JP2019042704A - Light irradiation device and light irradiation system - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a light irradiation device capable of efficiently irradiating a structure with ultraviolet light.SOLUTION: A light irradiation device 100 that irradiates a structure with ultraviolet light while traveling in a state mounted on the structure comprises: a traveling part 30 for traveling on the structure; a light source part 40 that irradiates the structure with ultraviolet light 42e; and a control part 20 that controls the traveling part 30. The light source part 40 includes a plurality of light sources that irradiate the structure with the ultraviolet light 42e from different directions. The light source part 40 includes a plurality light sources for irradiation with the ultraviolet light 42e from a position sandwiching the structure.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

  The present invention relates to a light irradiation apparatus and a light irradiation system for irradiating a structure with ultraviolet light.

  BACKGROUND Conventionally, a light irradiation apparatus that irradiates ultraviolet light is known. For example, Patent Document 1 describes a handrail of a passenger conveyor that sterilizes an endless handrail that orbits in synchronization with the steps of the passenger conveyor. In the sterilizer described in Patent Document 1, a slurry liquid containing photocatalyst particles is attached to the surface of the handrail while moving the handrail to be sterilized, and ultraviolet light is emitted from a position fixed to the handrail moving the orbit. Light emitting diode for emitting light.

JP, 2016-141551, A

The following recognition was obtained about the light irradiation apparatus which irradiates an ultraviolet light to a structure.
About handrails that multiple people touch, it is desirable from the viewpoint of public health to be disinfected in a timely manner. For example, handrails are provided on stairs, wall surfaces, etc. to assist the walking of elderly people etc. When an elderly person with reduced strength repeatedly grasps such handrails, infection is promoted through the handrails. To be concerned.

  In order to sterilize such handrails, it is conceivable to use a light irradiation device that emits ultraviolet light. In this case, the light irradiation device is moved along the handrail, which requires much time and effort. In the case of a shortage of human resources, it is conceivable that the frequency of implementation of sterilization decreases and the hygiene of handrails decreases.

Such problems may occur not only for handrails but also for other types of structures. Moreover, such a subject may arise not only for sterilization of a structure but the application different from sterilization, such as hardening of the coating material apply | coated to the structure, for example.
From this, the inventor has recognized that the light irradiation device has room for improvement in terms of efficiently irradiating the structure with ultraviolet light.

  The object of the present invention is made in view of such a subject, and there is in providing a light irradiation device which can irradiate an ultraviolet light to a structure efficiently.

  In order to solve the above problems, a light irradiation apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention is a light irradiation apparatus for irradiating the structure with ultraviolet light while traveling while being mounted on the structure, And a light source unit for irradiating the structure with ultraviolet light, and a control unit for controlling the traveling unit.

  According to this aspect, the structure can be irradiated with ultraviolet light while being self-propelled while being placed on the structure.

  Another aspect of the present invention is a light irradiation system. The light irradiation system includes the above-described light irradiation device and a charging device for charging a battery. The light irradiation device includes a battery and a power receiving unit that receives power for charging the battery. The charging device has a power feeding unit for supplying power to the power receiving unit. The power feeding unit is provided at a position at which power can be supplied to the power receiving unit on the traveling route of the light emitting device.

  It is to be noted that any combination of the above-described constituent elements, and one in which the constituent elements and expressions of the present invention are mutually replaced among methods, systems, etc. is also effective as an aspect of the present invention.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a light irradiation device capable of efficiently irradiating ultraviolet light to a structure.

It is a perspective view of the light irradiation apparatus which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a front view of the light irradiation apparatus of FIG. It is a side view of the light irradiation apparatus of FIG. It is a bottom view of the light irradiation apparatus of FIG. It is a block diagram of the light irradiation apparatus of FIG. It is a flowchart explaining operation | movement of the light irradiation apparatus of FIG. It is a front view of the light irradiation apparatus which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a side view of the light irradiation apparatus of FIG. It is explanatory drawing explaining an example of operation | movement of the light irradiation apparatus of FIG. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the shape of the clearance gap part of the light irradiation apparatus which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a block diagram showing the light irradiation system concerning a 3rd embodiment.

The inventor considered the light irradiation device and obtained the following recognition.
In order to improve the hygienic condition of a structure having a long shape such as handrail, it is effective to increase the frequency of sterilization by the light irradiation device. However, if the light irradiation device is moved along the handrail, it takes a lot of labor and it is difficult to increase the frequency of sterilization. Therefore, the present inventor examines the structure from the viewpoint of efficiently sterilizing the structure with a light irradiation device, and irradiates the structure with ultraviolet light while self-running in the traveling direction with the structure mounted on the structure. Was devised. In this case, since ultraviolet light is irradiated while self-running, the time for sterilization can be greatly reduced and the frequency of sterilization can be increased.
The embodiment is devised based on such thinking, and the specific configuration thereof will be described below.

Hereinafter, the present invention will be described based on preferred embodiments with reference to the drawings. In the embodiment and the modification, the same or equivalent constituent elements and members are denoted by the same reference numerals, and duplicating descriptions will be appropriately omitted. In addition, dimensions of members in each drawing are shown appropriately enlarged or reduced for easy understanding. In each drawing, a part of members which are not important in describing the embodiment is omitted and displayed.
Also, although terms including first and second ordinal numbers are used to describe various components, this term is used only to distinguish one component from another component, and this term The constituent elements are not limited by

First Embodiment
A light irradiation apparatus 100 according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5. FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a light irradiation apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a front view showing the light irradiation device 100. As shown in FIG. FIG. 2 shows a state in which a front face portion 10 e described later is removed. FIG. 3 is a side view showing the light irradiation device 100. As shown in FIG. FIG. 3 shows a longitudinal cross section taken along the line A-A of FIG. FIG. 4 is a bottom view showing the light irradiation device 100. As shown in FIG. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an example of the light irradiation device 100. As shown in FIG. The following description is based on the XYZ orthogonal coordinate system. The X-axis direction corresponds to horizontal horizontal direction, the Y-axis direction corresponds to horizontal horizontal direction, and the Z-axis direction corresponds to vertical vertical direction. The Y-axis direction and the Z-axis direction are orthogonal to the X-axis direction. The X-axis direction may be described as the left direction or the right direction, the Y-axis direction as the front direction or the back direction, the positive direction as the Z-axis direction as upward, and the negative direction as the Z-axis direction as downward. The notation of such directions does not limit the use posture of the light irradiation device 100, and the light irradiation device 100 can be used in any posture.

  The light irradiation apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment is an apparatus that irradiates the handrail 1 with ultraviolet light while being self-propelled in the Y-axis direction while being mounted on the handrail 1 that is a structure extending in the Y-axis direction. is there. The handrail 1 may be a columnar structure or a rod-like structure. Before describing the light irradiation device 100, the handrail 1 to be sterilized will be described. The handrail 1 includes a handrail main body 1b extending in the Y-axis direction, and a support 1c projecting from the handrail main body 1b. The cross-sectional shape in the Y-axis direction of the handrail main body 1b is not particularly limited. In the example of FIG. 1, the cross-sectional shape in the Y-axis direction is substantially rectangular. The support 1c extends downward from the handrail main portion 1b, and the extension end is fixed to a floor or the like (not shown). The support 1c may be one or more support posts. In the example of FIG. 1, a plurality of supports 1 c are provided at appropriate intervals to support the handrail main body 1 b. The cross-sectional shape of the support 1c is not particularly limited, and in the example of FIG. 1, it is substantially rectangular in top view.

  The light irradiation device 100 controls the case 10, the traveling unit 30, the light source unit 40, the power supply unit 14, the power receiving unit 16, the obstacle sensor 22, the end sensor 24, and the operation input unit 26. And 20 mainly. Although not shown, the light irradiation device 100 has a cooling mechanism based on various principles such as water cooling and air cooling in order to reduce the temperature rise of the portion used by supplying a large current such as the light source unit 40 and the power supply unit 14. It may be provided. The light irradiation apparatus 100 is used in the state mounted so that it may straddle the handrail main-body part 1b, as shown in FIG.

(Housing)
The housing 10 is a housing that accommodates some or all of the components of the light irradiation device 100. In the example of FIG. 3, the housing 10 controls the traveling unit 30, the light source unit 40, the power supply unit 14, the power receiving unit 16, the obstacle sensor 22, the end sensor 24, the operation input unit 26, and And 20 are housed. The shape of the housing 10 is not particularly limited. In this example, the housing 10 includes a cylindrical portion 10 b, a front portion 10 e, and a back portion 10 f. The cylindrical portion 10 b surrounds the handrail 1 which is a structure. The front part 10e covers the front side of the cylindrical part 10b. The back surface portion 10 f covers the back surface side of the cylindrical portion 10 b.

  The cylindrical portion 10b has a rectangular cylindrical shape having a substantially rectangular outline in a front view. The cylindrical portion 10 b has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape whose outline in plan view and side view is substantially rectangular. The cylindrical portion 10b has a pair of side surface portions 10c, an upper surface portion 10d, and a bottom surface portion 10g. The bottom 10g of the cylindrical portion 10b is provided with a gap 10h for avoiding the support 1c when traveling. The gap 10 h is a groove extending in the traveling direction (Y-axis direction) in bottom view as shown in FIG. 4. The housing 10 can be formed of various materials such as a resin material and a metal material. In the example of FIG. 1, the housing 10 is formed of a resin material.

(Traveling unit)
The traveling unit 30 is a traveling mechanism for traveling on the structure. The traveling principle is not particularly limited as long as the traveling unit 30 is configured to travel on the structure. The traveling unit 30 may be configured to include, for example, a caterpillar. In this example, the traveling unit 30 adopts a configuration in which traveling is performed by rotating a wheel that contacts a structure. The traveling unit 30 includes wheels 32, a motor (not shown) for driving the wheels 32, and a speed reduction mechanism (not shown). The wheels 32 include wheels 32 c and 32 d in contact with the handrail 1 as a structure from both left and right sides, and a wheel 32 e in contact with the handrail 1 from the upper side.

(Wheel)
The wheels 32c and 32d and the wheels 32e may include a plurality of (for example, two) wheels spaced apart in the traveling direction (Y-axis direction). That is, the traveling unit 30 is supported by the wheels 32 including the six wheels coming into contact with the handrail 1 from both the front and rear sides and the upper side. The traveling unit 30 can move forward and backward in the Y-axis direction by rotationally driving the wheels 32c, 32d, and 32e. By arranging each of the plurality of wheels at a position corresponding to the shape of the structure, it can be applied to various shapes of the structure. At least a portion of the wheel 32 may be variably supported in position with respect to the housing 10 by a movable suspension mechanism. By supporting the wheel in this manner, contact between the wheel and the structure can be easily secured even when the shape of the structure changes in the middle.

(Light source section)
The light source unit 40 is an irradiation unit that irradiates the structure with the irradiation light 42. The illumination light 42 is output to illuminate the surface of the structure. The irradiation light 42 may include ultraviolet light 42e of one or more wavelengths having a bactericidal action. The ultraviolet light 42e may be deep ultraviolet light. The wavelength of the ultraviolet light 42e may be in the range of 250 nm to 350 nm, preferably in the range of 265 nm to 300 nm. In this example, the wavelength of the ultraviolet light 42e is set to 280 nm. The ultraviolet light 42e may be laser light or non-laser light. The light source unit 40 may include a reflecting member (not shown) using a highly reflective material such as, for example, aluminum, in order to reflect the ultraviolet light 42 e and guide it to the structure.

  Although the light source of the ultraviolet light 42e is not particularly limited, it may be, for example, a light emitting diode (LED). In this example, the light source unit 40 includes the LED 44 as a light source that outputs the ultraviolet light 42e. The light source unit 40 includes a drive circuit (not shown) that drives the LED 44. By providing the LED 44, the light irradiation device 100 can be easily miniaturized. The LED 44 may be a single LED, but in this example includes multiple LEDs 44b. By providing the plurality of LEDs 44b, the irradiation possible range can be easily expanded. Hereinafter, the arrangement of the plurality of LEDs 44b will be described.

  It is desirable for the ultraviolet light 42e to reach a wide range of structures. However, light emitted from above does not easily reach the side of the structure, and light emitted from the side does not easily reach the upper side of the structure. For this reason, the light source unit 40 may include a plurality of light sources for irradiating the structure with ultraviolet light from different directions. In the light irradiation apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment, the plurality of LEDs 44 b are arranged to irradiate the handrail 1 with ultraviolet light 42 e from different directions. In this example, the plurality of LEDs 44b are arranged apart from one another, and a part of the ultraviolet light 42e emitted from the plurality of LEDs 44b intersects.

  It is conceivable that human hands touch not only one side of the structure but also left and right sides. For this reason, the light source unit 40 may include a plurality of light sources that emit ultraviolet light from the position sandwiching the structure. In the light irradiation device 100 according to the first embodiment, the plurality of LEDs 44 b are arranged to emit ultraviolet light 42 e from a position sandwiching the handrail 1. For example, the plurality of LEDs 44 b include LEDs that emit ultraviolet light 42 e from a position that sandwiches the handrail 1 on the left and right.

  It is desirable that both the upper and lower surfaces of the structure be sterilized. Thus, the light source unit 40 may include a light source that emits ultraviolet light from a position above the structure and a light source that emits ultraviolet light from a position below the structure. In the light irradiation device 100 according to the first embodiment, the plurality of LEDs 44 b include an LED that emits ultraviolet light 42 e from a position above the handrail 1 and an LED that emits ultraviolet light 42 e from a position below the handrail 1. It contains.

(Power supply part)
The power supply unit 14 is a power supply unit that supplies power to at least one of the light source unit 40, the traveling unit 30, and the control unit 20. The power supply unit 14 may be configured to supply the power received from the outside by wire or wirelessly, and may be configured to include the battery 14 b. The battery 14 b may be a primary battery or a secondary battery. In the light irradiation device 100, the power supply unit 14 includes a battery 14b, which is a chargeable / dischargeable secondary battery, and a charging unit 14c that charges the battery 14b. The power supply unit 14 is configured to supply the power stored in the battery 14 b to the light source unit 40, the traveling unit 30, and the control unit 20. By providing the battery 14 b, it is possible to save time and effort for wiring for power reception, and to easily expand the travelable range of the light irradiation device 100.

(Receiver)
The power receiving unit 16 is a power receiving unit that receives power from the outside. The power receiving unit 16 may be configured to charge the battery 14 b with the received power. Although the power receiving principle of the power receiving unit 16 is not particularly limited, for example, power may be received via a wire connected continuously, or may be received via a contact temporarily connected such as an electrical contact or a connector. It may receive power by a contact power transfer mechanism. In the light irradiation device 100, the power reception unit 16 includes a power reception coil 16e for noncontact power transmission. In this case, since it is a non-contact type, it is unlikely to be affected by the change with time. The power receiving coil 16e receives an alternating magnetic flux generated in a power transmitting coil 16f described later and generates an electromotive force by the principle of electromagnetic induction. The power receiving unit 16 supplies the electromotive force of the power receiving coil 16e to the charging unit 14c. The charging unit 14c rectifies the electromotive force from the power receiving coil 16e to charge the battery 14b.

(Operation input unit)
The operation input unit 26 is a man-machine interface for inputting an operation of the light emitting device 100. For example, a start switch (not shown) and a stop switch (not shown) are included, and the operation of the light irradiation apparatus 100 is started by operating the start switch, and the operation of the light irradiation apparatus 100 is stopped by operating the stop switch. You may do it. The operation result of the operation input unit 26 is output to the control unit 20.

(Obstacle sensor)
The obstacle sensor 22 is a detection mechanism that detects an obstacle to the traveling of the light irradiation device 100. The obstacle sensor 22 is not particularly limited as long as it can detect an obstacle. For example, a laser sensor or a limit switch can be employed. In the example of FIG. 3, the obstacle sensor 22 is a limit switch having a head protruding from the back surface 10 f of the light irradiation device 100. If the head of the limit switch abuts against an obstacle such as the wall 1w while the light irradiation device 100 travels backward in the Y-axis direction, the normally open contact of the limit switch switches to closed and the obstacle is detected Be done. The detection result of the obstacle sensor 22 is output to the control unit 20.

  When the obstacle sensor 22 detects an obstacle, the control unit 20 may be configured to control the traveling unit 30 to stop traveling of the light irradiation device 100 or travel in the opposite direction. In this example, the control unit 20 controls the traveling unit 30 so as to stop the traveling of the light emitting device 100 when the obstacle sensor 22 abuts on the wall 1 w.

(End sensor)
The end sensor 24 is a detection mechanism that detects an end of a structure. The end sensor 24 is not particularly limited as long as it can detect the end of the structure, and for example, a laser sensor or the like can be employed. In the example of FIG. 3, the end sensor 24 is a laser sensor that outputs a detection laser downward. When the light irradiation device 100 travels forward in the Y-axis direction, the detection state changes when the detection position of the laser sensor passes the end 1e which is the end of the handrail main portion 1b, and the end 1e is detected. Ru. The detection result of the end sensor 24 is output to the control unit 20.

  The control unit 20 may be configured to control the traveling unit 30 so as to stop the traveling of the light irradiation apparatus 100 or to travel in the opposite direction when the end sensor 24 detects the end of the structure. In this example, when the end sensor 24 detects the end 1 e of the handrail main body 1 b, the control unit 20 controls the traveling unit 30 so that the light irradiation device 100 travels in the opposite direction.

(Control unit)
Next, the control unit 20 will be described. FIG. 5 is a block diagram for explaining the light irradiation device 100. As shown in FIG. Each block of the control unit 20 shown in FIG. 5 can be realized by hardware as an element such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) of a computer or by a mechanical device, and software can be realized by a computer program or the like. However, here, the functional block realized by those cooperation is drawn. Therefore, it is understood by those skilled in the art who have been mentioned in the present specification that these functional blocks can be realized in various forms by a combination of hardware and software.

  The control unit 20 includes an operation result acquisition unit 20b, a first detection result acquisition unit 20c, a second detection result acquisition unit 20d, a travel control unit 20f, a light source control unit 20g, a timer unit 20j, and a charge control unit. And 20k. The operation result acquisition unit 20 b acquires an operation result from the operation input unit 26. The first detection result acquisition unit 20 c acquires a detection result from the obstacle sensor 22. The second detection result acquisition unit 20 d acquires the detection result from the end sensor 24. The traveling control unit 20 f controls the operation of the traveling unit 30. The light source control unit 20 g controls the operation of the light source unit 40. The timer unit 20j generates time information and time information. The charge control unit 20 k controls the operation of the charging unit 14 c of the power supply unit 14.

  Next, an example of the operation of the light irradiation device 100 of the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 6 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the operation of the light irradiation apparatus 100. This flowchart shows processing S100 when the handrail 1 which is a structure is irradiated with ultraviolet light by the light irradiation device 100. In FIG. 6, a part of the process which is not important in describing the first embodiment is omitted. The process S100 of the first embodiment includes a process of irradiating the ultraviolet light 42e while traveling the handrail main body 1b of the handrail 1 and a process of charging the battery of the light irradiation device 100.

(1) When the process is started, the control unit 20 acquires an operation result of activation from the operation input unit 26 (step S102).
(2) When the start-up operation is received, the control unit 20 refers to the timer unit 20j and determines whether a predetermined start time has passed (step S104). The light irradiation apparatus 100 can set a predetermined start time in advance. This start time may be set to a less popular night time. This start time can be set at a constant time interval, for example, every hour. This start time can be set according to the desired sterilization frequency.

(3) If the start time has not passed (N in step S104), the control unit 20 returns the process to the beginning of step S104.
(4) When the start time has passed (Y in step S104), the control unit 20 controls the light source unit 40 to start irradiation of the ultraviolet light 42e (step S106).

(5) When the irradiation is started, the control unit 20 controls the traveling unit 30 to start traveling forward (step S108).
(6) When forward traveling is started, the control unit 20 refers to the detection result of the end sensor 24 and determines whether the end 1e of the handrail main body 1b is detected (step S110).

(7) When the end 1e is not detected (N in step S110), the control unit 20 returns the process to the beginning of step S108 and continues forward traveling. During this time, the irradiation of the ultraviolet light 42e is continued.
(8) When the end 1e is detected (Y in step S110), the control unit 20 controls the traveling unit 30 to start traveling backward (step S112).

(9) When the backward traveling is started, the control unit 20 refers to the detection result of the obstacle sensor 22 and determines whether or not the obstacle is detected (step S114).
(10) If an obstacle is not detected (N in step S114), the control unit 20 returns the process to the beginning of step S112 and continues backward travel. During this time, the irradiation of the ultraviolet light 42e is continued.

(11) When the wall 1w is detected as an obstacle (Y in step S114), the control unit 20 stops traveling and irradiation of the ultraviolet light 42e (step S116).
(12) If it stops in the state which detected wall 1w, control part 20 will control charge part 14c of power supply part 14, and will charge battery 14b (Step S118). In this step, an alternating current is supplied to the power transmission coil 16f (in particular, refer to FIG. 1) provided on the wall 1w. The power receiving coil 16e receives an alternating magnetic flux generated by the power transmitting coil 16f, generates an electromotive force, and supplies the generated electromotive force to the charging unit 14c. The charging unit 14c rectifies the electromotive force of the power receiving coil 16e to charge the battery 14b. It is not essential to charge the battery 14b.

After charging the battery 14b, the control unit 20 ends the process S100. After the battery 14b is charged, the process may be returned to the beginning of step S104 to wait for the next start time.
The process S100 is merely an example, and other steps may be added, some steps may be changed or deleted, or the order of the steps may be changed.

  Next, the operation and effects of the light irradiation device 100 configured as described above will be described.

  The light irradiation device 100 according to the first embodiment is a light irradiation device that irradiates the handrail 1 with ultraviolet light 42e while being self-propelled while being placed on the handrail 1, and a traveling unit for traveling the handrail 1 The light source unit 40 emits ultraviolet light 42 e to the handrail 1, and the control unit 20 controls the traveling unit 30. According to this configuration, since the ultraviolet light 42 e is irradiated while self-traveling while being placed on the handrail 1, the time and labor required to sterilize the handrail 1 can be significantly reduced. It becomes possible to automate sterilization of the handrail 1.

  In the light irradiation apparatus 100 of the first embodiment, the structure is a columnar structure or a rod-like structure. According to this configuration, since the light irradiation device 100 can self-propelled in a state of straddling the columnar structure or the rod-like structure, the ultraviolet light 42e is emitted not only to the upper surface but also to the side surface of these structures. It can be irradiated.

  In the light irradiation apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment, the light source unit 40 includes a plurality of LEDs 44 b that irradiate the handrail 1 with ultraviolet light 42 e from different directions. According to this configuration, it is possible to irradiate ultraviolet light 42 e to a wide range of the handrail 1. The shade of the ultraviolet light 42 e generated by the shape of the handrail 1 can be reduced.

  In the light irradiation device 100 according to the first embodiment, the light source unit 40 includes a plurality of LEDs 44 b that emit ultraviolet light 42 e from a position sandwiching the handrail 1. According to this configuration, the ultraviolet light 42 e can be efficiently irradiated to the upper and lower sides, the left and right sides, and the like of the handrail 1.

  In the light irradiation device 100 according to the first embodiment, the light source unit 40 includes an LED that emits ultraviolet light 42 e from a position above the handrail 1 and an LED that emits ultraviolet light 42 e from a position below the handrail 1. Including. According to this configuration, it is possible to efficiently irradiate the ultraviolet light 42 e not only to the upper surface of the handrail 1 but also to the lower surface. For example, as in the example of FIG. 1, the lower surface side from which the support 1 c protrudes can be efficiently sterilized.

  In the light irradiation device 100 of the first embodiment, the cylindrical portion 10b is provided with a gap portion 10h for avoiding the support 1c protruding from the surface of the handrail 1 when traveling. According to this configuration, even when the handrail 1 includes the support 1 c, the light irradiation device 100 can travel on the handrail 1.

  In the light irradiation apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment, the control unit 20 stops the traveling or controls the traveling unit 30 to travel in the opposite direction when it detects an obstacle to traveling. According to this configuration, since the vehicle stops or reversely travels in response to the obstacle, it is possible to automate the operation of the light emitting device 100.

  In the light irradiation device 100 according to the first embodiment, the control unit 20 controls the traveling unit 30 to stop traveling or travel in the opposite direction when the end 1 e of the handrail 1 is detected. According to this configuration, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the light irradiation apparatus 100 overruns and falls from the end. Moreover, it becomes possible to automate operation | movement of the light irradiation apparatus 100 by reversely traveling corresponding to the edge part 1e.

Second Embodiment
A light irradiation apparatus 200 according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 7 to 9. The light irradiation device 200 according to the second embodiment is, for example, a light irradiation device that irradiates the columnar structure 101 with ultraviolet light 42e while self-running the columnar structure 101 disposed laterally along the wall. FIG. 7 is a front view of the light irradiation device 200. FIG. FIG. 8 is a side view of the light irradiation device 200. In FIG. 7 and FIG. 8, a part of the description of the unimportant members and elements is omitted. FIG. 9 is an explanatory view for explaining an example of the traveling operation of the light irradiation device 200. As shown in FIG.

  In the example of FIG. 7 and FIG. 8, the columnar structure 101 includes a main body portion 101 b extending in the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction), and a support 101 c protruding from the main body portion 101 b. The outer peripheral cross section viewed in the longitudinal direction of the main body portion 101 b is circular. The support 101c extends laterally from the main body portion 101b, and the extended end is fixed to a wall or the like (not shown). The support 101 c may be a support. The columnar structure 101 may be a handrail as an example.

  In the examples of FIGS. 7 and 8, the light irradiation apparatus 200 mainly includes a housing 110, a traveling unit 130, a light source unit 140, a control unit 120, and a power supply unit 114. The light irradiation apparatus 200 may include a power reception unit, an obstacle sensor, an end sensor, and an operation input unit as in the first embodiment. The light irradiation apparatus 200 is different from the light irradiation apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment in the shape of the housing 110, and the other configuration is substantially the same. Descriptions overlapping with the first embodiment will be omitted, and mainly different configurations will be described. The control unit 120 corresponds to the control unit 20 of the first embodiment and has substantially the same features. The power supply unit 114 corresponds to the power supply unit 14 of the first embodiment and has substantially the same features.

  The housing 110 includes a tubular portion 110 b. The inner cylindrical surface 110 j of the cylindrical portion 110 b encircles the periphery of the main body portion 101 b. The inner cylindrical surface 110 j of the cylindrical portion 110 b has a substantially dodecagonal outline in a front view. With this configuration, the housing 110 can rotate around the outer peripheral surface of the main body portion 101 b with a gap. That is, the light irradiation device 200 can travel in the longitudinal direction of the columnar structure 101 while rotating around the main body portion 101b, and can irradiate the ultraviolet light 42e to the main body portion 101b. In particular, the traveling direction of the light irradiation device 200 is the Y-axis direction in the example of this figure, and substantially coincides with the longitudinal direction of the main body portion 101b. The cylindrical portion 110b of the housing 110 is provided with a gap portion 110h for avoiding the support 101c when traveling.

  The traveling unit 130 includes a plurality of wheels 132 b circumferentially spaced apart so as to surround the main body unit 101 b. In the example of FIG. 7, a wheel set 132 consisting of three wheels 132b is provided on the inner cylindrical surface 110j at intervals of about 120 °. Although not shown, another wheel set 132 is provided on the inner cylindrical surface 110 j apart in the traveling direction (Y-axis direction). The light irradiation device 200 can be advanced and retracted in the traveling direction by rotating the plurality of wheels 132b in contact with the main body portion 101b.

  The light source unit 140 includes a plurality of LEDs 44 b arranged in the circumferential direction so as to surround the main body unit 101 b. In the example of FIG. 7, the LED set 144 which consists of 16 LED44b apart in the circumferential direction is provided in the inner cylinder surface 110j. Although not shown, a plurality of LED sets 144 are disposed on the inner cylindrical surface 110j apart in the traveling direction (Y-axis direction). That is, the plurality of LEDs 44b are arranged in a matrix on the inner cylindrical surface 110j in the circumferential direction and in the traveling direction. The plurality of LEDs 44b arranged in this manner can irradiate the ultraviolet light 42e substantially uniformly to the region facing the inner cylindrical surface 110j of the main body portion 101b. Conversely, the plurality of LEDs 44b hardly irradiate the ultraviolet light 42e to the non-facing region not facing the inner cylindrical surface 110j of the main body portion 101b. For this reason, in the configuration in which the gap portion 110h is provided linearly along the traveling direction, the ultraviolet light 42e is hardly irradiated to the region corresponding to the gap portion 110h of the main body portion 101b.

  An area not irradiated with the ultraviolet light 42e may be insufficiently sterilized. Therefore, in the example of FIG. 8, the gap portion 110 h includes the extending portions 110 k and 110 n extending in the traveling direction, and the inclined portion 110 m extending in the direction inclined with respect to the traveling direction. In FIG. 8, the inclined portion 110m extends in the circumferential direction of the cylindrical portion 110b so as to connect the left end of the extending portion 110k and the right end of the extending portion 110n. By providing the extending portion 110k and the extending portion 110n in a staggered manner, it is possible to reduce the area where the ultraviolet light 42e is not irradiated.

  The light source unit 140 may include a reflective member (not shown) using a highly reflective material such as aluminum, for example, to reflect the ultraviolet light 42 e and guide it to the structure.

  The cylindrical portion 110b has the projecting portions 110p and 110q which are projected in the circumferential direction toward the gap portion 110h by providing the extending portion 110k and the extending portion 110n in a stepped manner. The LED 44b is also disposed on the inner cylindrical surface 110j of the overhang portions 110p and 110q, and the ultraviolet light 42e is irradiated to the main body portion 101b at that portion. Therefore, when the light irradiation device 200 travels in the right direction, the ultraviolet light 42e is emitted from the overhanging portion 110q also to a region which has not been irradiated with the ultraviolet light 42e by facing the extending portion 110k. When the light irradiation device 200 travels in the left direction, the ultraviolet light 42e is emitted from the overhanging portion 110p also to a region which has not been irradiated with the ultraviolet light 42e by facing the extending portion 110n. Therefore, the area | region which is not irradiated with the ultraviolet light 42e hardly arises.

  If the overhanging portion is provided, it is conceivable that the support 101 c strikes the overhanging portion and the traveling of the light irradiation device 200 is inhibited. Therefore, the light irradiation device 200 of the second embodiment is configured to be capable of traveling beyond the support 101 c by rotating the light irradiation device 200 around the main body portion 101 b.

An example of an operation in which the light irradiation device 200 travels past the support 101 c will be described with reference to (a) to (d) of FIG. 9. In FIG. 9, the main body portion 101 b and the support 101 c are stationary, and the light irradiation device 200 travels from left to right.
(1) When the light irradiation device 200 moves in the right direction as shown by arrow A in FIG. 9A, the support 101c is eventually accommodated in the extension portion 110k.
(2) In this state, when the light irradiation device 200 moves to the right, as shown in FIG. 9B, the support 101c is accommodated in the inclined portion 110m, and the overhang portion 110q eventually abuts on the support 101c.
(3) In that state, as shown in FIG. 9C, the light irradiation device 200 is rotated as shown by arrow C, whereby the engagement between the support 101c and the overhang portion 110q is released, and light irradiation is performed. The device 200 can move to the right.
(4) In that state, as shown in FIG. 9 (d), when the light irradiation device 200 moves to the right, the support 101c is accommodated in the extension portion 110n.
(5) In this state, when the light irradiation device 200 moves to the right, the light irradiation device 200 can travel to the right beyond the support 101 c.

  In order to rotate the light irradiation device 200 as shown by the arrow C, a rotation mechanism may be provided to rotate the light irradiation device 200. In the example of FIG. 8, the inclined portion 110m is set to be inclined by about 10 ° with respect to the circumferential direction. The light irradiation device 200 is configured to generate a component of force in the rotational direction when the support body 101c abuts on the inclined overhanging part, and to rotate by the component of force.

  FIG. 10 is a schematic view showing an example of a variation of the shape of the gap 110 h of the light irradiation apparatus 200 according to the second embodiment. According to the shapes shown in (a) to (d) of FIG. 10, when the support body 101c abuts on the overhang portion 110q, a component of force in the rotational direction acts on the overhang portion 110q.

  In the example of (a) of FIG. 10, the inclined portion 110m is inclined by about 20 ° with respect to the circumferential direction, and the overhang portions 110p and 110q are set to overlap each other in the circumferential direction. By overlapping the overhanging portions, it is possible to reduce the area where the ultraviolet light 42e is not irradiated. In the example of (b) of FIG. 10, the inclined portion 110m is inclined by about 60 ° with respect to the circumferential direction, and the inclined portion 110m is connected to the extending portions 110k and 110n in a curvilinear manner.

  In the example of (c) of FIG. 10, the extending portions 110k and 110n and the inclined portion 110m are inclined at about 60 ° with respect to the circumferential direction, and the extending portions 110k and 110n and the inclined portion 110m are connected straight. In the example of (d) of FIG. 10, the extending portions 110k and 110n extend in the traveling direction, the inclined portion 110m is inclined at about 70 ° with respect to the circumferential direction, and the inclined portion 110m corresponds to the extending portions 110k and 110n. It is connected in a curvilinear manner.

  In the example of (e) of FIG. 10, the inclined portion 110m includes an inclined portion 110m1 and an inclined portion 110m2 connected at substantially the center. The inclined portion 110m1 is inclined by about 60 ° with respect to the circumferential direction, and the inclined portion 110m2 is inclined by about 120 ° with respect to the circumferential direction. That is, the inclined portion 110m has a substantially V-shaped shape that is folded back at substantially the center. The extending portions 110k and 110n extend in the traveling direction, the extending portion 110n is connected to the inclined portion 110m1, and the extending portion 110k is connected to the inclined portion 110m2.

  In the example of (f) of FIG. 10, the inclined portion 110m includes an inclined portion 110m1 and an inclined portion 110m2 which are connected at substantially the center. The inclined portion 110m1 is inclined by about 60 ° with respect to the circumferential direction, and the inclined portion 110m2 is inclined by about 120 ° with respect to the circumferential direction. That is, the inclined portion 110m has a substantially V-shaped shape that is folded back at substantially the center. The extending portion 110 n extends in the extension direction of the inclined portion 110 m 1 and is connected to the inclined portion 110 m 1 in a straight line. The extending portion 110k extends in the extension direction of the inclined portion 110m2 and is connected to the inclined portion 110m2 in a straight line. As such, the shape of the gap 110 h can be selected from various shapes according to the desired characteristics.

  The light irradiation apparatus 200 according to the second embodiment has the same configuration as the light irradiation apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment, so that the same operation and effect as the light irradiation apparatus 100 are achieved. In addition, the light irradiation device 200 exhibits the following actions and effects.

  In the light irradiation device 200, the gap portion 110h includes an inclined portion 110m extending in a direction inclined with respect to the traveling direction. According to this configuration, by having the inclined portion 110m, it is possible to travel past the support 101c while rotating around the main body portion 101b by receiving a component force in the rotational direction. Further, by providing the extended portions 110k and the extended portions 110n in a staggered manner, it is possible to reduce the area of the main body portion 101b not irradiated with the ultraviolet light 42e.

Third Embodiment
Next, a light irradiation system 300 using the light irradiation apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a light irradiation system 300 according to the third embodiment. The light irradiation system 300 includes the light irradiation device 100 and a charging device 270 for charging the battery 14 b of the light irradiation device 100. The light irradiation apparatus 100 includes a battery 14 b and a power receiving unit 16 that receives power for charging the battery 14 b. In the example of FIG. 11, the power reception unit 16 includes a power reception coil 16e.

  The charging device 270 includes a power feeding unit 280 for supplying power to the power receiving unit 16. In the example of FIG. 11, the feeding portion 280 is provided near the surface of the wall portion 260 and includes the power transmission coil 16 f. The feeding unit 280 feeds power to the receiving coil 16e by outputting an alternating magnetic field from the transmitting coil 16f. The power feeding unit 280 is provided at a position at which power can be fed to the power receiving unit 16 in the traveling route of the light emitting device 100. In the example of FIG. 11, the power transmission coil 16 f is provided at a position where the power reception coil 16 e and the power transmission coil 16 f are magnetically coupled in a state where the light irradiation device 100 approaches the wall portion 260. Specifically, the power transmission coil 16 f is disposed at a position facing the power reception coil 16 e.

  The wall portion 260 may be formed with a recess 260 b capable of accommodating at least a part of the light irradiation device 100. When the light emitting device 100 stands by, the protrusion from the wall portion 260 of the light emitting device 100 can be reduced.

  The light irradiation system 300 configured in this way can charge the battery 14 b when waiting in the travel route of the light irradiation device 100. It is easy to automate this charging operation, and the time and effort of operating the light irradiation device 100 can be greatly reduced.

  The above has been described based on each embodiment of the present invention. These embodiments are illustrative, and it is understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications and changes are possible within the scope of the claims of the present invention, and such variations and modifications are also within the scope of the claims of the present invention. It is about to be Accordingly, the descriptions and drawings herein are to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive.

  Hereinafter, modified examples will be described. In the drawings and description of the modified examples, the same components or members as those of the embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals. The description overlapping with the embodiment is appropriately omitted, and the configuration different from the first embodiment is mainly described.

(First modification)
In the description of the first embodiment, the example in which the light irradiation apparatus 100 is used for a horizontally linearly extending structure has been described, but is not limited thereto. The light emitting device 100 may be used, for example, for structures that extend obliquely or vertically. The light irradiation device 100 may be used for a structure whose traveling direction changes during traveling, such as a curved structure or a structure including a bend.

(2nd modification)
In the description of the first embodiment, although the example in which the light irradiation apparatus 100 is used for a structure having a support extending downward from the structure body has been described, the present invention is not limited thereto. The light emitting device 100 may be used, for example, for a structure having an upwardly, laterally or obliquely extending support. The light irradiation device 100 may be used for a substantially non-supporting structure.

(Third modification)
In the description of the first embodiment, the example in which the light irradiation device 100 is used for a structure having a rectangular cross-sectional shape in the Y-axis direction of the handrail main body portion 1b is described, but it is not limited thereto. The light irradiation device 100 can also be used for a structure in which the cross-sectional shape of the handrail main body is circular, oval, elliptical, polygonal, or a combination thereof.

(4th modification)
In the description of the first to third embodiments, the example in which the light irradiation device irradiates the structure with the ultraviolet light has been exclusively described, but the present invention is not limited to this. The light irradiation apparatus may include a trace member that traces the surface of the structure body while traveling on the structure body. The trace member may be provided to contact, for example, a portion of the structure to be irradiated with ultraviolet light. The trace member may be, for example, a brush, and in this case, part of foreign matter adhering to the surface of the structure body can be swept away. The trace member may be, for example, a flexible spatula, in which case it is possible to scrape off some of the foreign matter adhering to the surface of the structure body.

  The trace member may be, for example, a porous member such as cloth or sponge to which liquid is attached, or a liquid suction member, and in this case, it has a desired function such as wiping the surface of the structure body or photocatalyst. Liquid can be deposited. The trace member may be provided corresponding to one surface of the structure body or may be provided corresponding to a plurality of surfaces of the structure body. The trace member may comprise a plurality of members having different functions. By providing such a trace member, it is possible to carry out these actions and sterilization simultaneously, and it is possible to maintain the sanitary condition of the structure body in a better condition.

  Each of the above-described modifications has the same operation and effect as the first embodiment.

  Any combination of the above-described embodiments and the modifications is also useful as an embodiment of the present invention. The new embodiments resulting from the combination combine the effects of the respective embodiments and variations to be combined.

  In the drawings used for the description, hatching is applied to some members in order to clarify the relationship between the members, but the hatching does not limit the material or material of these members.

  1 · · · handrail, 10 · · · housing · 10h · · · · · · · · power supply unit, 16 · · power receiving unit, 20 · · · control unit, 22 · · · obstacle sensor, 24 · · end sensor, 30 ·································································································································································· ··· Irradiation device, 270 · · · Charging device, 280 · · Power feeding unit, 300 · · Light irradiation system.

Claims (9)

A light irradiator that irradiates ultraviolet light to a structure while traveling while being placed on the structure,
A traveling unit for traveling on the structure;
A light source unit for irradiating the structure with ultraviolet light;
A control unit that controls the traveling unit;
A light irradiation apparatus comprising:   The said structure is a columnar structure or a rod-shaped structure, The light irradiation apparatus of Claim 1 characterized by the above-mentioned.   The light irradiation apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the light source unit includes a plurality of light sources for irradiating the structure with the ultraviolet light from different directions.   The light irradiation device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the light source unit includes a plurality of light sources that irradiate the ultraviolet light from a position sandwiching the structure. And a housing including a tubular portion surrounding the structure.
The light irradiation device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the cylindrical portion is provided with a gap portion for avoiding a protruding portion which protrudes from the surface of the structure during traveling.   The light irradiation apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the gap portion includes an inclined portion extending in a direction inclined with respect to the traveling direction.   The said control part stops a driving | running | working, or when it detects what becomes obstacle of driving | running | working, controls the said driving | running | working part so that it may drive | work in a reverse direction. Light irradiation device.   8. The control unit according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein when the end of the structure is detected, the control unit stops the traveling or controls the traveling unit to travel in the opposite direction. Light irradiation device. A light emitting device according to any one of claims 1 to 8 and a charging device for charging a battery.
The light emitting device includes a battery and a power receiving unit that receives power for charging the battery.
The charging device has a power feeding unit for supplying power to the power receiving unit,
The light emitting system according to claim 1, wherein the power feeding unit is provided at a position where power can be supplied to the power receiving unit in a traveling route of the light emitting device.

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