JP2014058207A - External detection device and detection method - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a detection device and a detection method that can determine or predict more easily with higher accuracy a state in which a pedal is stepped in and future danger.SOLUTION: A detection device 100 includes, a variation mechanism which varies the relative distance between a base body 11 and a cover body 12, a light reception part 15 which is provided on or above the base body, and receives light from a light emission part 14 when the light emission part and cover body are not stepped toward the base body, a shield body 13 which cuts off the light from the light emission part by utilizing the variation mechanism when the cover body is stepped toward the base body, and a control part 18. The control part connects with a pilot lamp L1 arranged before a driver's seat by wire or wireless, and performs control so that the pilot lamp illuminates or illuminates with higher brightness by the light reception part which does not sense the light when the cover body is stepped toward the base body, and goes out or illuminates with lower brightness by the light reception part which senses the light when the cover body is not stepped in.

Description

  The present invention relates to an external detection device for each pedal and a detection method for detecting whether or not an accelerator pedal and a brake pedal of a moving means represented by an automobile are depressed.

  In general, an accelerator pedal of an automobile has an accelerator pedal disposed on the right side of the foot of the driver's seat, and a brake pedal is disposed on the left side of the accelerator pedal. Then, during driving, the driver usually performs a speed adjustment operation while stepping between the two pedals positioned on the left and right without looking at his / her feet.

  By the way, in recent years, accidents caused by mistakes in the depression of accelerator pedals and brake pedals of automobiles have frequently occurred. One of the reasons why this stepping error occurs is that, as described above, the accelerator pedal and the brake pedal are at the foot of the driver's seat, and the driver usually drives while looking only forward. It is unlikely that the above problems will disappear if there is no effective countermeasure plan.

  The inventor of the present application has provided a basic solution for solving the above problems prior to the present application (Patent Document 1). However, the development of more accurate, simpler, cheaper and more versatile detection devices and detection methods to solve the above-mentioned problems that have become social problems is still halfway.

JP 2012-46161 A

  As described above, in driving a moving means represented by an automobile, a driver operates based on the “habituation” and “intuition” acquired by repeated training and gaining experience. However, even if it is actually a skilled person, a misstep accident has occurred, so the cause has not yet been elucidated. Unless some effective measures are taken, the above accidents will not decrease.

  Specific examples of accidents include when an unexpected event occurs during driving (such as a sudden jump out of the road by a child), or when a car is started again after being temporarily stopped at a parking lot or level crossing. Accidents. In such cases, the driver may be distracted and step on the wrong pedal by momentarily forgetting the position of the accelerator and brake pedals or inadvertently acting on the wrong foot. It happens that.

  In view of the above-described circumstances, the present invention can greatly contribute to the realization of a detection device and a detection method that are more accurate, simpler, cheaper, and versatile.

  The inventor of the present application is a feature of an existing accelerator pedal or brake pedal provided in a moving means such as an automobile in order to prevent an erroneous operation by the driver or to make the driver aware of a serious accident. Considering these issues, we investigated how to deal with these issues, and conducted intensive research to achieve this. As a result, the inventor of the present application has found that the adoption of a certain special mechanism and control means greatly contributes to the solution of each of the aforementioned problems. The present invention has been created by such an idea and ingenuity.

  One external detection device of the present invention includes a base body, a cover body, a variable mechanism that varies the relative distance between the base body and the cover body, and a light emitting unit and a cover provided on or above the base body. A light-receiving unit that receives light from the light-emitting unit when the body is not stepped on to the base side, and light from the light-emitting unit by using the fluctuation mechanism when the cover body is stepped on the base side And a control unit. In addition, the control unit of the external detection device is configured such that when a display lamp to be disposed in front of the driver's seat is connected by wire or wirelessly, and the cover body is stepped on the base body side. When the display lamp is turned on or brightened by the light receiving unit that does not sense the light, and the cover body is not stepped on the substrate side, the light receiving unit that senses the light displays the display. The lamp is controlled to be extinguished or dimmed.

  Another external detection device of the present invention includes a base body, a cover body, a variable mechanism for changing the relative distance between the base body and the cover body, and a light emitting unit provided on or above the base body. And a light receiving portion that receives light from the light emitting portion using the variation mechanism when the cover body is stepped on the substrate side, and a light emitting portion when the cover body is not stepped on the substrate side. A shield that shields light from the light and a control unit. In addition, the control unit of the external detection device is configured such that when a display lamp to be disposed in front of the driver's seat is connected by wire or wirelessly, and the cover body is stepped on the base body side. The display lamp is turned on or brightened by the light receiving unit that senses the light, and the display lamp does not sense the light when the cover body is not stepped on the substrate side. Is controlled to be turned off or dimmed.

  According to each of the external detection devices described above, it can be easily attached to an existing accelerator pedal or brake pedal provided in moving means such as an automobile. Therefore, according to this external detection device, it has extremely high versatility that it can be applied to existing automobiles and the like. Further, according to this external detection device, the driver can know his / her stepping motion visually and accurately by the display lamp disposed in front of the driver's seat. In addition, according to this external detection device, whether the light from the above-described light-emitting unit is shielded is whether the above-described display lamp that is visually recognized by the driver is turned on or increased, or turned off or reduced. In other words, it is determined by whether or not the light receiving unit receives the light. The display lamp is turned on or brightened, or turned off or darkened by the shield using a changing mechanism that changes the relative distance between the base and the cover. Therefore, this external detection device does not require a complicated structure or a light receiving element with particularly high sensitivity. Further, according to this external detection device, since there is nothing that directly contacts the light receiving element, the light receiving element is hardly damaged by the contact.

  By the way, in each of the external detection devices described above, when the cover body is stepped on, the above-described display lamp is lit or brightened before the moving means including the pedal starts to accelerate or decelerate by the pedal. Control by the control unit is a preferred embodiment. It is a special note that by performing such control, the indicator lamp is lit or brightened before the moving means actually starts accelerating or decelerating. Deserve.

  Further, the pedal described above is composed of an accelerator pedal and a brake pedal, the external detection device described above is attached to each of the accelerator pedal and the brake pedal, and the external detection device attached to the accelerator pedal. The color of the above-mentioned display lamp corresponding to the above is the same color as the color meaning "advance" or "may proceed" of the road signal in the country or region where the external detection device is used, and the above-mentioned brake pedal The color of the above-mentioned display lamp corresponding to the above-mentioned external detection device attached to the vehicle is similar to the color meaning “stop” of the road signal in the country or region where the external detection device is used. Is another preferred embodiment. In each country, it is more preferable to judge or foresee the state in which the driver is stepping on the pedal and the future danger based on the colors that are familiar in everyday life.

  In addition, the above-described variation mechanism, the above-described light-emitting unit, the above-described light-receiving unit, the above-described control unit, and the above-described shielding body are arranged on a certain substrate (for example, a wiring board) so that these functions can be performed. This is another preferred embodiment. Then, the substrate can be placed at any position on the above-mentioned substrate by, for example, an adhesive or a bolt, so that the manufacturing process can be simplified and the reliability of the detection accuracy by the light receiving unit can be improved. It can be realized.

  Further, according to one detection method of the present invention, when a cover body provided with a changing mechanism that changes the relative distance to the base is stepped on the base, the light from the light emitting unit is always received. When the light receiving unit does not sense the light, the display lamp for disposing in front of the driver's seat is turned on or brightened, and the cover body is separated from the base when the cover body is not depressed. In addition, by canceling the shielding of the light, the light receiving unit senses the light, and the display lamp is turned off or dimmed.

  Further, according to another detection method of the present invention, when a cover body provided with a variation mechanism that varies the relative distance to the base is stepped on the base, the light from the light emitting unit is always shielded. Therefore, the light receiving unit that does not sense the light senses the light, thereby turning on or brightening the display lamp to be disposed in front of the driver's seat, and the cover body is not depressed. Sometimes, the cover body is separated from the base body and shields the above-mentioned light, so that the light receiving unit does not sense the light, thereby turning off or dimming the display lamp.

  According to each of the detection methods described above, it can be easily attached to an existing accelerator pedal or brake pedal provided in moving means such as an automobile. Therefore, according to this detection method, it has extremely high versatility that it can be applied to existing automobiles and the like. Further, according to this detection method, the driver can know his / her stepping motion visually and accurately by the display lamp disposed in front of the driver's seat. According to this detection method, the above-mentioned display lamp that is visually recognized by the driver is turned on or off, or turned off or dimmed, in other words, whether or not the light from the above-described light emitting unit is blocked. For example, it is determined by whether or not the light receiving unit receives the light. Therefore, according to this detection method, a highly sensitive light receiving element or the like is not required.

  By the way, in the above-described detection method, when the cover body is stepped on, it is preferable that the above-described display lamp is lit or brightened before the moving means including the pedal starts to accelerate or decelerate by the pedal. It is. It is a special note that by performing such control, the indicator lamp is lit or brightened before the moving means actually starts accelerating or decelerating. Deserve.

  Further, in the present application, “similar colors” are not only completely the same color but also a concept including three elements represented by color characteristics, that is, hue, lightness, and saturation having similar hues. . For example, if the color of the signal of a certain country is “green”, the same system color such as “yellow-green” or “blue-green” is included. Further, if the color of the signal of a certain country is “red”, the same system color such as “orange” or “pink” is included. Adopting such a similar color to the color of the above-mentioned display lamp has the effect that it is easy to accept sensuously because the driver does not care about the difference from the familiar color in everyday life. Can be played.

  According to one external detection device of the present invention, it can be easily attached to an existing accelerator pedal or brake pedal provided in moving means such as an automobile. Therefore, according to this external detection device, it has extremely high versatility that it can be applied to existing automobiles and the like. Further, according to this external detection device, the driver can know his / her stepping motion visually and accurately by the display lamp disposed in front of the driver's seat. In addition, according to this detection device, the above-described display lamp that is visually recognized by the driver is turned on or off, or turned off or dimmed, in other words, whether or not the light from the light emitting unit is blocked. It is determined by whether or not the light receiving unit receives light. Then, the display lamp is turned on or brightened, or turned off or darkened by the shield using a changing mechanism that changes the relative distance between the base and the cover. Therefore, this external detection device does not require a complicated structure or a light receiving element with particularly high sensitivity. Further, according to this external detection device, since there is nothing that directly contacts the light receiving element, the light receiving element is hardly damaged by the contact.

  Further, according to one detection method of the present invention, it can be easily attached to an existing accelerator pedal or brake pedal provided in a moving means such as an automobile. Therefore, according to this detection method, it has extremely high versatility that it can be applied to existing automobiles and the like. Further, according to this detection method, the driver can know his / her stepping motion visually and accurately by the display lamp disposed in front of the driver's seat. Note that, according to this detection method, whether the light from the light emitting unit is blocked, in other words, whether the light from the light emitting unit is blocked, is turned on or off, or turned off or dimmed. It is determined by whether or not the light receiving unit receives light. Therefore, according to this detection method, a highly sensitive light receiving element or the like is not required.

It is an expanded view of the attachment state of the external detection apparatus for accelerator pedals in the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a side view of the attachment state of the external detection apparatus for accelerator pedals in the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a fragmentary figure of the cross section of the external detection apparatus for accelerator pedals in the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is an expanded view of the external detection apparatus for accelerator pedals in the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is MM sectional drawing of FIG. It is an expanded view of the external detection apparatus for accelerator pedals in the 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is a one part perspective view of the external detection apparatus for accelerator pedals in the 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is an expanded view of the external detection apparatus for the accelerator pedal in the 4th Embodiment of this invention. It is a side view of the attachment state of the external detection apparatus for accelerator pedals in the 4th Embodiment of this invention. It is an expanded sectional view of Q field of Drawing 9. It is an expanded view of the external detection apparatus for brake pedals in the 5th Embodiment of this invention. In one embodiment of the present invention, when the force applied to the pedal gradually increases from zero at a constant speed, (a) the change in the function of the brake pedal, (b), the displacement of the brake pedal It is a graph which shows notionally the relation between quantity and the force concerning (c) brake pedal. It is a perspective view which shows the arrangement | positioning state of the display lamp in the modification of the 6th Embodiment of this invention. It is structure explanatory drawing in the case of connecting between each main body and display lamp of an external detection apparatus in the 7th Embodiment of this invention wirelessly. It is a conceptual diagram which shows the example of control of the emitted light intensity of the display lamp in the 9th Embodiment of this invention. It is a conceptual diagram which shows the example of control of the emitted light intensity of the display lamp in the modification (1) of the 9th Embodiment of this invention. It is a conceptual diagram which shows the example of control of the emitted light intensity of the display lamp in the modification (2) of the 9th Embodiment of this invention. It is a side view of the external detection apparatus for the accelerator pedal in other embodiment of this invention. It is a fragmentary side view of an external detection device for an accelerator pedal in another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a partial sectional view of an external detection device for an accelerator pedal corresponding to FIG. 5 in another embodiment of the present invention.

  Next, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this description, common parts are denoted by common reference symbols throughout the drawings. In the drawings, the elements of the present embodiment are not necessarily shown according to the scale.

<First Embodiment>
1 to 3 are an exploded view, a side view of the attached state, and a partial view of a cross section, respectively, of the externally detecting device 100 of the present embodiment. As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the external detection device 100 of the present embodiment is used by being attached to an accelerator pedal A of an automobile, which is an example of a typical moving means, and is used for external detection for an accelerator pedal. Device.

  In the present embodiment, the external detection device 100 is disposed on the accelerator pedal A by being fitted so as to cover the accelerator pedal A from above using the side wall 11 a of the base body 11. The side wall 11a also serves to prevent an obstacle such as dust from entering between the accelerator pedal A and the external detection device 100. In order to fix the external detection device 100 to the accelerator pedal A with high accuracy, a known adhesive, an adhesive sheet, or the like may be interposed between the accelerator pedal A and the external detection device 100.

  In addition, the external detection device 100 includes a cover body 12 that can be opened and closed using a known pivot hinge or the like that forms an opening / closing axis XX provided at the front portion of the base 11, a light emitting unit 14, and a light emitting device. A light receiving unit 15 that receives light from the unit 14, a control unit 18 that is connected to the light emitting unit 14 and the light receiving unit 15 and connected to the display lamp L 1, and provided to vary the distance between the cover body 12 and the base body 11. And a stopper 17 made of a highly rigid material (for example, metal or plastic with high hardness) for preventing the cover body 12 from approaching the base body 11 too much.

  Although the example of the light emission part 14 of this embodiment is a light emitting diode and the example of the light reception part 15 is a photodiode, the kind of element of the light emission part 14 and the light reception part 15 is not limited to these. Further, the display lamp L1 of the present embodiment shines in blue, blue-green, or green, and is attached to a dashboard (not shown) in front of the driver's seat with, for example, a known adhesive or double-sided tape. In addition, the control unit 18 of the present embodiment includes a signal transmission circuit that controls lighting and extinction of the display lamp L1 or light increase and decrease, and has a built-in power supply.

  As described above, the control unit 18 of the external detection device 100 of the present embodiment is connected to the display lamp L1. Here, in the present embodiment, for example, when the cover body 12 is stepped on by the driver, the cover body 12 approaches the base body 11 against the elasticity of the spring 16. As a result, the plate-like shielding body 13 provided in the cover body 12 moves in the R direction in FIG. 3 (rotates in this embodiment), and shields light from the light emitting unit 14 (Z in FIG. 3). Therefore, the control unit 18 turns on or turns off the display lamp L1 based on the signal that the light receiving unit 15 does not receive the light from the light emitting unit 14, that is, the signal “not receiving light” from the light receiving unit 15. Control to increase the brightness.

  On the other hand, in other words, in other words, when the cover body 12 is not depressed toward the base body 11 or when the depression of the cover body 12 is released, the spring 16 lifts the cover body 12, so that the shield 13 is a light emitting part. Do not block the light from 14. Accordingly, the control unit 18 displays the display lamp L1 based on the fact that the light receiving unit 15 has received the light from the light emitting unit 14, that is, the signal “received light” from the light receiving unit 15 is obtained. Is controlled to be turned off or dimmed.

  In addition, the material and shape of the above-described shielding body 13 are not particularly limited as long as the shielding body 13 has a performance of blocking light from the light emitting unit 14. Moreover, in this embodiment, when the cover body 12 is not stepped on, the example of the elastic body provided so that the cover body 12 and the base | substrate 11 may maintain a fixed distance, in other words, the cover body 12 and the base | substrate 11 Although the spring is employ | adopted as an example of the elastic body provided in order to fluctuate the distance with, the number of springs and the kind of elastic body are not limited. For example, as an alternative to a spring, a structure formed of a material having elasticity such as resin, rubber, or rubber sponge may be employed. Specifically, in order that these structures can receive the light from the light emission part 14 when the cover body 12 is not stepped on to the base | substrate 11 side, in other words, the shielding body 13 If it has the elasticity which supports the cover body 12 so that the light may not be blocked | interrupted, the effect similar to the effect of this embodiment may be show | played.

  By the way, it may be preferable that the display lamp L1 is controlled from a dimmed state to a brightened state rather than being controlled to be turned on from a completely extinguished state. In other words, even when the shield 13 does not block the light from the light emitting unit 14, the display lamp L1 emits light with a constant light amount (more preferably, the minimum light amount that allows each color to be visually recognized or close to it). It may be preferable to maintain the state. This is because the driver can always recognize the presence of the display lamp L1 even if the driver is not stepping on the pedal if the light is dimmed when the shield 13 does not block the light from the light emitting unit 14. . Note that, in the present embodiment, the difference in the amount of light or the difference in color between the dimming state and the brightening state is set to such an extent that the driver can distinguish at least.

  In addition, the base body 11 and the cover body 12 of the present embodiment are each formed using a light weight and sufficient strength material such as resin, fiber reinforced composite material, and metal. Although not shown in the drawings, the upper surface of the cover body 12 is provided with irregularities to provide an anti-slip function, or a rubber or the like having an anti-slip function is laminated on the upper surface of the cover body 12. This is another aspect that can be adopted.

  As a means for attaching the base body 11 to the accelerator pedal A, a binding band that is inexpensive, can be attached to pedals of various sizes, and can be firmly fixed may be used.

  According to the external detection device 100 of the present embodiment, it can be easily attached to an existing pedal (for example, an accelerator pedal) provided in moving means such as an automobile. Therefore, according to the external detection device 100, not only is it provided with extremely high versatility that it can be applied to an existing automobile or the like, but the driver can perform his own stepping-in operation by the display lamp disposed in front of the driver's seat. You can know visually and accurately. Further, according to the external detection device 100, whether the light from the light emitting unit 14 is blocked, in other words, whether or not the display lamp L1 is visually recognized by the driver is turned on or off or turned off or dimmed. For example, it is determined by whether or not the light receiving unit 15 receives the light. The display lamp L1 can be turned on or increased, or turned off or dimmed by the shield 13 that uses a changing mechanism that changes the relative distance between the base 11 and the cover 12. Therefore, the external detection device 100 does not require a complicated structure or a light receiving element having a particularly high sensitivity. Further, according to the external detection device 100, since there is nothing that directly contacts the light receiving element, the light receiving element is hardly damaged by the contact.

  By the way, although the external detection apparatus 100 of this embodiment is used by being attached to the accelerator pedal A, the color and external shape (aspect ratio) emitted from the external detection apparatus 100 differ, but the same structure was provided. It is also a preferable aspect that the thing is attached to the brake pedal.

<Second Embodiment>
In the present embodiment, the shielding body 13 of the external detection device 100 in the first embodiment is changed to the shielding body 23, and the variation mechanism for varying the relative distance between the base body 11 and the cover body 12 is different. Since it is the same as that of the structure of the external detection apparatus 100 of 1st Embodiment except for, the description which overlaps with 1st Embodiment is abbreviate | omitted.

  FIG. 4 is a development view of the external detection device 200 for the accelerator pedal A in the present embodiment. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line MM in FIG.

  In the external detection device 200 of the present embodiment, an accommodating portion 27 in which a part of the shield 23 is accommodated is provided between the light emitting portion 14 and the light receiving portion 15. As shown in FIG. 5, the shield 23 includes a through hole 24 and is supported by springs 26 that are a plurality of elastic bodies. In addition, the accommodating portion 27 can receive light from the light emitting portion 14 at the light receiving portion 15, in other words, a plurality of penetrations corresponding to the light path (Z in FIG. 4) so as not to block the light. A hole 25 is provided. Note that in FIG. 4, which is a perspective view, only the through hole 25 on the light receiving unit 15 side among the plurality of through holes 25 is visible.

  Here, when the driver does not step on the accelerator pedal A, since the shield 23 is supported by the spring 26, the light from the light emitting portion 14 is transmitted through the through hole 25 of the housing portion 27 and the through hole 24 of the shield 23. , And can reach the light receiving unit 15. Therefore, the control unit 18 displays the display lamp based on the fact that the light receiving unit 15 senses the light from the light emitting unit 14, that is, the signal based on the light received from the photodiode as the light receiving unit 15. L1 is controlled to be extinguished or dimmed.

  On the other hand, when the cover body 12 is stepped on, the cover body 12 moves downward (in the direction of the arrow in FIG. 5) together with the shield 23 after contacting the top of the shield 23. Then, when the cover body 12 is stepped on the base 11 side against the elasticity of the spring 26, the position of the through hole 24 provided in the shield 23 moves, so that the light from the light emitting unit 14 is transmitted by the shield 23. Blocked. Therefore, the control unit 18 causes the display lamp L1 to be turned on or brightened based on a signal from the photodiode indicating that the light receiving unit 15 is not receiving light from the light emitting unit 14, that is, not receiving light. To control.

  Even when the external detection device 200 of the present embodiment is employed, the same effects as those of the first embodiment can be achieved. In the first embodiment, since the shielding body 13 is provided in the cover body 12, when manufacturing the external detection device 100, precision of alignment is required, while in the second embodiment. In the embodiment and the third embodiment to be described later, since the shield is formed on the same base as the light emitting unit and the light receiving unit, each external detection device can be easily manufactured.

<Third Embodiment>
In the present embodiment, in the external detection device 200 of the second embodiment, the light emitting unit 14, the housing unit 27 in which a part of the shield 23 is housed, the light receiving unit 15, and the control unit 18 are on the pedestal. The configuration is the same as that of the external detection device 200 of the second embodiment, except that it is arranged and the pedestal is arranged on the base 11. Therefore, the description which overlaps with 1st Embodiment or 2nd Embodiment is abbreviate | omitted.

  FIG. 6 is a development view of the external detection device 300 of the present embodiment. FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a part of the externally detecting device 300 of the present embodiment.

  As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, in the external detection device 300 of the present embodiment, the light emitting unit 14, the housing unit 27 in which a part of the shield 23 is housed, the light receiving unit 15, and the control unit 18 are pedestal. 30. In addition, a pedestal 30 is disposed on the base body 11.

  According to the external detection device 300 that employs the above-described configuration, not only the effect similar to the effect of the first embodiment can be achieved, but also the pedestal 30 as one unit, for example, a removable adhesive at room temperature. It becomes possible to arrange very easily in a free position on the substrate 11 using a tape, a double-sided adhesive rubber, a double-sided adhesive gel, or the like. Furthermore, once the light path from the light emitting unit 14 to the light receiving unit 15 and the movement of the shield 13 are adjusted on the pedestal 30, the pedestal 30 is newly arranged on the base 11 as a unit. Alternatively, it can be rearranged after being placed once. As a result, subsequent adjustments are unnecessary or extremely simple.

  Therefore, arranging the light emitting unit 14 and the shield 23 etc. after making the above adjustment on the pedestal 30 as in the case of the external detection device 300 makes it difficult to attach the external detection device 300 to the pedal and cost. This leads to a significant reduction.

  By the way, although the external detection apparatus 300 of this embodiment is arrange | positioned on the base | substrate 11, this embodiment is not limited to such an aspect. For example, the pedestal 30 is not on the base 11, but a pedal (for example, the accelerator pedal A) is used as a base, and it is another aspect that can be employed. Even if it is such an aspect, if the cover body 12 is attached to the front part of the existing pedal using a pivot hinge etc. so that opening and closing is possible, the effect similar to the effect of 1st Embodiment will be show | played. obtain. Such an aspect is also a modification of the third embodiment.

<Fourth Embodiment>
In this embodiment, the base 11 includes a hook support 43 and a hook 44, and the cover 12 includes a hook support plate 41 and a hook 42 compared to the external detection device 300 of the third embodiment. Except for the points provided, the configuration is the same as that of the external detection device 300 of the third embodiment. Therefore, the description which overlaps with 1st thru | or 3rd embodiment is abbreviate | omitted.

  FIG. 8 is a development view of the external detection device 400 in the present embodiment. FIG. 9 is a side view of the external detection device 400 in the attached state according to the present embodiment. In addition, FIG. 10 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the Q region of FIG.

  As shown in FIGS. 8 to 10, the external detection device 400 of the present embodiment is devised so that the cover body 12 is not easily separated from the base body 11. Specifically, when the curved surface of the hook portion 42 included in the cover body 12 is once pushed downward along the curved surface of the hook portion 44 included in the base body 11, the flat surface of the hook portion 42 of the cover body 12 is Since it engages with the flat surface of the hook portion 44, the cover body 12 is not easily opened. If the rigidity of the cover body 12 or the hook support plate 41 is not particularly high, a predetermined external force is applied to the vicinity of the lower end portion of the hook support plate 41 to release the above-described engagement state. The cover body 12 can be opened.

  As described above, the external detection device 400 of the present embodiment is devised so that the cover body 12 is not easily separated from the base body 11 when the cover body 12 and the base body 11 are engaged. Therefore, for example, the unexpected opening of the cover body 12 from the base body 11 due to shaking or vibration of the moving means due to unevenness of the ground during driving can be prevented with high accuracy.

  By the way, the external detection devices 100, 200, 300, and 400 of this embodiment are used by being attached to the accelerator pedal A. However, the external detection devices 100, 200, 300, and 400 emit light and colors ( It is also a preferable aspect to attach a brake pedal B having a similar configuration with a different aspect ratio).

<Fifth Embodiment>
As a specific example, FIG. 11 is a development view of the external detection device 500 for a brake pedal in the present embodiment.

  Since the external detection device 500 of the present embodiment basically has the same configuration as the configuration of the external detection device 400, the description of the structure and the effect overlapping with the external detection device 400 is omitted. obtain.

  The external detection device 500 is used by being attached to a brake pedal B having a horizontally long shape in an automobile as a typical moving means. At this time, as shown in FIG. 11, in accordance with the shape of the brake pedal B, the base 11 and the cover body 12 are formed so as to have a horizontally long shape. The arrangement of the light emitting unit 14, the light receiving unit 15, the shield 23, and the like on the pedestal 30 is the same as that in the fourth embodiment. Accordingly, the external detection device 500 can be easily attached to the brake pedal B in the same manner as the case where the external detection device 400 is attached to the accelerator pedal A.

  Here, the external detection device 500 uses a lamp that emits red, pink, or orange light as the display lamp L2 for the brake pedal B connected to the control unit 18. Accordingly, when the cover body 12 of the external detection device 500 is not stepped on by the driver, the control unit 18 “receives light” from the light receiving unit 15 that receives light from the light emitting unit 14 (Z in FIG. 11). The display lamp L2 is controlled to be extinguished or dimmed based on the signal “ On the other hand, for example, when the cover body 12 is stepped on by the driver, the shielding body 23 provided in the housing portion 27 shields light from the light emitting portion 14. Therefore, the control unit 18 turns on or increases the brightness of the display lamp L2 based on a signal that the light receiving unit 15 does not receive light from the light emitting unit 14, that is, “not receiving light” from the photodiode. To control.

<Sixth Embodiment>
Preferably, the external detection device 100, 200, 300, 400 for the accelerator pedal of the present embodiment (hereinafter collectively referred to as “external detection device 100” unless otherwise specified) and a brake pedal. An external detection device for a brake pedal represented by an external external detection device 500 (hereinafter collectively referred to as “external detection device 500”) is employed at the same time. For example, a display lamp L1 indicating the depression of the accelerator pedal A may be disposed on the right side for the driver, and a display lamp L2 indicating the depression of the brake pedal B may be disposed on the left side thereof. More specifically, the display lamp L1 and the display lamp L2 can be arranged as a pair on a dashboard in front of the driver's seat by pasting or the like.

  As described above, by arranging the display lamp L1 and the display lamp L2 as a pair, the driver can visually recognize the display lamp L1 and the display lamp L2 at all times during driving. If it does so, it will be able to recognize unconsciously that the driver who usually drives a car has brake pedal B on the left side of accelerator pedal A. If the driver accidentally steps on the brake pedal B instead of the accelerator pedal A, the display lamp L1 is not lit or brightened. In that case, the display lamp L2 shown in FIG. 11 indicating that the brake pedal B is depressed is turned on or brightened. Therefore, since the driver can visually recognize that he / she has made a mistake in the step, the driver can immediately change the pedal, which is a social problem, for example. It can greatly contribute to the realization of traffic accident prevention.

  Therefore, by arranging the display lamp L1 and the display lamp L2 as a pair, for example, in the case of a habit (such as a child jumping out on the road), the possibility of making a mistake in stepping on the left and right pedals is reduced. Is done. Further, even if the accelerator pedal A and the brake pedal B are mistakenly pressed at the beginning, the driver can immediately recognize the display lamp L1 and the display lamp L2, and thus can immediately switch to the correct pedal.

  For example, a driver who drives while enjoying music in a car may be in a situation where hearing tends to have priority over vision. However, even in such a case, the display lamp L1 included in the external detection device 100 of the present embodiment and the display lamp L2 included in the external detection device 500 are turned on or brightened, or turned off or dimmed. The positive visual effect on the driver leads to a driver's danger prediction with higher accuracy.

  By the way, in general, the accelerator pedal A or the brake pedal B provided in the moving means typified by an automobile does not operate by itself due to vibrations of the vehicle body while the automobile is running, even when the accelerator pedal A is not depressed. In addition, there is a case where a threshold value is set such that the pedal function does not work unless a certain load is applied. Further, the brake pedal B has an area of “play” that does not immediately lead to a decrease in speed even if the pedal is depressed to some extent (due to the displacement of the pedal due to the depression).

More specifically, FIGS. 12A to 12C show the passage of time and the change in the function of the brake pedal when the force applied to the pedal gradually increases from zero at a constant speed. (B), the displacement amount of a brake pedal, and (c) The graph which shows notionally the relationship with the force concerning a brake pedal. As shown in FIGS. 12A to 12C, during time t _{0 to} t ₁ , the pedal is displaced until a certain force (threshold value f ₁ ) is applied so that the brake pedal does not move due to vibration of the vehicle body or the like. There is a case where a structure that is not allowed is adopted. In addition, during time t _{1 to} t _2, there may be provided a region called “play” region where the brake does not function unless the pedal exceeds a certain displacement (ε ₁ ).

As described above, in an automobile that is a typical moving means, there may be an “area up to the threshold value”. However, a preferable example of the detection device 500 of the present embodiment is that the depression of the pedal reaches the threshold value. The display lamp L2 can be turned on or brightened within the range up to and / or the play area. The force applied to the pedal by the external detection device 100 or the external detection device 500 as an example is about 1.27 N (about 130 gf). In the passenger car with a threshold _{f 1} described above, it was confirmed that about 6.37N (about 650gf) above. Incidentally, FIGS. 12A to 12C show typical brake pedal graphs. However, even in the case of an accelerator pedal, there is a “region to reach a threshold value”.

  Based on the above, in the external detection devices 100 and 500 according to the present embodiment, from the viewpoint of alerting the driver as quickly as possible, that is, from the viewpoint of realizing prompt risk prediction or risk prevention, It is a preferable aspect that the components of the external detection devices 100 and 500 are arranged or configured so as to promptly notify the driver that the depression has been performed.

  Specifically, for example, when the cover body 12 is stepped on the base body 11 side, before the moving means including the accelerator pedal A and the brake pedal B starts to accelerate or decelerate by the accelerator pedal A or the brake pedal B, It is a more preferable aspect that the display lamp L1 or the display lamp L2 is controlled to be turned on or brightened below the above threshold value. By providing the control unit 18 that performs such control, the display lamp is lit or brightened before the moving means actually starts to accelerate or decelerate, so that the driver can accurately know his / her movement in advance. it can.

  For example, when the accelerator pedal A or the brake pedal B (both of which are directly the cover body 12) is stepped lightly so that only the external detection devices 100 and 500 operate with a load equal to or less than the above-described threshold, acceleration or deceleration is performed. Thus, the driver can visually recognize the change in the light emission intensity of the display lamp L1 or the display lamp L2. As a result, the driver can immediately visually recognize a mistake in the stepping, and thus can quickly change the pedal. Therefore, when the cover body 12 is stepped on the base 11 side against the elasticity of the spring 16 or the spring 26, before the moving means including the accelerator pedal A and the brake pedal B starts to accelerate or decelerate by the pedal. Through the display lamp L1 or the display lamp L2, the driver visually knows the detection result of whether or not the accelerator pedal A or the brake pedal B has been depressed or the pedal that is about to be depressed. As a result, the external detection devices 100 and 500 can greatly contribute to the prevention or reduction of an accident caused by a mistake in treading a vehicle.

  By the way, when the display lamp L1 of the external detection device 100 for an accelerator pedal according to the present embodiment is used in Japan, it is preferable to “advance” or “advance” a road signal in Japan. It emits blue, blue-green, or green, which is a color similar to the color meaning. In addition, the display lamp L2 of the external detection device 500 for a brake pedal according to the present embodiment is preferably similar to a color meaning “stop” of a road signal in Japan when used in Japan. The color red, pink or orange is emitted. Thus, it is preferable that the colors of the display lamp L1 and the display lamp L2 are selected in accordance with the color of the road signal determined by each country or each region. This is to make it easier for the driver to judge or foresee a state in which the driver is stepping on the accelerator pedal or the brake pedal, or a future danger, based on colors that are familiar to him in everyday life. By adopting such a color, the “familiarity” and “intuition” acquired by the driver gaining experience in everyday life can be utilized more effectively.

  From the above viewpoint, when the external detection device 100 or the external detection device 500 is used in a country other than Japan, the display lamp L1 is a signal of a road in the country or region where the external detection device 100 is used. A color similar to the color meaning “advance” or “may proceed” is preferred. Similarly, it is preferable that the color of the display lamp L2 is similar to the color meaning “stop” of the road signal in the country or region where the external detection device 500 is used.

<Modification of Sixth Embodiment>
In this embodiment, unlike the display lamp L1 and the display lamp L2 in the sixth embodiment, a total of four display lamps L1, L1 ′, L2, L2 ′ are employed. In addition, since it is the same as each structure of the external detection apparatus 100,500 of each above-mentioned embodiment except the structure of display lamp L1, L1 ', L2, L2' and a dashboard periphery, The overlapping description and illustration are omitted. Further, for convenience of explanation, the names of the external detection devices in the present embodiment will also be described using the same names as the external detection devices 100, 200, 300, 400, 500 of the above-described embodiments.

  FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing an arrangement state of the four display lamps L1, L1 ', L2, and L2' in the present embodiment.

  The external detection device 100 for the accelerator pedal A of the present embodiment includes, for example, a lamp (L1 ′) that is continuously lit with weak light during driving at night or when the surrounding environment is relatively dark, A lamp (L1) that is lit only when the accelerator pedal A is depressed. Further, the external detection device 500 for the brake pedal B of the present embodiment includes a lamp (L2 ′) that is continuously lit with weak light during driving at night or when the surrounding environment is relatively dark, A lamp (L2) that is lit only when the brake pedal B is depressed.

  Here, in the external detection devices 100 and 500 of the present embodiment, the display lamps L1 and L1 ′ of the external detection device 100 are placed on the right side toward the dashboard, and the display lamps L2 and L2 ′ of the external detection device 500 are displayed. On the dashboard so that it is on the left side. At this time, for example, as shown in FIG. 13, the four display lamps L 1, L 1 ′, L 2, and L 2 ′ are arranged on the dashboard using, for example, a pasting sheet 51.

  In the present embodiment, the display lamps L1 and L1 'are typically lamps that emit blue, blue-green, or green light. The display lamps L2 and L2 'are typically lamps that emit red, pink, or orange light. In addition, lamps (L1 ′, L2 ′) that are continuously lit with weak light during driving at night or when the surrounding environment is relatively dark, and lamps (L1, L2) that are lit only when each pedal is depressed. L2) is electrically controlled by the external detection devices 100 and 500. In addition, the lamps (L1 ′, L2 ′) that are continuously lit with low light during driving at night or when the surrounding environment is relatively dark have a constant light intensity when the sensing means does not sense them. The light emission state is maintained at (more preferably, the minimum light amount at which each color can be visually recognized).

  As described above, the display lamp L1 of the external detection device 100 and the display lamp L2 of the external detection device 500 of the present embodiment are turned on when the driver depresses the cover body 12. Further, when the cover body 12 is not depressed or when the depression is released, the display lamps L1 and L2 are turned off. On the other hand, the external detection devices 100 and 500 of the present embodiment also include lamps (L1 ′, L2 ′) that are continuously lit with weak light at night or when the surrounding environment is relatively dark. .

  Also in this embodiment, the same effect as that of the sixth embodiment can be obtained. That is, for example, even when the sensing means is not sensing at night or when the surrounding environment is relatively dark, the driver maintains at least the light emission state with the above-mentioned constant light amount. The presence of the display lamps L1 ′ and L2 ′ can be recognized. As a result, the driver can recognize the presence of the indicator lamp even when the pedal is not depressed. Thus, the driver will always see a blue lamp (for example) on the right side and a red lamp (for example) on the left side. In the present embodiment, the difference in light quantity or color between the lamps (L1 ′, L2 ′) that are continuously lit with weak light and the lamps (L1, L2) that are lit only when each pedal is depressed. The difference is set so that at least the driver can distinguish.

  In addition, in the present embodiment, the two display lamps L1 and L1 'of the external detection device 100 for the accelerator pedal A are covered with a hood 52 so that the driver can easily see. Similarly, the two display lamps L <b> 2 and L <b> 2 ′ of the external detection device 500 for the brake pedal B are covered with a hood 53. Furthermore, in order to further improve the visibility, in this embodiment, translucent sheets 54 and 55 for diffusing light from each display lamp are provided.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the sticking sheet 51 can be adjusted so that the four display lamps L1, L1 ′, L2, and L2 ′ can be moved to a position where the driver's view is not obstructed by, for example, the steering wheel of the automobile. The length adjusting unit 56 is provided. With this sticking sheet 51, the sticking work of the four display lamps L1, L1 ', L2, L2' on the dashboard in front of the driver's seat can be performed easily and appropriately.

  In the present embodiment, the adhesive sheet 51 is used for the arrangement of the four display lamps L1, L1 ′, L2, and L2 ′. However, in this embodiment, the adhesive sheet 51 is not used. Is also included. For example, as long as the display lamps L1 and L1 ′ and the display lamps L2 and L2 ′ are arranged as a pair, the display lamps L1 and L1 ′ are directly and directly pasted on the dashboard without being provided on the pasting sheet 51. May be.

<Seventh Embodiment>
In each of the embodiments described above, an example in which the main bodies of the external detection devices 100 and 500 and the display lamps L1 and L2 are connected by wire is shown. However, the main bodies and display lamps of the external detection devices 100 and 500 are shown. Another suitable aspect is that L1 and L2 are connected wirelessly.

  FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram of a configuration when the main bodies of the external detection devices 100 and 500 and the display lamps L1 and L2 are wirelessly connected in the present embodiment. In addition, the description regarding the structure similar to the external detection apparatuses 100 and 500 of each above-mentioned embodiment is abbreviate | omitted.

  In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 14, the main bodies of the external detection devices 100 and 500 include a control unit 18 (control circuit), and receivers that include signals from the control unit 18 in the display lamps L <b> 1 and L <b> 2. It has a transmitter that transmits it by radio waves. Further, the display lamps L1 and L2 of this embodiment include a control unit (control circuit) and the above-described receiver in addition to the power supply for the display lamps L1 and L2. Therefore, in the present embodiment, since the main body of the external detection devices 100 and 500 and the display lamps L1 and L2 are wirelessly connected, the mounting operation of the external detection devices 100 and 500 in the vehicle is dramatically facilitated. At the same time, the interior of the car after the installation becomes clean and looks better.

  In the example of the present embodiment, the control unit 18 of the external detection devices 100 and 500 includes the cover body 12 when the cover body 12 is stepped on the base body 11 as in the above-described embodiments. The plate-like shields 13 and 23 shield the light from the light emitting unit 14. Then, the external detection devices 100 and 500 are connected via the transmitter and the receiver so that the display lamps L1 and L2 are turned on or brightened based on the fact that the light receiving unit 15 does not receive the light from the light emitting unit 14. Control. Further, when the cover body 12 is not depressed toward the base body 11 or when the depression of the cover body 12 is released, the shields 13 and 23 do not block the light from the light emitting unit 14. Then, the external detection devices 100 and 500 transmit and receive the display lamps L1 and L2 so that the display lamps L1 and L2 are turned off or dimmed based on the signal “receiving light” from the photodiode as the light receiving unit 15. Control through the machine.

  Further, in another example of the present embodiment, the control unit 18 is continuously lit with weak light during the operation with respect to the display lamps L1 and L2, and is brightened only when each pedal is depressed. It is also a preferable aspect to perform control via a transmitter and a receiver.

  Further, similarly to the modification of each of the above-described embodiments, it is another preferable aspect that a total of four display lamps L1, L1 ', L2, and L2' are employed. In such a case, not only a case where a power source and a receiver are provided for each of the display lamps L1, L1 ′, L2, and L2 ′ using a known wireless transmission means, but one power source and one receiver are provided. You may be responsible for distribution of the signal sent from control part 18.

  Also in this embodiment, the same effect as the effect of each above-mentioned embodiment can be show | played. In addition, according to the present embodiment, since wireless signal transmission is realized, the external detection devices 100 and 500 have both ease of installation and ease of handling (including maintenance) at the same time. Become.

<Eighth Embodiment>
In addition, adopting a later-described control method different from the “display lamp” control method in each of the above-described embodiments can achieve an effect of further raising the driver's attention. Therefore, adopting the control method described later can further contribute to traffic accident prevention.

  Specifically, for the driver, the visibility in the vicinity of the display lamp disposed in front of the driver's seat can vary greatly depending on the difference between day and night and the surrounding environment. Therefore, for example, the display lamps L1, L1 ′, L2, and L2 ′ of the modified example of the sixth embodiment are bright in the environment around the place where the display lamps L1, L1 ′, L2, and L2 ′ are arranged. It is also possible to adopt an aspect including a sensor for detecting the above. When such a configuration is adopted, based on the brightness detected by the sensor, when the control unit 18 is relatively dark at night or in the surrounding environment, the presence of the control unit 18 can be known even if the pedal is not depressed. Thus, for example, it can control so that L1 'and L2' light. Moreover, in the aspect provided with the sensor which detects the brightness of the environment around the place where the display lamps L1 and L2 of the sixth embodiment are disposed, the control is performed based on the brightness detected by the sensor. When the unit 18 is relatively dark at night or in the surrounding environment, even if the pedal is not depressed, the display lamps L1 and L2 are lit with brightness (under low light conditions) that can be visually recognized by the driver. Can be controlled. Each control as described above contributes to the risk prediction of the driver with higher accuracy and also saves energy.

<Ninth Embodiment>
FIG. 15 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example of control with emission intensity of the display lamp in the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 15, as another aspect related to the control of the emission intensity, the control unit 18 is constant from when the driver touches or steps on the cover body 12 (T ₀ ). The light emission intensity of the display lamps L1 and L2 is controlled to be a higher value (I ₂ ) only for a time (for example, 0.5 seconds to 1.5 seconds, T _{0 to} T ₁ ). It is also a preferable aspect that control is performed so as to return to the normal light emission intensity (I ₁ ). In other words, the light emission intensity of the display lamps L1 and L2 is set higher than the normal light emission intensity for a certain period of time after the driver touches the cover body 12 or steps on the cover body 12. Can be controlled.

In addition, using the sensor described in the eighth embodiment is another preferable aspect because it can further enhance the driver's alerting. In that case, the light emission intensity of the display lamps L1 and L2 when the sensing means is not sensing is set to substantially zero (I _{0 in} FIG. 15A) during the daytime or the surrounding environment is relatively bright, Alternatively, the display lamps L1 and L2 are turned off so that the driver can visually recognize the light emission intensity of the display lamps L1 and L2 when the sensing means is not sensing at night or when the surrounding environment is relatively dark. The state (I _{0 in} FIG. 15B) can be set.

<Modification (1) of Ninth Embodiment>
FIG. 16 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of control with emission intensity of the display lamp in the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 16, yet another embodiment for control of the light emitting intensity, when the depression of the contact or the cover member 12 to cover member 12 by the driver is performed (T ₀₎ from a predetermined time (e.g., The display lamps L1 and L2 are controlled to blink at a predetermined light emission intensity (I ₁ ) for 0.5 seconds to 1.5 seconds, T _{0 to} T ₁ ), and continuous light emission occurs after the time elapses. Such a control is also a preferable aspect. In other words, it is possible to control the display lamps L1 and L2 to blink only for the predetermined time from when the driver touches the cover body 12 or steps on the cover body 12.

In addition, using the sensor described in the eighth embodiment is another preferable aspect because it can further enhance the driver's alerting. In that case, the light emission intensity of the display lamps L1 and L2 when the sensing means is not sensing is set to substantially zero (I _{0 in} FIG. 16A) during the daytime or the surrounding environment is relatively bright, Alternatively, the display lamps L1 and L2 are turned off so that the driver can visually recognize the light emission intensity of the display lamps L1 and L2 when the sensing means is not sensing at night or when the surrounding environment is relatively dark. The state (I _{0 in} FIG. 16B) can be set.

<Modification (2) of Ninth Embodiment>
Moreover, it is also possible to employ a combination of the ninth embodiment and its modification (1). FIG. 17 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of control with emission intensity of the display lamp in the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 17, the light emission intensity of the display lamps L1 and L2 is made to emit light with a light emission intensity (I ₂ ) stronger than the normal light emission intensity (I ₁ ) for the predetermined time (T _{0 to} T ₁ ). It is another preferable aspect to use a combination of the control and the control of blinking the display lamps L1 and L2 only during the time (T _{0 to} T ₁ ). By adopting this configuration, the above-described effects can be combined to produce an effect of further increasing the driver's alert.

In addition, using the sensor described in the eighth embodiment is another preferable aspect because it can further enhance the driver's alerting. In that case, the light emission intensity of the display lamps L1 and L2 when the sensing means is not sensing is set to substantially zero (I _{0 in} FIG. 17A) during the daytime or the surrounding environment is relatively bright, Alternatively, the display lamps L1 and L2 are turned off so that the driver can visually recognize the light emission intensity of the display lamps L1 and L2 when the sensing means is not sensing at night or when the surrounding environment is relatively dark. The state (I _{0 in} FIG. 17B) can be set.

  In any of the above-described aspects relating to the control of the display lamp, it leads to a positive visual effect on the driver, which can contribute to a driver's risk prediction with higher accuracy.

<Other embodiment 1>
By the way, in the above-mentioned seventh embodiment, radio waves are shown as an example of wireless signal transmission means, but the transmission means are not limited to radio waves. For example, transmission / reception of signals by electromagnetic waves including infrared rays can also be realized by securing a path between the main body of the external detection device 100, 500 and the display lamps L1, L2 so that the electromagnetic waves are not blocked. In addition to infrared signal transmission means, known wireless transmission means including ultrasonic signal transmission means may be employed.

  Further, even if a signal is transmitted by wire, it is not limited to an example in which electrical wiring is performed as in the first embodiment. For example, known wired optical communication means can also be applied to the above-described embodiments or modifications thereof. Also in this embodiment, the same effects as those of the above-described embodiments can be achieved. In addition, when wireless signal transmission is employed, the external detection devices 100 and 500 have both ease of installation and ease of handling (including maintenance) at the same time.

<Other embodiment 2>
In each of the above-described embodiments, a vibration switch is incorporated in the control unit 18 (control circuit) of the main body of the external detection device 100, 500 and / or the control unit (control circuit) of the display lamps L1, L2. For example, when the driver opens the door of the automobile, for example, the vibration switch is automatically controlled so that the power supply of the external detection devices 100 and 500 is turned on. Another preferable aspect is that the vibration switch is controlled to automatically turn off the power supply of the external detection devices 100 and 500 when no vibration continues for a certain period of time. It is.

<Other embodiment 3>
Furthermore, in each of the above-described embodiments, an automobile is described as a representative example of the moving means. However, this automobile includes an accelerator pedal and a brake pedal as well as a general private vehicle and a commercial vehicle. Special work vehicles used for agricultural work, civil engineering work, or construction work are included. In the present application, the moving means includes any object as long as it is a moving body including an accelerator pedal and a brake pedal. Furthermore, the external detection device of the present application can be applied not only to the moving means but also to, for example, a driving simulation device including an accelerator pedal and a brake pedal for training and not moving.

<Other embodiment 4>
In addition, the “display lamp” in each of the above-described embodiments includes a known light-emitting element such as an LED or a light-emitting device as a preferred embodiment.

<Other embodiment 5>
Furthermore, in the above-described sixth embodiment and the like, the display lamp L1 (or L1 and L1 ′) for the accelerator pedal A and the display lamp L2 (or L2 and L2 ′) for the brake pedal B are provided. This is another aspect in which a configuration in which only the external detection device 100, 200, 300, 400 for the accelerator pedal is provided can also be adopted. Even in such a configuration, when the accelerator pedal is stepped on by mistake, the display lamp L1 (or L1 and L1 ′) can be turned on or brightened, so that the driver is alerted. Can be inspired. For example, in the case of an automobile, if the accelerator pedal A is accidentally depressed where the brake pedal B should be depressed, a greater accident is likely to occur. Therefore, if only one external detection device is selected, the external detection devices 100, 200, 300, and 400 for the accelerator pedal are employed. On the other hand, in some cases, only an external detection device for a brake pedal may be employed.

<Other embodiment 6>
In each of the above embodiments, for example, as shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the accelerator pedal A is provided with a vertically long pedal for the driver, and as shown in FIG. 11, the brake pedal B is horizontally long for the driver. Shaped pedals are provided. However, the shape of each pedal in the above-described embodiments is not limited thereto. For example, both the accelerator pedal A and the brake pedal B may be vertically long, or both the accelerator pedal A and the brake pedal B may be horizontally long. Accordingly, the external detection devices 100, 200, 300, 400, and 500 of the above-described embodiments can change the external shape according to the shape of the pedal to be attached.

<Other embodiment 7>
Further, regarding the change in the emission intensity shown in FIGS. 15 to 17, when the emission intensity is changed from a high emission intensity state (I ₂ ) to a state after a certain period of time (I ₁ ), the emission intensity changes over time. In addition, it is another preferable aspect to control so as to decrease gradually. Such a gradual change can reduce the burden on the driver's eyes. In addition, it is more preferable that the gradual decrease period is approximately the same as the time from T _{0 to} T ₁ .

  In the first and second embodiments described above, the base body 11 is provided separately from each pedal, and the base body 11 includes the light emitting unit 14, the light receiving unit 15, the control unit 18, and the like. Each embodiment is not limited to such an aspect. For example, an accelerator pedal itself and / or a brake pedal itself of an existing automobile is used as the base 11, and the base (each pedal) includes a light emitting unit 14, a light receiving unit 15, a control unit 18, and the like. It is another preferred aspect that the cover body 12 is attached to the pedal itself as the base body so as to be freely opened and closed as in the modification of the embodiment.

  As one specific example, in the externally detecting device 600 shown in FIG. 18, the light-emitting part 14, the light-receiving part 15, and the accommodating part 27 that accommodates a part of the shield 23 are provided on the accelerator pedal A as a base. It is provided at the front.

  Here, the inside of the accommodating part 27 has the same structure as the inside of the accommodating part 27 of 2nd Embodiment shown in FIG. Further, in the external detection device 600, the cover body 12 is attached to the pedal itself so as to be freely opened and closed by the rotation shaft P, and the side plate 60 of the cover body 12 is made of transparent acrylic so that it can be easily seen from the outside. Is formed. Further, a stopper 17 for preventing the cover body 12 from being stepped on excessively is provided on the accelerator pedal A. Further, the power source of the light emitting unit 14 and the light receiving unit 15 may be provided in the control unit 18 or, even if the external detection device 600 itself is not provided, using the wiring along the accelerator pedal A, It can be supplied from the body of the moving means (e.g. automobile).

  Even with the external detection device 600 having such a configuration, the same effects as those of the above-described embodiments can be achieved. In view of strength, the side plate 60 is preferably made of a metal having corrosion resistance. Further, in the externally detecting device 600, the cover body 12 is attached to the pedal itself so as to be freely opened and closed by the rotation shaft P, and a spring serving as a changing mechanism for changing the relative distance between the cover body 12 and the pedal as the base body. (Inside the accommodating portion 27) is located in the vicinity of the rear side of the rotation shaft P. Therefore, it is preferable that the spring that bears the fluctuation mechanism is positioned in the vicinity of the rear side of the rotating shaft P because the lever principle can be used particularly when the rear part of the pedal is depressed. With such an arrangement, even if the driver's stepping force is very small, it can be detected with high accuracy.

<Other embodiment 8>
In each of the first and second embodiments described above, when the cover body 12 is stepped on, the shielding body 13 included in the cover body 12 or the shielding body 23 in the housing portion 27 emits light from the light emitting portion 14. By blocking, the display lamp L1 is controlled to be turned on or brightened based on the signal from the light receiving unit 15 that the light from the light emitting unit 14 is not received. The aspect which reverses the role of is another preferable aspect. A specific example is the following external detection device 700 or the like. In the present embodiment, the shield 13 of the first embodiment is replaced with a shield 713, or the shield 23 of the second embodiment is replaced with a shield 823. Since it is the same as each structure of the external detection apparatus 100 of 1 embodiment, or the external detection apparatus 200 of 2nd Embodiment, the description which overlaps with 1st and 2nd embodiment is abbreviate | omitted.

  FIG. 19 is a partial side view of an external detection device 700 for an accelerator pedal in an embodiment. FIG. 20 is a part of an external detection device for an accelerator pedal, and corresponds to FIG. 5 which is a cross-sectional view taken along line MM in FIG.

<Other embodiment 8-1>
As shown in FIG. 19, the shield 713 of the external detection device 700 has a through hole 713a. Further, unlike the shielding body 13 of the first embodiment, the shielding body 713 is separated from the light emitting unit 14 when the cover body 12 is not stepped on, in other words, when no load is applied to the cover body 12. The projection length from the inner surface of the cover body 12 is sufficient to shield the light. Therefore, in the external detection device 700, when the cover body 12 is not stepped on the base body 11 side, the control unit 18 causes the display lamp L1 (not shown) to be detected by the light receiving unit 15 that does not sense the light from the light emitting unit 14. Control to turn off or dimm.

  On the other hand, when the cover body 12 is stepped on against the spring 16 which is a changing mechanism that changes the relative distance between the base body 11 and the cover body 12, the shielding body 713 moves downward. Then, the light receiving unit 15 receives light from the light emitting unit 14 through the through hole 713a of the shield 713. Therefore, in the external detection device 700, when the cover body 12 is stepped on the base body 11 side, the control unit 18 causes the display lamp L1 to be detected by the light receiving unit 15 that senses that the light from the light emitting unit 14 has been received. Control to turn on or brighten.

  Even with the external detection device 700 having such a configuration, the same effects as those of the first embodiment described above can be achieved.

<Other embodiment 8-2>
In another aspect, the same external detection device as the configuration of the external detection device 200 may be employed except that the shield 23 of the external detection device 200 is changed to the shield 823. In addition, the description which overlaps with 1st and 2nd embodiment is abbreviate | omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 20, in this aspect, the position of the through hole 824 provided in the shield 823 is moved upward from the shield 23 of the second embodiment. As a result, similarly to the shielding body 713 of the external detection device 700, when the cover body 12 is not stepped on, in other words, when no load is applied to the cover body 12, light from the light emitting unit 14 is shielded. It is shielded by the body 823. Therefore, also in this aspect, when the cover body 12 is not stepped on the base body 11 side, the control unit 18 turns off or reduces the display lamp L1 (not shown) by the light receiving unit 15 that does not sense the light from the light emitting unit 14. Control to light up.

  On the other hand, when the cover body 12 is stepped on against the spring 26 which is a changing mechanism that changes the relative distance between the base body 11 and the cover body 12, the shielding body 823 moves downward. Then, the light receiving unit 15 receives light from the light emitting unit 14 due to the presence of the through hole 824 of the shield 823. Therefore, when the cover body 12 is stepped on the base body 11 side, the control unit 18 controls the display lamp L1 to be turned on or brightened by the light receiving unit 15 that senses that the light from the light emitting unit 14 has been received. .

  In addition, also in the above-described external detection device 700 or the external detection device shown in FIG. 20, a pedal is provided when the cover body 12 is stepped on the base body 11 side as in the above-described embodiments. It is a preferable aspect that the control unit 18 controls the display lamp to be lit or brightened before the moving means starts to accelerate or decelerate by the pedal.

  By the way, in each of the above-described embodiments, for example, even when the display lamp L1 and the display lamp L2 are not lit, the color of the display lamp L1 itself (for example, blue) or the color of the display lamp L2 itself (for example, , Red) is more preferably in a state that can be visually recognized by the driver (a state in which colors can be distinguished).

  The disclosure of each of the above-described embodiments is described for explaining the embodiments, and is not described for limiting the present invention. In addition, modifications within the scope of the present invention including other combinations of the embodiments are also included in the claims.

A (Accelerator) pedal 11 Base body 11a, 60 Side wall 12 Cover body 13 Shield body 14 Light emitting section 15 Light receiving section 16 Spring 17 Stopper 18 Control section 23, 713, 823 Shield body 24, 25, 713a, 824 Through hole 26 Spring 27 Housing Part 30 Base 41 Hook part support plate 42, 44 Hook part 43 Hook part support body 51 Sheet 52, 53 Hood 54, 55 Translucent sheet 56 Adjustment part 100, 200, 300, 400, 600, 700 External attachment for accelerator pedal Detector 500 External detector for brake pedal L1, L1 ', L2, L2' Indicator lamp

Claims (14)

A substrate;
A cover body;
A variation mechanism for varying the relative distance between the base body and the cover body;
A light receiving portion that is provided on or above the substrate, and that receives light from the light emitting portion when the light emitting portion and the cover body are not stepped on the substrate side; and
A shielding body that shields light from the light emitting unit using the variation mechanism when the cover body is stepped on the base side;
When the display lamp to be disposed in front of the driver's seat is connected by wire or wirelessly and the cover body is stepped on the base body side, the display lamp is turned on by the light receiving unit that does not sense the light Or a control unit that controls the display lamp to be turned off or dimmed by the light receiving unit that senses the light when the cover body is not stepped on to the base side.
External detection device. A substrate;
A cover body;
A variation mechanism for varying the relative distance between the base body and the cover body;
A light receiving unit provided on or above the substrate, and receiving light from the light emitting unit using the variation mechanism when the light emitting unit and the cover body are stepped on the substrate side;
A shielding body that shields light from the light emitting portion when the cover body is not stepped on to the base side;
When the display lamp to be disposed in front of the driver's seat is connected by wire or wirelessly, and the cover body is stepped on the base side, the display lamp is lit by the light receiving unit that senses the light. Or a control unit that controls the display lamp to be turned off or dimmed by the light receiving unit that does not sense the light when the cover body is not stepped on to the base side.
External detection device. When the cover body is stepped on, the control unit controls the display lamp to be lit or brightened before the moving means including the pedal starts to accelerate or decelerate by the pedal.
The external detection device according to claim 1 or 2. The pedal consists of an accelerator pedal and a brake pedal.
The external detection device is attached to each of the accelerator pedal and the brake pedal,
The color of the display lamp corresponding to the external detection device attached to the accelerator pedal means “advance” or “may advance” of the road signal in the country or region where the external detection device is used. Similar to the color,
The color of the display lamp corresponding to the external detection device attached to the brake pedal is similar to the color meaning “stop” of the road signal in the country or region where the external detection device is used. ,
The external detection apparatus of any one of Claim 1 thru | or 3. A sensor for detecting the brightness of the environment around the display lamp;
Based on the brightness detected by the sensor, the control unit determines the light emission intensity of the display lamp at night or when the surrounding environment is relatively dark, and light emission during the day or when the surrounding environment is relatively bright. Control to be higher than strength,
The external detection apparatus of any one of Claim 1 thru | or 3. The control unit controls the light emission intensity of the display lamp to be higher than the normal light emission intensity for a predetermined time from when the cover body is depressed.
The external detection apparatus of any one of Claim 1 thru | or 3. The control unit controls the display lamp to blink only for a predetermined time from when the cover body is depressed.
The external detection apparatus of any one of Claim 1 thru | or 3. The variation mechanism, the light emitting unit, the light receiving unit, the control unit, and the shield are arranged on a substrate,
The substrate is disposed at an arbitrary position on the substrate;
The external detection apparatus of any one of Claim 1 thru | or 3. When the cover body provided with a variation mechanism that varies the relative distance with the base body is stepped on the base body side,
The light-receiving unit that normally receives light from the light-emitting unit does not sense the light, so that the display lamp for being arranged in front of the driver's seat is turned on or brightened,
When the cover body is not stepped on, the cover body is separated from the base body and the light shielding is canceled, so that the light receiving unit senses the light, thereby turning off or reducing the display lamp. Light,
Detection method. When the cover body provided with a variation mechanism that varies the relative distance with the base body is stepped on the base body side,
Since the light from the light emitting unit is normally shielded, the light receiving unit that does not sense the light turns on or brightens the display lamp to be disposed in front of the driver's seat by sensing the light. Let
When the cover body is not stepped on, the cover body is separated from the base and shields the light, so that the light receiving unit does not sense the light, thereby turning off or dimming the display lamp. ,
Detection method. When the cover body is stepped on the base side, the display means is turned on or brightened before the moving means including the pedal starts to accelerate or decelerate by the pedal,
The detection method according to claim 9 or 10. Based on the brightness detected by the sensor that detects the brightness of the surrounding environment of the display lamp, if the surrounding environment is relatively dark, the emission intensity of the display lamp is increased and the surrounding environment is compared. If it is bright, reduce the emission intensity of the indicator lamp.
The detection method according to any one of claims 9 to 11. The light emission intensity of the display lamp is made higher than the normal light emission intensity for a certain time from when the cover body is depressed,
The detection method according to any one of claims 9 to 11. Blinking the display lamp for a certain time from when the cover body is stepped on,
The detection method according to any one of claims 9 to 11.

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