WO2024090482A1 - Operation method and operation device for mechanical parking device - Google Patents

Abstract

An operation device (1) for a mechanical parking device (10) is provided with an operation panel (3) via which a user operates an entrance/exit door (21) of a passenger compartment (2) through which a vehicle (C) is entered and exited, and an alternative input means. The operation panel (3) is provided with an input means (32). The input means (32) receives input from the user during confirmation that the passenger compartment (2) is unoccupied and/or during an operation of opening or closing the entrance/exit door (21). When the input means (32) cannot be used normally, the alternative input means receives input from the user during confirmation that the passenger compartment (2) is unoccupied and/or during an operation of opening or closing the entrance/exit door (21).

Description

Method and device for operating mechanical parking device

The present invention relates to a method and device for operating a mechanical parking device.

A variety of large-scale mechanical parking systems have already been developed that efficiently utilize multi-level space, including horizontal circulation systems, elevator systems, and vertical circulation systems. These mechanical parking systems are equipped with boarding and disembarking spaces (berths) where vehicles enter and exit the parking space, and a control panel that opens and closes the entrance and exit doors to the boarding and disembarking spaces.

Patent Document 1 discloses a mechanical parking device in which a vehicle is placed on a pallet that is transported to a hangar, and in which a boarding/disembarking area is provided where the driver of the vehicle can get on and off the vehicle. The mechanical parking device is equipped with multiple cameras, a monitor, and an input means. The multiple cameras capture images of the inside of the boarding/disembarking area. The monitor is provided on an operation panel provided outside the boarding/disembarking area or in the vicinity of the operation panel, and displays images captured by the cameras. The input means is provided on an operation panel provided outside the boarding/disembarking area or in the vicinity of the operation panel, and inputs the status of safety checks performed by a person.

JP 2015-212516 A

In conventional mechanical parking systems, the operation panel often has a button or touch panel configuration as the input means. In recent years, the use of non-contact buttons (such as electrostatic sensors) for the operation panel has also been considered as a measure against infectious diseases.

However, regardless of the configuration of these operation buttons, there are problems such as the need to contact a service center or call an attendant if the operation button breaks down or does not respond, or if there is no problem with the operation button but the user is unable to use it properly due to a misunderstanding or carelessness on the part of the user. Furthermore, if non-contact buttons are used, it is expected that there will be an increased chance that the sensor will not respond even when a hand is placed over it due to a frozen or dirty surface.

The present invention was devised in consideration of these problems, and aims to provide an operating method and operating device for a mechanical parking device that allows the operation of the mechanical parking device to proceed even when the input means of the operating panel cannot be used.

According to a first aspect of the present invention, a method of operating a mechanical parking device is a method of operating a mechanical parking device equipped with an operation panel that allows a user to operate the opening and closing of an entrance door of a boarding/deboarding space where a vehicle enters or leaves the parking space, the operation panel having an input means, the input means receiving input from the user in at least one of the unmanned confirmation of the boarding/deboarding space and the opening and closing operation of the entrance door, and in the event that the input means cannot be used normally, an alternative input means receiving input from the user in at least one of the unmanned confirmation of the boarding/deboarding space and the opening and closing operation of the entrance door.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, the operating device of the mechanical parking device includes an operating panel that allows a user to operate the opening and closing of the entrance door of the boarding/de-boarding space where a vehicle enters or leaves the parking space, and includes an input means for receiving input from the user in at least one of the unmanned check of the boarding/de-boarding space and the opening and closing of the entrance door, and an alternative input means for receiving input from the user in at least one of the unmanned check of the boarding/de-boarding space and the opening and closing of the entrance door when the input means cannot be used normally.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, the operating device of the mechanical parking device includes an operating panel that allows a user to operate the opening and closing of the entrance door of the boarding/de-boarding space where a vehicle enters or leaves the parking space, and includes an input means for receiving input from the user for at least one of the unmanned check of the boarding/de-boarding space and the opening and closing operation of the entrance door, and an alternative input means for automatically checking that the boarding/de-boarding space is unmanned and causing the mechanical parking device to start the opening and closing operation of the entrance door when the input means cannot be used normally.

According to the present invention, even if the input means of the control panel cannot be used, it is possible to proceed with the operation of the mechanical parking device.

FIG. 1 is an overall configuration diagram showing the configuration of an operating device of a mechanical parking device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a front view of an operation panel in the operating device of the mechanical parking system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a block diagram of an operation panel in the operation device of the mechanical parking system according to the first embodiment. Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the control device of the operation panel in the operation device of the mechanical parking device in the first embodiment. Figure 5A is a processing flow diagram showing a method of operating the mechanical parking device according to the first embodiment. Figure 5B is a processing flow diagram showing the operation method of the mechanical parking device in the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a screen display of a display device in a case where the alternative input means according to the first embodiment is an authentication device. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a screen display of a display device in a case where the alternative input means according to the modification of the first embodiment is a touch panel. Figure 8A is a processing flow diagram showing a method of operating the mechanical parking device according to the second embodiment. Figure 8B is a processing flow diagram showing a method of operating the mechanical parking device according to the second embodiment. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a screen display of a display device in a case where the alternative input means according to the second embodiment is an authentication device. FIG. 10 is a block diagram of an operation panel in an operation device for a mechanical parking system according to the third embodiment. Figure 11 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of a control device of an operation panel in an operation device for a mechanical parking device in the third embodiment.

The first to third embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to Figures 1 to 11.

First Embodiment
First, an operation method for a mechanical parking device 10 and an operation device 1 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 6. The operation device 1 according to this embodiment is disposed in the mechanical parking device 10 as shown in Figure 1. The operation device 1 has an operation panel 3 that a user operates to open and close an entrance door 21 of a boarding/de-boarding space 2 through which a vehicle C is loaded or unloaded. The mechanical parking device 10 has an interior camera 4 disposed inside the boarding/de-boarding space 2.

The mechanical parking device 10 is a large-scale mechanical parking device that uses, for example, a horizontal circulation system, an elevator system, a vertical circulation system, or the like. The mechanical parking device 10 is configured to store a vehicle C in a specified shelf (vehicle compartment) with the vehicle C placed on a pallet P.

In this embodiment, the "user" refers to a person who enters and leaves the vehicle C in the mechanical parking device 10 and operates the operation device 1. However, the "user" is not limited to this, and may also be an operator such as a parking lot attendant who operates the operation panel 3 as part of his/her job, without entering or leaving the vehicle C.

The entrance door 21 is disposed in front of the boarding/exiting room 2. The entrance door 21 is opened, for example, by moving it upward, and closed, by moving it downward. Note that the configuration of the entrance door 21 is not limited to the configuration shown in FIG. 1. The entrance door 21 is opened and closed by the user operating the operation panel 3.

The control panel 3 is arranged, for example, on the wall surface 22 at the front of the boarding/disembarking room 2, located next to the entrance/exit door 21. The control panel 3 may also be installed independently at a position away from the wall surface 22. However, it is preferable that the control panel 3 is arranged within a range where the entrance/exit door 21 can be visually confirmed.

As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the operation panel 3 includes an authentication device 31, an input means 32, a display device 33, a human detection device 34, a speaker 35, and a control device 36.

The authentication device 31 is a device capable of authenticating a user. The input means 32 accepts input from the user regarding at least one of checking whether there is anyone in the boarding/deboarding compartment 2 and opening/closing the entrance door 21. The display device 33 displays text or images. The human detection device 34 detects a user present in front of the operation panel 3. The speaker 35 outputs sound.

The control device 36 is connected to the authentication device 31, the input means 32, the display device 33, the human detection device 34, and the speaker 35, and controls various operations of the operation panel 3. The control device 36 performs processing related to the entry and exit of the vehicle C, for example, based on a signal from the authentication device 31. The operation panel 3 may also be provided with an emergency stop button 37 that makes an emergency stop of the entry and exit operations, and a changeover switch 38 that switches between automatic and manual processing. The emergency stop button 37 and the changeover switch 38 are not shown in FIG. 3.

The control device 36 may be included in the operation device 1, rather than being included in the operation panel 3.

The authentication device 31 is, for example, a card reader capable of reading user-specific information without contacting an IC card held by the user. Note that the authentication device 31 is not limited to a card reader, and may be any device capable of reading user-specific information without contact, such as a device that performs short-range wireless communication, such as an RFID, a mobile terminal such as a smartphone, or a device such as a remote control. The user-specific information is, for example, identification information that is assigned to the user in advance. Note that "the authentication device 31 reads the user-specific information from the IC card held up by the user" can also be expressed as "the authentication device 31 accepts input from the user."

Furthermore, the authentication device 31 may be a biometric authentication device capable of recognizing the biometric information of the user (fingerprint, face, iris, etc.). From the viewpoint of preventing virus infection, it is preferable that the biometric authentication device is a non-contact type, but it may also be a contact type in which the user touches the device with a finger.

The input means 32 is, for example, a non-contact button, and may be an electrostatic sensor, an infrared sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, a microwave sensor, or the like that can detect a hand held over by a user. The input means 32 may also be a device that performs short-range wireless communication such as RFID, a mobile terminal such as a smartphone, a remote control, or the like. The input means 32 may be configured to display each state by the button's light color, turning off or on, etc., depending on the situation, such as an abnormal state in which it cannot be used due to a malfunction, an inoperative state in which no operation is accepted to prevent erroneous operation, or an operational state in which operation can be accepted. The input means 32 is also referred to as an input device. In addition, "the input means 32 detects a hand held over by the user" can also be expressed as "the input means 32 accepts input from the user."

The display device 33 is a monitor or display that displays messages and images related to the entry and exit of the vehicle C. For example, messages such as "Please hold your hand over the input means 32," "Please hold your IC card over the authentication device 31," and "Please check the safety of the interior of the warehouse" are displayed on the display device 33. The display device 33 may also be used as a surveillance monitor that outputs images or images captured by the interior camera 4. The display device 33 may be configured as an integral part of the housing of the operation panel 3, or may be configured separately from the housing of the operation panel 3.

The human detection device 34 is, for example, a human sensor that detects the presence of a user who is processing entry and exit. The human sensor is, for example, an infrared sensor, but may be another sensor such as an ultrasonic sensor.

The speaker 35 is, for example, a device that outputs the operation messages displayed on the display device 33 by voice.

The control device 36 processes operations related to the entry and exit of the vehicle C based on signals from each device arranged on the operation panel 3. The control device 36 is configured to be able to communicate with the mechanical parking device 10 and the devices arranged on the operation panel 3 via wired or wireless communication.

As shown in FIG. 4, the control device 36 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 361, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 362, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 363, a storage 364, an input/output device 365, an authentication device interface 366, an input means interface 367, a display device interface 368, a human detection device interface 369, and a speaker interface 370. Note that FIG. 4 does not show external interfaces connected to equipment disposed in the mechanical parking device 10.

FIG. 4 shows the hardware configuration of the control device 36 when the control device 36 is configured to be able to communicate via wires with the equipment arranged in the mechanical parking device 10 and the operation panel 3. However, the hardware configuration of the control device 36 is not limited to the configuration shown in FIG. 4. When the control device 36 is configured to be able to communicate wirelessly with at least some of the equipment arranged in the mechanical parking device 10 and the operation panel 3, the control device 36 further includes, for example, a transmission/reception circuit and an antenna. In this case, the CPU 361 transmits and receives signals to and from the target equipment via the transmission/reception circuit and antenna.

The CPU 361 executes a program stored in the ROM 362. The CPU 361 performs calculations on data loaded into the RAM 363 in accordance with the program, and performs overall control of each part of the control device 36. The CPU is also called a processor.

ROM 362 stores programs and the like executed by CPU 361. In this embodiment, ROM 362 stores at least a program for controlling the processing flow shown in Figures 5A and 5B, which will be described later. RAM 363 temporarily holds calculation data when CPU 361 executes a program stored in ROM 363. Note that ROM and RAM are also referred to as non-volatile memory and volatile memory, respectively.

Storage 364 stores control parameters necessary for the processing flows shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, data used in the processing flows shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, and the like. CPU 361 controls reading and writing of data from and to storage 364 in accordance with a program stored in ROM 363. Storage 364 is, for example, a hard disk drive (HDD) or a solid state drive (SSD).

The input/output device 365 accepts information input from outside the control device 36. The input/output device 365 outputs information to outside the control device 36.

The authentication device interface 366 is connected to the authentication device 31. The CPU 361 transmits and receives signals to and from the authentication device 31 via the authentication device interface 366. The input means interface 367 is connected to the input means 32. The CPU 361 transmits and receives signals to and from the input means 32 via the input means interface 367.

The display device interface 368 is connected to the display device 33. The CPU 361 transmits and receives signals to and from the display device 33 via the display device interface 368. The human detection device interface 369 is connected to the human detection device 34. The CPU 361 transmits and receives signals to and from the human detection device 34 via the human detection device interface 369. The speaker interface 370 is connected to the speaker 35. The CPU 361 transmits and receives signals to and from the speaker 35 via the speaker interface 370.

The operation device 1 is equipped with an alternative input means that allows the user to perform the same operations as the input means 32. The alternative input means is composed of at least one device, such as an authentication device 31, a display device 33 (e.g., a touch panel), a human detection device 34, a remote control that can communicate with the operation panel 3, and a mobile terminal that can communicate with the operation device 1. By providing the alternative input means, even in the event of an abnormality that makes the input means 32 unusable, the user can use the alternative input means to perform the same operations as the input means 32. The alternative input means is also referred to as an alternative input device.

The control device 36 performs various processes shown in Fig. 5A and Fig. 5B based on signals from each device arranged on the operation panel 3. Fig. 5A and Fig. 5B show the process flow when the vehicle C is parked in the mechanical parking device 10.

As shown in Figures 5A and 5B, the processing flow when entering the warehouse includes a user arrival step (step S1), a human detection step (step S2), a screen lighting step (step S3), a user authentication step (step S4), an alternative input necessity confirmation step (step S5), a normal input step A (steps S6 to S11), an operation authentication step (step S12), an entrance door closing step (step S13), an alternative input means activation step (step S20), an abnormality input step B (steps S21 to S26), and an alternative input means deactivation step (step 27).

The user arrival process (step S1) is a process in which a user who intends to park vehicle C in mechanical parking device 10 moves to the front of operation panel 3. Note that "user" also includes the operator described above.

The human detection process (step S2) is a process in which the human detection device 34 detects a user who has arrived in front of the operation panel 3. When the human detection device 34 detects a user who has arrived in front of the operation panel 3, it transmits a human detection signal to the control device 36.

The screen lighting process (step S3) is a process in which the control device 36 lights up the screen of the display device 33 when it receives a human detection signal from the human detection device 34. The control device 36 sends a lighting signal to the display device 33 to light up the screen of the display device 33. When the display device 33 receives a lighting signal from the control device 36, it lights up the screen and displays a message on the screen prompting the user to authenticate, such as, for example, "Please hold your IC card over the authentication device 31." When the operation panel 3 is in a standby state, the screen of the display device 33 is turned off.

In the screen lighting process, when the control device 36 sends a lighting signal to the display device 33, it may also send an audio output signal to the speaker 35, causing the message displayed on the display device 33 to be output as audio from the speaker 35. When the speaker 35 receives the audio output signal from the control device 36, it outputs a message prompting the user to authenticate, such as, for example, "Please hold your IC card over the authentication device 31."

The user authentication process (step S4) is a process in which the authentication device 31 authenticates the user. Specifically, when the user holds an IC card over the authentication device 31, the authentication device 31 reads the user's unique information from the IC card, and if it determines that this is the first reading, it refers to a pre-registered user database to authenticate the user. Note that "user authentication" also includes the authentication of the handler described above. When the authentication device 31 authenticates the user, it transmits an authentication signal to the control device 36.

In addition, the control device 36 may authenticate the user instead of the authentication device 31. In this case, the authentication device 31 transmits the user-specific information read from the IC card to the control device 36. When the control device 36 receives the user-specific information, it refers to a pre-registered user database and authenticates the user.

The alternative input necessity confirmation step (step S5) is a step in which, when the control device 36 receives an authentication signal from the authentication device 31, it determines whether the input means 32 is in an unusable state or not, i.e., whether to activate an alternative input means or not. For example, if the input means 32 is a non-contact button using an electrostatic sensor, the electrostatic sensor may not respond or may always respond due to freezing or dirt on the surface.

Specifically, when the control device 36 receives an authentication signal from the authentication device 31, it transmits a detection start signal to the input means 32. When the input means 32 receives the detection start signal from the control device 36, it judges whether or not its own device is in a state in which it can be operated by the user. When the input means 32 judges that its own device is not in a state in which it can be operated by the user (YES in step S5), it transmits a response signal to the control device 36 indicating that the input means 32 is not in a state in which it can be operated. On the other hand, when the input means 32 judges that its own device is in a state in which it can be operated by the user (NO in step S5), it transmits a response signal to the control device 36 indicating that the input means 32 is in a state in which it can be operated. For example, when the input means 32 judges that its own device is not in a state in which it can be operated by the user, it includes a bit value of "0" in the response signal as usability information. When the input means 32 judges that its own device is in a state in which it can be operated by the user, it includes a bit value of "1" in the response signal as usability information.

If the input means 32 is a capacitive sensor, the input means 32, for example, refers to the most recent operation history and determines that the device is not in a state where it can be operated by the user if the capacitive sensor remains unresponsive for a predetermined period of time or if the capacitive sensor remains responsive. Specifically, the input means 32 determines that the device is not in a state where it can be operated by the user if the input means 32 has not received an ON signal from the capacitive sensor for a predetermined period of time or if the input means 32 has received an ON signal from the capacitive sensor.

On the other hand, the input means 32 refers to the most recent operation history and determines that the device is in a state where it can be operated by the user if the state in which the electrostatic sensor is not responding has ended within a predetermined period of time, or if the state in which the electrostatic sensor is responding has ended within a predetermined period of time. Specifically, the input means 32 determines that the device is in a state where it can be operated by the user if the state in which it is not receiving an ON signal from the electrostatic sensor has ended within a predetermined period of time, or if the state in which it is receiving an ON signal from the electrostatic sensor has ended.

When the control device 36 receives a response signal from the input means 32 indicating that the input means 32 is not in an operable state, it determines that the input means 32 cannot be used normally and transitions to an alternative input means activation step (step S20) in which an alternative input means is activated. On the other hand, when the control device 36 receives a response signal from the input means 32 indicating that the input means 32 is in an operable state, it determines that the input means 32 can be used normally and transitions to normal input step A (steps S6 to S11).

The normal input process A includes an operation start confirmation process (step S6), a machine operation start process (step S7), an entrance door opening process (step S8), a warehousing process (step S9), an unmanned confirmation process (step S10), and an entrance door closing operation process (step S11).

The operation start confirmation process (step S6) is a process in which the control device 36 has the user confirm that they want to start the entry process before sending a parking entry process start signal to the mechanical parking device 10. Specifically, the control device 36 sends a message display signal to the display device 33 to display a message urging the user to hold their IC card over the authentication device 31 when starting the entry process.

When the display device 33 receives a message display signal from the control device 36, it displays a message on the screen such as, for example, "Please hold your IC card over the authentication device 31 again." When the user wants to start the warehousing process, he or she holds the IC card over the authentication device 31. When the user holds the IC card over the authentication device 31, the authentication device 31 reads the user's unique information from the IC card, and if it determines that this is the second or subsequent reading, it outputs an operation start confirmation signal including the user's unique information to the control device 36.

In the operation start confirmation process (step S6), when the control device 36 sends a message display signal to the display device 33, it may also send an audio output signal to the speaker 35, causing the message displayed on the display device 33 to be output by voice from the speaker 35. When the speaker 35 receives the audio output signal from the control device 36, it outputs a message such as, for example, "Please hold your IC card over the authentication device 31 again."

The machine operation start process (step S7) is a process in which, upon receiving an operation start confirmation signal from the authentication device 31 after sending a message display signal to the display device 33, the control device 36 sends a parking process start signal to the mechanical parking device 10, causing the mechanical parking device 10 to transport a pallet P for storing the vehicle C in a specified shelf (vehicle compartment) to the boarding and disembarking compartment 2. In addition, in the machine operation start process (step S7), upon receiving the operation start confirmation signal from the authentication device 31, the control device 36 stores user-specific information contained in the operation start confirmation signal.

While the mechanical parking device 10 is transporting the pallet P to the boarding/disembarking area 2, the control device 36 causes the display device 33 to display a message such as "Operating. Please wait a moment" on the screen, and also causes the speaker 35 to output a similar message.

If a vehicle compartment is assigned to each user in advance, the vehicle compartment assigned to the user is selected by authenticating the user in the operation start confirmation process (step S6). On the other hand, if a vehicle compartment is not assigned to each user in advance, an available vehicle compartment is selected.

The entrance/exit door opening process (step S8) is a process in which the mechanical parking device 10 opens the entrance/exit door 21 of the boarding/exit room 2 after transporting the pallet P to the boarding/exit room 2. While the entrance/exit door 21 is open, the mechanical parking device 10 causes the control device 36 to display a message such as "The entrance/exit door will be opened" on the screen of the display device 33, and also causes a similar message to be output from the speaker 35.

The entry process (step S9) is a process in which the user drives the vehicle C to move it onto the pallet P in the boarding/exiting area 2. When the mechanical parking device 10 detects that the entrance door 21 has been opened in the entrance door opening process (step S8), in the entry process (step S9), the device 36 causes the display device 33 to display a message encouraging the user to enter the vehicle C, and also causes the speaker 35 to output a similar message.

The unmanned confirmation process (step S10) is a process in which the user uses the input means 32 to confirm that there is no one left in the boarding/deboarding space 2. In the unmanned confirmation process, when the input means 32 accepts input from the user and outputs a first input detection signal to the control device 36, the control device 36 transmits an unmanned confirmation signal to the mechanical parking device 10, indicating that the user has confirmed that no one remains in the boarding/deboarding space 2.

Specifically, after the user has confirmed that no one remains in the boarding/disembarking area 2, the user places his/her hand over the input means 32, which outputs an input detection signal to the control device 36. When the control device 36 receives an input detection signal from the input means 32 and determines that this is the first input detection signal, it transmits an unattended confirmation signal to the mechanical parking device 10.

When the mechanical parking device 10 detects during the entrance process (step S9) that the vehicle C has moved onto the pallet P in the boarding/disembarking area 2, it causes the unmanned confirmation process (step S10) to display a message such as "Please make sure no one is left and place your hand over the input means 32" on the screen of the display device 33 via the control device 36, and also causes the speaker 35 to output a similar message.

If the input means 32 is a static sensor, for example, when the input means 32 receives an ON signal from the static sensor, it determines that the user has placed their hand over the device and outputs an unattended confirmation signal to the control device 36.

The entrance door closing operation process (step S11) is a process in which the user uses the input means 32 to perform an operation to close the entrance door 21. In the entrance door closing operation process, when the input means 32 accepts input from the user and outputs a second input detection signal to the control device 36, the control device 36 transmits a closing instruction signal to the mechanical parking device 10 indicating that the entrance door may be closed. Here, the operation to close the entrance door 21 is an act by the user to make the mechanical parking device 10 recognize that the entrance door 21 may be closed, or an act of allowing the transport device (not shown) to transport the pallet P.

Specifically, when a user places his/her hand over the input means 32 to close the entrance/exit door 21, the input means 32 outputs an input detection signal to the control device 36. When the control device 36 receives an input detection signal from the input means 32 and determines that this is the second input detection signal, it transmits a close command signal to the mechanical parking device 10.

When the mechanical parking device 10 receives an unattended confirmation signal from the control device 36 during the unattended confirmation process (step S10), it displays a message such as "If you wish to close the entrance door, please place your hand over the input means 32 again" on the screen of the display device 33 via the control device 36 during the entrance door closing operation process (step S11), and also outputs a similar message from the speaker 35.

If a certain period of time passes without any operation, there is a possibility that a third party may enter the boarding/exiting room 2. For this reason, in the entrance door closing operation process (step S11), if no operation to close the entrance door 21 is performed for about 10 seconds, the process may return to the unmanned confirmation process (step S10).

It is also possible to carry out one of the unmanned confirmation process (step S10) and the entrance door closing operation process (step S11) described above, and omit the other. When only the unmanned confirmation process (step S10) is carried out, the unmanned confirmation signal also serves as the closing instruction signal. When only the entrance door closing operation process (step S11) is carried out, the closing instruction signal also serves as the unmanned confirmation signal.

The operation authentication process (step S12) is a process for verifying whether the user who is completing the entry operation is the same person as the user who started the entry operation. The operation authentication process (step S12) prevents a third party from accidentally operating the mechanical parking device 10 and trapping the user inside the device during entry and exit.

Specifically, when a user holds an IC card over the authentication device 31, the authentication device 31 reads the user-specific information from the IC card, and if it determines that this is the second or subsequent reading, it outputs the user-specific information to the control device 36. The control device 36 compares the user-specific information input from the authentication device 31 in the operation authentication process (step S12) with the user-specific information stored in the operation start confirmation process (step S6). If the two pieces of user-specific information are identical, the control device 36 sends an operation authentication signal to the mechanical parking device 10. If the two pieces of user-specific information are different, the control device 36 does not send an operation authentication signal to the mechanical parking device 10.

In the operation authentication process (step S12), the authentication device 31 may confirm whether the user who ends the entry operation is the same person as the user who started the entry operation. In this case, in the operation start confirmation process (step S6), the authentication device 31 stores the user's unique information in its own device without including it in the operation start confirmation signal. If the two pieces of user-specific information are identical, the authentication device 31 transmits an operation authentication signal to the control device 36. Upon receiving the operation authentication signal, the control device 36 transmits the operation authentication signal to the mechanical parking device 10.

When the mechanical parking device 10 receives a closing instruction signal from the control device 36 during the entrance/exit door closing operation process (step 11), it displays a message such as "Please hold your IC card over the authentication device 31 again" on the screen of the display device 33 via the control device 36 during the operation authentication process (step S12), and also outputs a similar message from the speaker 35.

The entrance/exit door closing process (step S13) is a process in which the mechanical parking device 10 closes the entrance/exit door 21 when it receives an operation authentication signal from the control device 36. When the mechanical parking device 10 closes the entrance/exit door 21, the entry operation ends and the mechanical parking device 10 sends an entry completion signal to the control device 36.

A safety sensor (not shown) may be installed on the entrance door 21. In this case, if the safety sensor reacts while the entrance door 21 is being closed, the mechanical parking device 10 may sound an alarm from the speaker 35 via the control device 36, open the entrance door 21 again, and return to the unmanned confirmation process (step S10).

In the above-mentioned operation method, a reaction zone may be set in which, if the authentication device 31 detects an IC card for a certain period of time (approximately 0.5 to 2 seconds), it recognizes that an IC card has been held over the authentication device 31. Also, a dead zone may be set in which the authentication device 31 does not react for a certain period of time (approximately 0.5 to 2 seconds) after the IC card is removed from the authentication device 31.

Similarly, in the above-mentioned operation method, a reaction zone may be set in which the input means 32 recognizes that a hand is placed over the input means 32 when the input means 32 detects the user's hand for a certain period of time (approximately 0.5 to 2 seconds). Also, a dead zone may be set in which the input means 32 does not react for a certain period of time (approximately 0.5 to 2 seconds) after the user's hand is removed from the input means 32.

As described above, if the control device 36 determines in the alternative input necessity confirmation step (step S5) that the input means 32 cannot be used normally, the process proceeds to the alternative input means activation step (step S20). The alternative input means activation step (step S20) is a step in which the control device 36 activates the alternative input means when the input means 32 cannot be used normally.

In this embodiment, in the alternative input means activation process, the control device 36 transmits an activation signal to the authentication device 31 to activate the operation of the authentication device 31 as an alternative input means. After receiving the activation signal from the control device 36, the authentication device 31 counts and outputs an input detection signal to the control device 36 when reading the IC card for the second or subsequent time.

If the control device 36 determines that the input means 32 cannot be used normally, it automatically switches the means for checking the unmanned status of the boarding/deboarding compartment 2 and opening/closing the entrance/exit door 21 from the input means 32 to an alternative input means. Note that if the control device 36 determines that the input means 32 cannot be used normally, it may take action such as contacting a service center or calling an attendant. In this case, switching from the input means 32 to the alternative input means is performed manually.

The abnormality input process B is a process for performing the same operations as the input means 32 using an alternative input means when an abnormality occurs and the input means 32 cannot be used. Specifically, the abnormality input process B includes an operation start confirmation process (step S21), a machine operation start process (step S22), an entrance door opening process (step S23), a warehousing process (step S24), an unmanned confirmation process (step S25), and an entrance door closing operation process (step S26).

The operation start confirmation process (step S21), machine operation start process (step S22), entrance door opening process (step S23), and storage process (step S24) in the abnormality input process B are the same as the operation start confirmation process (step S6), machine operation start process (step S7), entrance door opening process (step S8), and storage process (step S9) in the normality input process A, so detailed explanations will be omitted.

The unmanned confirmation process (step S25) is a process in which the user uses the authentication device 31 to confirm that no one is left in the boarding/deboarding space 2. In the unmanned confirmation process, the authentication device 31 accepts input from the user, counts from when it receives an activation signal from the control device 36, and when it determines that this is the second or subsequent IC card reading, it outputs a first input detection signal to the control device 36. When the first input detection signal is input, the control device 36 transmits an unmanned confirmation signal to the mechanical parking device 10, indicating that the user has confirmed that no one remains in the boarding/deboarding space 2.

Specifically, after the user confirms that no one remains in the boarding/disembarking area 2, the user holds his/her IC card over the authentication device 31, which outputs an input detection signal to the control device 36. When the control device 36 receives an input detection signal from the authentication device 31 and determines that this is the first input detection signal, it transmits an unattended confirmation signal to the mechanical parking device 10.

When the mechanical parking device 10 detects during the entrance process (step S24) that the vehicle C has moved onto the pallet P in the boarding/disembarking area 2, it causes the unmanned confirmation process (step S25) to display a message such as "Please make sure no one is left and hold your IC card over the authentication device 31" on the screen of the display device 33 via the control device 36, and also outputs a similar message from the speaker 35.

The entrance door closing operation process (step S26) is a process in which the user uses the authentication device 31 to perform an operation to close the entrance door 21. In the entrance door closing operation process, the authentication device 31 accepts input from the user, counts from when it receives an activation signal from the control device 36, and when it determines that this is the second or subsequent IC card reading, it outputs a second input detection signal to the control device 36. When the second input detection signal is input, the control device 36 transmits a closing instruction signal to the mechanical parking device 10, indicating that the entrance door may be closed.

Specifically, when a user holds an IC card over the authentication device 31 to close the entrance door 21, the authentication device 31 outputs an input detection signal to the control device 36. When the control device 36 receives an input detection signal from the authentication device 31 and determines that this is the second input detection signal, it transmits a close instruction signal to the mechanical parking device 10.

When the mechanical parking device 10 receives an unattended confirmation signal from the control device 36 in the unattended confirmation process (step S25), it causes the control device 36 to display a message such as "If you wish to close the entrance door, please hold your IC card over the authentication device 31" on the screen of the display device 33 in the entrance door closing operation process (step S26), and also causes the speaker 35 to output a similar message.

When abnormality input process B is completed, the process proceeds to the alternative input means stopping process (step S27), where operation using the alternative input means is terminated, and the process proceeds to the operation authentication process (step S12) described above. In the alternative input means stopping process, the control device 36 sends a stop signal to the authentication device 31 to stop operation of the authentication device 31 as an alternative input means. When the authentication device 31 receives the stop signal from the control device 36, it stops outputting the input detection signal.

Here, referring to FIG. 6, we will explain an example of the screen display of the display device 33 when the alternative input means is the authentication device 31.

In the alternative input means activation process (step S20), if the means for checking whether there is anyone in the boarding/deboarding room 2 and for opening and closing the entrance/exit door 21 is switched from the input means 32 to the alternative input means (authentication device 31), the entry operation is carried out by holding an IC card over the authentication device 31 instead of holding a hand over the input means 32.

For example, in the operation start confirmation process (step S25), as shown in FIG. 6, text and images such as "Starting. Please hold your card over (the mark on the authentication device 31)" are displayed on the screen of the display device 33. In this way, by displaying a message on the screen of the display device 33 instructing the user to operate using the alternative input means (authentication device 31), the user can be prompted to operate using the alternative input means, improving user convenience when operation is not possible using the input means 32.

Although not shown, if the alternative input means is not activated, text and an image such as "Starting. Please hold your hand over (the mark on the input means 32)" will be displayed on the screen of the display device 33.

According to the operating method and operating device 1 of the mechanical parking device 10 of this embodiment, in addition to the input means 32 used under normal circumstances, an alternative input means capable of inputting the same operations is provided, so that the user can continue to operate the mechanical parking device 10 even in abnormal circumstances when the input means 32 cannot be used.

(Modification of the first embodiment)
Next, a modified example of the present embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 7. In this modified example, a screen display example of the display device 33 in a case where the alternative input means is the touch panel 39 of the display device 33 will be described with reference to Fig. 7.

The touch panel 39 is embedded in a part of the screen of the display device 33. With this configuration, there is no need to provide a new input means in the operation panel 3 in addition to the authentication device 31 and the input means 32. Therefore, by simply replacing the conventional display device with the display device 33 equipped with the touch panel 39, it is possible to arrange an alternative input means while maintaining the same appearance as the conventional operation panel.

In this case, the portion of the screen of the display device 33 in which the touch panel 39 is embedded is also used as a surveillance monitor, etc. For this reason, it is preferable not to display a message such as the presence of the touch panel 39 as an alternative input means in the portion in which the touch panel 39 is embedded. The fact that part of the screen of the display device 33 is made up of the touch panel 39 and that the touch panel 39 can be used as an alternative input means when the input means 32 cannot be used may be explained in the instruction manual, or may be explained via the service center or a staff member.

In the above-mentioned screen display examples according to the first embodiment and the modified example of the first embodiment, the alternative input means is the authentication device 31 or the touch panel 39, but is not limited to these. For example, the alternative input means may be a human detection device 34, a remote control capable of communicating with the operation panel 3, or a mobile terminal capable of communicating with the operation device 1, etc.

Second Embodiment
Next, the operation method of the mechanical parking device 10 and the operation device 1 according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 8A to 9. In Figures 8A and 8B, the same steps as those in the operation method according to the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and will not be described.

In the operating method shown in Figures 8A and 8B, the alternative input necessity confirmation step (step S5) is omitted from the operating method shown in Figures 5A and 5B. Therefore, when the user authentication step (step S4) is completed, the alternative input means is always activated. In other words, regardless of the usage state of the input means 32, the control device 36 activates the alternative input means in the background. In this way, the alternative input means is configured to be able to input simultaneously with the input means 32.

With this configuration, two input systems can be used at all times, and if the input means 32 becomes unavailable or unresponsive, the user can continue the storage operation using the alternative input means. Furthermore, regardless of whether the input means 32 is broken, the user can select the easier-to-use input means between the input means 32 and the alternative input means to proceed with the storage operation.

Now, referring to FIG. 9, an example of a screen display on the display device 33 when the alternative input means is the authentication device 31 will be described. Note that in the abnormality input process B of this embodiment, the authentication device 31 is set as the alternative input means.

In this embodiment, in addition to holding a hand over the input means 32, the entry operation can also be performed by holding an IC card over the alternative input means (authentication device 31).

For example, as shown in FIG. 9, after the user authentication process (step S4), the screen of the display device 33 displays text and an image such as "Starting. Hold your hand over (the mark on the input means 32) or hold your card over (the mark on the authentication device 31)." This display informs the user that they can operate either the input means 32 or the alternative input means (the authentication device 31).

Third Embodiment
Next, an operation method of the mechanical parking device 10 and an operation device 1 according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 10 and 11. In this embodiment, the alternative input means is composed of an automatic unmanned confirmation device 41. In the alternative input means activation step (step S20), the control device 36 activates the automatic unmanned confirmation device 41 as the alternative input means. For example, when the input means 32 does not accept an input from a user within a predetermined period of time, the control device 36 activates the automatic unmanned confirmation device 41 as the alternative input means.

When the automatic unmanned confirmation device 41 is activated by the control device 36, in the unmanned confirmation process (step S25), it automatically performs an unmanned confirmation of the boarding/exiting room 2 without receiving input from the user, and causes the mechanical parking device 10 to start closing the entrance/exit door 21. In this embodiment, the entrance/exit door closing operation process (step S26) is omitted, and the unmanned confirmation signal also serves as the closing instruction signal.

As shown in FIG. 10, the operation panel 3 further includes an automatic unmanned confirmation device 41. Also, as shown in FIG. 11, in the control device 36, the CPU 361 transmits and receives signals to and from the automatic unmanned confirmation device 41 via an automatic unmanned confirmation device interface 371.

As an example, the automatic unmanned confirmation device 41 is equipped with a three-dimensional laser radar installed in the boarding/disembarking compartment 2. In this case, when the control device 36 activates the automatic unmanned confirmation device 41 as the alternative input means in the alternative input means activation process (step S20), in the unmanned confirmation process (step S25), the automatic unmanned confirmation device 41 uses the three-dimensional laser radar to determine whether or not a foreign object is present in the boarding/disembarking compartment 2. When the automatic unmanned confirmation device 41 determines that no foreign object is present in the boarding/disembarking compartment 2, it outputs an authorization signal to the control device 36.

As another example, the automatic unmanned confirmation device 41 includes a camera installed in the boarding/deboarding compartment 2. In this case, when the control device 36 activates the automatic unmanned confirmation device 41 as an alternative input means in the alternative input means activation step (step S20), in the unmanned confirmation step (step S25), the automatic unmanned confirmation device 41 uses the camera to obtain video of the inside of the boarding/deboarding compartment 2, analyzes the obtained video using machine learning, and determines whether or not there is anyone remaining in the boarding/deboarding compartment 2. When the automatic unmanned confirmation device 41 determines that there is no one remaining in the boarding/deboarding compartment 2, it outputs an authorization signal to the control device 36.

When the control device 36 receives a permission signal from the automatic unmanned confirmation device 41, it transmits an unmanned confirmation signal to the mechanical parking device 10. When the mechanical parking device 10 receives the unmanned confirmation signal in the unmanned confirmation process (step S25) and also receives an operation authentication signal in the operation authentication process (step S12), it closes the entrance door 21 in the entrance door closing process (step S13).

When the mechanical parking device 10 detects during the entrance process (step S24) that the vehicle C has moved onto the pallet P in the boarding/disembarking area 2, it causes the unmanned confirmation process (step S25) to display a message such as "Automatic unmanned confirmation is in progress. Please leave the parking lot" on the screen of the display device 33 via the control device 36, and also causes the speaker 35 to output a similar message.

When the mechanical parking device 10 receives an operation authentication signal in the operation authentication process (step S12), it causes the control device 36 to display a message such as "The door will close automatically. Please be careful" on the screen of the display device 33 and output a similar message from the speaker 35 in the entrance/exit door closing process (step S13). In this way, if there is no input from the user, such as a signal to emergency stop the parking operation, for a certain period of time after the mechanical parking device 10 displays a message on the screen of the display device 33 in the unmanned confirmation process (step S25), it causes the control device 36 to display a message such as "The door will close automatically. Please be careful" on the screen of the display device 33 and output a similar message from the speaker 35.

The mechanical parking device 10 may also cause devices such as the display device 33 to emit light while a message is being displayed on the screen of the display device 33 via the control device 36. This makes it possible to more effectively inform the user that an automatic unmanned check is being performed.

In addition, in this embodiment, in cases where the operation button is broken or unresponsive, or where the user is unable to use the input means properly due to a misunderstanding or carelessness on the part of the user, and is unable to complete the closing of the entrance door 21, the user can use the automatic unmanned confirmation device 41 as an alternative input means. Even in these cases, the alternative input means can automatically perform an unmanned confirmation of the boarding/alighting area 2 on behalf of the user, and cause the mechanical parking device 10 to start closing the entrance door 21.

In the first to third embodiments described above, the operation method when entering vehicle C has been explained, but the operation method when leaving vehicle C is substantially the same as the operation method when entering vehicle C, so a detailed explanation will be omitted.

(Other Modifications)
In the first and second embodiments described above, the alternative input means may include a communication device. In this case, for example, when the alternative input means is unable to detect a user's input within a predetermined period, i.e., when it does not accept an input from the user within a predetermined period, it determines that the user is in a situation where the user cannot input, and automatically contacts the service center using the communication device. When the service center receives the contact from the alternative input means, it uses the alternative input means to perform the above-mentioned user's operation on the service center side. In this way, the alternative input means can perform the user's operation even in a situation where the user is unable to input. Note that the alternative input means may automatically contact the service center using the communication device when the input means 32 is unable to detect a user's input within a predetermined period, i.e., when it does not accept an input from the user within a predetermined period.

In the first and second embodiments described above, the alternative input means may include a biometric recognition device that accepts input from a user by recognizing biological characteristics specific to the user's body (such as voice, fingerprint, iris, face, user's movements, etc.). For example, if the biometric recognition device has a function for recognizing the user's voice input, i.e., a voice recognition function, the alternative input means can accept input from the user by recognizing the user's voice input using the biometric recognition device.

In addition, if the biometric recognition device is equipped with devices such as a sensor and a camera and has a function of detecting the user's movements based on input from the devices, the alternative input means can use the biometric recognition device to detect specific movements of the user's hand, specific movements of the user's body, etc., and thereby accept input from the user.

In the first and second embodiments described above, the alternative input means may include a reading device. In this case, the alternative input means can accept input from a user by using the reading device to read information displayed on an external device. Examples of the external device include a mobile terminal such as a smartphone, a display installed in a parking lot, or a display device such as a touch panel. The information displayed on the external device is, for example, a one-dimensional barcode, a two-dimensional barcode, etc.

For example, a user launches application software for a parking lot on a mobile device such as a smartphone. When the application software for the parking lot is launched, the mobile device receives instructions for generating information from the control device 36 via the server of the application software for the parking lot. The mobile device generates and displays information (e.g., a one-dimensional barcode or a two-dimensional barcode) based on the received instructions. The user causes the reading device of the alternative input means to read the information displayed on the mobile device. In this way, the alternative input means accepts input from the user. In this way, the information is displayed on the mobile device held by the user and read by the alternative input means.

In the first and second embodiments described above, the alternative input means may be composed of a mobile terminal such as a smartphone equipped with a reading device. In this case, when using a mobile terminal as the alternative input means, the user launches the parking lot application software. When the user launches the parking lot application software, the user uses the reading device of the alternative input means to cause the alternative input means to read information (e.g., one-dimensional barcode or two-dimensional barcode) displayed on a display device such as a display or touch panel installed in the parking lot, etc. In other words, when the parking lot application software is launched, the alternative input means uses the reading device to read the information and accepts input from the user. The alternative input means transmits the information to the server of the parking lot application software. When the server receives the information, it transmits an input detection signal to the control device 36. In this way, the information is displayed on a display device installed in the parking lot, etc., and is read by the alternative input means.

In the first and second embodiments described above, the operation panel and the alternative input means may be configured to accept user operations. The alternative input means may also be configured to be capable of accepting user inputs using a plurality of input methods. In this case, the alternative input means accepts user inputs using one of the plurality of input methods through user operation. For example, in a state in which the alternative input means is configured to accept user inputs using an IC card held by the user, if the user loses the IC card, the input method is switched through user operation to accept user inputs using at least one of the following: voice input by the user, hand movement by the user, body movement by the user, reading of information displayed on an external device, input of an authentication number on a display or touch panel installed in a parking lot, etc. In this case, the alternative input means includes at least one of a voice recognition device, a motion detection device, a reading device, etc. In this way, the alternative input means has a customization function so that the user can select the input method by himself/herself.

In the first embodiment described above, the input means 32 may be equipped with a detection device that detects that the input means 32 cannot be used normally. When the detection device detects dirt or freezing on the sensor surface, or a failure or malfunction of the input means, it determines that the input means 32 cannot be used normally. For example, the detection device detects dirt or freezing on the sensor surface when the sensor continues to react at all times. When the detection device detects that the input means 32 cannot be used normally, the input means 32 transmits a detection signal to the control device 36. When the control device 36 receives the detection signal, it activates an alternative input means and automatically switches the means for checking whether there is an occupant in the boarding/deboarding room 2 and for opening and closing the entrance door 21 from the input means 32 to the alternative input means.

Note that the alternative input means and the devices that the alternative input means are provided with, as in the control device 36, include a CPU, ROM, RAM, storage, etc., as described in the first to third embodiments, the modified example of the first embodiment, and other modified examples.

The present invention is not limited to the above-described first to third embodiments, the modified version of the first embodiment, and other modified versions, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the invention, such as arranging two or more types of alternative input means on the operation panel 3. In addition, the above-described first to third embodiments, the modified version of the first embodiment, and other modified versions may be used in appropriate combinations.

Claims (15)

1. A method for operating a mechanical parking device equipped with an operation panel that allows a user to operate the opening and closing of an entrance door of a boarding/deboarding room for entering or leaving a vehicle, comprising:
   The operation panel includes an input means,
   The input means receives an input from the user regarding at least one of an unmanned check of the boarding/deboarding room and an opening/closing operation of the entrance door,
   A method for operating a mechanical parking device, in which, when the input means cannot be used normally, an alternative input means accepts input from the user regarding at least one of checking whether the boarding/exiting compartment is unoccupied and opening/closing the entrance/exit door.
2. The operation panel further includes an authentication device,
   The authentication device authenticates the user,
   A method for operating a mechanical parking device as described in claim 1, wherein a control device that controls the input means and the alternative input means determines whether to activate the alternative input means based on the usage status of the input means.
3. The method of operating a mechanical parking device according to claim 1, in which a control device that controls the input means and the alternative input means always activates the alternative input means regardless of the use state of the input means.
4. an operation panel including an input means for receiving an input from the user regarding at least one of unmanned confirmation of the boarding/deboarding room and the opening/closing operation of the entrance/exit door;
   an alternative input means for receiving an input from the user in at least one of an unmanned check of the boarding/deboarding compartment and an opening/closing operation of the entrance door when the input means cannot be used normally;
   An operating device for a mechanical parking device comprising:
5. The operating device for a mechanical parking device according to claim 4, wherein the alternative input means is any one of an authentication device arranged on the operating panel, a touch panel arranged on the operating panel, a human detection device arranged on the operating panel, a remote control capable of communicating with the operating panel, and a mobile terminal capable of communicating with the operating device.
6. The operating device for a mechanical parking device according to claim 4, wherein the alternative input means is configured to be automatically or manually switchable so as to accept input from the user when the input means cannot be used normally.
7. The operating device for a mechanical parking device according to claim 4, wherein the alternative input means is configured to be capable of inputting simultaneously with the input means.
8. the alternative input means comprises a communication device;
   The operating device for a mechanical parking device according to claim 4, wherein the alternative input means contacts a service center using the communication device if no input is received from the user within a predetermined period of time.
9. the alternative input means comprises a biometric recognition device;
   The operating device for a mechanical parking device as described in claim 4, wherein the alternative input means accepts input from the user by recognizing the user's voice or movement using the biometric recognition device.
10. the alternative input means comprises a reading device;
    The operating device for a mechanical parking device as described in claim 4, wherein the alternative input means accepts input from the user by reading information displayed on an external device using the reading device.
11. the alternative input means is configured to be capable of accepting input from a user using a plurality of input methods;
    The operating device for a mechanical parking device as described in claim 4, wherein the alternative input means accepts input from the user using one of the multiple input methods in response to operation by the user.
12. The operation panel further includes a display device for displaying characters or images,
    The operating device for a mechanical parking device as described in claim 4, wherein the display device displays that operation is to be performed using the alternative input means.
13. The operation panel further includes a display device for displaying characters or images,
    The operating device for a mechanical parking device as described in claim 4, wherein the alternative input means is embedded in the display device.
14. A control device for controlling the input means and the alternative input means,
    The input means includes a detection device,
    When the detection device detects that the input device cannot be used normally, the input device transmits a detection signal to the control device,
    The operating device for a mechanical parking device as described in claim 6, wherein the control device, when receiving the detection signal, activates the alternative input means to accept input from the user.
15. an operation panel including an input means for receiving an input from the user regarding at least one of unmanned confirmation of the boarding/deboarding room and the opening/closing operation of the entrance/exit door;
    An alternative input means for automatically checking the unoccupied state of the boarding/alighting room and causing the mechanical parking device to start the opening/closing operation of the entrance/exit door when the input means cannot be used normally;
    An operating device for a mechanical parking device comprising:

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