JP4288390B1 - Lighting equipment for vending machines - Google Patents

Abstract

An illumination device for a vending machine that can contribute to energy saving is provided.
In the vending machine illumination device according to the present embodiment, a user / position detection program (step S300) detects whether there is a user approaching the vending machine, and the user detects it. If not (S400; No), the brightness of the plurality of light emitting diodes is set to low brightness (50% of the maximum brightness), and if a user is detected (S400; Yes), Based on the position information detected by the position detection program (step S300), the brightness of the light emitting diode that illuminates the product sample with the smallest separation distance from the user among the plurality of product samples by the high brightness illumination program (step S500). Is set to high brightness (approximately 100%).
[Selection] Figure 6

Description

  The present invention relates to an illumination device for a vending machine provided with a plurality of light emitting diodes that are arranged in a row or the like and illuminate with a spotlight at least for each product sample in a display space in the vending machine. Is.

As an illumination device for a vending machine that illuminates a product sample or product panel of a vending machine with an illumination device such as a fluorescent lamp, for example, there is a technology that considers energy saving as disclosed in Patent Document 1 below. In this conventional technique, a plurality of human body detection sensors having different detection distances are provided on the front surface of the vending machine, and when both human body detection sensors are not outputting detection signals, all the fluorescent lights are turned off and the detection distances are reduced. When the long human body detection sensor outputs a detection signal, the uppermost fluorescent lamp is turned on. After that, when the human body detection sensor having a short detection distance outputs a detection signal, the remaining fluorescent lamps are also turned on.
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 10-283544

  That is, in the conventional technique disclosed in Patent Document 1, only the uppermost fluorescent lamp is turned on when the user of the vending machine is away, and the remaining fluorescent lamps are also turned on when the user approaches. However, when the user approaches the vending machine, all the lights are turned on after all.

  For this reason, for the sample of the product that the user does not show interest at the time of selecting the product, although the illumination for the sample is originally unnecessary, all the illumination is turned on in the above prior art. There is room for improvement in terms of efficiency and energy saving.

  In addition, when there is no user in the vicinity of the vending machine, there is a technology that flashes a fluorescent light to alert the user, increase the willingness to purchase, and contribute to energy saving. For users who have seen vending machines, is the vending machine intentionally blinking such lights, or is it causing such unscheduled blinks due to the life of fluorescent lamps, etc. It is difficult to judge.

  For this reason, a user who misunderstands that the flashing of the fluorescent lamp is unscheduled due to the life of the fluorescent lamp may give the impression that the maintenance of the vending machine may be insufficient. There is a problem of reducing the willingness to purchase.

The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide an illumination device for a vending machine that can contribute to energy saving.
Another object of the present invention is to provide an illumination device for a vending machine that can increase a user's willingness to purchase.

  In order to achieve the above object, the means described in claim 1 described in claims is adopted. According to this means, a user detection means, a position detection means, and an illumination control means are provided. Then, the lighting control means sets (1a) the brightness of the plurality of light emitting diodes to a predetermined low brightness when the user is not detected by the user detecting means, and (1b) the user is detected by the user detecting means. If detected, based on the position information detected by the position detection means, the brightness of the light emitting diode that illuminates the product sample with the smallest separation distance from the user among the plurality of product samples is higher than a predetermined low luminance Set to a predetermined high brightness.

  That is, (1a) If there is no user near the vending machine, dim each spotlight that illuminates each product sample, and (1b) If there is a user near the vending machine The spotlight that illuminates the product sample closest to the user is made brighter than the spotlight that illuminates other product samples. The “product sample” refers to a container, box or package itself of a product sold by the vending machine or a model of these shapes (the same applies hereinafter).

  This reduces (1a) the power consumption of each light-emitting diode when there is no user near the vending machine, while (1b) when there is a user near the vending machine. The power consumption of the light-emitting diode that illuminates the product sample (usually a product sample that is likely to be selected by the user) closer to the user than other product samples is increased. Does not consume extra power even for light emitting diodes that illuminate product samples of products that are not of interest when selecting products.

  Moreover, in order to achieve the said objective, the means of Claim 2 as described in a claim is employ | adopted. According to this means, a user detection means, a position detection means, and an illumination control means are provided. And (2a) when the user is not detected by the user detection means, the illumination control means sets the brightness of at least one light emitting diode of the plurality of light emitting diodes to a predetermined high brightness, and the remaining light emission The luminance of the diode is set to a predetermined ultra-low luminance that is extremely lower than the predetermined high luminance, and the positional relationship between the light-emitting diode set to the predetermined high luminance and the light-emitting diode set to the predetermined ultra-low luminance is The brightness of multiple light-emitting diodes is controlled so that they are randomly switched or sequentially switched to one side of the arranged row, and (2b) control is interrupted if a user is detected by the user detection means Then, based on the position information detected by the position detection means, the light emitting diode that illuminates the product sample with the smallest separation distance from the user among the plurality of product samples Set the brightness to a predetermined high brightness, a predetermined low luminance or a predetermined ultra-low luminance, between a predetermined high luminance and a predetermined ultra-low luminance and sets a luminance of the remaining light-emitting diodes.

  That is, (2a) if there is no user near the vending machine, brighten at least one of the spotlights that illuminate each product sample and make the remaining spotlights much more Darken so that the positions of the bright spotlight and the very dark spotlight are switched randomly, or in turn toward one side of the row where the light emitting diodes are placed, (2b) the vending machine When there is a user nearby, such light and dark control is interrupted, and the spotlight that illuminates the product sample closest to the user is made brighter than the spotlight that illuminates other product samples.

  (2a) When there is no user in the vicinity of the vending machine, the power consumption is extremely small except for one or more bright light emitting diodes. it can. In addition, since the product sample is illuminated so that it flows randomly or in one direction, if there is no user near the vending machine, the automatic vending machine Appeal that the vending machine is located or in operation or call attention. On the other hand, (2b) if there is a user in the vicinity of the vending machine, the product sample that the user is approaching compared to other product samples (usually likely to be selected by the user) The power consumption of the light emitting diode that illuminates the product sample of the product is increased, so that no extra power is consumed even for the light emitting diode that illuminates the product sample of the product that the user does not care about when selecting the product.

  Furthermore, the means described in claim 3 described in claims is adopted. According to this means, the user detecting means includes a modulating means, a light receiving means, and a demodulating means. When the user is detected, the demodulating means causes a signal component of a predetermined frequency to be substantially continuous for a predetermined time or more. Extracting continuously for a predetermined number of times or extracting a signal component of a predetermined frequency for a predetermined number of times within a predetermined time.

  That is, since the light emitting diode that irradiates the spotlight has a signal component of a predetermined frequency superimposed on the current, the spotlight is modulated (light modulation) by the signal component of the predetermined frequency. For this reason, when the light receiving signal output from the light receiving means is demodulated by the demodulating means and a signal component of a predetermined frequency is extracted, the incident light is modulated by a spotlight (utilized by the signal component of the predetermined frequency). Therefore, it can be detected that there is a user near the vending machine. When the demodulating means extracts the signal component of the predetermined frequency substantially continuously for a predetermined time or more or continuously for a predetermined number of times, or when the signal component of the predetermined frequency is extracted a predetermined number of times or more within a predetermined time, the user The detecting means detects the user.

  Thereby, since the spotlight which illuminates the product sample is also used as a sensor light source for user detection, it is not necessary to provide, for example, an infrared light emitting diode in the sensor light source. For this reason, since it is not necessary to light an infrared light emitting diode separately as a sensor light source, it can contribute to further energy saving. Moreover, not only can the space for providing such a sensor light source be saved, but also the number of parts can be reduced and the product cost can be reduced.

  In addition, when the extraction of the signal component of the predetermined frequency is temporary without being substantially continuous for a predetermined time or more, or without being continuous for a predetermined number of times, or less than a predetermined number of times within a predetermined time Since the user is not detected by the user detection means, for example, a pedestrian who simply passes in front of or near the vending machine is erroneously detected as a user of the vending machine. Can be prevented. That is, it is possible to detect a person who stops in front of or near the vending machine as a user and not detect a pedestrian who is not so as a user.

  Furthermore, the means described in claim 4 described in the claims is adopted. According to this means, the user detecting means comprises a plurality of individual modulating means, a plurality of individual light receiving means, and a plurality of individual demodulating means, and when a user is detected, any of the plurality of individual demodulating means The signal component of a predetermined frequency is extracted almost continuously for a predetermined time or continuously for a predetermined number of times, or a signal component of a predetermined frequency is extracted for a predetermined number of times within a predetermined time by one individual demodulator. That is.

  That is, since each light emitting diode that irradiates a spotlight has a signal component of a predetermined frequency that is different for each light emitting diode superimposed on each current, each spotlight is modulated by a signal component of a different predetermined frequency. (Light modulation) is applied. For this reason, when the light receiving signal output by the individual light receiving means is demodulated by the individual demodulating means and the signal component of a predetermined frequency is extracted, the incident light is modulated by the signal component of the predetermined frequency. (Spotlight reflected to the user). Then, the signal component of the predetermined frequency is extracted almost continuously for a predetermined time or more, or continuously for a predetermined number of times, or a signal component of the predetermined frequency by any one of the plurality of individual demodulation units Is extracted a predetermined number of times within a predetermined time, the user detecting means detects the user.

  Thereby, since the spotlight which illuminates the product sample is also used as a sensor light source for user detection, it is not necessary to provide, for example, an infrared light emitting diode in the sensor light source. For this reason, since it is not necessary to light an infrared light emitting diode separately as a sensor light source, it can contribute to further energy saving. Moreover, not only can the space for providing such a sensor light source be saved, but also the number of parts can be reduced and the product cost can be reduced.

  In addition, when the extraction of the signal component of the predetermined frequency is temporary without being substantially continuous for a predetermined time or more, or without being continuous for a predetermined number of times, or less than a predetermined number of times within a predetermined time Since the user is not detected by the user detection means, for example, a pedestrian who simply passes in front of or near the vending machine is erroneously detected as a user of the vending machine. Can be prevented. That is, it is possible to detect a person who stops in front of or near the vending machine as a user and not detect a pedestrian who is not so as a user.

Furthermore, the means described in claim 5 described in claims is adopted. According to this means, the position detection means includes a plurality of individual modulation means, a plurality of individual light receiving means, and a plurality of individual demodulation means, and any one of the plurality of individual demodulation means has a predetermined frequency. Individual light reception corresponding to one individual demodulating means when a signal component is extracted substantially continuously for a predetermined time or more or continuously for a predetermined number of times, or a signal component of a predetermined frequency is extracted for a predetermined number of times within a predetermined time. those corresponding to the product sample which means is illuminated on the individual light receiving means spotlight was the source of the incident reflected light to the information about the position are al provided, or the individual light receiving means corresponding to one individual demodulating means illuminated spotlight with information about the position the light emitting diode was irradiated with was the source of the incident reflected light spotlight is al provided Those corresponding to the product sample that, becomes the position information.

That is, since each light emitting diode that irradiates a spotlight has a signal component of a predetermined frequency that is different for each light emitting diode superimposed on each current, each spotlight is modulated by a signal component of a different predetermined frequency. (Light modulation) is applied. For this reason, when the light receiving signal output by the individual light receiving means is demodulated by the individual demodulating means and the signal component of a predetermined frequency is extracted, the incident light is modulated by the signal component of the predetermined frequency. (Spotlight reflected to the user). Then, any one of the plurality of individual demodulation means extracts the signal component of the predetermined frequency substantially continuously for a predetermined time or more or continuously for a predetermined number of times, or the signal component of the predetermined frequency is predetermined. when extracted a predetermined number of times or more in time, the vicinity of the position the individual light receiving means corresponding to the one individual demodulation means are found provided or spotlight was the source of the incident reflected light into its individual light receiving means, Nearby locations irradiated light emitting diodes are al provided, on so the user is highly probable that close to the vending machine, it is possible to detect the position information which the user is present.

  Thereby, since the spotlight which illuminates the product sample is also used for the sensor light source for position detection, it is not necessary to provide, for example, an infrared light emitting diode in the sensor light source. For this reason, since it is not necessary to light an infrared light emitting diode separately as a sensor light source, it can contribute to further energy saving. Moreover, not only can the space for providing such a sensor light source be saved, but also the number of parts can be reduced and the product cost can be reduced.

  Further, the means described in claim 6 described in claims is adopted. According to this means, the user detecting means comprises a modulating means, a light receiving means, and a demodulating means. When the user is detected, the demodulating means makes the predetermined code waveform almost continuously for a predetermined time or a predetermined number of times. That is, it is extracted continuously or a predetermined code waveform is extracted a predetermined number of times within a predetermined time.

  That is, since a predetermined code waveform is superimposed on the current of the light emitting diode that irradiates the spotlight, the spotlight is modulated (optical modulation) by the predetermined code waveform. Therefore, when the received light signal output from the light receiving means is demodulated by the demodulating means and a predetermined code waveform is extracted, the incident light is reflected by a spotlight (reflected by the user) modulated by the predetermined code waveform. Spot light), it can be detected that a user is present near the vending machine. When the predetermined code waveform is extracted almost continuously for a predetermined time or more than a predetermined number of times by the demodulation means, or when the predetermined code waveform is extracted a predetermined number of times within a predetermined time, the user detecting means is used. Detect people.

  Thereby, since the spotlight which illuminates the product sample is also used as a sensor light source for user detection, it is not necessary to provide, for example, an infrared light emitting diode in the sensor light source. For this reason, since it is not necessary to light an infrared light emitting diode separately as a sensor light source, it can contribute to further energy saving. Moreover, not only can the space for providing such a sensor light source be saved, but also the number of parts can be reduced and the product cost can be reduced.

  In addition, if the extraction of the predetermined code waveform is temporary without being almost continuous for a predetermined time or more than a predetermined number of times, or when it is less than the predetermined number of times within a predetermined time, it is used. Since the user is not detected by the person detection means, for example, it is possible to prevent erroneous detection of a pedestrian who simply passes in front of or near the vending machine as a user of the vending machine. . That is, it is possible to detect a person who stops in front of or near the vending machine as a user and not detect a pedestrian who is not so as a user.

  Furthermore, the means described in claim 7 described in claims is adopted. According to this means, the user detecting means comprises a plurality of individual modulating means, a plurality of individual light receiving means, and a plurality of individual demodulating means, and when a user is detected, any of the plurality of individual demodulating means The predetermined code waveform is extracted approximately continuously for a predetermined time or continuously for a predetermined number of times by one individual demodulating means, or the predetermined code waveform is extracted for a predetermined number of times within a predetermined time.

  That is, since each light emitting diode that irradiates a spotlight has a predetermined code waveform that is different for each light emitting diode superimposed on each current, each spotlight is modulated with a different predetermined code waveform (light modulation). Is applied. For this reason, when the light reception signal output from the individual light receiving means is demodulated by the individual demodulation means and a predetermined code waveform is extracted, the incident light is converted into a spotlight (to the user) modulated by the predetermined code waveform. Reflected spotlight). Then, by one of the plurality of individual demodulation means, the predetermined code waveform is extracted substantially continuously for a predetermined time or more, or continuously for a predetermined number of times, or the predetermined code waveform is within a predetermined time. When a predetermined number of times are extracted, the user detection means detects the user.

  Thereby, since the spotlight which illuminates the product sample is also used as a sensor light source for user detection, it is not necessary to provide, for example, an infrared light emitting diode in the sensor light source. For this reason, since it is not necessary to light an infrared light emitting diode separately as a sensor light source, it can contribute to further energy saving. Moreover, not only can the space for providing such a sensor light source be saved, but also the number of parts can be reduced and the product cost can be reduced.

  In addition, if the extraction of the predetermined code waveform is temporary without being almost continuous for a predetermined time or more than a predetermined number of times, or when it is less than the predetermined number of times within a predetermined time, it is used. Since the user is not detected by the person detection means, for example, it is possible to prevent erroneous detection of a pedestrian who simply passes in front of or near the vending machine as a user of the vending machine. . That is, it is possible to detect a person who stops in front of or near the vending machine as a user and not detect a pedestrian who is not so as a user.

Furthermore, the means described in claim 8 described in the claims is adopted. According to this means, the position detection means comprises a plurality of individual modulation means, a plurality of individual light receiving means and a plurality of individual demodulation means, and the predetermined code waveform is obtained by any one of the plurality of individual demodulation means. Is extracted substantially continuously for a predetermined time or more, or continuously for a predetermined number of times, or when a predetermined code waveform is extracted for a predetermined number of times within a predetermined time, an individual light receiving means corresponding to one individual demodulation means is provided . Information corresponding to the product sample illuminated by the spotlight that is the source of the reflected light incident on the individual light receiving means , or reflected light incident on the individual light receiving means corresponding to one individual demodulating means the product swatch emitting diode was irradiated with a spotlight was the source is illuminated in the spotlight with information about the position are found provided Corresponding ones, is a position information.

That is, since each light emitting diode that irradiates a spotlight has a predetermined code waveform that is different for each light emitting diode superimposed on each current, each spotlight is modulated with a different predetermined code waveform (light modulation). Is applied. For this reason, when the light reception signal output from the individual light receiving means is demodulated by the individual demodulation means and a predetermined code waveform is extracted, the incident light is converted into a spotlight (to the user) modulated by the predetermined code waveform. Reflected spotlight). Then, any one of the plurality of individual demodulation means extracts the predetermined code waveform substantially continuously for a predetermined time or more, or continuously for a predetermined number of times, or the predetermined code waveform is predetermined within a predetermined time. when extracted more times, luminescence irradiated with this one individual demodulation means near positions corresponding individual light receiving means are found provided on or spotlight was the source of the reflected light incident to the individual light receiving means, since the vicinity of the position diodes are al provided, the user to have a high probability approaching to the vending machine, it is possible to detect the position information which the user is present.

  Thereby, since the spotlight which illuminates the product sample is also used for the sensor light source for position detection, it is not necessary to provide, for example, an infrared light emitting diode in the sensor light source. For this reason, since it is not necessary to light an infrared light emitting diode separately as a sensor light source, it can contribute to further energy saving. Moreover, not only can the space for providing such a sensor light source be saved, but also the number of parts can be reduced and the product cost can be reduced.

  In the invention of claim 1, (1a) when there is no user near the vending machine, the power consumption of each light emitting diode is reduced, while (1b) there is a user near the vending machine. In some cases, the power consumption of the light-emitting diode that illuminates the product sample (usually a product sample that is likely to be selected by the user) closer to the user than other product samples is increased. The power consumption is not consumed even for the light-emitting diode that illuminates the product sample of the product that the user does not show interest in selecting the product. Therefore, since the illumination which illuminates the product sample of the product with a low possibility of being selected by the user is not unnecessarily brightened, it is possible to make more efficient energy saving and contribute to energy saving.

  In the invention of claim 2, (2a) when there is no user near the vending machine, the power consumption is extremely small except for one or more bright light emitting diodes. Power consumption can be reduced. In addition, since the product sample is illuminated so that it flows randomly or in one direction, if there is no user near the vending machine, the automatic vending machine Appeal that the vending machine is located or in operation or call attention. On the other hand, (2b) if there is a user in the vicinity of the vending machine, the product sample that the user is approaching compared to other product samples (usually likely to be selected by the user) The power consumption of the light emitting diode that illuminates the product sample of the product is increased, so that no extra power is consumed even for the light emitting diode that illuminates the product sample of the product that the user does not care about when selecting the product. Therefore, since the illumination which illuminates the product sample of the product with a low possibility of being selected by the user is not unnecessarily brightened, it is possible to make more efficient energy saving and contribute to energy saving. In addition, it is possible to alert a user who is away from the vending machine to make a purchase opportunity for the product (improve the effect of attracting customers) and to increase the willingness to purchase.

  In the invention of claim 3, since the spotlight for illuminating the product sample is also used as a sensor light source for user detection, it is not necessary to provide an infrared light emitting diode, for example, in the sensor light source. For this reason, since it is not necessary to light an infrared light emitting diode separately as a sensor light source, it can contribute to further energy saving. Moreover, not only can the space for providing such a sensor light source be saved, but also the number of parts can be reduced and the product cost can be reduced. In addition, when the extraction of the signal component of the predetermined frequency is temporary without being substantially continuous for a predetermined time or more, or without being continuous for a predetermined number of times, or less than a predetermined number of times within a predetermined time Since the user is not detected by the user detection means, for example, a pedestrian who simply passes in front of or near the vending machine is erroneously detected as a user of the vending machine. Can be prevented. That is, it is possible to detect a person who stops in front of or near the vending machine as a user and not detect a pedestrian who is not so as a user.

  In the invention of claim 4, since the spotlight that illuminates the product sample is also used as a sensor light source for user detection, it is not necessary to provide an infrared light emitting diode, for example, in the sensor light source. For this reason, since it is not necessary to light an infrared light emitting diode separately as a sensor light source, it can contribute to further energy saving. Moreover, not only can the space for providing such a sensor light source be saved, but also the number of parts can be reduced and the product cost can be reduced. In addition, when the extraction of the signal component of the predetermined frequency is temporary without being substantially continuous for a predetermined time or more, or without being continuous for a predetermined number of times, or less than a predetermined number of times within a predetermined time Since the user is not detected by the user detection means, for example, a pedestrian who simply passes in front of or near the vending machine is erroneously detected as a user of the vending machine. Can be prevented. That is, it is possible to detect a person who stops in front of or near the vending machine as a user and not detect a pedestrian who is not so as a user.

  In the invention of claim 5, since the spotlight that illuminates the product sample is also used as a sensor light source for position detection, it is not necessary to provide an infrared light emitting diode, for example, in the sensor light source. For this reason, since it is not necessary to light an infrared light emitting diode separately as a sensor light source, it can contribute to further energy saving. Moreover, not only can the space for providing such a sensor light source be saved, but also the number of parts can be reduced and the product cost can be reduced.

  In the invention of claim 6, since the spotlight that illuminates the product sample is also used as a sensor light source for user detection, it is not necessary to provide an infrared light emitting diode, for example, in the sensor light source. For this reason, since it is not necessary to light an infrared light emitting diode separately as a sensor light source, it can contribute to further energy saving. Moreover, not only can the space for providing such a sensor light source be saved, but also the number of parts can be reduced and the product cost can be reduced. In addition, if the extraction of the predetermined code waveform is temporary without being almost continuous for a predetermined time or more than a predetermined number of times, or when it is less than the predetermined number of times within a predetermined time, it is used. Since the user is not detected by the person detection means, for example, it is possible to prevent erroneous detection of a pedestrian who simply passes in front of or near the vending machine as a user of the vending machine. . That is, it is possible to detect a person who stops in front of or near the vending machine as a user and not detect a pedestrian who is not so as a user.

  In the invention of claim 7, since the spotlight that illuminates the product sample is also used as a sensor light source for user detection, it is not necessary to provide an infrared light emitting diode, for example, in the sensor light source. For this reason, since it is not necessary to light an infrared light emitting diode separately as a sensor light source, it can contribute to further energy saving. Moreover, not only can the space for providing such a sensor light source be saved, but also the number of parts can be reduced and the product cost can be reduced. In addition, if the extraction of the predetermined code waveform is temporary without being almost continuous for a predetermined time or more than a predetermined number of times, or when it is less than the predetermined number of times within a predetermined time, it is used. Since the user is not detected by the person detection means, for example, it is possible to prevent erroneous detection of a pedestrian who simply passes in front of or near the vending machine as a user of the vending machine. . That is, it is possible to detect a person who stops in front of or near the vending machine as a user and not detect a pedestrian who is not so as a user.

  In the invention of claim 8, since the spotlight that illuminates the product sample is also used as a sensor light source for position detection, it is not necessary to provide an infrared light emitting diode, for example, in the sensor light source. For this reason, since it is not necessary to light an infrared light emitting diode separately as a sensor light source, it can contribute to further energy saving. Moreover, not only can the space for providing such a sensor light source be saved, but also the number of parts can be reduced and the product cost can be reduced.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of a lighting device for a vending machine according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. First, the configuration of a vending machine equipped with the vending machine illumination device according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 1 is an explanatory view of a vending machine as viewed from the front, FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line II-II, and FIG. 3 is an explanatory view showing a configuration example of a lighting unit. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of the sensor unit.

  Note that the vending machine lighting device according to the present embodiment is configured by the control unit 20, the lighting units 30a and 30b, and the sensor units 40a and 40b, as can be seen from the block diagram shown in FIG. These are assembled in a distributed manner on the outer door 11 of the vending machine. Therefore, these will be described as appropriate while explaining the configuration of the vending machine.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the vending machine mainly includes a main body 10 and an outer door 11 attached to the front surface of the main body 10 so as to be freely opened and closed. The main body 10 is provided with an unillustrated product storage for stocking products, a control mechanism for controlling discharge, cooling, and heating of products.

  The outer door 11 is provided with an exhibition space S in which a plurality of product samples M can be displayed at the upper portion thereof. In this embodiment, for example, there is an exhibition space S in which five product samples M can be displayed in the horizontal direction. It is configured in two upper and lower stages. In this embodiment, as the product sample M, for example, a can container for coffee drinks (internal capacity 190 g) and a PET bottle container for soft drinks (internal capacity 200 ml) are assumed. Instead of such a product sample M, a product panel in which a product form such as a can container is three-dimensionally expressed in a convex shape on a plastic plate may be stored in the exhibition space S.

  Further, below the outer door 11, an outlet 19 configured to be able to take out a product selected by the user is provided, and on the upper side, that is, between the exhibition space S and the outlet 19, An advertising panel P is provided that can advertise advertisements regarding products and the like. In addition, the outer door 11 is provided with basic components of a vending machine such as an insertion hole 18 for a user to insert coins and a selection button 17 for selecting a product desired to be purchased.

  Although not shown, a control unit 20 that controls the illumination units 30a and 30b, the sensor units 40a and 40b, and the like is assembled on the back side of the outer door 11. This configuration will be described later.

  The exhibition space S is a space for storing the product sample M so that the user can visually recognize it through the window 14, and the upper wall 12a, the lower wall 12b, the right wall 12c, the left wall 12d, the rear wall 12e and A partition is formed by the window 14.

  The upper display space S has a width of, for example, five standard soft drinks and coffee drinks M having a diameter of 50 mm to 70 mm arranged in the horizontal direction (width direction of the vending machine) with a margin. It is set to a length that can be displayed, and its height is set to about 2.5 times the height (for example, about 100 mm) of a can container having an internal volume of about 200 g (200 ml).

  On the other hand, the lower display space S is set to have the same width as the upper display space S, but the height is lower than the upper display, for example, approximately twice the height of a can container having an internal capacity of about 200 g. Is set to The lower wall 12b forming the upper display space S and the upper wall 12a forming the lower display space S share the same member due to the configuration of the outer door 11.

  The window 14 is made of an optically (at least visually) transparent member such as a transparent acrylic plate, for example, and is configured so that the user can recognize the product sample M in the exhibition space S through the window 14. Yes.

  In the upper and lower display spaces S formed in this way, the lighting units 30a and 30b constituting the display stand 13 and the vending machine lighting device (the lighting unit 30a is the upper display space S and the lighting unit 30b is the lower side). An exhibition space S) is provided.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the display stand 13 has a cross-sectional “U” shape and is set to a width on which the product sample M can be placed in contact with the lower wall 12b and the rear wall 12e. It extends over the entire width direction. Thereby, the product sample M can be placed on the display stand 13. When the above-described product panels are stored in the exhibition space S, these product panels are directly attached to the rear wall 12e, and thus the display table 13 is not provided.

  The lighting units 30a and 30b together with sensor units 40a and 40b, which will be described later, constitute a vending machine lighting device, and are provided on the upper wall 12a of the upper and lower exhibition spaces S as shown in FIGS. It has been. The lighting units 30a, 30b are positioned above the window 14 side (toward the window 14) from the outermost end (window side outermost end) Eg of the product sample M displayed on the display table 13 on the window 14 side. (Closed).

  The illumination units 30a and 30b are assembled to a strip (or strip) long and thin printed wiring board (hereinafter referred to as "illumination board") 31 and the illumination board 31, as shown in FIG. The driver circuit 33, the light emitting diode 35 with high luminance illumination, the oscillation circuit 37, the control circuit 38, and the like. Hereinafter, the lighting unit 30a will be described as a representative, but the lighting unit 30b is similarly configured unless otherwise specified.

  That is, as shown in FIG. 3B, the lighting unit 30a includes a plurality of (for example, five in this embodiment) light emitting diodes 35, and a drive in which the light emitting diodes 35 are modulated at a predetermined frequency. A plurality of driver circuits 33 for supplying current, a plurality of oscillation circuits 37 for supplying different modulation signals to the plurality of driver circuits 33, and the magnitude of the drive current supplied by the plurality of driver circuits 33 are controlled. And a control circuit 38.

  The light emitting diode 35 emits white light developed for illumination. The light emitting diode 35 emits light with a luminance of several thousand lx (lux), for example, 2500 lx to 4000 lx, and expands in a fan shape at a predetermined angle (radiation angle). L. In the present embodiment, the light emitting diodes 35 are placed on the illumination substrate 31 at an interval substantially equal to the display interval of the product sample M, for the quantity of the product sample M displayed in one exhibition space S (5 in the present embodiment). Has been implemented. In FIG. 2, the symbol “Lf” is attached to the spotlight (illumination light) emitted from the light emitting diode 35, and the symbol “Lr” is attached to the reflected light reflected from the user W.

  The driver circuit 33 is a circuit that supplies a driving current to the light emitting diode 35. In this embodiment, the driver circuit 33 performs amplitude modulation on the driving current using a modulation signal having a predetermined frequency input from the oscillation circuit 37 (a signal component having a predetermined frequency). And a function capable of controlling the drive current value stepwise in accordance with a control signal input from the control circuit 38. The symbol “TB” shown in FIG. 3B represents a power line for driving current supplied to the driver circuit 33 and the like.

  That is, the driver circuit 33 does not simply supply a driving current to the light emitting diodes 35, but individually applies amplitude modulation to the driving currents supplied to the plurality of light emitting diodes 35 at different frequencies f1 to f5. Is supplied to the light emitting diode 35. As a result, the spotlight L emitted from the light emitting diode 35 undergoes so-called light modulation because the luminance changes in intensity according to the modulation frequency. The modulation frequency of this light modulation is fixed for each driver circuit 33 by an oscillation circuit 37 described later.

  The driver circuit 33 can control the magnitude of the drive current of the light emitting diode 35 in a plurality of stages. In the present embodiment, for example, when the vicinity of the maximum value of the drive current that can be supplied to the light emitting diode 35 is almost 100%, half (50%), 1/5 (20%), or extinguish (0%). It is composed of transistors, CMOS switches and the like so as to be controllable in four stages.

  The modulation of the drive current by the driver circuit 33 has a high frequency as described below (for example, several kilohertz to several tens of kilohertz), so that the spotlight L of the light emitting diode 35 is There is no visual sense of flickering or blinking.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the presence of the user of the vending machine is detected by receiving the reflected light Lr of the spotlight L by the light emitting diode 35 by the sensor units 40a and 40b as will be described later. Therefore, the light emitting diode 35 is not turned off (0%) in the time zone or place where illumination by the vending machine illumination device is necessary, and the sensor unit 40a or the like does not reflect the reflected light Lr of the spotlight L. Lights up with sufficient brightness to receive light.

  In this embodiment, the driver circuit 33 applies amplitude modulation to the drive current of the light emitting diode 35. For example, the driver circuit 33 can apply frequency modulation and phase modulation to the drive current of the light emitting diode 35. May be configured. The driver circuit 33 may correspond to “modulation means” or “plural individual modulation means” recited in the claims.

  The oscillation circuit 37 is configured by, for example, a ceramic vibrator or an LC circuit so as to be able to generate (oscillate) a modulation signal to be supplied to the driver circuit 33. In the present embodiment, the oscillation circuit 37 corresponds to five light emitting diodes 35. The five oscillation circuits 37 are set to different oscillation frequencies. For example, the frequencies f1 to f5 that are unlikely to interfere with each other are set, such as 5 kHz (f1), 7 kHz (f2), 11 kHz (f3), 17 kHz (f4), and 23 kHz (f5). The “frequency that is unlikely to interfere with each other” here refers to a frequency that does not match any other frequency even if any frequency is multiplied by an integer or divided by an integer.

  In this embodiment, the modulation frequency is set to several kilohertz to several tens of kilohertz because of the limit of the response speed (switching speed) due to the semiconductor characteristics of the light emitting diode 35. However, the response speed of the light emitting diode 35 is increased. Depending on the above, the modulation frequency may be set higher than this.

  In the present embodiment, the modulation frequency for the five light emitting diodes 35 is set to 5 kHz (f1), 7 kHz (f2), 11 kHz (f3) as described above for the illumination unit 30a provided in the upper display space S. ), 17 kHz (f4), 23 kHz (f5), but for the lighting unit 30b provided in the lower exhibition space S, the modulation frequencies for the five light emitting diodes 35 are 31 kHz (f6), 19 kHz (f7). ), 13 kHz (f8), 8 kHz (f9), and 3 kHz (f10) so as not to interfere with the frequency of the lighting unit 30a. As a result, as will be described later, the sensor units 40a and 40b distinguish which one of the plurality of reflected light Lr of the received spotlight L is from the light emitting diode 35 of the spotlight L. Therefore, it is possible to more accurately estimate the product (product sample M) that the user W is paying attention to.

  The control circuit 38 outputs control signals to the plurality of driver circuits 33 described above according to control signals T1 to T5 composed of parallel data output from the control unit 20 described later. The control circuit 38 is configured by, for example, a logic circuit. Yes.

  For example, when five pieces of 2-bit data are required for one light emitting diode 35, the control signals T1 to T5 are set to 10-bit parallel data. In this embodiment, when the light emitting diode 35 emits light at the maximum luminance (approximately 100% (predetermined high luminance)), the 2-bit data is set to “11”, and half the luminance (50 of the maximum luminance). % (Predetermined low luminance)), the 2-bit data is set to “10”. Furthermore, when the light is emitted darker than that, for example, 20% of the maximum luminance (predetermined ultra low luminance), the 2-bit data is set to “01”, and when the light emitting diode 35 is turned off, it is set to “00” To do.

  Then, for example, numbers # 1 to # 5 are assigned to the five light emitting diodes 35, the control signal T1 is supplied to the # 1 light emitting diode 35, and the control signals T2 and # 3 are supplied to the light emitting diode 35 of # 2. When control signal T3 is assigned to 35, control signal T4 is assigned to light emitting diode 35 of # 4, and control signal T5 is assigned to light emitting diode 35 of # 5, respectively, 10-bit parallel data output as control signals T1 to T5 Is set to “0111010101”, control is performed so that the # 2 light emitting diode 35 emits light with high luminance (approximately 100% luminance) and the other light emitting diodes 35 emit light with ultra low luminance (20% luminance). It becomes possible.

  In the present embodiment, the output map is defined as one corresponding to the 10-bit parallel data, and the CPU 21 of the control unit 20 to be described later writes (sets) predetermined data in the output map. The brightness of the five light emitting diodes 35 can be controlled.

  By configuring the lighting units 30a and 30b in this way, a part of the spotlight L irradiated from the lighting units 30a and 30b illuminates the product sample M between the product sample M and the user W, and the product sample. It is possible to irradiate the front of M toward the user W with the remainder. That is, as shown in FIG. 2, the spotlight L illuminates the front of the product sample M and hits the user W approaching the vending machine (symbol “Lf” shown in FIG. 2). The irradiation light Lf hitting W is reflected by the user W and becomes reflected light Lr toward sensor units 40a and 40b described later.

  In the present embodiment, the mounting positions and mounting angles of the lighting units 30a and 30b (or spotlights by the light emitting diodes 35) are set so that the illumination light Lf reaches the distance d of, for example, 50 cm to 1 m from the front surface of the vending machine. L irradiation angle and range) are set (see FIG. 12).

  In FIG. 2, for easy understanding of the relationship between the irradiation light Lf and the reflection light Lr, the irradiation light Lf and the reflection light Lr are illustrated for the spotlight L of the illumination unit 30 a provided in the upper exhibition space S. The illustration of the irradiation light Lf and the reflected light Lr for the spotlight L of the illumination unit 30b provided in the lower exhibition space S is omitted, but the irradiation light Lf and the reflected light Lr of the illumination unit 30b are also shown. It is almost the same as the lighting unit 30a.

  Further, in FIG. 2, as will be described, the reflected light Lr of the spotlight L of the illumination unit 30 a provided in the upper display space S is detected by the sensor unit 40 a provided on the upper side of the advertisement panel P. (The reflected light Lr of the spotlight L of the illumination unit 30b provided in the lower exhibition space S is detected by the sensor unit 40b provided below the advertisement panel P).

  Returning to FIG. 1 again, in this embodiment, sensor units 40a and 40b are provided on the back side of the advertising panel P provided below the exhibition space S. More specifically, the sensor unit 40a is provided on the upper side of the advertisement panel P, and the sensor unit 40b is provided on the lower side of the advertisement panel P. The sensor units 40a and 40b are assembled to a strip (or strip) long and thin printed wiring board (hereinafter referred to as “sensor substrate”) 41 and the sensor substrate 41, for example, as shown in FIG. The amplifier circuit 43, the photodiode 45, the filter circuit 47, the A / D conversion circuit 48, and the like.

  That is, as shown in FIG. 4B, the sensor units 40a and 40b have a number corresponding to a plurality of (for example, five in this embodiment) light emitting diodes 35, that is, five photodiodes 45, The plurality of amplifier circuits 43 that amplify the sensor currents (light reception signals) output from the photodiodes 45 with a predetermined gain and the sensor currents (light reception signals) output from the plurality of amplification circuits 43 are individually different. The filter circuit 47 includes a plurality of filter circuits 47 that extract signal components having a predetermined frequency, and an A / D conversion circuit 48 that converts analog signals output from the plurality of filter circuits 47 into digital values. Hereinafter, the sensor unit 40a will be described as a representative, but the sensor unit 40b is similarly configured unless otherwise specified.

  The photodiode 45 can output a current proportional to the amount of received light. In this embodiment, the spotlight irradiated from the light emitting diode 35 of the illumination unit 30a (in the case of the sensor unit 40b, the illumination unit 30b) is used. The light receiving surface of the photodiode 45 is mounted on the sensor substrate 41 so as to be exposed to the outside through a small-diameter through hole such as a pinhole formed in the advertisement panel P so that the L reflected light Lr can be received. Yes. For this reason, the sensor current output from the photodiode 45 changes in magnitude according to the modulation frequency subjected to the light modulation, and thus the modulation signal can be demodulated by detecting the frequency of this current fluctuation. . The photodiode 45 can correspond to “light receiving means” or “a plurality of individual light receiving means” recited in the claims.

  The amplifier circuit 43 is a circuit that amplifies the sensor current (light reception signal) output from the photodiode 45 with a predetermined gain. In this embodiment, five amplifier circuits 43 are provided corresponding to the number of the photodiodes 45. If a phototransistor is used instead of the photodiode 45, the amplifier circuit 43 can be omitted. The symbol “RB” shown in FIG. 4B represents a power line for driving current supplied to the amplifier circuit 43 and the like.

  The filter circuit 47 is configured by, for example, an LC circuit or an operational amplifier (in the case of an active filter) so that a signal component of a predetermined frequency can be extracted from the sensor current (light reception signal) output from the amplifier circuit 43 and output as a sensor signal. Is. That is, as described above, since the modulation signal can be demodulated by detecting the fluctuation frequency of the sensor current, the frequency number characteristic of the filter circuit 47 can extract the signal component having the frequency matching the modulation frequency. Is set.

  For example, in the example of the lighting unit 30a described above, the frequency of the modulation signal by the oscillation circuit 37 is set to five types (5 kHz, 7 kHz, 11 kHz, 17 kHz, and 23 kHz). For the sensor unit 40a provided on the upper side, the five filter circuits 47 are separately provided with signal components of 5 kHz (f1), 7 kHz (f2), 11 kHz (f3), 17 kHz (f4), and 23 kHz (f5). Is configured to be extractable.

  Further, in the example of the lighting unit 30b described above, the frequency of the modulation signal by the oscillation circuit 37 is set to five types (31 kHz, 19 kHz, 13 kHz, 8 kHz, 3 kHz) different from that of the lighting unit 30a. Correspondingly, for the sensor unit 40b provided on the lower side of the advertisement panel P, the five filter circuits 47 are separately provided at 31 kHz (f6), 19 kHz (f7), 13 kHz (f8), and 8 kHz (f9). ) The signal component of 3 kHz (f10) can be extracted.

  Thereby, for example, when the photodiode 45 of the illumination unit 30a receives the reflected light Lr of the spotlight L modulated at 11 kHz (f3) and outputs a sensor current (light reception signal), the photodiode 45 The filter circuit 47 corresponding to the above outputs a sensor signal to the A / D conversion circuit 48. That is, in the sensor unit 40a, it is possible to distinguish which one of the plurality of reflected lights Lr of the received spotlight L is from the light emitting diode 35 that is emitted from the spotlight L.

  In the present embodiment, in order to simplify the configuration, the driver circuit 33 performs amplitude modulation and the filter circuit 47 can extract a specific frequency component. However, for example, the drive current of the light emitting diode 35 can be extracted. When the driver circuit 33 is configured to be able to apply frequency modulation and phase modulation to the circuit, a demodulation circuit corresponding to the type of modulation, such as one capable of demodulating a frequency modulation signal or phase modulation signal, instead of the filter circuit 47 Is provided. The filter circuit 47 may correspond to “demodulation means” or “a plurality of individual demodulation means” recited in the claims.

  The A / D conversion circuit 48 can convert sensor signals (analog signals) output from the plurality of filter circuits 47 into digital signals, and can latch the outputs R1 to R5 at a predetermined timing (for example, every 10 mSec). For example, the number of filter circuits 47 is made up of comparison circuits such as comparators and state holding circuits such as flip-flops.

  That is, the sensor signal output from each filter circuit 47 is binarized (“1” and “0”) with a predetermined threshold value and temporarily held, thereby temporarily modulating the spotlight modulated at a predetermined frequency. Whether or not each photodiode 45 receives the L reflected light Lr can be expressed as a collection of bits.

  In the present embodiment, since the sensor unit 40a includes five photodiodes 45, for example, if the light receiving state is defined as “1” and the case without light receiving is defined as “0”, the frequencies f1 to f5 are defined. When only the reflected light Lr modulated at the frequency f2 is received, “01000” is obtained as 5-bit parallel data in the order of f1, f2, f3, f4, and f5 from the LSB to the MSB. (08h) is output from R1 to R5 of the A / D conversion circuit 48. When the reflected light Lr modulated at the frequency f3 is received in addition to the reflected light Lr modulated at the frequency f2, the parallel data of “01100” (0Ch) in the same order The data is output from R1 to R5 of the D conversion circuit 48 (in the parenthesis, 5 bits are displayed in hexadecimal).

  The 5-bit parallel data is defined as an input map in the memory 22 of the control unit 20 to be described later. For example, an input map area that can be recorded cyclically (endless annular area) for 10 timings in time series. Is secured. As a result, it is possible to record (store) light reception detection information by the five photodiodes 45 output by the A / D conversion circuit 48 for a predetermined period.

  It should be noted that a peak hold circuit is interposed between the filter circuit 47 and the A / D conversion circuit 48 to hold the maximum value of the analog signal output from the filter circuit 47 so that the conversion by the A / D conversion circuit 48 is performed. There may be a margin in timing.

  Since the illumination units 30a and 30b and the sensor units 40a and 40b configured as described above are controlled by the control unit 20 provided on the back side of the outer door 11, the configuration of the control unit 20 will be described with reference to FIG. explain.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the control unit 20 includes a CPU 21, a memory 22, a system bus 23, an input / output interface 24, and the like. The CPU 21 is a central processing unit that controls the control unit 20, and is connected to the memory 22 and the input / output interface 24 via the system bus 23.

  The memory 22 is a semiconductor storage device such as a so-called RAM or ROM, and is connected to the CPU 21 via the system bus 23. In addition to the system program 22a for controlling the CPU 21, the memory 22 stores various control programs 22b to 22e that enable illumination control processing to be described later. Running. Note that the input map area described above is secured in a predetermined area of the memory 22.

  The input / output interface 24 exchanges data between the CPU 21 and the other units 50 that constitute the basic components of the vending machine such as the lighting units 30a and 30b, the sensor units 40a and 40b, or the selection button unit. Is connected to the system bus 23. An input / output bus 25 is provided between the lighting units 30a and 30b, an input / output bus 26 is provided between the sensor units 40a and 40b, and an input / output bus 27 is provided between the other units 50 and Each intervenes.

  Here, functional outlines of various control programs 22b to 22e stored in the memory 22, that is, the illumination control program 22b, the standby illumination program 22c, the user / position detection program 22d, and the high-intensity illumination program 22e will be described.

  The illumination control program 22b appropriately executes the standby illumination program 22c and the high-intensity illumination program 22e based on the presence / absence of the user W detected by the sensor units 40a and 40b, and the processing flow is illustrated in FIG. Has been. The lighting control program 22b is called and started from the main routine of the system program 22a, for example.

  The standby lighting program 22c has a function of setting the light emitting luminance to a predetermined low luminance for the plurality of light emitting diodes 35 constituting the lighting units 30a and 30b when the user W is not detected by the sensor units 40a and 40b (see FIG. 7: Standby illumination processing 1), at least one of the plurality of light emitting diodes 35 is set to a predetermined high luminance, and its setting position is switched randomly (irregularly), or one side It has a function (FIG. 7; standby illumination processing 2) that is switched in order (regular) toward and flows as a whole. The standby illumination program 22c, in combination with the CPU 21 and the memory 22, can correspond to “illumination control means” described in the claims.

  The user / position detection program 22d has a function of detecting whether there is a user W approaching the vending machine and detecting position information regarding the positional relationship between the user W and the vending machine. (FIGS. 8 to 10; user / position detection processes 1 to 3). The user / position detection program 22d, in combination with the CPU 21 and the memory 22, can correspond to “user detection means” and “position detection means” described in the claims.

  When the user W is detected by the sensor units 40a and 40b, the high-intensity illumination program 22e illuminates the product sample M that illuminates the product sample M having the smallest separation distance from the user W among the plurality of product samples M. Has a function of setting the light emission luminance to a predetermined high luminance higher than the predetermined low luminance (FIG. 11; high luminance processing). The high-intensity illumination program 22e, in combination with the CPU 21 and the memory 22, can correspond to “illumination control means” described in the claims.

  Next, the flow of processing by the illumination control program executed by the control unit 20 will be described with reference to FIGS. Here, each control process performed for the illumination unit 30a provided in the upper display space S shown in FIG. 1 and the sensor unit 40a that receives the reflected light Lr of the spotlight L from the illumination unit 30a will be described as an example. However, each control process performed about the illumination unit 30b provided in the lower exhibition space S and the sensor unit 40b that receives the reflected light Lr of the spotlight L from the illumination unit 30b is performed in the same manner.

  Each process described below is executed by the CPU 21 by appropriately reading the above-described illumination control program 22b, standby illumination program 22c, user detection program 22d, and high-intensity illumination program 22e from the memory 22 to the CPU 21. Is realized.

  As shown in FIG. 6, in the illumination control process, first, an initialization process for setting the memory 22 and the like to a predetermined initial state is performed in step S100. For example, for the memory 22, a predetermined work area is cleared to zero, and an input map area written by the A / D conversion circuit 48 of the sensor units 40a and 40b is cleared to zero. For the lighting units 30a and 30b, all output maps to be output to the control circuit 38 are set (written) to an initial value “00” (extinguished).

  In the next step S200, standby illumination processing is performed. This process is executed by the standby lighting program 22c described above. When called in step S200, this process is executed by another task ("task" is also referred to as a process or thread). The details of this process are shown in FIG. 7, and will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 7 shows standby lighting processing 1 (FIG. 7A) that can improve the energy saving effect and standby lighting processing 2 (FIG. 7B) that can improve the customer-collecting effect.

  As shown in FIG. 7A, in the standby illumination process 1, the process of setting (writing) “10” to all the output maps in step S211 is repeatedly performed. This output map corresponds to 10-bit parallel data set in the control circuit 38 of the illumination units 30a and 30b described above.

  In the previous example, a control signal for causing the light emitting diode 35 to emit light with low luminance (50% of the maximum luminance) is output to the control circuit 38 of the lighting units 30a and 30b. The drive current supplied to the light emitting diode 35 by each driver circuit 33 is controlled so that the light emitting diode 35 emits light with a luminance of 50% of the maximum luminance. As a result, the spotlight L emitted from the illumination units 30a and 30b has a brightness that makes it visually dim, but the current consumption is suppressed to almost half of the maximum. That is, an energy saving effect of 50% can be obtained.

  On the other hand, in the standby illumination process 2 shown in FIG. 7B, the process of setting “01” to all the output maps is performed in step S221, and then the high brightness position determination process is performed in step S223. That is, in step S221, a control signal for causing the light emitting diode 35 to emit light with an extremely low luminance (20% of the maximum luminance) is output to the control circuit 38 of the lighting units 30a and 30b. The spotlight L to be displayed has a brightness that feels very dark visually, but the light emitting diode 35 to be set to a high brightness (approximately 100%) brightness is determined by the high brightness position determination process in the next step S223.

  That is, in order to cause only one light emitting diode 35 to emit light with the maximum luminance (almost 100%) among the plurality of light emitting diodes 35 that are controlled to be extremely dark and extremely low in step S221, the high luminance position determination process is used. The light emitting diode 35 is determined.

  For example, a position corresponding to a value obtained by dividing a pseudo random number obtained by an algorithm for generating a pseudo random number by the number of light emitting diodes 35 constituting the illumination unit 30a (5 in the present embodiment) and adding 1 to the remainder. Determined as the high brightness position. In this random number system, an unspecified light emitting diode 35 is selected every time Step S223 is executed.

  As another method, for example, with respect to a plurality of light emitting diodes 35 (five in this embodiment) assembled on the illumination board 31 and arranged in a row, the high luminance position is directed from one end side to the other end side. In the sequential method of sequentially moving to the next, the light emitting diode 35 located next to the other end is selected one by one every time the step S223 is executed.

  In the subsequent step S225, “11” for emitting light with high luminance (approximately 100%) is set at the location of the output map corresponding to the position determined in the previous step S223. Thereby, for example, in the previous example, among the five light emitting diodes 35 of # 1 to # 5, the # 4 light emitting diode 35 as a specific one emits a bright spotlight L. In step S227, this state is maintained for a predetermined time, for example, about 0.5 seconds to 1 second, and then the process returns to step S221 again.

  Similarly, each process is executed in the order of step S221 → step S223 → step S225 → step S227, but the high-luminance position determined in step S223 is different each time step S223 is executed. In the random number system described above, since the unspecified light emitting diode 35 is selected every time the step S223 is executed, the position of the light emitting diode 35 that irradiates the spotlight L with the maximum luminance changes irregularly.

  That is, one of the plurality of light emitting diodes 35 emits light with a high luminance (approximately 100% luminance), and the remaining light emitting diodes 35 are set to have a very low luminance (20% luminance). At the same time, the positional relationship between the light-emitting diode 35 set to high luminance and the light-emitting diode 35 set to ultra-low luminance is controlled to be switched randomly. For example, among the light-emitting diodes 35 of # 1 to # 5, the high-intensity light-emitting diode 35 is # 2-> # 5-> # 1-> # 3-> # 4-> # 1-> # 4-> # 2-> # 5. In addition, it is changed irregularly, for example, approximately every 1 second.

  On the other hand, in the sequential method, the position corresponding to the adjacent side from the one end side to the other end side is sequentially determined as the high brightness position, and each time the step S223 is performed, the light emitting diode 35 positioned adjacent to the other end side one by one. For example, among the light-emitting diodes 35 of # 1 to # 5, the light-emitting diode 35 having a high brightness setting is selected from # 1 → # 2 → # 3 → # 4 → # 5 → # 1 → # 2 → #. As in 3 → # 4, the flow is regularly changed, for example, about every second so as to flow in one direction. It should be noted that the brightness is high so as to reciprocate in both the left and right directions (both ends), such as # 1, # 2, # 3, # 4, # 5, # 4, # 3, # 2, and # 1 to # 2. The position of the light emitting diode 35 that emits light may be regularly changed, for example, approximately every 1 second.

  Accordingly, for example, when the number of the light emitting diodes 35 is five, when one of them is set to the high luminance setting (almost 100%) and the remaining four are set to the ultra low luminance setting (20%), the total is 180. % (= 20% × 4 + 100%), so that the power consumption is equivalent to 500% = (100% × 5) when all the five light emitting diodes 35 are set to high brightness (almost 100%). The power consumption is 36% (= (180/500) × 100). That is, an energy saving effect of 74% can be obtained.

  Further, since the spotlight L other than the specific light emitting diode 35 can be suppressed to an extremely low brightness, the spotlight L by the specific light emitting diode 35 appears to be more noticeable and bright to the user W, and the bright spotlight L The location of the product will be changed irregularly or regularly, so that the user W who is away from the vending machine will be alerted and the opportunity to purchase goods will be created to improve the effect of attracting customers. Can do. In addition, it is possible to increase the willingness to purchase. It should be noted that the timing at which the position where the high-luminance light emission is irregularly or regularly exchanged may be irregularly changed, for example, between about 0.5 seconds and 2 seconds. Thereby, since the time for which the spotlight L hits irregularly changes, it is possible to give the user W a strange feeling and increase the alerting power.

Further, since the light emitting diodes other than the specific light emitting diode 35 are not turned off even when the brightness is extremely low (as described later, the reflected light Lr of the spotlight L is received by the sensor units 40a and 40b, so that the user of the vending machine In addition to the product sample M hitting the high-intensity spotlight L, the presence of other product samples M is reluctantly appealed to the user W. be able to. For this reason, it can be informed to the user W that items other than the product sample M to which the bright spotlight L hits can be purchased.
In addition, the number of the light emitting diodes 35 that emit light with high luminance is not set to one, but may be two or more, and the positions of the light emitting diodes 35 that emit light with high luminance may be changed irregularly or regularly. As a result, the movement of the spotlight L set with high brightness is diversified, so that it is possible to further improve the visual attracting effect.

  While the standby lighting process in step S200 is executed by another task, in the main routine, as shown in FIG. 6, the user / position detection program 22d moves to the user / position detection process in the subsequent step S300. Is called. This process is also executed in a separate task, similar to the standby lighting process described above. Details thereof are shown in FIGS. 8 to 10 and will be described with reference to FIGS.

  As shown in FIG. 8, the basic user / position detection process (user / position detection process 1) starts with an input map reading process in step S311. This input map is 5-bit parallel data output from R1 to R5 of the A / D conversion circuit 48 of the sensor units 40a and 40b. In this embodiment, the input map is changed from a predetermined input map area secured in the memory 22. Read the corresponding one (for example, the latest one).

  In the present embodiment, in this input map, R1 to R5 correspond to five photodiodes 45, and for example, the reflected light Lr of the spotlight L emitted from the # 1 light emitting diode 35 is received. “# 1” is given to the output R 1 of the photodiode 45. Similarly, the output R2 of the photodiode 45 corresponding to the # 2 light emitting diode 35 is “# 2”, and the output R3 of the photodiode 45 corresponding to the # 3 light emitting diode 35 is “# 3”, # 4. “# 4” is given to the output R4 of the photodiode 45 corresponding to the light emitting diode 35, and “# 5” is given to the output R5 of the photodiode 45 corresponding to the light emitting diode 35 of # 5.

  In the next step S312, a process for determining whether or not “1” exists in the read input map is performed. That is, it is determined in this step S312 whether or not the reflected light Lr of the spotlight L modulated at the frequency corresponding to each of the # 1 to # 5 photodiodes 45 is received. In this embodiment, as described above, “1” is defined as light reception and “0” is defined as no light reception, so if any one of the 5-bit data in the input map is “1”. Since any one of the five photodiodes 45 has received light (S312; Yes), the process proceeds to the next step S313.

  On the other hand, when none of the bits is “0” and “1” (S312; No), no photodiode 45 has received the reflected light Lr of the spotlight L yet. Returning to step S311, the latest input map is read from a predetermined input map area.

  In this example, the latest input map is read in step S311 as described above. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, from the latest recorded in the input map area of the memory 22 to the previous one about 100 mSec. Alternatively, all the input maps for 10 timings may be read, and it may be determined in step S312 whether or not any of these input maps has a bit of “1”. Thereby, it becomes possible to improve the detection accuracy of the user W.

  In the subsequent step S313, processing for starting timer timing is performed. That is, as a condition for detecting the presence of the user W a plurality of times within a predetermined time, the timer is started in step S313. Note that this step S313 is effective only when the timer has not timed, and when the timer has already started timekeeping, nothing is performed and the next process proceeds. ,

  In step S314, processing for increasing the counter corresponding to the input map is performed. That is, in order to obtain information on how many photodiodes 45 out of the five photodiodes 45 have detected the user W, the corresponding counter is incremented every time step S314 is passed. This counter is provided with five (C1 to C5) corresponding to the five photodiodes 45 of # 1 to # 5. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 8, this counter corresponds to the photodiode 45 of # 2. Counter C2 to be counted up.

  In the subsequent step S315, processing for determining whether any of the counters in step S314 is equal to or greater than the count value X is performed. That is, the number of times X is set in step S315 as a condition for detecting the presence of the user W a plurality of times within a predetermined time. For example, if the timer that has started measuring time in step S313 is set to measure 3 seconds, 10 is set as the count value X.

  If any of the counters C1 to C5 is 10 or more (S315; Yes), it is determined that there is a user W before the vending machine, and the process proceeds to step S316, where the user Detection information and position detection information are output to the main routine. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 8, since the value of the counter C2 among the counters C1 to C5 has reached 10, the fact that the user W has been detected (user detection information) corresponds to the counter C2. The number 45 of the photodiode 45 (position detection information) is output. Thereby, in step S400 shown in FIG. 6, it turns out that the user W exists.

  Returning to FIG. 8 again, if none of the counters C1 to C5 is greater than or equal to 10 in step S315 (S315; No), the next step S317 determines whether or not the timer value has exceeded N seconds. Is done. In the present embodiment, for example, 3 seconds is set as N seconds.

  In other words, if there is a person who has stopped for 3 seconds or more in front of the vending machine, this person assumes that the person is likely to use the vending machine. While estimating as W, such 3 seconds is set as N seconds from the intention of excluding mere pedestrians passing in front of the vending machine in about 1 second. Note that this N seconds is appropriately determined based on the distribution of the stopping time of the user who stops in front of the vending machine, the distribution of the passing time of pedestrians passing in front of the vending machine, and the like. .

  If it is determined in this step S317 that it has exceeded N seconds (S317; Yes), the process proceeds to the next step S319, and if it is determined that it has not exceeded N seconds (S317; No), Returning to step S311, the input map is read again. For example, in the previous example, when the timer value does not exceed 3 seconds (S317; No), the latest input map is read from a predetermined input map area.

  On the other hand, when the timer value exceeds 3 seconds (S317; Yes), all the counters C1 to C5 are cleared to zero in step S319, and the timer is also reset to the initial value. That is, since the predetermined time (N seconds) as a condition for detecting the presence of the user W a plurality of times within a predetermined time has passed, the number of times (counters C1 to C5) and time (timer value) Are all initialized.

  As described above, in the user / position detection processing 1 shown in FIG. 8, when any signal component of the predetermined frequencies f1 to f5 is extracted X times (predetermined number) or more within N seconds (predetermined time), step S316 is performed. Since the user detection information and the position detection information are output by the above, the extraction of the signal components of the predetermined frequencies f1 to f5 is temporary without being substantially continuous for N seconds or more, or within N seconds. If it is less than X times, the signal components of the predetermined frequencies f1 to f5 are not extracted by the filter circuit 47 of the sensor unit 40a. For example, before or near the vending machine. It is possible to prevent erroneous detection of a pedestrian who simply passes by as a user W of the vending machine. That is, as shown in FIG. 12, a person who stops in front of or near the vending machine is detected as a user W (FIG. 12B), and a pedestrian U who is not is not detected as a user W. (FIG. 12A).

  In the example illustrated in FIG. 8, for example, when any one of the counters C <b> 1 to C <b> 5 reaches 10 in step S <b> 315, the counter whose count value has reached 10. The number of the photodiode 45 corresponding to (counter C2 in the example of FIG. 8) is output as position detection information in step S316. For example, the count value of any one of the counters C1 to C5 has reached 10. In this case, when the counter value (counter C1, C3 in the example of FIG. 8) adjacent to the counter (counter C2 in the example of FIG. 8) is 10 or a value close to 10 (for example, 9 or 8), In addition to the counter (counter C2 in the example of FIG. 8), a photodiode corresponding to the counter (counter C1 in the example of FIG. 8) adjacent thereto Number of de 45 may also be output in step S316 as the position detection information. As a result, as will be described later, it is possible to respond to a plurality of lighting of the spotlight L when the user W is confused about product selection.

  In the example shown in FIG. 8, as described above, for example, when the count values of the counters C1 to C5 reach 10 in step S315, the counters other than the counter (counter C2 in the example of FIG. 8) When the count value of the counter (counter C3 to C5 in the example of FIG. 8) away from the counter is 10 or a value close to 10 (for example, 9 or 8), the counter (counter C2 in the example of FIG. 8) is included. The numbers of the photodiodes 45 corresponding to all the counters (counters C1 to C5 in the example of FIG. 8) may be output as position detection information in step S316. Thereby, as will be described later, it is possible to cope with all lighting of the spotlight L when there are a plurality of users W.

  Next, another configuration example of the user / position detection process (user / position detection process 2) will be described with reference to FIG. The user / position detection process 2 is simplified by omitting the timer process from the process of the user / position detection process 1 described above. In FIG. 9, processing steps that are substantially the same as those of the user / position detection processing 1 shown in FIG.

  Similarly to the user / position detection process 1, the user / position detection process 2 starts from the input map reading process in step S311 and whether or not “1” exists in the input map read in the subsequent step S312. The determination process is performed. If it is determined in step S312 that any one of the 5-bit data of the input map has “1” (S312; Yes), the process proceeds to the next step S314. If there is no bit of “1” (S312; No), the process proceeds to step S319, and all the counters C1 to C5 are cleared to zero.

  That is, in the user / position detection process 2, when the signal components of the predetermined frequencies f1 to f5 are extracted continuously X times (predetermined number) or more, the user detection information and the position detection information are output in step S316. I am doing so. Therefore, if none of the counters C1 to C5 is “1” and all of them are “0”, it is assumed that the counters C1 to C5 are temporary and do not continue X times or more. We are going to clear it to zero.

  On the other hand, if there is “1” in any bit of the 5-bit data of the input map in step S312 (S312; Yes), a process of increasing the counter corresponding to the input map is performed in step S314. Is called. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 9, the counter C2 corresponding to the photodiode 45 of # 2 is counted up.

  In the subsequent step S315, processing for determining whether any of the counters C1 to C5 has a count value equal to or greater than X is performed. For example, when 10 is set as the count value X, when any of the counters C1 to C5 is 10 or more (S315; Yes), it is determined that the user W exists in front of the vending machine. Then, the process proceeds to step S316, and the user detection information and the position detection information are output to the main routine. On the other hand, if none of the counters C1 to C5 is equal to or greater than 10 (S315; No), the process returns to step S311 to read the latest input map from the predetermined input map area again.

  When the user detection information and the position detection information are output in step S316, the counters C1 to C5 are cleared to zero in the next step S319, and then the process returns to step S311 and the latest input map is again retrieved from the predetermined input map area in the same manner as described above. Read.

  As described above, in the user / position detection process 2 shown in FIG. 9, when the signal components of the predetermined frequencies f1 to f5 are continuously extracted X times (predetermined times) or more, the user detection information and the position detection are performed in step S316. Information is output. Therefore, the extraction of the signal components of the predetermined frequencies f1 to f5 is less than X times while simplifying by omitting the timer processing (S313, S317) compared to the user / position detection processing 1 described above. In this case, since the signal components of the predetermined frequencies f1 to f5 are not extracted by the filter circuit 47 of the sensor unit 40a, for example, a pedestrian who simply passes in front of or near the vending machine It is possible to prevent erroneous detection as a user W of the vending machine. That is, as shown in FIG. 12, a person who stops in front of or near the vending machine is detected as a user W (FIG. 12B), and a pedestrian U who is not is not detected as a user W. (FIG. 12A).

  In FIG. 9, step S314 is replaced with step S313 “start if timer is not timed” shown in FIG. 8, and step S315 is replaced with step S317 “timer value exceeds N seconds” shown in FIG. The processing flow of FIG. 9 may be changed so that the process proceeds to step S311 in FIG. 9 when the answer is No in S317 and the process proceeds to step S316 in FIG. 9 if Yes. ).

  Thereby, in the user / position detection process 3 shown in FIG. 10, when the signal components of the predetermined frequencies f1 to f5 are extracted substantially continuously for N seconds (predetermined time) or more, the user detection information and the position are detected in step S316. Output detection information. That is, in the user / position detection processes 1 and 2 described above, it is determined whether there is a user W approaching the vending machine based on the number of extractions of the signal components of the predetermined frequencies f1 to f5. However, in this user / position detection process 3, it is determined whether there is a user W approaching the vending machine based on the extraction time (extraction period).

  Therefore, compared with the user / position detection process 1 described above, the count process (S314, S315) is omitted and simplified, but even if the extraction of the signal components of the predetermined frequencies f1 to f5 is almost continuous, it is N. If it is less than a second (predetermined time), the signal components of the predetermined frequencies f1 to f5 are not extracted by the filter circuit 47 of the sensor unit 40a. For example, before or near the vending machine. Can be prevented from being erroneously detected as a user W of the vending machine. That is, as shown in FIG. 12, a person who stops in front of or near the vending machine is detected as a user W (FIG. 12B), and a pedestrian U who is not is not detected as a user W. (FIG. 12A).

  When such a user / position detection process is executed as a separate task, thereafter, in the main routine, as shown in FIG. 6, a process for determining whether or not a user exists is performed in step S400. That is, it is determined whether or not the user W exists in front of the vending machine based on the user detection information obtained in step S300.

  If it is determined that the user W exists (S400; Yes), the light-emitting diode 35 that illuminates the product sample M having the smallest separation distance from the user W among the plurality of product samples M has high brightness ( In step S500, the main routine shifts to high-intensity illumination processing and calls the high-intensity illumination program 22e. On the other hand, when it is not determined that the user W exists (it is determined that it does not exist) (S400; No), the process proceeds to step S200, and the standby lighting process that has already been called is performed again. Details of the high-intensity illumination process are illustrated in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 11, in the high-intensity illumination process, a process for acquiring position information is performed in step S501. That is, based on the position detection information obtained in step S300, the user W selects the product sample M that is closest to the user W existing in front of the vending machine (the smallest separation distance from the user W). Information regarding the position is acquired by presuming that it is the product sample M of the product of interest.

For example, in the example shown in FIG. 8, based on the number # 2 (position detection information) of the photodiode 45 corresponding to the counter C2 whose value has reached 10 among the counters C1 to C5, the photodiode 45 (# 2 ) information or the photodiode 45 (# 2) light emitting diode 35 which has issued the spotlight L which was the source of the reflected light Lr received is (# 2), are found provided on the position is found provided The information regarding the position becomes the position information of the user W.

  In the next step S503, a process for stopping the standby illumination process 1 (or the standby illumination process 2) being executed in another task in step S200 is performed. That is, since the standby illumination needs to be stopped prior to setting the output map in the subsequent step S505, this process is performed in this step.

In the subsequent step S505, a process of setting (writing) “11” in the output map is performed based on the position information acquired in step S501. The output map may correspond to a 10-bit parallel data to be set in the control circuit 38 of the lighting unit 30a described above, for example, # 2 of the light-emitting position information about the diode 35 is found provided that the user W 11, “11” (almost 100%) is set in T2, and “10” (50% of the maximum luminance) is set in other T1, T3, T4, and T5, as shown in FIG. ) Is set. Instead of “10”, “01” (20% of the maximum luminance) may be set.

  As a result, among the five light emitting diodes 35 constituting the illumination unit 30a, the # 2 light emitting diode 35 emits light with high luminance (approximately 100%), and the other # 1, # 3, # 4, and so on. The # 5 light emitting diode 35 is controlled by the control circuit 38 so as to emit light with low luminance (50% of the maximum luminance). That is, as shown in FIG. 12, a person who stops in front of or near the vending machine is detected as a user W (FIG. 12B), and a product sample M ′ (a plurality of samples) closest to the user W is detected. Among the product samples M, the brightness of the # 2 light-emitting diode 35 that illuminates the product sample M ′) having the smallest separation distance from the user W is made stronger than the brightness of the other light-emitting diodes 35, and the spotlight L Brighten.

  In step S315 in FIG. 8, as described above, for example, when the count value of the counters C1 to C5 reaches 10, a counter (example in FIG. 8) adjacent to the counter (counter C2 in the example in FIG. 8). Then, when the count value of the counters C1 and C3) is 10 or a value close to 10 (for example, 9 or 8), in addition to the counter (counter C2 in the example of FIG. 8), its adjacent counter (in the example of FIG. 8) When the number of the photodiode 45 corresponding to the counter C1) is also output as the position detection information in step S316, in addition to the # 2 light emitting diode 35, the # 1 light emitting diode 35 also has its brightness changed to other light emitting diodes. Makes the spotlight L brighter than 35. Thereby, for example, the presence of two product samples M can be appealed to the user W in a situation where there are two selection candidates and he / she is not sure about product selection by illuminating the spotlight L.

  In step S315 in FIG. 8, as described above, for example, when the count value of the counters C1 to C5 reaches 10, the counter is separated from the counter by a counter other than the counter (counter C2 in the example of FIG. 8). When the count value of the counter (counters C3 to C5 in the example of FIG. 8) is 10 or a value close to 10 (for example, 9 or 8), all the counters (including the counter C2 in the example of FIG. 8) ( In the example of FIG. 8, when the numbers of the photodiodes 45 corresponding to the counters C1 to C5) are also output as position detection information in step S316, the luminance of all the light emitting diodes 35 of # 1 to # 5 is increased. To brighten all spotlights L. Thus, for example, when there are a plurality (two or more) of users W in front of the vending machine, all the product samples M are illuminated with the spotlight L and all of the users W are informed of their existence. can do.

  By controlling the lighting unit 30a in this way, when there is a user W in the vicinity of the vending machine, the user W illuminates the product sample M ′ that is closer than other product samples M. Since the power consumption of the light emitting diode 35 is increased, excessive power is not consumed even for the light emitting diode 35 that illuminates the product sample M of the product that the user W does not care about when selecting the product. Therefore, since the illumination for illuminating the product sample M of the product that is unlikely to be selected by the user W is not unnecessarily brightened, more efficient energy saving can be achieved, which contributes to energy saving.

  When the setting (writing) of the output map in step S505 is completed, the high-intensity illumination process is terminated and the process returns to the main routine shown in FIG. 6, and then the process proceeds to step S300. The position detection process is performed again.

  As described above, according to the vending machine illumination device according to the present embodiment, the illumination control process by the illumination control program 22b executed by the control unit 20 is performed by the user / position detection program 22d (step S300). It is detected whether or not there is a user W approaching the vending machine. (1a) When the user W is not detected (S400; No), the luminance of the plurality of light emitting diodes 35 is set to low luminance ( (1B) When the user W is detected (S400; Yes), the user / position detection program 22d (step Based on the position information detected in S300), the user out of a plurality of product samples M is obtained by the high-intensity illumination program 22e (Step S500) executed by the control unit 20. The brightness of the light emitting diode 35 which distance illuminates the smallest product sample M 'and is set to a high intensity (almost 100%) (Figure 11).

  In other words, (1a) if there is no user W near the vending machine, each spotlight L that illuminates each product sample M is dimmed, and (1b) the user W is near the vending machine. Is present, the spotlight L that illuminates the product sample M ′ closest to the user W is made brighter than the spotlight L that illuminates other product samples M. As a result, (1a) when there is no user W in the vicinity of the vending machine, the power consumption of each light emitting diode 35 is reduced, while (1b) the user W is in the vicinity of the vending machine. The consumption of the light emitting diode 35 that illuminates the product sample M ′ (usually a product sample that is likely to be selected by the user W) that the user W is approaching compared to other product samples M. Since the power is increased, excessive power is not consumed even for the light-emitting diode that illuminates the product sample M of the product that the user W does not show interest in selecting the product. Therefore, since the illumination for illuminating the product sample M of the product that is unlikely to be selected by the user W is not unnecessarily brightened, more efficient energy saving can be achieved, which contributes to energy saving.

  In addition, according to the vending machine illumination device according to the present embodiment, the illumination control process by the illumination control program 22b executed by the control unit 20 is performed by the user / position detection program 22d (step S300). It is detected whether or not there is an approaching user W. (2a) When no user W is detected (S400; No), at least one of the plurality of light emitting diodes 35 is selected. The luminance is set to high luminance (almost 100%), the luminance of the remaining light emitting diode 35 is set to ultra low luminance (20% of the maximum luminance), and the light emitting diode 35 set to high luminance is set to ultra low luminance. The set positional relationship with the light-emitting diode 35 may be changed randomly, or may be changed in order toward one side of the arranged row. When the brightness of a number of light emitting diodes is controlled (FIG. 7B; standby lighting process 2) and (2b) a user is detected by the user detection means, such control (standby lighting process 2) is interrupted. Then, based on the position information detected by the user / position detection program 22d (step S300), the light emitting diode that illuminates the product sample M ′ having the smallest separation distance from the user W among the plurality of product samples M The luminance of 35 is set to high luminance (approximately 100%), and the luminance of the remaining light emitting diodes 35 is set to low luminance (50% of the maximum luminance) or very low luminance (20% of the maximum luminance) (FIG. 11). ).

  In other words, (2a) when there is no user W near the vending machine, at least one of the spotlights L illuminating each product sample M is brightened and the remaining spotlights L are The light spotlight L and the dark spotlight L are switched in a random manner, or in order toward one side of the column in which the light emitting diodes 35 are arranged, 2b) When there is a user W near the vending machine, the light / dark control is interrupted, and the spotlight L for illuminating the product sample M ′ closest to the user W is replaced with another spotlight L. Brighter than the spotlight L that illuminates the product sample M. Accordingly, (2a) when there is no user W in the vicinity of the vending machine, the power consumption is extremely small except for one or more bright light emitting diodes 35. Therefore, the power consumption of the plurality of light emitting diodes as a whole is small. Can be reduced. Therefore, since the illumination for illuminating the product sample M of the product that is unlikely to be selected by the user W is not unnecessarily brightened, more efficient energy saving can be achieved, which contributes to energy saving.

  In addition, since the product sample M is illuminated so that it flows randomly or in one direction, if there is no user W near the vending machine, the user located away from the vending machine It can appeal that the vending machine is located or in operation or call attention. On the other hand, (2b) if there is a user W near the vending machine, the product sample M ′ (usually selected by the user) that the user W is closer to other product samples M The power consumption of the light emitting diode 35 that illuminates the product sample of a product that is highly likely to be generated is increased, so that the extra power up to the light emitting diode 35 that illuminates the product sample M of the product that the user W is not interested in selecting the product Does not consume. Therefore, it is possible to alert a user who is away from the vending machine to make a purchase opportunity for the product (improve the effect of attracting customers) and to increase the willingness to purchase.

  In the above-described embodiment, the spotlight L by the light emitting diode 35 of the illumination unit 30a provided in the upper display space S is received by the photodiode 45 of the sensor unit 40a on the upper side of the advertisement panel P, and the lower display space. The spotlight L from the light emitting diode 35 of the lighting unit 30b provided in S is received by the photodiode 45 of the sensor unit 40b on the lower side of the advertising panel P. The spotlight L by the light emitting diode 35 of the illumination unit 30a provided is received by the photodiode 45 of the sensor unit 40b on the lower side of the advertisement panel P, and the spot by the light emitting diode 35 of the illumination unit 30b provided in the lower exhibition space S The light L is connected to the sensor on the upper side of the advertising panel P. Be adopted a configuration in which received by the photodiode 45 of the knit 40a, it is possible to obtain the operation and effect similar to those described above. Moreover, you may comprise so that the correspondence of sensor unit 40a, 40b with respect to these illumination units 30a, 30b may be mixed up and down.

  In the embodiment described above, in the sensor units 40a and 40b, it is determined which of the light emitting diodes 35 of the illumination units 30a and 30b the reflected light Lr of the received spotlight L is that of the spotlight L. In order to distinguish, the modulation frequencies of the light modulations by the illumination units 30a and 30b are set to different ones. For example, modulation is performed with rectangular waves having different pulse widths or duty ratios, or encoding is performed with different codes. Modulation may be performed with the generated rectangular wave. In this case, in the sensor units 40a and 40b, the reflected light Lr of the received spotlight L is subjected to signal processing by a demodulation (decoding) method suitable for each modulation method, so that any of the illumination units 30a and 30b receives the reflected light Lr. It is distinguished whether the spotlight L is emitted from the light emitting diode 35.

  Moreover, in embodiment mentioned above, as shown in FIG. 12, the spotlight L (illumination light Lf) of lighting unit 30a, 30b is reached from the front surface of the said vending machine to the distance d of 50 cm-1m, for example. The mounting position, the mounting angle, and the like are set. For example, the beam shape of the spotlight L is formed into an elliptical cone extending in front of the vending machine, and the lighting unit 30a reaches 1 m to 2 m ahead from the vending machine. , 30b may be configured. Moreover, although the white thing was used as the light emitting diode 35 of illumination unit 30a, 30b, the effect | action and effect similar to the above can be acquired even if colored things, such as red, green, blue, yellow, are used.

  Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the light emitting diodes 35 are arranged in a straight line on the lighting board 31 constituting the lighting units 30a and 30b. However, the light emitting diodes 35 may be arranged in two or three lines, or in a polygonal line or ring shape. You may arrange along. Even in such a case, the same actions and effects as described above can be obtained.

  In the embodiment described above, the number of the light emitting diodes 35 constituting the illumination units 30a and 30b is set to five. However, if there are a plurality of the light emitting diodes 35, the number may be two, three, or ten or more. In addition, the energy saving effect mentioned above can be improved, so that the number of the light emitting diodes 35 increases. Further, one light emitting diode 35 is associated with one product sample M, but one light emitting diode 35 is associated with two product samples M, or two with respect to one product sample M. More than one light emitting diode 35 may be associated.

  In the above-described embodiment, the control process is performed on the plurality of light emitting diodes 35 and the photodiodes 45 almost simultaneously using the output map in the light emission control of the light emitting diodes 35 and the input map in the light reception detection of the photodiodes 45. For example, the light-emitting diodes 35 of the lighting units 30a and 30b are controlled so as to be turned on one by one in time series, and spotlights L irradiated from a plurality of light-emitting diodes 35 arranged in a row are arranged in that row. In response to this, the sensor units 40a and 40b perform control processing to perform signal processing so as to sequentially demodulate (decode) the received reflected light Lr. Furthermore, algorithms such as standby illumination processing and user / position detection processing may be configured.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, in the light emission control of the light emitting diode 35, the luminance (brightness) is divided into three stages, and the maximum luminance (almost 100% (predetermined high luminance)) and the maximum luminance are arranged in order of brightness. 50% (predetermined low brightness) and 20% of the maximum brightness (predetermined ultra-low brightness). For example, the predetermined high brightness is 90% of the maximum brightness, the predetermined low brightness is 45% of the maximum brightness, The predetermined ultra-low luminance may be set to 10% of the maximum luminance. However, the brightness as the ultra-low brightness is determined by the product sample M by the user W located at a distance of 2 m to 3 m from the front of the vending machine in an illumination environment where there is no light around the vending machine. The brightness is such that the presence of the can be visually recognized. Further, the brightness intensity level is not limited to three levels, and may be two levels or four or more levels. As for the intensity level of the brightness, the lighting control can be simplified if the level is decreased, and the lighting control is complicated if the level is increased.

  In the above-described embodiment, the user detection means and the position detection means are realized by the same control unit 20 and sensor units 40a and 40b (hardware) or the same user / position detection program 22d (software). However, even if both means are realized by separate hardware and software, the same operations and effects as described above can be obtained.

  Here, as another configuration example of the above-described illumination units 30a and 30b, an illumination unit that superimposes a predetermined code waveform on the drive current that flows through the light emitting diode 35 (modulates with rectangular waves having different pulse widths and duty ratios). 30a ′ and 30b ′ will be described with reference to FIG. In addition, about the component substantially the same as illumination unit 30a, 30b mentioned above here, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected and description is abbreviate | omitted.

  The illumination units 30a 'and 30b' may correspond to "modulation means" according to claim 6 and "plural individual modulation means" according to claims 7 and 8. .

  As shown in FIG. 13 (A), the illumination units 30a ′ and 30b ′ include a strip-shaped (or strip-shaped) long illumination board 31, a driver circuit 33 assembled to the illumination board 31, a light emitting diode 35, and a control. The circuit 38 'is formed. Unlike the illumination units 30a and 30b described above, the oscillation circuit 37 is not provided. Hereinafter, the lighting unit 30a 'will be described as a representative, but the lighting unit 30b is similarly configured unless otherwise specified.

  As shown in FIG. 13B, the lighting unit 30a ′ includes a plurality of (for example, five in this embodiment) light emitting diodes 35, and a drive in which the light emitting diodes 35 are modulated with a predetermined code waveform. A plurality of driver circuits 33 for supplying current and a control circuit 38 ′ for supplying modulation signals having different code waveforms to the plurality of driver circuits 33 individually.

  That is, in this configuration example, the control circuit 38 ′ has brightness control (almost 100% (maximum brightness), 50% of maximum brightness, 20% of maximum brightness, 0%) as in the control circuit 38 described above. In addition to (lights off), for example, a logic circuit is configured so that different predetermined code waveforms can be generated individually for the plurality of driver circuits 33 and directly output to the driver circuit 33. For this reason, since the control circuit 38 ′ directly controls the on / off timing of the light emitting diode 35 for each light emitting diode 35, the oscillation circuit 37 is not required and the cost can be reduced as compared with the illumination unit 30a described above. ing.

  As a part of such a predetermined code waveform, as shown in FIG. 15A, for example, a rectangular wave that is turned on and off (duty ratio 0.5, frequency 10 kHz) in a cycle of 100 μSec is applied for 500 μSec (period α shown in FIG. 15A). ) After the generation, 1 mSec is constituted so as to rest for 500 μSec (period β shown in the figure), and this is repeated four times by the control circuit 38 ′. Accordingly, for example, 1-bit information “1” is expressed by four rectangular waves, and “0” information is expressed in a period of 4 mSec in which such rectangular waves are not output, thereby forming a predetermined code waveform.

  When such a predetermined code waveform is output to the driver circuit 33, as described above, the driver circuit 33 modulates the drive current of the light emitting diode 35. Here, the response speed (switching speed) of the light emitting diode 35 is applied. ) Is slower than that mounted on the illumination units 30a and 30b described above, for example, around 5 kHz, for example, the light emitting diode 35 blinks with a waveform as shown in FIG.

  That is, even if the drive current supplied to the light emitting diode 35 is turned on / off at 10 kHz (α period shown in FIG. 15A), the light emitting diode 35 remains lit during this period due to the response delay of the light emitting diode 35, and there is no on / off period of 10 kHz. Since the light is turned off in the period (β period shown in FIG. 15A), the light emitting diode 35 is turned on and off four times during the period of 1-bit information “1” (the γ period shown in FIG. 15B). . On the other hand, during the 1-bit information “0” period (δ period shown in FIG. 15B) in which the driving current is not supplied to the light emitting diode 35, the light emitting diode 35 remains off.

  Thus, for example, when a predetermined code waveform “1010” having a 4-bit configuration is output from the control circuit 38 ′ to the driver circuit 33, the light emitting diode 35 is turned on and off as shown in FIG. The information “1010” can be superimposed on the spotlight L by the blinking of the light emitting diode 35. In this way, even during the period in which 1-bit information “1” is expressed (the γ period shown in FIG. 15B), the light-emitting diode 35 is blinked. It becomes possible to make it. When such energy saving is not taken into consideration, a period for expressing 1-bit information “1” (γ period shown in FIG. 15B) may be continuously lit.

  In the configuration example described above, the light emitting diode 35 is turned off during the period of 1-bit information “0” (δ period shown in FIG. 15B). Since the order is 10 mSec, the user W visually recognizes that the spotlight L is continuously lit.

  In the configuration example described above, the light-emitting diode 35 is turned off during the period of 1-bit information “0” (period δ shown in FIG. 15B). If the sensor units 40a ′ and 40b ′ are capable of demodulating, for example, the light emitting diode 35 has a driving current of 80% or 50% with respect to nearly 100% near the maximum value of the driving current that can be supplied to the light emitting diode 35. You may comprise so that it may supply to. In this case, for example, by applying amplitude modulation to the drive current of the light emitting diode 35 with the modulation signal having the predetermined code waveform, the luminance of the light emitting diode 35 changes at the lighting / extinguishing timing shown in FIG. To do.

  In the configuration example shown in FIG. 13, since five light emitting diodes 35 are mounted, for example, “1010” is emitted from the # 1 light emitting diode 35, “1101” is emitted from the # 2 light emitting diode 35, and # 3 is emitted. The control circuit 38 'is configured so that the respective predetermined code waveforms can be set, such as "0101" for the diode 35, "0010" for the # 4 light emitting diode 35, and "1101" for the # 5 light emitting diode 35. To do. As a result, as will be described below, in the sensor units 40a ′ and 40b ′, which of the plurality of reflected lights Lr of the received spotlight L is from the light-emitting diode 35 of the spotlight L is irradiated. Therefore, the product (product sample M) that the user W is paying attention to can be estimated more accurately.

  Note that the five light emitting diodes 35 may be modulated with the same predetermined code waveform. Thereby, the configuration of the control circuit 38 'can be simplified.

  In contrast to the illumination units 30a 'and 30b' configured as described above, the sensor units 40a 'and 40b' are configured as shown in FIG. In addition, about the component substantially the same as sensor unit 40a, 40b mentioned above, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected and description is abbreviate | omitted. The sensor units 40a 'and 40b' may correspond to "demodulation means" according to claim 6 and "plural individual demodulation means" according to claims 7 and 8.

  As shown in FIG. 14 (A), the sensor units 40a 'and 40b' include a strip-shaped (or strip-shaped) long illumination board 41, an amplifier circuit 43, a photodiode 45, and a control unit assembled on the sensor board 41. The circuit 48 'and the like are included. Unlike the sensor units 40a and 40b described above, the filter circuit 47 is not provided. Hereinafter, the sensor units 40a 'and 40b' will be described as a representative, but the sensor unit 40b 'is similarly configured unless otherwise specified.

  As shown in FIG. 14B, the sensor unit 40a ′ includes a number corresponding to a plurality of (for example, five in this embodiment) light emitting diodes 35, that is, five photodiodes 45, and these photo diodes. A plurality of amplifier circuits 43 that amplify the sensor current (light reception signal) output from the diode 45 with a predetermined gain, and the sensor current (light reception signal) output from the plurality of amplifier circuits 43 is converted into a voltage and further converted into a digital value. After the conversion, the control circuit 48 'sets the output line corresponding to each digital value to "1".

  In other words, in this configuration example, the sensor current output from the plurality of amplifier circuits 43 is directly input by the control circuit 48 ′ and individually subjected to digital filter processing. Therefore, the filter circuit 47 which is an analog filter is necessary. do not do. For this reason, in the sensor unit 40a described above, the required filter circuit 47 is not necessary in this example, so that the cost can be reduced.

  For example, when the photodiode 45 receives the reflected light Lr of the spotlight L from the illumination unit 30a ′ described above, a sensor current sensor current (light reception signal) having a waveform as shown in FIG. Is done. For this reason, in the control circuit 48 ', this sensor current is stored by a capacitor, and the charge voltage of the capacitor is compared with a predetermined threshold voltage Vth by a comparator as shown in FIG. For the threshold voltage Vth, the comparator outputs “1” when the reflected light Lr in which two or more rectangular waves as described above are continuously superimposed is received. In the case of a noise component whose width is narrower than α or β (FIG. 15A), a value that does not output “1” is set. This makes it possible to demodulate (decode) 1-bit information “1” composed of the four rectangular waves as described above.

  Then, the decoded bit string of “1” or “0” is set in a unit of 4 bits, for example, a bit pattern “1010” corresponding to the light emitting diodes 35 of # 1 to # 5 in the above example. Compared with “1101”, “0101”, “0010”, “1101”, each bit of R1 to R5 corresponding to the numbers # 1 to # 5 of the light emitting diode 35 is set to “1” or “0”. .

  For example, when “1” is defined when light is received and “0” is defined when no light is received, when only the reflected light Lr from the # 1 light emitting diode 35 is received (FIG. 15E), R1 ~ R5 outputs "10000", and when the reflected light Lr from both the # 1 and # 2 light emitting diodes 35 is received (FIG. 15 (E) and FIG. 15 (F)), R1 to R5 Outputs "11000".

  As described above, in the control circuit 48 ′, the sensor current output from the amplifier circuit 43 is temporarily stored in the capacitor, and then subjected to digital filter processing in which signal processing is performed by the comparator. Noise components whose width is narrower than α and β can be removed.

  In the configuration example described above, it is assumed that the control circuit 38 ′ of the illumination unit 30 a ′ is assembled on the illumination board 31 of the illumination unit 30 a ′ provided separately from the illumination unit 20. Alternatively, the CPU 21 of the lighting unit 20 may have the function of the control circuit 38 ′, and the driver circuit 33 may be directly controlled via the input / output interface 24. Similarly, for the control circuit 48 ′ of the sensor unit 40 a ′, for example, the CPU 21 of the lighting unit 20 has the function of the control circuit 48 ′, and the sensor signal is directly transmitted from the amplifier circuit 43 via the input / output interface 24. You may take the structure to receive.

  As a result, the control circuit 38 ′ and the control circuit 48 ′ are not required, the driver circuit 33 can be directly controlled, and the sensor signal can be directly obtained from the amplifier circuit 43. Direct information processing is possible without using information processing concepts.

  By using the illumination units 30a 'and 30b' and the sensor units 40a 'and 40b' as described above, the processes described with reference to FIGS. 6 to 12 can be performed as described above.

  In other words, according to the vending machine illumination device according to the present embodiment, the illumination control process by the illumination control program 22b executed by the control unit 20 is performed on the vending machine by the user / position detection program 22d (step S300). It is detected whether or not there is an approaching user W. (1a) When the user W is not detected (S400; No), the brightness of the plurality of light emitting diodes 35 is set to a low brightness (maximum brightness of 50). %) (FIG. 7 (A); standby lighting processing 1), (1b) When the user W is detected (S400; Yes), it is detected by the user / position detection program 22d (step S300). The distance from the user W among the plurality of product samples M by the high-intensity illumination program 22e (step S500) executed by the control unit 20 on the basis of the position information thus obtained. Setting the brightness of the LEDs 35 to illuminate the smallest product sample M 'in high brightness (almost 100%) (Figure 11).

  In other words, (1a) if there is no user W near the vending machine, each spotlight L that illuminates each product sample M is dimmed, and (1b) the user W is near the vending machine. Is present, the spotlight L that illuminates the product sample M ′ closest to the user W is made brighter than the spotlight L that illuminates other product samples M. As a result, (1a) when there is no user W in the vicinity of the vending machine, the power consumption of each light emitting diode 35 is reduced, while (1b) the user W is in the vicinity of the vending machine. The consumption of the light emitting diode 35 that illuminates the product sample M ′ (usually a product sample that is likely to be selected by the user W) that the user W is approaching compared to other product samples M. Since the power is increased, excessive power is not consumed even for the light-emitting diode that illuminates the product sample M of the product that the user W does not show interest in selecting the product. Therefore, since the illumination for illuminating the product sample M of the product that is unlikely to be selected by the user W is not unnecessarily brightened, more efficient energy saving can be achieved, which contributes to energy saving.

  In addition, according to the vending machine illumination device according to the present embodiment, the illumination control process by the illumination control program 22b executed by the control unit 20 is performed by the user / position detection program 22d (step S300). It is detected whether or not there is an approaching user W. (2a) When no user W is detected (S400; No), at least one of the plurality of light emitting diodes 35 is selected. The luminance is set to high luminance (almost 100%), the luminance of the remaining light emitting diode 35 is set to ultra low luminance (20% of the maximum luminance), and the light emitting diode 35 set to high luminance is set to ultra low luminance. The set positional relationship with the light-emitting diode 35 may be changed randomly, or may be changed in order toward one side of the arranged row. When the brightness of a number of light emitting diodes is controlled (FIG. 7B; standby lighting process 2) and (2b) a user is detected by the user detection means, such control (standby lighting process 2) is interrupted. Then, based on the position information detected by the user / position detection program 22d (step S300), the light emitting diode that illuminates the product sample M ′ having the smallest separation distance from the user W among the plurality of product samples M The luminance of 35 is set to high luminance (approximately 100%), and the luminance of the remaining light emitting diodes 35 is set to low luminance (50% of the maximum luminance) or very low luminance (20% of the maximum luminance) (FIG. 11). ).

  In other words, (2a) when there is no user W near the vending machine, at least one of the spotlights L illuminating each product sample M is brightened and the remaining spotlights L are The light spotlight L and the dark spotlight L are switched in a random manner, or in order toward one side of the column in which the light emitting diodes 35 are arranged, 2b) When there is a user W near the vending machine, the light / dark control is interrupted, and the spotlight L for illuminating the product sample M ′ closest to the user W is replaced with another spotlight L. Brighter than the spotlight L that illuminates the product sample M. Accordingly, (2a) when there is no user W in the vicinity of the vending machine, the power consumption is extremely small except for one or more bright light emitting diodes 35. Therefore, the power consumption of the plurality of light emitting diodes as a whole is small. Can be reduced. Therefore, since the illumination for illuminating the product sample M of the product that is unlikely to be selected by the user W is not unnecessarily brightened, more efficient energy saving can be achieved, which contributes to energy saving.

  In addition, since the product sample M is illuminated so that it flows randomly or in one direction, if there is no user W near the vending machine, the user located away from the vending machine It can appeal that the vending machine is located or in operation or call attention. On the other hand, (2b) if there is a user W near the vending machine, the product sample M ′ (usually selected by the user) that the user W is closer to other product samples M The power consumption of the light emitting diode 35 that illuminates the product sample of a product that is highly likely to be generated is increased, so that the extra power up to the light emitting diode 35 that illuminates the product sample M of the product that the user W is not interested in selecting the product Does not consume. Therefore, it is possible to alert a user who is away from the vending machine to make a purchase opportunity for the product (improve the effect of attracting customers) and to increase the willingness to purchase.

  In the above-described embodiment, the spotlight L by the light emitting diode 35 of the illumination unit 30a ′ provided in the upper display space S is received by the photodiode 45 of the sensor unit 40a ′ on the upper side of the advertisement panel P, and the lower stage. The spotlight L from the light emitting diode 35 of the lighting unit 30b provided in the exhibition space S is received by the photodiode 45 of the sensor unit 40b on the lower side of the advertising panel P. The spotlight L by the light emitting diode 35 of the lighting unit 30a ′ provided in S is received by the photodiode 45 of the lower sensor unit 40b of the advertising panel P, and the light emitting diode of the lighting unit 30b provided in the lower exhibition space S 35, the spotlight L on the upper side of the advertising panel P Be adopted a configuration in which received by the photodiode 45 of the capacitors units 40a ', it is possible to obtain the operation and effect similar to those described above. Further, the correspondence relationship of the sensor units 40a 'and 40b' with respect to the illumination units 30a 'and 30b' may be configured so as to be mixed up and down.

  Moreover, in embodiment mentioned above, as shown in FIG. 12, illumination unit 30a ', 30b so that the spotlight L (illumination light Lf) may reach from the front surface of the said vending machine to the distance d of 50 cm-1m, for example. The mounting position, mounting angle, etc. are set, but for example, the beam shape of the spotlight L is made into an elliptical cone extending in front of the vending machine and illuminated so as to reach 1 m to 2 m ahead from the vending machine The units 30a ′ and 30b ′ may be configured. Moreover, although the white thing was used as the light emitting diode 35 of illumination unit 30a ', 30b', even if it uses colored things, such as red, green, blue, and yellow, the effect | action and effect similar to the above can be acquired. .

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, the light emitting diodes 35 are arranged in a straight line on the illumination board 31 constituting the illumination units 30a ′ and 30b ′. However, the light emitting diodes 35 may be arranged in two or three lines, You may arrange | position along a ring. Even in such a case, the same actions and effects as described above can be obtained.

  In the embodiment described above, the number of the light emitting diodes 35 constituting the illumination units 30a 'and 30b' is set to five. However, if there are a plurality of the light emitting diodes 35, the number may be two, three, or ten or more. In addition, the energy saving effect mentioned above can be improved, so that the number of the light emitting diodes 35 increases. Further, one light emitting diode 35 is associated with one product sample M, but one light emitting diode 35 is associated with two product samples M, or two with respect to one product sample M. More than one light emitting diode 35 may be associated.

  In the above-described embodiment, the control process is performed on the plurality of light emitting diodes 35 and the photodiodes 45 almost simultaneously using the output map in the light emission control of the light emitting diodes 35 and the input map in the light reception detection of the photodiodes 45. For example, the light emitting diodes 35 of the lighting units 30a ′ and 30b ′ are controlled so as to be turned on one by one in time series, and the spotlight L irradiated from the plurality of light emitting diodes 35 arranged in a row is controlled. Control (scanning) is performed from one end side to the other end side of the row, and in response to this, the sensor units 40a ′ and 40b ′ perform signal processing so as to sequentially demodulate (decode) the received reflected light Lr. Algorithms such as standby illumination processing and user / position detection processing may be configured to perform processing.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, in the light emission control of the light emitting diode 35, the luminance (brightness) is divided into three stages, and the maximum luminance (almost 100% (predetermined high luminance)) and the maximum luminance are arranged in order of brightness. 50% (predetermined low brightness) and 20% of the maximum brightness (predetermined ultra-low brightness). For example, the predetermined high brightness is 90% of the maximum brightness, the predetermined low brightness is 45% of the maximum brightness, The predetermined ultra-low luminance may be set to 10% of the maximum luminance. However, the brightness as the ultra-low brightness is determined by the product sample M by the user W located at a distance of 2 m to 3 m from the front of the vending machine in an illumination environment where there is no light around the vending machine. The brightness is such that the presence of the can be visually recognized. Further, the brightness intensity level is not limited to three levels, and may be two levels or four or more levels. As for the intensity level of the brightness, the lighting control can be simplified if the level is decreased, and the lighting control is complicated if the level is increased.

  In the above-described embodiment, the user detection unit and the position detection unit are divided into the same control unit 20 and sensor units 40a ′ and 40b ′ (hardware), and the same user / position detection program 22d (software). However, even if both means are realized by separate hardware and software, the same operations and effects as described above can be obtained.

It is explanatory drawing which shows the example which mounted the vending machine lighting device which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention in the vending machine, and the said vending machine is seen from the front. It is sectional drawing seen from the arrow direction by the II-II line | wire shown in FIG. 1, and the code | symbol W is the user. FIG. 3A is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a lighting unit that constitutes the vending machine lighting device of the present embodiment, and FIG. 3B is a circuit diagram showing a circuit example thereof. FIG. 4A is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a sensor unit constituting the lighting device for a vending machine of the present embodiment, and FIG. 4B is a circuit diagram showing a circuit example thereof. It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of the control unit which comprises the illuminating device for vending machines of this embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the illumination control process by the control unit shown in FIG. FIG. 7A is a flowchart showing a flow of the standby lighting process (standby lighting process 1) shown in FIG. 6, and FIG. 7B is a flow of a process (standby lighting process 2) according to another configuration of the process. It is a flowchart which shows. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the user and position detection process (user and position detection process 1) shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the process (user and position detection process 2) by the other structure of the user and position detection process shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the process (user and position detection process 3) by the other structure of the user and position detection process shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the high-intensity illumination process shown in FIG. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the positional relationship between the said vending machine and its user. FIG. 13A is an explanatory diagram showing another example of the configuration of the illumination unit that constitutes the vending machine illumination device of the present embodiment, and FIG. 13B is a circuit diagram showing an example of the circuit. FIG. 14A is an explanatory diagram illustrating another configuration example of the sensor unit that configures the vending machine illumination device of the present embodiment, and FIG. 14B is a circuit diagram illustrating the circuit example thereof. FIG. 15A shows a waveform of the driving current of the light emitting diode by the lighting unit, FIG. 15B shows a waveform showing the timing of turning on / off the light emitting diode, FIG. 15C shows a waveform of the sensor current by the sensor unit, and FIG. FIG. 15D is an explanatory diagram showing a waveform of a charge voltage by a capacitor, and FIGS. 15E and 15F are output waveforms by a comparator.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Main body 11 ... Outer door 14 ... Window 20 ... Control unit (Lighting control means, user detection means, position detection means)
22b ... Lighting control program 22c ... Standby lighting program 22c (lighting control means)
22d: User / position detection program 22d (user detection means, position detection means)
22e ... High-intensity lighting program 22e (lighting control means)
30a, 30a ′, 30b, 30b ′... Illumination unit 33... Driver circuit (modulation means, individual modulation means)
35 ... Light emitting diodes 40a, 40a ', 40b, 40b' ... Sensor unit (user detecting means, position detecting means)
45 ... Photodiode (light receiving means, individual light receiving means)
47. Filter circuit (demodulation means, individual demodulation means)
L ... Spotlight Lf ... Irradiation light Lr ... Reflected light M, M '... Sample product P ... Advertising panel S ... Exhibition space W ... User

Claims (8)

A vending machine lighting device comprising a plurality of light emitting diodes that simultaneously illuminate a plurality of product samples accommodated in an exhibition space in a vending machine with a spotlight at least for each product sample,
User detection means for detecting whether there is a user approaching the vending machine;
Position detecting means for detecting position information related to a positional relationship between the user and the plurality of product samples illuminated by the light emitting diode ;
Illumination control means for controlling the luminance of the plurality of light emitting diodes,
The illumination control means includes
When the user is not detected by the user detection means, the luminance of the plurality of light emitting diodes is set to a predetermined low luminance,
When the user is detected by the user detection unit, based on the position information detected by the position detection unit, a product sample having the smallest separation distance from the user among the plurality of product samples An illumination device for a vending machine, characterized in that the luminance of the light emitting diode that illuminates is set to a predetermined high luminance higher than the predetermined low luminance. An illumination device for a vending machine comprising a plurality of light emitting diodes arranged in a row and illuminating with a spotlight at least simultaneously for each product sample, in a plurality of product samples accommodated in an exhibition space in the vending machine,
User detection means for detecting whether there is a user approaching the vending machine;
Position detecting means for detecting position information related to a positional relationship between the user and the plurality of product samples illuminated by the light emitting diode ;
Illumination control means for controlling the luminance of the plurality of light emitting diodes,
The illumination control means includes
When the user is not detected by the user detection means, the brightness of at least one light emitting diode of the plurality of light emitting diodes is set to a predetermined high brightness, and the brightness of the remaining light emitting diodes is set to the predetermined brightness. The predetermined ultra-low luminance that is extremely lower than the high luminance is set, and the positional relationship between the light-emitting diode that is set to the predetermined high luminance and the light-emitting diode that is set to the predetermined ultra-low luminance is changed randomly. Or brightness of the plurality of light emitting diodes is controlled so as to be sequentially switched toward one side of the arranged row,
When the user is detected by the user detection means, the control is interrupted, and based on the position information detected by the position detection means, out of the plurality of product samples, The luminance of the light emitting diode that illuminates the product sample with the smallest separation distance is set to the predetermined high luminance, and the predetermined low luminance between the predetermined high luminance and the predetermined ultra low luminance, or the predetermined super luminance. An illumination device for a vending machine, wherein the luminance of the remaining light emitting diodes is set to low luminance. The user detecting means includes
Modulation means for modulating a spotlight irradiated from the light emitting diode by superimposing a signal component of a predetermined frequency on the current flowing through the light emitting diode;
A light receiving means for receiving the reflected light incident on the user after the modulated spotlight is reflected by the user;
A demodulating unit that demodulates the received light signal output by the light receiving unit and extracts a signal component of the predetermined frequency;
When the user is detected, the demodulation means
The signal component of the predetermined frequency is extracted substantially continuously for a predetermined time or more or continuously for a predetermined number of times, or the signal component of the predetermined frequency is extracted for a predetermined number of times within a predetermined time. An illumination device for a vending machine according to claim 1 or 2. The user detecting means includes
Each of the plurality of light emitting diodes is provided corresponding to each of the plurality of light emitting diodes, and a signal component having a predetermined frequency that is different for each light emitting diode is superimposed on a current flowing through the light emitting diode, so that each spotlight is irradiated from the plurality of light emitting diodes. A plurality of individual modulation means for applying modulation,
A plurality of individual light sources that are provided corresponding to the plurality of light emitting diodes, and that receive the reflected light that is reflected and incident on the user by the differently modulated spotlights, respectively, and output light reception signals. A light receiving means;
A plurality of individual demodulation means provided corresponding to the plurality of individual light receiving means, respectively, for demodulating the received light signals output by the plurality of individual light receiving means and extracting the signal components of the different predetermined frequencies; With
When the user is detected, by any one of the plurality of individual demodulation means,
The signal component of the predetermined frequency is extracted substantially continuously for a predetermined time or more or continuously for a predetermined number of times, or the signal component of the predetermined frequency is extracted for a predetermined number of times within a predetermined time. An illumination device for a vending machine according to claim 1 or 2. The position detecting means includes
Each of the plurality of light emitting diodes is provided corresponding to each of the plurality of light emitting diodes, and a signal component having a predetermined frequency that is different for each light emitting diode is superimposed on a current flowing through the light emitting diode, so that each spotlight is irradiated from the plurality of light emitting diodes. A plurality of individual modulation means for applying modulation,
A plurality of individual light sources that are provided corresponding to the plurality of light emitting diodes, and that receive the reflected light that is reflected and incident on the user by the differently modulated spotlights, respectively, and output light reception signals. A light receiving means;
A plurality of individual demodulation means provided corresponding to the plurality of individual light receiving means, respectively, for demodulating the received light signals output by the plurality of individual light receiving means and extracting the signal components of the different predetermined frequencies; With
The signal component of the predetermined frequency is extracted approximately continuously for a predetermined time or continuously or more than a predetermined number of times by any one of the plurality of individual demodulation units, or the signal component of the predetermined frequency is In the case of being extracted a predetermined number of times within a predetermined time,
The location information is
Corresponds to the product sample to be illuminated in the one individual demodulating means corresponding to the individual light receiving means spotlight was the source of the incident reflected light to the individual light receiving means with information about the position is found is provided,
Or the product sample, wherein one individual demodulation means to said corresponding light emitting diode is irradiated with spotlight was the source of the reflected light incident on the individual light receiving means is illuminated on the spotlight with information about the position are found provided vending machine lighting device according to claim 1, characterized in that they correspond to. The user detecting means includes
Modulation means for modulating the spotlight irradiated from the light emitting diode by superimposing a predetermined code waveform on the current flowing through the light emitting diode;
A light receiving means for receiving the reflected light incident on the user after the modulated spotlight is reflected by the user;
Demodulating means for demodulating the received light signal output by the light receiving means and extracting the predetermined code waveform;
When the user is detected, the demodulation means
The signal component of the predetermined code waveform is extracted almost continuously for a predetermined time or continuously for a predetermined number of times, or the signal component of the predetermined code waveform is extracted for a predetermined number of times within a predetermined time. The lighting device for a vending machine according to claim 1 or 2. The user detecting means includes
Each of the plurality of light emitting diodes is provided corresponding to each of the plurality of light emitting diodes, and a predetermined code waveform that is different for each light emitting diode is superimposed on the current flowing through the light emitting diodes, so that each spotlight irradiated from the plurality of light emitting diodes has a different modulation. A plurality of individual modulation means for applying
A plurality of individual light sources that are provided corresponding to the plurality of light emitting diodes, and that receive the reflected light that is reflected and incident on the user by the differently modulated spotlights, respectively, and output light reception signals. A light receiving means;
A plurality of individual demodulation means provided corresponding to the plurality of individual light receiving means, respectively, for extracting the different predetermined code waveforms by demodulating the light reception signals output by the plurality of individual light receiving means, respectively. Prepared,
When the user is detected, by any one of the plurality of individual demodulation means,
The signal component of the predetermined code waveform is extracted almost continuously for a predetermined time or continuously for a predetermined number of times, or the signal component of the predetermined code waveform is extracted for a predetermined number of times within a predetermined time. The lighting device for a vending machine according to claim 1 or 2. The position detecting means includes
Each of the plurality of light emitting diodes is provided corresponding to each of the plurality of light emitting diodes, and a predetermined code waveform that is different for each light emitting diode is superimposed on the current flowing through the light emitting diodes, so that each of the spotlights irradiated from the plurality of light emitting diodes has a different modulation. A plurality of individual modulation means for applying
A plurality of individual light sources that are provided corresponding to the plurality of light emitting diodes, and that receive the reflected light that is reflected and incident on the user by the differently modulated spotlights, respectively, and output light reception signals. A light receiving means;
A plurality of individual demodulation means provided corresponding to the plurality of individual light receiving means, respectively, for extracting the different predetermined code waveforms by demodulating the light reception signals output by the plurality of individual light receiving means, respectively. Prepared,
The signal component of the predetermined code waveform is extracted substantially continuously for a predetermined time or more or a predetermined number of times or more by any one of the plurality of individual demodulation means, or the signal of the predetermined code waveform In the case where a component is extracted a predetermined number of times within a predetermined time,
The location information is
Corresponds to the product sample to be illuminated in the one individual demodulating means corresponding to the individual light receiving means spotlight was the source of the incident reflected light to the individual light receiving means with information about the position is found is provided,
Or the product sample, wherein one individual demodulation means to said corresponding light emitting diode is irradiated with spotlight was the source of the reflected light incident on the individual light receiving means is illuminated on the spotlight with information about the position are found provided vending machine lighting device according to claim 1, characterized in that they correspond to.

Images