JP2006189395A - Optical sensor - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an optical sensor capable of enhancing a degree of freedom in arrangement of a light receiving element. <P>SOLUTION: An arithmetic unit calculates a light propagation angle θ and a light intensity L from outputs of the light receiving elements 14, 16, based on each angle output function indicating an incident angle-output characteristic of light in each of the light receiving elements 14, 16, and each intensity output function indicating an incident intensity-output characteristic of the light. A virtual light receiving element 17 with an angle output function and an intensity output function equal to those of the light receiving element 14 (or the light receiving element 16) is formed virtually in an intermediate position between the light receiving element 14 and the light receiving element 16, and an output I<SB>P</SB>=f(L)×g(θ) of the virtual light receiving element 17 is calculated from the light propagation angle θ and the light intensity L. Since the virtual light receiving element 17 is formed virtually in the arithmetic unit, the virtual light receiving element 17 is arranged even in the place where an arranging position for the virtual light receiving element 17 is a mounting position for another member, or even under an unfavorable environment, so as to enhance the degree of freedom in the arrangement of the light receiving element. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to an optical sensor that measures at least one of a light propagation angle and a light intensity.

  As an optical sensor for measuring the light propagation angle, there is a solar radiation sensor unit in which a plurality of photodiodes are provided with their directions changed (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

  In this solar radiation sensor unit, the projected area of the photodiode onto the vertical plane of the incident direction of the solar radiation on the photodiode (the area of the solar incident surface when the angle of the incident direction of the solar radiation relative to the vertical direction of the incident surface of the photodiode is α) The output of the photodiode changes in accordance with cos α) and the output of the photodiode changes in accordance with the intensity of solar radiation incident on the photodiode. .

  However, this solar radiation sensor unit has a problem that a light receiving element must be added in order to expand the light receiving range. In addition, since light is received by an existing light receiving element and output is obtained from the received light receiving element, it is necessary to place the light receiving element at a fixed position in order to obtain a desired output. If the location of the light receiving member is a place where another member is mounted or a place under a bad environment, the light receiving member cannot be placed at that location, and the arrangement of the light receiving elements is limited. There is a problem that.

  In the solar radiation sensor unit, it is assumed that the output of the photodiode is proportional to the projected area of the photodiode. Furthermore, the relationship between the intensity of incident solar radiation and the output (incident intensity-output characteristics) needs to be equal among a plurality of photodiodes. Moreover, it is assumed that the output of the photodiode is not affected by the temperature of the photodiode.

  However, even if an attempt is made to use a currently widely available and inexpensively supplied photodiode for the solar radiation sensor unit, there is a problem that the output of the photodiode is not proportional to the projected area of the photodiode in most photodiodes. . This can be understood from the relationship between the incident angle of solar radiation to the photodiode and the output of the photodiode (incident angle-output characteristics).

  Furthermore, especially in photodiodes including amplifying stages such as phototransistors and photodarlingtons, due to variations in the amplifying stages, the above incident intensity-output characteristics are often not equal among a plurality of photodiodes. There is also a problem that must be done.

  In general, the output of a photodiode is often affected by the temperature of the photodiode.

In addition, Patent Document 1 discloses a method for correcting an error in detection of the direction of solar radiation caused by these problems and a decrease in detection accuracy in some photometry areas due to adverse environments or the like, There is no disclosure of a method for verifying a failure such as failure or deterioration of a light receiving element or circuit, or non-uniformity of the light receiving state of the light receiving element group.
JP 63-141816 A

  In consideration of the above facts, the present invention is an optical sensor capable of improving the degree of freedom of arrangement of the light receiving member, and an optical sensor capable of obtaining an output with high accuracy even when a light receiving member whose output changes according to temperature is used. An optical sensor that can reduce the number of light receiving members, an optical sensor that can expand the light receiving range without increasing the number of light receiving members, and at least one of the light propagation angle and light intensity in a three-dimensional space with high accuracy Optical sensors that can be calculated, optical sensors that can verify the failure or deterioration of the light receiving member or circuit, or the non-uniformity of the light receiving state of the light receiving member group, light reception on the vertical plane of the light incident direction Even if a light receiving member whose output is not proportional to the projected area of the surface is used, it can be output accurately, or even if a plurality of light receiving members having different intensity output functions are used To obtain a light sensor capable of is an object.

  The optical sensor according to claim 1 has a light receiving surface on which light is incident, and a plurality of light receiving members whose outputs change according to an incident angle and intensity of light incident on the light receiving surface, and the plurality of light receiving members. A virtual light receiving member is virtually formed between them, and an angle output function expressing the relationship between the light incident angle and output in the light receiving member, and the relationship between the light intensity and output in the light receiving member are expressed. Calculating means for calculating an output of the virtual light receiving member from outputs of the plurality of light receiving members based on an intensity output function and a formation position of the virtual light receiving member.

  In the optical sensor according to the first aspect, the output of the light receiving member changes according to the incident angle and intensity of light incident on the light receiving surface of the light receiving member. In addition, the calculation unit virtually forms a virtual light receiving member between the plurality of light receiving members, an angle output function expressing a relationship between an incident angle of light on the light receiving member and an output, an intensity of light on the light receiving member, and Based on the intensity output function expressing the relationship with the output and the formation position of the virtual light receiving member, the output of the virtual light receiving member is calculated from the temperature of the light receiving member and the outputs of the plurality of light receiving members.

  Therefore, even if the position of the light receiving member is a place where another member is mounted or a place in a bad environment, the virtual light receiving member can be placed in such a place. The degree of freedom of member arrangement can be improved.

  The optical sensor according to claim 2 includes a plurality of light receiving members whose outputs change according to temperature, an incident angle and intensity of incident light, temperature measuring means for measuring or estimating a temperature of the light receiving member, and the plurality of light receiving members. A virtual light receiving member is virtually formed on the light receiving member, a temperature output function expressing a relationship between temperature and output in the light receiving member, and a relationship between light incident angle and output in the light receiving member. An angle output function, an intensity output function expressing the relationship between light intensity and output in the light receiving member, and the temperature of the light receiving member measured or estimated by the temperature measuring unit based on the formation position of the virtual light receiving member And calculating means for calculating the output of the virtual light receiving member from the outputs of the plurality of light receiving members.

  In the optical sensor according to the second aspect, the output of the light receiving member changes according to the temperature of the light receiving member, the incident angle and intensity of the light incident on the light receiving member. The temperature measuring means measures or estimates the temperature of the light receiving member. Further, the calculating means virtually forms a virtual light receiving member between the plurality of light receiving members, a temperature output function expressing a relationship between the temperature and the output in the light receiving member, the light incident angle and the output in the light receiving member, The light output measured or estimated by the temperature measuring means based on the angle output function expressing the relationship of the light intensity, the intensity output function expressing the relationship between the light intensity and the output of the light receiving member, and the formation position of the virtual light receiving member The output of the virtual light receiving member is calculated from the temperature of the member and the outputs of the plurality of light receiving members.

  In this way, the calculation means calculates the output of the virtual light receiving member also using the temperature output function and the temperature of the light receiving member. Therefore, even if a light receiving member whose output varies with temperature is used, the output of the virtual light receiving member can be accurately calculated.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the optical sensor according to the first or second aspect, the calculating means includes at least a pair of the plurality of light receiving members positioned on the same two-dimensional plane as the virtual light receiving member. The output of the virtual light receiving member is calculated from the output of the light receiving member, and the output of the at least one light receiving member located in another two-dimensional plane intersecting the two-dimensional plane and the output of the virtual light receiving member are It is characterized in that at least one of a light propagation angle and a light intensity in a two-dimensional plane is calculated.

  In the optical sensor according to claim 3, the calculation unit calculates an output of the virtual light receiving member using outputs of at least a pair of light receiving members located on the same two-dimensional plane as the virtual light receiving member among the plurality of light receiving members. In addition, at least one of the light propagation angle and the light intensity in another two-dimensional plane is calculated using the output of at least one light receiving member located in another two-dimensional plane intersecting the two-dimensional plane and the output of the virtual light receiving member. .

  In this way, if the output of the virtual light receiving member is calculated using the outputs of at least a pair of light receiving members located on the same two-dimensional plane as the virtual light receiving member among the plurality of light receiving members, In order to calculate at least one of the light propagation angle and the light intensity, it is sufficient to use the output of the virtual light receiving member and the output of at least one light receiving member located on a different two-dimensional plane, so that the number of light receiving members is not increased. However, the light receiving range in another two-dimensional plane can be expanded.

  Further, by using the virtual light receiving member, it is not necessary to arrange an actual light receiving member at the position of the virtual light receiving member, and therefore the number of light receiving members can be reduced.

  The optical sensor according to claim 4 is the optical sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the plurality of light receiving members are at least three or more so that the central axes of the members are not parallel to each other. The two-dimensional plane where the at least one pair of light-receiving members is located and another two-dimensional plane where the other light-receiving members and the virtual light-receiving member are located intersect each other. The virtual light receiving member is arranged.

  In the optical sensor according to claim 4, at least three or more light receiving members are arranged so that the central axes of the members are not parallel to each other, and the calculating means includes at least a pair of light receiving members among the plurality of light receiving members. Since the virtual light-receiving member is arranged so that the two-dimensional plane that is positioned intersects another two-dimensional plane in which the other light-receiving member and virtual light-receiving member are positioned, the light propagation angle and light intensity in each two-dimensional plane are calculated. By doing so, the light propagation angle and light intensity in the three-dimensional space can be calculated.

  The optical sensor according to claim 5 is the optical sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the calculation means is located at the same position by at least two pairs of light receiving members among the plurality of light receiving members. Each of the virtual light receiving members is virtually formed, and the output of one virtual light receiving member is compared with the output of the other virtual light receiving member.

  In the optical sensor according to claim 5, the calculation unit virtually forms virtual light receiving members at the same position by at least two pairs of light receiving members among the plurality of light receiving members, and outputs from one virtual light receiving member. The output of the other virtual light receiving member is compared. This makes it possible to verify defects such as failure and deterioration of the light receiving member and circuit, or non-uniformity of the light receiving state of the light receiving member group.

  The optical sensor according to claim 6 is the optical sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the plurality of light receiving members are arranged so that incident angles of light are different from each other. It is a feature.

  In the optical sensor according to the sixth aspect, since the plurality of light receiving members are arranged so that the incident angles of light are different from each other, they can receive light in a wider range. In addition, since the position of the light receiving member that actually exists may be shifted in the normal direction of the same two-dimensional plane where the light receiving member is located, the degree of freedom of arrangement of the light receiving members can be further improved.

  An optical sensor according to a seventh aspect is the optical sensor according to any one of the first to sixth aspects, wherein the calculation means includes an incident angle and an output of light at the light receiving member as the angle output function. And an angle output function whose output is not proportional to the projected area of the light receiving surface onto the vertical plane in the light incident direction is used.

  In the optical sensor according to the seventh aspect, the output of the light receiving member changes according to the incident angle and intensity of light incident on the light receiving surface of the light receiving member. Further, the calculating means represents an angle output function in which the relationship between the light incident angle and the output of the light receiving member is expressed as an angle output function, and the output is not proportional to the projected area of the light receiving surface onto the vertical plane in the light incident direction. Is used.

  Therefore, even if a light receiving member whose output is not proportional to the projected area of the light receiving surface is used, the output of the virtual light receiving member can be accurately calculated.

  An optical sensor according to an eighth aspect of the present invention is the optical sensor according to any one of the first to sixth aspects, wherein the calculation means has a relationship between an incident angle and an output of light in the light receiving member as the angle output function. And an angle output function whose output is proportional to the projected area of the light receiving surface onto the vertical plane in the light incident direction is used.

  In the optical sensor according to the eighth aspect, the output of the light receiving member changes according to the incident angle and intensity of light incident on the light receiving surface of the light receiving member. Further, the calculating means is an angle output function in which the relationship between the light incident angle and the output of the light receiving member is expressed as an angle output function, and the output is proportional to the projected area of the light receiving surface onto the vertical plane in the light incident direction. Is used.

  Even in this case, the output of the virtual light receiving member can be calculated.

  An optical sensor according to a ninth aspect is the optical sensor according to any one of the first to eighth aspects, wherein the calculating means calculates the intensity output of the light receiving member as the intensity output function. It is characterized in that different intensity output functions are used between the plurality of light receiving members that express the relationship.

  In the optical sensor according to the ninth aspect, the output of the light receiving member changes according to the incident angle and intensity of the light incident on the light receiving member. Further, the calculation means uses an intensity output function in which the relationship between the light intensity and the output of the light receiving member is expressed as an intensity output function and is different among the plurality of light receiving members.

  Therefore, even if a plurality of light receiving members having different intensity output functions are used, the output of the virtual light receiving member can be accurately calculated.

[First Embodiment]
FIG. 1 is a side view showing a main part of a photometric sensor 10 according to a first embodiment configured by applying the photosensor of the present invention. FIG. A block diagram is shown. In this embodiment, the left side of FIG. 1 is “one side” and the right side of FIG. 1 is “other side”.

  The photometric sensor 10 according to the present embodiment includes a bent plate-like support body 12, and one side of the bent portion of the support body 12 is inclined by an angle α in a downward direction toward the one side. At the same time, the other side of the bent portion of the support 12 is inclined by an angle α in the downward direction toward the other side.

  On the support 12, rectangular parallelepiped light receiving elements 14 and 16 as light receiving members are fixed (held) on one side and the other side of the bent portion, respectively. The upper surfaces of the light receiving elements 14 and 16 are planar light receiving surfaces 14A and 16A, and the element central axis P (axis perpendicular to the light receiving surface 14A) of the light receiving surface 14A is upward in the vertical axis H upward. The element central axis Q (axis perpendicular to the light receiving surface 16A) of the light receiving surface 16A is inclined to the other side with respect to the vertical axis H upward by an angle α. Has been.

  The light receiving elements 14 and 16 output an output signal (for example, a current value) corresponding to the incident angle and intensity of the light incident on the light receiving surfaces 14A and 16A when the light enters the light receiving surfaces 14A and 16A. In this embodiment, it is assumed that light propagates in parallel to a plane parallel to the element center axis P and the element center axis Q.

  The light receiving elements 14 and 16 are connected to a pre-stage processing circuit 18 that constitutes a calculation means, and output signals output from the light receiving elements 14 and 16 are input to the pre-stage processing circuit 18, whereby the pre-stage processing circuit 18. Is converted into a signal value (a voltage value is desirable) that can be easily handled by the arithmetic unit 20 described later.

  The pre-stage processing circuit 18 is connected to an arithmetic device 20 that constitutes a calculation unit, and a signal output from the pre-stage processing circuit 18 is input to the arithmetic device 20. The arithmetic device 20 includes an A / D converter 22, and the signal input to the arithmetic device 20 is converted into a discrete value by the A / D converter 22 by being input to the A / D converter 22. . The arithmetic device 20 has an arithmetic processor 24, and the signal output from the A / D converter 22 is input to the arithmetic processor 24.

  Here, FIG. 3 shows the relationship between the light intensity L and the output I of the light receiving elements 14 and 16 (incidence) when the incident angle of light incident on the light receiving surfaces 14A and 16A of the light receiving elements 14 and 16 is constant. FIG. 4 shows an example of the light incident angle φ (element central axis) when the intensity of light incident on the light receiving surfaces 14A and 16A of the light receiving elements 14 and 16 is constant. An example of the relationship (incident angle-output characteristics) between the angles I of P, Q downward direction and the light propagation direction) and the output I of the light receiving elements 14, 16 is shown.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 4, if the incident angle φ of light that can be output from the light receiving elements 14 and 16 is an output signal that can be used effectively, 0 ≦ α ≦ β. Thereby, even when light propagates parallel to the vertical axis H, an output signal that can be used effectively by the light receiving elements 14 and 16 can be output.

The incident angle-output characteristics of the light receiving elements 14 and 16 are the outputs of the light receiving elements 14 and 16 when light enters the light receiving surfaces 14A and 16A from above in parallel to the element central axes P and Q (when φ = 0). Is standardized so that the maximum output is 1 and the maximum output is 1. Thus, the incident intensity-output characteristic of the light receiving element 14 is approximated (represented) by the intensity output function I = f (L), and the incident intensity-output characteristic of the light receiving element 16 is expressed by the intensity output function I = k × f (L ), The incident angle-output characteristics of the light receiving elements 14 and 16 are approximated by an angle output function I = g (φ), the output of the light receiving element 14 is I _1, and the output of the light receiving element 16 is I _2. and then, the incident angle of light incident on the light receiving surface 14A of the light receiving elements 14 and phi _1, when the incident angle of light incident on the light receiving surface 16A of the light receiving elements 16 and phi _2,
I ₁ = f (L) × g (φ ₁ ) (1)
I ₂ = k × f (L) × g (φ ₂ ) (2)
It becomes. Further, k is a correction coefficient that is a function or constant that does not include the intensity L and the incident angle φ as variables, and takes into account the difference in incident intensity-output characteristics between the light receiving element 14 and the light receiving element 16. It is.

The arithmetic unit 20 is configured such that a plurality of calibration reference lights (reference lights) having different intensities L that are known in advance are incident on the light receiving elements 14 and 16 in parallel to the element center axes P and Q from above. , F (L) (for example, the type of f (L)) and k are automatically determined. Further, the arithmetic unit 20 receives one or more calibration reference lights (reference lights) having a known intensity L and different known incident angles φ ₁ and φ ₂ to the light receiving elements 14 and 16. By being incident, g (φ) (for example, the type of g (φ)) is automatically determined.

In addition, when light propagates in the direction of an angle θ (one side is positive) with respect to the downward direction of the vertical axis H, the incident angle φ _{1 of the} light incident on the light receiving surface 14A of the light receiving element 14 becomes θ + α. The incident angle φ _{2 of the} light incident on the light receiving surface 16A of the light receiving element 16 is θ−α. For this reason, for example, as shown in FIG.
I ₁ = f (L) × g (θ + α) (3)
I ₂ = k × f (L) × g (θ−α) (4)
It becomes. here,
f (L) = a × L (5)
g (φ) = exp (−b × φ ² ) (6)
Then,
I ₁ = a × L × exp {−b × (θ + α) ² } (7)
I ₂ = k × a × L × exp {−b × (θ−α) ² } (8)
Because
k × (I ₁ / I ₂ ) = exp [−b × {(θ + α) ² − (θ−α) ² }]
= Exp {-4 × b × α × θ} (9)
It becomes. Thereby, the light propagation angle θ is
θ = − {1 / (4 × b × α)} × ln {k × (I ₁ / I ₂ )} (10)
Can be easily obtained. Furthermore, the light intensity L can be easily obtained from the equation (7) or (8) and the light propagation angle θ obtained from the equation (10).

  Thus, when each function (for example, Formula (10)) expressing the light propagation angle θ and the light intensity L is simple and it is easy to derive each function, the light propagation angle θ and the light intensity are obtained. The arithmetic device 20 can be configured by an electric circuit created based on each function for calculating L, and the A / D converter 22 can be omitted from the arithmetic device 20, and the arithmetic processor 24, the light propagation angle θ, and the light can be omitted. The light propagation angle θ and the light intensity L can be calculated from the calculation procedure created and implemented based on each function for calculating the intensity L.

  The arithmetic unit 20 has an element center axis within the range of an angle 2α formed by the element center axes of the light receiving elements 14 and 16 on the same two-dimensional plane as the light receiving elements 14 and 16, and an arbitrary angle output function. And a virtual light receiving element 17 having an intensity output function is virtually formed.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the arithmetic unit 20 has an element center axis parallel to the vertical axis H at an intermediate position between the light receiving element 14 and the light receiving element 16, and an angle output function and an intensity output function as the light receiving element 14 (light receiving element 16). However, a virtual light receiving element 17 equal to (possible) is virtually formed.

Accordingly, light enters the light receiving surface 17A of the virtual light receiving element 17 at an angle θ from the element central axis (vertical axis H). Assuming that the output of the virtual light receiving element 17 is I _p ,
I _p = f (L) × g (θ). Since the light intensity L and the light propagation angle θ can be calculated as described above, I _p can be easily obtained.

  Next, the operation of the present embodiment will be described.

  In the photometric sensor 10 having the above configuration, the output I of the light receiving elements 14 and 16 changes according to the incident angle φ and the intensity L of the light incident on the light receiving surfaces 14A and 16A of the light receiving elements 14 and 16. The arithmetic unit 20 also includes an angle output function I = g (φ) in which the relationship between the light incident angle φ and the output I (incident angle-output characteristics) in the light receiving elements 14 and 16 is approximately expressed, and the light receiving element. 14 and 16 based on intensity output functions I = f (L) and I = k × f (L) in which the relationship between light intensity L and output I (incident intensity-output characteristics) is approximated. The light propagation angle θ and the light intensity L are calculated from the outputs of 14 and 16.

Here, the arithmetic unit 20 has an intermediate position between the light receiving element 14 and the light receiving element 16, the element central axis is parallel to the vertical axis H, and the angle output function and the intensity output function are the light receiving element 14 (the light receiving element 16 is also acceptable). The same virtual light receiving element 17 is virtually formed, and the output I _p = f (L) × g (θ) of the virtual light receiving element 17 is calculated from the light propagation angle θ and the light intensity L calculated as described above.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the virtual light receiving element 17 is virtually formed in the arithmetic unit 20, and therefore, the placement position of the virtual light receiving element 17 is a place where another member is mounted or in a place under a bad environment. Even if it exists, since a virtual light receiving element can be arrange | positioned in such a place, the freedom degree of light receiving element arrangement | positioning can be improved.

The arithmetic unit 20 also outputs an angle output function I = in which the output I is not proportional to the projected area of the light receiving surfaces 14A and 16A on the vertical plane in the light incident direction (the area of the light receiving surfaces 14A and 16A multiplied by cos φ). Based on g (φ) = exp (−b × φ ² ), the light propagation angle θ and the light intensity L are calculated. Thereby, even if the light receiving elements 14 and 16 whose output I is not proportional to the projected areas of the light receiving surfaces 14A and 16A are used, the light propagation angle θ and the light intensity L can be accurately measured. For this reason, the light propagation angle θ and the light intensity L can be accurately measured even when using the light receiving elements 14 and 16 that are currently widely available and are inexpensively supplied and easily available.

  Further, the arithmetic unit 20 calculates the light propagation angle θ and the light intensity L based on the intensity output functions I = f (L) and I = k × f (L) that are different between the light receiving elements 14 and 16. Thereby, even if the light receiving elements 14 and 16 having different intensity output functions are used, the light propagation angle θ and the light intensity L can be accurately measured. For this reason, it is possible to eliminate the necessity of selecting the light receiving elements 14 and 16.

Further, since the light receiving elements 14 and 16 are arranged so that the incident angles φ of the light to the light receiving surfaces 14A and 16A are different from each other (α = 0), the light receiving elements 14 of the light receiving elements 14 are not provided as in the present embodiment. The angle output function is expressed by the product of a function or constant that does not include the incident angle φ and intensity L of light as variables and the angle output function of the light receiving element 16 (in this embodiment, the angle between the light receiving element 14 and the light receiving element 16). The output function is the same (I = g (φ)), and the intensity output function of the light receiving element 14 does not include the incident angle φ and intensity L of light as variables and the intensity of the light receiving element 16 The intensity output function (I = k × f (L)) of the light receiving element 16 is expressed by the product of the output function (in this embodiment, k of the intensity output function (I = f (L)) of the light receiving element 14. Even if the calculation device 20 is It can be calculated propagation angle θ and the light intensity L. That is, in the present embodiment, light that is two variables is obtained from two expressions of I ₁ = f (L) × g (θ + α) and I ₂ = k × f (L) × g (θ−α). The propagation angle θ and the light intensity L can be calculated.

Further, the arithmetic unit 20 receives a plurality of calibration reference lights having different intensities L, which are known in advance, incident on the light receiving elements 14 and 16 from above in parallel to the element center axes P and Q, respectively. The output function f (L), k × f (L) is automatically determined. Moreover, the arithmetic unit 20 allows one or a plurality of calibration reference lights having different known intensities L and different known incident angles φ ₁ and φ ₂ to be incident on the light receiving elements 14 and 16. Thus, the angle output function g (φ) is automatically determined. In particular, when it is determined that f (L) = a × L and g (φ) = exp (−b × φ ² ), the arithmetic unit 20 uses the calibration reference light as the light receiving elements 14, 16. A, b, and k are automatically determined. Thereby, the angle output function g (φ), the intensity output function f (L), and k × f (L) can be easily calculated.

[Second Embodiment]
FIG. 6 shows a block diagram of a photometric sensor 30 according to a second embodiment configured by applying the photosensor of the present invention.

  The photometric sensor 30 according to the present embodiment has substantially the same configuration as the photometric sensor 10 according to the first embodiment, but differs in the following points.

  The photometric sensor 30 according to the present embodiment includes a temperature measuring element 32 as temperature measuring means. The temperature measuring element 32 is fixed to a bent portion of the support 12, and the light receiving element 14, the light receiving element 16, and the like. It is arranged in the center of. The temperature measuring element 32 is disposed in the vicinity of the light receiving elements 14 and 16 and is assumed to have the same temperature as the light receiving elements 14 and 16. The temperature measuring element 32 measures the temperature of the temperature measuring element 32 itself. Thus, the measured temperature is estimated as the temperature of the light receiving elements 14 and 16.

  The light receiving elements 14 and 16 receive light incident on the light receiving surfaces 14A and 16A, so that an output signal (not only depending on the incident angle and intensity of the light incident on the light receiving surfaces 14A and 16A but also the temperature of the light receiving elements 14 and 16 ( For example, current value) is output.

  The temperature measuring element 32 is connected to the pre-processing circuit 18, and the output signal output from the temperature measuring element 32 is similar to the output signal output from the light receiving elements 14, 16, and further to the pre-processing circuit 18. The signal is input to the A / D converter 22 of the arithmetic unit 20 and processed in the same manner as the output signals output from the light receiving elements 14 and 16. Further, the signal output from the A / D converter 22 of the arithmetic device 20 from the temperature measuring element 32 via the pre-processing circuit 18 is input to the arithmetic processor 24 of the arithmetic device 20.

Here, the relationship between the temperature t of the light receiving elements 14 and 16 and the output I of the light receiving elements 14 and 16 when the incident angle and intensity of light incident on the light receiving surfaces 14A and 16A of the light receiving elements 14 and 16 are constant ( When the temperature-output characteristic) is approximated (representative) by the temperature output function (temperature correction function) I = j (t), the expressions (1) and (2) in the first embodiment are as follows.
I ₁ = j (t) × f (L) × g (φ ₁ ) (11)
I ₂ = j (t) × k × f (L) × g (φ ₂ ) (12)
Changed to

By the way, the temperature output function I = j (t) is known in advance, and the numerical value of j (t) can be obtained from the temperature t of the light receiving elements 14 and 16 (temperature measured by the temperature measuring element 32). Thus, for example, I ₁ and I ₂ are corrected by j (t),
I ₁ '= I ₁ / j (t) = f (L) × g (φ ₁ ) (1) ′
I ₂ ′ = I ₂ / j (t) = k × f (L) × g (φ ₂ ) (2) ′
Then, as in the first embodiment, the arithmetic processor 24 of the arithmetic unit 20 can determine the light propagation angle θ and the light intensity L.

  Then, the arithmetic unit 20 virtually forms a virtual light receiving element 17 having an angle output function and an intensity output function equal to the light receiving element 14 (or the light receiving element 16 is acceptable) at an intermediate position between the light receiving element 14 and the light receiving element 16.

The output I _p of the virtual light receiving element 17 is obtained from the equation (11).
I _p = j (t) × f (L) × g (θ). Since the numerical value of j (t), the light intensity L, and the light propagation angle θ can be calculated as described above, I _p can be easily obtained.

  Next, the operation of the present embodiment will be described.

  In the photometric sensor 30 having the above configuration, the output I of the light receiving elements 14 and 16 changes according to the temperature t at the light receiving elements 14 and 16, the incident angle φ and the intensity L of the light incident on the light receiving surfaces 14A and 16A. Further, the temperature measuring element 32 estimates the temperature t of the light receiving elements 14 and 16. Further, the arithmetic unit 20 calculates the temperature output function I = j (t) in which the relationship (temperature-output characteristics) between the temperature t and the output I in the light receiving elements 14 and 16 is approximately expressed, and the light output in the light receiving elements 14 and 16. An angle output function I = g (φ) in which the relationship between the incident angle φ and the output I (incident angle-output characteristics) is approximately expressed, and the relationship between the light intensity L and the output I in the light receiving elements 14 and 16 ( The temperature t of the light receiving elements 14 and 16 estimated by the temperature measuring element 32 based on the intensity output function I = f (L), I = k × f (L) in which the incident intensity-output characteristic) is approximated. The light propagation angle θ and the light intensity L are calculated from the outputs of the light receiving elements 14 and 16.

Here, the arithmetic unit 20 has an intermediate position between the light receiving element 14 and the light receiving element 16, the element central axis is parallel to the vertical axis H, and the angle output function and the intensity output function are the light receiving element 14 (the light receiving element 16 is also acceptable). The virtual light receiving element 17 is virtually formed from the temperature t of the light receiving elements 14 and 16 estimated by the temperature measuring element 32 and the light propagation angle θ and the light intensity L calculated as described above. The output I _p = j (t) × f (L) × g (θ) is calculated.

  Here, also in this embodiment, the same effect as that of the first embodiment can be obtained.

  Further, the arithmetic unit 20 calculates the output of the virtual light receiving element 17 using the temperature output function I = j (t) and the temperature t of the light receiving elements 14 and 16 as well. Therefore, the output of the virtual light receiving element 17 can be accurately calculated even if a light receiving element whose output varies with temperature is used.

In the present embodiment, the pre-processing circuit 18 is configured to output signal values corresponding to I ₁ and I ₂ to the arithmetic device 20 (A / D converter 22 or arithmetic processor 24). The circuit 18 obtains I ₁ ′ = I ₁ / j (t) and I ₂ ′ = I ₂ / j (t), so that the arithmetic unit 20 (the A / D converter 22 or the arithmetic processor 24) receives I ₁ signal value corresponding to 'and I _2' may be configured to output.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the temperature measuring element 32 estimates the temperature t of the light receiving elements 14 and 16, but for example, a temperature measuring element (temperature measuring means) is provided in the light receiving element (light receiving member). The temperature measuring element may be configured to measure the temperature of the light receiving element.

  In the present embodiment, the temperature output functions I = j (t) of the two light receiving elements 14 and 16 are the same. However, the temperature output functions of the plurality of light receiving elements (light receiving members) are different from each other. It is good.

  Further, in the present embodiment, it is assumed that the temperature t of the two light receiving elements 14 and 16 is the same. However, the temperatures of the plurality of light receiving elements (light receiving members) may be different from each other. It is good also as a structure on the assumption.

Furthermore, in the first and second embodiments, f (L) = a × L and g (φ) = exp (−b × φ ² ), but f (L) and g (φ) can be anything as long as they can approximate the incident intensity-output characteristic and incident angle-output characteristic within the required accuracy. But you can. For example, when it is necessary to approximate the incident intensity-output characteristic and the incident angle-output characteristic with higher accuracy, p and q are functions or real constants that do not include the intensity L and the incident angle φ as variables.
f (L) = a × L ^p (13)
g (φ) = exp (−b × φ ^q ) (14)
The configuration may be as follows.

In this case, according to equations (3) and (4)
In the first embodiment,
I ₁ = a × L ^p × exp {−b × (θ + α) ^q } (15)
I ₂ = k × a × L ^p × exp {−b × (θ−α) ^q } (16)
And
In the second embodiment,
I ₁ '= I ₁ / j (t) = a × L ^p × exp {−b × (θ + α) ^q }
... (15) '
I ₂ ′ = I ₂ / j (t) = k × a × L ^p × exp {−b × (θ−α) ^q }
... (16) '
Because
k × (I ₁ / I ₂ ) = exp [−b × {(θ + α) ^q − (θ−α) ^q }]
... (17)
It becomes.

As described above, when a complicated approximation function is adopted by f (L) and g (φ), the electronic circuit of the arithmetic unit 20 is configured, and the function expressing the light propagation angle θ and the light intensity L is expressed. Deriving is often very difficult or impossible. Therefore, in such a case, from the equation (17), the numerical value of k × (I ₁ / I ₂ ) (the light propagation angle as necessary in addition to the outputs I ₁ and I ₂ of the light receiving elements 14 and 16) A first numerical value table is created (derived) as an output angle relationship indicating a correspondence relationship between a numerical value of the light propagation angle θ and a numerical value of only the function or constant not including θ and light intensity L as variables. At the same time, from the formula (15) and the formula (16) or the formula (15) ′ and the formula (16) ′, light propagation as required in addition to the predetermined numerical values (outputs I ₁ and I ₂ of the light receiving elements 14 and 16) When a second numerical value table is generated as an output intensity relationship indicating a correspondence relationship between a numerical value of the light intensity L) and a numerical value obtained by using only a function or constant that does not include the angle θ and the light intensity L as variables. It is stored in the storage area of the device 20. Accordingly, the numerical value of k × (I ₁ / I ₂ ) and the predetermined numerical value are obtained by using the first numerical value table and the second numerical value table by the arithmetic processor 24 of the arithmetic device 20 and the implemented search procedure and arithmetic procedure. From this, the numerical value of the light propagation angle θ and the numerical value of the light intensity L can be derived (the light propagation angle θ and the light intensity L are calculated).

  Further, as described above, the first numerical value table is obtained by the expression (17) derived from the expression (15) or (15) ′ that is the intensity output function and the expression (16) or (16) ′ that is the angle output function. ), The first numerical value table can be easily created, and the second numerical value table can be expressed by the equations (15) and (16) or the equations (15) ′ and (16). If it can be created based on ', the second numerical value table can be easily created.

In the first embodiment and the second embodiment, the angle output function of the light receiving element 14 and the angle output function of the light receiving element 16 are the same (I = g (φ)). The angle output function of the light receiving element 14 may not be expressed by the product of a function or constant that does not include the light incident angle φ and intensity L as variables and the angle output function of the light receiving element 16. In this case, for example, if the angle output function of the light receiving element 14 is I = g (φ) and the angle output function of the light receiving element 16 is I = h (φ),
g (φ) = exp (−b × φ) (18)
h (φ) = {1 + cosφ} / 2 (19)
And As a result, the light receiving elements 14 and 16 are not arranged so that the light incident angles φ are different from each other on the light receiving surfaces 14A and 16A (α = 0), and the intensity output function of the light receiving element 14 is the light incident angle φ. Even when expressed by the product of a function or constant not including the intensity L as a variable and the intensity output function of the light receiving element 16, the arithmetic unit 20 can calculate the light propagation angle θ and the light intensity L. That is, for example, even if α = 0, in the first embodiment, the two expressions I ₁ = f (L) × g (θ) and I ₂ = k × f (L) × h (θ) In the second embodiment, I ₁ ′ = I ₁ / j (t) = f (L) × g (θ) and I ₂ ′ = I ₂ / j (t) = k × f (L) × h (θ ), The two parameters, the light propagation angle θ and the light intensity L, can be calculated.

  Further, in the first embodiment and the second embodiment, the intensity output function (I = k × f (L)) of the light receiving element 16 is changed to the intensity output function (I = f (L)) of the light receiving element 14. ), But the intensity output function of the light receiving element 14 is not represented by the product of a function or constant that does not include the light incident angle φ and intensity L as variables and the intensity output function of the light receiving element 16. It is good. Accordingly, the light receiving elements 14 and 16 are not arranged so that the light incident angles φ are different from each other (α = 0), and the angle output function of the light receiving element 14 includes the light incident angle φ and the intensity L as variables. Even when expressed by the product of a function or constant that is not present and the angle output function of the light receiving element 16, the arithmetic unit 20 can calculate the light propagation angle θ and the light intensity L.

Furthermore, in the first embodiment and the second embodiment, the arithmetic unit 20 uses the projected areas of the light receiving surfaces 14A and 16A (the light receiving surfaces 14A, The angle output function I = g (φ) = exp (−b × φ ² ) in which the output I is not proportional to the area obtained by multiplying the area of 16A by cos φ is described as the angle output function. Angle output function I = g (φ) = exp (−b ×) in which the output I is proportional to the projected area of the light receiving surfaces 14A and 16A on the vertical plane of the direction (the area of the light receiving surfaces 14A and 16A multiplied by cos φ) φ ² ) may be used. Even in this way, the output of the virtual light receiving element 17 can be calculated.

[Third Embodiment]
FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing the main part of the photometric sensor 40 according to the third embodiment configured by applying the photosensor of the present invention and the incident angle-output characteristics of the light receiving element in the photometric sensor 40. It is shown.

  The photometric sensor 40 according to the present embodiment has substantially the same configuration as the photometric sensor 10 according to the first embodiment, but differs in the following points.

  The photometric sensor 40 according to the present embodiment includes a support 42 having a trapezoidal cross section, and the length of the support 42 in the horizontal direction (X direction) is twice the length in the vertical direction (Y direction). It has become. The light receiving elements 13, 14, 15, and 16 are fixed to the inclined surface of the support 42.

  The arithmetic unit 20 virtually forms the virtual light receiving element 17 on the upper surface of the support 42 and uses the outputs of the pair of light receiving elements 13 and 15 located on the same two-dimensional plane 44 as the virtual light receiving element 17. The output of the virtual light receiving element 17 is calculated, and another two-dimensional plane is obtained by using the output of the light receiving element 14 or 16 and the output of the virtual light receiving element 17 located on another two-dimensional plane 46 intersecting the two-dimensional plane 44. The light propagation angle θ and the light intensity L at 46 are calculated.

  Next, the operation of the present embodiment will be described.

  In the photometric sensor 40 having the above configuration, the output I of the light receiving elements 13 and 15 changes according to the incident angle φ and the intensity L of the light incident on the light receiving surfaces of the light receiving elements 13 and 15. The arithmetic unit 20 also includes an angle output function I = g (φ) in which the relationship between the light incident angle φ and the output I (incident angle-output characteristics) in the light receiving elements 13 and 15 is approximately expressed, and the light receiving element. Based on the intensity output functions I = f (L) and I = k × f (L) in which the relationship between the light intensity L and the output I (incident intensity-output characteristics) in 13 and 15 is approximated. From the outputs 13 and 15, the light propagation angle θ and the light intensity L in the two-dimensional plane 44 where the light receiving elements 13 and 15 are located are calculated.

Here, the arithmetic unit 20 has an angle output function and an intensity output function on the upper surface of the support 42 positioned on the two-dimensional plane 44 at an intermediate position between the light receiving element 13 and the light receiving element 15. Virtual light receiving element 17 equal to (possible) is virtually formed, and output I _p = f (L) × g (θ) of virtual light receiving element 17 is calculated from light propagation angle θ and light intensity L calculated as described above. To do.

  Furthermore, the arithmetic unit 20 outputs the outputs of the light receiving element 14 and the virtual light receiving element 17 based on the angle output function I = g (φ) and the intensity output function I = f (L) of the light receiving element 14 and the virtual light receiving element 17. From the above, the light propagation angle θ and the light intensity L in the two-dimensional plane 44 where the light receiving elements 14 and 16 are located are calculated. The virtual light receiving element 17 and the light receiving element 17 and the light receiving element 16 based on the angle output function I = g (φ), the intensity output function I = f (L), and I = k × f (L). From the output of the element 16, the light propagation angle θ and the light intensity L in the two-dimensional plane 46 where the light receiving elements 14 and 16 are located may be calculated.

  As described above, if the output of the virtual light receiving element 17 is calculated using the outputs of the pair of light receiving elements 13 and 15 located on the same two-dimensional plane 44 as the virtual light receiving element 17, In order to calculate the light propagation angle θ and the light intensity L, the output of the virtual light receiving element 17 and the output of one of the light receiving elements 14 and 16 located on another two-dimensional plane 46 may be used.

  Therefore, the angle formed by the element central axes of the light receiving element 14 and the light receiving element 16 can be 2α, and the light receiving range of the two-dimensional plane 46 can be doubled with respect to the light receiving range α of the two-dimensional plane 44. . In this way, the light receiving range in another two-dimensional plane 46 can be expanded without increasing the number of light receiving elements.

  In addition, by using the virtual light receiving element 17, it is not necessary to arrange an actual light receiving element at the position of the virtual light receiving element 17, so that the number of light receiving elements can be reduced. Further, even if the light receiving element 14 or the light receiving element 16 is omitted from this configuration, a light receiving range (measurement range) equivalent to the two-dimensional plane 44 can be secured. Thereby, the number of light receiving elements can be further reduced.

[Fourth Embodiment]
FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing the main part of the photometric sensor 50 according to the fourth embodiment configured by applying the photosensor of the present invention and the incident angle-output characteristics of the light receiving element in the photometric sensor 50. It is shown.

  The photometric sensor 50 according to the present embodiment has substantially the same configuration as the photometric sensor 10 according to the first embodiment, but differs in the following points.

  The photometric sensor 50 according to the present embodiment includes a support body 52 having a trapezoidal cross section. The light receiving elements 13 and 14 are arranged on the inclined surface of the support body 52 so that the center axes of the elements are not parallel to each other. , 15 and 16 are respectively fixed.

  The arithmetic unit 20 is configured so that the two-dimensional plane 54 where the pair of light receiving elements 13 and 15 are located and another two-dimensional plane 56 where the other light receiving elements 14 or the light receiving elements 16 and the virtual light receiving elements 17 are located intersect each other. A virtual light receiving element 17 is disposed.

  Next, the operation of the present embodiment will be described.

  In the photometric sensor 50 having the above configuration, the output I of the light receiving elements 13 and 15 changes according to the incident angle φ and the intensity L of the light incident on the light receiving surfaces of the light receiving elements 13 and 15. The arithmetic unit 20 also includes an angle output function I = g (φ) in which the relationship between the light incident angle φ and the output I (incident angle-output characteristics) in the light receiving elements 13 and 15 is approximately expressed, and the light receiving element. Based on the intensity output functions I = f (L) and I = k × f (L) in which the relationship between the light intensity L and the output I (incident intensity-output characteristics) in 13 and 15 is approximated. From the outputs 13 and 15, the light propagation angle θ and the light intensity L in the two-dimensional plane 44 where the light receiving elements 13 and 15 are located are calculated.

Here, in the arithmetic unit 20, the two-dimensional plane 54 where the pair of light receiving elements 13 and 15 are located and another two-dimensional plane 56 where the other light receiving elements 14 or the light receiving elements 16 and the virtual light receiving elements 17 are located intersect. Thus, the virtual light receiving element 17 is arranged. The arithmetic unit 20 assumes that the angle output function and the intensity output function of the virtual light receiving element 17 are the same as those of the light receiving element 13 (or the light receiving element 15), and the virtual light receiving element 17 calculates the virtual light from the light propagation angle θ and the light intensity L calculated as described above. The output I _p = f (L) × g (θ) of the light receiving element 17 is calculated.

  Furthermore, the arithmetic unit 20 outputs the outputs of the light receiving element 14 and the virtual light receiving element 17 based on the angle output function I = g (φ) and the intensity output function I = f (L) of the light receiving element 14 and the virtual light receiving element 17. From the above, the light propagation angle θ and the light intensity L in the two-dimensional plane 44 where the light receiving elements 14 and 16 are located are calculated. The virtual light receiving element 17 and the light receiving element 17 and the light receiving element 16 based on the angle output function I = g (φ), the intensity output function I = f (L), and I = k × f (L). From the output of the element 16, the light propagation angle θ and the light intensity L in the two-dimensional plane 46 where the light receiving elements 14 and 16 are located may be calculated.

  Thus, by calculating the light propagation angle θ and the light intensity L in the two-dimensional planes 54 and 56, the light propagation angle θ and the light intensity L in the three-dimensional space including the two-dimensional planes 54 and 56 are calculated. Can do.

  If the light propagation angle θ and the light intensity L are output from the photometric sensor 10 (the arithmetic processor 24 of the arithmetic unit 20), the light propagation angle θ and the light intensity L are output as numerical values. When the sensor 10 is used for controlling the direction of a controlled object (for example, a vehicle sun visor) and needs fine control of the controlled object (for example, a sun visor for a driver seat and a sun visor for a passenger seat) The photometric sensor 10 can control the direction of the controlled object satisfactorily even in the case where the orientations are different.

[Fifth Embodiment]
FIG. 9 shows an explanatory diagram of a photometric sensor 60 according to a ninth embodiment configured by applying the optical sensor of the present invention, and FIG. 10 verifies the non-uniformity of the light receiving state. A flow chart showing the flow is shown.

  The photometric sensor 60 according to the present embodiment has substantially the same configuration as the photometric sensor 10 according to the first embodiment, but differs in the following points.

  As shown in FIG. 9, the photometric sensor 60 according to the present embodiment includes a support body 62 having a trapezoidal cross section, and the element center axes are not parallel to each other on the inclined surface of the support body 62. The light receiving elements 13, 14, 15, and 16 are fixed, respectively.

  The arithmetic unit 20 virtually forms the first virtual light receiving element 17 using the outputs of the pair of light receiving elements 13 and 15, and uses the outputs of the pair of light receiving elements 14 and 16. , 15, the second virtual light receiving element 17 is formed at the same position as the position where the first virtual light receiving element 17 is virtually formed. Further, the arithmetic unit 20 calculates the output of each virtual light receiving element 17 and compares the output of one virtual light receiving element 17 with the output of the other virtual light receiving element 17.

  Next, the operation of the present embodiment will be described.

  In the photometric sensor 60 having the above configuration, the output I of the light receiving elements 13 and 15 changes according to the incident angle φ and the intensity L of the light incident on the light receiving surfaces of the light receiving elements 13 and 15. When receiving the output check signal of the virtual light receiving element transmitted from the external device, the arithmetic unit 20 executes a program for verifying the non-uniformity of the light receiving state.

  First, the arithmetic unit 20 confirms whether the output A and the output B of each virtual light receiving element 17 match (step S1). That is, the arithmetic unit 20 includes an angle output function I = g (φ) in which the relationship between the light incident angle φ and the output I (incident angle-output characteristics) in the light receiving elements 13 and 15 is approximately expressed, and the light receiving element. Based on the intensity output functions I = f (L) and I = k × f (L) in which the relationship between the light intensity L and the output I (incident intensity-output characteristics) in 13 and 15 is approximated. From the outputs 13 and 15, the light propagation angle θ and the light intensity L in the two-dimensional plane 64 where the light receiving elements 13 and 15 are located are calculated.

Further, the arithmetic unit 20 has an angle output function and an intensity output function on the upper surface of the support 62 positioned on the two-dimensional plane 64 at an intermediate position between the light receiving element 13 and the light receiving element 15. ) Is virtually formed, and the output I _p = f (L) × g (θ) of the first virtual light receiving element 17 is calculated from the light propagation angle θ and the light intensity L calculated as described above. Is calculated.

  On the other hand, for the light receiving elements 14 and 16, the output I of the light receiving elements 14 and 16 changes according to the incident angle φ and intensity L of the light incident on the light receiving surfaces of the light receiving elements 14 and 16. The arithmetic unit 20 also includes an angle output function I = g (φ) in which the relationship between the light incident angle φ and the output I (incident angle-output characteristics) in the light receiving elements 14 and 16 is approximately expressed, and the light receiving element. 14 and 16 based on intensity output functions I = f (L) and I = k × f (L) in which the relationship between light intensity L and output I (incident intensity-output characteristics) is approximated. 14 and 16, the light propagation angle θ and the light intensity L in the two-dimensional plane 66 where the light receiving elements 14 and 16 are located are calculated.

Further, the arithmetic unit 20 uses the outputs of the pair of light receiving elements 14 and 16 to provide an angle output function at the same position as the position where the first virtual light receiving element 17 is virtually formed by the pair of light receiving elements 13 and 15. And a second virtual light receiving element 17 having an intensity output function equal to that of the light receiving element 14 (or the light receiving element 16 is acceptable), and the second virtual light receiving element 17 is calculated from the light propagation angle θ and the light intensity L calculated as described above. The output I _p = f (L) × g (θ) of the light receiving element 17 is calculated.

  Then, the arithmetic unit 20 compares the output A of one virtual light receiving element 17 with the output B of the other virtual light receiving element 17. When the output A of one virtual light receiving element 17 and the output B of the other virtual light receiving element 17 match (step S1: YES), it is determined that the circuit state and the light receiving state are normal (step S2). . In this case, the arithmetic unit 20 outputs a signal indicating that it is normal to the external device.

  On the other hand, if the output A of one virtual light receiving element 17 and the output B of the other virtual light receiving element 17 do not match (step S1: NO), it is determined that the circuit state and the light receiving state are abnormal (step). S3). In this case, the arithmetic unit 20 outputs a signal indicating an abnormality to the external device. As a result, it is possible to verify defects such as failure and deterioration of the light receiving elements 13, 14, 15, 16 and circuits, or non-uniformity of the light receiving state of the light receiving element group.

  In the third, fourth, and fifth embodiments described above, a temperature measuring element 32 that measures or estimates the temperature of the light receiving elements 13, 14, 15, and 16 is provided as in the second embodiment. The output of the virtual light receiving element may be calculated using the temperature output function and the temperature of the light receiving elements 13, 14, 15, 16 as well as the light propagation angle θ and the light intensity L.

[Sixth Embodiment]
FIG. 11 shows a top view of the main part of a photometric sensor 70 according to a sixth embodiment configured by applying the photosensor of the present invention. FIG. 11A shows a top view of the main part of the photometric sensor 10 according to the first embodiment for reference, and FIGS. 11B and 11C show the light of the present invention. The top view of the principal part of the photometric sensor 70 which concerns on 6th Embodiment comprised by applying a sensor is shown.

  The photometric sensor 70 according to the present embodiment has substantially the same configuration as the photometric sensor 10 according to the first embodiment, but differs in the following points.

  In the photometric sensor 70 of the present embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 11B and 11C, the light receiving elements 14 and 16 are disposed on the support 72 so that the incident angles of light are different from each other. The positions of the actual light receiving elements 14 and 16 are shifted in the normal direction of the same two-dimensional plane 74 where the light receiving elements 14 and 16 are located.

  As described above, the light receiving elements 14 and 16 may be arranged so as to be shifted in the normal direction of the same two-dimensional plane 74 where the light receiving elements 14 and 16 are located. Therefore, the degree of freedom of arrangement of the light receiving elements 14 and 16 can be further improved. .

  Further, since the light receiving elements 14 and 16 are arranged so that the incident angles of light are different from each other, they can receive light in a wider range.

It is a side view which shows the principal part of the photometric sensor which concerns on the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram of the photometric sensor which concerns on the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a graph which shows the incident intensity-output characteristic of the light receiving element in the photometric sensor which concerns on the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a graph which shows the incident angle-output characteristic of the light receiving element in the photometric sensor which concerns on the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a graph which shows the relationship between the light propagation angle in the photometric sensor which concerns on the 1st Embodiment of this invention, the output of two real light receiving elements, and the output of a virtual light receiving element. It is a block diagram of the photometric sensor which concerns on the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing of the photometric sensor which concerns on the 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing of the photometric sensor which concerns on the 4th Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing of the photometric sensor which concerns on the 5th Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the flow which verifies the nonuniformity of the light reception state of the photometric sensor which concerns on the 5th Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing of the photometric sensor which concerns on the 6th Embodiment of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

  10, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70 ... photometric sensor (optical sensor), 12, 42, 52, 62, 72 ... support, 13, 14, 15, 16 ... light receiving element (light receiving member), 14A, 16A DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS ... Light-receiving surface, 17 ... Virtual light receiving element, 18 ... Pre-processing circuit (calculation means), 20 Arithmetic apparatus (calculation means), 22 ... A / D converter, 24 ... Arithmetic processor, 32 ... Temperature measuring element (temperature measuring means)

Claims (9)

A plurality of light-receiving members having a light-receiving surface on which light is incident and whose output changes according to the incident angle and intensity of the light incident on the light-receiving surface;
A virtual light receiving member is virtually formed between the plurality of light receiving members, and an angle output function expressing a relationship between an incident angle and an output of light in the light receiving member, and an intensity and an output of light in the light receiving member A calculation means for calculating an output of the virtual light receiving member from outputs of the plurality of light receiving members based on an intensity output function expressing a relationship and a formation position of the virtual light receiving member;
With optical sensor. A plurality of light receiving members whose outputs change according to temperature, incident angle and intensity of incident light;
Temperature measuring means for measuring or estimating the temperature of the light receiving member;
A virtual light receiving member is virtually formed between the plurality of light receiving members, a temperature output function expressing a relationship between temperature and output in the light receiving member, and a relationship between light incident angle and output in the light receiving member. The received light measured or estimated by the temperature measuring unit based on the expressed angle output function, the intensity output function expressing the relationship between the light intensity and the output of the light receiving member, and the formation position of the virtual light receiving member Calculating means for calculating the output of the virtual light receiving member from the temperature of the member and the outputs of the plurality of light receiving members;
With optical sensor.   The calculation means calculates an output of the virtual light receiving member using outputs of at least a pair of light receiving members located in the same two-dimensional plane as the virtual light receiving member among the plurality of light receiving members, and the two-dimensional plane. Calculating at least one of the light propagation angle and the light intensity in the other two-dimensional plane using the output of the at least one light-receiving member located in another two-dimensional plane intersecting with the output of the virtual light-receiving member. The optical sensor according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The plurality of light receiving members are arranged in at least three or more so that the central axes of the members are not parallel to each other,
The calculation means is configured so that the two-dimensional plane in which at least one pair of light receiving members is located and another two-dimensional plane in which the other light receiving members and the virtual light receiving member are intersected with each other. 4. The optical sensor according to claim 1, wherein a light receiving member is disposed.   The calculating means virtually forms the virtual light receiving member at the same position by at least two pairs of light receiving members among the plurality of light receiving members, and outputs the one virtual light receiving member and the other virtual light receiving member. The optical sensor according to claim 1, wherein the optical sensor is compared with any one of claims 1 to 4.   The optical sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the plurality of light receiving members are arranged so that incident angles of light are different from each other.   The calculation means is an angle output in which the relationship between the light incident angle and the output of the light receiving member is expressed as the angle output function, and the output is not proportional to the projected area of the light receiving surface onto the vertical plane of the light incident direction. The optical sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein a function is used.   The calculating means outputs, as the angle output function, an angle output in which a relationship between an incident angle of light on the light receiving member and an output is expressed and an output is proportional to a projected area of the light receiving surface onto a vertical plane in the light incident direction. The optical sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein a function is used.   2. The calculation unit according to claim 1, wherein the intensity output function uses an intensity output function that expresses a relationship between light intensity and output in the light receiving member and is different among the plurality of light receiving members. The optical sensor according to claim 8.

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