JP4237997B2 - LIGHTING DEVICE, LIGHTING CONTROL DEVICE, AND LIGHTING CONTROL METHOD - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an illumination device allowing an observer to easily adjust breathing rhythm to feel relaxed at the time of eye closing in matching relation to a change in the brightness of illumination light, an illumination control unit and an illumination control method. <P>SOLUTION: The lighting period of a light source 10 is divided into an introducing period and a relax period and a control part 20 controls the light source 10 so that the brightness ratio C1 (=LMAX<SB>1</SB>/LMIN<SB>1</SB>) of the maximum brightness LMAX<SB>1</SB>to the minimum brightness LMIN<SB>1</SB>at one cycle of a brightness change becomes substantially constant within the range of 10&lt;C1&le;100 at the introducing period, and the brightness ratio C2 (=LMAX<SB>2</SB>/LMIN<SB>2</SB>) of the maximum brightness LMAX<SB>2</SB>to the minimum brightness LMIN<SB>2</SB>at one cycle of the brightness change becomes substantially constant within the range of 6&le;C2&le;100 at the succeeding relax period. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2003,JPO

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to an illumination device, an illumination control device, and an illumination control method that periodically change the luminance of illumination light.
[0002]
[Prior art]
With the aim of realizing a comfortable lighting environment, the inventors of the present application have studied a lighting device and a lighting control method that change the luminance of the lighting light at a frequency close to a breathing rhythm. In the study, if the amount of change in the brightness of the illumination light per cycle, that is, the ratio of the maximum brightness to the minimum brightness per cycle, is different, humans will receive from the illumination light when they directly observe the change in the illumination I found a different impression.
[0003]
Therefore, in order to realize the optimal change of illumination light according to the human action situation (for example, adjusting the rhythm of breathing or relaxing the observer), the brightness of the illumination light according to the human action situation We examined how to change the luminance ratio of the maximum luminance to the minimum luminance per cycle. As a result, when the observer observes the illumination light directly, it makes it easier for the observer to adjust the breathing rhythm according to the change in the brightness of the illumination light, and also makes it easier for the observer to relax An apparatus and a lighting control method have been developed (see Patent Document 1 and Japanese Patent Application No. 2000-357591).
[0004]
[Patent Document 1]
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 11-96809
[0005]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
In general, when a human is relaxed, his eyes are often closed. Therefore, there have been many requests to adjust the breathing rhythm with the eyes closed or to relax with the eyes closed.
[0006]
In the closed eye state, the amount of illumination light incident on the pupil due to the presence of the eyelid is less than the amount of illumination light incident on the pupil in the open eye state. Since the light transmittance of the human eyelid is several percent, the amount of illumination light incident on the pupil in the closed eye state is several percent of the amount of illumination light incident on the pupil in the open eye state.
[0007]
Therefore, when the illumination light is directly observed in the open eye state, the illumination light whose brightness change is controlled so that the observer can easily adjust the rhythm of breathing cannot be observed in the closed eye state, or the brightness change cannot be observed. Even if you can observe the change of the breath, you may not be able to relax because you can not adjust the rhythm of breathing.
[0008]
The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and its purpose is to allow the observer to adjust the breathing rhythm in accordance with the change in luminance of the illumination light and to relax in the closed eye state. An object of the present invention is to provide an illumination device, an illumination control device, and an illumination control method that facilitate the above.
[0009]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
An illuminating device according to the present invention is an illuminating device including a light source and a control unit that controls the light source so that the luminance of a light emitting surface of the light source periodically changes. A first dimming signal generation unit that generates a dimming signal; and a dimming lighting device that lights the light source in accordance with the first dimming signal output from the first dimming signal generation unit; The control unit sequentially divides the lighting period of the light source into at least an introduction period and a relaxation period, and the first dimming signal generation unit is configured to perform a luminance change of the light emitting surface of the light source in one cycle during the introduction period. Minimum brightness L _MIN1 Maximum luminance L for _MAX1 Luminance ratio C1 (= L _MAX1 / L _MIN1 ) Is substantially constant in the range of 10 <C1 ≦ 100, and the first dimming signal is generated, and in the relaxation period, the minimum luminance in one cycle of the luminance change of the light emitting surface of the light source L _MIN2 Maximum luminance L for _MAX2 Luminance ratio C2 (= L _MAX2 / L _MIN2 ) Is substantially constant in the range of 6 <C2 ≦ 100, the first dimming signal is generated.
[0010]
The control unit sequentially divides a lighting period of the light source into at least the introduction period, the transition period, and the relaxation period, and the first dimming signal generation unit is configured to change the luminance of the light emitting surface of the light source during the transition period. Minimum luminance L in one cycle _MIN3 Maximum luminance L for _MAX3 Luminance ratio C3 (= L _MAX3 / L _MIN3 ) Is preferably generated such that the luminance ratio C1 gradually decreases from the luminance ratio C1 to the luminance ratio C2.
[0011]
The first dimming signal generation unit is configured to output the maximum luminance L during the introduction period. _MAX1 Is the maximum luminance L during the relaxation period. _MAX2 It is preferable to generate the first dimming signal so as to be larger.
[0012]
The first dimming signal generation unit is configured to output the minimum luminance L in the introduction period. _MIN1 Is the minimum luminance L in the relaxation period _MIN2 It is preferable to generate the first dimming signal so as to be larger.
[0013]
The control unit includes a second dimming signal generation unit that generates a second dimming signal, the first dimming signal output from the first dimming signal generation unit, and the second dimming signal. A switching unit that switches between the second dimming signal output from the optical signal generation unit and outputs the second dimming signal to the dimming lighting device is further provided, and is output from the first dimming signal generation unit at a certain time t. The minimum luminance L in one cycle of the luminance change of the light emitting surface of the light source controlled by the first dimming signal _MINT1 Maximum luminance L for _MAX1 Luminance ratio CT1 (= L _MAX1 / L _MINT1 ), And the minimum luminance L in one cycle of the luminance change of the light emitting surface of the light source controlled by the second dimming signal output from the second dimming signal generator _MINT2 Maximum luminance L for _MAX2 Luminance ratio CT2 (= L _MAX2 / L _MINT2 ) Preferably satisfies the relationship CT1> CT2.
[0014]
It is preferable that the luminance ratio CT1 is 1.5 times or more the luminance ratio CT2.
[0015]
Maximum brightness L _MAX1 Is the maximum luminance L _MAX2 Is preferably greater than or equal to.
[0016]
Minimum brightness L _MINT1 Is the minimum luminance L _MINT2 Is preferably less than or equal to.
[0017]
Further comprising a sensor that senses an open / closed state of a user's eye and transmits information related to the sensed open / closed state of the eye to the switching unit, wherein the switching unit is based on information from the sensor. One of the first dimming signal output from the first dimming signal generation unit and the second dimming signal output from the second dimming signal generation unit Is preferably selected.
[0018]
When the luminance of the light emitting surface of the light source is controlled by one of the first dimming signal and the second dimming signal, the luminance ratio of the maximum luminance to the minimum luminance of the light emitting surface of the light source is The luminance ratio adjusting unit further adjusts the luminance ratio adjusting unit, and when the luminance ratio is adjusted, the luminance ratio adjusting unit uses a signal indicating that the luminance ratio is adjusted to control the luminance of the light emitting surface of the light source. When the luminance of the light emitting surface of the light source is controlled by the other one, the light source is transmitted to the first dimming signal generation unit or the second dimming signal generation unit corresponding to the dimming signal that has not been transmitted. It is preferable to adjust the luminance ratio of the maximum luminance to the minimum luminance of the light emitting surface.
[0019]
The illumination control device of the present invention is an illumination control device that controls the light source so that the luminance of the light emitting surface of the light source periodically changes, and divides the lighting period of the light source into at least an introduction period and a relaxation period in order. In the introduction period, the minimum luminance L in one cycle of the luminance change of the light emitting surface of the light source. _MIN1 Maximum luminance L for _MAX1 Luminance ratio C1 (= L _MAX1 / L _MIN1 ) Is controlled so as to be substantially constant in the range of 10 <C1 ≦ 100, and in the relaxation period, the minimum luminance L in one cycle of the luminance change of the light emitting surface of the light source. _MIN2 Maximum luminance L for _MAX2 Luminance ratio C2 (= L _MAX2 / L _MIN2 ) Is controlled to be substantially constant in the range of 6 <C2 ≦ 100.
[0020]
The lighting control method of the present invention includes: In lighting control equipment An illumination control method for controlling the light source such that the luminance of the light emitting surface of the light source changes periodically, The controller of the lighting control device The lighting period of the light source is sequentially divided into at least an introduction period and a relaxation period, and in the introduction period, the minimum luminance L in one cycle of the luminance change of the light emitting surface of the light source. _MIN1 Maximum luminance L for _MAX1 Luminance ratio C1 (= L _MAX1 / L _MIN1 ) Is controlled so as to be substantially constant in the range of 10 <C1 ≦ 100, and in the relaxation period, the minimum luminance L in one cycle of the luminance change of the light emitting surface of the light source. _MIN2 Maximum luminance L for _MAX2 Luminance ratio C2 (= L _MAX2 / L _MIN2 ) Is controlled to be substantially constant in the range of 6 <C2 ≦ 100.
[0021]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, components having substantially the same function are denoted by the same reference numerals for the sake of simplicity. In addition, the present invention should not be construed as being limited to the following embodiments.
[0022]
(First embodiment)
The configuration of the illumination device according to the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a lighting device 1 according to the first embodiment. The lighting device 1 includes a light source 10 and a control unit 20 that controls the light source 10 so as to periodically change the luminance of the light emitting surface of the light source 10.
[0023]
The control unit 20 includes a first dimming signal generation unit 22 that generates a (first) dimming signal, and light emission of the light source 10 according to the dimming signal transmitted from the first dimming signal generation unit 22. And a dimming / lighting device 24 for controlling the luminance of the surface. The dimming signal generation / transmission function of the first dimming signal generation unit 22 is realized by, for example, a computer (CPU). The first dimming signal generation unit 22 outputs a voltage signal (for example, a voltage signal of 0 to 5 V) that changes over time to the dimming lighting device 24 as a dimming signal. The dimming / lighting device 24 converts the change in the voltage signal output from the first dimming signal generation unit 22 into the change in the current value supplied to the antigen 10, and supplies the current to the light source 10. The light source 10 changes the luminance of the light emitting surface according to the magnitude of the current supplied from the dimming / lighting device 24. In other words, the luminance of the light emitting surface of the light source 10 changes corresponding to a change in voltage of the dimming signal generated by the first dimming signal generation unit 22.
[0024]
As the light source 10, any light source such as an incandescent bulb, a fluorescent lamp, a bulb-type fluorescent lamp, a high-intensity discharge lamp, an LED light source, an organic EL light source, or the like can be used as long as dimming can be realized.
[0025]
FIG. 2 schematically shows a state in which the observer 30 observes the illumination light 20 from the light source 10 of the illumination device 1 while sitting on the chair 40. The lighting device 1 includes a control unit 20 in a pedestal 1a, and the control unit 20 includes an outlet 1b for connection to a power source. The luminance of the illumination light 50 changes periodically in conjunction with the periodic change of the luminance of the light emitting surface of the light source 10.
[0026]
In the example shown in FIG. 2, the lighting device 1 is in the form of a floor stand. However, the lighting device 1 is not limited to this form, and may be a stand with a short pattern such as a desk stand, or on the ceiling. It may be a ceiling light to be attached, a lighting device for general lighting of a pendant type, a lighting device for partial illumination such as a downlight attached to the ceiling, and the like. Further, it goes without saying that the illumination device 1 may be a type of illumination device that has a shape that covers the eyes of the observer 30 such as a head-mounted display, glasses, and an eyepatch and that illuminates the eyes of the observer 30. Nor. Moreover, the control part 20 and the light source 10 may be comprised separately. When the control unit 20 and the light source 10 are configured separately, the control unit 20 can be used with any type of light source 10 and function as an illumination control device that controls the light source 10.
[0027]
Here, it is assumed that the observer 30 breathes in accordance with the change in the luminance of the illumination light 50. For example, it is assumed that the observer 30 inhales during a period from when the illumination light 50 is the darkest to the brightest, and exhales during a period from when the illumination light 50 is the brightest to the darkest. In addition, the observer 30 may exhale during a period from when the illumination light 50 is darkest to when it is brightest, and breathe during a period when the illumination light 50 is brightest until it becomes darkest.
[0028]
Thus, by breathing in accordance with the change in the luminance of the illumination light 50, the observer 30 can adjust the breathing rhythm. Thereby, the relax degree of the observer 30 is improved. Here, in this specification, “relaxation” includes not only stress relief but also a feeling of good sleep.
[0029]
In FIG. 2, the control unit 20 is housed inside the base 1 a of the lighting device 1, but may be housed inside a case or the like provided in the middle of the power supply line 1 b of the lighting device 1. good. Moreover, when the light source 10 is a light bulb-type fluorescent lamp provided with a lighting circuit, the lighting circuit portion may include the control unit 20.
[0030]
Next, the principle of the illumination control method according to the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 3 schematically shows the principle of the illumination control method according to the first embodiment. In the illumination control method according to the first embodiment, the lighting period of the light source 10 is divided into at least an “introduction period” and a “relaxation period”. The relaxation period is a period later in time than the introduction period.
[0031]
The observer 30 observes the illumination light 50 with the eyes closed. During the introduction period, the light source 10 emits light so that the observer 30 whose eyes are closed easily adjusts respiration, that is, the illumination light 50 becomes “illumination light that allows the observer who closes eyes to easily respiration”. The brightness of the surface is controlled. Also, during the relaxation period, the light emitting surface of the light source 10 is such that the observer 30 with his eyes closed relaxes and burns, that is, the illumination light 50 becomes “illumination light in which the observer with his eyes closed can easily relax”. Is controlled.
[0032]
The relaxation period may be a period immediately following the introduction period, but it is preferable that a transition period is provided between the introduction period and the relaxation period. During this transition period, the illumination light 50 presented to the observer 30 gradually changes from “illumination light that allows an observer with closed eyes to easily breathe” to “illumination light that makes it easier for an observer with closed eyes to relax”. The luminance of the light emitting surface of the light source 10 is controlled so as to change.
[0033]
According to the illumination control method according to the first embodiment, the observer 30 with his eyes closed relaxes in the relaxation period after adjusting the breathing rhythm in accordance with the change in the luminance of the illumination light 50 in the introduction period. Is possible.
[0034]
Whether or not an observer with closed eyes can easily respire can be expressed only by a statistical method (for example, probability) because it is based on the psychological effect of the observer. Here, when the luminance of the illumination light is changed periodically, more than 50% of the plurality of observers say that the illumination light that says “it is easy to breathe with the eyes closed” It is defined as “illumination light that makes it easy for the observer to adjust breathing”. For example, when 10 observers observe the illumination light with their eyes closed, the illumination light that more than 5 observers answered, “Easy to adjust breathing with eyes closed” It is defined as “illumination light that makes it easy for an observer who has closed a breath to adjust”.
[0035]
Similarly, in the case where the brightness of the illumination light is changed periodically, more than 50% of a plurality of observers referred to the illumination light that “is easy to relax with the eyes closed” It is defined as “illumination light that is easy for a person to relax.”
[0036]
Next, in the illumination control method according to the first embodiment, the minimum luminance L in one cycle of the luminance change of the light emitting surface of the light source 10. _MIN Maximum luminance L for _MAX Luminance ratio C (= L _MAX / L _MIN ) Control will be described.
[0037]
When an observer who has closed his eyes perceives a change in the brightness of the illumination light (hereinafter referred to as the closed eye state), the amount of light reaching the observer's pupil is due to the eyelid between the light source and the pupil. When the observer who opens the screen observes the change in the luminance of the illumination light directly (hereinafter referred to as the eye open state), the amount of light reaching the observer's pupil is reduced to several percent. Therefore, in the closed eye state, the change in brightness can be perceived more sensitively than the amount of light, that is, the absolute brightness.
[0038]
This change in brightness is known to correspond to the illuminance ratio of the eye surface of the observer when the illumination light that changes periodically is irradiated to the eye of the observer 30. The ocular illuminance ratio is the ocular illuminance (maximum ocular surface) when the illumination light becomes the brightest with respect to the ocular illuminance (minimum ocular illuminance) when the illumination light is the darkest in one cycle of the periodic change. Illuminance) ratio (ie, maximum ocular illumination / minimum ocular illumination). In addition, in the following description, the eye surface illuminance ratio of the observer 30 located at a certain distance from the illumination device corresponds to the luminance ratio C of the light emitting surface of the illuminating light source 10. Luminance ratio C of light emitting surface (= L _MAX / L _MIN ).
[0039]
Where the minimum luminance L _MIN When is 0, the luminance ratio C cannot be calculated. Further, when the minimum brightness is very close to 0, the illumination light 50 cannot be perceived. Therefore, no matter how much the brightness ratio C is increased, the brightness ratio C is below the perception threshold, and the meaning of discussing the brightness ratio related to human perception characteristics is lost. Generally, with respect to human perceptual characteristics, the luminance value is not discussed in the last third digit, so the minimum luminance L _MIN Even if the value is 0.01 or less, the minimum luminance L _MIN The luminance ratio C is calculated assuming that ≈0.01. For example, the maximum brightness L _MAX 0.1 is the minimum luminance L _MIN Minimum brightness L when is 0 _MIN Therefore, the luminance ratio C is 10. Maximum brightness L _MAX 0.1 is the minimum luminance L _MIN When the value is 0.005, the minimum luminance L _MIN Therefore, the luminance ratio C is 10.
[0040]
In order to make it easier for an observer with his eyes closed to adapt his breathing to the change in luminance of the illumination light, it is preferable to increase the luminance ratio C. In general, the larger the luminance ratio C, the easier it is for the observer to adapt to the change in illumination light. However, if the luminance ratio C becomes too large, the load on the observer's eyes increases, so that the observer feels uncomfortable. Therefore, it is preferable that the luminance ratio C is large so as not to cause discomfort to the observer.
[0041]
In order to improve the degree of relaxation of an observer with his eyes closed, it is necessary to reduce the load on the observer's eyes. Generally, the smaller the luminance ratio C is, that is, the closer the luminance of the illumination light is to a certain level, the smaller the load on the observer's eyes. However, if the luminance ratio C becomes too small, an observer who closes his eyes cannot perceive a change in the luminance of the illumination light. In the closed eye state, the amount of light arriving at the pupil is reduced to a few percent of the amount of light reaching the eye surface. Therefore, the luminance ratio C per cycle, that is, “bright” or “dark” depending on the illuminance on the eye surface. Sensation is the only way to perceive changes in the intensity of illumination light. Therefore, it is preferable that the luminance ratio C be ensured to such an extent that an observer with his eyes closed can perceive a change in luminance of the illumination light.
[0042]
In the illumination control method according to the first embodiment, in the introduction period, the minimum luminance L in one cycle of the periodic change of the light emitting surface of the light source 10. _MIN1 Maximum luminance L for _MAX1 Luminance ratio C1 (= L _MAX1 / L _MIN1 ) Is controlled so that the luminance of the light emitting surface of the light source 10 is substantially constant. Further, in the relaxation period, the minimum luminance L in one cycle of the periodic change of the light emitting surface of the light source 10. _MIN2 Maximum luminance L for _MAX2 Luminance ratio C2 (= L _MAX2 / L _MIN2 ) Is controlled so that the luminance of the light emitting surface of the light source 10 is substantially constant. Note that “substantially constant value” means to include not only “perfectly matching” but also “differing” by an error that can be caused by normal design.
[0043]
FIG. 4 shows an example of a temporal change in luminance of the light emitting surface of the light source 10 based on the illumination control method according to the first embodiment. In FIG. 4, the horizontal axis represents time t, and the vertical axis represents the luminance L of the light emitting surface of the light source 10.
[0044]
In the example shown in FIG. 4, the luminance ratio C1 (= L _MAX1 / L _MIN1 ) Is a constant value, and during the relaxation period, the luminance ratio C2 (= L _MAX2 / L _MIN2 ) Is a constant value and the luminance ratio C1> C2. Further, the luminance ratio C3 (= L in the transition period between the introduction period and the relaxation period) _MAX3 / L _MIN3 ) Gradually decreases from the same value as the luminance ratio C1 to the same value as the luminance ratio C2.
[0045]
Next, control of maximum luminance and minimum luminance in the illumination control method according to the first embodiment will be described. In order to reduce the load applied to the eyes of the observer 30 whose eyes are closed, in addition to lowering the luminance ratio C per cycle of the luminance change of the light emitting surface of the light source 10, or the light emitting surface of the light source 10 It is preferable to reduce the luminance itself of the light emitting surface of the light source 10 instead of reducing the luminance ratio C per cycle of the luminance change. If the luminance of the light emitting surface of the light source 10 is reduced, the amount of information that enters the observer's eyes is reduced.
[0046]
FIG. 5 shows the maximum luminance L of the light emitting surface of the light source 10 based on the illumination control method according to the first embodiment. _MAX An example of the time change of is shown. In FIG. 5, the horizontal axis represents time t, and the vertical axis represents the maximum luminance L of the light emitting surface of the light source 10. _MAX Indicates. In the example shown in FIG. 5, the maximum luminance L of the light emitting surface of the light source 10. _MAX Decreases monotonically as time t elapses. In addition to that shown in FIG. 5, the maximum luminance L of the light emitting surface of the light source 10. _MAX After a certain period of time, the maximum luminance L _MAX May be monotonously decreased. That is, “monotonically decreasing” means including “constant” and “decreasing”.
[0047]
Note that the maximum luminance L as time t elapses. _MAX In addition to monotonously decreasing or as time t elapses, the maximum luminance L _MAX Instead of monotonically decreasing the minimum brightness L as time t elapses. _MIN May be monotonously decreased. This also reduces the load on the observer's eyes.
[0048]
Next, a preferable control example of the brightness ratio, the maximum brightness, and the minimum brightness by the illumination control method according to the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 6 shows an example of a temporal change in luminance of the light emitting surface of the light source 10 based on the illumination control method according to the first embodiment. In FIG. 6, the horizontal axis represents time t, and the vertical axis represents the luminance L of the light emitting surface of the light source 10. In the example shown in FIG. 6, the luminance ratio C (= L _MAX / L _MIN ), Maximum brightness L _MAX And minimum brightness L _MIN This is a preferable control example.
[0049]
Where L _MAX1 Indicates the maximum luminance per cycle during the introduction period, and L _MIN1 Indicates the minimum luminance per cycle in the introduction period. L _MAX2 Indicates the maximum luminance per cycle during the relaxation period, and L _MIN2 Indicates the minimum luminance per cycle during the relaxation period. L _MAX3 Indicates the transition of the maximum luminance per cycle in the transition period, and L _MIN3 Indicates the transition of the minimum luminance per cycle in the transition period.
[0050]
In the introduction period, the luminance ratio C1 (= L _MAX1 / L _MIN1 ) Is a constant value, and during the relaxation period, the luminance ratio C2 (= L _MAX2 / L _MIN2 ) Is a constant value. In the transition period between the introduction period and the relaxation period, the luminance ratio C3 (= L _MAX3 / L _MIN3 ) Gradually decreases from the same value as the luminance ratio C1 to the same value as the luminance ratio C2. In the example shown in FIG. 6, C1> C2 and L _MAX1 > L _MAX2 And L _MIN1 > L _MIN2 It is.
[0051]
In order to realize the “illumination light that makes it easy for an observer with eyes closed to breathe” and the “illumination light that makes it easy for an observer with eyes closed to relax” described with reference to FIG. It is important to design the luminance ratio C1 in the introduction period and the luminance ratio C2 in the relaxation period corresponding to the closed eye state.
[0052]
FIG. 7 shows an example of an experimental environment used for obtaining the values of the luminance ratio C1 and the luminance ratio C2 shown in FIG. The control unit 20 controls the light emission of the light source 10 so that the luminance of the light emitting surface 10b of the light source 10 changes periodically. By changing the value of the parameter set by the experimenter 60 in the control unit 20, the mode (pattern) of changing the luminance of the light emitting surface 10 b of the light source 10 can be changed. The observer 30 observes the illumination light 50 from the light source 10 with the eyelids closed. A light shielding plate 10a is provided between the light source 10 and the observer 30, and shields light emitted from the light source 10 except for the illumination light 50 emitted from the light emitting surface 10b. The light emitting surface 10b is made sufficiently large so that the eyelid portion of the observer 30 is uniformly irradiated by the diffused light from the light emitting surface 10b with the eyes closed.
[0053]
The power supplied to the light source 10 while changing the distance between the light emitting surface 10b and the observer 30 in order to widen the range of maximum utility and minimum illuminance on the eye surface of the observer 30 as much as possible (for example, several lx to several thousand lx). In order to reduce the amount of illumination light 50 from the light source 10, an ND filter was used in combination. In particular, it is clear that the observer settles down when the brightness of the illumination light is lowered. Therefore, by using an ND filter, it was possible to reproduce up to 0.01 lx, which is the minimum ocular illuminance in practical use.
[0054]
For the purpose of relaxing, all the luminance changes in the eye surface of the observer 30 obtained by using a general lighting device could be reproduced by this experimental condition. Light sources other than the light source 10 were excluded, and the periphery of the observer 30 was dark. Seven subjects with normal vision and color vision participated in the experiment.
[0055]
Hereinafter, a method for designing the values of the luminance ratio C1 in the introduction period and the luminance ratio C2 in the relaxation period illustrated in FIG. 6 will be described in detail.
[0056]
In the illumination control method according to the first embodiment, it is most important that an observer with his eyes closed can synchronize the breathing rhythm with the change in the brightness of the illumination light. In order to synchronize the rhythm of respiration, it is necessary to be able to perceive at least the period of the luminance change of the illumination light with the eyes closed. In order to perceive the period of the luminance change of the illumination light, it is important to be able to perceive the maximum luminance and the minimum luminance of the illumination light. That is, the minimum luminance L per cycle that allows an observer with closed eyes to perceive the maximum luminance and the minimum luminance of the illumination light. _MIN Maximum luminance L for _MAX It is important to find the lower limit value of the luminance ratio C.
[0057]
By the way, in order to improve the observer's degree of relaxation during the relaxation period, it is necessary to reduce the load on the observer's eyes as much as possible. Therefore, the lower limit value of the luminance ratio C2 during the relaxation period is the minimum luminance L per cycle that allows an observer with closed eyes to perceive the maximum luminance and the minimum luminance of the illumination light. _MIN Maximum luminance L for _MAX Is the lower limit of the luminance ratio C.
[0058]
Under the experimental environment shown in FIG. 7, the observer 30 who has closed his eyes has the maximum luminance L of the illumination light 50. _MAX And minimum brightness L _MIN Ratio C (= L _MAX / L _MIN An experiment for obtaining the lower limit value of K _MAX Indicates the maximum luminance per cycle on the light emitting surface 10b of the light source 10, and L _MIN Indicates the minimum luminance per cycle on the light emitting surface 10 b of the light source 10. The experiment is the minimum luminance L _MIN Four types of illumination light 50 having 4 lx, 2 lx, 1 lx, and 0.5 lx were used.
[0059]
Each of the eight observers 30 is asked to observe the illumination light 50 with the eyes closed and to respond when the brightness of the illumination light 50 is felt to be maximum, and each observer 30 responds. The difference ΔT between the measured time (time) TS and the actual time (time) TL at which the luminance of the illumination light 50 is physically maximized was measured. Next, the illumination light 50 is observed with the eyes closed, and a request is made to respond when the brightness of the illumination light 50 is felt to be minimum, and the time (time) TS when each observer 30 responds. A difference ΔT from the actual time (time) TL at which the luminance of the illumination light 50 is physically minimized was measured.
[0060]
The same experiment was repeated 5 times for one observer. Some observers may not be able to determine whether or not the luminance of the illumination light is maximized or minimized because of the closed eye state. As a result, the number of responses made by the observer varied. The average value of the time difference ΔT measured for each response by one observer was taken as the measurement result for that observer.
[0061]
The experimenter 60 set various values of the luminance ratio C in one cycle of the luminance change of the light emitting surface 10b of the light source 10. The observer 30 pressed the switch button at the moment when the luminance of the illumination light 50 was felt to be maximum or minimum with the eyes closed, and recorded the time TS at that time. Moreover, the actual luminance change of the illumination light 50 was measured, and the time TL when the measured luminance was maximum or minimum was recorded. Then, the difference ΔT = | TS−TL | was calculated.
[0062]
Here, the meaning of TS and ΔT will be described. The observer 30 observes the luminance change of the illumination light 50 with the eyes closed, and adjusts the breathing rhythm according to the observation result. Accordingly, it is considered that the time TS indicating the moment when the observer 30 feels that the luminance of the illumination light 50 is maximum is almost the same as the time when the observer 30 starts to exhale. Therefore, the difference ΔT between the time TS and the time TL is considered to be a delay with respect to the time when the luminance of the illumination light 50 becomes maximum when the observer starts to exhale. Accordingly, the smaller the difference ΔT is, the smaller the difference between the time when the observer 30 starts to breathe out and the time when the luminance of the illumination light 50 is maximized. Therefore, the luminance change of the illumination light 50 and the breathing of the observer 30 are reduced. It is thought that the rhythm of
[0063]
Similarly, the time TS indicating the moment when the observer 30 feels that the luminance of the illumination light 50 is minimum is considered to be substantially the same as the time when the observer 30 starts to breathe. Therefore, the difference ΔT between the time TS and the time TL is considered to be a delay with respect to the time when the luminance of the illumination light 50 is minimized when the observer 30 starts to breathe. Accordingly, the smaller the difference ΔT is, the smaller the difference between the time when the observer 30 starts to breathe and the time when the luminance of the illumination light 50 is maximized. It is thought that the rhythm of
[0064]
As described above, depending on the observer, it may not be possible to determine whether the luminance of the illumination light is maximized or minimized because of the closed eye state. Therefore, it is considered that the number of responses is highly correlated with the fact that the observer who closed his eyes was able to perceive the maximum and minimum brightness of the illumination light. Therefore, a value obtained by multiplying the number of responses to the number of experiments performed on the observer 30 by 100 is calculated as the response rate RS.
[0065]
FIG. 8 to FIG. 10 show the results of the above experiment. Minimum brightness L _MIN Since there was no difference in the results for the four types of illumination light 50 having a value of 4 lx, 2 lx, 1 lx, and 0.5 lx, the minimum luminance L _MIN FIG. 8A, FIG. 9A, and FIG. 10A show the results for the illumination light 50 with a minimum luminance L of 4 lx. _MIN FIG. 8B, FIG. 9B, and FIG. 10B show the results with respect to the illumination light 50 that becomes 0.5 lx.
[0066]
FIG. 8 shows the experimental results regarding the time difference ΔT and the luminance ratio C of the illumination light 50. 8A and 8B, the horizontal axis represents the luminance ratio C2 (= L _MAX2 / L _MIN2 ) On the logarithmic axis, and the vertical axis shows the difference ΔT (seconds). Square marks are experimental results when the luminance of the illumination light 50 is felt to be maximum, and circles are experimental results when the luminance of the illumination light 50 is felt to be minimum.
[0067]
As can be seen from FIGS. 8A and 8B, as the value of the luminance ratio C increases, the difference ΔT monotonously decreases in any case. In the case where the luminance of the illumination light is felt to be minimum, the difference ΔT becomes substantially constant when the value of the luminance ratio C2 is 4 or more. When the brightness is felt to be maximum, when the value of the brightness ratio C2 is 6 or more, an inflection point of the difference ΔT is seen and becomes gradually constant. Therefore, when the value of the brightness ratio C2 is 6 or more, the observer 30 delays the actual time when the brightness of the illumination light 50 feels the maximum and the minimum when the eyes are closed. That is, the time required for discrimination is constant.
[0068]
FIG. 9 shows experimental results regarding the response ratio RS (%) and the luminance ratio C of the illumination light 50. In (a) and (b) of FIG. 9, the horizontal axis represents the luminance ratio C2 (= L _MAX2 / L _MIN2 ) Is shown on the logarithmic axis, and the vertical axis shows the response rate RS (%). Square marks are experimental results when the luminance of the illumination light 50 is felt to be maximum, and circles are experimental results when the luminance of the illumination light 50 is felt to be minimum. From FIGS. 9A and 9B, it can be seen that when the value of the luminance ratio C is 4 or more, the response rate RS is approximately constant at about 90% in any case.
[0069]
From the results shown in FIG. 8 and FIG. 9, when the value of the luminance ratio C2 is 6 or more, it is determined whether the luminance of the illumination light 50 is maximum or minimum even when the observer is closed. Since the response rate RS is 90% or more, it has been clarified that an observer who has closed his eyes can synchronize the breathing rhythm with the change in luminance of the illumination light. From the above, in the relaxation period, the minimum luminance L per cycle of the luminance change of the illumination light _MIN2 Maximum luminance L for _MAX2 Luminance ratio C2 (= L _MAX2 / L _MIN2 ) Must satisfy the condition of 6 ≦ C2.
[0070]
Then, the result of having examined about the lower limit of luminance ratio C1 in the introduction period is shown. In designing the luminance ratio C1 during the introduction period, it is important that an observer with his eyes closed easily adjusts to the change in luminance of the illumination light. Eight observers observe each of the illumination lights 50 from the light source 10 with their eyes closed, and an evaluation item “whether the observer with his eyes closed can easily understand the change in luminance of the illumination light” I had a subjective evaluation of. Evaluation items were evaluated in four stages: "I understand well", "I understand", "I don't understand", and "I don't know". Each evaluation was given a score of +3, +2, +1, 0 in order, and the score of each evaluation item was the average value of the scores evaluated by eight observers. A score of 2 or more for the evaluation item is equivalent to the observer evaluating “know” with a psychological probability of 50% or more. An illumination condition when the score of the evaluation item is 2 or more is defined as “an illumination condition in which a change in luminance of illumination light can be seen in a closed eye state”.
[0071]
FIG. 10 shows the result of the subjective evaluation of the observer regarding “whether the observer with his eyes closed can easily understand the change in luminance of the illumination light”. In FIGS. 10A and 10B, the horizontal axis indicates the value of the luminance ratio C1 on the logarithmic axis, and the vertical axis indicates the subjective evaluation value. As is clear from FIGS. 10A and 10B, when the value of the luminance ratio C1 is larger than 10, the subjective evaluation value becomes 2 or more. Therefore, it was found that when the value of the luminance ratio C1 is larger than 10, the observer who closed his eyes evaluated that the change in luminance of the illumination light was easy to understand. From the above, in the introduction period, the minimum luminance L per cycle of the luminance change _MIN1 Maximum luminance L for _MAX1 Luminance ratio C1 (= L _MAX1 / L _MIN1 ) Must satisfy the condition of 10 <C1.
[0072]
Furthermore, in order to improve the observer's degree of relaxation during the introduction period and the relaxation period, it is necessary to eliminate discomfort given to the observer.
[0073]
Under the experimental environment shown in FIG. 7, even when the observer 30 observes the illumination light with his eyes closed, the luminance ratio C (= L _MAX / L _MIN An experiment was conducted to determine the upper limit value. Eight observers were asked to observe the illumination light 50 from the light source 10 in which the luminance ratio C was changed within a predetermined range, and the upper limit value of the luminance ratio C that did not cause discomfort was answered.
[0074]
FIG. 11 shows the experimental results. In FIG. 11, the horizontal axis indicates the value of the luminance ratio C on the logarithmic axis, and the vertical axis indicates the probability (%) that the observer does not feel uncomfortable. The experimental apparatus shown in FIG. 7 was used. The experimental conditions were the same, and as a result of observing the illumination light in which the ocular illuminance and the ocular illuminance ratio were changed in a high range, the user was asked to select either “no discomfort” or “feeling discomfort”. There are seven observers with normal vision and color vision. The percentage (%) of the number of people who answered “no discomfort” for each condition was calculated, and this was set as the psychological probability (%) “not feel discomfort”. For example, when four people answer that they do not feel uncomfortable, the psychological probability is 4/7 × 100 = 57%.
[0075]
As can be seen from FIG. 11, even if the value of the luminance ratio C increases, the observer who closes his eyes does not feel uncomfortable until the value reaches 15. On the other hand, when the value of the luminance ratio C exceeds 15, the psychological probability that the observer who has closed his eyes “feels no discomfort” decreases monotonously. When the value of the luminance ratio C is 30, the psychological probability that the observer who has closed his eyes will not feel uncomfortable is 75%. Extrapolating this curve, when the value of the luminance ratio C is 50, the psychological probability that the observer who has closed his eyes will not feel uncomfortable is less than 60%, and when the value of the luminance ratio C exceeds 100, It is expected that the psychological probability that an observer with closed eyes will not feel uncomfortable will be less than 50%. Therefore, in both the introduction period and the relaxation period, when the value of the luminance ratio C is 100 or less (C ≦ 100), the psychological probability that the observer who has closed his eyes does not feel uncomfortable is 50% or more. I understand that
[0076]
From the above, the luminance ratio C1 in the introduction period and the luminance ratio C2 in the relaxation period need to be designed to satisfy C1 ≦ 100 and C2 ≦ 100, respectively. Accordingly, the luminance ratio C1 in the introduction period is substantially constant in the range of 10 <C1 ≦ 100, and the luminance ratio C2 in the relaxation period is substantially constant in the range of 6 ≦ C2 ≦ 100. It is necessary to be designed to be.
[0077]
When the value of the brightness ratio C is 50, the psychological probability that an observer who has closed his eyes does not feel uncomfortable is 60%. Therefore, in order not to cause discomfort to more people, It is preferable that the luminance ratio C1 and the luminance ratio C2 in the relaxation period are designed so as to satisfy the conditions of C1 ≦ 50 and C2 ≦ 50, respectively. Therefore, the luminance ratio C1 in the introduction period is substantially constant in the range of 10 <C1 ≦ 50, and the luminance ratio C2 in the relaxation period is substantially constant in the range of 6 ≦ C2 ≦ 50. It is preferable to be designed as follows.
[0078]
Moreover, when the value of the luminance ratio C is 30, the psychological probability that an observer who has closed his eyes will not feel uncomfortable is 75%. It is preferable that the luminance ratio C1 in the period and the luminance ratio C2 in the relaxation period are designed so as to satisfy the conditions of C1 ≦ 30 and C2 ≦ 30, respectively. Accordingly, the luminance ratio C1 in the introduction period is substantially constant in the range of 10 <C1 ≦ 30, and the luminance ratio C2 in the relaxation period is substantially constant in the range of 6 ≦ C2 ≦ 30. It is preferable to be designed as follows.
[0079]
In addition, when the luminance ratio C is 15, the psychological probability that an observer who has closed his eyes will not feel uncomfortable is 100%. The luminance ratio C1 in the period and the luminance ratio C2 in the relaxation period are preferably designed so as to satisfy the conditions of C1 ≦ 15 and C2 ≦ 15, respectively. Therefore, the luminance ratio C1 in the introduction period is substantially constant in the range of 10 <C1 ≦ 15, and the luminance ratio C2 in the relaxation period is substantially constant in the range of 6 ≦ C2 ≦ 15. It is preferable to be designed as follows.
[0080]
(Second Embodiment)
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. In general, when a user intends to relax using the lighting device, lighting control device or lighting method of the present invention, some people use with their eyes open, others use with their eyes closed. There is also. In addition, even the same user may want to use the camera with the eyes open, or may use the camera with the eyes closed. The second embodiment enables these demands.
[0081]
FIG. 12 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the illumination device 2 according to the second embodiment. The illumination device 2 includes a light source 10 and a control unit 20 that controls the light source 10 so as to periodically change the luminance of the light emitting surface of the light source 10.
[0082]
The control unit 20 includes a first dimming signal generation unit 22 that generates a first dimming signal, a second dimming signal generation unit 23 that generates a second dimming signal, and a first dimming A switching unit 70 for selecting and switching one of the first dimming signal generated by the signal generation unit 22 and the second dimming signal generated by the second dimming signal generation unit 23; And a dimming / lighting device 24 that controls the luminance of the light emitting surface of the light source 10 using the dimming signal selected by 70. The functions of the first dimming signal generation unit 22 and the second dimming signal generation unit 23 can be realized by a computer (CPU), for example.
[0083]
The first dimming signal generation unit 22 generates the first dimming signal when the observer uses the illumination device 2 with his eyes closed. The second dimming signal generation unit 23 generates the second dimming signal when the illuminating device 2 is used with the observer opening his / her eyes. Specifically, when a change in luminance of the light emitting surface of the light source 10 is controlled using the first dimming signal from the first dimming signal generation unit 22 at a certain time t, the luminance change in one cycle. Minimum brightness L _MINT1 Maximum luminance L for _MAX1 The luminance ratio of CT1 (= L _MAX1 / L _MINT1 ), And when the change in the luminance of the light emitting surface of the light source 10 is controlled using the second dimming signal from the second dimming signal generator 23, the minimum luminance L in one cycle of the luminance change. _MINT2 Maximum luminance L for _MAX2 The luminance ratio of CT2 (= L _MAX2 / L _MINT2 ), The luminance ratio CT2 is controlled to be smaller than the luminance ratio CT1 (CT1> CT2).
[0084]
Next, control of the luminance ratio CT1 by the first dimming signal generation unit 22 will be described. When the conditions of the luminance ratios C1 and C2 in the introduction period and the relaxation period described in the first embodiment are applied to the second embodiment, the introduction period is substantially constant in the range of 10 <CT1 ≦ 100. In the relaxation period, it is necessary to be designed to be substantially constant in the range of 6 ≦ CT1 ≦ 100. Further, preferable conditions are 10 <CT1 ≦ 50 in the introduction period, and 6 ≦ CT1 ≦ 50 in the relaxation period. Further preferable conditions are 10 <CT1 ≦ 30 in the introduction period and 6 ≦ CT1 ≦ 30 in the relaxation period.
[0085]
Next, the control of the luminance ratio CT2 by the second dimming signal generation unit 23 will be described. In Japanese Patent Application No. 2000-375315 by the present inventors, when the observer observes the illumination light directly with the eyes open, the observer adjusts the breathing rhythm according to the change in the brightness of the illumination light. Illumination control conditions are shown that make it easier for the observer to relax. When this condition is applied to the second embodiment, the condition of 6 ≦ CT2 ≦ 10 must be satisfied in the introduction period, and the condition of 3 ≦ CT2 ≦ 5 must be satisfied in the relaxation period. Hereinafter, the basis for deriving the limitation of the luminance ratio CT2 will be briefly described.
[0086]
First, the reason for limiting the numerical value of the luminance ratio CT2 during the introduction period will be described. Under the experimental environment shown in FIG. 7, the luminance ratio CT2 (= L) that does not cause discomfort even when the observer 30 directly observes the illumination light with the eyes open. _MAX / L _MIN An experiment was conducted to determine the upper limit value. L _MAX Indicates the maximum luminance per cycle of the light emitting surface 10b of the light source 10, and L _MIN Indicates the minimum luminance per cycle of the light emitting surface 10b of the light source 10.
[0087]
Eight observers were asked to observe a plurality of illumination lights 50 in which the luminance ratio CT2 was changed within a predetermined range, and the upper limit of the luminance ratio CT2 without feeling uncomfortable was answered. The same experiment was repeated three times for one observer, and the average value of the three answers obtained in the three experiments was used as the answer for that observer.
[0088]
FIG. 13 shows the experimental results. In FIG. 13, the horizontal axis indicates the value of the luminance ratio CT2, and the vertical axis indicates the psychological probability (%) that the observer does not feel uncomfortable. The psychological probability that the observer does not feel uncomfortable is obtained by (number of observers who answered that they do not feel uncomfortable) / (number of all observers) × 100 (%). For example, if four of the eight observers answered “no discomfort”, the psychological probability that the observer “not discomfort” is 50%.
[0089]
As can be seen from FIG. 13, when the value of the luminance ratio CT2 is 6, the probability that the observer will not feel uncomfortable is 100% (that is, no observer feels unpleasant), and the luminance ratio CT2 As the value increases, the psychological probability that the observer does not feel uncomfortable decreases monotonously, and when the luminance ratio CT2 is 10 or more, the psychological probability that the observer does not feel uncomfortable becomes less than 50%. Therefore, it can be seen from FIG. 13 that when the condition of 6 ≦ CT2 <10 is satisfied, the psychological probability that the observer does not feel uncomfortable is 50% or more. From the above, it is preferable that the luminance ratio CT2 in the introduction period is designed so as to satisfy the condition of 6 ≦ CT2 <10.
[0090]
Next, the grounds for limiting the numerical value of the luminance ratio CT2 during the relaxation period will be described. Under the experimental environment shown in FIG. 7, the luminance ratio CT2 (= L) that does not cause discomfort even when the observer 30 directly observes the illumination light with the eyes open. _MAX / L _MIN An experiment was conducted to determine the upper limit value. However, in this experiment, the illumination light 50 is in a state where the light amount of the illumination light 50 is reduced as compared with the experiment for obtaining the basis for limiting the numerical value of the luminance ratio CT2 in the introduction period, and the observer 30 is in a semi-conscious state. It was done in a state where the rhythm of breathing could be adjusted to changes in the amount of light.
[0091]
Eight observers were asked to observe a plurality of illumination lights 50 in which the luminance ratio CT2 was changed within a predetermined range, and the upper limit of the luminance ratio CT2 without feeling uncomfortable was answered. The same experiment was repeated three times for one observer, and the average value of the three answers obtained in the three experiments was used as the answer for that observer.
[0092]
FIG. 14 shows the experimental results. In FIG. 14, the horizontal axis represents the value of the luminance ratio CT2, and the vertical axis represents the psychological probability (%) that the observer does not feel uncomfortable. As can be seen from FIG. 14, as the value of the luminance ratio CT2 increases, the psychological probability that the observer “does not feel uncomfortable” monotonously decreases, and when the value of the luminance ratio CT2 exceeds 5, The psychological probability is less than 50%. Therefore, when the luminance ratio CT2 satisfies the condition of CT2 ≦ 5, it can be seen that the psychological probability that the observer “not feels uncomfortable” is 50% or more. From the above, it is preferable that the luminance ratio CT2 in the relaxation period is designed so as to satisfy the condition of CT2 ≦ 5.
[0093]
Further, under the experimental environment shown in FIG. 7, the luminance ratio CT2 (= L) that allows the observer 30 to synchronize the breathing rhythm. _MAX / L _MIN An experiment for obtaining the lower limit value of
[0094]
Five observers 30 are asked to respond when they feel that the amount of illumination light is maximum, and the time TS when each observer 30 responds and the amount of illumination light 50 is physically maximum. By measuring the difference ΔT from the time TL, the lower limit value of the luminance ratio CT2 capable of adjusting the breathing rhythm was determined. The same experiment was repeated five times for one observer, and the average value of the five measurement results obtained in the five experiments was taken as the measurement result for that observer.
[0095]
The experimenter 60 set various values of the luminance ratio C in one cycle of the luminance change of the light emitting surface 10b of the light source 10. The observer 30 pressed the button of the switch at the moment when the brightness of the illumination light 50 was felt to be maximum with the eyes open, and recorded the time TS at that time. Moreover, the actual luminance change of the illumination light 50 was measured, and the time TL when the measured luminance was maximum or minimum was recorded. Then, the difference ΔT = | TS−TL | was calculated.
[0096]
Here, the meaning of TS and ΔT will be described. The observer 30 observes the luminance change of the illumination light 50 with the eyes open, and adjusts the breathing rhythm according to the observation result. Accordingly, it is considered that the time TS indicating the moment when the observer 30 feels that the luminance of the illumination light 50 is maximum is almost the same as the time when the observer 30 starts to exhale. Therefore, the difference ΔT between the time TS and the time TL is considered to be a delay with respect to the time when the luminance of the illumination light 50 becomes maximum when the observer starts to exhale. Accordingly, the smaller the difference ΔT is, the smaller the difference between the time when the observer 30 starts to breathe out and the time when the luminance of the illumination light 50 is maximized. Therefore, the luminance change of the illumination light 50 and the breathing of the observer 30 are reduced. It is thought that the rhythm of
[0097]
FIG. 15 shows the experimental results. In FIG. 15, the horizontal axis indicates the value of the luminance ratio CT2, and the vertical axis indicates the difference ΔT (seconds). As can be seen from FIG. 15, the difference ΔT monotonously decreases as the value of the brightness ratio CT2 increases, and when the value of the brightness ratio CT2 becomes 3 or more, the difference ΔT becomes approximately constant at about 0.3. That is, when the value of the luminance ratio CT2 is 3 or more, the time required for the observer 30 to determine when the luminance (or light amount) of the illumination light 50 is maximum is constant. From this, it became clear that when the value of the luminance ratio CT2 is 3 or more, the observer 30 can determine when the luminance of the illumination light 50 is maximum. From the above, it is preferable that the luminance ratio CT2 in the relaxation period is designed so as to satisfy the condition of 3 ≦ CT2.
[0098]
From the experimental results shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, it is preferable that the luminance ratio CT2 in the relaxation period is designed to be substantially constant in the range of 3 ≦ CT2 ≦ 5.
[0099]
Next, the relationship between the first dimming signal generation unit 22 and the second dimming signal generation unit 23 will be described. As described above, when the luminance of the light emitting surface 10a of the light source 10 is controlled using the first dimming signal generated by the first dimming signal generation unit 22, the lower limit value of the luminance ratio CT1 in the introduction period is 10. Further, when the luminance of the light emitting surface 10a of the light source 10 is controlled using the second dimming signal generated by the second dimming signal generation unit 23, the lower limit value of the luminance ratio CT2 in the introduction period is 6. It was. Therefore, it can be seen that the luminance ratio CT1 is about 1.5 times higher than the luminance ratio CT2.
[0100]
When the luminance of the light emitting surface 10a of the light source 10 is controlled using the first dimming signal generated by the first dimming signal generation unit 22, the lower limit value of the luminance ratio CT1 during the relaxation period is 6. It was. In addition, when the luminance of the light emitting surface 10a of the light source 10 is controlled using the second dimming signal generated by the second dimming signal generation unit 23, the lower limit value of the luminance ratio CT2 during the relaxation period is 3. . Therefore, it can be seen that the luminance ratio CT1 is twice as high as the luminance ratio CT2.
[0101]
From these facts, at a certain time T, the luminance CT1 when the eyes of the light emitting surface 10a of the light source 10 controlled by using the first dimming signal generated by the first dimming signal generation unit 22 is closed is The first dimming signal generation unit 23 controls the first dimming signal to be 1.5 times or more of the luminance ratio CT2 when the light emitting surface 10a of the light source 10 is controlled to be opened using the second dimming signal. It is preferably designed to generate a dimming signal and a second dimming signal.
[0102]
Next, a preferable control example of the illumination device 2 according to the second embodiment will be described. For example, in the case of an illuminating device having only one light source 10 and dimming / lighting device 24, the upper limit value and the lower limit value of the luminance change of the illumination light 50 emitted from the light source 10 due to hardware limitations of dimming control, that is, , Maximum brightness L _CMAX And light source minimum brightness L _CMIN Is often determined.
[0103]
Maximum light source brightness L _CMAX And light source minimum brightness L _CMIN In the case of using the lighting device 2 (or the dimming / lighting device 24) for which the eye is fixed, the time change of the luminance of the light emitting surface of the light source 10 when the eyes are closed and the time change of the luminance of the light emitting surface of the light source 10 when the eyes are opened An example is shown in FIG.
[0104]
In FIG. 16, the horizontal axis represents time t, and the vertical axis represents the luminance L of the light emitting surface of the light source 10. A solid line indicates a change in luminance of the light emitting surface of the light source 10 controlled using the first dimming signal generated by the first dimming signal generation unit 22 corresponding to the control when the eyes are closed. A broken line indicates a change in luminance on the light emitting surface of the light source 10 controlled using the second dimming signal generated by the second dimming signal generation unit 23 corresponding to the eye opening.
[0105]
In the introduction period, the maximum luminance on the light emitting surface of the light source 10 by the control using the first dimming signal is set to L _CMAX , L is the minimum luminance _MINT1 , The luminance ratio is CT11 (= L _CMAX / L _MINT1 ) And the maximum luminance on the light emitting surface of the light source 10 by the control using the second dimming signal is L _CMAX , L is the minimum luminance _MINT2 , The luminance ratio is CT21 (= L _CMAX / L _MINT2 ). In the relaxation period, the maximum luminance on the light emitting surface of the light source 10 by the control using the first dimming signal is set to L. _MAX1 , L is the minimum luminance _CMIN , Luminance ratio CT12 (= L _MAX1 / L _CMIN ) And the maximum luminance on the light emitting surface of the light source 10 by the control using the second dimming signal is L _MAX2 , L is the minimum luminance _CMIN , Luminance ratio CT22 (= L _MAX2 / L _CMIN ).
[0106]
As can be seen from FIG. 16, when the transition from the introduction period to the relaxation period proceeds to the relaxation period, the maximum luminance (for example, L _CMAX , L _MAX1 ) Is the maximum brightness when the eye is opened (for example, L _CMAX , L _MAX2 ) Or greater. This is because the light source maximum luminance L of the light source 10 is limited by the dimming / lighting device 24. _CMAX And the maximum luminance L of the light source _CMAX Is used both when the eyes are closed and when the eyes are opened, it is because the observer cannot be synchronized unless the brightness ratios CT11 and CT12 when the eyes are closed are larger than the brightness ratios CT21 and CT22 when the eyes are opened, respectively.
[0107]
Further, as can be seen from FIG. 16, when the transition from the introduction period to the transition period proceeds to the relaxation period, the minimum luminance (for example, L _MINT1 , L _CMIN ) Is the minimum brightness when the eye is opened (for example, L _MINT2 , L _CMIN ) Or less. This is because the light source minimum luminance L of the light source 10 is limited by the dimming / lighting device 24. _CMIN And the light source minimum luminance L _CMIN Is used both when the eyes are closed and when the eyes are opened, it is because the observer cannot be synchronized unless the brightness ratios CT11 and CT12 when the eyes are closed are larger than the brightness ratios CT21 and CT22 when the eyes are opened, respectively.
[0108]
(Third embodiment)
Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. As described above, depending on the user, the lighting device, the lighting control device, or the lighting method of the present invention may be used with the eyes open or with the eyes closed. However, it is very troublesome for the observer 30 to switch the setting for use in the open eye state and the setting for use in the closed eye state by operating the switching unit 70 each time. In the third embodiment, it is possible to automatically switch the setting for use in the open eye state and the setting for use in the closed eye state.
[0109]
FIG. 17 shows a configuration of the illumination device 3 according to the third embodiment. In addition to the configuration of the lighting device 2 according to the second embodiment shown in FIG. 12, the lighting device 3 shown in FIG. 17 detects the eye open / closed state of the observer 30 and provides information corresponding to the eye open / closed state. A sensing unit 80 for inputting to the switching unit 70 is provided. The sensing unit 80 includes, for example, a CCD camera, detects the open / closed state of the eye of the observer 30 by performing image processing on the obtained image data by a computer (CPU), and corresponds to the detected open / closed state of the eye. The signal is transmitted to the switching unit 70 via the D / A board.
[0110]
(Fourth embodiment)
Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. When trying to relax using the lighting device, the lighting control device or the lighting method of the present invention, the maximum luminance and the luminance ratio that are uncomfortable depending on the usage situation and the observer are different, so the luminance change per cycle of the illumination light is different. Minimum brightness L _MIN Maximum luminance L for _MAX There are times when it is desirable to adjust the luminance ratio C of the observer. In the fourth embodiment, the minimum luminance L per cycle of the luminance change of the illumination light. _MIN Maximum luminance L for _MAX It is possible to adjust the luminance ratio C.
[0111]
FIG. 18 shows a configuration of the illumination device 4 according to the fourth embodiment. The lighting device 4 shown in FIG. 18 includes the first dimming signal or the first dimming signal generated by the first dimming signal generation unit 22 in addition to the configuration of the lighting device 2 according to the second embodiment shown in FIG. The minimum luminance L in one cycle of the luminance change of the light emitting surface of the light source 10 controlled by using the second dimming signal generated by the second dimming signal generation unit 23 _MIN Maximum luminance L for _MAX Luminance ratio C (= L _MAX / L _MIN ) Is further provided.
[0112]
The luminance ratio adjusting unit 90 is connected to the switching unit 70 and, for example, the first dimming signal or the second dimming selected by the switching unit 70 according to the operation amount of the switch operated by the observer. Adjust the signal. When the first dimming signal and the second dimming signal are, for example, signals whose voltage values change periodically, the luminance ratio adjusting unit 90 uses the voltage values of the first dimming signal or the second dimming signal. Adjust. For adjusting the luminance ratio C, for example, information corresponding to the operation amount of the switch is transmitted to the first dimming signal generation unit 22 or the second dimming signal generation unit 23 via the switching unit 70, and the first The first dimming signal or the second dimming signal is changed at the stage generated by the first dimming signal generation unit 22 or the second dimming signal generation unit 23.
[0113]
In addition, the luminance ratio adjusting unit 90 has a function of adjusting the luminance ratio of a dimming signal that is not used for controlling the light source 10 when the dimming signal is used. For example, the change in luminance of the light emitting surface of the light source 10 is controlled using the first dimming signal generated by the first dimming signal generation unit 22, and the minimum luminance L in one cycle of luminance change is controlled. _MIN Maximum luminance L for _MAX Luminance ratio C (= L _MAX / L _MIN ) Is adjusted by the luminance ratio adjusting unit 90. The luminance ratio adjusting unit 90 also provides the “brightness ratio to the second dimming signal generation unit 23 that generates the second dimming signal that is not used for controlling the change in luminance of the light emitting surface of the light source 10. Information indicating that the adjustment has been performed is transmitted, and the second dimming signal is processed in the same manner as the first dimming signal. The same applies to the reverse case.
[0114]
“Information indicating that the luminance ratio has been adjusted” transmitted to the first dimming signal generation unit 22 or the second dimming signal generation unit 23 corresponding to the dimming signal not used for controlling the light source 10 Is a signal corresponding to CTL / CTF if the luminance ratio before adjustment is CTF and the luminance ratio after adjustment is CTL at a certain time t.
[0115]
For example, it is assumed that the observer in the open eye state adjusts the second dimming signal generated by the second dimming signal generation unit 23 by the luminance ratio adjustment unit 90 during the introduction period. If the value of the brightness ratio CTF2 before the adjustment is 6, and the brightness ratio CTL2 after the adjustment is 8, the ratio CTL2 / CTF2 is 8 / 6≈1.33. Therefore, a signal corresponding to 1.33 is transmitted. If the value of the luminance ratio CTF1 before adjustment when it is assumed that the first dimming signal that is not used for controlling the light source 10 is used is 10, the value 1.33 indicated by the transmitted information is shown. 10 × 1.33 = 13.3, and the first dimming signal generation unit 22 automatically adjusts the value of the luminance ratio CTL1 to 13.3.
[0116]
With this function, even when the luminance change of the light emitting surface of the light source 10 controlled by using the first dimming signal by the first dimming signal generation unit 22 is observed in the closed eye state, the second dimming is performed in the open eye state. Even when the luminance change of the light emitting surface of the light source 10 controlled using the second dimming signal by the signal generation unit 23 is observed, the luminance change of the illumination light looks the same.
[0117]
(Fifth embodiment)
Next, a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 19 shows the configuration of a lighting apparatus according to the fifth embodiment. In the fifth embodiment, any one of the control units 20 of the illumination devices 1, 2, 3, and 4 in the above-described embodiments is separated from the light source 10 to form a single illumination control device 100. The illumination control device 100 exhibits the functions of the above-described embodiments by being connected between the existing illumination device (illumination device not having the function of the present invention) 11 and the outlet 12. By using this illumination control device 100, the conventional illumination device can be upgraded to an illumination device having a function equivalent to that of the illumination device of the present invention.
[0118]
(Sixth embodiment)
Next, a sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described. The structure of the illuminating device by 6th Embodiment is shown in FIG. In the sixth embodiment, one of the control units 20 of the illumination devices 1, 2, 3 and 4 in each of the above embodiments is separated into two parts, and a part is integrated with the light source to form the illumination device 13. The remaining portion is made into a remote control to form the lighting control device 101. For example, the dimming / lighting device 24 shown in FIG. 1 is integrated with the light source 10 and provided on the lighting device 12 side, and the dimming signal generation unit 22 is provided on the lighting control device 101 side. According to such a configuration, for example, referring to FIG. 2, the observer 30 located away from the light source 10 operates the light control device (remote controller) 101 at hand, depending on the closed eye state and the open eye state. The dimming signal can be switched and the brightness ratio C can be adjusted.
[0119]
【The invention's effect】
According to the present invention, during the introduction period, when the observer observes the illumination light with the eyes closed, the light emission of the light source becomes “illumination light that makes it easy for the observer with eyes closed to breathe”. The brightness of the surface can be controlled. Also, during the relaxation period, the brightness of the light-emitting surface of the light source is controlled so that when the observer observes the illumination light with his eyes closed, it becomes “illumination light that makes it easy for an observer with his eyes closed to relax.” can do. By controlling the luminance of the light-emitting surface of the light source in this way, it becomes easier for an observer who closes his eyes to adjust the rhythm of breathing according to the change in luminance of the illumination light, and an observer who closes his eyes It becomes easier to relax.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of a lighting apparatus 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a state in which an observer 30 is observing illumination light 50 from the illumination device 1 while sitting on a chair 40;
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the principle of a lighting control method according to the present invention.
FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a temporal change in luminance of a light emitting surface of a light source 10 based on an illumination control method according to the present invention.
FIG. 5 shows the maximum luminance L of the light emitting surface of the light source 10 based on the illumination control method according to the present invention. _MAX Of an example of time change
FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a temporal change in luminance of a light emitting surface of a light source 10 based on an illumination control method according to the present invention.
FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of an experimental environment
FIG. 8 is a diagram showing experimental results of time difference with respect to luminance ratio
FIG. 9 is a graph showing experimental results of response rate with respect to luminance ratio
FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an experimental result of a subjective evaluation value with respect to a luminance ratio.
FIG. 11 is a diagram showing experimental results of psychological probability with respect to the luminance ratio.
FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a lighting apparatus 2 according to the second embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 13 is a diagram showing experimental results of psychological probabilities with respect to luminance ratios when eyes are opened.
FIG. 14 is a diagram showing experimental results of psychological probabilities with respect to the luminance ratio when the eyes are open.
FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an experimental result of a time difference with respect to a luminance ratio at the time of eye opening.
FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of temporal change in luminance of the light emitting surface of the light source 10 based on the illumination control method according to the present invention in the illumination device 2;
FIG. 17 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a lighting apparatus 3 according to a third embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 18 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a lighting apparatus 4 according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 19 is a perspective view showing a configuration of a lighting apparatus according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 20 is a perspective view showing a configuration of a lighting apparatus according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention.
[Explanation of symbols]
1 Lighting device
1a pedestal
1b Power line
10 Light source
10a Shading surface
10b Light emitting surface
11 Lighting device
12 outlet
13 Lighting equipment
20 Control unit
22 1st light control signal generation part
23 Second dimming signal generator
24 Dimmable lighting device
30 observers
40 chairs
50 Illumination light
60 experimenters
70 switching part
80 Sensing section
90 Brightness ratio adjuster
100 Lighting control device
101 Lighting control device (remote control)

Claims (12)

An illumination device comprising: a light source; and a control unit that controls the light source so that luminance of a light emitting surface of the light source periodically changes.
The control unit turns on the light source in response to a first dimming signal generation unit that generates a first dimming signal and a first dimming signal output from the first dimming signal generation unit. Equipped with a dimming lighting device
The control unit sequentially divides the lighting period of the light source into at least an introduction period and a relaxation period,
In the introduction period, the first dimming signal generation unit has a luminance ratio C1 (= L _MAX1 / L _MIN1 ) of the maximum luminance L _{MAX1 to} the minimum luminance L _MIN1 in one cycle of luminance change of the light emitting surface of the light source. The first dimming signal is generated so as to be substantially constant in the range of 10 <C1 ≦ 100, and in the relaxation period, the minimum luminance L _MIN2 in one cycle of the luminance change of the light emitting surface of the light source. Generating the first dimming signal so that the luminance ratio C2 (= L _MAX2 / L _MIN2 ) of the maximum luminance L _MAX2 with respect to is substantially constant in the range of 6 <C2 ≦ 100. Lighting device. The control unit sequentially divides the lighting period of the light source into at least the introduction period, the transition period, and the relaxation period,
In the transition period, the first dimming signal generation unit has a luminance ratio C3 (= L _MAX3 / L _MIN3 ) of the maximum luminance L _{MAX3 to} the minimum luminance L _MIN3 in one cycle of the luminance change of the light emitting surface of the light source. The lighting device according to claim 1, wherein the first dimming signal is generated so that the luminance ratio C1 gradually decreases from the luminance ratio C1 to the luminance ratio C2. The first dimming signal generating unit, the maximum luminance L _MAX1 in the introduction period, the to be greater than the maximum luminance L _MAX2 in the relaxation period, generating a first dimming signal The lighting device according to claim 2, wherein The first dimming signal generation unit generates the first dimming signal _so that the minimum luminance L _MIN1 in the introduction period is larger than the minimum luminance L _MIN2 in the relaxation period. The lighting device according to claim 3, wherein The control unit includes a second dimming signal generation unit that generates a second dimming signal, the first dimming signal output from the first dimming signal generation unit, and the second dimming signal. A switching unit that switches the second dimming signal output from the optical signal generation unit and outputs the second dimming signal to the dimming lighting device;
At a certain time t, the maximum luminance L _{MAX1 with} respect to the minimum luminance L _MINT1 in one cycle of the luminance change of the light emitting surface of the light source controlled by the first dimming signal output from the first dimming signal generator. Luminance ratio CT1 (= L _MAX1 / L _MINT1 ) of the light source surface of the light source controlled by the second dimming signal output from the second dimming signal generator in one cycle luminance ratio of the maximum luminance _{L MAXT2} to the minimum luminance _{L MIN T 2 CT2} and (= _{L MAXT2 /} L _MINT2), but the lighting device according to claim 1, characterized by satisfying the relation of CT1> CT2.   The lighting device according to claim 5, wherein the luminance ratio CT1 is 1.5 times or more of the luminance ratio CT2. The maximum luminance _{L MAXT1} the lighting device according to claim 5, wherein said maximum luminance _{L MAXT2} equal to or greater than a. The minimum luminance _{L MINT1} the lighting device according to claim 5, wherein the minimum luminance _L equal to or less than the _MINT2.   Further comprising a sensor that senses an open / closed state of a user's eye and transmits information related to the sensed open / closed state of the eye to the switching unit, the switching unit based on information from the sensor. One of the first dimming signal output from the first dimming signal generation unit and the second dimming signal output from the second dimming signal generation unit The lighting device according to claim 5, wherein the lighting device is selected. When the luminance of the light emitting surface of the light source is controlled by one of the first dimming signal and the second dimming signal, the luminance ratio of the maximum luminance to the minimum luminance of the light emitting surface of the light source is It further includes a brightness ratio adjustment unit to adjust,
The luminance ratio adjustment unit, when the luminance ratio is adjusted, a signal indicating that the luminance ratio has been adjusted corresponds to a dimming signal that is not used for controlling the luminance of the light emitting surface of the light source. When the luminance of the light emitting surface of the light source is controlled by the other one, the maximum luminance with respect to the minimum luminance of the light emitting surface of the light source is transmitted to the first dimming signal generating unit or the second dimming signal generating unit. The lighting device according to claim 5, wherein the luminance ratio is adjusted. An illumination control device that controls the light source such that the luminance of the light emitting surface of the light source changes periodically,
The lighting period of the light source is sequentially divided into at least an introduction period and a relaxation period. In the introduction period, the luminance ratio C1 (= L) of the maximum luminance L _{MAX1 to} the minimum luminance L _MIN1 in one cycle of the luminance change of the light emitting surface of the light source. _MAX1 / _{L MIN1)} is to control the light source to be substantially constant in the range of 10 <C1 ≦ 100, in the relaxed period, the minimum luminance _{L MIN2} in one period of the luminance change of the light-emitting surface of the light source The illumination control apparatus is characterized in that the light source is controlled so that a luminance ratio C2 (= L _MAX2 / L _MIN2 ) of the maximum luminance L _MAX2 with respect to is substantially constant in a range of 6 <C2 ≦ 100. An illumination control method for controlling the light source so that the luminance of the light emitting surface of the light source in the illumination control device changes periodically,
The controller of the lighting control device
The lighting period of the light source is sequentially divided into at least an introduction period and a relaxation period. In the introduction period, the luminance ratio C1 (= L) of the maximum luminance L _{MAX1 to} the minimum luminance L _MIN1 in one cycle of the luminance change of the light emitting surface of the light source. _MAX1 / _{L MIN1)} is to control the light source to be substantially constant in the range of 10 <C1 ≦ 100, in the relaxed period, the minimum luminance _{L MIN2} in one period of the luminance change of the light-emitting surface of the light source The illumination control method is characterized in that the light source is controlled such that the luminance ratio C2 (= L _MAX2 / L _MIN2 ) of the maximum luminance L _MAX2 with respect to is substantially constant in a range of 6 <C2 ≦ 100.

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