EP1533766B1 - Signalling device - Google Patents

Signalling device Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1533766B1
EP1533766B1 EP20040026044 EP04026044A EP1533766B1 EP 1533766 B1 EP1533766 B1 EP 1533766B1 EP 20040026044 EP20040026044 EP 20040026044 EP 04026044 A EP04026044 A EP 04026044A EP 1533766 B1 EP1533766 B1 EP 1533766B1
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European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
signal
signalling device
sensor
signal generator
detecting
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EP20040026044
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP1533766A1 (en
Inventor
Gerhard Kühnemundt
Heinz Elsässer
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WERMA Signaltechnik GmbH and Co
WERMA Signaltechnik GmbH and Co KG
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WERMA Signaltechnik GmbH and Co
WERMA Signaltechnik GmbH and Co KG
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Priority claimed from DE10361758A external-priority patent/DE10361758B4/en
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    • GPHYSICS
    • G08SIGNALLING
    • G08BSIGNALLING OR CALLING SYSTEMS; ORDER TELEGRAPHS; ALARM SYSTEMS
    • G08B7/00Signalling systems according to more than one of groups G08B3/00 - G08B6/00; Personal calling systems according to more than one of groups G08B3/00 - G08B6/00
    • G08B7/06Signalling systems according to more than one of groups G08B3/00 - G08B6/00; Personal calling systems according to more than one of groups G08B3/00 - G08B6/00 using electric transmission, e.g. involving audible and visible signalling through the use of sound and light sources
    • GPHYSICS
    • G07CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07CTIME OR ATTENDANCE REGISTERS; REGISTERING OR INDICATING THE WORKING OF MACHINES; GENERATING RANDOM NUMBERS; VOTING OR LOTTERY APPARATUS; ARRANGEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS FOR CHECKING NOT PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE
    • G07C3/00Registering or indicating the condition or the working of machines or other apparatus, other than vehicles

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a signaling device according to the preamble of claim 1.
  • Signal devices in particular for displaying operating states in machines and systems having at least two different signal generators for at least two different signals, are already commercially available.
  • a so-called signal tower has become known for modular construction with the document EP 0 755 494 B1, in which various segments can be combined to form a signal light with base and cover.
  • acoustic signal generators such as piezo buzzer or the like, can be found.
  • Such signaling devices are u.a. used to indicate the operating conditions or defects of certain operators in machinery and equipment and possibly to generate warning signals.
  • the object of the invention is therefore a signal device to propose, in which the signal function is improved in the case of disturbing environmental factors, such as ambient light or environmental noise.
  • a signal device is characterized in that the environmental sensor is frequency-dependent and / or direction-dependent.
  • the invention thus provides a sensor which is sensitive to a property of the disturbance variable, for example the frequency or the direction. This makes it possible, for example, to increase the frequency of the signal, i. For example, the color of a light source or the sound or the pitch of a sound generator to adapt to the corresponding disturbance of the environment.
  • control unit is designed such that the signaling and the sensor interrogation take place intermittently.
  • Such an intermittent sequence ensures that the environmental sensor detects the corresponding disturbance from the environment independently of the functional signal of the signaling device.
  • Conceivable would be the simultaneous Störsterner charged on the sensor and signal generation via the signal device or a signal generator of the signaling device, with appropriate measures for detecting or separating the disturbance are provided by the signal generated by the signal generator.
  • measures may include, for example, a filter or the like.
  • the sensor function and the function of the signal generator is perceived by the same unit. It is possible, for example, with a so-called bidirectional transducer on the one hand to generate a signal from an electrical signal signal and on the other from sound waves that hit the transducer to form electrical signals that are electronically evaluated. A corresponding design is also conceivable with optical components. Thus, for example, with one or more LEDs on the one hand produces a signal light and on the other hand from incident light, a voltage or current signal can be obtained, through which an LED and sensor element can be used.
  • a visual signal generator e.g. one or more LEDs and a corresponding photo sensor for detecting ambient light provided.
  • the signal device according to the invention forms a luminous signal, as is known for example from the light columns described above.
  • a signal device can be realized in the same way in the form of an acoustic signal generator with a sound generator and a sound sensor as an environmental sensor. Also sound signals can be adapted according to the invention to the corresponding disturbance of the ambient sound.
  • an intensity-sensitive environmental sensor senses the brightness in the corresponding environment and is capable of controlling the intensity of the corresponding signal, i. adjust the volume or brightness to the environment so that the signal is sufficiently perceptible.
  • two or more controllable signal generators are provided. This can be, for example, two differently colored bulbs or even two sound sources of different pitch. The combination of a sound source with a light source comes into question for this embodiment.
  • two or more sensors are provided to detect the interference of the environments, adapted to the respective signal generator.
  • a sensor is also provided which is sensitive at least in this frequency range.
  • the combination with a corresponding sensor makes sense.
  • At least one signal sensor is furthermore provided for detecting a signal generated by the signal generator (s).
  • a signal generated by the signal generator (s) is furthermore provided for detecting a signal generated by the signal generator (s).
  • a control of the signal for example, in terms of intensity or frequency, is possible, which ensures a sufficient contrast to disturbances of the environment. For example, a certain intensity difference between the disturbance variable and the signal can be regulated.
  • the control unit required for this purpose is carried out separately or as a unit with the control unit.
  • the signal device 1 comprises a power supply 2 for providing the power supply, a control unit 3 and a pulse generator 4.
  • Light-emitting diodes 5 are connected to the pulse generator 4. In the present example, four light emitting diodes are present.
  • the pulse generator 4 is connected both to the power supply unit 2 and to the control unit 3. He receives his power supply via the power supply 2 and is controlled by the control unit 3.
  • a photosensor 6 is connected to a switching stage 7, which comprises a switch, in the present case in the form of the transistor 8.
  • the transistor 8 via the line. 9 connected by means of the pulse generator 4, which in turn is controlled by the control unit 3.
  • the transistor 8 could easily be switched directly from the control unit 3.
  • a capacitance 10 is also located in the circuit of the photosensor 6.
  • the capacitance smoothes the sensor signal of the photosensor 6 and prevents u.a. an undesirable DC component in this circuit.
  • An amplification unit 11 amplifies the sensor signal of the photosensor 6 with the aid of an amplifier 12.
  • the output 13 of the amplifier 12 is switched to the negative input of a first comparator 14 and to the positive input of a second comparator 15.
  • a reference voltage 16 defines by means of a series circuit of three resistors 17, 18, 19, two different potentials 20, 21, which are placed on the not yet occupied by the sensor input of the comparators 14, 15.
  • the two comparators 14, 15 deliver a signal via the signal lines 22, 23 to the control unit 3 in each case when a threshold value defined above the potentials 20, 21 is exceeded.
  • a device with a circuit according to Figure 1 is able to perform a power control of the LED 5, which is dependent on the brightness or intensity of the ambient light.
  • the ambient light is detected via the photosensor 6 and evaluated via the amplifier unit and the comparators 14, 15.
  • the power control can be done in three stages.
  • the LED 5 Without sensor signal from the comparators 14, 15, the LED 5 is operated at normal standard power. When a threshold value is exceeded, the comparator 15 delivers a signal whereby the power is increased via the control unit 3 and the pulse generator 4 in a first stage. After exceeding a second threshold with a corresponding signal via the comparator 14, the control unit 3 by means of the pulse generator 4, the LED 5 operate in a further higher power level.
  • the switching stage 7 downstream electronic components can be switched off by switching over the transistor 8 of the environmental sensor 6.
  • This is particularly advantageous in a design in which the environmental sensor 6 is within the range of influence of the signal generators, i. in the present case, the LEDs 5, is located.
  • intermittent operation may take place, i. the amplifier unit 11 and the following electronics is turned on only by the transistor 8 when the LED 5 is turned off. In this way, regardless of the emission of the LEDs 5, the ambient light is detected and evaluated.
  • the amplifier unit 11 is protected from an excessively strong input signal by switching off by means of the transistor 8, when the environmental sensor 6 is illuminated by the LED 5.
  • the device according to FIG. 1 represents a particularly simple variant, in which the intensity of the ambient light is detected independently of frequency and, depending on threshold values, the luminous intensity of the LED is controlled in three power levels.
  • continuous control is possible with correspondingly complex electronics.
  • Such a control may also take into account other parameters, such as the frequency of the ambient light, the time of day, etc.
  • the device according to FIG. 2 essentially corresponds to the aforementioned exemplary embodiment, wherein now instead of the LED 5 and the photosensor 6, a bidirectional, electroacoustic sound transducer 24 is provided.
  • This sound transducer 24 serves on the one hand as a signal or sound generator to generate the desired signal with appropriate control via the control unit 3 and the pulse generator 4.
  • the sound transducer 24 is connected via the lines 25, 26 to the pulse generator 4 for this purpose.
  • the sound transducer 24 operates bidirectionally, i. upon impact of sound waves, the sound transducer 24 is capable of generating an output signal on the lines 25, 26 which is tapped via the sensor lines 27, 28 and evaluated as in the above-described embodiment.
  • the sound transducer 24 also serves as a sound generator and sound sensor. This is possible in intermittent operation, since on the one hand the sensor electronics are switched off via the transistor 8 when sound is generated and, on the other hand, the sound transducer 24 is available as a sensor without activation via the pulse generator 4.
  • the lines 25, 26 are preferably terminated with high resistance in the phase without sound generation.
  • the embodiment according to FIG. 2 can also be designed as an optical signal device.
  • the bidirectional transducer 24 in this case one or more bidirectional optical elements, for example one or more LEDs are used.
  • LEDs are not only able to emit light with appropriate current, but it can also be obtained by means of LED incident light with a current or voltage signal. An LED is therefore at the same time as a signal generator and usable as a sensor.
  • the illustrated embodiments describe, by way of example only, comparatively simple implementations of the invention.
  • the use of several sound generators and several sensors is possible, as is the evaluation of different properties or parameters of the ambient sound, for example, in addition to the intensity, also the frequency or the direction from which the ambient noise comes.
  • a direction-dependent evaluation for example, controlled by different sound transducers and a correspondingly different sound can be radiated in different directions.
  • Essential in the invention is a consideration of disturbances from the environment in the generation of the corresponding signal. Combinations of acoustic and visual signal generators with appropriate control are conceivable within the scope of the invention.

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  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Circuit Arrangement For Electric Light Sources In General (AREA)

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft ein Signalgerät nach dem Oberbegriff des Anspruchs 1.The invention relates to a signaling device according to the preamble of claim 1.

Signalgeräte, insbesondere zur Anzeige von Betriebszuständen in Maschinen und Anlagen mit wenigstens zwei verschiedenen Signalgeneratoren für wenigstens zwei unterschiedliche Signale, sind bereits handelsüblich. So ist beispielsweise eine sogenannte Signalsäule zum modularen Aufbau mit der Druckschrift EP 0 755 494 B1 bekannt geworden, bei der verschiedenartige Segmente zu einer Signalleuchte mit Sockel und Deckel kombinierbar sind. Weiterhin sind in derartigen Signalgeräten auch akustische Signalgeneratoren, wie beispielsweise Piezo-Summer oder dergleichen, zu finden.Signal devices, in particular for displaying operating states in machines and systems having at least two different signal generators for at least two different signals, are already commercially available. Thus, for example, a so-called signal tower has become known for modular construction with the document EP 0 755 494 B1, in which various segments can be combined to form a signal light with base and cover. Furthermore, in such signal devices and acoustic signal generators, such as piezo buzzer or the like, can be found.

Derartige Signalgeräte werden u.a. dazu verwendet, um bei Maschinen und Anlagen die Betriebszustände oder Defekte bestimmten Bedienpersonen anzuzeigen und gegebenenfalls Warnsignale zu erzeugen.Such signaling devices are u.a. used to indicate the operating conditions or defects of certain operators in machinery and equipment and possibly to generate warning signals.

Insbesondere bei einem Einsatz an Maschinen und Anlagen besteht hierbei häufig die Gefahr, dass die Signalfunktion durch Umgebungsgeräusche oder Umgebungslicht beeinträchtigt wird.In particular, when used on machines and systems there is often the risk that the signal function is affected by ambient noise or ambient light.

Aus der EP 51B 267 A2 ist ein Signalgerät eines Aufzugs bereits bekannt, das einen Umgebungssensor zur Erfassung einer Störgröße aus der Umgebung aufweist und eine störgrößenabhängige-Signalsteuerung besitzt.From EP 51B 267 A2 a signal device of an elevator is already known, which has an environmental sensor for detecting a disturbance from the environment and has a noise-dependent signal control.

Aufgabe der Erfindung ist es daher, ein Signalgerät vorzuschlagen, bei der die Signalfunktion bei Störfaktoren aus der Umgebung, wie Umgebungslicht oder Umgebungslärm verbessert wird.The object of the invention is therefore a signal device to propose, in which the signal function is improved in the case of disturbing environmental factors, such as ambient light or environmental noise.

Diese Aufgabe wird, ausgehend von einem Signalgerät der einleitend genannten Art durch die kennzeichnenden Merkmale des Anspruchs 1 gelöst.This object is achieved on the basis of a signaling device of the aforementioned type by the characterizing features of claim 1.

Dementsprechend zeichnet sich ein erfindungsgemäßes Signalgerät dadurch aus, dass der Umgebungssensor frequenzabhängig und/oder richtungsabhängig ist.Accordingly, a signal device according to the invention is characterized in that the environmental sensor is frequency-dependent and / or direction-dependent.

Die Erfindung sieht somit einen Sensor vor, der auf eine Eigenschaft der Störgröße, beispielsweise die Frequenz oder die Richtung, empfindlich ist. Hierdurch ist es zum Beispiel möglich, die Frequenz des signals, d.h. beispielsweise die Farbe eines Leuchtmittels oder den Klang bzw. die Tonhöhe eines Schallgenerators, an die entsprechende Störgröße der Umgebung anzupassen.The invention thus provides a sensor which is sensitive to a property of the disturbance variable, for example the frequency or the direction. This makes it possible, for example, to increase the frequency of the signal, i. For example, the color of a light source or the sound or the pitch of a sound generator to adapt to the corresponding disturbance of the environment.

Auch die Kombination der vorgenannten Ausführungsbeispiele, d.h. die Erfassung und Steuerung bzw. Regelung verschiedener Parameter der Störungen aus der Umgebung, beispielsweise Intensität, Frequenz und/oder Richtung, ist im Rahmen der Erfindung in einem Signalgerat denkbar.Also, the combination of the aforementioned embodiments, i. the detection and control or regulation of various parameters of the disturbances from the environment, for example intensity, frequency and / or direction, is conceivable within the scope of the invention in a signaling device.

Auf diese Weise ist es möglich, das Signal selbsttätig an die entsprechenden Störgrößen aus der Umgebung so anzupassen, dass es stets deutlich wahrnehmbar ist.In this way, it is possible to adapt the signal automatically to the corresponding disturbances from the environment so that it is always clearly perceptible.

In einer besonderen Ausführungsform der Erfindung wird hierbei die Steuereinheit so ausgebildet, dass die Signalgebung und die Sensorabfrage intermittierend stattfinden. Durch eine solche intermittierende Abfolge wird sichergestellt, dass der Umgebungssensor die entsprechende Störgröße aus der Umgebung unabhängig von dem funktionsgemäßen Signal des Signalgeräts erfasst.In a particular embodiment of the invention, in this case the control unit is designed such that the signaling and the sensor interrogation take place intermittently. Such an intermittent sequence ensures that the environmental sensor detects the corresponding disturbance from the environment independently of the functional signal of the signaling device.

Denkbar wäre jedoch auch die gleichzeitige Störgrößenerfassung über den Sensor und Signalerzeugung über das Signalgerät bzw. einen Signalgenerator des Signalgeräts, wobei entsprechende Maßnahmen zur Erkennung bzw. Trennung der Störgröße von dem über den Signalgenerator erzeugten Signal vorzusehen sind. Derartige Maßnahmen können beispielsweise einen Filter oder dergleichen beinhalten.Conceivable, however, would be the simultaneous Störgrößenerfassung on the sensor and signal generation via the signal device or a signal generator of the signaling device, with appropriate measures for detecting or separating the disturbance are provided by the signal generated by the signal generator. Such measures may include, for example, a filter or the like.

Die o.a. intermittierende Vorgehensweise stellt jedoch eine besonders leicht.realisierbare und daher bevorzugte Ausführungsform für eine umgebungsabhängige Signalerzeugung dar.The o.a. However, intermittent approach is a particularly leicht.realizable and therefore preferred embodiment for an environment-dependent signal generation.

In einer besonderen Ausführungsform der Erfindung wird die Sensorfunktion sowie die Funktion des Signalgenerators von der gleichen Baueinheit wahrgenommen. Es ist beispielsweise möglich, mit einem sogenannten bidirektionalen Schallwandler einerseits aus einem elektrischen Signal ein Signalgeräusch zu erzeugen und zum anderen aus Schallwellen, die auf den Schallwandler treffen, elektrische Signale zu bilden, die elektronisch auswertbar sind. Eine entsprechende Bauart ist auch mit optischen Bauelementen denkbar. So kann beispielsweise mit einer oder mehreren LED einerseits ein Signallicht erzeugt und andererseits aus eintreffendem Licht ein Spannungs- bzw. Stromsignal gewonnen werden, durch das eine LED als auch Sensorelement verwendbar ist.In a particular embodiment of the invention, the sensor function and the function of the signal generator is perceived by the same unit. It is possible, for example, with a so-called bidirectional transducer on the one hand to generate a signal from an electrical signal signal and on the other from sound waves that hit the transducer to form electrical signals that are electronically evaluated. A corresponding design is also conceivable with optical components. Thus, for example, with one or more LEDs on the one hand produces a signal light and on the other hand from incident light, a voltage or current signal can be obtained, through which an LED and sensor element can be used.

In einer besonderen Ausführungsform der Erfindung wird ein visueller Signalgenerator z.B. eine oder mehrere LED sowie ein entsprechender Fotosensor zur Erfassung von Umgebungslicht vorgesehen. In diesem Fall bildet das erfindungsgemäße Signalgerät ein Leuchtsignal, wie es beispielsweise anhand der eingangs beschriebenen Leuchtsäulen bekannt ist.In a particular embodiment of the invention, a visual signal generator, e.g. one or more LEDs and a corresponding photo sensor for detecting ambient light provided. In this case, the signal device according to the invention forms a luminous signal, as is known for example from the light columns described above.

Ein erfindungsgemäßes Signalgerät lässt sich jedoch in gleicher Weise auch in Form eines akustischen Signalgebers mit einem Schallgenerator sowie einem Schallsensor als Umgebungssensor realisieren. Auch Schallsignale können erfindungsgemäß an die entsprechende Störgröße des Umgebungsschalls angepasst werden.However, a signal device according to the invention can be realized in the same way in the form of an acoustic signal generator with a sound generator and a sound sensor as an environmental sensor. Also sound signals can be adapted according to the invention to the corresponding disturbance of the ambient sound.

In einer ersten Ausführungsform der Erfindung wird ein intensitätsempfindlicher Umgebungssensor vorgesehen. Ein solcher Sensor erfasst die Helligkeit bzw. die Lautstärke in der entsprechenden Umgebung und ist dafür geeignet, die Intensität des entsprechenden Signals, d.h. die Lautstärke oder die Helligkeit so an die Umgebung anzupassen, dass das Signal ausreichend wahrnehmbar ist.In a first embodiment of the invention, an intensity-sensitive environmental sensor is provided. Such a sensor senses the brightness in the corresponding environment and is capable of controlling the intensity of the corresponding signal, i. adjust the volume or brightness to the environment so that the signal is sufficiently perceptible.

In einer Weiterbildung der Erfindung werden zwei oder mehrere steuerbare Signalgeneratoren vorgesehen. Dies können beispielsweise zwei verschiedenfarbige Leuchtmittel oder aber auch zwei Schallquellen unterschiedlicher Tonhöhe sein. Auch die Kombination einer Schallquelle mit einem Leuchtmittel kommt für diese Ausführungsform in Frage.In one embodiment of the invention, two or more controllable signal generators are provided. This can be, for example, two differently colored bulbs or even two sound sources of different pitch. The combination of a sound source with a light source comes into question for this embodiment.

Bevorzugt werden in diesem Fall auch zwei oder mehrere Sensoren vorgesehen, um die Störungen der Umgebungen, angepasst den jeweiligen Signalgenerator zu erfassen. So ist es beispielsweise von Vorteil, wenn für ein rotes Leuchtmittel auch ein Sensor vorgesehen wird, der zumindest in diesem Frequenzbereich empfindlich ist. Ebenso ist beispielsweise bei einem Schallgenerator in einem bestimmten Frequenzbereich die Kombination mit einem entsprechenden Sensor sinnvoll.Preferably, in this case, two or more sensors are provided to detect the interference of the environments, adapted to the respective signal generator. For example, it is advantageous if, for a red light source, a sensor is also provided which is sensitive at least in this frequency range. Likewise, for example, in a sound generator in a certain frequency range, the combination with a corresponding sensor makes sense.

In einer Weiterbildung der Erfindung wird weiterhin wenigstens ein Signalsensor zur Erfassung eines von dem bzw. den Signalgeneratoren erzeugten Signals vorgesehen. Auf diese Weise ist eine Rückkopplung in die Steuereinheit möglich, so dass letztlich eine Regelung des Signals, beispielsweise im Hinblick auf Intensität oder Frequenz, möglich ist, die einen ausreichenden Kontrast zu Störgrößen der Umgebung sicherstellt. So kann beispielsweise ein bestimmter Intensitätsunterschied zwischen Störgröße und Signal geregelt eingestellt werden. Die hierzu erforderliche Regeleinheit wird separat oder als Baueinheit mit der Steuereinheit ausgeführt.In a development of the invention, at least one signal sensor is furthermore provided for detecting a signal generated by the signal generator (s). To this Way is a feedback in the control unit possible, so that ultimately a control of the signal, for example, in terms of intensity or frequency, is possible, which ensures a sufficient contrast to disturbances of the environment. For example, a certain intensity difference between the disturbance variable and the signal can be regulated. The control unit required for this purpose is carried out separately or as a unit with the control unit.

Ein Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung ist in der Zeichnung dargestellt und wird anhand der Figuren nachfolgend näher erläutert.An embodiment of the invention is illustrated in the drawing and will be explained in more detail with reference to FIGS.

Im Einzelnen zeigen

Figur 1
ein Blockdiagramm eines erfindungsgemäßen Signalgeräts mit Leuchtmitteln und
Figur 2
ein Blockdiagramm eines erfindungsgemäßen Signalgeräts mit Schallquelle.
Show in detail
FIG. 1
a block diagram of a signaling device according to the invention with lighting means and
FIG. 2
a block diagram of a signal device according to the invention with sound source.

Das Signalgerät 1 gemäß Figur 1 umfasst ein Netzteil 2 zur Bereitstellung der Stromversorgung, eine Steuereinheit 3 sowie einen Impulsgenerator 4. An dem Impulsgenerator 4 sind Leuchtdioden 5 angeschlossen. Vorliegend sind beispielsweise vier Leuchtdioden vorhanden.The signal device 1 according to FIG. 1 comprises a power supply 2 for providing the power supply, a control unit 3 and a pulse generator 4. Light-emitting diodes 5 are connected to the pulse generator 4. In the present example, four light emitting diodes are present.

Der Impulsgenerator 4 ist sowohl mit dem Netzteil 2 als auch mit der Steuereinheit 3 verbunden. Er erhält über das Netzteil 2 seine Versorgungsspannung und wird über die Steuereinheit 3 gesteuert.The pulse generator 4 is connected both to the power supply unit 2 and to the control unit 3. He receives his power supply via the power supply 2 and is controlled by the control unit 3.

Ein Fotosensor 6 ist mit einer Schaltstufe 7 verbunden, die einen Schalter, vorliegend in Form des Transistors 8, umfasst. Vorliegend wird der Transistor 8 über die Leitung 9 mittels dem Impulsgenerator 4 geschaltet, der wiederum über die Steuereinheit 3 gesteuert wird. Der Transistor 8 könnte jedoch ohne weiteres auch unmittelbar von der Steuereinheit 3 geschaltet werden.A photosensor 6 is connected to a switching stage 7, which comprises a switch, in the present case in the form of the transistor 8. In the present case, the transistor 8 via the line. 9 connected by means of the pulse generator 4, which in turn is controlled by the control unit 3. However, the transistor 8 could easily be switched directly from the control unit 3.

Eine Kapazität 10 befindet sich ebenfalls im Stromkreis des Fotosensors 6. Die Kapazität glättet das Sensorsignal des Fotosensors 6 und verhindert u.a. einen unerwünschten Gleichstromanteil in diesem Stromkreis.A capacitance 10 is also located in the circuit of the photosensor 6. The capacitance smoothes the sensor signal of the photosensor 6 and prevents u.a. an undesirable DC component in this circuit.

Eine Verstärkungseinheit 11 verstärkt mit Hilfe eines Verstärkers 12 das Sensorsignal des Fotosensors 6. Der Ausgang 13 des Verstärkers 12 wird auf den negativen Eingang eines ersten Komparators 14 sowie auf den positiven Eingang eines zweiten Komparators 15 geschaltet. Eine Referenzspannung 16 definiert mit Hilfe einer Serienschaltung von drei Widerständen 17, 18, 19 zwei unterschiedliche Potentiale 20, 21, die auf den jeweils noch nicht durch den Sensor belegten Eingang der Komparatoren 14, 15 gelegt sind.An amplification unit 11 amplifies the sensor signal of the photosensor 6 with the aid of an amplifier 12. The output 13 of the amplifier 12 is switched to the negative input of a first comparator 14 and to the positive input of a second comparator 15. A reference voltage 16 defines by means of a series circuit of three resistors 17, 18, 19, two different potentials 20, 21, which are placed on the not yet occupied by the sensor input of the comparators 14, 15.

Die beiden Komparatoren 14, 15 liefern auf diese Weise jeweils bei Überschreiten eines über die Potentiale 20, 21 definierten Schwellwert ein Signal über die Signalleitungen 22, 23 an die Steuereinheit 3.In this way, the two comparators 14, 15 deliver a signal via the signal lines 22, 23 to the control unit 3 in each case when a threshold value defined above the potentials 20, 21 is exceeded.

Ein Gerät mit einer Schaltung gemäß Figur 1 ist in der Lage, eine Leistungssteuerung der LED 5 vorzunehmen, die abhängig ist von der Helligkeit bzw. Intensität des Umgebungslichtes. Das Umgebungslicht wird über den Fotosensor 6 erfasst sowie über die Verstärkereinheit und die Komparatoren 14, 15 ausgewertet. In diesem Fall kann die Leistungsregelung in drei Stufen erfolgen.A device with a circuit according to Figure 1 is able to perform a power control of the LED 5, which is dependent on the brightness or intensity of the ambient light. The ambient light is detected via the photosensor 6 and evaluated via the amplifier unit and the comparators 14, 15. In this case, the power control can be done in three stages.

Ohne Sensorsignal von den Komparatoren 14, 15 wird die LED 5 mit normaler Standardleistung betrieben. Bei Überschreiten eines Schwellwertes liefert der Komparator 15 ein Signal, wodurch in einer ersten Stufe die Leistung über die Steuereinheit 3 und den Impulsgenerator 4 erhöht wird. Nach Überschreiten eines zweiten Schwellwertes mit entsprechendem Signal über den Komparator 14 kann die Steuereinheit 3 mittels des Impulsgenerators 4 die LED 5 in einer weiteren höheren Leistungsstufe betreiben.Without sensor signal from the comparators 14, 15, the LED 5 is operated at normal standard power. When a threshold value is exceeded, the comparator 15 delivers a signal whereby the power is increased via the control unit 3 and the pulse generator 4 in a first stage. After exceeding a second threshold with a corresponding signal via the comparator 14, the control unit 3 by means of the pulse generator 4, the LED 5 operate in a further higher power level.

Die der Schaltstufe 7 nachgeordneten elektronischen Bauelemente können durch Schalten über den Transistor 8 von dem Umgebungssensor 6 abgeschaltet werden. Dies ist insbesondere bei einer Ausführung von Vorteil, bei der der Umgebungssensor 6 im Einflussbereich der Signalgeneratoren, d.h. vorliegend der Leuchtdioden 5, liegt. In diesem Fall kann ein intermittierender Betrieb stattfinden, d.h. die Verstärkereinheit 11 sowie die Nachfolgeelektronik wird nur bei ausgeschalteter LED 5 mittels dem Transistor 8 eingeschaltet. Auf diese Weise wird unabhängig von der Emission der Leuchtdioden 5 das Umgebungslicht erfasst und ausgewertet.The switching stage 7 downstream electronic components can be switched off by switching over the transistor 8 of the environmental sensor 6. This is particularly advantageous in a design in which the environmental sensor 6 is within the range of influence of the signal generators, i. in the present case, the LEDs 5, is located. In this case, intermittent operation may take place, i. the amplifier unit 11 and the following electronics is turned on only by the transistor 8 when the LED 5 is turned off. In this way, regardless of the emission of the LEDs 5, the ambient light is detected and evaluated.

Weiterhin wird über das Ausschalten mittels des Transistors 8 die Verstärkereinheit 11 vor einem zu starken Eingangssignal geschützt, wenn der Umgebungssensor 6 von der LED 5 beleuchtet wird.Furthermore, the amplifier unit 11 is protected from an excessively strong input signal by switching off by means of the transistor 8, when the environmental sensor 6 is illuminated by the LED 5.

Das Gerät gemäß Figur 1 stellt eine besonders einfache Variante dar, in der frequenzunabhängig die Intensität des Umgebungslichtes erfasst und abhängig von Schwellwerten die Leuchtintensität der LED in drei Leistungsstufen angesteuert wird. Grundsätzlich ist mit entsprechend aufwändiger Elektronik auch eine kontinuierliche Steuerung möglich. Eine solche Steuerung kann auch andere Parameter berücksichtigen, wie beispielsweise die Frequenz des Umgebungslichtes, die Tageszeit, usw.. Weiterhin sind auch mehrere Umgebungssensoren 6 zur Erfassung und Auswertung verschiedener Störgrößen oder verschiedener Eigenschaften von Störgrößen denkbar.The device according to FIG. 1 represents a particularly simple variant, in which the intensity of the ambient light is detected independently of frequency and, depending on threshold values, the luminous intensity of the LED is controlled in three power levels. In principle, continuous control is possible with correspondingly complex electronics. Such a control may also take into account other parameters, such as the frequency of the ambient light, the time of day, etc. Furthermore, there are also a plurality of environmental sensors 6 for detecting and evaluating various disturbances or different characteristics of Disturbances conceivable.

Das Gerät gemäß Figur 2 entspricht im Wesentlichen dem vorgenannten Ausführungsbeispiel, wobei nunmehr anstelle der LED 5 und des Fotosensors 6 ein bidirektionaler, elektroakustischer Schallwandler 24 vorgesehen ist. Dieser Schallwandler 24 dient einerseits als Signal- bzw. Schallgenerator, um das gewünschte Signal bei entsprechender Ansteuerung über die Steuereinheit 3 und den Impulsgenerator 4 zu erzeugen. Der Schallwandler 24 ist hierzu über die Leitungen 25, 26 an den Impulsgenerator 4 angeschlossen.The device according to FIG. 2 essentially corresponds to the aforementioned exemplary embodiment, wherein now instead of the LED 5 and the photosensor 6, a bidirectional, electroacoustic sound transducer 24 is provided. This sound transducer 24 serves on the one hand as a signal or sound generator to generate the desired signal with appropriate control via the control unit 3 and the pulse generator 4. The sound transducer 24 is connected via the lines 25, 26 to the pulse generator 4 for this purpose.

Vorliegend wird andererseits auch der Umstand genutzt, dass der Schallwandler 24 bidirektional arbeitet, d.h. beim Auftreffen von Schallwellen ist der Schallwandler 24 in der Lage, ein Ausgangssignal auf den Leitungen 25, 26 zu erzeugen, das über die Sensorleitungen 27, 28 abgegriffen und wie im vorbeschriebenen Ausführungsbeispiel ausgewertet wird. Somit dient der Schallwandler 24 zugleich als Schallgenerator und Schallsensor. Dies ist im intermittierenden Betrieb möglich, da einerseits bei Schallerzeugung die Sensorelektronik über den Transistor 8 abgeschaltet ist und andererseits der Schallwandler 24 ohne Ansteuerung über den Impulsgenerator 4 als Sensor zur Verfügung steht. Die Leitungen 25, 26 werden hierzu vorzugsweise in der Phase ohne Schallerzeugung hochohmig abgeschlossen.In the present case, on the other hand, the circumstance is also used that the sound transducer 24 operates bidirectionally, i. upon impact of sound waves, the sound transducer 24 is capable of generating an output signal on the lines 25, 26 which is tapped via the sensor lines 27, 28 and evaluated as in the above-described embodiment. Thus, the sound transducer 24 also serves as a sound generator and sound sensor. This is possible in intermittent operation, since on the one hand the sensor electronics are switched off via the transistor 8 when sound is generated and, on the other hand, the sound transducer 24 is available as a sensor without activation via the pulse generator 4. For this purpose, the lines 25, 26 are preferably terminated with high resistance in the phase without sound generation.

Die Ausführungsform gemäß Figur 2 kann auch als optisches Signalgerät ausgestaltet werden. Anstelle des bidirektionalen Schallwandlers 24 werden hierbei ein oder mehrere bidirektionale optische Elemente, beispielsweise eine oder mehrere LED eingesetzt. Wie bereits eingangs angegeben, sind LED nicht nur in der Lage, bei entsprechender Bestromung Licht abzustrahlen, sondern es kann bei einfallendem Licht mittels LED auch ein Strom- bzw. Spannungssignal gewonnen werden. Eine LED ist demnach zugleich als Signalgenerator und als Sensor verwendbar.The embodiment according to FIG. 2 can also be designed as an optical signal device. Instead of the bidirectional transducer 24 in this case one or more bidirectional optical elements, for example one or more LEDs are used. As already stated above, LEDs are not only able to emit light with appropriate current, but it can also be obtained by means of LED incident light with a current or voltage signal. An LED is therefore at the same time as a signal generator and usable as a sensor.

Die dargestellten Ausführungsformen beschreiben nur beispielhaft vergleichsweise einfache Verwirklichungen der Erfindung. Auch bei einem akustischen Signalgerät gemäß Figur 2 ist die Verwendung mehrerer Schallerzeuger und mehrerer Sensoren ebenso möglich, wie die Auswertung unterschiedlicher Eigenschaften bzw. Parameter des Umgebungsschalls, beispielsweise neben der Intensität auch die Frequenz oder die Richtung, aus der die Umgebungsgeräusche kommen.The illustrated embodiments describe, by way of example only, comparatively simple implementations of the invention. In the case of an acoustic signal device according to FIG. 2 as well, the use of several sound generators and several sensors is possible, as is the evaluation of different properties or parameters of the ambient sound, for example, in addition to the intensity, also the frequency or the direction from which the ambient noise comes.

Bei einer richtungsabhängigen Auswertung kann beispielsweise gesteuert von verschiedenen Schallwandlern auch ein entsprechend unterschiedlicher Schall in unterschiedliche Richtungen abgestrahlt werden.In a direction-dependent evaluation, for example, controlled by different sound transducers and a correspondingly different sound can be radiated in different directions.

Wesentlich bei der Erfindung ist eine Berücksichtigung von Störungen aus der Umgebung bei der Erzeugung des entsprechenden Signals. Auch Kombinationen von akustischen und visuellen Signalerzeugern mit entsprechender Ansteuerung sind im Rahmen der Erfindung denkbar.Essential in the invention is a consideration of disturbances from the environment in the generation of the corresponding signal. Combinations of acoustic and visual signal generators with appropriate control are conceivable within the scope of the invention.

Bezugszeichenliste:

1
Signalgerät
2
Netzteil
3
Steuereinheit
4
Impulsgenerator
5
Leuchtdioden
6
Fotosensor
7
Schaltstufe
8
Transistor
9
Leitung
10
Kapazität
11
Verstärkungseinheit
12
Verstärker
13
Ausgang
14
Komparator
15
Komparator
16
Referenzspannung
17
Widerstand
18
Widerstand
19
Widerstand
20
Potential
21
Potential
22
Signalleitung
23
Signalleitung
24
Schallwandler
25
Leitung
26
Leitung
27
Sensorleitung
28
Sensorleitung
LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS
1
signaller
2
power adapter
3
control unit
4
pulse generator
5
LEDs
6
photosensor
7
switching stage
8th
transistor
9
management
10
capacity
11
amplification unit
12
amplifier
13
output
14
comparator
15
comparator
16
reference voltage
17
resistance
18
resistance
19
resistance
20
potential
21
potential
22
signal line
23
signal line
24
transducer
25
management
26
management
27
sensor line
28
sensor line

Claims (12)

  1. Signalling device, in particular for displaying operational states of engines and installations with at least two different signal generators (5, 24) for at least two different signals, whereby at least one signal generator (5, 24) can be driven electrically or electronically by a control unit (3) and whereby at least one environment sensor (6) is provided for detecting an interference variable from the environment of the signal device (1) that is impairing the perception of the signal, and the control unit (3) is designed for an interference variable-dependent signal control, characterised in that the environment sensor (6, 24) is frequency-dependent and/or direction-dependent.
  2. Signalling device according to claim 1, characterised in that there is intermittent operation of the signal generator and the signal detector.
  3. Signalling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the same component (24) is provided for generating the signal and for detecting the signal.
  4. Signalling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that a visual signal generator (5) and a visual environment sensor (6) are provided for detecting environmental light.
  5. Signalling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that an acoustic signal generator (24) and an acoustic sensor (24) are provided for the detection of environmental sound.
  6. Signalling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the environment sensor (6, 24) is sensitive to intensity.
  7. Signalling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that a control for the intensity of the signal generator (5, 24) is provided.
  8. Signalling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that a control for the frequency of the signal generator (5, 24) is provided.
  9. Signalling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that two or more controllable signal generators (5, 24) are provided.
  10. Signalling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that two or more environment sensors (6, 24) for detecting and evaluating various different interference variables are provided.
  11. Signalling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that at least one signal sensor (24) is provided for detecting the signal properties, such as the intensity, frequency, direction etc. of the signal produced by the signal generator (5, 24).
  12. Signalling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that a control of the signal produced by the signal generator (5, 24) taking into account the evaluation of the measured values detected by the signal sensor (24) and the environment sensor (6, 24) is provided.
EP20040026044 2003-11-20 2004-11-03 Signalling device Active EP1533766B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE10354363 2003-11-20
DE10354363 2003-11-20
DE10361758 2003-12-29
DE10361758A DE10361758B4 (en) 2003-11-20 2003-12-29 signaller

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP1533766A1 EP1533766A1 (en) 2005-05-25
EP1533766B1 true EP1533766B1 (en) 2006-06-14

Family

ID=34436338

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP20040026044 Active EP1533766B1 (en) 2003-11-20 2004-11-03 Signalling device

Country Status (2)

Country Link
EP (1) EP1533766B1 (en)
DE (1) DE502004000762D1 (en)

Family Cites Families (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FI90646C (en) * 1991-06-13 1994-03-10 Kone Oy Local automatic volume control of the elevator signaling device
JP2972431B2 (en) * 1992-01-29 1999-11-08 株式会社河合楽器製作所 Sound generator

Also Published As

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DE502004000762D1 (en) 2006-07-27
EP1533766A1 (en) 2005-05-25

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