JP7584087B2 - Lighting control system, lighting control method, and program - Google Patents

Description

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

Patent Document 1 discloses a lighting control device. This lighting control device divides the lighting area into a number of areas in advance, and determines whether each of these areas is a stay area where people are staying or a non-stay area based on the speed of people's movements in the lighting area detected by a human body information detection means. Then, based on the determination result, the lighting control means performs lighting control on the lighting fixtures arranged in the divided areas.

JP 2013-109876 A

The present invention provides a lighting control system, lighting control method, and program that can easily switch a given space between various environments.

A lighting control system according to one aspect of the present invention includes a lighting control unit that controls the color temperature of light emitted by a lighting load installed in a specified space. The lighting load includes a first lighting load and a second lighting load. The lighting control unit controls the first lighting load in a range in which the light color of the first lighting load is white, and controls the second lighting load in a range in which the light color of the second lighting load is a color other than white.

A lighting control method according to one aspect of the present invention includes a lighting control step of controlling the color temperature of light emitted by a lighting load provided in a specified space. The lighting load has a first lighting load and a second lighting load. In the lighting control step, the first lighting load is controlled within a range in which the light color of the first lighting load is white, and the second lighting load is controlled within a range in which the light color of the second lighting load is a color other than white.

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

The lighting control system, lighting control method, and program of the present invention have the advantage that a given space can be easily switched between various environments.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of a lighting control system according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a predetermined space in which the lighting control system according to the embodiment is used. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a light color of a second lighting load in the lighting control system according to the embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a light color of a second lighting load in a first control example of a lighting control system according to an embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a light color of a second lighting load in a second control example of the lighting control system according to the embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of the light color of the second lighting load in the third control example of the lighting control system according to the embodiment. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the lighting control system according to the embodiment. FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing an example of installation of lighting loads in a predetermined space in which a lighting control system according to an embodiment is used. FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing another example of installation of lighting loads in a predetermined space in which a lighting control system according to an embodiment is used.

The following describes the embodiments in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the embodiments described below are all comprehensive or specific examples. The numerical values, shapes, materials, components, component placement and connection forms, steps, and order of steps shown in the following embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the present invention. Furthermore, among the components in the following embodiments, components that are not described in an independent claim are described as optional components.

Note that each figure is a schematic diagram and is not necessarily a precise illustration. In addition, in each figure, the same reference numerals are used for substantially the same configurations, and duplicate explanations may be omitted or simplified.

(Embodiment)
[Specified space]
First, a description will be given of a predetermined space 4 in which a lighting control system 100 according to an embodiment is used. Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of a lighting control system 100 according to an embodiment. Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a predetermined space 4 in which a lighting control system 100 according to an embodiment is used.

The lighting control system 100 according to the embodiment is used in a predetermined space 4, such as an office, where a user U1 works, and is a system for controlling the environment in such a predetermined space 4. In other words, the predetermined space 4 may include a work space where the user U1 works. In the embodiment, it is assumed that the lighting control system 100 is used in an ABW (Activity Based Working) type office 3, where the user can freely select a work location depending on the work he or she wants to do. Here, "ABW" refers to a way of working in which the user U1 (employee, etc.) selects a place or desk to work at depending on the work content. In an ABW type office, the user U1 can select a relatively quiet place when performing work that requires concentration, and can select a relaxing place such as a sofa when holding a meeting.

The lighting control system 100 may be used not only in ABW type offices, but also in free address type offices, or in other spaces where user U1 can freely select a work location depending on the work he or she wants to do. For example, the lighting control system 100 may be used in educational facilities such as elementary schools, junior high schools, high schools, or universities, in public facilities such as community centers or libraries, or in stores or commercial facilities.

The specified space 4 in which the lighting control system 100 is used is not limited to a space in which the user U1 can freely select a work location as described above, but may be used, for example, in an office where the user U1's work location is fixed. Furthermore, the specified space 4 in which the lighting control system 100 is used is not limited to a work space in which the user U1 performs work, but may be a space in which the user U1 takes a rest.

In the example shown in FIG. 2, the office 3 has multiple (four in this example) designated spaces 4. Each designated space 4 is provided with furniture 5 for one or more users U1 to work on. In the example shown in FIG. 2, the work performed by the user U1 is performed using an information terminal 6 owned by the user U1, such as a laptop personal computer. The information terminal 6 may be a desktop personal computer, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or the like. In the example shown in FIG. 2, the furniture 5 includes a desk 51 and one or more chairs 52.

The specified space 4 is a space in which one or more users U1 exist. In the example shown in FIG. 2, adjacent specified spaces 4 are not separated, but may be separated, for example, by walls or furniture. As an example, the office 3 may be composed of multiple rooms separated by walls or furniture. In this case, the specified space 4 may be each of the multiple rooms, or may be a part of the multiple rooms.

[Lighting load]
A lighting load 2 is installed in the specified space 4. In the embodiment, the lighting load 2 is installed on the ceiling of the specified space 4. Of course, the lighting load 2 may be installed not only on the ceiling of the specified space 4, but also on a wall, a floor, or a fixture such as a desk. The lighting load 2 provides a lighting environment in the specified space 4 by illuminating the specified space 4 with illumination light. The parameters of the lighting environment may include, for example, the illuminance, color temperature (light color), or light distribution of the illumination light.

The lighting load 2 installed in the specified space 4 has a first lighting load 21 and a second lighting load 22. In the example shown in FIG. 2, a plurality of (here, eight) first lighting loads 21 are installed on the ceiling of the office 3. In the example shown in FIG. 2, a plurality of (here, nine) second lighting loads 22 are installed on the ceiling of the office 3. Here, the office 3 is evenly divided into four specified spaces 4, and a plurality of (here, two) first lighting loads 21 and a plurality of (here, four) second lighting loads 22 are installed in each specified space 4. Note that some of the second lighting loads 22 are shared by multiple specified spaces 4. As an example, the second lighting load 22 located in the center of the ceiling of the office 3 shown in FIG. 2 is shared by four specified spaces 4.

The first lighting load 21 is a light source whose color can be adjusted at least within a range in which the light color is white. In other words, the first lighting load 21 may be a light source whose color can be adjusted to a light color other than white by the lighting control unit 12 described later as long as the light color can be adjusted within a range in which the light color is white.

The "white color range" here refers to the range of white colors defined, for example, in "JIS Z 9112," "ANSI C78377-2015, American National Standard for Electric Lamps - Specifications for the Chromaticity of Solid-state Lighting Products, June 17 2015," or "IEC60081:1997." For example, when referring to "JIS Z 9112," the "white color range" refers to the range in which the correlated color temperature is 2700K to 6000K. In addition, the "white color range" includes daylight, cool white, white, warm white, and incandescent white.

In the embodiment, the first lighting load 21 is a spotlight serving as a task light, and is equipped with a light source having a solid-state light-emitting element such as an LED (Light Emitting Diode). In other words, the first lighting load 21 has a concentrated light distribution characteristic. Note that the first lighting load 21 is not limited to a spotlight, and may be, for example, a stand light, a downlight, or a universal downlight. The solid-state light-emitting element used in the first lighting load 21 is not limited to an LED, and may be an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) element, etc. Furthermore, the first lighting load 21 is not limited to a light source having a solid-state light-emitting element, and may be a fluorescent lamp, etc.

The second lighting load 22 is a light source whose color can be adjusted at least to a range other than white. In other words, the second lighting load 22 may be a light source whose color can be adjusted to white by the lighting control unit 12 described later, as long as the light color can be adjusted to a range other than white.

The "range of colors other than white" here refers to the range of colors other than white defined in "JIS Z 8110." For example, when referring to "JIS Z 8110," the light colors included in the "range of colors other than white" are blue, bluish white, purplish white, light blue-green, blue-purple, light blue, light blue-purple, light yellow-red, orange-pink, light yellow, light pink, yellowish white, red, pink, yellow, yellow-green, light yellow-green, green, light green, greenish white, purple, blue-green, red-purple, and purplish pink.

The range in which the second lighting load 22 can be adjusted is shown in FIG. 3. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the light color of the second lighting load 22 in the lighting control system 100 according to the embodiment. FIG. 3 shows a chromaticity diagram in the XYZ color system recommended in 1931 by the International Commission on Illumination (Commission Internationale de l'Eclairage, abbreviated as CIE) (see "JIS Z 8701"). In FIG. 3, "x" and "y" both indicate the chromaticity coordinates of the XYZ color system according to "JIS Z 8701". In the chromaticity diagram shown in FIG. 3, the hatched range indicates the range in which the second lighting load 22 can be adjusted.

In the embodiment, the second lighting load 22 is a base light as ambient lighting that uniformly illuminates the target space, and is equipped with a light source having a solid-state light-emitting element such as an LED. In other words, the second lighting load 22 has a diffuse light distribution characteristic. Note that the solid-state light-emitting element used in the second lighting load 22 is not limited to an LED, but may be an organic EL element or the like. Also, the second lighting load 22 is not limited to a light source having a solid-state light-emitting element, but may be a fluorescent lamp or the like.

The light color of the lighting load 2 may be represented by a measurement result (correlated color temperature) on the light-emitting surface of the lighting load 2 or in the vicinity of the light-emitting surface, or may be represented by a setting value set by the lighting control unit 12, which will be described later. The setting value may be allowed an error of ±200 to 300 K with respect to the measurement result.

Here, the light irradiation area of the lighting load 2 in the specified space 4 will be described. In the specified space 4, the first lighting load 21 is installed so as to irradiate light onto the top surface of the desk 51. Here, the top surface of the desk 51 is an area where, for example, a user U1 works using an information terminal 6. In other words, the top surface of the desk 51 is the usage area 41 of the user U1. That is, the first lighting load 21 is installed in the specified space 4 so as to irradiate light onto the usage area 41 of the user U1 in the specified space 4.

In addition, in the specified space 4, each second lighting load 22 is installed so as to irradiate light not only onto the top surface of the desk 51, but also onto the periphery of the top surface of the desk 51. In other words, the multiple second lighting loads 22 are provided in the specified space 4 so as to irradiate light onto the periphery of the usage area 41. Note that the area onto which the second lighting loads 22 irradiate light needs to include at least the area surrounding the usage area 41, and may further include part or all of the usage area 41.

In the embodiment, in two adjacent spaces, the lighting load 2 installed in one space does not necessarily have to affect only the lighting environment of the other space, but is allowed to affect the other space. In other words, in any given space 4, the lighting environment provided by the lighting load 2 corresponding to that given space 4 should be the main lighting environment, and even if there is an influence from a lighting load 2 corresponding to a space other than that given space 4, it should have almost no influence on the lighting environment of that given space 4. This is because it is considered that the influence of the lighting load 2 corresponding to a space other than that given space 4 on the user U1 present in that given space 4 is limited.

Of course, the environments of adjacent spaces may be clearly separated. For example, the lighting environment of one of the adjacent spaces may be separate from the lighting environment of the other space and the lighting environment at the boundary between them. Specifically, assume that one of the adjacent spaces is irradiated with lighting light of a relatively low color temperature, and the other space is irradiated with lighting light of a relatively high color temperature. In this case, the lighting environment at the boundary between these spaces may be an environment where lighting light from both spaces is mixed and irradiated, or an environment where lighting light is not irradiated from either space, and the environments of the adjacent spaces may be clearly separated.

[Lighting control system]
1 , the lighting control system 100 includes an input receiving unit 11, a lighting control unit 12, and a storage unit 13. In the embodiment, the lighting control system 100 needs to include at least the lighting control unit 12, and does not need to include the input receiving unit 11 and the storage unit 13. The lighting control system 100 may be installed in the office 3, or may be installed in a remote location away from the office 3.

The input reception unit 11 receives a control input to the lighting control unit 12. In the embodiment, the input reception unit 11 receives a control input as to which of the first to third control examples described below the lighting load 2 is to be controlled for each predetermined space 4. The input reception unit 11 receives a control input from an information terminal held by a person who has authority regarding the execution of lighting control by the lighting control system 100 (hereinafter referred to as an "authorized person"), such as a user U1 or an administrator of the lighting control system 100. The information terminal may include, for example, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or a personal computer. In addition, the information terminal communicates with the input reception unit 11 to transmit a signal including the control input received by the information terminal to the input reception unit 11. By receiving this signal, the input reception unit 11 receives the control input. The communication between the input reception unit 11 and the information terminal may be wired communication or wireless communication, and the communication standard is not particularly limited.

The lighting control unit 12 is capable of communicating with the lighting loads 2 installed in each specified space 4, and controls each lighting load 2 by transmitting a control signal to each lighting load 2. In other words, the lighting control unit 12 controls the lighting load 2 for each specified space 4. The communication between the lighting control unit 12 and each lighting load 2 may be wired communication or wireless communication, and the communication standard is not particularly limited.

The lighting control unit 12 controls at least the light color of the lighting loads 2 installed in each specified space 4 in response to the control input received by the input receiving unit 11. In other words, the lighting control unit 12 controls the color temperature of the light emitted by the lighting loads 2 installed in the specified space 4. Of course, the lighting control unit 12 may control not only the light color but also the illuminance of the lighting loads 2 installed in each specified space 4.

Specifically, the lighting control unit 12 controls the first lighting load 21 in the range where the light color of the first lighting load 21 is white for the lighting load 2 installed in each predetermined space 4, and controls the second lighting load 22 in the range where the light color of the second lighting load 22 is a color other than white. In particular, in the embodiment, the lighting control unit 12 controls the second lighting load 22 so that the light color of the second lighting load 22 is one of blue, bluish white, purplish white, light blue-green, blue-purple, light blue, light blue-purple, light yellow-red, orange-pink, light yellow, light pink, yellowish white, red, pink, yellow, yellow-green, light yellow-green, green, light green, and greenish white. In other words, the lighting control unit 12 controls the second lighting load 22 so that the light color is within the hatched range in the chromaticity diagram shown in FIG. 3.

In this way, by controlling the environment of each specified space 4, it is possible to make the environment different for each specified space 4, for example, and a so-called zoning effect can be expected.

Here, the zoning effect means, for example, a sense of cognitive division of space, and may include an effect that makes it easier for user U1 to recognize that multiple spaces are different from one another in appearance. Furthermore, the zoning effect may include an effect that, through user U1's recognition, makes it easier to encourage user U1 to change his or her behavior or movement lines in accordance with the intention of the zoning. For example, assume that an arbitrary space has been zoned with the intention that it will be a space where user U1 can easily perform work that requires concentration. In this case, if user U1, who sees the space, uses the space with the primary purpose of performing work that requires concentration, it can be said that the zoning effect has been achieved.

The zoning effect may also include the subjective effects and sensations of user U1, or effects in which physiological, psychological, and biological actions show a tendency according to the purpose of zoning, when user U1 actually uses a zoned space. For example, assume that an arbitrary space is zoned with the intention of making it a space in which it is easy to perform tasks that require concentration, and that user U1 uses the space. In this case, if user U1 feels that he or she was able to concentrate by using the space, or if indicators and data are obtained that suggest that user U1 was concentrating in terms of psychological and biological actions, then it can be said that the zoning effect has been achieved.

By controlling the lighting loads 2 installed in the specified space 4 as described above, it is possible to zone the specified space 4 without using fixtures or furniture. This makes it easier to improve the design of the specified space 4, and enables so-called active zoning, in which the layout of the office 3 can be changed instantly by controlling the lighting loads 2. That is, changing the control parameters for the color temperature (light color) of the light emitted by the lighting loads 2 in the specified space 4 is completed in, for example, a few seconds. In this case, it is possible to change the layout of the office 3 in a few seconds. Here, if the layout of the office 3 is changed by manually moving fixtures or furniture, it takes 60 minutes, a few hours, or a day, and in some cases, several days. From this point of view, zoning by controlling the lighting loads 2 described above can have an extremely remarkable effect.

Active zoning makes it possible to change the layout of office 3 on a short cycle, such as hourly, daily, or monthly, compared to changing the layout of an office by conventionally rearranging fixtures or furniture.

In the embodiment, the lighting control unit 12 executes one of the first to third control examples listed below, thereby providing each predetermined space 4 with a lighting environment corresponding to the control example. Which of the first to third control examples the lighting control unit 12 executes control in is determined by, for example, an authorized person.

In the first control example, the lighting control unit 12 controls the first lighting load 21 so that the color temperature of the light emitted by the first lighting load 21 is 4000K or higher. In the first control example, the lighting control unit 12 controls the second lighting load 22 so that the light color of the second lighting load 22 is any one of blue, bluish white, purplish white, light blue-green, blue-purple, light blue, and light blue-purple. FIG. 4 shows a range in which the second lighting load 22 can be adjusted in the first control example. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the light color of the second lighting load 22 in the first control example of the lighting control system 100 according to the embodiment. Like FIG. 3, FIG. 4 shows a chromaticity diagram in the XYZ color system. In the first control example, the lighting control unit 12 controls the second lighting load 22 so that the light color is within the hatched range in the chromaticity diagram shown in FIG. 4.

In the specified space 4 provided with the lighting environment according to the first control example, it is expected that the space will be one in which user U1 can easily achieve a concentration effect, compared to a case in which only white light is irradiated, or a case in which only non-white light is irradiated.

In the second control example, the lighting control unit 12 controls the first lighting load 21 so that the color temperature of the light emitted by the first lighting load 21 is 4000K or less. In the second control example, the lighting control unit 12 controls the second lighting load 22 so that the light color of the second lighting load 22 is any one of light colors of light yellow-red, orange-pink, pink, red, yellow, light yellow, light pink, and yellowish white. In the second control example, the range in which the second lighting load 22 can be adjusted is shown in FIG. 5. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the light color of the second lighting load 22 in the second control example of the lighting control system 100 according to the embodiment. Like FIG. 3, FIG. 5 shows a chromaticity diagram in the XYZ color system. In the second control example, the lighting control unit 12 controls the second lighting load 22 so that the light color is within the range hatched in the chromaticity diagram shown in FIG. 5.

In the specified space 4 provided with the lighting environment according to the second control example, it is expected that the space will be one in which user U1 can more easily achieve a relaxing effect, compared to when only white light is irradiated, and when only non-white light is irradiated. In addition, in the specified space 4 provided with the lighting environment according to the second control example, it is expected that the space will be one in which user U1 can more easily achieve the effect of communicating with other users U1, compared to when only white light is irradiated, and when only non-white light is irradiated.

In the third control example, the lighting control unit 12 controls the first lighting load 21 so that the color temperature of the light emitted by the first lighting load 21 is 4000K or higher. In the third control example, the lighting control unit 12 controls the second lighting load 22 so that the light color of the second lighting load 22 is any one of yellow-green, light yellow-green, green, light green, and greenish white. In the third control example, the range in which the second lighting load 22 can be adjusted is shown in FIG. 6. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the light color of the second lighting load 22 in the third control example of the lighting control system 100 according to the embodiment. Like FIG. 3, FIG. 6 shows a chromaticity diagram in the XYZ color system. In the third control example, the lighting control unit 12 controls the second lighting load 22 so that the light color is within the hatched range in the chromaticity diagram shown in FIG. 6.

In the specified space 4 provided with the lighting environment according to the third control example, it is expected that the space will be one in which user U1 is more likely to obtain a refreshing effect, an increased motivation effect, or an awakening effect, compared to a case in which only white light is irradiated, or a case in which only non-white light is irradiated.

The memory unit 13 is a storage device that stores information (such as computer programs) necessary for the lighting control unit 12 to perform control. The memory unit 13 is realized, for example, by a HDD (Hard Disk Drive), but may also be realized by semiconductor memory, and any known means of electronic information storage may be used without any particular limitation.

The input reception unit 11, the lighting control unit 12, and the memory unit 13 may all be mounted on the same board or housed in the same housing. The board or housing may be attached to the ceiling, wall, floor, or fixtures or furniture such as desks in the office 3. In this case, the lighting control system 100 is preferably compact.

[Action]
An example of the operation of the lighting control system 100 according to the embodiment will be described below with reference to Fig. 7. Fig. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the lighting control system 100 according to the embodiment. In the following description, it is assumed that the lighting control unit 12 does not control the lighting loads 2 installed in each predetermined space 4 before the input receiving unit 11 receives a control input.

First, the input reception unit 11 waits until it receives a control input (S1: No). Then, when the input reception unit 11 receives the control input (S1: Yes), the lighting control unit 12 controls the lighting loads 2 installed in each specified space 4 according to the control input received by the input reception unit 11 (S2). Process S2 and processes S4 and S5 described below correspond to lighting control step ST1 of the lighting control method. As a result, the lighting environment of each specified space 4 is controlled based on the control input. The control input is, for example, a schedule from work time to work time on any given day. In this case, the lighting environment of each specified space 4 is controlled according to the schedule.

After that, if there is no change in the control input accepted by the input accepting unit 11 (S3: No), the lighting control unit 12 maintains the above control (S4). On the other hand, if there is a change in the control input accepted by the input accepting unit 11 (S3: Yes), the lighting control unit 12 controls to change the lighting environment of each specified space 4 based on the changed control input (S5). This updates the lighting environment of each specified space 4. A change in the control input may occur, for example, when an authorized person adjusts the lighting environment of each specified space 4. The above series of processes are then repeated until the schedule ends (S6: Yes).

[advantage]
The advantages of the lighting control system 100 according to the embodiment will be described below. First, the viewpoint of the inventor of the present application will be described. In recent years, the work styles of users have become more diverse, and for example, ABW-type offices 3 and the like have become more prominent. As already mentioned, "ABW" is a way of working in which the user U1 selects a place or desk to work at according to the work content. Specifically, "ABW" is a work style that aims to improve the productivity of the user U1 by preparing multiple spaces or environments suitable for the activities of the user U1, such as solo work in which one person concentrates on working alone or group work in which multiple people share ideas.

Here, due to the spread of infectious diseases such as COVID-19, the number of users U1 working in office 3 tends to decrease. Accordingly, the area of office 3 also tends to shrink, so maximizing the performance of user U1 within the limited space of office 3 becomes an important issue. For example, consider providing a common area such as a refreshment room or collaboration space separately from the office space (work space) in office 3. In this case, the area of the office space will be smaller than if the entire office 3 were used as the office space, so a problem may arise in that the limited area of office 3 cannot be used effectively. Therefore, the inventor of the present application has considered a system that allows office 3 to be easily used for multiple purposes in order to make effective use of the limited area of office 3.

In the lighting control system 100 according to the embodiment, the lighting control unit 12 controls the first lighting load 21 in a range in which the light color of the first lighting load 21 is white, and controls the second lighting load 22 in a range in which the light color of the second lighting load 22 is a color other than white. This has the advantage that the lighting control system 100 according to the embodiment can easily switch the specified space 4 to various environments, for example, by changing the light color (color temperature) of the first lighting load 21 and the second lighting load 22.

Specifically, consider a case where a common area and a work space are provided in an office 3. In this case, if the first lighting load 21 and the second lighting load 22 are controlled in any given space 4 in the office 3 so that the lighting environment is one that can be expected to have a relaxing effect, the given space 4 can be used as a common area. Also, if the first lighting load 21 and the second lighting load 22 are controlled in another given space 4 in the office 3 so that the lighting environment is one that can be expected to have a concentrating effect, the given space 4 can be used as a work space. And, for example, if it is desired to use the entire office 3 as a work space, the first lighting load 21 and the second lighting load 22 can be controlled in all given spaces 4 so that the lighting environment is one that can be expected to have a concentrating effect, and the entire office 3 can be used as a work space.

However, light colors other than white can have various psychological effects on user U1. For example, by illuminating the user U1's field of vision with light of a color other than white that matches the work content, mood, or preferences of user U1 while the user U1 is working, it is expected that the effect of improving the user U1's satisfaction with the specified space 4 and/or the user U1's work performance can be expected, which is preferable.

On the other hand, light colors other than white tend to make objects less visible, which can lead to problems such as making it difficult to work and accumulating eye strain. Light colors other than white also tend to make skin tones look less attractive, which can lead to a negative impression of the space and/or people. In contrast, the lighting control system 100 according to the embodiment can provide light in the white range together with light of colors other than white to the specified space 4, making it less likely that the above problems will arise.

In addition, if there is a user in the office 3 who has a different mood or desire from user U1, a measure can be considered to prepare a separate space to satisfy that user. However, this measure requires that a space corresponding to each user's mood be prepared, which can result in a problem that the area of the office 3 becomes large and the costs required for maintaining and managing the office 3 increase. In contrast, the lighting control system 100 according to the embodiment can easily provide an environment according to the mood of user U1 by changing the light color other than white depending on the mood of user U1 at any given time. Therefore, the lighting control system 100 according to the embodiment has the advantage that it is easy to realize a specified space 4 that is highly satisfying to user U1. In addition, the lighting control system 100 according to the embodiment has the advantage that it is not necessary to prepare a separate space as in the above-mentioned means, and it is easy to keep the area of the office 3 to a minimum, and it is easy to reduce the costs required for maintaining and managing the office 3.

(Modification)
Although the embodiment has been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment. Modifications of the embodiment will be listed below. The modifications described below may be combined as appropriate.

In the embodiment, the lighting control unit 12 may control the illuminance of the first lighting load 21 and the second lighting load 22. Specifically, the lighting control unit 12 may control the illuminance ratio between the illuminance of the first lighting load 21 and the illuminance of the second lighting load 22 so that the illuminance of the first lighting load 21 is higher than the illuminance of the second lighting load 22. The "illuminance ratio" here is, for example, the ratio between the maximum illuminance of the first lighting load 21 and the maximum illuminance of the second lighting load 22. The maximum illuminance of the first lighting load 21 is represented by the illuminance measured at the center of the use area 41 (here, the top surface of the desk 51) of the specified space 4 when, for example, only the first lighting load 21 is turned on in the specified space 4. The maximum illuminance of the second lighting load 22 is represented by the illuminance measured at the center of the use area 41 of the specified space 4 when, for example, only the second lighting load 22 is turned on in the specified space 4. The measurement of the illuminance is performed, for example, by an illuminance sensor installed in the specified space 4.

In this embodiment, the influence of the light emitted by the second lighting load 22 is reduced in the area where the first lighting load 21 emits light, and the light emitted by the first lighting load 21 is likely to be emphasized. Therefore, this embodiment has the advantage that the effect of the lighting environment on the user U1 can be expected to be improved compared to the case where only the light colors of the first lighting load 21 and the second lighting load 22 are controlled.

In the embodiment, the first lighting load 21 has a concentrated light distribution characteristic, and the second lighting load 22 has a diffuse light distribution characteristic, but this is not limited to this. For example, both the first lighting load 21 and the second lighting load 22 may have a concentrated light distribution characteristic. Also, for example, both the first lighting load 21 and the second lighting load 22 may have a diffuse light distribution characteristic.

Below, an example of installation of the lighting load 2 in the specified space 4 will be described in the case where both the first lighting load 21 and the second lighting load 22 have a diffuse light distribution characteristic. Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing an example of installation of the lighting load 2 in the specified space 4 in which the lighting control system 100 according to the embodiment is used.

In the example shown in FIG. 8, the office 3 has three designated spaces 4. In each designated space 4, a desk 51 and one or more chairs 52 are installed as furniture 5. A plurality of first lighting loads 21 (here, three) and a plurality of second lighting loads 22 (here, six) are installed on the ceiling of the office 3. Here, the office 3 is evenly divided into three designated spaces 4, and one first lighting load 21 and two second lighting loads 22 are installed in each designated space 4.

In each specified space 4, a first lighting load 21 is installed so that the first lighting load 21 irradiates light onto a used area 41 of the specified space 4. In addition, in each specified space 4, two second lighting loads 22 are installed on either side of the first lighting load 21 so that each second lighting load 22 irradiates light onto the periphery of the used area 41. Note that the area into which the second lighting loads 22 irradiate light needs to include at least the area surrounding the used area 41, and may further include a part or all of the used area 41.

Figure 9 is a schematic diagram showing another example of installation of a lighting load 2 in a specified space 4 in which a lighting control system 100 according to an embodiment is used. In the example shown in Figure 9, an office 3 has one specified space 4. That is, in the example shown in Figure 9, the entire office 3 is the specified space 4. A desk 51 and one or more chairs 52 are installed as furniture in the specified space 4. One first lighting load 21 and multiple (here, eight) second lighting loads 22 are installed on the ceiling of the office 3.

In the specified space 4, the first lighting load 21 is installed so that the first lighting load 21 irradiates light onto the use area 41 of the specified space 4. In addition, in the specified space 4, eight second lighting loads 22 are installed so as to surround the first lighting load 21 so that each second lighting load 22 irradiates light onto the periphery of the use area 41. Note that the area into which the second lighting loads 22 irradiate light needs to include at least the area surrounding the use area 41, and may further include a part or all of the use area 41.

Even when both the first lighting load 21 and the second lighting load 22 have a diffuse light distribution characteristic as described above, the specified space 4 can be easily switched to various environments, just as in the case where the first lighting load 21 has a concentrating light distribution characteristic and the second lighting load 22 has a diffuse light distribution characteristic.

In the embodiment, the lighting control system 100 controls the lighting loads 2 in each of the multiple specified spaces 4, but is not limited to this. For example, the lighting control system 100 may control only the lighting loads 2 in one specified space 4.

In the embodiment, the lighting control system 100 targets one office 3, but is not limited to this. For example, the lighting control system 100 may target multiple offices 3 and control the lighting load 2 in each specified space 4 for each office 3.

In the embodiment, the lighting control system 100 does not need to include the input receiving unit 11. In this case, the lighting control system 100 only needs to be set in advance at the start of use of the lighting control system 100 so as to execute control of the lighting load 2 in any one of the control examples, for example, the first control example to the third control example.

In the embodiment, one first lighting load 21 and one second lighting load 22 may be installed as the lighting load 2 in the specified space 4. In other words, multiple second lighting loads 22 do not have to be installed in the specified space 4.

In the embodiment, the lighting load 2 is not included as a component of the lighting control system 100, but the lighting load 2 may be included as a component of the lighting control system 100.

In addition, for example, in the above embodiment, the lighting control system 100 is realized by multiple devices, but it may be realized as a single device. For example, the lighting control system 100 may be realized as a single device equivalent to a server device. When the lighting control system 100 is realized by multiple devices, the components of the lighting control system 100 may be distributed in any way among the multiple devices. For example, the components of the server device in the above embodiment may be provided in an information terminal installed in a closed space. In other words, the present invention may be realized by cloud computing or edge computing.

For example, the method of communication between the devices in the above embodiment is not particularly limited. In addition, a relay device (not shown) may be used in the communication between the devices.

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

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

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

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

In addition, the present invention also includes forms obtained by applying various modifications to each embodiment that a person skilled in the art may conceive, or forms realized by arbitrarily combining the components and functions of each embodiment within the scope of the spirit of the present invention.

(summary)
As described above, the lighting control system 100 includes the lighting control unit 12 that controls the color temperature of the light emitted by the lighting load 2 provided in the specified space 4. The lighting load 2 has a first lighting load 21 and a second lighting load 22. The lighting control unit 12 controls the first lighting load 21 within a range in which the light color of the first lighting load 21 is white, and controls the second lighting load 22 within a range in which the light color of the second lighting load 22 is a color other than white.

Such a lighting control system 100 has the advantage that the specified space 4 can be easily switched between various environments by changing the light color (color temperature) of the first lighting load 21 and the second lighting load 22.

For example, in the lighting control system 100, there are multiple second lighting loads 22. The lighting loads 2 are provided in the specified space 4 such that the first lighting load 21 irradiates light onto the usage area 41 of the user U1 in the specified space 4, and the multiple second lighting loads 22 irradiate light onto the periphery of the usage area 41.

Such a lighting control system 100 has the advantage that it is possible to improve the effect that the lighting environment has on user U1.

For example, in the lighting control system 100, the specified space 4 is a work space where the user U1 performs work.

Such a lighting control system 100 has the advantage that the work space can be easily switched to various environments suitable for the user U1 to perform work.

For example, in the lighting control system 100, the first lighting load 21 has a concentrated light distribution characteristic. The second lighting load 22 has a diffuse light distribution characteristic.

Such a lighting control system 100 has the advantage that it is possible to improve the effect that the lighting environment has on user U1.

For example, in the lighting control system 100, the lighting control unit 12 controls the second lighting load 22 so that the light color of the second lighting load 22 is one of blue, bluish white, purplish white, light blue-green, blue-purple, light blue, light blue-purple, light yellow-red, orange-pink, light yellow, light pink, yellowish white, red, pink, yellow, yellow-green, light yellow-green, green, light green, and greenish white.

Such a lighting control system 100 has the advantage that it is expected to create a specified space 4 in which the user U1 is less likely to feel uncomfortable.

For example, in the lighting control system 100, the lighting control unit 12 controls the first lighting load 21 so that the color temperature of the light emitted by the first lighting load 21 is 4000K or higher, and controls the second lighting load 22 so that the light color of the second lighting load 22 is one of blue, bluish white, purplish white, light blue-green, blue-purple, light blue, and light blue-purple.

The advantage of such a lighting control system 100 is that it is expected to create a specified space 4 in which the user U1 can easily achieve a concentration effect, compared to when only white light is irradiated into the specified space 4, or when only light other than white light is irradiated into the specified space 4.

For example, in the lighting control system 100, the lighting control unit 12 controls the first lighting load 21 so that the color temperature of the light emitted by the first lighting load 21 is 4000K or less, and controls the second lighting load 22 so that the light color of the second lighting load 22 is one of light colors among light yellow-red, orange-pink, pink, red, yellow, light yellow, light pink, and yellowish white.

The advantage of such a lighting control system 100 is that it is expected to create a specified space 4 that is more likely to facilitate communication between user U1 and other users U1, compared to when only white light is irradiated into the specified space 4, or when only non-white light is irradiated into the specified space 4.

For example, in the lighting control system 100, the lighting control unit 12 controls the first lighting load 21 so that the color temperature of the light emitted by the first lighting load 21 is 4000K or higher, and controls the second lighting load 22 so that the light color of the second lighting load 22 is one of yellow-green, light yellow-green, green, light green, and greenish white.

The advantage of such a lighting control system 100 is that it is expected to create a specified space 4 in which the user U1 is more likely to experience a refreshing effect, an increased motivation effect, or an awakening effect, compared to when only white light is irradiated into the specified space 4, or when only light other than white light is irradiated.

For example, in the lighting control system 100, the lighting control unit 12 controls the illuminance ratio between the illuminance of the first lighting load 21 and the illuminance of the second lighting load 22 so that the illuminance of the first lighting load 21 is higher than the illuminance of the second lighting load 22.

Such a lighting control system 100 has the advantage that the effect of the lighting environment on the user U1 can be expected to be improved compared to when only the light colors of the first lighting load 21 and the second lighting load 22 are controlled.

For example, the lighting control method also includes a lighting control step ST1 for controlling the color temperature of light emitted by a lighting load 2 provided in a specified space 4. The lighting load 2 has a first lighting load 21 and a second lighting load 22. In the lighting control step ST1, the first lighting load 21 is controlled within a range in which the light color of the first lighting load 21 is white, and the second lighting load 22 is controlled within a range in which the light color of the second lighting load 22 is a color other than white.

This lighting control method has the advantage that the specified space 4 can be easily switched to various environments by changing the light color (color temperature) of the first lighting load 21 and the second lighting load 22.

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

This type of program has the advantage that the specified space 4 can be easily switched to various environments by changing the light color (color temperature) of the first lighting load 21 and the second lighting load 22.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 100 Lighting control system 11 Input reception unit 12 Lighting control unit 2 Lighting load 21 First lighting load 22 Second lighting load 4 Predetermined space 41 Usage area ST1 Lighting control step U1 User

Claims (9)

A lighting control unit that controls a color temperature of light emitted by a lighting load provided in a predetermined space,
The lighting load includes a first lighting load having a converging light distribution characteristic and a second lighting load having a diffusing light distribution characteristic ,
the lighting control unit controls the first lighting load so that a light color of the first lighting load is white, and controls the second lighting load so that a light color of the second lighting load is a color other than white ,
the lighting control unit controls the second lighting load so that the light color of the second lighting load is any one of blue, bluish white, purplish white, light blue-green, blue-purple, light blue, light blue-purple, light yellow-red, orange-pink, light yellow, light pink, yellowish white, red, pink, yellow, yellow-green, light yellow-green, green, light green, and greenish white;
Lighting control system. The second lighting load is a plurality of second lighting loads,
The lighting loads are provided in the specified space such that the first lighting load irradiates a user's usage area in the specified space, and the second lighting loads irradiate light around the usage area.
2. A lighting control system as claimed in claim 1. The predetermined space is a work space where a user performs work.
3. A lighting control system according to claim 1 or 2. The lighting control unit controls the first lighting load so that a color temperature of light emitted by the first lighting load is 4000K or higher, and controls the second lighting load so that a light color of the second lighting load is any one of blue, bluish white, purplish white, light blue-green, blue-purple, light blue, and light blue-purple.
A lighting control system according to any one of claims 1 to 3 . the lighting control unit controls the first lighting load so that a color temperature of light emitted by the first lighting load is 4000K or less, and controls the second lighting load so that a light color of the second lighting load is any one of light colors of light yellow-red, orange-pink, pink, red, yellow, light yellow, light pink, and yellowish white.
A lighting control system according to any one of claims 1 to 3 . the lighting control unit controls the first lighting load so that a color temperature of light emitted by the first lighting load is 4000K or higher, and controls the second lighting load so that a light color of the second lighting load is any one of yellow-green, light yellow-green, green, light green, and greenish white.
A lighting control system according to any one of claims 1 to 3 . the lighting control unit controls an illuminance ratio between the illuminance of the first lighting load and the illuminance of the second lighting load such that the illuminance of the first lighting load is higher than the illuminance of the second lighting load.
A lighting control system according to any one of claims 1 to 6 . A lighting control step of controlling a color temperature of light emitted by a lighting load provided in a predetermined space,
The lighting load includes a first lighting load having a converging light distribution characteristic and a second lighting load having a diffusing light distribution characteristic ,
In the lighting control step, the first lighting load is controlled within a range in which a light color of the first lighting load is white, and the second lighting load is controlled within a range in which a light color of the second lighting load is a color other than white ,
In the lighting control step, the second lighting load is controlled so that a light color of the second lighting load is any one of blue, bluish white, purplish white, light blue-green, blue-purple, light blue, light blue-purple, light yellow-red, orange-pink, light yellow, light pink, yellowish white, red, pink, yellow, yellow-green, light yellow-green, green, light green, and greenish white.
Lighting control methods. One or more processors,
9. A lighting control method according to claim 8 ,
program.

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