WO2023074000A1 - Environment control system, environment control method, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

An environment control system (100) is provided with: a lighting control unit (11) for controlling one or more lighting fixtures (1) allocated to each of a plurality of groups (G1); and an acoustic control unit (12) for controlling one or more acoustic devices (2) allocated to each of the plurality of groups (G1). The plurality of groups (G1) include a first group (G11) and a second group (G12). The lighting control unit (11) controls the one or more lighting fixtures (1) of the first group (G11) so that the color temperature thereof is lower than a reference color temperature, and controls the one or more lighting fixtures (1) of the second group (G12) so that the color temperature thereof is higher than the reference color temperature. The acoustic control unit (12) controls the one or more acoustic devices (2) in the first group (G11) so as to play back specific music.

Description

ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL SYSTEM, ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL METHOD, AND PROGRAM

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

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

JP 2014-093204 A

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

An environment control system according to one aspect of the present invention includes a lighting controller and a sound controller. The lighting control unit controls one or more lighting fixtures assigned to each of the plurality of groups. The audio control section controls one or more audio devices assigned to each of the plurality of groups. The plurality of groups includes a first group and a second group. The lighting control unit controls the one or more lighting fixtures in the first group to have a color temperature lower than a reference color temperature, and controls the one or more lighting fixtures in the second group to have a color temperature lower than the reference color temperature. Control to be higher than the color temperature. The sound control unit controls the one or more sound devices in the first group to reproduce specific music.

An environment control method according to one aspect of the present invention includes a lighting control step and a sound control step. The lighting control step controls one or more lighting fixtures assigned to each of the plurality of groups. In the audio control step, one or more audio devices assigned to each of the plurality of groups are controlled. The plurality of groups includes a first group and a second group. In the lighting control step, the one or more lighting fixtures in the first group are controlled to have a color temperature lower than a reference color temperature, and the one or more lighting fixtures in the second group are controlled to have a color temperature lower than the reference color temperature. Control to be higher than the color temperature. In the audio control step, the one or more audio devices in the first group are controlled to reproduce specific music.

A program according to one aspect of the present invention causes one or more processors to execute the environment control method described above.

The environment control system, environment control method, and program of the present invention have the advantage of easily improving user satisfaction.

FIG. 1 is a plan view showing an overview of an office in which an environment control system according to an embodiment is used. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the environment control system according to the embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing results of evaluation experiments for lighting control and acoustic control. FIG. 4 is a flow chart showing an operation example of the environmental control system according to the embodiment. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the environment control system according to Modification 1 of the embodiment. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of an environment control system according to Modification 2 of the embodiment.

Hereinafter, embodiments will be specifically described with reference to the drawings. It should be noted that the embodiments described below are all comprehensive or specific examples. Numerical values, shapes, materials, components, arrangement positions and connection forms of components, steps, 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 constituent elements in the following embodiments, constituent elements not described in independent claims will be described as optional constituent elements.

It should be noted that each figure is a schematic diagram and is not necessarily strictly illustrated. Moreover, in each figure, the same code|symbol is attached|subjected with respect to substantially the same structure, and the overlapping description may be abbreviate|omitted or simplified.

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

The environment control system 100 according to the embodiment is a system for controlling such an environment, which is used in an environment such as an office in which a worker can freely select a work place according to the work they want to do. In the embodiment, it is assumed that the environment control system 100 is used in an ABW (Activity Based Working) type office. Here, "ABW" refers to a working style in which a user (employee, etc.) selects a working place, desk, or the like according to the work content. In the ABW type office, the user can select a relatively quiet place when performing work that requires concentration, and can select a relaxing place such as a sofa when having a meeting. is.

The environment control system 100 may be used not only in an ABW type office but also in a free address type office. May be used in other environments. For example, the environmental control system 100 may be used in educational facilities such as elementary schools, junior high schools, high schools, or universities, may be used in public facilities such as public halls or libraries, or may be used in stores or commercial facilities. may be

The environment control system 100 includes a lighting control unit 11, a sound control unit 12, and a storage unit 13, as shown in FIG. The environment control system 100 only needs to include at least the lighting control unit 11 and the sound control unit 12, and the storage unit 13 does not have to be included.

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

Each lighting fixture 1 is installed on the ceiling of office 3. Of course, each lighting fixture 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 lighting fixture 1 is, for example, a base light as ambient lighting that uniformly illuminates a target space, and is equipped with a light source having a solid-state light-emitting element such as an LED (Light Emitting Diode). . In addition, 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 section 11 .

Each lighting fixture 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 groups G1 is not limited to three, and may be two or four or more. Here, one or more lighting fixtures 1 assigned to the same group G1 are located close to each other. 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 three groups G1 are groups "A", "B", and "C". In this case, one or more lighting fixtures 1 assigned to group "A" illuminate space "α" corresponding to group "A" in office 3 and one or more lighting fixtures 1 assigned to group "B". illuminates space 'β' corresponding to group 'B' in office 3, and the one or more lighting fixtures 1 assigned to group 'C' illuminate space 'γ' corresponding to group 'C' in office 3. Illuminate.

The assignment of each lighting fixture 1 to the group G1 is performed in advance by, for example, the administrator of the environmental control system 100. The administrator uses an information terminal capable of setting the parameters of the environmental control system 100, for example, to execute the above allocation. An information terminal may include, for example, a smart phone, a tablet terminal, or a personal computer.

In addition, in the office 3, adjacent spaces may or may not be partitioned. In the embodiment, it is assumed that office 3 consists of one large room and there are no other rooms separated by walls or fixtures. In this case, the visibility 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 of the spaces may not strictly illuminate only one of the spaces. It is allowed to leak into the other space. That is, in an arbitrary space, the light emitted from the lighting fixture 1 corresponding to the space may be the main illumination light, and even if part of the illumination light leaks from a space different from the space. , should have little effect on the illumination of the space. This is because the influence of part of the illumination light from the space different from the space concerned is limited to the visibility of the user who uses the space or the work environment viewed by the user.

Each sound device 2 is installed on the ceiling of the office 3. Of course, each sound 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 audio device 2 is, for example, an omnidirectional speaker and reproduces content transmitted from the audio control unit 12 . Each acoustic device 2 may be a speaker having directivity, such as a speaker using a parametric speaker, a speaker using ultrasonic waves, or a speaker having a horn-structured housing. It is preferable to use a directional speaker because it is easy to reduce the rate at which part of the sound leaks to other spaces.

Each sound device 2 is assigned to a plurality of groups G1 in the same manner as each lighting device 1. In the example shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, each audio 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. One or more acoustic 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 three groups G1 are groups "A", "B", and "C". In this case, one or more sound devices 2 assigned to group "A" output sound to space "α" corresponding to group "A" in office 3, and one or more sound devices assigned to group "B" The sound device 2 outputs sound to the space "β" corresponding to the group "B" in the office 3, and the one or more sound devices 2 assigned to the group "C" correspond to the group "C" in the office 3. The sound is output to the space “γ” where

The allocation of each sound device 2 to the group G1 is performed in advance by the administrator of the environment control system 100 using an information terminal, similar to the allocation of each lighting fixture 1 to the group G1.

In the embodiment, in two adjacent spaces, the sound output from the acoustic device 2 installed in one space does not have to be output only to one space. It is allowed to leak into space. In other words, in an arbitrary space, it is sufficient that the sound output from the acoustic device 2 corresponding to the space is the main sound. It should not affect the acoustics of the space.

The lighting control unit 11 is capable of communicating with each lighting fixture 1 and controls dimming, toning, or both of each lighting fixture 1 by transmitting a lighting control signal to each lighting fixture 1 . In other words, the lighting controller 11 controls one or more lighting fixtures 1 assigned to multiple groups G1. In the embodiment, the lighting controller 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. Communication between the lighting control unit 11 and each lighting fixture 1 may be wired communication or wireless communication, and the communication standard is not particularly limited. Moreover, the lighting control signals do not have to be transmitted strictly at the same time, and the time difference between transmission of the plurality of lighting control signals is preferably within 60 minutes, more preferably within 30 minutes, and even more preferably within 1 minute. If the time difference is within 60 minutes, it is preferable because it saves labor compared to manually moving fixtures or furniture to change the environment of the space.

Further, the lighting control signals transmitted from the lighting control unit 11 to the one or more lighting fixtures 1 assigned to the same group G1 need not be strictly the same, as long as the effect of the space is limited. Errors in control content are allowed. For example, the tolerances are ±500K for color temperature and ±20% for dimming ratio.

The sound control unit 12 is capable of communicating with each sound device 2, and causes each sound device 2 to reproduce content by transmitting a sound control signal (including content to be reproduced) to each sound device 2. Control. In other words, the sound control unit 12 controls one or more sound devices 2 assigned to multiple groups G1. In the embodiment, the sound control section 12 transmits the same sound control signal to one or more sound devices 2 assigned to the same group G1. That is, the sound control unit 12 controls each sound device 2 for each group G1. Communication between the sound control unit 12 and each sound device 2 may be wired communication or wireless communication, and the communication standard is not particularly limited.

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

The storage unit 13 is a storage device that stores information (computer programs, etc.) necessary for each of the lighting control unit 11 and the sound control unit 12 to perform control. The storage unit 13 is implemented by, for example, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), but may be implemented by a semiconductor memory, and known electronic information storage means can be used without particular limitation. The storage unit 13 stores information about the lighting schedule referred to by the lighting control unit 11 and the sound schedule referred to by the sound control unit 12 .

The lighting control unit 11, the sound control unit 12, and the storage unit 13 may all be mounted on the same substrate or housed in the same housing. The substrate or housing may be attached to the ceiling, walls, floor, or fixtures/furniture such as desks of the office 3 . In this case, the environment control system 100 can be downsized, which is preferable.

[Control in first group and second group]
Here, in the embodiment, the multiple 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 number of second groups G12 may be one, or two or more. The first group G11 and the second group G12 may be determined, for example, by an administrator of the environment control system 100 using an information terminal, may be determined according to a schedule as described later, or may be determined as described later. It may be determined based on information obtained by the unit 14 (first obtaining unit, second obtaining unit, or third obtaining unit). The lighting control unit 11 controls the one or more lighting fixtures 1 in the first group G11 and the one or more lighting fixtures 1 in the second group G12 as follows.

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

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, the lower left space corresponding to the first group G11 in the office 3 is a space where the color temperature of the illumination light is lower than the reference color temperature, and the upper right space corresponding to the second group G12 in the office 3 is , the color temperature of the illumination light is higher than the reference color temperature. In FIG. 1, the dot hatching density indicates the level of the color temperature. The lower the dot hatching density, the higher the color temperature, and the higher the dot hatching density, the lower the color temperature.

Note that, in the embodiment, the lighting control unit 11 selects one or more lighting fixtures 1 for the group G1 which is not assigned to either the first group G11 or the second group G12, and the color temperature is set to the reference color temperature. Control so that Therefore, in the example shown in FIG. 1, the color temperature of the illumination light in the lower right space of the office 3 is the reference color temperature.

Here, the zoning effect means, for example, a perceived division of space, and may include an effect that makes it easier for the user to recognize that multiple spaces are different from each other in terms of appearance. In addition, the zoning effect may include an effect of facilitating a change in user's behavior or flow line as intended by zoning, with the user's recognition. For example, assume that an arbitrary space is zoned with the intention of making it a space where the user can easily perform tasks that require concentration. In this case, it can be said that the zoning effect was exhibited if the user who saw the space used the space mainly for the purpose of performing work requiring concentration.

In addition, the zoning effect includes the subjective effect/feeling of the user, or the effect that shows the tendency of the physiological/psychological/biological effect of the user in accordance with the gist of the zoning when the user actually uses the zoning space. obtain. For example, it is assumed that an arbitrary space is zoned with the intention of becoming a space that facilitates work that requires concentration, and that the user uses the space. In this case, if the user can feel that he/she was able to concentrate by using the space, or if indicators/data suggesting that the user was concentrating as a psychological/biological effect, then 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 fixtures or furniture. Therefore, it is possible to easily improve the design of the space, and to change the layout of the office 3 instantaneously through lighting control such as dimming and toning, so-called active zoning. That is, when zoning is performed by the above lighting control, the change of control parameters for dimming and toning in each space is completed in several seconds, for example. In this case, as a result, it is possible to change the layout of the office 3 in a few seconds. Here, if the layout of the office 3 is to be changed by manually moving fixtures or furniture, it takes 60 minutes, several hours, one day, or even several days. From this point of view, the zoning by the lighting control described above can have a very remarkable effect.

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

In the embodiment, the reference color temperature is 4000K. That is, the lighting control unit 11 controls the one or more lighting fixtures 1 in the first group G11 so that the color temperature of the illumination light in the space corresponding to the first group G11 is lower than 4000 K, that is, warm-colored lighting. to control. The color temperature of the illumination light in the space corresponding to the first group G11 is preferably 2500K to 4000K, for example. On the other hand, the lighting control unit 11 controls the one or more lighting fixtures 1 in the second group G12 so that the color temperature of the illumination light in the space corresponding to the second group G12 is higher than 4000 K, that is, the lighting is cold-colored. to control. The color temperature of the illumination light in the space corresponding to the second group G12 is preferably 5000K to 7500K, for example.

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

In order to enhance the zoning effect, 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 are separated from each other. The difference is preferably significant enough to be visually or potentially perceptible to the user. 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 1000 K or more, more preferably. 2000K or more.

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

Specific music may include songs or songs played by musical instruments. Moreover, the specific music is preferably music that can be expected to have the same zoning effect as the zoning effect that can be expected from illumination light. This is because, by doing so, it becomes easier to produce an effect that is more than a simple addition of the zoning effect that can be expected from the illumination light and the zoning effect that can be expected from the music, and it has an unexpected and favorable synergistic effect. This is because it becomes easier. This point will be explained in detail in [Verification of zoning effect] described later.

In the embodiment, the specific music is music that gives the user a relaxing effect. For example, specific music is music in which the parasympathetic nerves of the user tend to be dominant over the sympathetic nerves. More specifically, the specific music as music that gives the user a relaxing effect is music classified as jazz or bossa nova. The zoning effect of specific music will be described in detail in [Verification of zoning effect] described later.

It should be noted that the music does not need to have a clear melody or melody throughout, and may be composed of performances by non-tone instruments such as percussion instruments.

By controlling in this way, in the space corresponding to the first group G11, compared with the case where only the illumination light from one or more lighting fixtures 1 is provided, a space in which a further relaxing effect can be expected is provided. can do.

[Control according to schedule]
Here, in the embodiment, the lighting control unit 11 and the sound control unit 12 perform their respective controls according to a preset schedule, except when there is a real-time instruction from 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 a plurality of groups according to a preset lighting schedule. Also, the audio control unit 12 controls one or more audio devices 2 in each of the plurality of groups according to a preset audio schedule. A lighting schedule and a sound schedule are set by an administrator of the environmental control system 100, for example.

A lighting schedule is, for example, a schedule from working hours to closing hours on an arbitrary day, and is divided into multiple time zones. In each of the plurality of time zones, each of at least two groups G1 among the plurality of groups G1 is assigned to either the first group G11 or the second group G12.

The sound schedule, like the lighting schedule, is, for example, a schedule from working hours to closing hours on any given day, and is divided into multiple time zones. In each of the plurality of time zones, each of at least two 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 sound control unit 12 control according to the lighting schedule and the sound schedule so that the occupancy of the first group G11 in all groups G1 is lower than the occupancy of the second group G12 in the morning. do. In addition, the lighting control unit 11 and the sound control unit 12 control according to the lighting schedule and the sound schedule so that the occupancy rate of the first group G11 in all groups G1 is higher than the occupancy rate of the second group G12 from the afternoon. do. By controlling in this way, it is easy for the user to concentrate in the morning, that is, to provide a lot of space for improving the work efficiency of the user, and in the afternoon, it is easy for the user to relax, that is, the user can communicate with other users. It is possible to provide a lot of space where it is easy to plan.

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

When controlling according to a schedule, the first group G11 and the second group G12 do not have to exist at the same time, for example, in a predetermined time slot. 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 the groups G1 may be assigned to the second group G12 in a time period close to the closing time. In this case, the user is more likely to be exposed to a warm-colored lighting environment, so that the user is more likely to be directly or subconsciously aware that the end of work is approaching. expected to be effective.

[Verification of zoning effect]
Here, the inventors of the present application conducted the following experiment in order to verify the zoning effect by combining color temperature and specific music. That is, a plurality of subjects (here, 10 people) are gathered in the experiment space (here, one office room), and each subject is given a predetermined task (here, a personal computer) while changing the conditions of the experiment space. 1 minute of typing work). Then, a questionnaire was given to each subject about their impressions of the experimental space for each condition of the experimental space.

Multiple desks are installed in the experiment space. Then, each subject performed typing work using a personal computer (here, a laptop personal computer) at one of the desks. In addition, multiple base lights are installed on the ceiling of the experimental space to uniformly illuminate the entire experimental space. In addition, each desk is equipped with a spotlight for locally illuminating the corresponding desk.

The conditions of the experimental space are a combination of one of the four lighting conditions and one of the four sound conditions. That is, the experiment was conducted for 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 experimental space is 800 lx. (A2) is to control each base light so that the color temperature of the illumination light is 4000 K and the illuminance of the experimental space is 800 lx. (A3) is to control each base light so that the color temperature of the illumination light is 5000 K and the illuminance of the experimental space is 800 lx. (A4) is to control each spotlight so that the color temperature of the illumination light is 4000K and the illuminance at the center of each desk is 1200lx.

The sound conditions are the following four conditions (B1) to (B4). (B1) is to make the space of the experiment object soundless, that is, make it silent. (B2) is to let the sound of a babbling brook (running water sound) flow in the space to be tested. (B3) is to let jazz flow in the space to be tested. (B4) is to play music for meditation in the space to be tested. Meditation music is music that is played during meditation or yoga, and is so-called healing music.

In the questionnaire for each subject, we obtained answers about 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 of the experiment target is (a) very like, (b) quite like, (c) somewhat like, (d) neither, (e) somewhat dislike, (f) Each subject was asked to answer whichever of the 7 grades of dislike (g) strongly dislike.

Then, the inventors of the present application quantitatively evaluated the conditions of the experimental space based on the results of questionnaires for each subject. Specifically, the seven-level evaluation obtained in the questionnaire is treated as an equal interval scale, and the evaluations of (g), (f), ..., (a) are "7", "6", ..., "1 ” scalar value. Then, an evaluation function for evaluating the space of the experiment object is defined as the following equation (1), and the following equation (2) using the evaluation function is used to score for each condition of the space of the experiment object V(m) was obtained.

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

In the following formula (2), the score V(m) is corrected to be "0" when the space subject to the experiment does not have a particularly good or bad impression, that is, when the evaluation is of (d) above. In order to do so, "4" is subtracted. Therefore, the maximum score V(m) is "3" and the minimum score V(m) is "-3". For example, if the score V(m) is the maximum value, it indicates that all the subjects have the impression that they "very much like" the space to be tested. On the other hand, if the score V(m) is the minimum value, it indicates that all the subjects have the impression of "extremely disliked" the experimental space.

The results of the above experiment will be explained using FIG. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing part of the results of evaluation experiments for lighting control and acoustic control. In FIG. 3, the vertical axis represents the score V(m) for the experimental space. In FIG. 3, the horizontal axis represents the conditions of the experimental space. Specifically, on the horizontal axis of FIG. 3, "4000K" represents illumination condition (A1), and "3000K" represents illumination condition (A2). On the horizontal axis of FIG. 3, "silence" represents the sound condition (B1), and "jazz" represents the sound condition (B3).

In FIG. 3, the score V(m) for the combination of "silence" and "4000K" is "-0.1", whereas the score V(m) for the combination of "silence" and "3000K" is "+0.3". That is, it was confirmed that the score V(m) increased by lowering the color temperature of the illumination light in the experimental space, but the amount of change was relatively small.

On the other hand, in FIG. 3, the score V(m) for the combination of "silence" and "4000K" is "-0.1", whereas the score V(m) for the combination of "jazz" and "3000K" is m) is "+1.2". In other words, by lowering the color temperature of the illumination light in the experimental space and playing jazz in the experimental space, the score V (m) is significantly higher than when only the color temperature is changed. increase was confirmed.

It should be noted that even when the color temperature of the illumination light in the experimental space is lowered, when sounds other than jazz (here, the sound of running water or music for meditation) are played, the score V(m) is A decrease in the score V(m) was confirmed rather than an increase.

Based on the results of the above experiments, the inventors of the present application have found that only the color temperature of the illumination light is changed by making the color temperature of the illumination light lower than the reference color temperature and by reproducing specific music such as jazz. In comparison, it is easier to produce an effect that is more than the simple sum of the zoning effect that can be expected from illumination light and the zoning effect that can be expected from music, and it is expected that an unexpected favorable synergistic effect can be easily produced. I got the knowledge that.

[motion]
An example of the operation of the environment control system 100 according to the embodiment will be described below. FIG. 4 is a flow chart showing an operation example of the environmental control system 100 according to the embodiment. In the following, we assume that both the lighting schedule and the sound schedule are preset. Further, until the control timing according to the lighting schedule and the sound schedule arrives, the lighting control unit 11 controls all the lighting fixtures of the group G1 so that the color temperature of the illumination light becomes the reference color temperature. 1 and that the acoustic control unit 12 does not perform 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 in the first group G11 and each lighting fixture 1 in the second group G12 according to the lighting schedule (S2). As a result, the color temperature of the illumination light is lower than the reference color temperature in the space corresponding to the first group G11, and the color temperature of the illumination light is higher than the reference color temperature in the space corresponding to the second group G12. . Processing S2 and processing S5, which will be described later, correspond to the lighting control step ST1 of the environment control method. Also, the sound control unit 12 controls each sound device 2 of the first group G11 according to the sound schedule (S3). As a result, the specific music is reproduced in the space corresponding to the first group G11. Processing S3 and processing S6, which will be described later, correspond to the sound control step ST2 of the environment control method.

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

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

[advantage]
Advantages of the environmental control system 100 according to the embodiment will be described below. The environment control system 100 according to the embodiment simultaneously provides the user with two or more spaces controlled to have different environments, namely, a space corresponding to the first group G11 and a space corresponding to the second group G12. It is possible to In other words, the environmental control system 100 according to the embodiment can simultaneously provide the user with two or more spaces that are controlled to have different zoning effects. That is, the space corresponding to the first group G11 provides an environment in which the user can easily relax, and the space corresponding to the second group G12 provides an environment in which the user can easily concentrate. Furthermore, the space corresponding to the first group G11 is an environment in which the user can more easily relax by playing the specific music compared to when the specific music is not played, and corresponds to the second group G12. It is easier for users to recognize the difference from the space where

Therefore, when the user wants to work in a relaxed state, or wants to communicate with other users, the user moves to the space corresponding to the first group G11. For example, when the user wants to concentrate on work or when he/she wants to avoid communication with other users, the user moves to the space corresponding to the second group G12. As described above, in the environment control system 100 according to the embodiment, the user can select and use the desired environment from two or more spaces that are controlled to be different environments. There is an advantage that it becomes easy to stay in the desired environment, and the user's satisfaction is easily improved.

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

[Modification 1 of Embodiment]
The environment control system 100 according to Modification 1 of the embodiment differs from the environment control system 100 according to the embodiment in that an acquisition unit 14 is provided as shown in FIG. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the environment control system 100 according to Modification 1 of the embodiment.

The acquisition unit 14 acquires information about the user. Examples of user-related information acquired by the acquisition unit 14 and examples of control based on the acquired information are listed below. It should be noted that the environment control system 100 may execute at least one of the following first to third examples, and may execute a plurality of examples.

In the first example, the acquisition unit 14 acquires the user's location information. That is, in the first example, the acquisition unit 14 can also be said to be a "first acquisition unit". Here, the position information may be any information representing the user's position in the space (office 3 in this case) controlled by the environment control system 100. Information representing the user's position in a place other than the space is It does not have to be included.

The acquisition unit 14 can acquire the location information of the user by acquiring the detection result transmitted from a motion sensor such as an infrared sensor installed in the office 3, for example. That is, when a detection result indicating that a person exists within the detection range is obtained from a certain human sensor, the acquisition unit 14 determines whether the user in the office 3 Location information can be obtained.

In addition, the acquisition unit 14 acquires the detection result from an indoor position information detection system using BLE (Bluetooth (registered trademark) Low Energy) or the like, which is adopted in the office 3, for example, to obtain the user's position in the office 3. Information can be obtained.

Further, the acquisition unit 14 acquires an image of the office 3 captured by a camera installed in the office 3, for example, and performs appropriate image analysis processing on this image, thereby obtaining location information of the user in the office 3. It is possible to obtain

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

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, assume that at any given time the space corresponding to the first group G11 is more crowded than the space corresponding to the second group G12. In this case, the lighting control unit 11 and the sound control unit 12 determine the first groups G11 and the second groups G12 so as to increase the number of the first groups G11. As a result, since the floor area of the space corresponding to the first group G11 is increased, it is possible to eliminate congestion.

As described above, in the first example, the first group G11 and the second group G12 are determined based on the user's position information. It is possible to adjust the balance of the occupancy. This aspect is preferable for the owner of the office 3 because it makes it easier to provide an office environment with a high degree of 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 also be said to be a "second acquisition unit". Here, the schedule information may be any information that indicates the schedule of the user to stay in the space controlled by the environment control system 100 (office 3 in this case), and the schedule of the user to stay in a place other than the space. It does not have to contain information representing The schedule information includes, for example, the user's work start time and work end time.

For example, when the user inputs the schedule information using an information terminal, it is transmitted to and stored in the database that manages the schedule information. 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 9:00 am is less than the number of users whose work start time is 10:00 am. In this case, the lighting control unit 11 and the sound control unit 12 reduce the number of the second groups G12 from 9:00 am to 10:00 am, and increase the number of the second groups G12 after 10:00 am. A first group G11 and a second group G12 are determined. As a result, it is possible to appropriately provide the user with a space corresponding to the second group G12, in which it is easy to perform work that requires concentration in the morning, when work is easy to progress.

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

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

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

In addition, the acquisition unit 14 can acquire preference information by analyzing the tendency of which space the user tends to stay in based on the user's location information through appropriate processing. In this case, it is unnecessary for the user to input 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, assume that the number of users who prefer the space corresponding to the first group G11 is greater 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 sound control unit 12 control the first group G11 and A second group G12 is determined. This makes it easier to avoid crowding a space preferred by many users.

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

[Modification 2 of Embodiment]
The environment control system 100 according to Modification 2 of the embodiment differs from the environment control system 100 according to the embodiment in that a notification unit 15 is provided as shown in FIG. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of an environment control system 100 according to Modification 2 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 generates a map that is a plan view of the office 3 and indicates whether each group 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. Accordingly, by checking the map received by the information terminal, the user can identify the space corresponding to the first group G11 (easy-to-relax space) and the space corresponding to the second group G12 (easy-to-concentrate space). It is possible to grasp where the office 3 is.

In addition, 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. Thereby, 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. Note that the projector may project the map onto 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 representing the status of the first group G11 and the second group G12, or voice content representing the status of the first group G11 and the second group G12. may Of course, the notification unit 15 may appropriately combine the above map, message, and audio content and notify the user.

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

[Other Modifications]
In the embodiment, the one or more audio devices 2 assigned to the second group G12 are not reproducing sound, but may reproduce sound. In this case, the type of sound to be reproduced is preferably different from the specific music reproduced by the one or more audio devices 2 assigned to the first group G11, for example. In other words, in this case, the one or more sound devices 2 assigned to the second group G12 preferably reproduce sounds such that the difference between the first group G11 and the second group G12 is more perceptible to the user. .

In the embodiment, each lighting fixture 1 employs a base light as ambient lighting, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, some of the plurality of lighting fixtures 1 may employ spotlights as task lights. That is, each lighting device 1 irradiates light to such an extent that at least the space corresponding to the first group G11 and the space corresponding to the second group G12 can be recognized as mutually different spaces by the user. Just do it.

In the embodiment, one or more acoustic devices 2 are assigned to each of all groups G1, but this is not the only option. For example, at least one or more audio devices 2 need only be assigned to the group G1 that can be the first group G11, and no audio device 2 need be assigned to the group G1 that cannot be the first group G11.

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

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

In the embodiment, the environment control system 100 targets one office 3, but is not limited to this. For example, the environment 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 lighting device 1 and the sound device 2 are not included in the environmental control system 100, but at least one of the lighting device 1 and the sound device 2 is included in the environmental control system 100. good too.

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

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

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

Also, each component may be realized by hardware. For example, each component may be a circuit (or integrated circuit). These circuits may form one circuit as a whole, or may be separate circuits. These circuits may be general-purpose circuits or dedicated circuits.

In addition, general or specific aspects of the present invention may be implemented in a system, apparatus, method, integrated circuit, computer program, or recording medium such as a computer-readable CD-ROM. Also, any combination of systems, devices, methods, integrated circuits, computer programs and recording media may be implemented.

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

In addition, forms obtained by applying various modifications to each embodiment that a person skilled in the art can think of, or realized by arbitrarily combining the constituent elements and functions of each embodiment without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Also included in the present invention.

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

According to the environment control system 100 as described above, it is possible to provide the user with two or more spaces that are controlled to have mutually different environments. There is an advantage that the degree is easy to improve.

Also, for example, in the environment control system 100, the reference color temperature may be 4000K.

According to the environment control system 100 as described above, it is possible to provide a space in which the user can relatively easily relax in the space corresponding to the first group G11. In addition, in the space corresponding to the second group G12, it is possible to provide a space where users can concentrate relatively easily.

Also, for example, in the environment control system 100, the specific music may be music that gives the user a relaxing effect.

According to such an environment control system 100, in the space corresponding to the first group G11, a further relaxing effect can be expected compared to the case where only illumination light from one or more lighting fixtures 1 is provided. space can be provided.

Also, for example, in the environment control system 100, the specific music may be music classified as jazz or bossa nova.

According to such an environment control system 100, in the space corresponding to the first group G11, a further relaxing effect can be expected compared to the case where only illumination light from one or more lighting fixtures 1 is provided. space can be provided.

Also, for example, in the environment control system 100, the lighting control unit 11 may control one or more lighting fixtures 1 in each of the groups G1 according to a preset lighting schedule. Furthermore, the audio control unit 12 may control one or more audio devices 2 in each of the groups G1 according to a preset audio schedule.

According to the environment control system 100 as described above, it is possible to provide the user with a space in which a zoning effect can be expected according to the administrator's request, without the administrator of the environment control system 100 giving instructions in real time.

Also, for example, the environment control system 100 may further include an acquisition unit (first acquisition unit) 14 that acquires the user's location information. The first group G<b>11 and the second group G<b>12 may be determined based on the position information acquired by the acquisition unit (first acquisition unit) 14 .

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

Also, for example, the environment control system 100 may further include an acquisition unit (second acquisition unit) 14 that acquires the user's schedule information. The first group G<b>11 and the second group G<b>12 may be determined based on the schedule information acquired by the acquisition unit (second acquisition unit) 14 .

According to such an environment 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 user's schedule.

Also, for example, the environment control system 100 may further include an acquisition unit (third acquisition unit) 14 that acquires user preference information. 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 environment control system 100, it is possible to adjust the balance of the occupancy rate of each of the first group G11 and the second group G12 according to user's preference.

Also, for example, the environment control system 100 may further include a notification unit 15 that notifies the user of the status of at least the first group G11 and the second group G12.

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

In addition, the environment control method includes a lighting control step ST1 of controlling one or more lighting fixtures 1 assigned to each of the plurality of groups G1, and controlling one or more sound devices 2 assigned to each of the plurality of groups G1. and a sound control step ST2 for performing. The multiple groups G1 include a first group G11 and a second group G12. In the lighting control step ST1, the one or more lighting fixtures 1 in the first group G11 are controlled so that the color temperature is lower than the reference color temperature, and the one or more lighting fixtures 1 in the second group G12 are controlled so that the color temperature is lower than the reference color temperature. Control so that it is higher than the temperature. At the sound control step ST2, one or more sound devices 2 in the first group G11 are controlled to reproduce specific music.

According to such an environment control method, it is possible to provide the user with two or more spaces that are controlled so as to have conflicting environments, so that the user can easily stay in the environment that he/she desires, and the user's satisfaction level can be improved. has the advantage of being easier to improve.

Also, for example, the program causes one or more processors to execute the environment control method described above.

According to such a program, it is possible to provide the user with two or more spaces that are controlled to have different environments, so that the user can easily stay in the desired environment, and the user's satisfaction is improved. It has the advantage of being easy.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 100 Environmental control system 11 Lighting control unit 12 Sound control unit 14 Acquisition unit 15 Notification unit 1 Lighting fixture 2 Sound device G1 Group G11 First group G12 Second group ST1 Lighting control step ST2 Sound control step

Claims (11)

1. a lighting control unit that controls one or more lighting fixtures assigned to each of the plurality of groups;
   a sound control unit that controls one or more sound devices assigned to each of the plurality of groups;
   The plurality of groups includes a first group and a second group;
   The lighting control unit controls the one or more lighting fixtures in the first group to have a color temperature lower than a reference color temperature, and controls the one or more lighting fixtures in the second group to have a color temperature lower than the reference color temperature. Control to be higher than the color temperature,
   The sound control unit controls the one or more sound devices in the first group to play specific music.
   Environmental control system.
2. The reference color temperature is 4000K,
   The environmental control system of claim 1.
3. The specific music is music that gives the user a relaxing effect,
   The environment control system according to claim 1 or 2.
4. The specific music is music classified as jazz or bossa nova,
   The environmental control system according to claim 3.
5. 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 audio control unit controls the one or more audio devices in each of the plurality of groups according to a preset audio schedule.
   The environmental control system according to any one of claims 1-4.
6. further comprising a first acquisition unit that acquires location information of the user;
   The first group and the second group are determined based on the position information acquired by the first acquisition unit,
   The environment control system according to any one of claims 1-5.
7. Further comprising a second acquisition unit that acquires 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 1-6.
8. further comprising 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 1-7.
9. Further comprising a notification unit that notifies 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 1-8.
10. a lighting control step of controlling one or more lighting fixtures assigned to each of the plurality of groups;
    an audio control step of controlling one or more audio devices assigned to each of the plurality of groups;
    The plurality of groups includes a first group and a second group;
    In the lighting control step, the one or more lighting fixtures in the first group are controlled to have a color temperature lower than a reference color temperature, and the one or more lighting fixtures in the second group are controlled to have a color temperature lower than the reference color temperature. Control to be higher than the color temperature,
    In the audio control step, the one or more audio devices in the first group are controlled to reproduce specific music.
    Environmental control method.
11. to one or more processors;
    executing the environment control method according to claim 10;
    program.

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