JP2022055609A - Environment control system, environment control method, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

To facilitate an improvement in user satisfaction.SOLUTION: An environment control system 100 comprises: a lighting control unit 11 that controls one or more lighting fixtures 1 allocated to each of a plurality of groups G1; and an acoustic control unit 12 that controls one or more acoustic devices 2 allocated to each of the plurality of groups G1. The plurality of groups G1 includes a first group G11 and a second group G12. The lighting control unit 11 controls the one or more lighting fixtures 1 in the first group G11 so that a color temperature becomes higher than a reference color temperature, and controls the one or more lighting fixtures 1 in the second group G12 so that the color temperature becomes lower than the reference color temperature. The acoustic control unit 12 controls the one or more acoustic devices 2 in the first group G11 to reproduce a specific sound.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

The present invention relates to an environmental control system, an environmental control method, and a program.

Patent Document 1 discloses an acoustic lighting device. This acoustic lighting device includes a lighting unit, an acoustic output unit, a setting unit, and a control unit. The setting unit sets at least one parameter of the illumination of the lighting unit and the acoustic output of the acoustic output unit according to the recognized user existing in the surroundings. The control unit controls at least one of the illumination of the lighting unit and the acoustic output of the acoustic output unit according to the parameters set by the setting unit.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2014-093204

The present invention provides an environmental control system, an environmental control method, and a program that can easily improve user satisfaction.

The environmental control system according to one aspect of the present invention includes a lighting control unit and an acoustic control unit. The lighting control unit controls one or more lighting fixtures assigned to each of the plurality of groups. The acoustic control unit controls one or more acoustic devices assigned to each of the plurality of groups. The plurality of groups include a first group and a second group. The lighting control unit controls the one or more lighting fixtures in the first group so that the color temperature is higher than the reference color temperature, and the color temperature of the one or more lighting fixtures in the second group is the reference. Control so that it is lower than the color temperature. The acoustic control unit controls the one or more acoustic devices in the first group so as to reproduce a specific sound.

The environmental control method according to one aspect of the present invention includes a lighting control step and an acoustic control step. The lighting control step controls one or more luminaires assigned to each of the plurality of groups. The acoustic control step controls one or more acoustic devices assigned to each of the plurality of groups. At least two or more of the plurality of groups include a first group and a second group. In the lighting control step, the one or more luminaires in the first group are controlled so that the color temperature is higher than the reference color temperature, and the one or more luminaires in the second group have the color temperature as the reference. Control so that it is lower than the color temperature. In the acoustic control step, the one or more acoustic devices in the first group are controlled to reproduce a specific sound.

The program according to one aspect of the present invention causes one or more processors to execute the above-mentioned environmental control method.

The environmental control system, the environmental control method, and the program of the present invention have an advantage that the satisfaction of the user is easily improved.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an outline of an office in which the environmental control system according to the embodiment is used. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the environmental control system according to the embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the results of evaluation experiments of lighting control and acoustic control. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the environmental control system according to the embodiment. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the environmental control system according to the first modification of the embodiment. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the environmental control system according to the second modification of the embodiment.

Hereinafter, embodiments will be specifically described with reference to the drawings. It should be noted that all of the embodiments described below show comprehensive or specific examples. The numerical values, shapes, materials, components, arrangement positions and connection forms of the components, steps, the order of steps, and the like shown in the following embodiments are examples, and are not intended to limit the present invention. Further, among the components in the following embodiments, the components not described in the independent claims are described as arbitrary components.

It should be noted that each figure is a schematic view and is not necessarily exactly shown. Further, in each figure, the same reference numerals may be given to substantially the same configurations, and duplicate explanations may be omitted or simplified.

(Embodiment)
[Constitution]
First, the configuration of the environmental control system 100 according to the embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a plan view showing an outline of an office in which the environmental control system 100 according to the embodiment is used. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the environmental control system 100 according to the embodiment.

The environmental control system 100 according to the embodiment is used in an environment such as an office where a work place can be freely selected according to the work to be performed by oneself, and is a system for controlling such an environment. In the embodiment, it is assumed that the environmental control system 100 is used in an ABW (Activity Based Working) type office. Here, "ABW" refers to a work style in which a user (employee, etc.) selects a place or desk, etc. to work according to the work content. In an ABW-type office, the user can select a relatively quiet place for work that requires concentration, and a relaxing place such as a sofa for meetings. Is.

The environmental control system 100 may be used not only in an ABW type office but also in a free address type office, as long as the environment allows the user to freely select a work place according to the work desired to be performed. It may be used in other environments. For example, the environmental control system 100 may be used in an educational facility such as an elementary school, a junior high school, a high school, or a university, may be used in a public facility such as a public hall or a library, or may be used in a store or a commercial facility. May be done.

As shown in FIG. 2, the environmental control system 100 includes a lighting control unit 11, an acoustic control unit 12, and a storage unit 13. The environmental control system 100 may include at least a lighting control unit 11 and an acoustic control unit 12, and may not include a storage unit 13.

Further, in the environment where the environmental control system 100 is used (here, the ABW type office 3), as shown in FIG. 1, a plurality of lighting fixtures 1 and a plurality of acoustic devices 2 are installed. .. The environmental control system 100 may be installed in the office 3 or may be installed in a remote place away from the office 3.

Each luminaire 1 is installed on the ceiling of the office 3. Of course, each luminaire 1 may be installed not only on the ceiling of the office 3 but also on the wall, floor, or desk. In the embodiment, each luminaire 1 is, for example, a base light as ambient lighting that uniformly illuminates a target space, and includes a light source having a solid-state light emitting element such as an LED (Light Emitting Diode). .. Further, the light source of each lighting fixture 1 is configured to be capable of dimming, toning, or both by being controlled by the lighting control unit 11.

Each luminaire 1 is assigned to a plurality of groups G1. In the example shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, each luminaire 1 is assigned to three groups G1. Of course, the number of the group G1 is not limited to three, and may be two or four or more. Here, one or more luminaires 1 assigned to the same group G1 are located close to each other. Then, one or more lighting fixtures 1 assigned to a certain group G1 illuminate the space corresponding to the group G1 in the office 3.

For example, assume that the three groups G1 are the groups "A", "B", and "C". In this case, one or more luminaires 1 assigned to the group "A" illuminate the space "α" corresponding to the group "A" in the office 3, and one or more luminaires 1 assigned to the group "B". Illuminates the space "β" corresponding to the group "B" in the office 3, and one or more luminaires 1 assigned to the group "C" provide the space "γ" corresponding to the group "C" in the office 3. Illuminate.

The assignment of each luminaire 1 to the group G1 is performed in advance by, for example, the administrator of the environmental control system 100. The administrator executes the above allocation by using, for example, an information terminal capable of setting the parameters of the environmental control system 100. The information terminal may include, for example, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a personal computer, or the like.

In the office 3, the adjacent spaces may or may not be partitioned. In an embodiment, it is assumed that the office 3 consists of one large room and there are no other rooms separated by walls or fixtures. In this case, the outlook of the office 3 is improved and the design is improved, which is preferable.

Further, in the embodiment, in two adjacent spaces, the light emitted from the lighting fixture 1 installed in one space does not have to illuminate exactly one space, and a part of the light may be emitted. It is allowed to leak into the other space. That is, in any space, the light emitted from the luminaire 1 corresponding to the space may be the main illumination light, and even if a part of the illumination light from a space different from the space leaks out. , It suffices to have little effect on the lighting of the space. This is because, at this time, the influence of a part of the illumination light from the space different from the space on the visibility of the user who uses the space or the work environment seen by the user is limited.

Each audio device 2 is installed on the ceiling of the office 3. Of course, each audio device 2 may be installed not only on the ceiling of the office 3 but also on the wall, floor, or desk. In the embodiment, each acoustic device 2 is an omnidirectional speaker as an example, and reproduces the content transmitted from the acoustic control unit 12. Each acoustic device 2 may be a speaker having directivity such as a parametric speaker, a speaker using ultrasonic waves, or a speaker having a horn structure in a housing. It is preferable to use a speaker having directivity because it is easy to reduce the ratio of some sounds leaking to other spaces.

Each audio device 2 is assigned to a plurality of groups G1 like each luminaire 1. In the example shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, each acoustic device 2 is assigned to three groups G1. Here, one or more acoustic devices 2 assigned to the same group G1 are located close to each other. Then, one or more audio devices 2 assigned to a certain group G1 output sound to the space corresponding to the group G1 in the office 3.

For example, assume that the three groups G1 are the groups "A", "B", and "C". In this case, one or more sound devices 2 assigned to the group "A" output sound to the space "α" corresponding to the group "A" in the office 3, and one or more sound devices 2 assigned to the group "B". The sound device 2 outputs sound to the space "β" corresponding to the group "B" in the office 3, and one or more sound devices 2 assigned to the group "C" correspond to the group "C" in the office 3. Sound is output to the space "γ".

The assignment of each audio device 2 to the group G1 is executed in advance by the administrator of the environmental control system 100 using the information terminal in the same manner as the assignment of each lighting fixture 1 to the group G1.

In the embodiment, in two adjacent spaces, the sound output from the sound device 2 installed in one space does not have to be output to only one space, and a part of the sound is the other. It is allowed to leak into the space. That is, in any space, the sound output from the sound device 2 corresponding to the space may be the main sound, and even if a part of the sound from a space different from the space leaks, the sound is said to be the main sound. It should not affect the sound of the space.

The lighting control unit 11 can communicate with each lighting fixture 1 and controls dimming, toning, or both of the lighting fixtures 1 by transmitting a lighting control signal to each lighting fixture 1. In other words, the lighting control unit 11 controls one or more lighting fixtures 1 assigned to the plurality of groups G1. In the embodiment, the lighting control unit 11 transmits the same lighting control signal to one or more lighting fixtures 1 assigned to the same group G1. That is, the lighting control unit 11 controls each lighting fixture 1 for each group G1. The communication between the lighting control unit 11 and each lighting fixture 1 may be wired communication, wireless communication, and the communication standard is not particularly limited. Further, the plurality of lighting control signals need not be transmitted exactly at the same time, and the time difference between the transmission of the plurality of lighting control signals is preferably within 60 minutes, more preferably within 30 minutes, and further preferably within 1 minute. .. If the time difference is within 60 minutes, it saves labor as compared with manually moving furniture or furniture to change the environment of the space, which is preferable.

Further, the lighting control signals transmitted from the lighting control unit 11 to one or more lighting fixtures 1 assigned to the same group G1 do not have to be exactly the same, and the influence of the space is limited. It is permissible that there is an error in the control content. For example, the permissible range is ± 500K for the color temperature and ± 20% for the dimming rate.

The acoustic control unit 12 can communicate with each acoustic device 2, and by transmitting an acoustic control signal (including the content to be reproduced) to each acoustic device 2, the acoustic device 2 is made to reproduce the content. Control. In other words, the acoustic control unit 12 controls one or more acoustic devices 2 assigned to the plurality of groups G1. In the embodiment, the acoustic control unit 12 transmits the same acoustic control signal to one or more acoustic devices 2 assigned to the same group G1. That is, the acoustic control unit 12 controls each acoustic device 2 for each group G1. The communication between the acoustic control unit 12 and each acoustic device 2 may be wired communication, wireless communication, and the communication standard is not particularly limited.

Further, the content may be stored in the acoustic control unit 12, may be stored in each acoustic device 2, or may be stored in the storage unit 13. The content is stored in an electronic data medium such as, for example, a WAV format or an mp3 format, but is not limited to this, and may be stored by any known storage method such as a compact disc (CD).

The storage unit 13 is a storage device that stores information (computer program or the like) necessary for each of the lighting control unit 11 and the acoustic control unit 12 to perform control. The storage unit 13 is realized by, for example, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), but may be realized by a semiconductor memory, and a known electronic information storage means can be used without particular limitation. The storage unit 13 stores information regarding the lighting schedule referenced by the lighting control unit 11 and the acoustic schedule referenced by the acoustic control unit 12.

The lighting control unit 11, the acoustic control unit 12, and the storage unit 13 may all be mounted on the same substrate or housed in the same housing. The board or housing may be attached to furniture / furniture such as the ceiling, wall, floor, or desk of the office 3. In this case, it is preferable because the environmental control system 100 is miniaturized.

[Control in the 1st group and the 2nd group]
Here, in the embodiment, the plurality of groups G1 include a first group G11 and a second group G12. The first group G11 may be one or two or more. Similarly, the second group G12 may be one or two or more. The first group G11 and the second group G12 may be determined, for example, by the administrator of the environmental control system 100 using an information terminal, may be determined according to a schedule as described later, or acquired as described later. It may be determined based on the information obtained by the unit 14 (first acquisition unit, second acquisition unit, or third acquisition unit). Then, the lighting control unit 11 controls one or more lighting fixtures 1 in the first group G11 and one or more lighting fixtures 1 in the second group G12 as follows.

That is, the lighting control unit 11 controls one or more lighting fixtures 1 in the first group G11 so that the color temperature is higher than the reference color temperature. Further, the lighting control unit 11 controls one or more lighting fixtures 1 in the second group G12 so that the color temperature is lower than the reference color temperature. In this way, the so-called zoning effect can be expected by making the color temperature of the light irradiated to the space corresponding to the first group G1 different from the color temperature of the light irradiated to the space corresponding to the second group G2. ..

In the example shown in FIG. 1, of the three groups G1, the lower left group G1 of the office 3 is assigned to the first group G11, and the upper right group G1 of the office 3 is assigned to the second group G12. Therefore, in the office 3, the space in the lower left corresponding to the first group G11 is a space in which the color temperature of the illumination light is higher than the reference color temperature, and the space in the upper right corresponding to the second group G12 in the office 3 is. , The color temperature of the illumination light is lower than the standard color temperature. In FIG. 1, the density of dot hatching represents the high and low of the color temperature, the smaller the density of dot hatching, the higher the color temperature, and the higher the density of dot hatching, the lower the color temperature.

In the embodiment, the lighting control unit 11 uses one or more lighting fixtures 1 as a reference color temperature for the group G1 which is not assigned to any of the first group G11 and the second group G12. It is controlled so as to be. Therefore, in the example shown in FIG. 1, the color temperature of the illumination light is the reference color temperature in the space at the lower right of the office 3.

Here, the zoning effect means, for example, a cognitive division feeling of a space, and may include an effect that the user can easily recognize that a plurality of spaces are different spaces in appearance. In addition, the zoning effect may include an effect of facilitating a change in the user's behavior or flow line as intended by the zoning, with the recognition of the user. For example, it is assumed that an arbitrary space is zoned with the intention of creating a space in which the user can easily perform work that requires concentration. In this case, it can be said that the zoning effect is exhibited if the user who sees the space uses the space mainly for the purpose of performing work requiring concentration.

In addition, the zoning effect includes an effect that the user's subjective effect / actual feeling or physiological / psychological / biological action tends to be in accordance with the purpose of zoning when the user actually uses the zoned space. obtain. For example, it is assumed that zoning is performed on an arbitrary space with the intention of making it easy to perform work that requires concentration, and the user uses the space. In this case, if the user feels that he / she can concentrate by using the space, or if the index / data suggesting that the user has concentrated as a psychological / biological action can be obtained, the zoning effect can be obtained. It can be said that it was demonstrated.

By controlling the lighting as described above, it is possible to zone the space without using furniture or furniture. Therefore, it is easy to enhance the design of the space, and it is possible to perform so-called active zoning in which the layout of the office 3 is changed instantly by lighting control such as dimming and toning. That is, when zoning is performed by the above lighting control, the change of the dimming / coloring control parameters in each space is completed in, for example, a few seconds. In this case, as a result, the layout of the office 3 can be changed in a few seconds. Here, if the layout of the office 3 is changed by manually moving furniture or furniture, it takes 60 minutes, several hours, or one day, and in some cases several days. From this point, the above-mentioned zoning by lighting control can exert a very remarkable effect.

With active zoning, it is possible to change the layout of office 3 in a short cycle such as hourly, daily, or monthly compared to the conventional office layout change by changing the arrangement of furniture or furniture. Is.

In the embodiment, the reference color temperature is 3500K. That is, the lighting control unit 11 has one or more lighting fixtures 1 in the first group G11 so that the color temperature of the lighting light is higher than 3500K in the space corresponding to the first group G11, that is, the lighting is a cold color system. To control. The color temperature of the illumination light in the space corresponding to the first group G11 is preferably 5000K to 7000K as an example. On the other hand, the lighting control unit 11 has one or more lighting fixtures 1 in the second group G12 so that the color temperature of the lighting light is lower than 3500K in the space corresponding to the second group G12, that is, the lighting is a warm color system. To control. As an example, the color temperature of the illumination light in the space corresponding to the second group G12 is preferably 2500K to less than 3500K.

By controlling in this way, it is possible to provide a space in which the user can relatively easily concentrate in the space corresponding to the first group G11. Further, in the space corresponding to the second group G12, it is possible to provide a space in which the user can relax relatively easily.

It should be noted that between the color temperature of the illumination light in the space corresponding to the first group G11 and the color temperature of the illumination light in the space corresponding to the second group G12, these spaces are used in order to enhance the zoning effect. It is preferable that there is a significant difference to the extent that the user can visually or potentially perceive the difference. For example, the difference between the color temperature of the illumination light in the space corresponding to the first group G11 and the color temperature of the illumination light in the space corresponding to the second group G12 is preferably 1000K or more, more preferably 1000K or more. It is 2000K or more.

In the embodiment, in order to further enhance the zoning effect, the acoustic control unit 12 controls one or more acoustic devices 2 in the first group G11 so as to reproduce a specific sound. That is, in the space corresponding to the first group G11, the acoustic control unit 12 reproduces one or more sounds in the first group G11 so as to reproduce the specific sound at a volume that can be perceived by the user staying in the space. Control device 2.

The specific sound is preferably a sound that can be expected to have a zoning effect similar to the zoning effect that can be expected from the illumination light. This is because by doing so, it becomes easier to develop an effect that is more than simply adding the zoning effect that can be expected from the illumination light and the zoning effect that can be expected from the sound, and it has an unexpectedly suitable synergistic effect. This is because it becomes easier. This point will be described in detail in [Verification of zoning effect] described later.

For example, the specific sound is a sound that easily enhances the parasympathetic nerve of the user. In the embodiment, as an example, the specific sound is white noise. The "white noise" referred to here is a sound having a sound pressure of a certain level or higher in a wide frequency range. Further, as an example, the specific sound is a natural environment sound. The "natural environment sound" here is a sound other than the sound and music emitted by the everyday environment in the natural world, such as the sound of wind, the sound of waves, the sound of thunder, the sound of animals, or the sound of insects. be. In embodiments, the natural environmental sound is preferably a bird chirping or running water sound. In addition, the specific sound may include sounds other than white noise and natural environment sound. For example, the specific sound may be a noise or a crowded sound in an urban area, a store (cafe, etc.). The zoning effect due to the specific sound will be described in detail in [Verification of zoning effect] described later.

By controlling in this way, in the space corresponding to the first group G11, a space that can be expected to have an effect of further enhancing concentration as compared with the case where only the illumination light from one or more lighting fixtures 1 is provided. Can be provided.

[Control according to schedule]
Here, in the embodiment, the lighting control unit 11 and the acoustic control unit 12 execute each control according to a preset schedule unless there is a real-time instruction by the administrator of the environmental control system 100. That is, the lighting control unit 11 controls one or more lighting fixtures 1 in each of the plurality of groups according to a preset lighting schedule. Further, the acoustic control unit 12 controls one or more acoustic devices 2 of each of the plurality of groups according to a preset acoustic schedule. The lighting schedule and the acoustic schedule are set, for example, by the administrator of the environmental control system 100.

The lighting schedule is, for example, a schedule from the working time to the closing time on any day, and is divided into a plurality of time zones. Then, in each of the plurality of time zones, each of at least two or more groups G1 among the plurality of groups G1 is assigned to either the first group G11 or the second group G12.

Like the lighting schedule, the acoustic schedule is, for example, a schedule from the working time to the closing time on any day, and is divided into a plurality of time zones. Then, in each of the plurality of time zones, each of at least two or more groups G1 among the plurality of groups G1 is assigned to either the first group G11 or the second group G12.

For example, the lighting control unit 11 and the acoustic control unit 12 control so that the occupancy rate of the first group G11 in all the group G1s is larger than the occupancy rate of the second group G12 in the morning according to the lighting schedule and the acoustic schedule. do. Further, the lighting control unit 11 and the acoustic control unit 12 control so that the occupancy rate of the first group G11 in all the group G1s is smaller than the occupancy rate of the second group G12 from the afternoon according to the lighting schedule and the acoustic schedule. do. With this control, it provides a lot of space where users can easily concentrate in the morning, that is, it is easy to improve the work efficiency of the user, and it is easy for the user to relax in the afternoon, that is, the user communicates with other users. It is possible to provide a lot of spaces that are easy to plan.

By controlling according to the schedule in this way, it is possible to provide the user with a space in which the zoning effect can be expected according to the administrator's request without the administrator of the environmental control system 100 instructing in particular in real time.

When controlling according to a schedule, for example, the first group G11 and the second group G12 may not exist at the same time in a predetermined time zone. That is, the first group G11 and the second group G12 do not have to exist at the same time in all time zones. As an example, all groups G1 may be assigned to the second group G12 in a time zone close to the closing time. In this case, the user is more likely to be exposed to a warm-colored lighting environment, which makes it easier to directly or potentially be aware that the closing time is near, and as a result, it becomes easier to encourage the user to return home, and the reverberation time is reduced. The effect can be expected.

[Verification of zoning effect]
Here, the inventors of the present application conducted the following experiments in order to verify the zoning effect due to the combination of the color temperature and the specific sound. That is, a plurality of subjects (here, 10 people) are gathered in the space to be tested (here, one room in the office), and each subject is given a predetermined task (here, a personal computer) while changing the conditions of the space to be tested. I had them do the typing work for 1 minute at. Then, a questionnaire was given to each subject about the impression of the space to be tested for each condition of the space to be tested.

Multiple desks are installed in the space to be tested. Then, each subject performed typing work using a personal computer (here, a laptop-type personal computer) at one of the desks. Further, on the ceiling of the space to be tested, a plurality of base lights are installed to uniformly illuminate the entire space to be tested. In addition, each desk is equipped with a spotlight to locally illuminate the corresponding desk.

The spatial condition of the experimental object is a combination of any one of the four lighting conditions for lighting and any one of the four sound conditions for sound. That is, the experiment was conducted under a total of 16 conditions.

The lighting conditions are the following four conditions (A1) to (A4). (A1) is to control each base light so that the color temperature of the illumination light is 3000 K and the illuminance of the space to be tested is 800 lpx. (A2) is to control each base light so that the color temperature of the illumination light is 3500 K and the illuminance of the space to be tested is 800 lpx. (A3) is to control each base light so that the color temperature of the illumination light is 5000 K and the illuminance of the space to be tested is 800 lpx. (A4) is to control each spotlight so that the color temperature of the illumination light is 3500 K and the illuminance at the center of each desk is 1200 lpx.

The sound conditions are the following four conditions (B1) to (B4). (B1) is to make no sound flow through the space to be tested, that is, to make it silent. (B2) is to play natural environment sounds such as the sound of the murmuring of a stream in the space to be tested. (B3) is to play jazz in the space to be tested. (B4) is to play music for meditation in the space to be tested. Meditation music is music played when performing meditation or yoga, and is so-called healing music.

In the questionnaire for each subject, answers were obtained regarding the degree of preference for the space of the experiment target, in other words, the degree of dependence on the space of the experiment target. Specifically, the degree of preference for the space to be experimented is (a) very much, (b) quite like, (c) somewhat like, (d) neither, (e) slightly dislike, (f). Answers were obtained from each subject as to which of the seven grades, "quite disliked" and (g) very disliked.

Then, the inventors of the present application quantitatively evaluated the conditions of the space to be tested based on the results of the questionnaire for each subject. Specifically, the 7-grade evaluation obtained in the questionnaire is treated as an evenly spaced scale, and the evaluations of (g), (f), ..., (A) are "7", "6", ..., "1", respectively. Was assigned a scalar value. Then, the evaluation function for evaluating the space of the experiment target is defined as the following equation (1), and the score is obtained for each condition of the space of the experiment target by the following equation (2) using the evaluation function. V (m) was calculated.

In the following equations (1) and (2), "f (n, m)" represents an evaluation function, and "v" represents the above scalar value. Further, in the following equations (1) and (2), "n" is the number assigned to the subject, "N" is the number of subjects, and "m" is the combination of the lighting condition and the sound condition. Represents the assigned number. Here, since there are 10 subjects, "N" is 10, and "n" can be any natural number from 1 to 10. Further, here, since there are a total of 16 combinations of lighting conditions and sound conditions, "m" can take any natural number from 1 to 16.

In the following formula (2), the score V (m) is corrected to be "0" when there is no particular impression of good or bad for the space to be tested, that is, when the evaluation is the above (d). In order to do so, "4" is subtracted. Therefore, the maximum value of the score V (m) is "3", and the minimum value of the score V (m) is "-3". For example, if the score V (m) is the maximum value, it means that all the subjects have the impression that they "very like" the space to be tested. On the other hand, if the score V (m) is the minimum value, it means that all the subjects have the impression that they "very dislike" the space to be tested.

The results of the above experiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a part of the results of evaluation experiments of lighting control and acoustic control. In FIG. 3, the vertical axis represents the score V (m) with respect to the space to be tested. Further, in FIG. 3, the horizontal axis represents the condition of the space to be tested. Specifically, on the horizontal axis of FIG. 3, "5000K" represents the lighting condition (A3), and "3500K" represents the lighting condition (A2). Further, on the horizontal axis of FIG. 3, "silence" represents the sound condition (B1), and "natural environment sound" represents the sound condition (B2).

In FIG. 3, the score V (m) in the combination of "silence" and "3500K" is "+0.6", whereas the score V (m) in the combination of "silence" and "5000K" is. It is "+0.6". That is, even if the color temperature of the illumination light in the space to be tested was increased, the increase in the score V (m) was not confirmed. Further, the score V (m) in the combination of "natural environment sound" and "3500K" is "+0.4". That is, here, even if the natural environment sound was reproduced in the space of the experiment target, the increase of the score V (m) was not confirmed.

On the other hand, in FIG. 3, the score V (m) in the combination of "silence" and "3500K" is "+0.6", whereas the score V in the combination of "natural environment sound" and "5000K" is V. (M) is "+1.4". In view of the above experimental results, it is assumed that no increase in score V (m) is confirmed even in the latter combination. However, on the contrary, compared with the case where only the color temperature is changed by raising the color temperature of the illumination light in the space of the experiment target and reproducing the natural environment sound in the space of the experiment target. A significant increase in score V (m) was confirmed.

Based on the results of the above experiments, the inventors of the present application change only the color temperature of the illumination light by making the color temperature of the illumination light higher than the reference color temperature and reproducing a specific sound such as a natural environment sound. Compared to the case, the zoning effect that can be expected from the illumination light and the zoning effect that can be expected from the sound are more likely to be produced by simply adding them together, and it is easier to produce an unexpectedly suitable synergistic effect. I got the finding that I can expect it.

[motion]
Hereinafter, an example of the operation of the environmental control system 100 according to the embodiment will be described. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the environmental control system 100 according to the embodiment. In the following, it is assumed that both the lighting schedule and the acoustic schedule are preset. Further, in the following, until the control timing according to the lighting schedule and the acoustic schedule arrives, the lighting control unit 11 determines each lighting fixture of all groups G1 so that the color temperature of the lighting light becomes the reference color temperature. It is assumed that 1 is controlled and the acoustic control unit 12 does not execute any particular control. That is, it is assumed that the first group G11 and the second group G12 do not exist until the control timing arrives.

First, when the control timing arrives (S1: Yes), the lighting control unit 11 controls each lighting fixture 1 of the first group G11 and each lighting fixture 1 of the second group G12 according to the lighting schedule (S2). As a result, in the space corresponding to the first group G11, the color temperature of the illumination light becomes higher than the reference color temperature, and in the space corresponding to the second group G12, the color temperature of the illumination light becomes lower than the reference color temperature. .. The process S2 and the process S5 described later correspond to the lighting control step ST1 of the environmental control method. Further, the acoustic control unit 12 controls each acoustic device 2 of the first group G11 according to the acoustic schedule (S3). As a result, the specific sound is reproduced in the space corresponding to the first group G11. The process S3 and the process S6 described later correspond to the acoustic control step ST2 of the environmental control method.

In the middle of the lighting schedule and the acoustic schedule, for example, if there is an instruction from the administrator of the environmental control system 100 (S4: Yes), the lighting control unit 11 interrupts the lighting schedule and follows each of the first group G11 according to the instruction. The luminaire 1 and each luminaire 1 of the second group G12 are controlled (S5). Further, the acoustic control unit 12 controls each acoustic device 2 of the first group G11 according to the instruction in the form of interrupting the acoustic schedule (S6).

The above series of processes is repeated until the lighting schedule and the acoustic schedule are completed (S7: Yes).

[advantage]
Hereinafter, the advantages of the environmental control system 100 according to the embodiment will be described. In the environmental control system 100 according to the embodiment, two or more spaces controlled so as to be different environments, that is, a space corresponding to the first group G11 and a space corresponding to the second group G12, are simultaneously provided to the user. It is possible to do. In other words, the environmental control system 100 according to the embodiment can simultaneously provide the user with two or more spaces controlled so as to exert different zoning effects. That is, in the space corresponding to the first group G11, the environment is easy for the user to concentrate, and in the space corresponding to the second group G12, the user is easy to relax. Further, the space corresponding to the first group G11 is an environment in which the user can concentrate more easily than the case where the specific sound is reproduced by reproducing the specific sound, and corresponds to the second group G12. It is easier for the user to recognize the difference from the space.

Therefore, the user moves to the space corresponding to the second group G12, for example, when working in a relaxed state or when he / she wants to communicate with another user. Further, the user moves to the space corresponding to the first group G11, for example, when he / she wants to concentrate on the work or when he / she wants to avoid communication with other users. As described above, in the environmental control system 100 according to the embodiment, the user can select and use the environment desired by himself / herself from two or more spaces controlled so as to be different environments from each other. It has the advantage of making it easier to stay in the desired environment and improving user satisfaction.

(Other embodiments)
Although the embodiments have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments. Hereinafter, modifications of the embodiment will be listed. The modifications described below may be combined as appropriate.

[Modification 1 of the embodiment]
As shown in FIG. 5, the environmental control system 100 according to the first modification of the embodiment is different from the environmental control system 100 according to the embodiment in that the acquisition unit 14 is provided. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the environmental control system 100 according to the first modification of the embodiment.

The acquisition unit 14 acquires information about the user. Hereinafter, an example of information about the user acquired by the acquisition unit 14 and an example of control based on the acquired information will be listed. The environmental control system 100 may execute at least one of the first to third examples shown below, and may execute a plurality of examples.

In the first example, the acquisition unit 14 acquires the user's position information. That is, in the first example, the acquisition unit 14 can be said to be the “first acquisition unit”. Here, the position information may be any information that represents the position of the user in the space (here, the office 3) controlled by the environmental control system 100, and the information that represents the position of the user in a place other than the space is sufficient. It does not have to be included.

The acquisition unit 14 can acquire the user's position information by acquiring the detection result transmitted from a motion sensor such as an infrared sensor installed in the office 3. That is, when a detection result that a person exists within the detection range is acquired from a certain motion sensor, the acquisition unit 14 of the user in the office 3 based on the position where the motion sensor is installed and the detection range. It is possible to acquire location information.

Further, the acquisition unit 14 acquires the detection result from the indoor position information detection system using BLE (Bluetooth (registered trademark) Low Energy) or the like adopted in the office 3, for example, to obtain the position of the user in the office 3. It is possible to get information.

Further, the acquisition unit 14 acquires an image of the office 3 taken from a camera installed in the office 3, for example, and executes an appropriate image analysis process on the image to obtain the position information of the user in the office 3. It is possible to get it.

In addition, the acquisition unit 14 can acquire the user's position information in the office 3 by acquiring the reading result of the wireless IC tag possessed by the user from, for example, a tag reader installed in the office 3.

Then, in the first example, the first group G11 and the second group G12 are determined based on the position information acquired by the acquisition unit 14. For example, it is assumed that at any point in time, the space corresponding to the first group G11 is more congested than the space corresponding to the second group G12. In this case, the lighting control unit 11 and the acoustic control unit 12 determine the first group G11 and the second group G12 so as to increase the number of the first group G11. As a result, the floor area of the space corresponding to the first group G11 is increased, so that it is possible to eliminate the congestion.

As described above, in the first example, since the first group G11 and the second group G12 are determined based on the user's position information, each of the first group G11 and the second group G12 is determined according to the user's position. It is possible to adjust the balance of occupancy. This aspect is preferable because it is easy for the owner of the office 3 to provide an office environment with high user satisfaction in a relatively small area.

In the second example, the acquisition unit 14 acquires the user's schedule information. That is, in the second example, the acquisition unit 14 can be said to be the “second acquisition unit”. Here, the schedule information may be any information indicating that the user plans to stay in the space controlled by the environmental control system 100 (here, the office 3), and the user plans to stay in a place other than the space. It is not necessary to include the information representing. The schedule information includes, for example, a user's work start time and work end time.

The schedule information is transmitted to and stored in a database that manages the schedule information, for example, by being input by a user using an information terminal. The acquisition unit 14 can acquire schedule information from this database.

Then, in the second example, the first group G11 and the second group G12 are determined based on the schedule information acquired by the acquisition unit 14. For example, assume that the number of users whose work start time is 9 am is less than the number of users whose work start time is 10 am. In this case, the lighting control unit 11 and the acoustic control unit 12 reduce the number of the first group G11 from 9:00 am to 10:00 am and increase the number of the first group G11 after 10:00 am. The first group G11 and the second group G12 are determined. As a result, it is possible to appropriately provide the user with a space corresponding to the first group G11, which makes it easy to perform work requiring concentration in the morning when the work is easy to progress.

As described above, in the second example, since the first group G11 and the second group G12 are determined based on the user's schedule information, each of the first group G11 and the second group G12 is determined according to the user's schedule. It is possible to adjust the balance of occupancy. This aspect is preferable because it is easy for the owner of the office 3 to provide an office environment with high user satisfaction in a relatively small area.

In the third example, the acquisition unit 14 acquires the user's preference information. That is, in the third example, the acquisition unit 14 can be said to be the “third acquisition unit”. The preference information includes, for example, the degree of preference of the user for the space. Specifically, the preference information includes information such as whether the user prefers the space corresponding to the first group G11, the space corresponding to the second group G12, or neither.

The preference information is transmitted to and accumulated in a database that manages the preference information, for example, when the user inputs the preference information using an information terminal. The acquisition unit 14 can acquire preference information from this database.

Further, the acquisition unit 14 can acquire preference information by analyzing the tendency of the user to stay in which space based on the user's position information by appropriate processing. In this case, it is not necessary for the user to input the preference information.

Then, in the third example, the first group G11 and the second group G12 are determined based on the preference information acquired by the acquisition unit 14. For example, it is assumed that the number of users who prefer the space corresponding to the first group G11 is larger than the number of users who prefer the space corresponding to the second group G12. In this case, the lighting control unit 11 and the acoustic control unit 12 have the first group G11 and the acoustic control unit 12 so that the occupancy rate of the space corresponding to the first group G11 is larger than the occupancy rate of the space corresponding to the first group G12. The second group G12 is determined. This makes it easier to avoid crowding the space preferred by a large number of users.

As described above, in the third example, since the first group G11 and the second group G12 are determined based on the user's preference information, each of the first group G11 and the second group G12 is determined according to the user's preference. It is possible to adjust the balance of occupancy. This aspect is preferable because it is easy for the owner of the office 3 to provide an office environment with high user satisfaction in a relatively small area.

[Modification 2 of the embodiment]
As shown in FIG. 6, the environmental control system 100 according to the second modification of the embodiment is different from the environmental control system 100 according to the embodiment in that it includes a notification unit 15. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the environmental control system 100 according to the second modification of the embodiment.

The notification unit 15 notifies the user of at least the status of the first group G11 and the second group G12. For example, the notification unit 15 is a plan view of the office 3 and generates a map showing whether each of all the groups G1 belongs to the first group G11, the second group G12, or neither. .. Then, the notification unit 15 transmits the generated map to the information terminal used by the user. As a result, the user can check the map received by the information terminal to create a space corresponding to the first group G11 (a space where it is easy to relax) and a space corresponding to the second group G12 (a space where it is easy to concentrate). It is possible to know where the office 3 is located.

Further, the notification unit 15 may transmit the generated map to the projector installed in the office 3. In this case, the projector projects the received map onto the screen. As a result, the user can grasp where in the office 3 the space corresponding to the first group G11 and the space corresponding to the second group G12 are located by checking the map projected on the screen. Is. The projector may project a map on the wall, ceiling, or the like of the office 3 instead of the screen.

In addition, instead of transmitting the map, the notification unit 15 notifies the user of a message indicating the status of the first group G11 and the second group G12, or an audio content indicating the status of the first group G11 and the second group G12. You may. Of course, the notification unit 15 may notify the user by appropriately combining the above maps, messages, and voice contents.

As described above, since the status of the first group G11 and the second group G12 is notified to the user, the user can grasp the status of the first group G11 and the second group G12.

[Other variants]
In the embodiment, one or more sound devices 2 assigned to the second group G12 do not reproduce the sound, but may reproduce the sound. In this case, it is preferable that the type of sound to be reproduced is, for example, a sound different from the specific sound reproduced by one or more acoustic devices 2 assigned to the first group G11. That is, in this case, it is preferable that one or more sound devices 2 assigned to the second group G12 reproduce a sound in which the difference between the first group G11 and the second group G12 is more perceived by the user. ..

In the embodiment, a base light as ambient lighting is adopted for each luminaire 1, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a spotlight as a task light may be adopted as a part of the plurality of lighting fixtures 1. That is, each luminaire 1 may irradiate at least the space corresponding to the first group G11 and the space corresponding to the second group G12 to such an extent that the user can recognize that they are different spaces from each other. Just do it.

In the embodiment, one or more acoustic devices 2 are assigned to each of all the groups G1, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, at least one or more acoustic devices 2 may be assigned to the group G1 that can be the first group G11, and the acoustic device 2 may not be assigned to the group G1 that cannot be the first group G11.

In the embodiment, the luminaire 1 and the audio device 2 are configured separately, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, by incorporating the sound device 2 in the lighting device 1, the lighting device 1 and the sound device 2 may be integrally configured.

In the embodiment, the office 3 is composed of one large room having no other room, but is not limited to this. For example, the office 3 may be composed of a large room having one or more rooms, or may be configured across a plurality of layers.

In the embodiment, the environmental control system 100 targets one office 3, but is not limited to this. For example, the environmental control system 100 may target a plurality of offices 3 and control each lighting fixture 1 and each sound device 2 for each office 3.

In the embodiment, the luminaire 1 and the acoustic device 2 are not included in the components of the environmental control system 100, but at least one of the luminaire 1 and the acoustic device 2 is included in the components of the environmental control system 100. May be good.

Further, for example, in the above embodiment, the environmental control system 100 is realized by a plurality of devices, but may be realized as a single device. For example, the environmental control system 100 may be realized as a single device corresponding to a server device. When the environmental control system 100 is realized by a plurality of devices, the components included in the environmental control system 100 may be distributed to the plurality of devices in any way. For example, the component included in the server device in the above embodiment may be provided in the information terminal installed in the closed space. That is, the present invention may be realized by cloud computing or edge computing.

For example, the communication method between the devices in the above embodiment is not particularly limited. Further, in the communication between the devices, a relay device (not shown) may intervene.

Further, in the above embodiment, each component may be realized by executing a software program suitable for each component. Each component may be realized by a program execution unit such as a CPU or a processor reading and executing a software program recorded on a recording medium such as a hard disk or a semiconductor memory.

In addition, each component may be realized by hardware. For example, each component may be a circuit (or an integrated circuit). These circuits may form one circuit as a whole, or may be separate circuits from each other. Further, each of these circuits may be a general-purpose circuit or a dedicated circuit.

In addition, general or specific embodiments of the present invention may be realized in a recording medium such as a system, an apparatus, a method, an integrated circuit, a computer program, or a computer-readable CD-ROM. Further, it may be realized by any combination of a system, an apparatus, a method, an integrated circuit, a computer program and a recording medium.

For example, the present invention may be realized as an environment control method executed by a computer such as an environment control system 100, or may be realized as a program for causing a computer to execute such an environment control method. Such a program may be realized as a computer-readable non-temporary recording medium on which such a program is recorded.

In addition, it is realized by a form obtained by applying various modifications to each embodiment that a person skilled in the art can think of, or by arbitrarily combining the components and functions in each embodiment within the range not deviating from the gist of the present invention. Also included in the present invention.

(summary)
As described above, the environmental control system 100 includes a lighting control unit 11 that controls one or more lighting fixtures 1 assigned to each of the plurality of groups G1, and one or more assigned to each of the plurality of groups G1. It includes an acoustic control unit 12 that controls the acoustic device 2. The plurality of groups G1 include a first group G11 and a second group G12. The lighting control unit 11 controls one or more luminaires 1 in the first group G11 so that the color temperature is higher than the reference color temperature, and the color temperature of one or more luminaires 1 in the second group G12 is the reference color. Control so that it is lower than the temperature. The acoustic control unit 12 controls one or more acoustic devices 2 in the first group G11 so as to reproduce a specific sound.

According to such an environmental control system 100, it is possible to provide the user with two or more spaces controlled so as to have different environments from each other, so that the user can easily stay in the environment desired by the user and the user is satisfied. There is an advantage that the degree is easy to improve.

Further, for example, in the environmental control system 100, the reference color temperature may be 3500K.

According to such an environmental control system 100, in the space corresponding to the first group G11, it is possible to provide a space in which the user can relatively easily concentrate. Further, in the space corresponding to the second group G12, it is possible to provide a space in which the user can relax relatively easily.

Further, for example, in the environmental control system 100, the specific sound may be white noise.

According to such an environmental control system 100, in the space corresponding to the first group G11, there is an effect of further enhancing the concentration as compared with the case where only the illumination light from one or more lighting fixtures 1 is provided. It is possible to provide a space that can be expected.

Further, for example, in the environmental control system 100, the specific sound may be a natural environmental sound.

According to such an environmental control system 100, in the space corresponding to the first group G11, there is an effect of further enhancing the concentration as compared with the case where only the illumination light from one or more lighting fixtures 1 is provided. It is possible to provide a space that can be expected.

Further, for example, in the environmental control system 100, the specific sound may be a bird chirping or a running water sound.

According to such an environmental control system 100, in the space corresponding to the first group G11, there is an effect of further enhancing the concentration as compared with the case where only the illumination light from one or more lighting fixtures 1 is provided. It is possible to provide a space that can be expected.

Further, for example, in the environmental control system 100, the lighting control unit 11 may control one or more lighting fixtures 1 in each of the plurality of groups G1 according to a preset lighting schedule. Further, the acoustic control unit 12 may control one or more acoustic devices 2 in each of the plurality of groups G1 according to a preset acoustic schedule.

According to such an environmental control system 100, it is possible to provide the user with a space in which a zoning effect can be expected in line with the administrator's request without the administrator of the environmental control system 100 instructing in particular in real time.

Further, for example, the environmental control system 100 may further include an acquisition unit (first acquisition unit) 14 for acquiring the user's position information. Then, the first group G11 and the second group G12 may be determined based on the position information acquired by the acquisition unit (first acquisition unit) 14.

According to such an environmental control system 100, it is possible to adjust the balance of the occupancy rates of the first group G11 and the second group G12 according to the position of the user.

Further, for example, the environmental control system 100 may further include an acquisition unit (second acquisition unit) 14 for acquiring user's schedule information. Then, the first group G11 and the second group G12 may be determined based on the schedule information acquired by the acquisition unit (second acquisition unit) 14.

According to such an environmental control system 100, it is possible to adjust the balance of the occupancy rates of the first group G11 and the second group G12 according to the schedule of the user.

Further, for example, the environmental control system 100 may further include an acquisition unit (third acquisition unit) 14 for acquiring user preference information. Then, the first group G11 and the second group G12 may be determined based on the preference information acquired by the acquisition unit (third acquisition unit) 14.

According to such an environmental control system 100, it is possible to adjust the balance of the occupancy rates of the first group G11 and the second group G12 according to the preference of the user.

Further, for example, the environmental control system 100 may further include a notification unit 15 for notifying the user of the status of at least the first group G11 and the second group G12.

According to such an environmental control system 100, the user can grasp the situation of the first group G11 and the second group G12.

Further, the environmental control method controls the lighting control step ST1 for controlling one or more lighting fixtures 1 assigned to each of the plurality of groups G1 and the one or more acoustic devices 2 assigned to each of the plurality of groups G1. The acoustic control step ST2 and the like are included. The plurality of groups G1 include a first group G11 and a second group G12. In the lighting control step ST1, one or more lighting fixtures 1 in the first group G11 are controlled so that the color temperature is higher than the reference color temperature, and the color temperature of one or more lighting fixtures 1 in the second group G12 is the reference color. Control so that it is lower than the temperature. In the acoustic control step ST2, one or more acoustic devices 2 in the first group G11 are controlled so as to reproduce a specific sound.

According to such an environment control method, it is possible to provide the user with two or more spaces controlled so as to be in conflicting environments, so that the user can easily stay in the environment desired by the user and the user's satisfaction level. Has the advantage of being easy to improve.

Further, for example, the program causes one or more processors to execute the above-mentioned environment control method.

Such a program can provide the user with two or more spaces controlled to have different environments from each other, so that the user can easily stay in the environment desired by the user and the user's satisfaction is improved. It has the advantage of being easy to use.

100 Environmental control system 11 Lighting control unit 12 Acoustic control unit 14 Acquisition unit 15 Notification unit 1 Lighting equipment 2 Acoustic equipment G1 group G11 1st group G12 2nd group ST1 Lighting control step ST2 Acoustic control step

Claims (12)

A lighting control unit that controls one or more luminaires assigned to each of a plurality of groups,
A sound control unit for controlling one or more sound devices assigned to each of the plurality of groups is provided.
The plurality of groups include a first group and a second group.
The lighting control unit controls the one or more lighting fixtures in the first group so that the color temperature is higher than the reference color temperature, and the color temperature of the one or more lighting fixtures in the second group is the reference. Control to be lower than the color temperature,
The acoustic control unit controls the one or more acoustic devices in the first group so as to reproduce a specific sound.
Environmental control system. The reference color temperature is 3500K.
The environmental control system according to claim 1. The specific sound is white noise.
The environmental control system according to claim 1 or 2. The specific sound is a natural environment sound,
The environmental control system according to claim 1 or 2. The natural environmental sound is the sound of birds chirping or running water.
The environmental control system according to claim 4. The lighting control unit controls the one or more lighting fixtures in each of the plurality of groups according to a preset lighting schedule.
The acoustic control unit controls the one or more acoustic devices of each of the plurality of groups according to a preset acoustic schedule.
The environmental control system according to any one of claims 1 to 5. It also has a first acquisition unit that acquires the user's location information.
The first group and the second group are determined based on the position information acquired by the first acquisition unit.
The environmental control system according to any one of claims 1 to 6. It also has a second acquisition unit to acquire the user's schedule information.
The first group and the second group are determined based on the schedule information acquired by the second acquisition unit.
The environmental control system according to any one of claims 1 to 7. It also has a third acquisition unit that acquires user preference information.
The first group and the second group are determined based on the preference information acquired by the third acquisition unit.
The environmental control system according to any one of claims 1 to 8. Further including a notification unit for notifying the user of the status of at least the first group and the second group.
The environmental control system according to any one of claims 1 to 9. A luminaire control step that controls one or more luminaires assigned to each of multiple groups,
It has an acoustic control step that controls one or more acoustic devices assigned to each of the plurality of groups.
At least two or more of the plurality of groups include a first group and a second group.
In the lighting control step, the one or more luminaires in the first group are controlled so that the color temperature is higher than the reference color temperature, and the one or more luminaires in the second group have the color temperature as the reference. Control to be lower than the color temperature,
In the acoustic control step, the one or more acoustic devices in the first group are controlled to reproduce a specific sound.
Environmental control method. For one or more processors
The environmental control method according to claim 11 is executed.
program.

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