JP2001202859A - Photoelectric switch - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a photoelectric switch which can easily and accurately recognize value relating to a process of light receiving signal. SOLUTION: A light projection and receiving part 20 is provided at a front face 14 of casing of a photoelectric switch 1, and a display part 30 and an adjustment switches 50 are provided at a rear face 13. A selection/decision/ setting/switch 40 and a display lamp are provided on one end surface 11 of the casing 10. An output cable 70 is connected to angled portion between the rear face 13 and other end surface 12 of the casing. The selection/decision/ setting/switch 40 is used for the selection operation for selecting information forms displayed at the display part 30, the decision operation of set value and the setting operation of set value. The adjustment switches 50 are used for adjusting the value of information displayed at the display part 30.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

The present invention relates to a photoelectric switch for detecting the presence or absence of an object in a predetermined detection area.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, photoelectric switches have been used to detect the presence or absence of an object on a production line of a factory or the like.
The photoelectric switch projects light onto a detection area of an object and receives return light from the object to determine the presence or absence of the object.

[0003] As one of such photoelectric switches, a photoelectric switch of a triangulation system utilizing the principle of triangulation has been developed. The photoelectric switch of the triangulation method is called a distance setting type photoelectric switch.

FIG. 19 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration of a main part of a conventional triangular distance measuring photoelectric switch.

In FIG. 19, a photoelectric switch 800 comprises:
It includes a light emitting diode 801, a light projecting lens 802, a light receiving lens 803, and a PSD (light position detecting element) 804. Light emitted from the light emitting diode 801 is irradiated on the detection target 900 through the light projecting lens 802. The reflected light from the detection target 900 is received as a light spot on the light receiving surface of the PSD 804 through the light receiving lens 803.

[0006] The position of the light spot on the light receiving surface of the PSD 804 changes depending on the distance between the photoelectric switch 800 and the detection target 900. When the detection target 900 approaches the photoelectric switch 800, a light spot is formed on one end e1 side of the light receiving surface of the PSD 804, and when the detection target 900 is separated from the photoelectric switch 800, the light spot changes to the PSD 80.
4 on the other end e2 side on the light receiving surface.

[0007] The PSD 804 outputs two light receiving signals N and F according to the position of the light spot on the light receiving surface. One light receiving signal N has a level (current value) proportional to the distance from one end e1 of the light receiving surface of the PSD 804 to the light spot, and the other light receiving signal F has a level from the other end e2 of the light receiving surface to the light spot. It has a level (current value) proportional to the distance.
Therefore, the distance from the photoelectric switch 800 to the detection target 900 can be detected using the two light receiving signals N and F.

On the optical axis of the light projected from the light emitting diode 801, the detection area is a range in which the reflected light from the object to be detected can enter the light receiving surface of the PSD 804. A set position ST is set in advance in the detection area, and a side closer to the photoelectric switch 800 with respect to the set position ST is a detectable range,
The side away from the photoelectric switch 800 with respect to the set position ST is the non-detection range. The photoelectric switch 800 determines that the detection target 900 is present when the PSD 804 receives the reflected light from the detectable range.

FIG. 20 is a diagram for explaining a determination process using the light receiving signals N and F output from the PSD 804. The difference (N−F) between the light receiving signal N and the light receiving signal F corresponds to the position of the detection target 900 within the detection area. In the actual processing, normalization is performed by dividing the difference (N−F) between the received light signals by (N + F) corresponding to the total amount of received light to obtain a position signal {(N−F) / (N + F)}.

As shown in FIG. 20A, when the level of the position signal is higher than a predetermined threshold value TH, it is determined that the detection target 900 exists within the detectable range,
As shown in FIG. 20B, when the level of the position signal is lower than the threshold value TH, the detection target 9 falls within the detectable range.
It is determined that 00 does not exist. By adjusting the threshold value TH, the set position ST in the detection area can be moved.

FIG. 21 is a schematic diagram for explaining a method of setting a threshold value in a conventional photoelectric switch. The photoelectric switch 800 includes a trimmer switch 8 for adjusting a threshold value.
10, a detection indicator 811 for displaying the detection result and a stability indicator 812 for indicating the stability of the detection.

First, as shown in FIG. 21A, the detection object 900 is arranged at a predetermined position in front of the photoelectric switch 800, and the trimmer switch 810 is turned to the right until the detection indicator 811 is turned on.

Next, as shown in FIG. 21B, the detection object 900 is removed, and the trimmer switch 810 is further turned to the right until the detection indicator 811 is turned on while light is projected on the background object 901. . If there is no background object 901, the trimmer switch 810 is set to the maximum position.

Further, as shown in FIG. 21 (c), the trimmer switch 810 is returned to the left, and is set to an intermediate position between the positions shown in FIGS. 21 (a) and 21 (b). Thereby, the set position ST is set between the position of the detection target 900 and the position of the background object 901.

In this state, the detection indicator 811 and the stability indicator 812 are turned on when the detection object 900 is present, and the detection indicator 811 is turned off when the detection object 900 is not present, and the stability indicator is displayed. Check that the lamp 812 is turned on. If the stability indicator 812 does not light,
Since the margin between the set position ST and the position of the detection target 900 or between the set position ST and the background object 901 is small, readjustment is performed.

[0016]

As described above, in the conventional photoelectric switch 800, the trimmer switch 810 is viewed while looking at the detection indicator 811 and the stability indicator 812.
Since the set position ST is set and adjusted by turning, the set position ST that has been set cannot be accurately grasped, and it is difficult to finely adjust the set position ST. Further, it is also difficult to grasp the margin between the detection target 900 and the set position ST and the margin between the set position ST and the background object 901.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a photoelectric switch capable of easily and accurately recognizing a value relating to processing of a light receiving signal.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a photoelectric switch capable of easily and accurately recognizing a value relating to processing of a light receiving signal and adjusting the value easily and accurately.

[0019]

Means for Solving the Problems and Effects of the Invention (1)
A photoelectric switch according to a first aspect of the present invention is a photoelectric switch that projects light onto a detection area and detects the presence or absence of an object in the detection area by receiving feedback light from the detection area. A casing having a plurality of outer surfaces and a first outer surface among the plurality of outer surfaces of the casing, for receiving return light from the detection region; A light receiving unit for guiding the light to the light receiving means; a processing means for processing a light receiving signal output from the light receiving means;
And a display means for displaying a value relating to the processing of the processing means.

In the photoelectric switch according to the present invention, the feedback light from the detection area is received by the light receiving means through the light receiving section, and a light receiving signal corresponding to the light receiving state is output. Then, the light receiving signal is processed by the processing means. Further, a value relating to the processing of the processing means is displayed by the display means.

In this case, since the light receiving section and the display means are provided on the outer surfaces of the casing facing each other, the area of the light receiving section and the area of the display means can be sufficiently secured while reducing the size of the casing. . Therefore, the user can easily and accurately recognize the value relating to the processing of the received light signal while ensuring high detection accuracy.

(2) Second invention The photoelectric switch according to the second invention is the photoelectric switch according to the first invention, wherein the photoelectric switch is provided on the second outer surface of the casing and has a value displayed on the display means. The image processing apparatus further includes adjusting means for adjusting in the processing means.

In this case, since the adjusting means is provided on the same outer surface as the display means of the casing, the user can easily and accurately adjust the value while watching the value displayed on the display means.

(3) Third invention In a photoelectric switch according to a third invention, in the configuration of the photoelectric switch according to the second invention, the display means is capable of switching and displaying a plurality of types of values relating to the processing of the processing means. A plurality of outer surfaces of the casing, which are provided on a third outer surface different from the first and second outer surfaces, to select a value type to be displayed on the display device from among a plurality of types of values relating to the processing of the processing device. Is further provided.

In this case, a plurality of values relating to the processing of the processing means are switched and displayed on the display means. The user can select the type of value to be displayed on the display unit from among the plurality of types of values relating to the processing unit using the selection unit, and adjust the value displayed on the display unit using the adjustment unit in the processing unit. can do.

In particular, since the adjusting means and the selecting means are provided on different outer surfaces of the casing, erroneous operation of the adjusting means and the selecting means is prevented.

(4) Fourth Invention A photoelectric switch according to a fourth invention is directed to the photoelectric switch according to the first invention, wherein the display means relates to the processing of the processing means and detects the presence or absence of an object. An adjusting unit configured to display an adjustable value, provided on a second outer surface of the casing, for adjusting the adjustable value displayed on the display unit, and a first and a plurality of outer surfaces of the casing. A third outer surface different from the second outer surface;
Determining means for determining the value adjusted by the adjusting means as a value relating to the processing of the processing means.

In this case, an adjustable value relating to the processing of the processing means and for detecting the presence or absence of the object is displayed on the display means. The user can adjust the value displayed on the display unit using the adjusting unit, and can determine the value adjusted by the adjusting unit as a value related to the processing of the processing unit using the determining unit.

In particular, since the adjusting means and the determining means are provided on different outer surfaces of the casing, erroneous operations of the adjusting means and the determining means are prevented.

(5) Fifth Invention The photoelectric switch according to the fifth invention is the same as the photoelectric switch according to the first invention, wherein the third of the plurality of outer surfaces of the casing is different from the first and second outer surfaces. Setting means for setting a value generated based on the processing of the processing means and adjustable as to detect the presence or absence of an object as a value relating to the processing of the processing means, and a second outer surface of the casing. And adjusting means for adjusting the adjustable value set by the setting means and displayed on the display means by the processing means.

In this case, the user can set a value which is generated based on the processing of the processing means and can be adjusted to detect the presence or absence of the object as a value relating to the processing of the processing means by using the setting means. The adjustable value set by the setting means is displayed on the display means. The user
The adjustable value displayed on the display means can be adjusted using the adjusting means.

In particular, since the adjusting means and the setting means are provided on different outer surfaces of the casing, erroneous operation of the adjusting means and the setting means is prevented.

(6) Sixth invention A photoelectric switch according to a sixth invention is the photoelectric switch according to any one of the third to fifth inventions, wherein the processing means comprises a light receiving signal output from the light receiving means. , A detection process for detecting the presence or absence of an object in the detection area is performed, and a display unit is provided on the third outer surface of the casing and displays information on a detection state of the processing unit.

In this case, since the display unit is provided on the same outer surface as the casing selection unit, the determination unit or the setting unit, the user operates the selection unit while watching the information on the detection state displayed on the display unit. Can be.

(7) Seventh invention A photoelectric switch according to a seventh invention is the photoelectric switch according to the first invention, wherein the display means is capable of switching and displaying a plurality of types of values relating to the processing of the processing means. A selection means provided on the second outer surface of the casing for selecting a value type to be displayed on the display means among a plurality of types of values relating to the processing by the processing means; And an adjusting means provided on a third outer surface different from the second outer surface, for adjusting a value displayed on the display means by the processing means.

In this case, a plurality of values relating to the processing of the processing means are switched and displayed on the display means. The user can select the type of value to be displayed on the display unit from among a plurality of types of values related to the processing of the processing unit using the selection unit, and can use the adjustment unit to change the value displayed on the display unit. Can be adjusted.

In particular, since the adjusting means and the selecting means are provided on different outer surfaces of the casing, erroneous operations of the adjusting means and the selecting means are prevented. Further, since the display means and the selection means are provided on the same outer surface of the casing, the user can select a value to be displayed on the display means by the selection means while watching the value displayed on the display means. Therefore, the selection operation by the selection means can be performed accurately.

(8) Eighth Invention In the photoelectric switch according to the eighth invention, in the configuration of the photoelectric switch according to the first invention, the display means relates to the processing of the processing means and detects the presence or absence of an object. An adjustable value is configured to be displayed, provided on a third outer surface different from the first and second outer surfaces of the plurality of outer surfaces of the casing, for adjusting the adjustable value displayed on the display means. Adjusting means, provided on a second outer surface of the casing,
Determining means for determining the value adjusted by the adjusting means as a value relating to the processing of the processing means.

In this case, an adjustable value for the processing of the processing means and for detecting the presence or absence of the object is displayed on the display means. The user can adjust the value displayed on the display unit using the adjusting unit, and can determine the value adjusted by the adjusting unit as a value related to the processing of the processing unit using the determining unit.

In particular, since the adjusting means and the determining means are provided on different outer surfaces of the casing, erroneous operations of the adjusting means and the determining means are prevented. Further, since the display means and the determination means are provided on the same outer surface of the casing, the user can perform the determination operation by the determination means while watching the value displayed on the display means. Therefore, the determining operation by the determining means can be performed accurately.

(9) Ninth Invention A photoelectric switch according to a ninth invention is provided on the second outer surface of the casing in the configuration of the photoelectric switch according to the first invention, and is generated based on the processing of the processing means. Setting means for setting an adjustable value for detecting the presence or absence of an object as a value relating to processing of the processing means, and a third outer surface different from the first and second outer surfaces of the plurality of outer surfaces of the casing. And adjusting means for adjusting the adjustable value set by the setting means and displayed on the display means by the processing means.

In this case, the user can set a value which is generated based on the processing of the processing means and can be adjusted to detect the presence or absence of the object as a value relating to the processing of the processing means by using the setting means. The adjustable value set by the setting means is displayed on the display means. The user
The adjustable value displayed on the display means can be adjusted using the adjusting means.

In particular, since the adjusting means and the setting means are provided on different outer surfaces of the casing, erroneous operation of the adjusting means and the setting means is prevented. Further, since the display means and the setting means are provided on the same outer surface of the casing, the user can perform a setting operation by the setting means while watching the value displayed on the display means. Therefore, the setting operation by the setting means can be performed accurately.

(10) Tenth invention A photoelectric switch according to a tenth invention is the photoelectric switch according to any one of the first to ninth inventions, wherein the casing further includes a light emitting means for generating light. Further, a light projecting unit for projecting the light generated by the light emitting means to the detection area is further provided on the first outer surface of the casing.

In this case, since the light projecting section and the display means are provided on different outer surfaces of the casing, it is possible to secure a sufficient area of the light projecting section and the area of the display means while reducing the size of the casing. it can.

(11) Eleventh invention A photoelectric switch according to an eleventh invention is a photoelectric switch which detects light by projecting light onto a detection area and receiving feedback light from the detection area to detect the presence or absence of an object in the detection area. And a light receiving means for outputting a light receiving signal according to a light receiving state of the return light from the detection area, and at least the light receiving means built therein, and a casing having a plurality of outer surfaces,
A first outer surface of the plurality of outer surfaces of the casing,
A light receiving portion that receives the return light from the detection region and guides the light to the light receiving means and a second outer surface of the plurality of outer surfaces facing the first outer surface among the plurality of outer surfaces, and is generated based on a light receiving signal from the light receiving means. Display means for displaying a value.

In the photoelectric switch according to the present invention, the feedback light from the detection area is received by the light receiving means through the light receiving section, and a light receiving signal corresponding to the light receiving state is output. Then, a value generated based on the light receiving signal is displayed on the display means.

In this case, since the light receiving section and the display means are provided on the outer surfaces of the casing facing each other, the area of the light receiving section and the area of the display means can be sufficiently secured while reducing the size of the casing. . Therefore, the user can easily and accurately recognize the value generated based on the value of the light receiving signal while securing high detection accuracy.

(12) Twelfth Invention A photoelectric switch according to a twelfth invention is the photoelectric switch according to the eleventh invention, wherein the photoelectric switch is provided on the second outer surface of the casing and has a value displayed on the display means. It further comprises an adjusting means for adjusting.

In this case, since the display means and the adjustment means are provided on the same outer surface of the casing, the user can easily and accurately adjust the values by the adjustment means while watching the values displayed on the display means. As much as possible, the value can be easily and accurately recognized.

(13) Thirteenth Invention In a photoelectric switch according to a thirteenth invention, in the configuration of the photoelectric switch according to the twelfth invention, the display means includes a plurality of types of photoelectric switches generated based on a light receiving signal from the light receiving means. It is configured to be able to switch and display a value, and is provided on a third outer surface different from the first and second outer surfaces of the plurality of outer surfaces of the casing, and includes a plurality of types of values generated based on a light receiving signal from a light receiving unit. The apparatus further comprises a selection unit for selecting a type of a value to be displayed on the display unit.

In this case, a plurality of values generated based on the light receiving signal are switched and displayed on the display means. The user can select the type of the value to be displayed on the display unit using the selection unit, and can adjust the value displayed on the display unit using the adjustment unit.

In particular, since the adjusting means and the selecting means are provided on different outer surfaces of the casing, erroneous operation of the adjusting means and the selecting means is prevented.

(14) Fourteenth Invention A photoelectric switch according to a fourteenth invention is directed to a twelfth or first photoelectric switch.
In the configuration of the photoelectric switch according to the third aspect of the invention, a processing unit that processes a light reception signal output from the light receiving unit, a storage unit that stores a value generated by the processing unit, and a first and a plurality of outer surfaces of the casing. A determining unit provided on a third outer surface different from the second outer surface, the determining unit determining a value to be stored in the storage unit as a reference value adjusted by the adjusting unit.

In this case, the value generated by the processing means is stored in the storage unit. The user can adjust the value displayed on the display unit using the adjusting unit, and can store the value adjusted by the adjusting unit as the reference value in the storage unit using the determining unit.

In particular, since the adjusting means and the determining means are provided on different outer surfaces of the casing, erroneous operations of the adjusting means and the determining means are prevented.

(15) Fifteenth Invention A photoelectric switch according to a fifteenth invention is directed to a twelfth or first photoelectric switch.
In the configuration of the photoelectric switch according to the third aspect of the present invention, the photoelectric switch is provided on a third outer surface different from the first and second outer surfaces among the plurality of outer surfaces of the casing, and is generated based on a light receiving signal from the light receiving means and the presence or absence of an object. Setting means for setting an adjustable value for detecting the value as a value relating to the processing of the processing means, and the display means displays the adjustable value set by the setting means.

In this case, the user can use the setting means to set a value which is generated based on the light receiving signal from the light receiving means and which can be adjusted to detect the presence or absence of an object, as a value relating to the processing of the processing means. it can. The adjustable value set by the setting means is displayed on the display means. The user can adjust the adjustable value displayed on the display means using the adjusting means.

In particular, since the adjusting means and the setting means are provided on different outer surfaces of the casing, erroneous operation of the adjusting means and the setting means is prevented.

(16) Sixteenth Invention A photoelectric switch according to a sixteenth invention is the photoelectric switch according to the fifteenth invention, wherein the processing means for processing a light reception signal output from the light reception means, A storage unit that stores a value set by the setting unit as a reference value among values generated based on the processing, and stores the adjusted reference value after the adjustment of the reference value by the adjustment unit. It is.

In this case, the light receiving signal output from the light receiving means is processed by the processing means. Then, the value determined by the setting unit among the values generated based on the processing of the processing unit is stored in the storage unit as a reference value, and after the adjustment of the reference value by the adjustment unit, the adjusted reference value is stored in the storage unit. Is done.

[0062]

FIG. 1 is an external perspective view of a triangular distance measuring photoelectric switch according to an embodiment of the present invention as viewed from one direction, and FIG. 2 is an external perspective view of the photoelectric switch of FIG. 1 as viewed from another direction. FIG.

In the photoelectric switch 1 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the casing 10 has end faces 11, 1 facing each other.
2. It is formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape having a back face 13 and a front face 14 facing each other, and side faces 15 and 16 facing each other. For example, the vertical length L of the casing 10 is 30 mm, the horizontal length D is 20 mm,
The width W is 10.8 mm.

As shown in FIG. 2, the front face portion 14 of the casing 10 is provided with a light emitting / receiving section 20 for projecting light to the detection area and receiving feedback light from the detection area.
As shown in FIG. 1, the rear portion 13 of the casing 10 includes
Display unit 30 and two push-type adjustment switches 50
Is provided. One end face 11 of the casing 10
Is provided with a push-type selection / decision / setting switch 40 and an indicator light 60. An output cable 70 is connected to a corner between the rear surface 13 of the casing 10 and the other end surface 12. Side part 1 of casing 10
Reference numerals 5 and 16 are used to contact and fix the photoelectric switch 1 with another device.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the photoelectric switch of FIG. As shown in FIG. 3, the photoelectric switch 1
Light emitting lens 21, LED (light emitting diode) 22, light receiving lens 23, PSD (light position detecting element) 24, control circuit 81, amplifiers 82 and 83, LED (light emitting diode) driving circuit 84, display unit 30, selection / determination / Setting switch 4
0, an adjustment switch 50 and an indicator light 60. The control circuit 81 has a built-in memory 88.

The light projecting lens 21 and the light receiving lens 23 constitute the light projecting / receiving unit 20. LED22, PSD2
4. The control circuit 81, the amplifiers 82 and 83, and the LED drive circuit 84 are built in the casing 10 of FIG.

The LED drive circuit 84 drives the LED 22 under the control of the control circuit 81. Therefore, LED2
2 emits light. The light emitted from the LED 22 passes through the light projecting lens 21 to be detected 50 in the detection area.
Projected to 0. The reflected light from the detection object 500 is received as a light spot on the light receiving surface of the PSD 24 through the light receiving lens 23.

The PSD 24 outputs two light receiving signals N and F according to the position of the light spot on the light receiving surface. One light receiving signal N has a level (current value) substantially proportional to the distance from one end e1 of the light receiving surface of the PSD 24 to the light spot, and the other light receiving signal F has a level from the other end e2 of the light receiving surface to the light spot. Has a level (current value) that is substantially proportional to the distance. The light receiving signals N and F output from the PSD 24 are provided to the control circuit 81 via the amplifiers 82 and 83, respectively.

The control circuit 81 performs the determination process using the light receiving signals N and F and a preset threshold value as described with reference to FIG. That is, the control circuit 81
Based on the light receiving signals N and F corresponding to the current position of the light spot on the light receiving surface of the PSD 24, the position signal ｛(NF) /
By calculating (N + F)｝ and comparing the value of the position signal with a threshold value, the detection target 500 in the detection area is obtained.
Is detected.

The control circuit 81 causes the display lamp 60 to display the detection result and the stability of the detection, and outputs a detection signal DT indicating the detection result to the outside through the output cable 70. Here, the case where it is determined that the detection target exists within the detectable range of the detection region is called an on state, and the case where it is determined that the detection target does not exist within the detectable range of the detection region is called an off state. The detection stability is represented by a difference between the value of the position signal and the threshold value when the detection target is present in the detection range of the detection area and when the detection target is not present, and when the difference is equal to or more than a predetermined value. Is called an unstable state, and when the difference is smaller than a predetermined value, it is called an unstable state.

The control circuit 81 further stores position information (information indicating the current position signal value) indicating the position of the detection target, threshold information indicating a threshold value, and the detection result of the detection target. The memory 88 stores various information such as detection information, maximum position information indicating the maximum value of the position signal, minimum position information indicating the minimum value of the position signal, and error information.

The control circuit 81 displays various information such as position information, threshold information, detection information, stability information, maximum position information, minimum position information, and error information stored in the memory 88 on the display unit 30. Change the display.

The selection / decision / setting switch 40 is used for a selection operation for selecting the type of information to be displayed on the display unit 30, and generates a value which can be adjusted based on the position signal and can be adjusted by the control circuit 81. Used for setting operation to set as a set value (reference value) for processing,
Further, it is used for a determination operation for determining a value of information displayed on the display unit 30 and adjusted by the adjustment switch 50 described later as a new set value (reference value) related to the processing of the control circuit 81. Here, the value that is generated and adjustable based on the position signal is a value calculated using the value of the position signal in a certain period or a certain state or a value of the position signal itself. The value is an intermediate value between the maximum value and the minimum value of the position signal, an intermediate value of the position signal values in the two states, a value of the position signal in a certain state, and the like.

The control circuit 81 switches the type of information to be displayed on the display unit 30 in response to the selection operation of the selection / determination / setting switch 40, and responds to the setting operation of the selection / determination / setting switch 40. A value generated and adjustable based on the position signal is stored in the memory 88 as a set value, and the value of the information displayed on the display unit 30 in response to the determination operation of the selection / determination / setting switch 40 is replaced with a new value. It is stored in the memory 88 as a set value.

The adjustment switch 50 is used to adjust the value of the information displayed on the display unit 30 among various values relating to the processing of the control circuit 81.

In this embodiment, the LED 22 corresponds to the light emitting means, the PSD 24 corresponds to the light receiving means,
Corresponds to the light projecting unit, and the light receiving lens 23 corresponds to the light receiving unit. The display unit 30 corresponds to a display unit, the adjustment switch 50 corresponds to an adjustment unit, and the selection / determination / setting switch 40 corresponds to a selection unit, a determination unit, and a setting unit.
Further, the control circuit 81 corresponds to a processing unit, and the memory 88
Corresponds to the storage unit. The display lamp 60 corresponds to a display unit, and the output cable 70 corresponds to an output line.

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram for explaining position information and threshold information. On the optical axis of the light projected from the LED 22, the range in which the reflected light from the detection target can enter the light receiving surface of the PSD 24 is the detection area D0. The set position ST is set in the detection area D0 in advance. The set position ST means a position where the detection result based on the reflected light from the detection area D0 changes between the on state and the off state.

In the detection area D0, the detectable range D is between the end P1 closest to the photoelectric switch 1 and the set position ST.
The non-detection range D2 is between the end P2 farthest from the photoelectric switch 1 and the set position ST. The control circuit 81 in FIG. 3 converts reflected light from the detectable range D1 into PSD2.
When 4 receives light, it is determined that the detection target exists.

The position of the object to be detected in the detection area D0 is represented by position information having the end P1 of the detection area D0 as the origin. For example, when the position information of the end P1 of the detection area D0 is 0
, And the position information of the end portion P2 is set to 999. Further, the set position ST is represented by threshold information having the origin at the end P1 of the detection area D0, similarly to the position information. When the set position ST is set at the end P1 of the detection area D0, the threshold information becomes 0. When the set position ST is set at the end P2 of the detection area D0, the threshold information becomes 999. Becomes Based on such position information and threshold information, the position of the detection target and the set position ST and the position of the detection target and the set position S in the detection area D0 are determined.
The relative relationship with T can be easily grasped.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the display unit 30 and the indicator lamp 60 in the photoelectric switch 1 of FIG.

As shown in FIG. 5A, various information such as position information and threshold information is displayed on the display unit 30 by characters such as numerals and characters. As shown in FIG. 5B, the indicator lamp 60 has a detection display LED (light emitting diode) 62a for displaying the detection result and a stability display LED (light emitting diode) 6 for displaying the detection stability.
2b is built in.

When the detection result is on, the detection display LED 62a is turned on, and when the detection result is off, the detection display LED 62a is turned off. When the stability of the detection is stable, the stability display LED 62b is turned on, and when the stability of the detection is unstable, the stability display LED 62b is turned off.

In the photoelectric switch 1 of this embodiment, as described above, the type of information displayed on the display unit 30 can be switched by selecting the selection / decision / setting switch 40 shown in FIG. For example, every time the selection / decision / setting switch 40 is pressed and released, the display content of the display unit 30 changes in the order of position information, threshold information, detection information, stability information, maximum position information, minimum position information, error information, and the like. Can be switched.

Further, a value generated and adjustable based on the position signal can be set as a set value by the setting operation of the selection / determination / setting switch 40. In this case, the set value is displayed on the display unit 30 and stored in the memory 88 a predetermined time after the setting operation.

FIGS. 6, 7 and 8 are diagrams showing specific examples of the setting operation of the selection / decision / setting switch 40. FIG. FIG.
7 (c), FIG. 7 (c) and FIG. 8 (b), the state where the selection / decision / setting switch 40 is pressed is shown at a high level, and the state where the selection / decision / setting switch 40 is not pushed is shown at a low level. ing.

As a first method, when a threshold value is set based on a moving detection target 500 as shown in FIG. 6A, the selection is made as shown in FIG. After pressing the / decision / setting switch 40 for a predetermined time (3 seconds in the example of FIG. 6), the selection / decision / setting switch 40
Release your hand from As a result, as shown in FIG.
While the selection / decision / setting switch 40 is pressed, the position signal に お い て (N−
An intermediate value between the maximum value and the minimum value of (F) / (N + F)} is automatically set as the threshold value th. The threshold value th thus set is displayed on the display unit 30.

As a second method, a stationary detection object 5
In the case of setting the threshold value based on 00, FIG.
As shown in (a) and (c), first, the selection / decision / setting switch 40 is pressed shortly without the detection target 500 in front of the background object 501, and then the selection / decision / setting switch 4 is pressed.
After the hand is released from 0, the selection / decision / setting switch 40 is shortly pressed again with the detection target 500 placed in front of the background object 501, and then the hand is released from the selection / decision / setting switch 40. Thus, as shown in FIG. 7B, an intermediate value of the position signal {(NF) / (N + F)} calculated using the light receiving signals N and F in the above two states. Is automatically set as the threshold value th. The threshold value th thus set is displayed on the display unit 30.

As a third method, when setting a threshold value based on a detection target object 500 located at a predetermined position, first, as shown in FIG. After the selection / decision / setting switch 40 is pressed shortly without the detection object 500, the hand is released from the selection / decision / setting switch 40, and then the selection / decision / setting switch 40 is placed in a predetermined position. After pressing the set / set switch 40 for a predetermined time (3 seconds in the example of FIG. 8), the selection / set /
Release the setting switch 40. Thereby, the light receiving signals N and F in a state where the detection target object 500 is placed at a predetermined position.
The position signal ｛(NF) / (N +
F) The value of｝ is automatically set as the threshold th.
The threshold value th thus set is displayed on the display unit 30.

The value of the information displayed on the display unit 30 can be adjusted by operating the adjustment switch 50 shown in FIG. For example, when the threshold information is displayed on the display unit 30, pressing one adjustment switch 50 increases the value of the threshold information, and pressing the other adjustment switch 50 displays the threshold information. Decreases.

Further, the information displayed on the display unit 30 can be switched between the position information and the threshold information by operating the adjustment switch 50. For example, when one of the adjustment switches 50 is shortly pressed while the value of the position information is displayed on the display unit 30, the value of the threshold information set up to that time is displayed on the display unit 30, Subsequently, when one of the adjustment switches 50 is pressed for a short time, the value of the threshold information displayed on the display unit 30 changes by one. Accordingly, the threshold value stored in the memory 88 is automatically updated. After the threshold value is adjusted, the display on the display unit 30 is automatically switched to the position information unless the adjustment switch 50 is operated for a predetermined time.

The selection / decision / setting switch 4 shown in FIG.
The value of the information displayed on the display unit 30 can be determined as a new set value by the operation of determining 0. For example, when the value of the threshold information is displayed on the display unit 30,
When the selection / determination / setting switch 40 is kept pressed for a predetermined time or longer, the value of the threshold information displayed on the display unit 30 is stored in the memory 88 as a new threshold.

In the photoelectric switch 1 of the present embodiment, the light emitting / receiving section 20 and the display section 30 are provided on the front face section 14 and the rear face section 13 of the casing 10 which are opposed to each other. In addition, the area of the light emitting and receiving unit 20 and the display area of the display unit 30 can be sufficiently secured. Therefore, the user can easily and accurately recognize various information while securing high detection accuracy.

The display unit 30 and the adjustment switch 50
Are provided on the same back portion 13 of the casing 10 so that the user can easily and accurately adjust various information values by operating the adjustment switch 50 while viewing the display on the display unit 30.

Further, since the selection / decision / setting switch 40 and the adjustment switch 50 are provided on the end face 11 and the rear face 13 of the casing 10, respectively,
Erroneous operation of the determination / setting switch 40 and the adjustment switch 50 can be prevented.

Further, since the indicator light 60 is provided on the same end face 11 as the selection / decision / setting switch 40, the user can perform the selection operation and the operation while watching the detection result displayed on the indicator light 60 and the stability of the detection. A decision operation can be performed.

Further, by providing the output cable 70 at the corner between the end face 12 and the back face 13 facing the end face 11, the casing 10 can be kept sufficiently small while maintaining a small size. Selection / decision / setting switch 40
And the indicator lamp 60 can be provided, and the display unit 30 and the adjustment switch 50 having a sufficient size can be provided on the back surface 13. Further, the output cable 70 is also prevented from interfering with the light emitting / receiving section 20 of the front section 14.
Note that the output cable 70 may be attached to the end face 12.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing another example of the display unit 30 in the photoelectric switch 1 of FIG. As shown in FIG. 9, the display unit 30 includes a plurality of LEDs (light emitting diodes) arranged in a line, and displays various kinds of information such as position information and threshold information in a bar graph shape using the plurality of LEDs. For example, when the value of the information is the minimum, one LED at the bottom is turned on, and when the value of the information is the maximum, all the LEDs are turned on.

FIG. 10, FIG. 11, FIG. 12, FIG. 13, FIG.
15 is a diagram showing another example of the adjustment switch 50.

In the example shown in FIG. 10, a seesaw-type adjustment switch 50 is provided on the rear surface 13 of the casing 10 in a horizontal direction. When the left side of the adjustment switch 50 is pressed, the value of the information displayed on the display unit 30 decreases, and when the right side is pressed, the value of the information displayed on the display unit 30 increases.

In the example shown in FIG. 11, a seesaw-type adjustment switch 50 is provided on the rear surface 13 of the casing 10 so as to be arranged vertically. When the lower side of the adjustment switch 50 is pressed, the value of the information displayed on the display unit 30 decreases, and when the upper side is pressed, the value of the information displayed on the display unit 30 increases.

In the example shown in FIG. 12, a seesaw-type adjustment switch 50 having two obliquely disposed pressing portions is provided on the rear surface portion 13 of the casing 10. When the lower left pressing portion of the adjustment switch 50 is pressed, the value of the information displayed on the display unit 30 decreases, and when the upper right pressing portion is pressed,
The value of the information displayed on the display unit 30 increases.

In the example shown in FIG. 13, a volume dial type adjustment switch 50 is provided on the rear portion 13 of the casing 10. Turning this adjustment switch 50 to the left decreases the value of the information displayed on the display unit 30, and turning it to the right increases the value of the information displayed on the display unit 30.

In the example shown in FIG. 14, a trimming type adjustment switch 50 is provided on the rear surface 13 of the casing 10.
Turning this adjustment switch 50 to the left decreases the value of the information displayed on the display unit 30, and turning it to the right increases the value of the information displayed on the display unit 30.

In the example shown in FIG. 15, a jog dial type adjustment switch 50 is provided on the rear portion 13 of the casing 10. When the adjustment switch 50 is slid downward, the value of the information displayed on the display unit 30 decreases, and when the adjustment switch 50 is slid upward, the value of the information displayed on the display unit 30 increases.

The type of the adjustment switch 50 provided on the rear portion 13 of the casing 10 is not limited to the above example, and various switches can be used.

FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram showing another example of the selection / decision / setting switch. In the example of FIG. 16, a plurality of selection / determination / setting switches 40a, 40b, 40c, 40d, and 40e are provided on the end face portion 11 of the casing 10 of FIG. For example, when the selection / determination / setting switch 40a is pressed, the position information is displayed on the display unit 30 in FIG. Choice/
When the enter / set switch 40b is pressed, threshold information is displayed on the display unit 30. Select / Set / Set switch 40
When c is pressed, the detection information is displayed on the display unit 30. When the selection / determination / setting switch 40d is pressed, the stability information is displayed on the display unit 30. Select / Set / Set switch 40
When e is pressed, error information is displayed on the display unit 30.

The selection / decision / setting switches 40a-
When predetermined two of 40e are pressed at the same time, a value generated and adjustable based on the position signal is set as a set value and stored in the memory 88. Further, when other predetermined two of the selection / determination / setting switches 40a to 40e are simultaneously pressed, the value of the information displayed on the display unit 30 is determined as a new setting value and stored in the memory 88.

FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram of a selection switch and a decision / setting switch provided independently of each other. FIG.
In the example of 7, the selection switch 40A and the determination / setting switch 40B are separately provided on the end face portion 11 of the casing 10 of FIG. By pressing and releasing the selection switch 40A, the type of information displayed on the display unit 30 can be switched. By pressing and releasing the enter / set switch 40B, a value generated and adjustable based on the position signal can be set as a set value and stored in the memory 88 or displayed on the display unit 30. The value of the acquired information can be determined as a new set value and stored in the memory 88.

Further, a decision switch and a setting switch may be separately provided on the end face 11 of the casing 10.

In the photoelectric switch 1 of the above embodiment, after the value of the information displayed on the display unit 30 is adjusted using the adjustment switch 50, the selection / decision / setting switch 4
By performing the determination operation using 0, the value of the information displayed on the display unit 30 is stored in the memory 88 as a new set value.
When the adjustment is performed using 0, the adjusted value may be automatically stored in the memory 88.

FIG. 18 is an external perspective view of a triangular distance measuring photoelectric switch according to another embodiment of the present invention.

In the photoelectric switch 1a of FIG. 18, a display unit 30 and a push-type selection / decision / setting switch 40 are provided on the back surface 13 of the casing 10.
Further, a trimming type adjustment switch 50 and an indicator light 60 are provided on one end face portion 11 of the casing 10.
The configuration of the other parts of the photoelectric switch 1a in FIG. 18 is the same as the configuration of the photoelectric switch 1 in FIG.

In the photoelectric switch 1a of this embodiment,
As in the case of the photoelectric switch 1 of FIG.
Since the casing 10 is provided on the rear side 13, the area of the light emitting and receiving unit 20 and the display area of the display unit 30 can be sufficiently secured while reducing the size of the casing 10. Therefore, the user can easily and accurately recognize various information while securing high detection accuracy.

Since the display unit 30 and the selection / decision / setting switch 40 are provided on the same rear portion 13 of the casing 10, the user can select the selection / decision / setting switch 40 while watching the display on the display unit 30. Operations and determination operations can be performed.

Further, since the selection / decision / setting switch 40 and the adjustment switch 50 are provided on the rear surface 13 and the end surface 11 of the casing 10, respectively,
Erroneous operation of the determination / setting switch 40 and the adjustment switch 50 can be prevented.

The adjustment switch 50 and the indicator light 60
Are provided on the same end face 11 of the casing 10 so that the user can easily and accurately adjust the value of the information displayed on the display unit 30 while watching the detection result displayed on the indicator lamp 60 and the stability of the detection. It is possible to do.

Furthermore, by providing the output cable 70 at the corner between the end face 12 and the back face 13 facing the end face 11, the casing 10 can have a sufficient size while keeping the casing 10 small. Selection / decision / setting switch 40
And the indicator lamp 60 can be provided, and the display unit 30 and the adjustment switch 50 having a sufficient size can be provided on the back surface 13. Further, the output cable 70 is also prevented from interfering with the light emitting / receiving section 20 of the front section 14.
Note that the output cable 70 may be attached to the end face 12.

In the photoelectric switch 1a of the present embodiment, the pair of push-type adjustment switches 50 shown in FIG.
Alternatively, a seesaw type adjustment switch 50 shown in FIG. 2, a volume dial type adjustment switch 50 shown in FIG. 13, or a jog dial type adjustment switch 50 shown in FIG. 15 may be used. Other various switches can be used as the adjustment switch 50.

Also, in the photoelectric switch 1a of this embodiment, a plurality of selection / decision / setting switches 40a, 40b, 40c, 40d, 40e shown in FIG. 16 may be used. Further, as shown in FIG. 17, a selection switch 40A and a decision / setting switch 40B which are independently provided may be used.

In the above embodiment, the case where the photoelectric switch according to the present invention is applied to a triangular distance measuring photoelectric switch has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to the triangular distance measuring photoelectric switch, but may be applied to a detection target. A photoelectric switch that detects the presence or absence of a detection target based on the amount of reflected light or transmitted light received from the object, and displays the amount of received light and an adjustable threshold on a display unit, and the reflected light from the detection target. Alternatively, the present invention can be similarly applied to a photoelectric switch that displays a threshold calculated based on the amount of transmitted light received and a margin for the threshold on a display unit. Note that the margin corresponds to a difference between the threshold value and the amount of light received during detection or non-detection.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is an external perspective view of a triangular distance measuring photoelectric switch according to an embodiment of the present invention as viewed from one direction.

FIG. 2 is an external perspective view of the photoelectric switch of FIG. 1 as viewed from another direction.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the photoelectric switch of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram for explaining position information and threshold information.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a display unit and an indicator lamp in the photoelectric switch of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing a specific example of a setting operation by a selection / decision / setting switch in the photoelectric switch of FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing a specific example of a setting operation by a selection / determination / setting switch in the photoelectric switch of FIG. 1;

FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing a specific example of a setting operation by a selection / decision / setting switch in the photoelectric switch of FIG. 1;

FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating another example of the display unit in the photoelectric switch of FIG. 1;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing another example of the adjustment switch in the photoelectric switch of FIG. 1;

FIG. 11 is a front view showing another example of the adjustment switch in the photoelectric switch of FIG. 1;

FIG. 12 is a front view showing another example of the adjustment switch in the photoelectric switch of FIG. 1;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing another example of the adjustment switch in the photoelectric switch of FIG. 1;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view showing another example of the adjustment switch in the photoelectric switch of FIG. 1;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing another example of the adjustment switch in the photoelectric switch of FIG. 1;

FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram showing another example of the selection / determination / setting switch.

FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a selection switch and a decision / setting switch provided independently of each other.

FIG. 18 is an external perspective view of a triangular distance measuring photoelectric switch according to another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 19 is a schematic view showing a configuration of a main part of a conventional triangulation-type photoelectric switch.

FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating a determination process using a light receiving signal output from a PSD.

FIG. 21 is a schematic diagram for explaining a method of setting a threshold value in a conventional photoelectric switch.

[Explanation of symbols]

1, 1a Photoelectric switch 10 Casing 11, 12 End face 13 Back face 14 Front face 15, 16 Side face 20 Light emitting / receiving section 21 Light emitting lens 22 LED 23 Light receiving lens 24 PSD 30 Display section 40, 40a, 40b, 40c, 40d , 40e selection / decision / setting switch 40A selection switch 40B decision / setting switch 50 adjustment switch 60 indicator 62a detection display LED 62b stability display LED 70 output cable 500 detection target

Continued on the front page F term (reference) 2F065 AA01 AA06 DD00 DD02 FF09 GG07 GG12 HH04 JJ16 PP22 QQ08 QQ23 QQ29 SS12 SS13 2F112 AA02 BA02 BA10 CA12 CA20 FA09 FA19 GA05 5G055 AA01 AA03 AB03 AC01 AE09 AE53 CC04 AE00 FF15

Claims (16)

[Claims] 1. A photoelectric switch for projecting light to a detection area and detecting the presence or absence of an object in the detection area by receiving return light from the detection area. And a casing having a plurality of outer surfaces, the casing being provided on a first outer surface of the plurality of outer surfaces of the casing, receiving feedback light from the detection area and guiding the light to the light receiving unit. A light receiving unit; processing means for processing a light receiving signal output from the light receiving means; and a second outer surface of the plurality of outer surfaces of the casing facing the first outer surface, the processing of the processing means being provided. Display means for displaying a value related to the photoelectric switch. 2. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an adjusting unit provided on said second outer surface of said casing, for adjusting a value displayed on said display unit in said processing unit. Photoelectric switch. 3. The display means is configured to be capable of switching and displaying a plurality of types of values relating to processing of the processing means, and a third one of the plurality of outer surfaces of the casing different from the first and second outer surfaces. 3. The photoelectric switch according to claim 2, further comprising a selection unit provided on an outer surface, for selecting a type of a value to be displayed on the display unit from among a plurality of types of values related to the processing of the processing unit. 4. The display means is configured to be capable of displaying an adjustable value related to the processing of the processing means and detecting presence / absence of an object, provided on the second outer surface of the casing, and provided with the display. Adjusting means for adjusting the adjustable value displayed on the means, provided on a third outer surface different from the first and second outer surfaces of the plurality of outer surfaces of the casing, and Determining means for determining the adjusted value as a value relating to processing of the processing means. 5. A plurality of outer surfaces of the casing, which are provided on a third outer surface different from the first and second outer surfaces, are generated based on the processing of the processing means, and detect the presence or absence of an object. Setting means for setting a value which can be adjusted as a value relating to the processing of the processing means, provided on the second outer surface of the casing, set by the setting means and displayed on the display means. 2. The photoelectric switch according to claim 1, further comprising adjusting means for adjusting an adjustable value in said processing means. 6. The processing means performs detection processing for detecting the presence or absence of an object in the detection area by processing a light reception signal output from the light reception means, and is provided on the third outer surface of the casing. The photoelectric switch according to any one of claims 3 to 5, further comprising a display unit for displaying information on a detection state of the processing unit. 7. The display means is configured to be able to switch and display a plurality of types of values relating to the processing of the processing means, provided on the second outer surface of the casing, and provided with a plurality of types of values relating to the processing of the processing means. Selecting means for selecting a type of a value to be displayed on the display means, and a display means provided on a third outer surface different from the first and second outer surfaces among the plurality of outer surfaces of the casing; An adjusting unit for adjusting the value displayed in the processing unit in the processing unit.
The photoelectric switch as described in the above. 8. The display means is configured to be capable of displaying an adjustable value relating to the processing of the processing means and detecting presence / absence of an object, and wherein the first and the second of the plurality of outer surfaces of the casing are provided. An adjusting means for adjusting the adjustable value displayed on the display means, the adjusting means being provided on a third outer surface different from the outer surface of the second; and the adjusting means being provided on the second outer surface of the casing, 2. The photoelectric switch according to claim 1, further comprising: a determination unit configured to determine the adjusted value as a value related to the processing of the processing unit. 9. A value that is provided on the second outer surface of the casing and that is generated based on the processing of the processing unit and that is adjustable to detect the presence or absence of an object is set as a value related to the processing of the processing unit. Setting means for setting, provided on a third outer surface different from the first and second outer surfaces of the plurality of outer surfaces of the casing, set by the setting means and displayed on the display means. 2. An adjusting means for adjusting possible values in said processing means.
The photoelectric switch as described in the above. 10. The casing further includes a light emitting unit for generating light, and a light emitting unit for projecting the light generated by the light emitting unit to the detection area on the first outer surface of the casing. The photoelectric switch according to claim 1, wherein the photoelectric switch is provided. 11. A photoelectric switch for projecting light onto a detection area and detecting the presence or absence of an object in the detection area by receiving return light from the detection area, wherein the photoelectric switch detects the presence or absence of an object in the detection area. A light-receiving unit that outputs a corresponding light-receiving signal; a casing that includes at least the light-receiving unit and has a plurality of outer surfaces; a casing that is provided on a first outer surface of the plurality of outer surfaces of the casing; A light receiving unit that receives the feedback light and guides the light to the light receiving unit; and a light receiving unit that is provided on a second outer surface of the plurality of outer surfaces of the casing that faces the first outer surface and is generated based on a light receiving signal from the light receiving unit. And a display means for displaying a value. 12. The photoelectric switch according to claim 11, further comprising adjusting means provided on said second outer surface of said casing, for adjusting a value displayed on said display means. 13. The display means is configured to be able to switch and display a plurality of types of values generated based on a light receiving signal from the light receiving means, and wherein the first and second values of the plurality of outer surfaces of the casing are provided. A selecting unit provided on a third outer surface different from the outer surface, for selecting a type of a value to be displayed on the display unit among a plurality of types of values generated based on a light receiving signal from the light receiving unit; The photoelectric switch according to claim 12, wherein: 14. A processing unit for processing a light receiving signal output from the light receiving unit, a storage unit for storing a value generated by the processing unit, and a first and a second of the plurality of outer surfaces of the casing. And a determining means provided on a third outer surface different from the second outer surface, the determining means being configured to determine a value adjusted by the adjusting means as a reference value to be stored in the storage unit. 14. The photoelectric switch according to 12 or 13. 15. A casing provided on a third outer surface different from the first and second outer surfaces of the plurality of outer surfaces of the casing, which is generated based on a light receiving signal from the light receiving means and detects the presence or absence of an object. Setting means for setting an adjustable value as a value relating to the processing of the processing means, wherein the display means displays the adjustable value set by the setting means. The photoelectric switch according to claim 12. 16. A processing means for processing a light receiving signal output from the light receiving means, and a value set by the setting means among values generated based on the processing of the processing means is stored as a reference value. 16. The photoelectric switch according to claim 15, further comprising: a storage unit that stores the adjusted reference value after the adjustment unit adjusts the reference value.