WO2012113036A1

WO2012113036A1 - System and method for providing illumination and user interface therefor

Info

Publication number: WO2012113036A1
Application number: PCT/AU2012/000187
Authority: WO
Inventors: Flynn Saxton TALBOT
Original assignee: Talbot Flynn Saxton
Priority date: 2011-02-25
Filing date: 2012-02-24
Publication date: 2012-08-30

Abstract

An system (10) for providing illumination, the system (10) comprising a source (12) of electromagnetic radiation; a user interface (24) that is able to be moved such that a position of the user interface (24) is able to be specified by a value of at least one coordinate of a coordinate system, wherein each coordinate of the coordinate system is associated with a respective property of electromagnetic radiation outputted from the source (12); and a controller (14) for controlling each property of the electromagnetic radiation according to the position of the interface (24).

Description

System and Method for Providing Illumination and User Interface Therefor

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates generally to lighting and, in particular, to an system and method for providing illumination and to an interface for use with such a system.

[0002] Although the present invention will be described with particular reference to a system for providing illumination or lighting in the form of a table lamp using light emitting diode (LED) technology and an interface therefor such that characteristics or properties of the illumination including the light intensity (dimming) and colour can be changed, it will be appreciated that embodiments of the invention may be used in respect of other illumination systems, devices and apparatus, using other sources of illumination, and influencing other, or additional, characteristics or properties.

[0003] Throughout the specification, unless the context requires otherwise, the word "comprise" or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers.

[0004] Furthermore, throughout the specification, unless the context requires otherwise, the word "include" or variations such as "includes" or "including", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers.

[0005] Additionally, throughout the specification, unless the context requires otherwise, the words "substantially" or "about" will be understood to not be limited to the value for the range qualified by the terms.

BACKGROUND ART

[0006] Each document, reference, patent application or patent cited in this text is expressly incorporated herein in their entirety by reference, which means that it should be read and considered by the reader as part of this text. That the document, reference, patent application, or patent cited in this text is not repeated in this text is merely for reasons of conciseness. [0007] The following discussion of the background to the invention is intended to facilitate an understanding of the present invention only: It should be appreciated that the discussion is not an acknowledgement or admission that any of the material referred to was published, known or part of the common general knowledge of the person skilled in the art in any jurisdiction as at the priority date of the invention.

[0008] Lighting or illumination systems and apparatus have been disclosed. However, these may not be aesthetically pleasing, or provide an entertaining, interesting, or interactive experience for a user or operator.

[0009] It is against this background that the present invention has been developed. SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0010] The present invention seeks to overcome, or at least ameliorate, one or more of the deficiencies of the prior art mentioned above, or to provide the consumer with a useful or commercial choice.

[0011] Advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings, wherein, by way of illustration and example, preferred embodiments of the present invention are disclosed.

[0012] According to a first broad aspect of the present invention, there is provided an interface for a system for providing illumination, wherein the interface is operable to allow a user to control properties of light outputted from a light source of the system.

[0013] Preferably, the properties of light comprise intensity, propagation direction, frequency or wavelength spectrum or colour, and/or polarisation. In a preferred form of the invention, the properties of colour and intensity of the light are controlled. The properties may be controlled simultaneously.

[0014] Preferably, the interface comprises a globe, sphere or ball, and may be hand held. The interface may be at least partially recessed into a housing or support.

[0015] Preferably, the interface is able to be moved such that a position of the interface is able to be specified by a value of at least one coordinate of a coordinate system, wherein each coordinate of the coordinate system is associated with a respective property of the light outpiitted from the light source, wherein the system further comprises a controller for controlling each property of the light according to the position of the interface. [0016] Preferably, the coordinate system comprises: a Cartesian coordinate system; a polar coordinate system; a cylindrical coordinate system; or a spherical coordinate system.

[0017] Preferably, the coordinate system comprises a Cartesian coordinate system having a first Cartesian coordinate and a second Cartesian coordinate, wherein the first Cartesian coordinate is associated with a first property of light outpiitted from the light source, and the second Cartesian coordinate is associated with a second property of light outputted from the light source.

[0018] Preferably, at least a portion of the interface permits passage of light outputted from the light source there-through to at least some extent. In embodiments of the invention, it is preferred that at least a portion of the user interface is transparent or translucent.

[0019] Preferably, the interface further comprises at least one sensor, the sensor being operable to sense data relating to the position of the interface. The data may be used to facilitate determination of the value of the at least one coordinate of the coordinate system. Preferably, the interface is operable to communicate the data to the system.

[0020] Preferably, the at least one sensor comprises a gravity or tilt sensor, a laser sensor, a rotary encoder; a magnetic field variation detector; and/or an optical angle sensor.

[0021] According to a second broad aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for use with an interface according to the first broad aspect of the present invention as hereinbefore described.

[0022] According to a third broad aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for providing illumination, the system comprising:

a source of electromagnetic radiation; a user interface that is able to be moved such that a position of the user interface is able to be specified by a value of at least one coordinate of a coordinate system, wherein each coordinate of the coordinate system is associated with a respective property of electromagnetic radiation outputted from the source; and a controller for controlling each property of the electromagnetic radiation according to the position of the interface.

[0023] Preferably, the position of the user interface is able to be specified by respective values of at least two coordinates of the coordinate system, wherein each coordinate of the coordinate system is associated with a different respective property of electromagnetic radiation outputted from the source.

[0024] Preferably, the coordinate system comprises: a Cartesian coordinate system; a polar coordinate system; a cylindrical coordinate system; or a spherical coordinate system.

[0025] Preferably, the coordinate system comprises a Cartesian coordinate system having a first Cartesian coordinate and a second Cartesian coordinate, wherein the first Cartesian coordinate is associated with a first property of electromagnetic radiation outputted from the source, and the second Cartesian coordinate is associated with a second property of electromagnetic radiation outputted from the source.

[0026] Preferably, the electromagnetic radiation comprises visible light. In such a case, the source of electromagnetic radiation may comprise a light or illumination source or device, and preferably a set of light-emitting diodes (LEDs).

[0027] Preferably, properties of the electromagnetic radiation may comprise intensity, propagation direction, frequency or wavelength spectrum or colour, or polarisation. The properties may be controlled simultaneously.

[0028] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the user interface comprises a globe, sphere or ball, and may be hand held. The interface may be at least partially recessed into a housing or support.

[0029] Preferably, at least a portion of the user interface permits passage of electromagnetic radiation outputted from the source there-through to at least some extent. In embodiments of the invention where the electromagnetic radiation comprises visible light, it is preferred that at least a portion of the user interface is transparent or translucent.

[0030] Preferably, the system further comprises at least one sensor, the sensor being operable to sense data relating to the position of the user interface. The data may be used to facilitate determination of the value of the at least one coordinate of the coordinate system. Preferably, the system is operable to communicate the data to the controller.

[0031] Preferably, the at least one sensor comprises a gravity or tilt sensor, a laser sensor, a rotary encoder; a magnetic field variation detector; and/or an optical angle sensor.

[0032] Preferably, the controller comprises a computer. Preferably, the computer is operable to process signals and data received from the at least one sensor and to control operation of the system on the basis of the processing.

[0033] Preferably, the computer comprises a processor means and a storage means, the storage means having software stored thereon, whereby the processor means is operable, under control of the software, to: receive data relating to the position of the user interface; process the received data to determine the value of the at least one coordinate of the coordinate system; and control each property of the electromagnetic radiation according to the determined value.

[0034] Preferably, the system comprises one or more additional user interfaces, each of the one or more additional user interfaces being able to be moved such that a position of a respective one of the one or more additional user interfaces is able to be specified by a value of at least one coordinate of a coordinate system, wherein each coordinate of the coordinate system is associated with a respective property of electromagnetic radiation outputted from the source; and the controller being operable to control each property of the electromagnetic radiation according to the position of a selected one of the user interface or the one or more additional user interfaces.

[0035] According to a fourth broad aspect of the present invention, there is provided a user interface for use with an system according to the third broad aspect of the present invention as hereinbefore described.

[0036] According to a fifth broad aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for providing illumination, the method comprising: specifying a position of a moveable user interface by a value of at least one coordinate of a coordinate system, wherein each coordinate of the coordinate system is associated with a respective property of electromagnetic radiation outputted from an electromagnetic radiation source; and controlling each property of the electromagnetic radiation according to the position of the user interface.

[0037] Preferably, the position of the user interface is specified by respective values of at least two coordinates of the coordinate system, wherein each coordinate of the coordinate system is associated with a different respective property of electromagnetic radiation outputted from the source.

[0038] Preferably, the method further comprises sensing data relating to the position of the user interface.

[0039] Preferably, the method further comprises: receiving data relating to the position of the user interface; processing the received data to determine the value of the at least one coordinate of the coordinate system; and controlling each property of the electromagnetic radiation according to the determined value.

[0040] According to a sixth broad aspect of the present invention, there is provided a computer-readable storage medium on which is stored instructions that, when executed by a computing means, causes the computing means to perform the method according to the fifth broad aspect of the present invention as hereinbefore described.

[0041] According to a seventh broad aspect of the present invention, there is provided a computing means programmed to carry out the method according to the fifth broad aspect of the present invention as hereinbefore described.

[0042] According to an eighth broad aspect of the present invention, there is provided a data signal including at least one instruction being capable of being received and interpreted by a computing system, wherein the instruction implements the method according to the fifth broad aspect of the present invention as hereinbefore described. [0043] According to a ninth broad aspect of the present invention, there is provided an system for providing illumination, the system comprising: a source of electromagnetic radiation; and a controller for controlling output of electromagnetic radiation from the source in response to an event to influence a characteristic of the provided illumination.

[0044] According to a tenth broad aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for providing illumination comprising controlling output of electromagnetic radiation from a source of electromagnet radiation in response to an event to influence a characteristic of the provided illumination.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0045] The invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, of which:

Figure 1 depicts a system diagram of a first embodiment of a lighting apparatus in accordance with an aspect of the present invention;

Figure 2 depicts a photograph of a side view of a base and a sphere component of the apparatus of Figure 1 in a separated position;

Figure 3 depicts a photograph of a top perspective view of the base component of the apparatus of Figure 1 ;

Figure 4 depicts a photograph of a side view of the apparatus of Figure 1 in an inactive state; and

Figure 5 depicts a photograph of a side view of the apparatus of Figure 1 in an active state.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0046] In the drawings, like features have been referenced with like reference numbers.

[0047] In Figure 1 , there is depicted a first embodiment of a system for providing illumination or lighting in accordance with an aspect of the present invention, generally provided as an apparatus 10. In the embodiment described, the apparatus 10 has the form of a table lamp and is provided under the trade mark X&Y™ Interactive Light Object™.

[0048] As depicted in Figures 1 to 5, the apparatus 10 comprises a source of electromagnetic radiation 12 and a controller 14 for controlling the output or generation of electromagnetic radiation from the source 12 in response to one or more events or occurrences to influence or otherwise control or affect one or more characteristics or properties of the illumination provided or produced by the apparatus 10.

_Λ [0049] The event may comprise a change in characteristic or feature of a user interface 24 enabling a user or operator to use the apparatus 10.

[0050] As will be described in further detail, the interface 24 is operable to allow a user to control properties of light outputted from the source 12. Particularly, in the embodiment, the interface 24 is able to be moved such that a position of the interface 24 is able to be specified by a value of at least one coordinate of a coordinate system, wherein each coordinate of the coordinate system is associated with a respective property of the electromagnetic radiation outputted from the source 12. The controller 14 is operable to control each property of the electromagnetic radiation according to the position of the interface 24.

[0051] It is preferable that the position of the user interface 24 is able to be specified by respective values of at least two coordinates of the coordinate system, wherein each coordinate of the coordinate system is associated with a different respective property of electromagnetic radiation outputted from the source.

[0052] In the embodiment described, the coordinate system comprises a Cartesian coordinate system, having a first Cartesian coordinate, which may be referred to as an X coordinate, and a second Cartesian coordinate, which may be referred to as a Y coordinate. The first, or X, Cartesian coordinate is associated with a first property of electromagnetic radiation outputted from the source 12, and the second, or Y, Cartesian coordinate is associated with a second property of electromagnetic radiation outputted from the source 12.

[0053] The first property comprises a colour of the electromagnetic radiation, and the second property comprises an intensity of the electromagnetic radiation. [0054] Accordingly, in the embodiment described, the characteristics or properties of the provided illumination influenced, controlled or affected by operation of the apparatus 10, that is, of the electromagnetic radiation controlled by the controller 14, comprises a colour and intensity thereof.

[0055] In the embodiment described, the electromagnetic radiation comprises visible light. The source 12 comprises a light or illumination source or device in the form of a set of red/green/blue and white light-emitting diodes (LEDs) 16. The LEDs 16 are arranged in a light fixture comprising a wheel design or formation and operably coupled or connected to the controller 14 by appropriate circuitry so as to be driven, or operated, under control of the controller 14, to generate electromagnetic radiation in frequencies corresponding to the whole or entire visible light colour spectrum. Particularly, the LEDs 16 are operable to produce warm and cool white tones. In this regard, having white LEDs advantageously allows better white tones†o be produced.

[0056] It should be appreciated that the invention is not limited in regard to the frequency or type of electromagnetic radiation and in alternative embodiments of the invention electromagnetic radiation other than, or in a portion of the visible light spectrum, may be used. Similarly, the invention is not limited in regard to the properties of the electromagnetic radiation that may be controlled, and the properties may include intensity, propagation direction, frequency or wavelength spectrum or colour, or polarisation.

[0057] It should also be appreciated that in alternative embodiments of the invention, coordinate systems other than a Cartesian coordinate system may be used, including a polar coordinate system; a cylindrical coordinate system; or a spherical coordinate system. Additionally, the coordinate system may comprise any number of coordinates.

[0058] The apparatus 10 further comprises a circular or wheel-shaped foundation or base 18. A central, circular shaped recess or well 20 is provided in the base 18, extending from an opening provided in a first (or upper, when in use) portion of the base 18. A rim 22 of the well 20 is provided with a ring or lining of felt and is adapted to receive and support a moveable user interface 24 as will be described in further detail below. A second (or lower, when in use) portion of the base 18, opposed to the first section, is adapted to rest on a suitable S pport structure, such as a table top or surface. [0059] The LEDs 16 and controller 14 are contained in a housing 25 positioned in the well 20 such that electromagnetic radiation or light generated or emitted via the LEDs 16 is directed towards the opening (and the interface 24 when supported therein).

[0060] Together, the base 18, LEDs 16, and controller 14 interoperate to form a custom colour wheel design or configuration.

[0061] The interface 24 comprises a hollow sphere 26 fabricated from glass and having a translucent opal white coloured first or lower half or hemisphere 26A and an opaque second or upper half or hemisphere 26B. Alternative embodiments of the invention may comprise other interface structures, comprising materials other than, or additional to, glass, including, for example, plastics, or fibreglass, and may be transparent, translucent or opaque and coloured as desired or required. Additionally, in alternative embodiments of the invention, the interface 24 may be of any dimension, shape or configuration.

[0062] In one embodiment, in addition to the interface 24, one or more further or secondary user interfaces (not shown) are provided. The secondary interfaces operate similarly to the interface 24, and the controller 14 is operable to control each property of the electromagnetic radiation according to the position of a selected one the interface 24 or the secondary interfaces. In a preferred such embodiment, a secondary interface has the form of a portable hand held device comprising a coloured sphere that can be used to interface with the controller 14 to remotely control each property of the electromagnetic radiation and hence lighting of a room, for example.

[0063] Positioned within the sphere 26, and separating or dividing the first hemisphere 26A from the second hemisphere 26B, is a reflector 28. In the embodiment described the reflector 28 is fabricated from aluminium. In alternative embodiments, materials other than, or additional to, aluminium may be used.

[0064] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, rather than being fabricated from different materials, the two hemispheres of the sphere 26 are fabricated from identical material, and desirably white coloured glass provided with a clear layer on the outside thereof. As will be described in further detail below, the reflector 28 physically blocks light from the hemisphere of the sphere remote from the source 12, so it appears dark or darker than the hemisphere proximate to the source 2. [0065] The sphere 26 is removeably and rotatably receivable in the rim 22 of the well 20 to enable it to be supported by the base 18. The support is such that it enables an operator or user 30 of the apparatus to manually alter or manipulate the orientation of the sphere 26 by rotating it in any direction. In this regard, the felt lining of the rim 22 advantageously facilitates the rotational movement of the sphere 26 when force is exerted by the user 30 whilst retaining the sphere 26 in position once such forces ceases to be applied.

[0066] The controller 14 comprises a controller computer (not shown).

[0067] Software is stored and run on the computer. The software, or any set of instructions or programs for the computer, can be written in any suitable language, as are well known to persons skilled in the art. Furthermore, the software may comprise a set of software and can be provided as stand-alone application(s) or via a network, depending on the system requirements.

[0068] In alternative embodiments of the invention, the software may comprise one or more modules, and may be implemented in hardware. In such a case, for example, the modules may be implemented with any one or a combination of the following technologies, which are each well known in the art: a discrete logic circuit(s) having logic gates for implementing logic functions upon data signals, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) having appropriate combinational logic gates, a programmable gate array(s) (PGA), a field programmable gate array (FPGA) and the like.

[0069] The software comprises logic such that the computer is operable, under control of the software, to perform any required processing/analysis to determine the occurrence of an event or condition and other actions as herein described.

[0070] The computer can be of any suitable type, including: a programmable logic controller (PLC); digital signal processor (DSP); microcontroller; personal, notebook or tablet computer, or a dedicated server or networked servers.

[0071] Processing means of the computer includes a central processor. The computer also includes a storage means, device or medium such as a memory device for the storage and running of software, including the abovementioned software. The processor is operable to perform actions under control of the software, as will be described in further detail below, including processing/executing instructions and managing the flow of data and information through the computer. For example, the processor can be any custom made or commercially available processor, a central processing unit (CPU), a data signal processor (DSP) or an auxiliary processor among several processors associated with the computer. In embodiments of the invention, the processing means may be a semiconductor based microprocessor (in the form of a microchip) or a macroprocessor, for example.

[0072] In embodiments of the invention, the storage means, device or medium can include any one or combination of volatile memory elements (e.g., random access memory (RAM) such as dynamic random access memory (DRAM), static random access memory (SRAM)) and non-volatile memory elements (e.g., read only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read only memory (EPROM), electronically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM), programmable read only memory (PROM), tape, compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM), etc.). The storage medium may incorporate electronic, magnetic, optical and/or other types of storage media. Furthermore, the storage medium can have a distributed architecture, where various components are situated remote from one another, but can be accessed by the processing means. For example, the ROM may store various instructions, programs, software, or applications to be executed by the processing means to control the operation of the reader and the RAM may temporarily store variables or results of the operations.

[0073] Where the word "store" is used in the context of the present invention, it is to be understood as including reference to the retaining or holding of data or information both permanently and/or temporarily in the storage means, device or medium for later retrieval, and momentarily or instantaneously, for example as part of a processing operation being performed.

[0074] Additionally, where the terms "apparatus", "system" and "device" are used in the context of the present invention, they are to be understood as including reference to any group of functionally related or interacting, interrelated, interdependent or associated components or elements that may be located in proximity to, separate from, integrated with, or discrete from, each other.

[0075] Furthermore, in embodiments of the invention, the word "determining" is understood to include receiving or accessing the relevant data or information. [0076] The LEDs 16 are interfaced with the computer via appropriate circuitry and drivers positioned on a printed circuit board 31. Components of the apparatus 10 are connected via appropriate wiring, circuitry, and electronics to enable the system 10 to function and perform operations as described. A heat sink 33 is also provided.

[0077] In the embodiment described, the computer is operably coupled to a set of one or more sensors or detectors. Individual sensors within the set of sensors are operable to monitor, sense and gather sensor data or information associated with or relating to characteristics, properties and parameters of components of the apparatus 10, the environment, or elements or devices associated therewith or coupled thereto, to facilitate determination of the occurrence of an event or condition, and to communicate the detected sensor data to the computer or otherwise signal the occurrence of the event or condition.

[0078] In the embodiment described, individual sensors in the set of sensors 32, and the characteristics, properties and parameters monitored and sensed, include a tilt sensor 34 operable to detect movement or a change in position or orientation of the sphere 26. The tilt sensor 34 is provided at a substantially central portion of the reflector 28.

[0079] Alternative sensors/detectors can be used in alternative embodiments of the invention to measure alternative characteristics, properties and parameters of the apparatus 10, the environment, or elements or devices associated therewith or coupled thereto, depending on the application.

[0080] The computer is operably coupled to the set of sensors 32 to receive the sensor data or other signals therefrom and to control individual sensors and their operation. In the embodiment described, transfer or communication of data or signals from the tilt sensor 34 to the computer is facilitated via communication means in the form of an infra red diode transmitter 36 operably coupled or connected to the tilt sensor 34 to transmit signals to be received by an infra red receiver 38 operably coupled or connected to the computer.

[0081] The use and operation of computers using software applications is well-known to persons skilled in the art and need not be described in any further detail herein except as is relevant to the present invention.

[0082] As described previously, any suitable computer can be used in the controller 14, including analogue and digital computers and mechanisms, and microcontrollers. The use of computer control is well known to persons skilled in the art and need not be described in any further detail herein, except as is relevant to the present invention, below. Furthermore, any suitable communication protocol can be used to facilitate communication between sensors within the set of sensors 32 and the computer, and indeed between any subsystems or components of the apparatus 10, and the apparatus 10 and other devices, including wired and wireless, as are well known to persons skilled in the art and need not be described in any further detail herein except as is relevant to the present invention.

[0083] Power supply to the controller 14, LEDs 16, the receiver 38 and associated electronic components and circuitry is provided by means of an optional direct current (DC) electrical energy source (not shown) connected by an external power jack 40 by appropriate circuitry to provide power thereto.

[0084] Power supply to the tilt sensor 34 and the transmitter 36 is provided by means of an energy converter comprising a photovoltaic or solar panel 42 provided on the reflector 28 and operable to convert radiation or light incident thereon, such as originating from the LEDs 16, into DC electrical energy. The solar panel 42 is operably coupled or connected to the tilt sensor 34 and the transmitter 36 by appropriate circuitry to enable the direct current electrical energy to be provided thereto.

[0085] A set of energy storage devices in the form of long life batteries 44, housed in a compartment (not shown) provided on the reflector 28, is also connected to the tilt sensor 34 and the transmitter 36 by appropriate circuitry to enable direct current electrical energy to be provided thereto in situations or positions of the sphere 26 where the light is dim, for example, and the solar panel 42 is unable to detect enough light or receive sufficient radiation to provide sufficient electrical energy to power the tilt sensor 34 and the transmitter 36.

[0086] In embodiments of the invention, the solar panel 42 is also operably coupled by appropriate circuitry to the batteries 44 so as to be able to recharge them.

[0087] The provision of power and energy to electrical and electronic components and devices is well known to persons skilled in the art and, as such, need not be described in any further detail herein, except as is relevant to the present invention.

[0088] The above and other features and advantages of the embodiment of the invention will now be further described with reference to the apparatus 10 in use. [0089] In a first mode or state of operation, which may be referred to as an inactive or off mode, the sphere 26 is received in the rim 22 of the well 20 and supported by the base such that the opening to the well 20, and hence the LEDs 16, are covered by the opaque material of the upper hemisphere 26B. In this position, the opaque material of the upper hemisphere 26B blocks any radiation or visible light that may be generated by the LEDs 16, such that no illumination is provided by the apparatus 10. In embodiments of the invention, the tilt sensor 34 is operable to sense such an orientation or position of the sphere 26 and to generate and communicate via the transmitter 36 a corresponding first mode instruction signal to the controller 14 which is received via the receiver 38. The first mode instruction signal contains information or data comprising a measure or indication of the position of the lower hemisphere 26A relative to the opening to the well 20. In the situation described, this comprises X and Y coordinate position data, specifying respective values of the first, or X, Cartesian coordinate, and the second, or Y, Cartesian coordinate, indicating that no portion of the lower hemisphere 26A is received in the opening to the well 20. Upon receipt of the first mode instruction signal the controller 14 is operable to control the LEDs 16 so that they do not generate or emit any light.

[0090] To manipulate the apparatus 10 to a second mode or state of operation, which may be referred to as an active or on mode, the user 30 exerts force to roll the sphere 26 in the rim 22 of the well 20 such that at least a portion of the translucent lower hemisphere 26A is received in the opening to the well 20 and is able to admit or receive light output from the LEDs 16. The tilt sensor 34 is operable to sense such an orientation or position of the sphere 26 and to generate and communicate via the transmitter 36 a corresponding second mode instruction signal to the controller 14 which is received via the receiver 38. The second mode instruction signal contains information or data comprising a measure or indication of the position of the lower hemisphere 26A relative to the opening to the well. In this situation, this comprises X and Y coordinate position data, specifying respective values of the first, or X, Cartesian coordinate, and the second, or Y, Cartesian coordinate, indicating that at least a portion of the lower hemisphere 26A is received in the opening to the well 20. Upon receipt of the second mode instruction signal the controller 14 is operable to control the LEDs 16 so that they generate and emit light varying in colour and intensity according to the X and Y coordinate position data contained in the second mode signal. The emitted light radiation passes through the translucent material of the lower hemisphere 26A and is incident upon the reflector 28, upon which it is reflected so as to be transmitted out of the sphere 26 via the translucent material of the lower hemisphere 26A, thereby providing illumination.

[0091] As the user 30 rolls and changes the position or orientation of the sphere 26, the detected and communicated X and Y coordinate position data will change accordingly, resulting in a corresponding simultaneous change in the colour and intensity of the light emitted from the lower hemisphere 26A, and hence the illumination provided by the apparatus 10.

[0092] When it is desired to return the apparatus 10 to the first mode of operation, the user rolls the sphere 26 accordingly (i.e. so that the sphere 26 is received in the rim 22 of the well 20 and supported by the base such that the opening to the well 20 are covered by the opaque material of the upper hemisphere 26B).

[0093] It can be appreciated that the instruction signals will also be generated and transmitted in cases where the sphere 26 is physically separated from the base 18. In such a case, the sphere 26 may be, for example, passed from one person to another or rolled or (carefully) thrown and caught, with each change in position resulting in corresponding instructions being communicated to the controller 14 to control operation of the LEDs 6 accordingly. In such a case, the light produced by the LEDs 16 will be transmitted directly out from the opening, which may result in an entertaining illumination projected onto a ceiling, for example.

[0094] In an alternative embodiment of the invention, rather than being provided in the base 8 of the apparatus 10, the source 12 is installed in a structure, such as a ceiling or wall of a room or other architectural space. The interface 24 in such an embodiment has the form of a hand held remote device comprising a housing or support having a rotatable sphere at least partially recessed and retained therein and is operable (in a similar manner to that of the interface 24 of the above described embodiment) to allow a user to wirelessly control properties of light outputted the source 12 to control the colour and light in the architectural space. It is desirable that a plurality of such sources 12 are provided in the structure as part of an illumination or lighting system, each being selectably controllable via the interface 24. In an alternative embodiment, an interface 24 in the form of a rotatable sphere protruding from a wall mounted unit may additionally or alternatively be provided for controlling properties of light outputted from sources 12 of the illumination or lighting system. The additional or alternative interface 24 of such an embodiment operates in a similar manner to that of the interface 24 of the above described embodiment, with rolling the sphere up/down resulting in a change in the brightness of the light outputted, and rolling the sphere left/right resulting in a change in the colour of the light outputted.

[0095] In further embodiments, internal light sources may be provided within the hand held remote device or wall mounted unit, and visible, for example, through a window or other display such as a transparent ring or border encircling the sphere of the device or unit. In such cases, the interface 24 is operable to control properties of the light emitted from the internal light source such that they mirror or correspond, in real time, to the properties of the light being outputted from the source(s) 12 of the illumination or lighting system. In use, a user would see a small glowing ring of light (from the internal source) around the sphere which would change as they moved the sphere so that in a physical sense the effect would be similar to the table lamp embodiment of the invention. The light would be seen changing in front of the user and not just in the surrounding space or environment (from the sources(12)).

[0096] The embodiment of the invention uses the position of the sphere 26 for light diffusion and controlling light intensity and colour from the LEDs 16. It provides advantages, including:

• providing an intuitive, interesting, and aesthetically pleasing way of changing the light from a table lamp;

• allowing a very personal or intimate interaction between the user or operator and the light or illumination provided;

• eliminating the need for an external light switch and dimmer control;

• allowing the selection of both light intensity and colour with one object as the interface; and

• being simple to use and creating a very accurate and tactile experience for the user. [0097] It should be appreciated by the person skilled in the art that the invention is not limited to the embodiments described. For example, the invention as described can include the following modifications and/or additions:

• the scale of the apparatus may be altered according to application and the human interaction desired or required;

• alternative structures may be used to support the interface, including roller bearings, for example;

• alternative, or additional sensors, may be used to detect movement or position of the interface, including alternative electronic and electro-mechanical solutions, which may or may not require transmission of a light control signal from inside the interface (in the case of a sphere) to the base. These alternatives may include, for example: a laser sensor under the interface similar to an optical mouse device; rotary encoders similar to a mechanical mouse device; various types of gravity/tilt sensors inside, on or associated with the interface; detection of field variations caused by a magnet, a piece of metal, or an electric coil inside, on or associated with the interface; and/or optical angle sensors;

• alternative communication or transmission techniques or technologies may be used, including, for example: radio transmission, Bluetooth™ technology, optical transmission (i.e. with modulated infrared); and inductive coupling with electric coils, similar to RFID technology;

• rather than being housed in a base, the source of electromagnetic radiation may be housed in any convenient or desirable structure, including part of a room, for example; and

• different configurations of the interface will result in alternative or different technologies being possibly used. For example, if a full illuminated sphere is used instead of a half sphere, then an absolute position detection may not be required, so a laser sensor under the sphere may be used.

[0098] It should be further appreciated by the person skilled in the art that variations and combinations of features described above, not being alternatives or substitutes, can be combined to form yet further embodiments falling within the intended scope of invention.

Claims

1. An interface for a system for providing illumination, wherein the interface is operable to allow a user to control properties of light outputted from a light source of the system.

2. The interface according to claim 1 , wherein the properties of light comprise intensity, propagation direction, frequency or wavelength spectrum or colour, and/or polarisation.

3. The interface according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the interface comprises a globe, sphere or ball, and may be hand held.

4. The interface according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the interface is able to be moved such that a position of the interface is able to be specified by a value of at least one coordinate of a coordinate system, wherein each coordinate of the coordinate system is associated with a respective property of the light outputted from the light source, wherein the system further comprises a controller for controlling each property of the light according to the position of the interface.

5. The interface according to claim 4, wherein the coordinate system comprises: a Cartesian coordinate system; a polar coordinate system; a cylindrical coordinate system; or a spherical coordinate system.

6. The interface according to claim 5, wherein the coordinate system comprises a Cartesian coordinate system having a first Cartesian coordinate and a second Cartesian coordinate, wherein the first Cartesian coordinate is associated with a first property of light outputted from the light source, and the second Cartesian coordinate is associated with a second property of light outputted from the light source.

7. The interface according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least a portion of the interface permits passage of light outputted from the light source there-through to at least some extent.

8. The interface according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one sensor, the sensor being operable to sense data relating to the position of the interface.

9. The interface according to claim 8, wherein the interface is operable to communicate the data to the system.

10. The interface according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the at least one sensor comprises a gravity or tilt sensor, a laser sensor, a rotary encoder; a magnetic field variation detector; and/or an optical angle sensor.

11.A system for use with an interface according to any one of the preceding claims.

12. A system for providing illumination, the system comprising: a source of electromagnetic radiation; a user interface that is able to be moved such that a position of the user interface is able to be specified by a value of at least one coordinate of a coordinate system, wherein each coordinate of the coordinate system is associated with a respective property of electromagnetic radiation outputted from the source; and

a controller for controlling each property of the electromagnetic radiation according to the position of the interface.

13. The system according to claim 12, wherein the position of the user interface is able to be specified by respective values of at least two coordinates of the coordinate system, wherein each coordinate of the coordinate system is associated with a different respective property of electromagnetic radiation outputted from the source.

14. The system according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the coordinate system comprises: a Cartesian coordinate system; a polar coordinate system; a cylindrical coordinate system; or a spherical coordinate system.

15. The system according to claim 14, wherein the coordinate system comprises a Cartesian coordinate system having a first Cartesian coordinate and a second Cartesian coordinate, wherein the first Cartesian coordinate is associated with a first property of electromagnetic radiation outputted from the source, and the second Cartesian coordinate is associated with a second property of electromagnetic radiation outputted from the source.

16. The system according to any one of claims 12 to 15, wherein the electromagnetic radiation comprises visible light.

17. The system according to claim 16, wherein the source of electromagnetic radiation comprises a light or illumination source or device.

18. The system according to any one of claims 12 to 17, wherein properties of the electromagnetic radiation comprise: intensity, propagation direction, frequency or wavelength spectrum or colour, or polarisation.

19. The system according to any one of claims 12 to 18, wherein the user interface comprises a globe, sphere or ball and may be hand held.

20. The system according to any one of claims 12 to 19, wherein at least a portion of the user interface permits passage of electromagnetic radiation outputted from the source there-through to at least some extent.

21. The system according to any one of claims 12 to 20, further comprising at least one sensor, the sensor being operable to sense data relating to the position of the user interface.

22. The system according to claim 21 , wherein the at least one sensor comprises a gravity or tilt sensor, a laser sensor, a rotary encoder; a magnetic field variation detector; and/or an optical angle sensor.

23. The system according to any one of claims 12 to 22, wherein the controller comprises a computer.

24. The system according to claim 23, wherein the computer is operable to process signals and data received from at least one sensor and to control operation of the system on the basis of the processing.

25. The system according to claim 23 or 24, wherein the computer comprises a processor means and a storage means, the storage means having software stored thereon, whereby the processor means is operable, under control of the software, to: receive data relating to the position of the user interface; process the received data to determine the value of the at least one coordinate of the coordinate system; and control each property of the electromagnetic radiation according to the determined value.

26.The system of any one of claims 12 to 25, comprising one or more additional user interfaces, each of the one or more additional user interfaces being able to be moved such that a position of a respective one of the one or more additional user interfaces is able to be specified by a value of at least one coordinate of the coordinate system, wherein each coordinate of the coordinate system is associated with a respective property of electromagnetic radiation outputted from the source; and the controller being operable to control each property of the electromagnetic radiation according to the position of a selected one of the user interface or the one or more additional user interfaces.

27 A user interface for use with the system according to any one of claims 12 to 26.

28. A method for providing illumination, the method comprising: specifying a position of a moveable user interface by a value of at least one coordinate of a coordinate system, wherein each coordinate of the coordinate system is associated with a respective property of electromagnetic radiation outputted from an electromagnetic radiation source; and

controlling each property of the electromagnetic radiation according to the position of the user interface.

29. The method of claim 28, wherein the position of the user interface is specified by respective values of at least two coordinates of the coordinate system, wherein each coordinate of the coordinate system is associated with a different respective property of electromagnetic radiation outputted from the source.

30. The method of claim 28 or 29, further comprising sensing data relating to the position of the user interface.

31. The method of any one of claims 28 to 30, further comprising: receiving data relating to the position of the user interface; processing the received data to determine the value of the at least one coordinate of the coordinate system; and controlling each property of the electromagnetic radiation according to the determined value.

32. A computer-readable storage medium on which is stored instructions that, when executed by a computing means, causes the computing means to perform the method according to any one of claims 28 to 31.

33. A computing means programmed to carry out the method according to any one of claims 28 to 31.

34. A data signal including at least one instruction being capable of being received and interpreted by a computing system, wherein the instruction implements the method according to any one of claims 28 to 31.

35. An system for providing illumination, the system comprising: a source of electromagnetic radiation; and a controller for controlling output of electromagnetic radiation from the source in response to an event to influence a characteristic of the provided illumination.

36. A method for providing illumination comprising: controlling output of electromagnetic radiation from a source of electromagnet radiation in response to an event to influence a characteristic of the provided illumination.

37. An system for providing illumination substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

38. A method for providing illumination substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

39. An interface for a system for providing illumination substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying drawings.