JP2016119495A - Optical device and air blowing method - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an optical device by which an air quantity is controlled more appropriately in comparison with the prior arts, and an air blowing method.SOLUTION: The optical device comprises: an air blower control part which instructs a change in an air blowing amount of an air blower part to the air blower part in order to change a speed of air flowing in a passage; a cooling part for cooling a heat generating portion of an observation equipment part with air flowing in the passage; a temperature detection part for measuring a temperature of the heat generating portion of the observation equipment part; a foreign substance detection part for detecting a foreign substance that is deposited on a light transmission part; and an air blowing amount determination part by which, an air blowing amount of the air blower part that is preset in accordance with the temperature detected by the temperature detection part in the case where the foreign substance detection part detects a foreign substance is compared with an air blowing amount of the air blower part that is preset in accordance with the case where the foreign substance detection part detects a foreign substance, and a comparison result of the air blowing amounts is reported to the air blower control part in such a manner that the air blower part is operated with a greater air blowing amount.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

  The present invention relates to a device for removing foreign matter from a light transmission member of an optical device.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there are those that remove a foreign substance from a light transmitting member of an optical device by cleaning the light transmitting member (protective glass or glass) with a wiper (for example, see Patent Document 1 or 2). In addition, there are those that remove the foreign matter from the light transmission member of the optical device and those that prevent the adhesion of the foreign matter, and those that apply air (air) in the direction or front of the light transmission member (front glass or window glass) ( For example, see Patent Document 3 or 4). In Patent Document 3, wind (air) passes through fins (cooling). Note that Patent Document 5 discloses fins (cooling).

JP-A-5-68191 (FIGS. 2 and 14) Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 7-92538 (FIGS. 1 and 15) Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2000-171878 (FIG. 1) JP 2010-2740 A (FIGS. 1 to 4) JP-A-5-259673 (FIGS. 1 and 2)

  However, the wiper as described in Patent Documents 1 and 2 has a problem that it cannot be applied to an optical device that does not allow periodic replacement of the light transmissive member and scratches on the light transmissive member in that it contacts the light transmissive member. there were. In addition, when air (air) as described in Patent Documents 3 and 4 is applied to the light transmitting member, optimization of air volume control is not sufficiently studied, or the housing of the optical device is waterproof (airtight structure). There was a problem that application examination in the case of.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide an optical device and an air blowing method in which air volume control is more appropriate than in the prior art.

  An optical device according to the present invention includes a light transmission part that receives light from the outside, an observation device part that receives light from the light transmission part, an air blowing port that blows air to the light transmission part, and this air blowing A flow path formed between the mouth and the air suction port, a blower section for generating an air flow from the air suction port to the air blowing port in the flow path, and a change in the speed of the air flowing through the flow path In order to do so, a blower control unit that instructs the blower unit to change the air flow rate of the blower unit, a cooling unit that cools the heat generation part of the observation device unit by the air flowing through the flow path, and the heat generation of the observation device unit A temperature detection unit that measures the temperature of the part, a foreign matter detection unit that detects foreign matter attached to the light transmission unit, and when the foreign matter detection unit detects a foreign matter, depending on the temperature detected by the temperature detection unit , The blower unit is compared with the preset blower amount of the blower unit according to the set blower amount of the blower unit and the foreign matter detection unit detects a foreign matter, and the blower unit with the larger blower amount Is provided with an air flow rate determination unit that transmits a comparison result of the air flow rate to the blower control unit so as to operate.

  The air blowing method according to the present invention generates a flow of air that cools a heat generation portion of an observation device unit that receives light from a light transmission unit on which light from the outside is incident by a blower unit, and by the blower unit, In the air blowing method to the light transmitting member which is the light transmitting part, which generates an air flow to the air blowing port for blowing air to the light transmitting part, temperature detection for detecting the temperature of the heat generation part of the observation instrument part A foreign substance detection step for determining whether or not a foreign substance is attached to the light transmitting portion, and when a foreign substance is detected in the foreign substance detection step, the preset value is set according to the temperature detected in the temperature detection step. Depending on the amount of air blown by the blower unit and when the foreign matter is detected in the foreign matter detecting step, the amount of air blown by the blower unit set in advance is compared. It is characterized by comprising an air flow amount determining step for determining a larger air flow rate, and a fan control step for causing the air blower unit to blow air with the air flow amount determined to be the larger air flow amount in this air flow amount determining step. To do.

  As described above, according to the present invention, when the foreign matter detection unit detects a foreign matter, the blower amount set in advance according to the temperature detected by the temperature detection unit and the foreign matter detection unit is a foreign matter. According to the case where the air flow is detected, it is possible to obtain an optical device that can operate the air blower unit with the larger air flow rate by comparing the air flow rate set in advance.

  According to the present invention, when a foreign object is detected in the foreign object detection step, when a foreign object is detected in the preset blower amount and the foreign object detection step according to the temperature detected in the temperature detection step. Accordingly, it is possible to obtain an air blowing method capable of comparing the blower amount set in advance and determining the larger blower amount.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS It is a block diagram (top view, sectional drawing) of the optical apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. 1 is a configuration diagram (cross-sectional view, side perspective view) of an optical device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. It is sectional drawing of the optical apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an optical device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. It is a functional block diagram of the light transmission part of the optical apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention, and an observation equipment part. It is a functional block diagram of the optical apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a flowchart of the ventilation volume control process of the optical apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a functional block diagram of the principal part in the optical apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a flowchart of the ventilation volume control process of the optical apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a graph which shows the maximum S / N value for every laser irradiation direction distance of the optical apparatus (rider apparatus) which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a graph which shows the maximum S / N value for every elapsed time of the optical apparatus (rider apparatus) which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a flowchart of the ventilation volume control process of the optical apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a flowchart of the ventilation volume control process of the optical apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a flowchart of the ventilation volume control process of the optical apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention.

Embodiment 1 FIG. (Optical device (rider device, imaging device) according to Embodiment 1)
Embodiment 1 of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS. The structure of the optical device (rider device, imaging device) according to the first embodiment will be described using FIGS. 1 to 4, and the optical device (rider device, imaging) according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 to 14. Apparatus) air flow control processing (air blowing method to the light transmission member according to Embodiment 1) will be described. In the present application, “air blowing” is not only the case where most of the air is directly applied to the light transmitting member (light transmitting portion 3 described later), but also the surface of the light transmitting member (light transmitting portion 3 described later). It is assumed that the case where air is allowed to flow around the light transmission member (light transmission part 3 described later) to the extent that foreign matter (water droplets or dust) attached to the surface is blown away is also included.

  1A is a top view of the optical device, FIG. 1B is a cross-sectional view taken along the line AA of the optical device in FIG. 2B, and FIG. 2A is a B- of the optical device in FIG. 2B is a side perspective view of the short side of the optical device, FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the optical device having a film heater, and FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional view along the line AA of the optical device in FIG. It is equivalent. FIG. 4A is a schematic cross-sectional view of the optical device, and corresponds to a cross-sectional view slightly lower than the BB cross section of the optical device in FIG. FIG. 4B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the optical device, which corresponds to the AA cross-sectional view of the optical device in FIG.

  1 to 6, the casing 1 is a rectangular parallelepiped box type and has a waterproof structure (airtight structure). The flow path 2 penetrates the casing 1 and is for ventilation with four sides surrounded by a waterproof structure (airtight structure) of the casing 1. The light transmission part 3 (observation window 3) is a part made of glass or resin, such as a lens or a transparent plate (light transmission part 3) through which light can pass, and is formed in the housing 1. is there. The air blowing port 4 (nozzle portion 4) blows air to the light transmitting portion 3. Specifically, the air blowing port 4 has a nozzle shape, and exhaust (air) from the flow path 2 can be accelerated and blown. Note that one opening 2a of the flow channel 2 communicates with the air blowing port 3, and the other opening 2b of the flow channel 2 is defined as an air suction port 2b. An opening 2a of the flow path 2 is formed on the upper surface of the casing, and an opening 2b (an air inlet 1in described later) of the flow path 2 is formed on the lower surface of the casing. A duct 4d that covers the opening 2a of the flow path 2 is formed on the upper surface of the housing, and the air blowing port 4 is provided in the duct 4d. In the drawings, the same reference numerals denote the same or corresponding parts, and detailed descriptions thereof are omitted.

  1 to 6, a lid 1 c is formed on the side surface of the housing 1. The lid 1c may be formed on both opposing side surfaces of the housing 1, or may be formed on all four side surfaces. In this application, the case where the cover part 1c is formed in both the long side surfaces (both side surfaces) is mainly illustrated. By closing the lid 1c, the lid 1c fits into the frame of the housing. Packing is provided on at least one of the frame of the housing or the lid 1c, and the housing 1 becomes a waterproof structure (airtight structure) by closing the lid 1c. Further, by opening the lid 1c, it is possible to access an observation device unit 6 and a heat generation portion 6h of the observation device unit 6 which will be described later, so that the optical device can be maintained. You may provide the cover part 1c also in the electronic device housing | casing 6e mentioned later. That is, the housing 1 and the electronic device housing 6e have a door-like lid portion 1c for maintenance and maintenance, and the lid portion 1c has a structure that can be hermetically sealed by rubber, silicon packing, or the like. In the drawings, the same reference numerals denote the same or corresponding parts, and detailed descriptions thereof are omitted.

  1 to 6, the air suction port 2b communicates with the air suction port 1in formed on the lower surface of the housing 1 so as to face the air suction port 1b. The opening area of the air suction port 1in (cross-sectional area approximately perpendicular to the direction in which air flows) is larger than the opening area of the air suction port 2b (cross-sectional area approximately orthogonal to the direction in which air flows). A filter may be provided in the air suction port 1 in. The air suction port 2b and the air suction port 1in may be integrated. The blower unit 5 (the fan unit 5 and the blower unit 5) generates an air flow from the air suction port 2b to the air blowing port 3, and is formed inside the duct 4d. The air flowing in the flow path 2 is bent by the duct 4d (in the drawing of the present application, the air bent at a substantially right angle is shown). Air in which this flow is bent is ejected from the air blowing port 4 and blown to the light transmitting portion 3. By the duct 4d, the direction of the air flowing through the flow path 3 can be easily directed to the light transmission part 3 side. Moreover, space saving can be achieved by arrange | positioning the air blower part 5 in the space made of the duct 4d. Even if the blower unit 5 is disposed in the opening 2a, space can be saved. Of course, the blower unit 5 is disposed in the opening 2b (air suction port 1in), the opening 2b (air suction port 1in) side (outside of the opening 2b (air suction port 1in) and outside the housing 1), and in the middle of the flow path 2. May be. In the drawings, the same reference numerals denote the same or corresponding parts, and detailed descriptions thereof are omitted.

  1 to 6, an observation device unit 6 is housed in a housing 1 and receives light from the outside through a light transmission unit 3, and is a lidar device such as a Doppler lidar or an imaging device such as a camera. . The observation device section 6 includes an optical device housing 6p that houses the optical device of the optical device and an electronic device housing 6e that houses the electronic device of the optical device. The light transmitting portion 3 is formed in the optical device casing 6p. Further, the surface of the optical device housing 6 p on which the light transmission part 3 is formed is exposed from the housing 1. That is, the surface of the optical device housing 6 p on which the light transmission part 3 is formed is a part of the outer surface of the housing 1. For this reason, it can be said that the light transmission part 3 is formed in the housing 1. In the present application, one optical device housing 6p and two electronic device housings 6e are arranged in a U-shape (cross-sectional shape almost perpendicular to the direction of air flow) in a U-shape (a pie-shape). It shows what has become. The optical device housing 6p and the electronic device housing 6e may be integrated. In this case, when a portion corresponding to the electronic device housing 6e is opposed via the flow path 2 (a cooling unit 7 to be described later), the cross-sectional shapes of the optical device housing 6p and the electronic device housing 6e ( The cross-sectional shape that is substantially orthogonal to the direction in which air flows is a U-shape (a pie-shape). The cooling unit 7 cools the heat generating portion 6 h of the observation device unit 6 by the fins 7 f formed in the flow path 2. The film heater 3 f is formed in the light transmission part 3. In the drawings, the same reference numerals denote the same or corresponding parts, and detailed descriptions thereof are omitted.

  In the present application, when the fins 7f are directly formed on the heating element 6eh (observation device unit 6), that is, the observation device housing 6e (the heating element 6eh (observation device unit 6)) is connected to the flow path 2 (cooling unit 7). However, the optical device housing 6p may form a part of the flow path 2 (cooling unit 7), or the optical device housing 6p and the observation device. Both of the housings 6e may constitute a part of the flow path 2 (cooling unit 7). The optical device housing 6p and / or the observation equipment housing 6e is formed of the flow path 2 (cooling unit 7). In the case of not constituting a part, the fin 7f may cool a heat generating portion 6h (heat generating body 6eh) of the observation device section 6 described later via a heat pipe (not shown). In this case, the optical device housing 6p and the observation device housing 6e other than the heat pipe and the light transmitting portion 3 are completely housed in the housing 1.

  1 to 6, an observation device unit 6 is housed in a housing 1 and receives light from the outside through a light transmission unit 3, and is a lidar device such as a Doppler lidar or an imaging device such as a camera. . The lidar apparatus includes a scanner unit 6sc, an optical transmission / reception unit 6rt, and a signal processing unit 6s. The imaging device includes an imaging element 6c and a signal processing unit 6s. In FIG. 5, the scanner unit 6sc in the lidar apparatus (observation device unit 6) irradiates the transmitted light to the outside via the light transmitting unit 3, and receives the reflected light reflected by the aerosol. It is. The optical transmission / reception unit 6rt performs transmission / reception processing on the transmission light transmitted by the scanner unit 6sc and the reflected light received by the scanner unit 6sc. The signal processing unit 6s calculates the wind speed from the reception signal of the reflected light received and processed by the optical transmission / reception unit 6rt and the angle signal of the scanner unit 6sc. In the drawings, the same reference numerals denote the same or corresponding parts, and detailed descriptions thereof are omitted.

  In FIG. 5, an image sensor 6 c in the image pickup apparatus (observation device unit 6) is a camera module including an optical sensor such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor). The signal processing unit 6sc performs signal processing on the image signal obtained by the image sensor 6c. In the drawings, the same reference numerals denote the same or corresponding parts, and detailed descriptions thereof are omitted.

  1 to 6, an optical device housing 6p is built in the housing 1, and mainly stores a scanner unit 6sc, an optical transmission / reception unit 6rt, and an image sensor 6c. Of course, part or all of the signal processing unit 6sc may be accommodated. The electronic device housing 6e is built in the housing 1, and mainly stores the signal processing unit 6sc in the observation device unit 6. Of course, the electronic device housing 6e may house a part or all of the scanner unit 6sc, the optical transmission / reception unit 6rt, and the image sensor 6c. Naturally, when the optical device housing 6p and the electronic device housing 6e are integrated, the scanner unit 6sc, the optical transmission / reception unit 6rt (and the image sensor 6c), and the signal processing unit 6sc are accommodated. Further, most of the optical device housing 6p and most of the electronic device housing 6e are arranged so as to face the cooling unit 7 (flow path 2). The electronic device board 6es and the electronic device circuit 6eh (heating element 6eh) are built in the electronic device housing 6e and mainly function as the signal processing unit 6sc.

  Here, the electronic device circuit 6eh (the heating element 6eh) may be referred to as the heat generation portion 6h of the observation device section 6 itself, or may be referred to as a part of the heat generation portion 6h of the observation device section 6. In this case, the scanner unit 6sc and the optical transmission / reception unit 6rt (and the image sensor 6c) in the optical device housing 6p can be said to be a part of the heat generating portion 6h of the observation device unit 6. The electronic device circuit 6eh (heating element 6eh) is disposed so as to face the cooling unit 7 (flow path 2), and the configuration of the electronic device case 6e is provided via the case 1 and the electronic device case 6e. As, it is arrange | positioned closest to the cooling part 7 (flow path 2). In the drawings, the same reference numerals denote the same or corresponding parts, and detailed descriptions thereof are omitted.

  Next, a specific configuration of the optical apparatus (rider apparatus, imaging apparatus) according to Embodiment 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. In the optical device according to Embodiment 1, it can be said that the heat generating portion 6h (heat generating body eh) is disposed inside the portion surrounding the four sides of the flow path 2 in the waterproof structure (airtight structure) of the housing 1. . The heat generating portion 6h (heating element eh) is provided in the optical device housing 6p and the electronic device housing 6e housed in the housing 1, and is a member that generates heat in accordance with the operation of the optical device. The optical device according to the first embodiment is arranged so that such heat generation can be easily transmitted to the fins 7f, and by flowing air through the flow path 2, the heat generating portion 6h (heating element) is provided via the fins 7f. eh) waste heat can be performed.

  The optical device according to Embodiment 1 accelerates the exhaust (air) from the fins 7f by the nozzle 4 through the duct 4d and discharges it to the light transmitting unit 3, thereby transmitting the kinetic energy of the exhaust flow velocity to the light. By using it for cleaning the unit 3, it is possible to save power, reduce the size, and use the optical device continuously by sharing functions. Exhaust is performed on the light transmission part 3 through the duct 4d, but the air taken in from the air suction port 1in (opening 2b) has a speed based on Bernoulli's theorem due to the difference in the opening area of the nozzle part 4. Accelerated, foreign matter such as rain and snow droplets and dust on the light transmission part 3 can be blown off by the exhaust flow, and the light transmission part 3 can be cleaned without human intervention.

  That is, it can be said that the electronic device housing 6e, which is one of the heat generating portions 6h of the main observation device section 6, is disposed inside the portion surrounding the four sides of the flow path 2 in the waterproof structure (airtight structure). . In particular, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, an electronic device housing 6 e that is a heat generation portion 6 h of the main observation device section 6 is a surface that faces a portion that surrounds the four sides of the flow path 2 in the waterproof structure (airtight structure). Is arranged. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 2A, the flow path 2 has a rectangular B-B cross section, and an electronic device casing which is a long side portion of the rectangle and a heat generating portion 6 h of the main observation device unit 6. 6e is arranged facing. In the present application, since there are two electronic device housings 6e, it can be said that the flow path 2 (cooling unit 7) is disposed between the two electronic device housings 6e.

  Similarly, it can be said that the optical device housing 6p, which is one of the heat generating portions 6h of the main observation device section 6, is disposed inside the portion surrounding the four sides of the flow path 2 in the waterproof structure (airtight structure). . In particular, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the optical device housing 6p, which is the heat generating portion 6h of the main observation device section 6, is a surface facing the portion surrounding the four sides of the flow path 2 in the waterproof structure (airtight structure). Is arranged. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 2A, the flow path 2 has a rectangular B-B cross section, and an optical device casing that is a short side portion of the rectangle and a heat generating portion 6 h of the main observation device unit 6. 6p is arrange | positioned facing.

  The outer surface of the optical device housing 6p and / or the electronic device housing 6e may be a part of a portion surrounding the four sides of the flow path 2 in the waterproof structure (airtight structure) of the housing 1. That is, the outer surface of the optical device housing 6p and / or the electronic device housing 6e is exposed from the housing 1. The case where the electronic device board 6es or the electronic device circuit 6eh (heating element 6eh) is arranged on the exposed outer surface is also included. However, the high heat generation electronic elements (CPU (Central Processing Unit), GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), high output amplifier) constituting the heat generator 6eh are not the flow path 2 (cooling section 7) side, but the housing 1 (electronic equipment) The housing 6e) is arranged on the inner side. That is, the fin 7f side of the heat sink with fins (fin 7f) of the heating element 6eh is arranged in the flow path 2.

  When the outer surface of the optical device housing 6p and / or the electronic device housing 6e is exposed from the housing 1, the optical device housing 6p and / or the electronic device housing 6e is fitted into the frame of the housing 1. Therefore, it is necessary to ensure the confidentiality of this part by packing. The heating element 6eh (the electronic device casing 6e or the electronic device substrate 6es) has a larger amount of heat generation than the optical devices (the scanner unit 6sc, the optical transmission / reception unit 6rt, and the imaging device 6c) in the optical device casing 6p. ) Is directly connected to the fin 7f. That is, the heating element 6eh (the electronic device casing 6e or the electronic device substrate 6es) constitutes a part of the flow path 2 while maintaining the waterproof structure of the casing 1. When the fins 7f are not directly connected to the heating element 6eh (the electronic device casing 6e or the electronic device board 6es), it is necessary to carry heat from the heating element 6eh to the fins 7f. For example, a heat pipe can be cited as one responsible for heat conduction. Details will be described later.

  In the drawings of the present application, the electronic device housing 6e and the fins 7f have two configurations, but the electronic device housing 6e may be divided into three or more. Of course, a configuration may be adopted in which a plurality of fins 7f are attached to the electronic device substrate 6es or the electronic device circuit 6eh (heat generating member 6eh) because the heat generating member 6eh is partially separated. It is effective by partially arranging a plurality of fins 7f when the electronic device housing 6e is divided into a plurality of parts or the heating elements 6eh are provided at a plurality of locations due to demand for weight reduction or space saving. Cooling can be performed. By disposing the fins 7f in a concentrated manner, the cooling effect of the fins 7f can be further increased, the waste heat of the electronic device housing 6e can be efficiently performed, and the weight of the fins 7f and the electronic device housing 6e can be reduced. It becomes easy.

  According to the optical device according to the first embodiment, as described above, in particular, compared with the optical device (the scanner unit 6sc, the optical transmission / reception unit 6rt, and the imaging device 6c) in the optical device housing 6p, it has a large output and a high output. Since it is easy to arrange optical devices and signal processing units (electronic device circuit 6eh) that require waste heat in one housing 1 as an electronic device housing 6e, the inside and outside air of the housing 1 Since it is separated from the hollow structure (flow path 2) including the air suction port 1in that passes through, it can be operated continuously while protecting the electronic equipment housing 6e that requires a waterproof / airtight structure, and the high in the waterproof / airtight structure. Waste heat can be implemented.

  When the optical device according to the first embodiment is continuously operated, the optical device housing 6p and the electronic device housing 6e used in the optical device, for example, control of the device and sensor, data processing, optical processing, and the like are used. It is necessary to waste heat. Heat generated in the housing 1 is largely generated by a heating element 6eh (for example, a high-heat-generating electronic element such as the CPU, GPU, or high-power amplifier described above) on the electronic device board 6es in the electronic device housing 6e. It becomes. Generally, high heat generation electronic elements are premised on being forcedly cooled. However, in the case of a waterproof / airtight structure like the housing 1, the outside air cannot be flown, and therefore general forced cooling cannot be performed. . In the optical device according to the first embodiment, the fin 7f is exposed in the hollow portion (the flow path 2 and the cooling unit 7) configured by the fin 7f, so that heat exchange with external air is performed in the housing 1 Of waste heat.

  The ventilation flow path 2 has openings (opening 2a and opening 2b) on the opposing surface (upper surface) and surface (lower surface) of the casing 1 of a waterproof structure (airtight structure) having a rectangular parallelepiped outer shape. In addition, the hollow structure penetrating the housing 1 has a rectangular cross section surrounded by a waterproof structure (airtight structure) on the four sides (a cross section substantially perpendicular to the air flow direction). Further, as shown in FIGS. 1B, 2, 3, and 4, the fin 7 f of the cooling unit 7 has a rectangular BB cross section (FIG. 2A) of the channel 2 that faces the fin 7 f. Each extends from the long side portion.

  As shown in FIGS. 1-4, since the light transmission part 3 is formed in the optical equipment housing | casing 6p (housing 1), the BB cross section (FIG. 2 (a)) of the flow path 2 is a rectangle. It is formed on the short side portion side of the flow path 2. The casing 1 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape, and the light transmission part 3 and one opening of the flow path 2 are arranged on the same surface side. As described above, the flow path 2 has one opening 2a of the flow path 2 and the other opening 2b of the flow path 2 arranged on the opposing surface (upper surface) and surface (lower surface) of the housing 1, respectively. Yes. The opening 2a is narrower than the cross section of the flow path 2 where the fins 7f of the cooling unit 7 are formed (the cross section substantially perpendicular to the air flow direction). The blower unit 5 is disposed between the opening 2 a and the air blowing port 4. The blower unit 5 covers the entire opening 2 a, extends from the opening 2 a to the side of the light transmission unit 3, and the casing 1. As described above, the air blowing port 4 is formed in the duct 4d.

  As shown in FIGS. 1-4, although the air blower part 5 is mounted in the surface where the light transmission part 3 and the opening 2a of the housing | casing 1 are arrange | positioned, you may mount in the duct 4d. The duct 4d has a cross-sectional area that decreases toward the air blowing port 4 side. In particular, FIGS. 1 to 4 show a duct 4d whose cross-sectional area is reduced toward the air blowing port 4 at a portion from the blower unit 5 toward the air blowing port 4. Specifically, the duct 4d has an air blowing port 4, and more than a cross section of the flow path 2 where the fins 7f of the cooling unit 7 are formed (a cross section substantially perpendicular to the direction in which air flows). It can be said that it covers the entire opening 2a of the narrow flow path 2 and is formed in the housing 1 across the opening 2a to the side of the light transmission part 3.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the optical device according to Embodiment 1 includes a film heater 3 f formed in the light transmitting portion 3, and light generated by the heat generated by the film heater 7 f due to air blown from the air blowing port 4. You may make it blow off the water droplet (molten water droplet) on the permeation | transmission part 3. FIG. The signal processing unit 6s performs ON / OFF control of the film heater 7f. The film heater 7f may be turned on (started) / off (stopped) by measuring the outside air temperature outside the housing 1. That is, a temperature detection unit other than the temperature detection unit 6 may be provided in the optical device according to the first embodiment. By disposing the film heater 3f between the light transmission part 3 and the optical device in the optical device housing 6p, the film heater 3f does not affect the observation result of the optical device and in a low temperature environment in winter. By preventing the light transmitting unit 3 from freezing and dew condensation, the optical device can be continuously observed.

  As described above, in the optical device according to the first embodiment, the air sucked by the blower unit 5 is sucked from the air suction port 1in which is the external suction port of the housing 1, and the optical device housing 6p and the electronic device housing 6e. And the heat from the fin 7f is exhausted and exhausted by passing through the hollow structure part constituted by the fin 7f. Thereby, waste heat inside the housing 1 can be made inside the housing 1 without entering outside air, and exhaust used for the waste heat can be used for cleaning the light transmitting portion 3. Thus, it is possible to save power and reduce the number of parts by sharing the functions of No. 5.

  The waterproof / airtight structure of the housing 1 is indicated by a bold broken line in FIG. 2B by fins 7f made of, for example, aluminum directly attached to the housing 1, the electronic device housing 6e, or the electronic device housing 6e. A hollow structure as shown in the figure can be formed inside the housing 1 and separated into a hollow pipe section through which the outside air flows. The outside air taken in from the air suction port 1 in by the action of the blower unit 5 does not pass through the inside of the housing 1, but passes through the hollow pipe line part that is the flow path 2, and is directly blown onto the light transmission part 3. Therefore, the housing 1 of the optical device according to Embodiment 1 has a structure that does not take outside air into the housing 1, and a waterproof and airtight structure can be easily obtained.

  For example, when considering an imaging device that is an optical device such as a lidar device that is a measurement device using a laser, or a camera, the case where the light transmitting portion 3 is disposed on the center line of the housing 1 is more likely to be installed. Even if it is considered effective when taken into consideration, the light transmitting portion 3 is disposed on the center line of the housing 1, and the optical device housing 6p and the electronic device housing 6e are disposed on the drawing of the present application. The optical device according to Embodiment 1 can be implemented by configuring a hollow structure (flow path 2) in the portion that is provided. In other words, in the drawings of the present application, the casing 1 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape, the light transmitting portion 3 and the opening 2a are arranged on the same surface side, and when the same surface is viewed in plan, the opening 2a Is disposed closer to the center than the light transmitting portion 3, but the casing 1 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape, and the light transmitting portion 3 and the opening 2a are disposed on the same surface side. When viewed in plan, the light transmission part 3 may be arranged closer to the center than the opening 2a. The direction in which “the same surface is viewed in plan” is the same as the direction in which air flows in the flow path 2 (strictly, the direction from the opening 2a toward the opening 2b).

  Furthermore, in the optical device according to the first embodiment, a heat pipe may be disposed between the heating element 6eh inside the electronic device housing 6e and the fin 7f to perform heat transport of the heating element 6eh. This is because the waste heat of the electronic device housing 6e is realized by heat transfer between the heating element 6eh and the fin 7f and heat transfer with the fin 7f outside air, but the heating element 6eh and the fin are sandwiched by a thermal sheet or the like. Must be in direct contact. By using the heat pipe, heat transfer between the heating element 6eh and the fin 7f can be performed, and the heating element 6eh and the fin 7f do not need to be in direct contact with each other, and the degree of freedom of the board structure of the electronic device substrate 6es is eliminated. Increase. Further, by disposing the heat pipe between the heating element 6eh inside the electronic device housing 6e and the fins 7f, the housing 1 can be disposed between the electronic device housing 6e and the flow path 2. Moreover, since the restrictions on the layout of the electronic device board 6es are reduced by using the heat pipe, it is possible to increase the degree of freedom of arrangement of the heating elements 6eh on the electronic device board 6es.

  In the drawings of the present application, the light transmitting portion 3 and the opening 2a are arranged on the same surface of the casing 1 having a rectangular parallelepiped shape, and the duct 7d is placed on the surface on which the light transmitting portion 3 and the opening 2a are arranged. However, most of the duct 7d other than the air blowing port 4 may be bitten into the housing 1 so that the surface on which the light transmission part 3 and the opening 2a are arranged may be made substantially flat. This can be achieved by forming a recess for accommodating most of the duct 7d on the surface on which the light transmission part 3 and the opening 2a are arranged. The opening 2a is formed in this depression, and the light transmission part 3 is formed around the depression. Of course, the surface where the light transmission part 3 and the opening 2a are arranged other than the air blowing port 4 may be flattened. Moreover, you may make the inclination part which a cross-sectional area reduces as it goes to the air blowing port 4 side of the duct 7d on the housing | casing 1 side contrary to drawing of this application. Moreover, you may form an inclined part in both the parts which the duct 7d opposes. This is true even when the duct 7d is placed on the surface on which the light transmission part 3 and the opening 2a are arranged as in the drawings of the present application.

Embodiment 1 FIG. (Air blowing amount control processing of the optical device (rider device, imaging device) according to the first embodiment (air blowing method to the light transmitting member according to the first embodiment))
Next, the air flow control processing of the optical device (rider device, imaging device) according to Embodiment 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 5A is a functional block diagram when the optical device is a lidar device, and FIG. 5B is a functional block diagram when the optical device is an imaging device.
FIG. 8A is a functional block diagram of the main part of the lidar apparatus, and FIG. 8B is a functional block diagram of the main part of the imaging apparatus. FIG. 10A is a graph showing the maximum S / N value for each distance in the laser irradiation direction when the threshold value is exceeded. FIG. 10B is a graph showing the maximum S / N value for each laser irradiation direction distance when the threshold is not exceeded. FIG. 11A is a graph showing the maximum S / N value for each elapsed time when the threshold value is exceeded. FIG. 11B is a graph showing the maximum S / N value for each elapsed time when the threshold is not exceeded. “S” shown in FIG. 7, FIG. 9, FIG. 12, FIG. 13, and FIG. In the drawings, the same reference numerals denote the same or corresponding parts, and detailed descriptions thereof are omitted.

  In FIGS. 5, 6, and 8, the blower control unit 8 instructs the blower unit 5 to change the blowing amount of the blower unit 5 in order to change the speed of the air flowing through the flow path 2. As described above, the blower unit 5 has an air suction port 2b (air suction port 1in) in a flow path formed between the air blowing port 4 for blowing air to the light transmission unit 3 and the air suction port 2b (air suction port 1in). ) To the air blowing port 4. The temperature detection unit 9 measures the temperature of the heat generating portion 6h (electronic device circuit 6eh (heating element eh)) of the observation device unit 6. The foreign matter detection unit 10 formed in the signal processing unit 6 s detects foreign matters such as water droplets and dust attached to the light transmission unit 3. Specifically, the foreign matter detection unit 10 detects foreign matter adhering to the light transmission unit 3 from information on light from the outside obtained by the observation device unit 6. Specifically, the light information is used as an image, and the shape of the object, the distance of the object (for example, the distance to the light transmission unit 3 or the distance to the image sensor 6c) and the change of the light information signal Foreign matter on the transmission part 3 is detected. In the drawings, the same reference numerals denote the same or corresponding parts, and detailed descriptions thereof are omitted.

  In FIGS. 5, 6, and 8, the air flow rate determination unit 11 formed in the signal processing unit 6 s is set in advance according to the temperature detected by the temperature detection unit 9 when the foreign object detection unit 10 detects the foreign object. The blower unit 5 is compared with the preset blower amount of the blower unit 5 according to the blown air amount of the blower unit 5 and when the foreign matter detection unit 10 detects the foreign matter, and the blower unit 5 has the larger blower amount. The comparison result of the air flow is transmitted to the blower control unit 8 so as to operate. The blower amount determination unit 11 obtains an information table of the blown amount from the signal processing unit 6s or the outside and uses it for the determination. There are two information tables for the amount of blown air: a table for cooling the heat generating portion 6h (heat generating element 6eh) and a table for removing foreign matter such as water droplets and dust adhering to the light transmitting portion 3. In the present application, the foreign object detection unit 10 and the air flow rate determination unit 11 are illustrated as being formed in the signal processing unit 6s, but at least one of the foreign object detection unit 10 and the air flow rate determination unit 11 is used as the signal processing unit 6s. It may be formed outside. Moreover, in this application, although the air blower control part 8 is formed in the exterior of the signal processing part 6s, you may form the air blower control part 8 in the signal processing part 6s. In the drawings, the same reference numerals denote the same or corresponding parts, and detailed descriptions thereof are omitted.

  Here, a configuration in the case where the observation device unit 6 (the optical device itself) of the optical device according to Embodiment 1 is a lidar device will be described with reference to FIG. As shown in FIG. 5A, the lidar apparatus irradiates the transmission light to the outside via the light transmission unit 3, and receives the reflected light reflected by the aerosol by the transmitted transmission light, the scanner 6sc, the scanner The optical transmission / reception unit 6rt for transmitting / receiving the transmission light transmitted by the unit 6sc and the reflected light received by the scanner unit 6sc, the received signal of the reflected light received by the optical transmission / reception unit 6rt, and the angle signal of the scanner unit 6sc, It is comprised from the signal processing part 6s which calculates a wind speed. The signal processing unit 6s controls the scanner unit 6sc and the optical transmission / reception unit 6rt. Further, the signal processing unit 6s outputs the calculated wind speed and the acquired data to the outside via an interface with the outside such as a LAN (Local Area Network) (external data). The foreign object detection unit 10 includes a maximum value calculation unit 10a, a threshold determination unit 10b, and a time passage determination unit 10c.

  The principle of measuring the atmosphere with a lidar device (Doppler lidar) will be described. The Doppler lidar includes the laser emission window 3, the scanner unit 6sc, the observation device unit 6, and the signal processing unit 6s. In the Doppler lidar configured as described above, the reflected wave of light radiated from the scanner unit 6sc to the air through the laser emission window 3 which is a contact surface with the atmosphere is received again by the scanner unit 6sc. The received light is amplified and frequency converted by the optical transmitter / receiver 6rt to be converted into a reception IF (intermediate frequency) signal. The IF signal is subjected to A / D analog-digital conversion and frequency analysis processing by the signal processing unit 6s, thereby calculating spectrum data and calculating, displaying, and recording a wind speed vector.

  When the observation device unit 6 (optical device itself) of the optical device according to Embodiment 1 is a lidar device, the foreign object detection unit 10 determines that the maximum S / N value within a predetermined time in the received signal has a predetermined threshold value. When it falls below, it detects that the foreign material adhered to the light transmissive part 3. FIG. If the signal processing unit 6s processes the calculated wind speed as a reference value while the foreign matter detection unit 10 detects that the foreign matter has adhered to the light transmission unit 3, the signal processing unit 6s may have a foreign matter in the light transmission unit 3. It becomes easy to eliminate an error in detecting the wind speed due to adhesion.

  In addition, a configuration in the case where the observation device unit 6 (the optical device itself) of the optical device according to Embodiment 1 is an imaging device will be described with reference to FIG. As shown in FIG. 5B, the imaging device includes an imaging device 6c and a signal processing unit 6s that processes an image signal obtained by the imaging device 6c. The signal processing unit 6s controls the image sensor 6c. In addition, the signal processing unit 6s outputs the acquired image data and moving image data to the outside through an interface with the outside such as a LAN (external data). In this case, the foreign matter detection unit 10 detects foreign matter from the image signal signal-processed by the signal processing unit 6s. The foreign object detection unit 10 includes an image processing unit 10d and a foreign object determination unit 10e. That is, the object shape and the object distance (for example, the distance to the light transmission unit 3 or the distance to the image sensor 6c) are determined from the image information by the foreign matter determination unit 10e based on the image signal processed by the image processing unit 10d. It is calculated and the presence or absence of foreign matter adhesion on the light transmission part 3 is determined.

  The observation device unit 6 (rider device or imaging device) is housed in the housing 1, and the light transmission unit 3 is formed in the housing 1. As described above, this is the optical device housing 6p. This includes a case where the light transmitting portion 3 is formed and the surface of the optical device housing 6 p on which the light transmitting portion 3 is formed is exposed from the housing 1 to constitute the outer surface of the housing 1.

  In the optical device shown in FIG. 6, the air flow for cooling the heat generating portion 6 h (heat generating element 6 eh) of the observation device unit 6 that receives light from the light transmitting unit 3 to which light from the outside is incident is generated by the blower unit 5. In addition, the blower unit 5 causes the air to be blown to the light transmitting unit 3 that causes the air to blow to the light transmitting unit 3, and the air blowing method is applied to the light transmitting unit 3 (light transmitting member 3) (according to the first embodiment). The air blowing method to the light transmitting member) is applied.

  The basic operation for cooling the heat generating portion 6h (heat generating element 6eh) of the optical device (observation equipment section 6) shown in FIG. 6 is as shown in the flowchart of FIG. First, in S001, a temperature detection step (temperature information fetching step) for detecting the temperature of the heating portion 6h (heating element 6eh) of the observation device section 6 is performed. And according to the temperature detected by the temperature detection step in S002, the air blower control step which makes the air blower part 5 ventilate with the air flow rate of the air blower part 5 set beforehand is performed. Specifically, the signal processing unit 6s acquires the temperature of the heat generating portion 6h (heat generating element 6eh) of the observation device unit 6 from the temperature detecting unit 9, and the air flow rate of the blower unit 5 set in advance for each temperature. Is selected and the information is sent to the blower control unit 8, and the blower control unit 8 controls the blown amount of the blower unit 5. The blower control unit 8 also controls the ON (start) / OFF (stop) control of the blower unit 5.

  Of course, when the temperature of the heat generating portion 6h (heating element 6eh) does not require cooling, the blower unit 5 is stopped. If the previous state is stopped, continue. In other words, it does not start. Therefore, the preset air volume of the blower unit 5 (according to the detected temperature) includes the case where the air volume is zero. In addition, the preset air flow rate of the blower unit 5 may be such that the air volume gradually increases as the temperature of the heat generating portion 6h (heat generating element 6eh) of the observation device unit 6 increases, or the temperature range is divided into steps. The air volume may increase. The information on the air flow rate (the preset air flow rate of the blower unit 5) corresponds to the cooling table (air flow rate information table) for the heat generating portion 6h (heat generating element 6eh). The processing steps of S001 and S002 may be repeated, or may proceed to S002 when the temperature obtained in S001 has changed from the previous time.

  FIG. 8A is a functional block diagram of the main part when the optical device according to Embodiment 1 is a lidar device. FIG. 8B is a functional block diagram of the main part when the optical device according to Embodiment 1 is an imaging device. In FIG. 8, the foreign substance detection part 10 and the ventilation volume determination part 11 are formed in the signal processing part 6s. The optical device according to the first embodiment shares the blower unit 5 for cooling the heat generating portion 6h (heating element 6eh) of the observation device unit 6 and removing foreign matters such as water droplets and dust adhering to the light transmitting unit 3. is there. Therefore, even when the foreign matter is not attached to the light transmitting portion 3, if the blower unit 5 generates an air volume necessary for blowing off the foreign material, the air volume is generated in the heat generating portion 6h (heat generating body 6eh) of the observation device unit 6. When the air volume necessary for cooling is exceeded, power consumption is wasted. Therefore, it is important to control the air volume of the blower unit 5 depending on the presence or absence of foreign matter in the light transmission unit 3.

  Specifically, a foreign object detection step for determining whether a foreign object is attached to the light transmission unit 3 by the foreign object detection unit 10, and a temperature detection step when a foreign object is detected in the foreign object detection step by the air flow rate determination unit 11 In accordance with the temperature detected in step 5, the air flow rate of the blower unit 5 set in advance and the air flow rate of the blower unit 5 set in advance according to the case where the foreign material is detected in the foreign matter detection step are compared and large. The flow rate determination step for determining the flow rate of the air flow is executed. The order of execution of the foreign matter detection step (S101 to S104 in FIGS. 9 and 12, S201 and S202 in FIGS. 13 and 14) and the temperature detection step (S001) is not limited. Of course, it may be simultaneous. In the foreign matter detection step, foreign matter attached to the light transmitting portion 3 is detected from information on light from the outside obtained by the observation device portion 6.

  And the air blower control part 8 receives the instruction | indication from the air flow volume determination part 11 (signal processing part 6s), and the air blower which makes the air blower part 5 ventilate with the air flow volume determined with the larger air flow volume at the air flow volume determination step. Perform control steps. The preset amount of blown air from the blower unit 5 (according to the detection of foreign matter) means the amount of air that can blow off the foreign matter attached to the light transmission unit 3. Of course, the airflow may be fixed to one type of airflow, or the airflow may be changed according to the type of foreign matter detected (water droplets or dust) or the amount of foreign matter. In this case, when there are many foreign substances or when the foreign substances are mass water droplets, the air volume may be increased. The information on the air flow rate (the preset air flow rate of the blower unit 5) corresponds to a table for removing foreign matters such as water droplets and dust adhering to the light transmission unit 3 (air flow rate information table). .

  First, the case where the optical apparatus according to Embodiment 1 is a lidar apparatus will be described with reference to FIG. 8A and FIGS. In the case where the optical device according to Embodiment 1 is a lidar device, the foreign object detection step is the maximum within a predetermined time in a received signal in which the observation device 6 is a lidar device and receives reflected light reflected by the aerosol. When the S / N value of the light falls below a predetermined threshold value, it is detected that a foreign substance has adhered to the light transmitting portion 3. That is, the foreign matter is detected by utilizing the fact that the S / N value is lowered by the foreign matter. Here, a case where the foreign matter is a water droplet will be described as an example. In the lidar apparatus according to the first embodiment, the signal processing unit 6s detects the presence or absence of water droplets on the light transmission unit 3 (laser emission window 3) based on the reception signal output from the observation device unit 6. When there is no water droplet, the fan is controlled based on the temperature information output from the temperature detector 9 so as to obtain an optimum air volume (FIG. 7). When there is a water drop, the blower unit 5 is controlled to a wind speed at which the water drop can be removed.

  As described above, the lidar apparatus (optical apparatus) according to Embodiment 1 adheres to the light transmission part 3 (laser emission window 3) by the wind used for air cooling of the heat generation part 6h (heating element 6eh) of the observation equipment part 6. It has a mechanism for removing water droplets. A hollow structure is formed by fitting an electronic device housing 6e provided with a fin 7f mechanism on both sides of the cavity in the center of the housing 1 (the flow channel 2 is formed by fitting the electronic device housing 6e). The air taken in by the part 5 is flowed to cool the heat generating part 6h (heat generating element 6eh). Furthermore, water droplets, snow, and the like can be removed by increasing the wind speed of the air taken by squeezing the nozzle portion 4 and blowing it to the light transmission portion 3 (laser emission window 3).

  The operations of cooling the heat generating portion 6h (heat generating element 6eh) of the lidar device (optical device) according to the first embodiment and removing the foreign matter from the light transmitting portion 3 (laser emission window 3) are as shown in the flowchart of FIG. . First, the received signal received from the optical transceiver 6rt is input to the maximum value calculator 10a, and the maximum value is set to the maximum value for the S / N (signal level to noise level) data of the input received signal. The calculation unit 10a calculates (S101 and S102). The concept of the determination in S103 is shown in FIGS. FIG. 10A shows a case where it is determined that there is no rain. FIG. 10B shows a case where it is determined that there is rainfall. In S103, the threshold determination unit 10b compares with the maximum S / N value input from the maximum value calculation unit 10a, and determines that there is rain if the maximum S / N value ≦ the threshold. In this case, the process proceeds to S104. In other cases, it is determined that there is no rainfall. In this case, the process proceeds to S001, and only the cooling of the heat generating portion 6h (heat generating element 6eh) is performed by performing the basic operation shown in FIG.

  In S104, when the information with rainfall is output from the threshold value determination unit 10b, the time lapse determination unit 10c monitors whether or not the normal state with rainfall continues for a certain period of time, and determines the presence or absence of rain. The concept of the determination in S104 is shown in FIGS. FIG. 11A shows a case where “no rain” is determined when a maximum S / N value equal to or higher than a specified ratio exceeds a threshold within a specified time. FIG. 11B shows a case where it is determined that “rainfall is present” when the maximum S / N value equal to or higher than the specified ratio does not exceed the threshold within the specified time.

  When the information from the time passage determination unit 10c indicates that there is no rainfall, the blower amount determination unit 11 proceeds to S001 and performs only the cooling of the heat generating portion 6h (heating element 6eh) by performing the basic operation shown in FIG. Of course, if the temperature of the heat generating portion 6h (heat generating element 6eh) does not exceed a threshold value (temperature at which cooling is required), a command not to operate the blower unit 5 is issued, and if it exceeds, a command to operate the blower unit 5 is issued. Output to the blower control unit 8.

  In addition, when the information from the time lapse determining unit 10c includes rain, the air flow determining unit 11 outputs a command for operating the blower unit 5 regardless of the temperature of the heat generating part 6h (heat generating element 6eh). In S001, the temperature of the heat generating portion 6h (heat generating body 6eh) is acquired. When a foreign object is detected in the foreign object detection step by the air flow determination unit 11 in step S112 (air flow determination step), the feeding of the blower unit 5 set in advance according to the temperature detected in the temperature detection step is performed. In accordance with the air volume and the case where the foreign object is detected in the foreign object detection step, the air volume of the blower unit 5 set in advance is compared, and the larger air volume is determined. Then, the blower control unit 8 outputs an operation command or an instruction to change the air volume to the blower unit 5 in accordance with an instruction from the blowing amount determination unit 11 based on the determination result.

  After the blower control step of the air blowing method to the light transmitting member according to the first embodiment (the air blowing method according to the first embodiment), the blower unit 5 is instructed to determine (determine) the amount of air that has been determined (determined). And the foreign material of the light transmissive part 3 can be removed by performing the air blowing step which blows the air by the air blower part 5 from the air blowing port 4 (nozzle part 4) based on this instruction | indication. The air blowing method to the light transmission member according to the first embodiment (the air blowing method according to the first embodiment) may include this air blowing step.

  In the present application, since the relationship between the air volume required for cooling the heat generating portion 6h (heat generating body 6eh) and the air volume required for water droplet removal is “the air volume during maximum heat generation> the air volume for water droplet removal”, FIG. As shown in the flowchart, the processing steps of S001 and S002 may be performed before S101. In this way, by performing S001 and S002 first, the start of cooling of the heat generating portion 6h (heat generating element 6eh) can be accelerated. Of course, the processing of the flowchart shown in FIG. 12 may be performed even in the case of “the air volume at maximum heat generation <the air volume for removing water droplets”.

  Here, when the air blowing method to the light transmitting member according to the first embodiment (the air blowing method according to the first embodiment) is arranged, the S / N ratio data is read in the S / N ratio data reading step (S101). Read. For the input S / N ratio data, the maximum value of the S / N ratio data captured in the maximum value calculation step (S102) is calculated. Next, the process proceeds to a threshold determination step (S103), where the threshold and the maximum value of the S / N ratio data are compared. If the maximum value ≦ the threshold, the process proceeds to the time lapse determination step (S104), and the maximum value> the threshold. Performs a temperature information fetching step (S001) and performs an air flow determining step 1 (S002). On the other hand, in the time lapse determination step (S104), if the maximum value ≦ the threshold value within the specified time range, the process proceeds to the temperature information fetching step (S001), where the temperature information (heating part 6h (heating element) 6eh) is taken in, and the process proceeds to the air flow determination step 2 (S112). The process of S112 is as described above.

  Next, the case where the optical device according to Embodiment 1 is an imaging device will be described with reference to FIG. 8B, FIG. 13 and FIG. When the optical apparatus according to Embodiment 1 is an imaging apparatus, the foreign object detection step is such that the observation device unit 6 is an imaging apparatus and detects a foreign object from an image signal obtained by the imaging apparatus. That is, a foreign object is detected from the image. As described above, the imaging device (optical device) according to Embodiment 1 is configured to transmit the light transmitting unit 3 (the lens 3 or the lens protection plate 3) with the wind used for air cooling of the heat generating portion 6h (heat generating element 6eh) of the observation device unit 6. It has a mechanism for removing water droplets adhering to (). A hollow structure is formed by fitting an electronic device housing 6e provided with a fin 7f mechanism on both sides of the cavity in the center of the housing 1 (the flow channel 2 is formed by fitting the electronic device housing 6e). The air taken in by the part 5 is flowed to cool the heat generating part 6h (heat generating element 6eh). Furthermore, water droplets, snow, and the like can be removed by increasing the wind speed of the air taken by squeezing the nozzle portion 4 and spraying it on the light transmitting portion 3 (the lens 3 or the lens protection plate 3).

  The operations of cooling the heat generating portion 6h (heat generating element 6eh) and removing the foreign matter from the light transmitting portion 3 (lens 3 or lens protection plate 3) of the imaging device (optical device) according to Embodiment 1 are shown in the flowchart of FIG. Street. First, in S201, the signal processing unit 6s (image processing unit 10d) captures an image signal (image data) from the imaging element 6c. Next, in S202, the image processing unit 10d performs image processing on the image signal and sends an image or a moving image to the foreign matter determination unit 10e. The foreign matter determination unit 10e determines the shape of the target object, the distance from the target object, or the like. The presence or absence of foreign matter is determined from the above.

  When the information from the foreign matter determination unit 10e indicates that there is no foreign matter, the blower amount determination unit 11 proceeds to S001 and performs only the cooling of the heat generating portion 6h (heat generating body 6eh) by performing the basic operation shown in FIG. Of course, if the temperature of the heat generating portion 6h (heat generating element 6eh) does not exceed a threshold value (temperature at which cooling is required), a command not to operate the blower unit 5 is issued, and if it exceeds, a command to operate the blower unit 5 is issued. Output to the blower control unit 8.

  In addition, when the information from the foreign matter determination unit 10e contains foreign matter, the blower amount judgment unit 11 outputs an operation command for the blower unit 5 regardless of the temperature of the heat generating portion 6h (heat generating body 6eh). In S001, the temperature of the heat generating portion 6h (heat generating body 6eh) is acquired. When a foreign object is detected in the foreign object detection step by the air flow determination unit 11 in step S112 (air flow determination step), the feeding of the blower unit 5 set in advance according to the temperature detected in the temperature detection step is performed. In accordance with the air volume and the case where the foreign object is detected in the foreign object detection step, the air volume of the blower unit 5 set in advance is compared, and the larger air volume is determined. Then, the blower control unit 8 outputs an operation command or an instruction to change the air volume to the blower unit 5 in accordance with an instruction from the blowing amount determination unit 11 based on the determination result.

  In the present application, the relationship between the air volume required for cooling the heat generating portion 6h (heat generating element 6eh) and the air volume required for removing the foreign matter is “the air volume at the maximum heat generation> the air volume for removing the foreign matter”. As shown in the flowchart, the processing steps of S001 and S002 may be performed before S201. In this way, by performing S001 and S002 first, the start of cooling of the heat generating portion 6h (heat generating element 6eh) can be accelerated. Of course, the processing of the flowchart shown in FIG. 14 may be performed even in the case of “the air volume at the maximum heat generation <the air volume for removing foreign matter”.

  The foreign matter detection unit 10 in the optical device according to the first embodiment does not detect foreign matter attached to the light transmission unit 3 from the information of the external light obtained by the observation device unit 6, but the light transmission unit 3 itself. A foreign matter detection unit 10 may be provided by providing a pressure sensor, or a foreign matter detection unit 10 may be provided by providing a detection sensor outside the housing 1. Of course, the foreign matter detection step in the air blowing method to the light transmitting member according to the first embodiment (the air blowing method according to the first embodiment) is based on the information on the light from the outside obtained by the observation device unit 6. Instead of detecting the foreign matter attached to the part 3, the foreign matter attached to the light transmission part 3 is detected from the information of the pressure sensor provided in the light transmission part 3 or the information of the detection sensor provided outside the housing 1. It may be detected.

  Further, when the film heater 3f is added to the optical device according to the first embodiment, when the film heater 7f is turned on (activated) by the outside air temperature outside the housing 1, regardless of the determination of the foreign matter detection unit 10. Moreover, you may make it make the determination from which the ventilation volume determination part 3 removes a foreign material (water droplet). Thereby, water droplets generated by the heat of the film heater 7f can be blown off even before observation by the observation device unit 6. Further, even when the optical device according to Embodiment 1 does not have the film heater 3f, before observation by the observation device unit 6 (when the observation device unit 6 is activated), regardless of the determination of the foreign matter detection unit 10, or Without making the determination of the foreign matter detection unit 10, the air is blown from the air blowing port 4 (nozzle unit 4) to the light transmission unit 3, so that the foreign object is not in the light transmission unit 3 before the observation by the observation device unit 6. Even if it is attached, it can be blown off in advance, and observation by the observation device section 6 can be performed smoothly. In other words, the optical device according to Embodiment 1 may blow air from the air blowing port 4 (nozzle part 4) to the light transmission part 3 at the time of activation. Of course, the air volume at this time is such as to blow off the foreign matter adhering to the light transmission portion.

  In such a case, in the former case, in the air blowing method (the air blowing method according to the first embodiment) according to the first embodiment, before the S101 or S201 or S001, the film heater 3f is used. When there is a film heater ON / OFF determination step for determining ON (start) / OFF (stop) and the film heater 3f is OFF, the process proceeds to S101, S201, or S001. When the film heater 3f is ON, the process proceeds to an air spraying step (molten water droplet removal step) air spraying step). This air blowing step (molten water droplet removing step) is also performed by controlling the blower unit 5 by the signal processing unit 6s (the blowing amount determination unit 11), similarly to the above-described air blowing step. Thereafter, S101, S201, or S001 is executed. If it is the latter, in the air blowing method (the air blowing method according to the first embodiment) according to the first embodiment, the air blowing step (start-up air blowing step, before S101, S201, or S001) And a foreign matter removal step at the time of start-up. In this air spraying step (starting air spraying step, starting foreign matter removing step), the signal processing unit 6s (blowing amount determination unit 11) is a blower as in the above-described air spraying step and air spraying step (molten water droplet removal step). Control is performed by the unit 5.

  When the optical device according to the first embodiment is installed in a place away from a house, damage to birds and beasts is also assumed. In such a case, an effect of avoiding birds and beasts can be expected by using a structure that generates a loud sound when air is blown from the air blowing port 4 (nozzle portion 4). Of course, by adding a function of a whistle to the air blowing port 4 (nozzle part 4), a larger thing can be caused when air is blown, so that the effect of birds and beasts can be further increased. Further, the timbre may be changed by changing the air volume over time. However, since it should not be less than the amount of air necessary for removing foreign matter from the light transmitting portion 3 and cooling the heat generating portion 6h (heat generating body 6eh), when changing the air volume, the minimum amount of air is removed from the light transmitting portion 3 or generated heat. It is necessary to set the air volume necessary for cooling the portion 6h (heating element 6eh). In particular, the air volume necessary for cooling the heat generating portion 6h (heat generating body 6eh) should not be reduced below.

  Therefore, after the blower control step of the air blowing method to the light transmitting member according to the first embodiment (the air blowing method according to the first embodiment), air from the blower unit 5 is supplied from the air blowing port 4 (nozzle unit 4). By adding an air blowing step to blow, birds and beasts can be repelled. In this case, it can be said that the air blowing step is a birds and animals repelling step. Bird and beast damage includes excrement from small animals such as birds and insects. Of course, the bird and animal repelling step may be performed separately from the presence or absence of foreign matter adhering to the light transmitting portion 3 and the cooling of the heat generating portion 6h (heat generating body 6eh). Also in this case, the bird and beast repelling step is performed by the signal processing unit 6s (the blowing amount determination unit 11) controlling the blower unit 5.

  As described above, the optical device (rider device, imaging device) according to Embodiment 1 can be used for outdoor use because the heat generating portion 6h (heat generating element 6eh) is not exposed. In addition, waste heat air can be used effectively without being used only for waste heat. On the other hand, in Patent Document 5, it is necessary to provide an air intake from the outside of the housing to the inside of the housing, and it is necessary to have a structure in which the inside of the housing and the outside are directly connected. For example, it could not be used in a housing installed in a place where salt water directly hits the sea. In addition, the fan itself is limited only to cooling use, which is a loss of energy used in the entire casing.

  In Patent Document 3, the inside of the housing and the outside of the housing are separated, but the fin itself is not exposed to the outside, and only the effect of lowering the atmospheric temperature inside the housing is not a problem for cooling the high heat source itself. . The optical device (rider device, imaging device) according to the first embodiment targets an observation device and a plurality of high-heat-generation electronic device housings that control the observation device, and is premised on the use of a powerful cooling fan. However, conflicting problems such as waterproof / confidential structure, weight reduction, long life, and low power consumption can be solved.

  In the optical device (rider device, imaging device) according to Embodiment 1, a cooling unit is provided to a continuously used electronic device while having a housing structure resistant to an external environment such as rainwater, seawater, and snow. Waste hot air used only for cooling can be used to remove rain and snow adhering to the housing 1. A feature of the optical device (rider device, imaging device) according to the first embodiment is that the fin 7f is arranged outside the confidential structure of the hollow portion of the housing 1 and the waterproof structure is provided by the layout in which the confidential portion is separated by the hollow structure. It is possible to cool a plurality of electronic housings as they are, and the waste hot air after cooling can be used as it is for removing rain and snow. Conventionally, there has been a case where only the observation equipment is stored in a waterproof / airtight enclosure and placed outdoors, and the electronic equipment is separated and used indoors. However, the optical device (rider device) according to Embodiment 1 has been used. Due to the effect of the imaging device), it is possible to reduce the size of an observation device that can be waste heat even if it has a plurality of electronic units, and that affects the observation results, for example, due to changes in the external natural environment. And power saving can be realized.

  The optical device (rider device, imaging device) according to Embodiment 1 has an observation device inside, has electronic devices for controlling the observation device, and is waterproof to protect the observation device from changes in outdoor environmental conditions. An observation device housing having an airtight structure, the observation device having an observation window 3 on the wall surface of the housing 1 and cooling the electronic device in a state where the external air and the internal air are disconnected by heat transfer. And a fan 7f attached to the housing 1 and a duct 4d for discharging the wind generated by the fan to the observation window 3 of the observation equipment. It is characterized by comprising a door (lid portion 1c) that can be opened and closed for maintenance of the internal electronic device.

  The duct of the optical device (rider device, imaging device) according to the first embodiment is a fan for accelerating the wind generated by the fan unit 5 for the purpose of removing dust and water droplets attached to the observation window 3 when discharged. It has a smaller aperture than the opening of the portion 5.

  The lidar device is a kind of weather radar. In the Doppler lidar system that measures the wind direction and the wind speed from the ground to the sky using laser light, the landing and snow landing on the laser launch window 3 block the laser light and observe it. There is a problem that causes significant degradation in performance. Conventionally, removal by a wiper has been performed, but during the wiper scanning, light is blocked, the laser emission window 3 is scratched, and the maintenance period is shortened due to the durability of the wiper rubber. Further, when rainwater, snow, or the like adheres to the laser emission window 3, the emitted laser light is interrupted, and the observation performance is significantly deteriorated. The lidar apparatus according to the first embodiment is characterized in that there is no influence by blowing off unnecessary objects such as water droplets and snow on the laser emission window 3 by wind power.

1 ・ ・ Housing, 1in ・ ・ Air suction port (air suction port), 1c ・ ・ Cover part, 2 ・ ・ Flow path, 2a ・ ・ Opening, 2b ・ ・ Opening (air suction port), 3 ・ ・ Light transmission Parts (light transmission member, observation window, laser emission window, lens, transparent plate, lens protection plate), 3f ·· film heater, 4 · · air blowing port (nozzle part), 4d · · duct, · · · blower part (Fan part, blower part), 6 ... Observation equipment part, 6h ... Heat generation part, 6sc ... Scanner part, 6rt ... Optical transmission / reception part, 6s ... Signal processing part, 6c ... Imaging element, 6p ... Optical equipment casing, 6e ... Electronic equipment casing, 6es ... Electronic equipment board, 6eh ... Electronic equipment circuit (heating element), 7 ... Cooling part, 7f ... Fin, 8 .... Blower control part, 9・ ・ Temperature detector, 10 ・ ・ Foreign matter detector, 10a ・ ・ Maximum value calculator, 10b ・Threshold determination unit, 10c ... time determining unit, 10d ... image processing unit, 10e ... foreign matter determination unit, 11 ... air blowing amount determination unit.

Claims (14)

  A light transmission part that receives light from the outside, an observation device part that receives light from the light transmission part, an air blowing port that blows air to the light transmission part, and between the air blowing port and the air suction port A flow path formed in the flow path, a blower section for generating an air flow from the air suction port to the air blowing port in the flow path, and a blower section for changing the speed of the air flowing through the flow path. A blower control unit that instructs the blower unit to change the air volume, a cooling unit that cools the heat generation part of the observation device unit by the air flowing through the flow path, and a temperature detection that measures the temperature of the heat generation part of the observation device unit And a foreign matter detector for detecting foreign matter attached to the light transmission portion, and the blower portion set in advance according to the temperature detected by the temperature detector when the foreign matter detector detects foreign matter. of The blower control is performed so that the blower unit is operated with a larger blown amount by comparing a preset blower amount of the blower unit according to an air volume and when the foreign matter detection unit detects a foreign matter. The optical apparatus provided with the ventilation volume determination part which conveys the comparison result of ventilation volume to a part.   The observation device unit is a lidar device, which irradiates transmission light to the outside through the light transmission unit, and receives the reflected light reflected by the aerosol from the transmitted transmission light, and the scanner unit An optical transmission / reception unit that performs transmission / reception processing of transmission light transmitted by the scanner unit and reflected light received by the scanner unit, and a reception signal of the reflected light received by the optical transmission / reception unit and an angle signal of the scanner unit The optical apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: a signal processing unit that calculates.   The said foreign material detection part detects that the foreign material adhered to the said light transmissive part, when the maximum S / N value within the predetermined time in the said received signal is less than a predetermined threshold value. Optical device.   The optical device according to claim 3, wherein the signal processing unit processes the calculated wind speed as a reference value while the foreign matter detection unit detects that a foreign matter has adhered to the light transmission unit.   The optical device according to claim 1, wherein the foreign matter detection unit detects foreign matter attached to the light transmission unit from information on light from the outside obtained by the observation device unit.   The observation device unit is an imaging device, and includes an imaging device and a signal processing unit that performs signal processing on an image signal obtained by the imaging device, and the foreign object detection unit is an image that is signal-processed by the signal processing unit. The optical apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a foreign object is detected from the signal.   The optical apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the observation device unit is housed in a housing, and the light transmission unit is formed in the housing.   The optical device according to claim 7, wherein the casing has a waterproof structure, and the flow path is formed through the casing and is surrounded by the waterproof structure on all sides.   The blower unit generates an air flow that cools the heat generation portion of the observation device unit that receives light from the light transmission unit to which light from the outside is incident, and the air blows air to the light transmission unit by the blower unit. In the method of blowing air to the light transmitting member, which is the light transmitting part, which causes an air flow to the blowing port, a temperature detecting step for detecting the temperature of the heat generating part of the observation device part, and a foreign matter in the light transmitting part A foreign matter detection step for determining whether or not a foreign matter is attached, and when a foreign matter is detected in the foreign matter detection step, the blower amount of the blower unit set in advance according to the temperature detected in the temperature detection step, and the A blower amount determination for comparing the blower amount set in advance in the blower unit and determining the larger blower amount according to the case where a foreign matter is detected in the foreign matter detection step. Step and, in this air volume determination step, many people blow amount and the determined air blowing method and a blower control step of blowing the air blower unit in the blast volume of.   The foreign object detection step is performed when the observation device unit is a lidar device, and a maximum S / N value within a predetermined time in a reception signal obtained by performing reception processing of reflected light reflected by the aerosol falls below a predetermined threshold value. The air spraying method according to claim 9, wherein it detects that a foreign matter has adhered to the light transmission part.   The air blowing method according to claim 9, wherein in the foreign object detection step, the observation device unit is an imaging device, and detects the foreign material from an image signal obtained by the imaging device.   The air blowing method according to claim 9, wherein the foreign matter detection step detects foreign matter attached to the light transmission portion from information on light from the outside obtained by the observation device portion.   The air blowing method according to any one of claims 9 to 12, wherein when the observation device unit is activated, the blower unit causes an air flow to an air blowing port for blowing air to the light transmitting unit. An air blowing method having an air blowing step at the time of starting air blowing to the transmission part.   The air blowing method according to any one of claims 9 to 13, wherein after the blower control step, the blower unit is configured to blow air to the light transmission part by the blower unit with the air volume determined in the blown amount determination step. An air spraying method comprising an air spraying step of generating an air flow and spraying air onto a light transmitting portion.

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