JP2005216534A - Illumination control system, illumination control soft downloading server, and communication terminal for illumination control - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To realize an accurate light control, which copes with various setting situations of illumination fixtures and likings of users. <P>SOLUTION: In one or a plurality of illumination fixtures 1, each of which is capable of light adjustment control, by feeding with light control data prepared by the data base server 4 installed on the side of distributors of the illumination fixture 1, an arbitrary lighting control is realized after installing the illumination fixture 1. Therefore, the lighting control is realized coping with, for instance, changes of installing situations of the illumination fixtures 1, and as for a representative example, such as increase or replacement of facilities, in addition to these, relocation of installations, layout changes of room interior, renovation in the case of stores or the like, or with the likings of the users of that illumination fixture 1. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to an illumination control system comprising one or a plurality of lighting fixtures each capable of dimming control and a control device thereof, a novel illumination control software distribution server and illumination control communication constituting the illumination control system. Regarding terminals.

  In recent years, lighting fixtures that are not only turned on / off at the time of use / non-use but also to which lighting control software for dynamically controlling light with the passage of time have been required. As typical examples, the following have already been put into practical use.

  First, there is an alarm illuminating device for the purpose of obtaining a comfortable morning awakening. This is a lighting device that incorporates lighting control software that gradually becomes brighter 30 minutes before the set-up time and lights up 100% at the set time.

  Next, crime prevention lighting control software. This is useful for preventing empty nests, etc. by automatically turning on / off the house lighting with the pattern set by the user when going out and showing it to the outside as if at home. .

  Moreover, the lighting control software aiming at the relaxation effect is mentioned. This creates a lighting environment with a good atmosphere by swinging the brightness of the lamp.

  Furthermore, lighting control software aimed at adjusting a human biological rhythm can be mentioned. There is light as an important thing in adjusting the rhythm of sleep and awakening, the awakening level rises by taking the amount of light necessary in the morning, and awakening by making it not so much at night In light of the human nature of the level being lowered, it is lighting control software that adjusts the biological rhythm by making the brightness of the light brighter during the day and darker at night.

  In these lighting control software, it is important to optimize the dimming level of the lighting fixture so that it can be controlled to a desired brightness at a predetermined position so that the effect can be maximized. For this purpose, target control values are set assuming a standard model room, and one dedicated lighting fixture is developed and sold for each lighting control software. In addition, in the facility, a construction contractor installs the lighting fixture in consideration of the wattage of the lamp of the lighting fixture and the number of lamps so that the designer can obtain a desired illuminance.

  However, as in the prior art described above, the method of developing and selling one dedicated device for one piece of software for controlling lighting is installed due to the limitation of securing a power supply for lighting at home. There is a problem that the number of lighting fixtures that can be produced is limited. That is, for example, a ceiling can be used for the alarm light, the crime prevention light, and the biological rhythm light. However, in a living room, for example, there are one or two hooking power sources to which a ceiling can be attached, and from the viewpoint of installation space, it is not possible to individually attach appliances equipped with the respective lighting control software. The same applies to a bedroom or the like. That is, when a lighting fixture incorporating different lighting control software is purchased and installed, it is necessary to remove the existing lighting fixture. In addition, we have already used a high-performance lighting fixture equipped with lighting control software that is relatively expensive compared to a basic lighting fixture that can only control the normal lighting / extinction level, Replacing with a lighting fixture equipped with another lighting control software is a small possibility, and is a cause of suppressing the spread of lighting fixtures equipped with the lighting control software.

  Thus, as a conventional technique that can be used to solve these problems, there is an illumination control system disclosed in Patent Document 1. This prior art is a lighting control system that includes a lighting control device that controls lighting equipment, a private branch exchange that accommodates a multi-function telephone, and a host computer that is connected to the private branch exchange. It has a host storage device that stores lighting control information related to the ON / OFF of the equipment, and in response to an input command from the multi-function telephone, reads the lighting control information related to this input command, and passes through the private branch exchange. This is transmitted to the lighting control device to control the lighting equipment.

  As another conventional technique, there is a home automation centralized management system disclosed in Patent Document 2. This conventional technology separates the controller of the home device from the control application, mounts the control application in a home automation service provider (ASP server) on the Internet, and connects both with a data communication public line, and has a browser function. This system is characterized in that access and control are performed using a terminal. Therefore, if a plurality of control applications are installed in the home service provider, a desired control application can be freely incorporated into a lighting fixture from a terminal having a browser function.

Furthermore, there exists a lighting fixture monitoring system of patent document 3 as another prior art. This prior art is a lighting monitoring system that includes a WWW server device and a terminal device connected to the WWW server device via the Internet, and monitors a plurality of lighting fixtures using the terminal device. A terminal device comprising: a control state storage unit that stores control state data representing a controlled state of a lighting fixture and that is sequentially rewritten; and a page data generation unit that generates page data that can be displayed on a WWW browser. Includes a browser storage unit for storing a WWW browser and a display unit for displaying page data based on the WWW browser. Therefore, since it is possible to control the lighting fixture using the terminal device, it is possible to perform a lot of control by freely changing the dimming control pattern by the terminal device.
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 9-245970 JP 2002-1111887 A Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 11-255102

  In Patent Document 1, any lighting equipment can be turned on / off simply by changing the lighting control information stored in the host storage device. However, since it is an ON / OFF control program, a dimming function for changing the brightness level is not assumed. In this regard, in Patent Documents 2 and 3, an arbitrary dimming control pattern can be set in the lighting fixture.

  On the other hand, even after the ceiling is installed, for example, a floor stand or a spotlight is increased according to the budget to enhance the light effect. When a plurality of lighting fixtures are installed in this way, if each lighting fixture performs dimming control with individual lighting control software, a high effect cannot be expected as the effect. Further, as in Patent Documents 2 and 3, even if an arbitrary dimming control pattern can be set for the lighting fixture, even if various dimming patterns determined in advance by the manufacturer are input, a high effect can be obtained. I don't know if I can find the pattern In addition, such trial and error requires a lot of labor.

  In addition to such changes in the installation status of lighting fixtures, when multiple lighting fixtures are installed for redesigning rooms, refurbishing in stores, etc., effective dimming in which each lighting fixture cooperates There is a problem that it becomes impossible to control. Furthermore, there is a problem that even if there is no change in the state of the lighting fixture or the room, if the user's preference changes due to the change of the season, for example, it becomes impossible to respond.

  Furthermore, the illumination control software needs to accurately control the illuminance at a specific location, for example, the user's face, in order to obtain the desired effect. However, the amount of light reaching the face varies depending on the height of the room and the furniture provided in the room, and the illuminance on the face varies considerably depending on the location where the user is. In order to strictly control these, it is necessary to install an illuminance sensor or to measure the brightness using an illuminometer on the user side and to change the brightness. However, depending on the location of the illuminance sensor, there is a problem with the reliability of the data, and the illuminometer is something that only a researcher and developer of lighting equipment can have, and a measurement device that is used by ordinary people is not. For this reason, in each of the above-mentioned patent documents, it is difficult to obtain the expected effect even if a dimming control pattern can be set for each lighting fixture.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a lighting control system, a lighting control software distribution server, and a lighting control communication terminal that can respond to changes in the installation conditions of various lighting fixtures and user preferences and perform accurate dimming control. Is to provide.

  The lighting control system of the present invention provides dimming data created by a data creation device installed on the seller side of the lighting fixture to one or a plurality of lighting fixtures each capable of dimming control. Arbitrary dimming control is realized after installation.

  According to the above configuration, for example, a change in the installation situation of a lighting fixture, a typical one being added or replaced, a relocation, a redesign of a room, a renovation in a store, etc. According to the user's preference etc., for example, the user installs the lighting fixture on the seller side, for example, manufacturer, sales company, separately established data creation company, etc. by any communication means such as telecommunications or mail If the change or the preference is communicated, the data creation device installed on the seller side realized by a server computer or the like, the dimming data suitable for the installation status or preference is created, the telecommunications, A desired dimming control suitable for the installation situation is realized by being given to the lighting fixture by any communication means such as mailing of a medium such as a memory card.

  Therefore, when each lighting fixture can perform dimming control only with a dimming pattern determined in advance by the manufacturer as in the past, it can cope with various changes in the installation status of the lighting fixtures and user preferences. On the other hand, in the present invention, it is possible to realize dimming control with a high degree of perfection in cooperation with them, especially when a large number of luminaires are installed, and correspondingly to them. It is possible to respond flexibly whenever the installation situation changes and whenever the user's preference changes (for example, depending on the season).

  Also, by changing the dimming data, it is possible to use multiple lighting control software with a single lighting fixture, eliminating the need to purchase and install lighting fixtures according to the software you want to use. Furthermore, the present invention makes it possible to use a plurality of lighting control software in a single room because of the limitation of the number of appliances installed due to problems of securing power sources and installation space. Can do. In addition, by making it possible to customize the dimming data obtained by the lighting control software for each user's usage environment, it is possible to accurately control the light output for each lighting control software, and the effect of the lighting control software is sufficient. Be able to get.

  In the lighting control system of the present invention, the data creation device includes at least information on the lighting fixture, information on a space in which the lighting fixture is installed, and information on a person existing in the space. The basic data is calculated according to each information obtained by the reception unit given from the side, the basic data storage unit storing the basic data necessary for creating the dimming data, and the reception unit A dimming data creation unit for processing and creating dimming data individually adapted for each user, and an output unit for outputting the dimming data created by the dimming data creation unit Features.

  According to the above configuration, the information given from the user side by the telecommunications or mail, etc., information on the lighting equipment such as the model number of the lighting equipment, the layout and size of the room, the arrangement and size of the furniture, In addition, in the room, information on the space where the lighting fixtures are installed, such as where the lighting fixtures are installed, which part of the room, in what state (posture, posture), and how many people Specifically realizing a data creation device capable of responding to changes in the installation status of the various lighting fixtures and user preferences by including at least information about people existing in the space, such as Can do.

  Furthermore, the lighting control system of the present invention has a communication terminal that can access the data creation device via a network on the user side where the lighting fixture is installed, and the communication terminal is operated by a user input operation. , At least information about the lighting fixtures, information about the space where the lighting fixtures are installed, information input about a person existing in the space, and information input from the input unit by accessing the data creation device A transmitter for transmitting the light, a receiver for receiving the dimming data created by the data creation device, and a control device for performing dimming control of the lighting fixture, or the control device is built in the lighting fixture. When it is, the lighting fixture is configured to include a dimming data transmission unit that transmits dimming data received by the receiving unit.

  According to the above configuration, the information given from the user side includes information on the lighting fixture such as the model number of the lighting fixture, the layout and size of the room, the arrangement and size of the furniture, and the lighting in the room. Information on the space where the lighting equipment is installed, such as where the equipment is installed, and in what part of the room, in what state (posture, posture) and how many people exist Including at least information about a person existing in space, transmitting this information to the data creation device via a network, receiving the created dimming data, and setting the control device to control the lighting fixture, It is possible to specifically realize an illumination control system that can cope with changes in installation conditions of various lighting fixtures and user preferences.

  Moreover, the lighting control system of the present invention includes a lighting control data storage unit capable of storing a plurality of types of lighting control data created by the data creation device in the lighting fixture, the control device, or the communication terminal, and the control The apparatus includes a dimming data selection unit that selects the plurality of types of dimming data.

  According to the above configuration, a dimming data storage unit capable of storing a plurality of types of dimming data acquired from the data creation device is provided, and desired control is performed by selecting with the control device. When controlling with a dimming pattern that is different from that of the night, it is not necessary to acquire data each time the dimming pattern is switched, and it is possible to easily switch between them and to acquire the dimming data such as communication costs. Can also be reduced.

  Furthermore, in the lighting control system of the present invention, the communication terminal is a mobile phone equipped with an Internet browser accessible to the data creation device via the Internet and a short-range wireless communication means for communicating with the control device. Terminal device or portable information terminal.

  According to the above configuration, a communication terminal that transmits user-side information as described above to the data creation device and sets the obtained dimming data in the control device can be realized with a relatively simple configuration. it can. That is, the Internet browser has already been widely installed in mobile phone terminal devices. For example, as the short-range wireless communication means, a so-called infrared remote control communication method, infrared data communication standard (IrDA), This can be realized with a configuration that has been installed in the terminal device of the cellular phone corresponding to the wireless LAN standard (IEEE802.11) or the like.

  In the illumination control system of the present invention, the communication terminal includes an imaging unit that captures an image of a space in which the lighting fixture is installed, and the image captured by the imaging unit is transmitted from the transmission unit to the data. The data creating apparatus analyzes the received image and creates information on a space in which the lighting fixture is installed.

  According to the above configuration, using a digital camera or the like mounted on a mobile phone terminal device as the communication terminal, an image of a space in which the lighting fixture is installed is captured and transmitted to the data creation device Then, the data creation apparatus analyzes the image and creates information on the space in which the lighting fixture is installed, thereby simplifying the input work of complicated space information such as floor plan and arrangement of furniture. be able to.

  Furthermore, in the lighting control system of the present invention, the communication terminal has a home on which an Internet browser that can access the data creation device via the Internet and power line communication means that communicates with the control device via a power line. It is a server.

  According to the above configuration, a communication terminal that transmits information on the user side as described above to the data creation device and sets the obtained dimming data in the control device is a function of a home server that is expected to be widely used. As a result, a special configuration can be omitted.

  In the lighting control system of the present invention, the communication terminal is a remote controller that can also control the lighting fixture.

  According to said structure, the transmission part mounted in this remote control can be shared for transmission of the said light control data by giving the function of the said communication terminal to the remote control for controlling a lighting fixture.

  Furthermore, the illumination control system of the present invention includes a dimming data variable unit for varying the dimming pattern in the communication terminal or the control device, and is created on the data creation device, and the communication terminal or the control device includes After the dimming data is transmitted, it is possible to vary the dimming pattern using the dimming data variable unit without accessing the data creation device.

  According to the above configuration, in the case of a simple change that changes the overall illuminance even in the same time zone, for example, due to a seasonal change, etc. The dimming pattern can be easily varied by the dimming data varying unit provided in the communication terminal or the control device.

  In the illumination control system of the present invention, the data creation device further includes control image creation means for creating a control image image based on the created light control data, and the communication terminal is configured to receive the control image image at the receiving unit. And a display means for displaying the control image.

  According to the above configuration, the user can see what dimming control is actually produced by the information transmitted to the seller, and the user can display the screen of the seller's homepage displayed on the display means of the communication terminal. Depending on the result, review the arrangement of the lighting fixtures, enter the desired, and acquire the dimming data again, etc., to the dimming pattern that the user imagines, You can get closer.

  Furthermore, in the lighting control system of the present invention, the communication terminal transmits information on the use result of the dimming data to the data creation device after a predetermined period has elapsed since the reception of the dimming data, and creates the data. The apparatus includes a correcting unit that corrects the transmitted dimming data based on the received information, and transmits the corrected dimming data to the communication terminal again.

  According to the above configuration, the seller grasps the usage status of the dimming data provided to the user, corrects the dimming data that has already been transmitted, if necessary, and transmits it again. Therefore, it is possible to complete a lighting control system that is frequently used and closer to the user's wishes. Moreover, it can also be reflected on development of new illumination control software from the said utilization condition.

  In the lighting control system of the present invention, the data creation device has a storage unit for storing a history of dimming data used in the past, and newly downloads the dimming data from the dimming data history. It is characterized in that a part of the input of information necessary for doing so is omitted.

  According to the above configuration, when only a part of the information necessary for the calculation of the light control data is changed, only the information with the change is input, and the information without the change is stored in the past. By using history data, information input work can be reduced.

  Furthermore, in the lighting control system of the present invention, the communication terminal data creation device totals the usage records in which the dimming data has been downloaded, charges according to the usage records, and sets a predetermined period from the start of usage. Further has a billing means for delaying the billing.

  According to the above-described configuration, the user can purchase appropriately because it is possible to charge appropriately according to the system upgrade of the lighting control system, and a period during which the software can be experienced for free before purchasing the lighting control software. It is also possible to purchase after confirming the effects by experiencing multiple lighting control software before.

  The lighting control software distribution server according to the present invention is installed on the lighting equipment seller side and is composed of dimming data adapted to one or a plurality of the lighting equipment installed on the user side and capable of dimming control. By creating and distributing control software, any dimming control can be realized after installation of the lighting fixture.

  According to the above configuration, in accordance with a change in the installation situation of the lighting fixtures or the user's preference, the user can, for example, communicate with a seller such as a manufacturer, a sales company, a separately created data creation company, or the like. When the change of the installation status of the lighting fixture or the preference is transmitted by any communication means such as mail or mail, the lighting control software distribution server sends the lighting control software composed of dimming data suitable for the installation status and preference. The lighting control software created and given to the lighting fixture by any communication means such as the electric communication or the mailing of a medium such as a memory card, etc. realizes the desired dimming control suitable for the installation situation Is done.

  Therefore, in the case where each lighting fixture can perform dimming control only with a dimming pattern determined in advance by the manufacturer as in the past, it cannot cope with changes in the installation status of various lighting fixtures and user preferences. On the other hand, in the present invention, it is possible to realize a dimming control with a high degree of perfection in cooperation with them, particularly when a large number of lighting fixtures are installed, in particular, corresponding to them. It is possible to respond flexibly whenever the situation changes and whenever the user's preference changes (for example, depending on the season).

  Also, by changing the dimming data, it is possible to use multiple lighting control software with a single lighting fixture, eliminating the need to purchase and install lighting fixtures according to the software you want to use. Furthermore, the present invention makes it possible to use a plurality of lighting control software in a single room because of the limitation of the number of appliances installed due to problems of securing power sources and installation space. Can do. In addition, by making it possible to customize the dimming data obtained by the lighting control software for each user's usage environment, it is possible to accurately control the light output for each lighting control software, and the effect of the lighting control software is sufficient. Be able to get.

  Furthermore, the lighting control software distribution server of the present invention provides at least information about the lighting fixture, information about the space where the lighting fixture is installed, and information about a person existing in the space from the user side where the lighting fixture is installed. According to each information obtained in the reception unit, the basic data storage unit storing the basic data necessary to create the dimming data, and the information obtained in the reception unit, A dimming data creation unit that creates lighting control software composed of dimming data individually adapted to each user, and an output unit that outputs the lighting control software created by the dimming data creation unit It is characterized by that.

  According to the above configuration, the information given from the user side by the telecommunications or mail, etc., information on the lighting equipment such as the model number of the lighting equipment, the layout and size of the room, the arrangement and size of the furniture, In addition, in the room, information on the space where the lighting fixtures are installed, such as where the lighting fixtures are installed, which part of the room, in what state (posture, posture), and how many people Realize a lighting control software distribution server that can respond to changes in installation conditions of various lighting fixtures and user preferences by including at least information about people in the space, such as can do.

  Moreover, the communication terminal for lighting control of the present invention is provided on the user side where one or a plurality of lighting fixtures each capable of dimming control is installed, and is installed on the seller side of the lighting fixtures via the network. Arbitrary dimming control is realized after installing the lighting fixture by accessing the software distribution server and giving the lighting fixture the lighting control software distributed from the lighting control software distribution server.

  According to said structure, according to the change of the installation condition of a lighting fixture, a user's liking, etc., the said user is installed in the seller side, such as a manufacturer, a sales company, a data creation company established separately, etc., for example. When the control software distribution server is accessed and changes in the installation status of the lighting fixtures and preferences are communicated, the lighting control software distribution server creates lighting control software consisting of dimming data suitable for the installation status and preferences. Then, the lighting control software is given to the communication terminal via the network, and is given from the communication terminal to the lighting fixture, thereby realizing desired dimming control suitable for the installation situation.

  Therefore, in the case where each lighting fixture can perform dimming control only with a dimming pattern determined in advance by the manufacturer as in the past, it cannot cope with changes in the installation status of various lighting fixtures and user preferences. On the other hand, in the present invention, it is possible to realize a dimming control with a high degree of perfection in cooperation with them, particularly when a large number of lighting fixtures are installed, in particular, corresponding to them. It is possible to respond flexibly whenever the situation changes and whenever the user's preference changes (for example, depending on the season).

  Also, by changing the dimming data, it is possible to use multiple lighting control software with a single lighting fixture, eliminating the need to purchase and install lighting fixtures according to the software you want to use. Furthermore, the present invention makes it possible to use a plurality of lighting control software in a single room because of the limitation of the number of appliances installed due to problems of securing power sources and installation space. Can do. In addition, by making it possible to customize the dimming data obtained by the lighting control software for each user's usage environment, it is possible to accurately control the light output for each lighting control software, and the effect of the lighting control software is sufficient. Be able to get.

  Furthermore, the communication terminal for lighting control according to the present invention is an input unit for inputting at least information related to a lighting fixture, information about a space in which the lighting fixture is installed, and information about a person existing in the space by a user input operation. A transmitting unit that accesses the lighting control software distribution server and transmits information input from the input unit, a receiving unit that receives the lighting control software created by the lighting control software distribution server, and the lighting fixture Dimming that transmits dimming data by the lighting control software received by the receiving unit to a control device that performs dimming control of the light, or when the control device is incorporated in the lighting fixture And a data transmission unit.

  According to the above configuration, the information given from the user side includes information on the lighting fixture such as the model number of the lighting fixture, the layout and size of the room, the arrangement and size of the furniture, and the lighting in the room. Information on the space where the lighting equipment is installed, such as where the equipment is installed, which part of the room, what state (posture, posture), how many people etc. Including at least information about a person existing in the space, transmitting this information to the lighting control software distribution server via the network, receiving the created dimming data, and setting the control device to control the lighting fixture In addition, it is possible to specifically realize an illumination control system that can cope with changes in installation conditions of the various lighting fixtures and user preferences.

  As described above, the lighting control system of the present invention provides dimming data created by a data creation device installed on the seller side of the lighting fixtures to one or a plurality of lighting fixtures each capable of dimming control. Thus, any dimming control is realized after installation of the lighting fixture.

  Therefore, it can respond to changes in the installation situation of various lighting fixtures and user's preference finely, especially when a large number of lighting fixtures are installed, to realize dimming control with high degree of perfection coordinated with them. It is possible to respond flexibly whenever the installation status changes and whenever the user's preference changes.

  Also, by changing the dimming data, it is possible to use multiple lighting control software with a single lighting fixture, eliminating the need to purchase and install lighting fixtures according to the software you want to use. Furthermore, the present invention makes it possible to use a plurality of lighting control software in a single room because of the limitation of the number of appliances installed due to problems of securing power sources and installation space. Can do. In addition, by making it possible to customize the dimming data obtained by the lighting control software for each user's usage environment, it is possible to accurately control the light output for each lighting control software, and the effect of the lighting control software is sufficient. Be able to get.

  In addition, as described above, the lighting control software distribution server of the present invention is installed on the lighting equipment seller side, and is adjusted to one or more lighting equipments installed on the user side and capable of dimming control. Arbitrary dimming control is realized after installation of the lighting fixtures by creating and distributing lighting control software consisting of optical data.

  Therefore, it can respond to changes in the installation situation of various lighting fixtures and user's preference finely, especially when a large number of lighting fixtures are installed, to realize dimming control with high degree of perfection coordinated with them. It is possible to respond flexibly whenever the installation status changes and whenever the user's preference changes.

  Also, by changing the dimming data, it is possible to use multiple lighting control software with a single lighting fixture, eliminating the need to purchase and install lighting fixtures according to the software you want to use. Furthermore, the present invention makes it possible to use a plurality of lighting control software in a single room because of the limitation of the number of appliances installed due to problems of securing power sources and installation space. Can do. In addition, by making it possible to customize the dimming data obtained by the lighting control software for each user's usage environment, it is possible to accurately control the light output for each lighting control software, and the effect of the lighting control software is sufficient. Be able to get.

  In addition, as described above, the communication terminal for lighting control of the present invention is provided on the user side where one or a plurality of lighting fixtures each capable of dimming control is installed, and on the seller side of the lighting fixtures via the network. Arbitrary dimming control is realized after installation of the lighting fixture by accessing the installed lighting control software delivery server and providing the lighting fixture with the lighting control software delivered from the lighting control software delivery server.

  Therefore, it can respond to changes in the installation situation of various lighting fixtures and user's preference finely, especially when a large number of lighting fixtures are installed, to realize dimming control with high degree of perfection coordinated with them. It is possible to respond flexibly whenever the installation status changes and whenever the user's preference changes.

  Also, by changing the dimming data, it is possible to use multiple lighting control software with a single lighting fixture, eliminating the need to purchase and install lighting fixtures according to the software you want to use. Furthermore, the present invention makes it possible to use a plurality of lighting control software in a single room because of the limitation of the number of appliances installed due to problems of securing power sources and installation space. Can do. In addition, by making it possible to customize the dimming data obtained by the lighting control software for each user's usage environment, it is possible to accurately control the light output for each lighting control software, and the effect of the lighting control software is sufficient. Be able to get.

[Embodiment 1]
The following describes the first embodiment of the present invention with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a system configuration of a lighting control system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The lighting control system includes one or a plurality of lighting fixtures 1 (shown as one in FIG. 1) each capable of dimming control, a control device 2 that controls the lighting fixture 1, and the lighting fixture 1 The communication terminal 3 that transmits 1 dimming data, and the luminaire 1 is installed on the seller side of the luminaire 1 such as a manufacturer, a sales company, or a data creation company established separately from them, and the dimming data of the luminaire 1 A database server 4 that provides lighting control software, and an Internet 5 and a mobile communication network 6 that connect the communication terminal 3 and the database server 4 to each other. Then, by providing the lighting fixture 1 with the dimming data created by the database server 4, any dimming control is realized after the lighting fixture 1 is installed.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram for explaining a specific configuration of each apparatus in the system configuration of FIG. The lighting fixture 1 includes a lamp 11, a lighting device 12, a dimming control device 13, a dimming data storage unit 14 for storing dimming data received by the control device 2, and data from the control device 2. And a dimming data receiving unit 15 for receiving the light. While the dimming control is performed, the dimming data storage unit 14 is omitted by continuing to receive the dimming data from the control device 2 at a predetermined time interval. Can do.

  The control device 2 includes a dimming data receiving unit 21 that receives dimming data from the communication terminal 3, a dimming data storage unit 22 that stores the received dimming data, and a dimming data storage unit 22 as described later. A dimming data selection unit 23 that selects dimming data to be transmitted to the lighting fixture 1 or selects dimming data to be controlled by the lighting fixture 1, and a dimming data transmission unit that transmits the dimming data to the lighting fixture 1 24.

  For example, a remote controller as shown in FIG. A so-called infrared remote control communication method using an infrared port 25 is used for transmission / reception of data to / from the communication terminal 3 and the luminaire 1 by the dimming data transmitting unit 24 and the dimming data receiving unit 21. As other communication methods, infrared data communication standards (IrDA), RF (Radio Frequency), Bluetooth (registered trademark), wireless LAN standards (IEEE 802.11), and the like are also conceivable. The dimming data storage unit 22 may be a non-volatile, rewritable RAM, flash memory, EPROM, EEPROM, or the like. As the dimming data selection unit 23, a user interface having various buttons 27a to 27j on the liquid crystal screen 26 as shown in FIG. 3 can be considered.

  The software selection screen button 27a is a button for calling the selection screen of the lighting control software, the software erasing screen button 27b is a button for calling the erasing screen of the lighting control software, and the software control start / stop button 27c is dimming. It is a button for instructing start / stop of control, the decision / confirmation button 27d is a button for inputting decision / confirmation of input at each button, and the fluorescent lamp full lamp button 27e is a lighting fixture 1 to be controlled. Is a button for full lighting by manual operation when the lamp is a fluorescent lamp, and a fluorescent light dimming button 27f is a button for dimming control by manual operation when the lighting fixture 1 to be controlled is a fluorescent lamp The incandescent lamp dimming button 27g is a button for dimming control by manual operation when the lighting fixture 1 to be controlled is an incandescent lamp, The button 27h is a button for turning off the luminaire 1 to be controlled, and the up button 27i is a button for moving in the bright direction at the time of dimming control, and is a button for moving the cursor upward in the selection screen. The button 27j is a button for moving in the dark direction during dimming control and moving the cursor downward on the selection screen.

  The dimming data of the lighting control software acquired from the database server 4 is stored in the dimming data storage unit 22, and there is no need to acquire the data each time for repeated control. The dimming data storage unit 22 further stores dimming data of a plurality of types of illumination control software, which can be selected and used by the dimming data selection unit 23. FIG. 4 shows a procedure for selecting the lighting control software.

  First, as shown in FIG. 4A, a screen for selecting software to be controlled is displayed by pressing the software selection screen button 27a. Then, as shown in FIG. 4B and FIG. 4C, a list of lighting control software downloaded from the database server 4 is displayed on the liquid crystal screen 26. The software to be used is selected using the up button 27i and the down button 27j, and the enter / confirm button 27d is pressed. In FIG. 4B, the wake-up software is selected, and in FIG. 4C, the relaxation software is selected. When selected, a setting screen dedicated to the selected software as shown in FIG. 4D or FIG. 4E is displayed. Here, the waking software setting screen of FIG. 4D will be described. The wake-up time is input by the up button 27i and the down button 27j, the enter / confirm button 27d is pressed, and the soft control start / stop button 27c is pressed. Push. Control is thereby started, and the name of the software currently being controlled is displayed at the bottom of the screen as shown in FIG.

  On the other hand, the communication terminal 3 is realized by a mobile phone terminal device or a mobile information terminal equipped with WWW browser software capable of browsing and writing on a homepage on the Internet (in the example of FIG. 1, a mobile phone). Terminal device). Therefore, the communication terminal 3 includes a communication unit 34 for connecting to the Internet 5, a user information input unit 35 for a user to input information, and a dimming data transmission unit 31 for transmitting dimming data to the control device 2. The dimming data storage unit 32 for storing the dimming data received from the database server 4 via the Internet 5 and the dimming data to be transmitted from the dimming data storage unit 32 to the control device 2 are selected, or the lighting fixture 1 And a dimming data selection unit 33 for selecting dimming data to be controlled.

  The communication unit 34 can be connected to a mobile communication network 6 of a mobile phone company, and the user information input unit 35 is a user interface of the terminal device of the mobile phone. The dimming data transmission unit 31 for transmission is an infrared port. The data communication with the control device 2 may use the infrared data communication standard, RF, Bluetooth, wireless LAN standard, or the like. Further, as the dimming data storage unit 32 for storing dimming data, it is possible to use a nonvolatile RAM, flash memory, EPROM, EEPROM or the like that is nonvolatile and rewritable.

  The database server 4 stores a communication unit 41 for connecting to the Internet 5, a user information registration / verification unit 42 for registering / verifying user information received from the communication terminal 3 as described later, and user information. A dimming data creating unit 44 for automatically creating dimming data for controlling the lighting fixture 1 based on the received user information storage unit 43, information received from the communication terminal 3, and creating dimming data A basic data storage unit 45 that stores basic data necessary for the calculation, a cost calculation unit 46 that calculates a purchase cost for the dimming data (lighting control software) transmitted to the user, and a service provided (lighting control) A cost data storage unit 47 that stores costs corresponding to software) in advance, and a cost billing unit 48 that charges the purchase cost calculated by the cost calculation unit 46 to the user. Ete is configured. In the user information storage unit 43, personal identification information such as a user's name, address, and telephone number input from the user information input unit 35 and transmitted to the database server 4 and user dimming data are created. Predetermined condition data and the created dimming data are stored. The database server 4 is realized by a Web server using a personal computer, for example.

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the illumination control system configured as described above. The user uses the communication terminal 3 to access the lighting control software sales site of the database server 4 via the Internet 5. Therefore, for the first access, a user ID and a password are newly registered. If it is not the first access, the registered user ID and password are input (S1). The user information registration / verification unit 42 of the database server 4 determines whether or not access is permitted from the input user information (S2). If the access permission is given, the database server 4 displays a website with a list of lighting control software (S3). Therefore, the user selects the desired lighting control software (S4).

  Here, when the user wants to see the control image of the lighting control software, the user requests image display (S5). The database server 4 searches the control image of the requested software from the database (S6), and dynamically displays the control image (S7). The user checks the displayed image for confirmation (S8), and if the selected software is acceptable, the process proceeds to the next step (S9).

  Subsequently, an input screen for optimizing the dimming level in accordance with the use environment of the user is displayed (S10). Information on the lighting fixture 1 to be controlled, for example, the model number of the fixture or the model number of the lamp is input (S11). Next, information on the space in which the lighting fixture 1 to be controlled is installed is input (S12). The space information includes, for example, the ceiling height and the room size. Next, as shown in FIG. 6, for example, as user information, the position of the place used by the user corresponding to the selected lighting control software, for example, the waking software, the position of the bed in the room, the bed Enter the position of the head at. If it is biological rhythm adjustment software, the user's bedtime / wake-up time is input (S13). These input data are sent to the database server 4 and stored in the user information storage unit 43, and the dimming data creation unit 44 calculates the input data based on the basic data stored in the basic data storage unit 45. Then, the dimming data of the lighting fixture 1 is calculated (S14). Thus, the light control data is determined on the database and transmitted to the communication terminal 3 (S15, S16).

  The dimming data transmitted to the communication terminal 3 is transmitted to the control device 2 (S17, S18) and stored in the dimming data storage unit 22 (S19). The user selects the dimming data (illumination control software) stored in the dimming data storage unit 22 in the control device 2 (S20), and transmits it to the lighting fixture 1 to start the control (S21, S22). ).

  FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining in detail an example of a display screen on the communication terminal 3 when the lighting control software shown in FIG. 5 is downloaded. The user uses the communication terminal 3 shown in FIG. 7A to access the purchase / sales site shown in FIG. 7B. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 7C, a user ID and a password are input. If it is a new access, user registration is performed as shown in FIGS. 7 (d) to 7 (e).

  When access approval is obtained, the screen shifts to a list of lighting control software and an explanation of the software as shown in FIG. 7 (f), and the user selects desired software from the list. The control image of the selected lighting control software is displayed as an animation and can be confirmed on the display screen as shown in FIG.

  Thereafter, in order to calculate dimming data, the product number or the product name of the lighting fixture 1, the lamp product number or the lamp product name, etc. are input on the appliance information input screen as shown in FIG. Next, the screen shifts to a use space information input screen as shown in FIG. 7I, and the ceiling height and the room size are input. Next, the screen shifts to a user information input screen as shown in FIG. 6 and FIG. 7 (j), and information corresponding to (required) the selected lighting control software is input. For example, in the case of the awakening software, the positions of the lighting device 1 and the head during sleep are input. In addition, questions regarding sleep states as shown in FIG. 7K (whether it is difficult to wake up in the morning, whether the bedtime / wake-up time is not disturbed, whether to sleep at night), etc. are answered. After the input, pressing the OK button moves to an input confirmation screen as shown in FIG.

  Subsequently, the process proceeds to approval, and, for example, as shown in FIG. 7 (m), one of “consideration of purchase in trial period”, “approval”, and “cancel” is selected. When purchasing immediately, the screen shifts to an explanation screen of a charging method for obtaining a use approval key. Here, description will be made assuming trial use.

  When the OK button is pressed for trial use, the screen shifts to the download screen shown in FIG. By pressing the download button on the screen, the database server 4 shown in FIG. 7 (o) calculates dimming data suitable for the user and creates customized lighting control software. The lighting control software is transmitted (downloaded) to the communication terminal 3 shown in FIG. 7 (p) and stored in the dimming data storage unit 32 (see FIG. 2). The light control data is transferred to the control device 2 shown in FIG. 7 (q) by infrared communication and stored in the light control data storage unit 22 (see FIG. 2). Thereafter, the lighting control software is started by selecting the lighting control software from the communication terminal 3 or the control device 2 and transmitting the dimming data of the selected lighting control software to the lighting fixture 1 shown in FIG. The

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart for explaining in detail the calculation processing of the light control data in step S14. The calculation method here is a simple method in which the luminaire 1 is regarded as a point light source and only direct light from the luminaire 1 is targeted, and there is also a calculation method for obtaining a more exact value. In this example, it is assumed that the awakening software is selected in the selection of the control software in step S4.

  The user uses the communication terminal 3 to input the model number of the lighting fixture 1, the model number of the lamp, and the lamp usage time as information about the lighting fixture 1 (S11). When this data is received (S141), the database server 4 transmits the light distribution data (relation data between the light emission angle and the light intensity [cd]) and the luminous flux [by the combination of the luminaire 1 and the lamp used by the user. lm] data is retrieved from the basic data storage unit 45. Further, the lamp output decrease rate (U) data is also retrieved from the lamp usage time (S142).

  Next, information on the space in which the lighting fixture 1 to be controlled is installed is input. The space information includes ceiling height, room frontage, and depth (S12). Next, as the user information, the position of the head at the time of sleep and the height of the bed (if the bed is not a bed, data indicating the height from the floor to the head such as the thickness of the futon) are input (S13). The head position data during sleep is input by the user using the graphic as shown in FIG. The size of the plan view of the graphic changes from the ceiling height, room frontage, and depth data input in advance, and the position is determined by moving icons representing the lighting fixture 1 and the head on the screen. From this data, the dimming data creation unit 44 of the database server 4 calculates the light incident angle (θ) from the lighting device 1 to the user's face and the distance (L) between the lighting device 1 and the user's face. To do. From the calculation result and the light distribution data, the light intensity (I) in the light incident angle (θ) direction is obtained (S143).

  On the other hand, the user information is declared for the wake-up time (how many minutes before the wake-up setting time, etc.) based on the good / badness of waking up at the time of wake-up and the set-up time (S13). From this data, the control time of the awakening software (how many minutes before the wake-up set time is controlled) and the maximum illuminance data at the wake-up set time are obtained (S144). Based on the data of step S144 and the basic dimming control curve of the waking software, the relationship between the time (t) when the control start time is 0 and the illuminance data (Et) of the user's face at an arbitrary time t is A table to represent is created (S145).

Next, the light intensity (I) corresponding to the illuminance data (Et) is obtained from the formula It = ((Et * I ² ) / cos (θ)) * U (It corresponds to the elapsed time t from the start of control). Intensity, * is multiplication operator). Then, at the incident angle (θ), the luminous flux value for obtaining the luminous intensity It is obtained (S146). In this manner, the dimming rate of the luminous flux output value for obtaining a luminous intensity It on the face at the incident angle (θ) with respect to the luminous flux at 100% output considering the current lamp output reduction rate is obtained. Thus, the light output level Lt required at an arbitrary time t from the start of control can be obtained. Then, a data table of the light output level Lt with respect to time t is created (S147), and dimming data to be transmitted to the control device 2 is created (S148).

  The dimming data thus created by the database server 4 and given to the control device 2 can be varied within a certain range without accessing the database server 4 by the communication terminal 3 or the control device 2. Also good. By doing so, it is possible to cope with individual differences (preferences) that are not reflected in the above calculation. Also, it is not a major change such as redesigning the room, but complicated information must be entered even in the case of a simple change that changes the overall illuminance even during the same time period, for example due to seasonal changes. Disappear.

  The dimming data (lighting control software) may be always provided free of charge for sales promotion on the seller side of the lighting fixture 1, and a predetermined trial period may be provided and thereafter charged. Alternatively, the usage fee for a predetermined period or the usage fee for a predetermined number of software may be included in the sales price of the lighting apparatus 1, and charging may be performed by exceeding the usage fee. In addition, the actual usage fee may be collected directly by a company established by the seller, or may be performed on behalf of an Internet 5 provider or a mobile phone company.

  The following describes the flow of update processing that accompanies the end of the trial period and the downloading of a prescribed number of software. This operation is performed on the homepage of the software purchase / sales site. For example, on the control device 2 side, after the dimming data (lighting control software) is downloaded as described above, when a predetermined trial period, for example, one week has elapsed, that is displayed on the display unit 26, In response, the user accesses the home page, or the trial result is good and the user accesses before the end of the trial period. During the trial period, the user can consider whether or not to purchase the downloaded lighting control software. By this work, charging is performed, and a key for continuously using the downloaded software is obtained.

  First, the lighting control software sales site is accessed, a user ID and a password are input, and a key acquisition screen is displayed. Here, the download history of the user is displayed, and the software for which the user wants to obtain the key (continue use or want to use it again) is selected. Next, the payment method selection screen is displayed, and a payment method is selected from credits or money exclusively for Internet shops such as WebMoney. If a credit card is selected, the screen moves to a screen for inputting a credit card number. When the settlement button is pressed, a message indicating completion of settlement is displayed, and the screen shifts to a key download screen. Therefore, by pressing the download button, the key is downloaded to the memory of the communication terminal 3 (a partial area of the dimming data storage unit 32 may be used or may be provided separately). The downloaded key is transmitted from the communication terminal 3 to the control device 2 by using infrared communication. As a result, the software expiration date key stored in the memory of the control device 2 (a partial area of the dimming data storage unit 22 may be used or may be provided separately) is a downloaded key. Is released and the use is continued or resumed.

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart specifically showing the update process. The user determines whether or not to continue to use the lighting control software after the trial period or before (S51), and when not using or changing to another lighting control software, After the trial period ends, the lighting control software whose trial period has ended cannot be selected by the dimming data selection unit 23 using the expiration date key, and the use is stopped (S52).

  On the other hand, if the user wants to continue using or wants to resume the use, he / she accesses the purchase sales site to purchase the continuous use approval key and makes a purchase request to the database server 4 (S53). . In response to this, the cost calculation unit 46 of the database server 4 refers to the cost data storage unit 47 to calculate the software charge amount (S54), and the cost request unit 48 requests payment method selection ( In S55, the user selects a payment method (S56). Thereafter, when information input according to the selected payment method is performed (S57), the user information registration / verification unit 42 of the database server 4 stores the data input by the user (S58).

  When the accounting process is thus completed, a key is transmitted from the user information storage unit (S59). When the key data is received by the communication terminal 3 (S60), it is transmitted to the control device 2 (S61). The control device 2 analyzes the received key data (S62), and changes the program with the expiration date of the corresponding dimming data to a program that can be used continuously (S63). The state becomes usable (S64).

  Such work may be performed by a personal computer or the like connected to the Internet 5 separate from the communication terminal 3, and if the user sets the acquired key data in the control device 2 or the communication terminal 3. Good.

  As described above, the lighting control system of the present invention gives dimming data created by the database server 4 installed on the seller side of the lighting fixtures to one or a plurality of lighting fixtures 1 each capable of dimming control. Therefore, any dimming control is realized after the installation of the luminaire 1, for example, a change in the installation status of the luminaire 1, typically, an expansion or replacement, a relocation, a room remodeling, a store For example, when a large number of lighting fixtures 1 are installed, it is possible to realize dimming control with a high degree of perfection in cooperation with the user. At the same time, it is possible to respond flexibly whenever the installation status changes and whenever the user's preference changes (for example, depending on the season).

  Also, by changing the dimming data, it is possible to use a plurality of lighting control software with one lighting fixture 1, and there is no need to purchase and install lighting fixtures according to the software to be used. Furthermore, the present invention makes it possible to use a plurality of lighting control software in a single room because of the limitation of the number of appliances installed due to problems of securing power sources and installation space. Can do. In addition, by making it possible to customize the dimming data obtained by the lighting control software for each user's usage environment, it is possible to accurately control the light output for each lighting control software, and the effect of the lighting control software is sufficient. To be able to get to.

  In the above example, the lighting control software is purchased or downloaded via the Internet 5. However, for example, the application is made by mail or the like, and the lighting control software is distributed on a recording medium such as a memory card. May be. Also, the key for continuous use may be notified to the user by mail, and the user may input from the communication terminal 3 or the like.

  The dimming data storage units 32 and 22 can store a plurality of types of dimming data, and perform desired control by selecting them with the dimming data selection units 33 and 23. When controlling with dimming patterns that are different between daytime and nighttime, it is not necessary to acquire data each time the dimming pattern is switched, and it is possible to easily switch and acquire dimming data such as communication costs. The cost required for this can also be reduced.

  Furthermore, as the communication terminal 3, a mobile phone terminal device or a mobile phone equipped with an internet browser capable of accessing the database server 4 via the internet 5 and a short-range wireless communication means for communicating with the control device 2. By using the information terminal, the communication terminal 3 that transmits information on the user side and sets the obtained dimming data in the control device 2 can be realized with a relatively easy configuration. That is, the Internet browser is already widely installed in mobile phone terminal devices, and for example, as the short-range wireless communication means, the infrared remote control communication method, infrared data communication standard, Bluetooth, This can be realized with a configuration that has been installed in the mobile phone terminal device that supports the wireless LAN standard and the like.

  In addition, the database server 4 totals the usage records in which the dimming data has been downloaded, and charges according to the usage records. In addition, the charging is suspended during a predetermined trial period from the start of use. In addition to being able to charge appropriately according to the system upgrade, there is a period when you can experience the software for free before purchasing the lighting control software, so users can experience multiple lighting control software before purchasing You can also purchase after confirming the effect.

  Furthermore, the database server 4 has storage means for storing a history of dimming data used in the past, and information necessary for newly downloading the dimming data from the dimming data history. A part of the input may be omitted. With this configuration, when only a part of the information necessary for the calculation of the light control data is changed, only the information with the change is input, and the information without the change is stored in the past. For example, when the number of lighting fixtures 1 is increased, information on the lighting fixture 1 and its installation position is input, but information on the space such as the size of the room is omitted. Work can be reduced.

  In addition, the database server 4 creates a control image based on the created dimming data and displays it on the user information input unit 35 of the communication terminal 3, so that the user can actually determine which information is transmitted to the seller side. It is possible to confirm whether such dimming control is produced, and according to the result, review the arrangement of the lighting fixture 1 or input a request, and acquire dimming data again. It is possible to get closer to the light control pattern imaged by the user.

  Furthermore, since the mobile phone terminal device is used as the communication terminal 3, the mobile phone terminal device is often equipped with an image sensor made up of a CCD or CMOS in recent years. Using this image sensor, an image of the space where the lighting fixture 1 is installed is captured and transmitted from the communication unit 34 to the database server 4. On the database server 4 side, the image received by the communication unit 41 is displayed. Analysis may be made to create information on the space in which the luminaire 1 is installed.

  Specifically, the user captures an image in a state where the lighting fixture 1 is lit so that the lighting fixture 1 to be controlled enters the frame. If possible, shoot the entire room. Further, the window is covered with a curtain or the like so that light other than the lighting device 1 does not enter. The captured image is transmitted from the communication unit 34 to the database server 4. In the database server 4, information on the color and shape of the fixture is acquired from the basic data storage unit 45 of the database server 4 from the product number of the lighting fixture 1 input in advance by the user, and is compared with the data to obtain the target from the image. The lighting fixture 1 is specified, and the size and position are extracted.

  On the other hand, room feature points are extracted according to the difference in luminance of image information, and data such as walls and fixtures are acquired. In addition, the reflection characteristics of the walls and fixtures are estimated and acquired as data compared with the luminance information of the lighting fixture 1. From the size of the lighting fixture 1 on the image and the display angle, a reduced scale and positional relationship on the image of the room and the fixture are calculated, and the size of the room in real space, the size of the fixture, the position of the lighting fixture 1, Information on the positional relationship between the luminaire 1 and the fixture, and reflection characteristics of the walls and fixtures is acquired. This data is used as spatial information for calculating dimming data.

  With this configuration, it is possible to simplify the task of inputting complicated space information such as the floor plan and furniture arrangement as shown in FIG.

  In addition, the communication terminal 3 transmits information on the use result of the dimming data to the database server 4 after the elapse of a predetermined period from the reception of the dimming data, and the database server 4 adds the received information to the received information. On the basis of this, it is possible to have a correction means for correcting the already transmitted light control data, and transmit the corrected light control data to the communication terminal 3 again. With this configuration, the seller understands the usage status of the dimming data provided to the user, corrects the dimming data that has already been transmitted, if necessary, and sends it again. Thus, it is possible to complete a lighting control system that is more frequently used and closer to the user's desire. Moreover, it can also be reflected on development of new illumination control software from the said utilization condition.

[Embodiment 2]
The following describes the second embodiment of the present invention with reference to FIG. 10 and FIG.

  FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a system configuration of a lighting control system according to the second embodiment of the present invention. This illumination control system is similar to the illumination control system shown in FIG. 1 described above, and corresponding portions are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted. It should be noted that in this lighting control system, the communication function equipment control device 52 has both functions of the communication terminal 3 such as the above-described mobile phone terminal device and the control device 2 such as an infrared remote controller. . Other configurations are the same as those in FIG.

  FIG. 11 is a block diagram for explaining a specific configuration of each apparatus in the system configuration of FIG. 11 is similar to the configuration of FIG. 2 described above, and corresponding portions are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted. The communication function equipment control device 52 also receives dimming data from the database server 4 via the communication unit 34 and stores it in the dimming data storage unit 32 when the user inputs user information from the user information input unit 35. And if a user selects the light control data controlled by the lighting fixture 1 from the light control data selection part 33, the light control data will be transmitted to the lighting fixture 1 from the light control data transmission part 24. FIG.

  The communication function equipment control device 52 may be a terminal device of the mobile phone, or may be configured by providing a communication unit for connecting to the Internet on the remote control. By providing the remote controller for controlling the lighting fixture 1 with the function of the communication function equipment control device 52, the transmitter mounted on the remote controller can be shared for the transmission of the light control data.

[Embodiment 3]
The following describes the third embodiment of the present invention with reference to FIG. 12 and FIG.

  FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a system configuration of a lighting control system according to the third embodiment of the present invention. This illumination control system is similar to the illumination control system shown in FIG. 1 described above, and corresponding portions are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted. It should be noted that in this lighting control system, the function corresponding to the communication terminal 3 is provided in the home server 60, and the lighting fixture 61 can communicate with the home server 60 via the power line 63. This is realized by so-called network home appliances. Therefore, the control device 62 is a normal remote controller, and communicates with the home server 60 and the lighting fixture 61 in order to select the lighting control software and to manually control the lighting fixture 61 as described above. It may be.

  When a predetermined condition is input from the home server 60, it is transmitted from the provider 70 to the database server 4 via the Internet 5, and dimming data is created. The created dimming data is downloaded from the database server 4 to the home server 60 and further transmitted to the luminaire 61 by power line communication. Further, the lighting device 61 may be directly connected to the Internet 5 and exchange data without going through the home server 60.

  FIG. 13 is a block diagram for explaining a specific configuration of each apparatus in the system configuration of FIG. 13 is similar to the configuration of FIG. 2 described above, and corresponding portions are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted. The luminaire 61 includes a lamp 11, a lighting device 12, a dimming control device 13, a dimming data storage unit 64, a command signal receiving unit 65, a stored content data transmitting unit 66, and a power line carrier communication unit 67. It is configured with. The command signal receiving unit 65 receives a dimming data selection / start / stop command signal for controlling from the control device 62, and the stored content data transmitting unit 66 responds to a request from the control device 62. The light control data stored in the light control data storage unit 64 is transmitted to the control device 62, and the power line carrier communication unit 67 receives the light control data from the home server 70. .

  On the other hand, the home server 70 includes a user information input unit 71, a communication unit 72 for connecting to the database server 4, a dimming data storage unit 73 for storing dimming data received from the database server 4, A dimming data selection unit 74 for selecting dimming data to be transmitted to the lighting fixture 61 and a power line carrier communication unit 75 for transmitting data to the lighting fixture 61 are configured. The user information input unit 71 and the dimming data selection unit 74 may be screen interfaces.

  In addition, the control device 62 requests the contents of the dimming data stored in the dimming data storage unit 64 of the lighting fixture 61, and receives the storage content data requesting unit 81 that receives the transmitted indication, and the storage Storage content data storage unit 82 that stores the content of the dimming data received by the content data request unit 81, dimming data selection unit 83 that selects the dimming data for controlling the lighting fixture 61, and control start / stop A control start command transmission unit 84 that transmits a command to the luminaire 61 is provided. The type of data stored in the dimming data storage unit 64 of the luminaire 61 is stored in the storage content data storage unit 82 by data transmission / reception between the storage content data transmission unit 66 and the storage content data request unit 81, and is controlled. The type of data stored in the lighting fixture 61 can be grasped by the device 62.

  Thus, as the communication terminal 3, a home server equipped with an Internet browser that can access the database server 4 via the Internet 5 and a power line carrier communication unit 75 that communicates with the lighting fixture 61 via the power line 63. By using it, a communication terminal that transmits information on the user side to the database server 4 and sets the obtained dimming data in the luminaire 61 is realized as one function of a home server that is expected to be widely used. The configuration can be omitted.

It is a figure which shows the system configuration | structure of the illumination control system of the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram for demonstrating the specific structure of each apparatus in the system configuration | structure of FIG. It is a front view which shows one structural example of the control apparatus in the system configuration | structure of FIG. It is a figure which shows the procedure of selection operation of illumination control software. It is a flowchart for demonstrating operation | movement of the illumination control system shown in FIG. It is a figure which expands and shows an example of the input screen of user information. It is a figure for demonstrating in detail an example of the display screen in the said communication terminal at the time of download of the illumination control software shown in FIG. It is a flowchart for demonstrating in detail the calculation process of light modulation data. It is a flowchart which shows specifically the update process of the use period of illumination control software. It is a figure which shows the system configuration | structure of the illumination control system of the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram for demonstrating the specific structure of each apparatus in the system configuration | structure of FIG. It is a figure which shows the system configuration | structure of the illumination control system of the 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram for demonstrating the specific structure of each apparatus in the system configuration | structure of FIG.

Explanation of symbols

1, 61 Lighting equipment 2, 62 Control device 3, 32 Communication terminal 4 Database server (data creation device)
5 Internet 6 Mobile communication network 11 Lamp 12 Lighting device 13 Dimming control device 14, 22, 32, 64, 73 Dimming data storage unit 15, 21 Dimming data receiving unit 23, 33, 74, 83 Dimming data selection Units 24 and 31 Dimming data transmission unit 25 Infrared port 26 Liquid crystal screens 27a to 27j Buttons 34, 41 and 72 Communication units 35 and 71 User information input unit 42 User information registration / verification unit 43 User information storage unit 44 Dimming data creation Unit 45 Basic data storage unit 46 Cost calculation unit 47 Cost data storage unit 48 Cost claim unit 52 Communication function equipment control device 60 Home server 63 Power line 70 Provider 65 Command signal reception unit 66 Storage content data transmission unit 67, 75 Power line carrier communication unit 81 stored content data request unit 82 stored content data storage unit 84 control start command transmission unit

Claims (17)

  Arbitrary dimming control can be performed after installation of the luminaire by giving dimming data created by the data creation device installed on the seller side of the luminaire to one or more luminaires each capable of dimming control A lighting control system characterized by realizing. The data creation device includes:
Information regarding at least lighting fixtures, information on the space where the lighting fixtures are installed, and information on persons existing in the space, a reception unit provided from the user side where the lighting fixtures are installed, and
A basic data storage unit storing basic data necessary for creating the dimming data;
In accordance with each information obtained in the reception unit, the basic data is arithmetically processed, and a dimming data creating unit that creates dimming data individually adapted to each user;
The illumination control system according to claim 1, further comprising: an output unit that outputs the dimming data created by the dimming data creation unit. On the user side where the lighting equipment is installed, the communication device has a communication terminal that can access the data creation device via a network.
By an input operation of the user, at least information on the lighting equipment, information on the space where the lighting equipment is installed, an input unit for inputting information on a person existing in the space, and
A transmitter that accesses the data creation device and transmits information input from the input unit;
A receiver that receives the light control data created by the data creation device;
Dimming data for transmitting dimming data received by the receiving unit to a control device that performs dimming control of the lighting fixture, or to the lighting fixture when the control device is built in the lighting fixture. The illumination control system according to claim 1, further comprising a transmission unit.   A dimming data storage unit capable of storing a plurality of types of dimming data created by the data creation device is provided in the lighting fixture, control device, or communication terminal, and the control device stores the plurality of types of dimming data. The illumination control system according to claim 3, further comprising a dimming data selection unit to select.   The communication terminal is a mobile phone terminal device or a portable information terminal equipped with a short-distance wireless communication means for communicating with an Internet browser capable of accessing the data creation device via the Internet and the control device. The illumination control system according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that The communication terminal includes an imaging unit that captures an image of a space in which the lighting fixture is installed, and transmits the image captured by the imaging unit from the transmission unit to the data creation device.
The lighting control system according to claim 3, wherein the data creating device analyzes the received image and creates information on a space in which the lighting fixture is installed.   4. The communication terminal is a home server equipped with an Internet browser accessible to the data creation device via the Internet and a power line communication means for communicating with the control device via a power line. Or the illumination control system of 4.   The lighting control system according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the communication terminal is a remote controller that can also control the lighting fixture.   A dimming data variable unit for varying the dimming pattern in the communication terminal or the control device, created on the data creation device, and after the dimming data is transmitted to the communication terminal or control device, 9. The method according to claim 3, wherein the dimming pattern can be varied using the dimming data variable unit without accessing a data creation device. 10. Lighting control system.   The data creation device further includes control image creation means for creating a control image image based on the created light control data, and the communication terminal receives the control image image at the reception unit, and further receives the control image image. The illumination control system according to claim 3, further comprising display means for displaying.   The communication terminal transmits information related to the use result of the dimming data to the data creation device after the elapse of a predetermined period from the reception of the dimming data, and the data creation device has been transmitted based on the received information. The lighting control system according to claim 3, further comprising a correcting unit that corrects the dimming data, and transmitting the corrected dimming data to the communication terminal again.   The data creation device has storage means for storing a history of dimming data used in the past, and inputs one piece of information necessary for downloading new dimming data from the dimming data history. The lighting control system according to any one of claims 2 to 11, wherein the unit is omitted.   The communication terminal data creation device further includes a billing unit that counts the usage records in which the dimming data has been downloaded, charges according to the usage records, and delays the charging for a predetermined period from the start of use. The illumination control system according to any one of claims 2 to 12, wherein   Lighting control software that is installed on the lighting equipment vendor side and that is installed on the user side and that is composed of dimming data adapted to one or more lighting equipments that can be dimmed and controlled, An illumination control software distribution server characterized by realizing arbitrary dimming control after installation of the appliance. Information regarding at least lighting fixtures, information on the space where the lighting fixtures are installed, and information on persons existing in the space, a reception unit provided from the user side where the lighting fixtures are installed, and
A basic data storage unit storing basic data necessary for creating the dimming data;
In accordance with each information obtained in the reception unit, a dimming data creation unit that calculates the basic data and creates lighting control software composed of dimming data individually adapted to each user;
15. The illumination control software distribution server according to claim 14, further comprising an output unit that outputs the illumination control software created by the dimming data creation unit.   The lighting control software distribution server provided on the user side where one or a plurality of lighting fixtures each capable of dimming control is installed, and installed on the lighting fixture vendor side via the network is accessed to distribute the lighting control software A lighting control communication terminal characterized by providing lighting control software distributed from a server to the lighting fixture to realize arbitrary dimming control after installation of the lighting fixture. By an input operation of the user, at least information on the lighting equipment, information on the space where the lighting equipment is installed, an input unit for inputting information on a person existing in the space, and
A transmitter that accesses the lighting control software distribution server and transmits information input from the input unit;
A receiving unit for receiving the lighting control software created by the lighting control software distribution server;
Dimming data by the lighting control software received by the receiving unit is transmitted to the control device that performs dimming control of the lighting fixture, or to the lighting fixture when the control device is built in the lighting fixture. The illumination control communication terminal according to claim 16, further comprising: a dimming data transmission unit that performs the control.

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