WO2007037948A2

WO2007037948A2 - Door assembly having a flexible detector member and an associated method

Info

Publication number: WO2007037948A2
Application number: PCT/US2006/035140
Authority: WO
Inventors: Teppei Uchida; Takero Kobari; Hideki Itoh; Jiro Kashima; Hideki Miyazawa; Hideki Arai; Hideki Nakano
Original assignee: Otis Elevator Company
Priority date: 2005-09-28
Filing date: 2006-09-12
Publication date: 2007-04-05
Also published as: JP5156633B2; WO2007037948A3; JP2009509894A

Abstract

A door assembly (20) includes a detector arrangement having a flexible member (26). When an object contacts the flexible member (26) causing at least a localized deflection of the flexible member, a sensor provides an indication to a controller (60) that controls automated movement of a door panel (24). Various door arrangements and sensor configurations are disclosed.

Description

DOOR ASSEMBLY HAVING A FLEXIBLE DETECTOR MEMBER AND AN ASSOCIATED METHOD

1. Field of the Invention

[oooi] This invention generally relates to an arrangement for detecting an object at an interface between an automatically moveable door and another surface.

2. Description of the Related Art [0002] There are various automated door arrangements used in various contexts. In some instances, the automated door slides in a direction parallel to the door panel between open and closed positions. This type of arrangement is commonly used for providing access to an elevator car.

[0003] Whenever an automated door moves toward a position where an edge of the door approaches another structural member in a closed position, it is possible for an object to get caught between the door and the other structural member. Various arrangements have been proposed to avoid such a situation.

[ooo4] Various types of door safety devices have been proposed for decelerating or stopping a sliding door to prevent catching a foreign object if the foreign object is caught in the sliding door receptacle during the door opening operation. For example, Japanese Kokai Patent Application No. HEI 9[1997]-77440 discloses a panel member that can rock freely and is used to close the gap between the vertical frame on the side of the sliding door receptacle of the doorway frame and the outer side surface of the sliding door. At the same time, a micro-switch is set to detect rocking of the panel member. During a door opening operation, if a foreign object is caught in the sliding door receptacle, the panel is pressed by the foreign object and rocks. This motion is detected by the micro-switch so that the door opening operation can be stopped to prevent further catching of the object.

[0005] Japanese Kokai Patent Application No. 2004-189431 describes a flexible piezoelectric sensor that is set in a vertical direction for contacting foreign objects on a sliding door. When an object contacts a sliding door, the piezoelectric sensor is deformed and provides an output signal. One drawback associated with such an arrangement is that it is necessary to set the piezoelectric sensor over the entire region of detection of such an object. This does not provide an economical solution. [0006] A drawback associated with the rocking panel is that when a foreign object presses on it in a door opening direction, friction develops between the foreign object and the rocking panel. The load on the foreign object may increase, which is undesirable. [0007] In other types of devices for elevator doors, an irradiating light emitted from a light projector passes through in a vertical direction near the inlet of the door slot. When the irradiating light of such a photoelectric switch is blocked, the presence of a foreign object near the inlet of the doors is detected. Control can then be performed to stop the door-opening operation to prevent trapping an object in the door slot.

[0008] Japanese Kokai Patent Application No. 2002-265175 discloses a light projector and a light receiver that are set facing each other on the lower portion of the vertical and upper members of the doorframe. Foreign objects that approach the inlet of the door slot are detected. In Japanese Kokai Patent Application No. SHO 63[1988]-66084, a recess is set along the vertical direction of the door closing direction side end portion of the surface of the vertical frame facing the door. A light projector and light receiver of a photoelectric switch are set on the upper and lower ends of the recess to detect foreign objects that enter the door slot. In Japanese Kokai Patent Application No. HPI ll[1999]-310375, a light projector and a light receiver are set on the upper and lower sides of the door slot to detect foreign objects invading the slot.

[0009] In all of such arrangements, the irradiating light of the photoelectric switch passes through the space where the passengers are present in the door opening. Therefore, faulty operation may take place because of external disturbances such as sunlight or light from a light source other than the light projector. Additionally, dust and debris can interfere with the operating efficiency. In particular, when visible light is used as the irradiating light for the photoelectric switch, the irradiating light may enter the eyes of passengers, which is typically undesirable.

[00010] In some such arrangements, it is possible for an object approaching the vertical frame to be detected even if there is no chance that it would actually be trapped. Additionally, some such arrangements can only detect an object that is already trapped and, therefore, do not provide preventing an object from becoming trapped in the door guard. [00011] It would be desirable to provide an improved arrangement for detecting when an object may be in a position to be caught by a door that is automatically moving. It would be beneficial to provide an arrangement that can detect the potential for an object being caught when a door is automatically moving toward a closed position, toward an open position or both. This invention addresses those needs.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[oooi2] An exemplary door assembly includes a door panel that is automatically moveable between open and closed positions. A flexible member is positioned near an interface between the door and another surface. The flexible member becomes at least partially deflected responsive to contact with an object near the interface. A sensor detects the deflection of the flexible member and provides an indication of the presence of the object near the interface.

[00013] An exemplary method of detecting an object at an interface between the door panel and another structure includes using a flexible member near the interface and using a sensor for detecting a deflection of at least a portion of the flexible member responsive to contact between the flexible member and an object.

An indication of the contact is provided as a detection of an object.

[00014] The various features and advantages of this invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description. The drawings that accompany the detailed description can be briefly described as follows.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[00015] Figure 1 diagrammatically illustrates an example door assembly designed according to an embodiment of this invention.

[00016] Figure 2 schematically illustrates an end view of one example door assembly arrangement.

[00017] Figure 3 schematically illustrates an end view of another example door assembly arrangement. [00018] Figure 4 diagrammatically illustrates selected portions of an example detector arrangement designed according to an embodiment of this invention.

[00019] Figure 5 diagrammatically illustrates another example detector arrangement. [00020] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional illustration of the embodiment of Figure 5 taken along the lines X-X in Figure 1.

[00021] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional illustration similar to Figure 6 showing another embodiment of a flexible member as part of a detector arrangement in one embodiment of this invention.

[00022] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional illustration showing the embodiment of Figure 7 in another condition.

[00023] Figure 9 shows the embodiment of Figure 7 in another condition. [00024] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional illustration showing selected portions of another example detector arrangement.

[00025] Figure 11 schematically illustrates selected portions of another example door assembly.

[00026] Figure 12 schematically illustrates selected portions of another example door assembly.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[00027] Disclosed examples include a flexible member at an interface between an automatically moveable door and another surface. The flexible member deflects responsive to contact with an object approaching the interface. The deflection can be detected to provide an indication regarding the presence of the object at the interface. Automatic movement of a door can be controlled responsive to the detection to prevent an object from being caught between the door and the other surface or to allow for an object to be more easily removed from the spacing between the door and the other surface if the object has become caught. The disclosed examples are useful in a variety of situations where an automatically moveable door moves relative to another surface in a manner such that it may be possible for an object to become caught at the interface between the door and the other surface. For purposes of discussion, elevator doors are used as example applications of the door assembly designed according to this invention. [00028] Figure 1 diagrammatically illustrates portions of a door assembly 20 including door frame members 22 and 23. Door panels 24 are automatically moveable between an open position allowing passage through an opening established by the door frame members 22 and 23 and a closed position where the door panels 24 block off the opening. [00029] In the example of Figure 1, a flexible member 26 is positioned near an interface 28 between each door panel 24 and an adjacent surface on the corresponding door frame member 22. In one example, the flexible member is between the door panel and the adjacent surface. In another example, the flexible member is outside of the spacing between them. Various positions within the vicinity of the interface where the flexible member will encounter an object approaching the interface.

[00030] In the illustration, only one of the flexible members 26 is visible because of the perspective of the view. As can be appreciated from the drawing, the flexible member 26 extends along the length of a substantial portion or the entire interface 28. In some examples, the flexible member 26 is positioned within the interface to be out of sight and not visible to an individual.

[00031] As the door panels 24 slide relative to the frame members 22 toward an open position, the possibility exists for an object to become caught within the spacing between the door panels 24 and the adjacent surfaces of the door frame member 22 at the interface 28. The flexible members 26 deflect responsive to contact with such an object approaching the interface 28. The deflection of the flexible member 26 provides an indication of the presence of such an object. That indication can be used by a controller 60 to control the operation of an automated door mover 61.

[00032] In one example, the controller 60 causes the door panels 24 to stop when an object is detected as a result of deflection of the flexible member 26 during door movement. In one example, the controller 60 causes the door panels 24 to at least temporarily stop and then moves the door panels in a particular manner to facilitate the object being removed from the interface 28. One example includes temporarily stopping the door panels 24 followed by continuing to move them in an opening direction but at a slower speed than would otherwise be used. Another example includes reversing the direction of the doors at least once prior to continuing to move them in an opening direction.

[00033] The flexible members 26 may be positioned in several strategic locations, depending on the particular door assembly configuration. [00034] Figure 2 schematically illustrates an example door assembly 20 that is useful for an elevator application. One set of door panels 24 is associated with a landing side of a hoistway entrance while another set of the door panels 24 are the car doors on an elevator car. In this example, flexible members 26 are located at each interface 28 between a moveable door panel 24 and an adjacent surface on the corresponding frame member 22.

[00035] Figure 3 schematically shows another example arrangement that includes two moving door panels 24. In this example, the left most (according to the drawing) door panels 24 are commonly referred to as high speed moving door panels while the door panels 24 more to the right (according to the drawing) are commonly referred to as low speed door panels. In such an example, there is relative movement between the low speed door panels 24 and the adjacent surfaces of the door frame members 22. Accordingly, flexible members 26 are provided at the interfaces 28 between the low speed door panels 24 and the door frame members 22. There is also relative movement between the high speed door panels 24 and the low speed door panels 24. The illustrated example includes flexible members 26 at each interface 28 between corresponding sets of door panels 24.

[00036] Other positions for flexible members 26 and other door assembly configurations are possible. Those skilled in the art who have the benefit of this description will realize how best to arrange a door assembly to meet their particular needs.

[00037] The flexible member 26 may take a variety of forms. One example is shown in Figure 4 where the flexible member 26 comprises a flexible tube. Figure 4 shows a mounting assembly 30 for securing the body 32 of the flexible tube in a desired position at an interface 28. In this example, the body 32 of the flexible tube establishes a channel 34 within the body 32. In this example, the channel 34 extends along the entire length of the tube body 32.

[00038] Figure 4 includes a sensor 40 comprising a source of radiation 42. At least one beam 44 of radiation emanates from the source 42 and travels through the channel 34 in the tube body 32. A radiation detector 46 detects when the radiation beam 44 is incident onto the detector 46. The body 32 is flexible enough to at least partially deflect when contacted by an object such as a human finger. Deflection of the body 32 will interrupt the radiation beam 44 so that it is not being detected by the detector 46. Under these circumstances, the sensor 40 provides an indication to the controller 60 regarding the detection of an object at the corresponding interface 28. The controller 60 can then respond according to the needs of a particular situation. [00039] In one example, the type of radiation used comprises light. In such an example, the source of radiation 42 comprises a light source such as a laser or a light emitting diode. The detector 46 comprises a photo detector in one example.

[00040] There are several advantages associated with the type of example as shown in Figure 4. When a flexible tube is used as the flexible member 26, the tube body 32 provides a buffer at the corresponding interface 28. An object approaching the interface will contact the tube 32 before the object becomes caught in the spacing between the door panel 24 and the adjacent surface 22 in many example arrangements. This provides a tactile indication to an individual, for example, that an object such as the individual's finger should not proceed any further toward the interface 28. This provides the advantage of allowing an individual to pull an object away from the interface 28 before it becomes caught.

[00041] Additionally, a flexible tube such as that shown in the example of Figure 4 provides resiliency at the interface 28 so that any impact between the door panel 24, the adjacent surface of a door frame member 22, or both and the object will be cushioned because of the presence of the flexible member 26. Any impact on the object will be mitigated by the give of the flexible member 26. The flexibility of the flexible member 26 also makes it easier under most circumstances to remove an object that becomes caught in the spacing at the interface 28. [00042] Another advantage associated with a flexible tube such as that shown in Figure 4 is that it effectively houses the radiation beam 44. In many examples, light is used as the type of radiation for the sensor 40. A flexible tube in such an example provides a shield for the light to avoid interference from outside light sources. The flexible tube can also provide a shield to protect a light source or light detector such as a photo detector from becoming dirty because of dust or other contamination.

[00043] In the example of Figure 4, the detector 46 is housed within a housing portion 50A near one end of the door panel 24 and the radiation source 42 is housed within a housing portion 50B near an opposite end of the door panel 24. Although not specifically illustrated, the body 32 of the flexible tube may extend right up to or very close to the edges of the housing portions 50A and 5OB to provide maximum protection of the sensor components and maximum avoidance of interference by outside radiation (e.g., light) sources. [00044] Figure 5 schematically illustrates another example arrangement. In this example, only one housing 50 houses both of the radiation source 42 and the detector 46. A reflector 52 is provided at an opposite end of the assembly. In this example, the detector 46 detects a reflected beam 54 that is a result of the beam 44 emanating from the source 42 and reflecting off the reflector 52. In this example, any deflection of the tube body 32 into the path of either beam 44 or 54 will interrupt the ability for the detector 46 to detect the reflected beam 54. This provides an indication to the controller 60 regarding the detection of an object at the interface 28.

[00045] One advantage to the arrangement of Figure 5 is that the position of the source 42 and the detector 46 are both conveniently placed securely above the door so that they are out of the way from being potentially contacted by an individual or an object passing through the doorway. They are also less susceptible to dust or other contaminants especially when appropriately protected by the housing 50. Additionally, providing signal communication between the detector 46 and the controller 60 may be more convenient in an arrangement such as that illustrated in Figure 5.

[00046] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional illustration of the example embodiment of Figure 5 showing an example technique for mounting the flexible member 26 relative to the selected surface upon which it is supported. In this example, the mounting assembly 30 includes a frame member 62 that is secured by a fastener 64 to the selected surface, which in this example is a portion of a door frame member 22. A support plate 66 is received within the channel 34 in the tube body 32. In one example, the support plate 66 extends along a substantial portion of the length of the tube body 32. A connector plate 68 and the frame member 62 each include an opening for receiving a fastener 70 that secures the mounting plate 66 and, therefore, the flexible tube body 32 in a desired position. The illustrated example also includes a protective covering 72 that may provide a decorative exterior over the components shown in Figure 6. When a cover 72 is used, it preferably has sufficient flexibility to avoid interfering with deflection of the flexible member 26 responsive to contact with an object approaching the interface 28.

[00047] Another advantage to a flexible tube embodiment is that it provides the ability to reduce the gap or spacing at the interface 28. The gap size G exists between the example door panel 24 and the door frame member 22. By positioning the tube body 32 as shown in the illustration, a smaller gap size F exists at the interface 28 at the location where an object may potentially enter the spacing between the door panel 24 and the door frame member 22. Reducing the size of the gap provides additional protection against objects potentially becoming caught within the interface 28.

[00048] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional illustration similar to Figure 6 showing selected portions of another example embodiment. In this example, the tube body 32 includes a protrusion 80 for further reducing the size of the gap F at the interface 28 between the flexible member 26 and, in this example, the door panel 24.

[00049] The example of Figure 7 also includes a blocker portion 82 supported on a rib 84 within the channel 34. In this example, the rib 84 effectively divides the channel 34 into a first portion 34A and a second portion 34B. As can be appreciated from the illustration, the second portion 34B is closer to the interface 28. The radiation beams 44 and 54 pass through the first portion 34A of the channel in this example.

[00050] The rib 84 includes a relatively easily deformed curved portion 86 and an inclined portion 88. As can be appreciated from the illustration, the inclined portion 88 orients the curved portion 86 toward the first portion 34A of the channel.

The configuration of Figure 7 shows the example tube body 32 in a rest position when no object is in contact with it.

[00051] Figure 8 shows the example of Figure 7 in another condition where an object contacts the tube body 32 near the interface 28. In this example, a contact force, which is schematically shown at C, impacts the tube body 32 near the second portion 34B of the channel. Under these conditions, the relatively easy bendable portion 86 of the rib 84 and the inclination of the portion 88 tend to facilitate deformation of the tube body 32 in a direction away from the door panel 24. In this condition, the blocker portion 82 moves into a position where it blocks at least one of the radiation beams 44 or 54. This results in an indication that an object is detected near the interface 28. One advantage of providing a blocker portion 82 as shown in

Figures 7 and 8 is that it provides a larger tolerance for adjusting the axis of the radiation beam 44. As can be appreciated from Figure 8, this example arrangement provides the ability to detect when an object is approaching the interface 28 in a manner such that the object may become caught within the spacing between the door panel 24 and the door frame member 22.

[00052] Figure 9 shows another condition of the example of Figure 7. In this example, an object contacting the tube body 32 provides an impact force as schematically shown at D. In this example, the inclination of the portion 88 of the rib 84 prevents deformation of the portion of the body 32 that establishes the second portion 34B of the channel. Instead, only the portion of the body 32 associated with the first channel portion 34A is deflected. The position of the blocker 82 in this example effectively prevents the tube body 32 from moving into a position where it could block either of the beams 44 or 54.

[00053] One advantage to such an arrangement is that it avoids false detection of an object approaching the interface 28 when the object is unlikely to become caught. If an object were positioned at the arrow D, for example, it is not likely to become caught in the interface 28 during relative movement between the door panel 24 and the door frame member 22. Accordingly, the example of Figures 7-9 provides one way of accommodating a variety of impacts or contact with the flexible member 26 and only providing an indication of a detected object to the controller 60 under desired or selected circumstances. [00054] Figure 10 schematically illustrates another example flexible member

26. In this example, the flexible member 26 includes a mounting tab 90 that is received within a groove 92 on a door panel 24. Such an arrangement provides an alternative way of securing the flexible member 26 in a desired position relative to a selected interface 28. [00055] In this example, the flexible member 26 comprises a generally cylindrical tube having a tube body 94. The tube body 94 contains a fluid 96 within the tube. Deflection of at least a portion of the tube body 94 will tend to redistribute the fluid 96 within the tube and cause at least a localized change in pressure of the fluid 96 within the tube. The sensor 40 detects such a change in pressure and, in one example, determines whether the change is significant enough to indicate contact with an object that may become or has become caught in the interface 28.

[00056] The example of Figure 10 includes a pressure transducer 98 supported relative to the tube body 94 where it is possible for the pressure transducer 98 to detect a change in pressure of the fluid 96 within the tube. One example fluid comprises a gas. Another example fluid comprises a liquid. Another example fluid comprises a gel. One example includes silicone as the fluid 96. .Another example includes air.

[00057] When the change in pressure, which will typically be detected as an increase, reaches a selected threshold, the sensor 40 provides an indication to the controller 60, which responds by automatically controlling door movement in a preprogrammed manner.

[00058] Figure 11 schematically illustrates another example door assembly having another example flexible member 26. In this example, the flexible member 26 comprises a cord 100. One advantage to using a cord in some examples, is that the cord will fit within the spacing at the interface so that it is not visible. A switch 102 is associated with one end of the cord 100 while an opposite end is secured to a door frame member 22 using a mounting portion 104. The cord 100 preferably is under some tension so that contact with an object at the interface 28 will deflect the corresponding portion of the cord 100. Such movement of the cord 100 activates the switch 102 to provide an indication to the controller 60 regarding the detection of an object at the interface 28.

[00059] In some instances, it will be desirable to support a cord 100 for movement with a door panel 24. Figure 12 schematically illustrates one arrangement for this purpose. In this example, one end of the cord 100 is supported by the mount 104 near one end of the door panel 24. An opposite end of the cord 100 is mounted at a connection 106 with a hanger plate 108 associated with the door panel 24.

[00060] In the example of Figure 12, a sheave 110 is supported on the door hanger 108. The cord 100 wraps at least partially around the sheave 110 and is directed toward a sheave 112 associated in this example with a drive mechanism (e.g., the automated mover 61) for automatically moving the door panel 24. Another sheave 114 is associated with that moving mechanism. In this example, when there is contact between the cord 100 and an object at the interface 28, the deflection of the cord 100 causes movement of the sheave 112, which is associated with a switch 102 to provide an indication regarding the detection of an object at the interface 28.

[00061] A variety of example detector arrangements have been described above. Given this description, those skilled in the art will realize which type of arrangement to select or what combination of such arrangements may be useful to meet the needs of their particular situation. Additionally, given this description, those skilled in the art will realize that combinations of various features of the disclosed examples may prove useful under certain circumstances.

[00062] The preceding description is exemplary rather than limiting in nature. Variations and modifications to the disclosed examples may become apparent to those skilled in the art that do not necessarily depart from the essence of this invention. The scope of legal protection given to this invention can only be determined by studying the following claims.

Claims

CLAIMSWe claim:

1. A door assembly, comprising: a door panel that is automatically moveable between open and closed positions; a flexible member supported near an interface between the door panel and another structure, the flexible member at least partially deflecting responsive to an object contacting a corresponding portion of the flexible member; and a sensor that detects the deflecting of the flexible member and provides an indication that the object is near the interface.

2. The assembly of claim 1, comprising a door mover that automatically moves the door panel between the open and closed positions; and a controller that controls the door mover responsive to the indication from the sensor.

3. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the flexible member comprises a cord suspended near the interface where the cord will be contacted and at least partially deflected by the object if the object is near the interface.

4. The assembly of claim 3, wherein the sensor comprises a switch that is activated responsive to the deflecting of the cord.

5. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the flexible member comprises a tube having an at least partially flexible outer surface.

6. The assembly of claim 5, wherein the tube contains a fluid and the sensor detects at least a localized change in pressure of the fluid contained in the tube responsive to the deflecting of the tube.

7. The assembly of claim 6, wherein the sensor comprises a pressure transducer.

8. The assembly of claim 6, wherein the fluid comprises at least one of a gas, a liquid or a gel.

9. The assembly of claim 5, wherein the tube has an open channel and the sensor comprises a radiation source emanating at least one beam of radiation within the channel; and a detector that detects the at least one beam of radiation, the sensor detecting when the deflecting of the tube interrupts the at least one beam of radiation between the radiation source and the radiation detector.

10. The assembly of claim 9, wherein the radiation source is positioned near one end of the door panel and the radiation detector is positioned near an opposite end of the door panel.

11. The assembly of claim 9, wherein the radiation source is positioned near one end of the door panel, the radiation detector is positioned near the one end of the door panel and the sensor comprises a reflector near an opposite end of the door panel such that the at least one radiation beam emanated from the radiation source and reflected off the reflector is detected by the radiation detector.

12. The assembly of claim 9, wherein the radiation comprises light.

13. The assembly of claim 9, wherein the tube includes at least one blocking member situated within the channel to interrupt the at least one beam of radiation responsive to the object contacting the tube in a position where the object may become caught in the interface.

14. The assembly of claim 13, wherein the blocking member does not interrupt the at least one beam of radiation responsive to the object contacting the tube in a position where the object is not likely to become caught in the interface.

15. The assembly of claim 9, comprising a rigid cover at least partially surrounding at least one of the radiation source and the radiation detector.

16. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the flexible member fits within a spacing between the door panel and the another structure such that the flexible member is hidden from view.

17. A method of detecting an object at an interface between a door panel and another structure using a flexible member near the interface, comprising the steps of: using a sensor for detecting a deflection of at least a portion of the flexible member responsive to contact between the flexible member and an object; and providing an indication of the contact.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein the flexible member comprises a cord and the method comprises determining when the cord is at least partially deflected.

19. The method of claim 17, wherein the flexible member comprises a tube and the method comprises determining when at least a portion of the tube is deflected.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein the tube contains a fluid and the method comprises determining when there is at least a localized change in a pressure of the fluid contained in the tube responsive to the deflection.

21. The method of claim 19, comprising directing at least one beam of radiation within a channel in the tube; and determining when the deflection interrupts the at least one beam of radiation.

22. The method of claim 17, comprising using the flexible member for mitigating any impact on an object that contacts the flexible member.