after at least a preset time has elapsed since the start of the inspection process. The preset time is, for example, the time during which the sound collection device 16 captures sound in the sound recording process. The control unit 20 may be performing information processing such as sound recording during this time. Alternatively, the control unit 20 may not be required to perform information processing other than timekeeping during this time.

[0066] With this configuration, an image of the comb plate 3 is captured at least a predetermined time after the brake 10 is applied or released. This makes it less likely that the image will be blurred due to vibration of the steps 7 immediately after braking or release. This allows for a clearer image of the comb plate 3 to be captured, enabling more accurate inspection of the comb plate 3 using the image. Furthermore, it is possible to capture an image of the comb plate 3 when the steps 7 are operating at a constant speed or at a complete stop, without requiring a sensor or the like to monitor the movement state of the steps 7.

[0067] The camera 29 also captures a still image of the comb plate 3 .

[0068] With this configuration, unnecessary information such as the movement of the steps 7 is not included, so inspection work can be performed in the same way on images taken under different conditions, such as when the passenger conveyor 1 is started and stopped. This makes inspection work of the passenger conveyor 1 using images more efficient.

[0069] The inspection system 15 also includes a memory unit 21. The memory unit 21 accumulates and stores images of the comb plate 3 captured by the camera 29. The inspection system 15 also includes a communication device 19. The communication device 19 transmits the images of the comb plate 3 stored in the memory unit 21 in response to an external request.

[0070] With this configuration, a maintenance worker for the passenger conveyor 1 can visually inspect the comb plate 3 from a remote location. Since the maintenance worker can perform the inspection work without visiting the site where the passenger conveyor 1 is installed, the efficiency of the inspection work is further improved. Furthermore, since the presence of a manager of the passenger conveyor 1 is not required when the maintenance worker visits for inspection, the burden on the manager is reduced. Furthermore, since the inspection system 15 does not require advanced information processing such as image recognition, the processing performance required for the inspection panel 18 can be reduced. This reduces the cost when applying the inspection system 15.

[0071] The photographing device 17 of the inspection system 15 according to the first embodiment photographs the comb plate 3. The comb plate 3 is disposed between a pair of comb skirts 26 in the left-right direction at the boarding / alighting entrance 2 of the passenger conveyor 1. The photographing device 17 includes a camera 29 and a fixed box 30. One of the comb skirts 26 has a photographing window 40. The camera 29 photographs the comb plate 3 through the photographing window 40 from outside the comb skirt 26 in the left-right direction and above the comb plate 3. The fixed box 30 is attached to the back side of the comb skirt 26. The fixed box 30 fixes the camera 29 inside with the camera 29 facing downward so as to face the comb plate 3. The installation method of the photographing device 17 according to the first embodiment includes removing one of the existing comb skirts 26 from the outside in the left-right direction of the position where the comb plate 3 is to be installed. The mounting method also includes mounting the fixed box 30 together with the camera 29 on the back side of the newly installed comb skirt 26 provided with the photographing window 40. The mounting method also includes mounting the newly installed comb skirt 26 with the fixed box 30 mounted on the outside in the left-right direction of the position where the comb plate 3 is provided.

[0072] With this configuration, the camera 17 is installed on the back side of the com skirt 26 under the passenger's feet, thereby minimizing the impact on the appearance of the passenger conveyor 1. Furthermore, when applying the inspection system 15, the camera window 40 on the surface of the com skirt 26 is sufficient, thereby minimizing the impact on the appearance of the passenger conveyor 1. Furthermore, the communication lines and power supply lines of the camera 17 can be routed in locations that are not visible to passengers, such as inside the truss 5. This minimizes the impact on the appearance of the passenger conveyor 1. Furthermore, because the camera 17 is installed inside the passenger conveyor 1, applying the inspection system 15 does not require the installation of additional devices in the building to which the passenger conveyor 1 is applied. Furthermore, since the camera 29 can be attached to the com skirt 26 with the wiring to the camera 29 routed inside the fixed box 30, the installation process is simplified. Furthermore, because the orientation of the camera 29 has already been adjusted inside the fixed box 30, there is no need to adjust the camera 29 after installation, which makes the installation process of the camera 17 easier. Furthermore, since the camera 29 is positioned facing downward in a position that cannot be seen by passengers, it is less likely to cause passengers anxiety or discomfort from the standpoint of privacy, for example. Furthermore, since the inspection system 15 can be applied by simply replacing the com skirt 26 when installing the imaging device 17, it becomes easy to adapt the inspection system 15 to an existing passenger conveyor 1.

[0073] The camera 29 is disposed within an imaginary vertical plane V. The vertical plane V is parallel to the left-right direction of the passenger conveyor 1 and includes the comb plate 3.

[0074] With this configuration, the camera 29 can photograph the comb plate 3 straight in the width direction, so that an image that is easier to inspect can be captured. This allows for more accurate inspection of the comb plate 3 using the image.

[0075] The fixed box 30 also includes a semi-transparent concealing plate 33. The concealing plate 33 covers the photographing window 40 from the rear side of the com skirt 26.

[0076] Normally, the inside of the fixed box 30 is darker than the outside. Therefore, the hidden plate 33 makes it difficult to see the inside of the fixed box 30 where the camera 29 is installed from the outside. This reduces the likelihood of passengers feeling uneasy or uncomfortable from the standpoint of privacy, for example.

[0077] Furthermore, a recess 35 is provided on the surface of the fixed box 30 facing the rear side of the comb skirt 26. The hiding plate 33 is attached so as to be housed in the recess 35.

[0078] With this configuration, the front surface of the fixed box 30 can be brought into close contact with the rear surface of the comb skirt 26. This makes it easier to align the fixed box 30, which makes it easier to install the imaging device 17.

[0079] The color of the concealing plate 33 is different from the color of the comb plate 3.

[0080] With this configuration, the comb plate 3 is less likely to blend into the background in the captured image, which allows for more accurate inspection of the comb plate 3 using the image.

[0081] The fixed box 30 also fixes the camera 29 so that the camera 29 includes the operation units 28 provided on the comb skirts 26 on the opposite left and right sides in its photographing range.

[0082] With this configuration, it becomes possible to perform a visual inspection of the operating unit 28 at the same time as inspecting the comb plate 3. This increases the number of items that can be inspected, and further improves the quality of inspections of the passenger conveyor 1 from a remote location.

[0083] The fixing box 30 also fixes the camera 29 above the upper end of the photographing window 40 .

[0084] With this configuration, the camera 29 is less likely to be seen through the photographing window 40. This reduces the likelihood of passengers feeling uneasy or uncomfortable from the standpoint of privacy, for example.

[0085] In addition, the fixed box 30 fixes the camera 29 so that the ratio of the height H of the camera 29 from the comb plate 3 to the distance R from the camera 29 to the comb tooth 4 located at the center of the left-right direction of the comb plate 3 is greater than the ratio of the resolution x of the camera 29 to the pitch d of the comb teeth 4 of the comb plate 3.

[0086] With this configuration, the comb plate 3 is photographed so that the comb teeth 4 in the center, which are prone to breakage when passengers pass by, can be identified, making it possible to more reliably check whether the comb teeth 4 are broken or not.

[0087] Furthermore, the fixed box 30 does not protrude from the front surface of the comb skirt 26 .

[0088] This configuration prevents the photographing device 17 from getting caught on passengers' clothing, etc.

[0089] The passenger conveyor 1 may be a horizontal or inclined moving walkway.

[0090] Next, an example of the hardware configuration of the inspection system 15 will be described with reference to Fig. 9. Fig. 9 is a hardware configuration diagram of the main part of the inspection system 15 according to the first embodiment.

[0091] Each function of the inspection system 15 may be realized by a processing circuit. The processing circuit includes at least one processor 100 a and at least one memory 100 b. The processing circuit may include at least one dedicated hardware 200 in addition to or in place of the processor 100 a and the memory 100 b.

[0092] When the processing circuit includes a processor 100a and a memory 100b, each function of the inspection system 15 is realized by software, firmware, or a combination of software and firmware. At least one of the software and firmware is written as a program. The program is stored in the memory 100b. The processor 100a realizes each function of the inspection system 15 by reading and executing the program stored in the memory 100b.

[0093] The processor 100a is also called a CPU (Central Processing Unit), processing unit, arithmetic unit, microprocessor, microcomputer, or DSP. The memory 100b is composed of non-volatile or volatile semiconductor memory such as RAM, ROM, flash memory, EPROM, or EEPROM.

[0094] Where the processing circuitry comprises dedicated hardware 200, the processing circuitry may be implemented, for example, as a single circuit, multiple circuits, a programmed processor, parallel programmed processors, an ASIC, an FPGA, or a combination thereof.

[0095] Each function of the inspection system 15 can be realized by a processing circuit. Alternatively, all functions of the inspection system 15 can be realized collectively by a processing circuit. Some of the functions of the inspection system 15 may be realized by dedicated hardware 200, and other parts may be realized by software or firmware. In this way, the processing circuit realizes each function of the inspection system 15 by dedicated hardware 200, software, firmware, or a combination thereof.

[0096] To summarize the above explanations, possible configurations of the technology disclosed herein include the configurations listed in the appendices below. (Appendix 1) An inspection system for a comb plate of a passenger conveyor, comprising: a camera permanently installed on the passenger conveyor for photographing a comb plate; and a control unit that receives a control signal from a control device of the passenger conveyor that indicates one or both of application and release of a brake of a drive device, and causes the camera to photograph the comb plate in an inspection process triggered by the control signal. (Appendix 2) An inspection system for a comb plate of a passenger conveyor as described in Appendix 1, wherein the control unit performs a pre-processing immediately after receiving the control signal in the inspection process, and causes the camera to photograph the comb plate after the pre-processing is completed. (Appendix 3) An inspection system for a comb plate of a passenger conveyor as described in Appendix 1 or Appendix 2, wherein the control unit receives a signal that causes the control device to release the brake when the passenger conveyor is started as the control signal, and performs the inspection process triggered by the control signal. (Supplementary Note 4) The inspection system for the comb plate of a passenger conveyor according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 3, wherein the control unit receives, as the control signal, a signal that causes the control device to apply the brakes when the passenger conveyor is stopped, and performs the inspection process using the control signal as a trigger. (Supplementary Note 5) The inspection system for the comb plate of a passenger conveyor according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 4, wherein the control unit, in the inspection process, causes the camera to photograph the comb plate after at least a preset time has elapsed since the start of the inspection process. (Supplementary Note 6) The inspection system for the comb plate of a passenger conveyor according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 5, wherein the camera photographs a still image of the comb plate. (Supplementary Note 7) The inspection system for the comb plate of a passenger conveyor according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 6, comprising: a memory unit that accumulates and stores images of the comb plate photographed by the camera. (Supplementary Note 8) The inspection system for a comb plate of a passenger conveyor according to Supplementary Note 7, further comprising: a communication unit that transmits an image of the comb plate stored in the memory unit in response to an external request.(Supplementary Note 9) The inspection system for a comb plate of a passenger conveyor according to any one of Supplementary Note 1 to Supplementary Note 8, wherein the camera is arranged on the back side of a comb skirt which is arranged on the left-right outer side of the comb plate and has a photographing window, and photographs the comb plate through the photographing window from outside the comb skirt in the left-right direction and above the comb plate.

[0097] The inspection system according to the present disclosure can be applied to inspecting comb plates of passenger conveyors.

[0098] 1 passenger conveyor, 2 boarding / alighting door, 3 comb plate, 4 comb teeth, 5 truss, 6 drive device, 7 step, 8 balustrade, 9 moving handrail, 10 brake, 11 control device, 12a upper machine room, 12b lower machine room, 13 sprocket, 14 drive chain, 15 inspection system, 16 sound pickup device, 17 photographing device, 18 inspection panel, 19 communication device, 20 control unit, 21 memory unit, 22 handrail guide, 23 inner plate, 24 skirt guard, 25 inner deck, 26 com skirt, 27 com light, 28 operation unit, 29 camera, 30 fixing box, 31 outer box, 32 internal support, 33 concealing plate, 34 tab, 35 recess, 36: Wire inlet, 37: Base, 38: Support, 39: Photography port, 40: Photography window, 100a: Processor, 100b: Memory, 200: Dedicated hardware

Claims

1. A passenger conveyor comb plate inspection system comprising: a camera permanently installed on the passenger conveyor for photographing the comb plate; and a control unit that receives a control signal from the passenger conveyor control device that indicates either or both of the application and release of the brake of the drive device, and causes the camera to photograph the comb plate in an inspection process triggered by the control signal.

2. The inspection system for a comb plate of a passenger conveyor as described in claim 1, wherein the control unit performs a preliminary process immediately after receiving the control signal during the inspection process, and causes the camera to photograph the comb plate after the preliminary process is completed.

3. A passenger conveyor comb plate inspection system as described in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the control unit receives a signal that causes the control device to release the brake when the passenger conveyor is started as the control signal, and performs the inspection process using the control signal as a trigger.

4. A passenger conveyor comb plate inspection system as described in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the control unit receives a signal that causes the control device to apply the brakes when the passenger conveyor is stopped as the control signal, and performs the inspection process using the control signal as a trigger.

5. An inspection system for a comb plate of a passenger conveyor as described in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the control unit causes the camera to photograph the comb plate during the inspection process after at least a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the inspection process.

6. The inspection system for a comb plate of a passenger conveyor according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the camera takes a still image of the comb plate.

7. An inspection system for a comb plate of a passenger conveyor according to claim 1 or claim 2, comprising a memory unit that accumulates and stores images of the comb plate taken by the camera.

8. A passenger conveyor comb plate inspection system as described in claim 7, further comprising a communication unit that transmits an image of the comb plate stored in the memory unit in response to an external request.

9. An inspection system for a comb plate of a passenger conveyor as described in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the camera is positioned on the back of a comb skirt which is arranged on the left and right outer side of the comb plate and has a photographing window, and photographs the comb plate through the photographing window from outside the comb skirt in the left and right direction and above the comb plate.

Images