JP7634183B2 - Equipment system, information terminal and control method - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a device system, an information terminal, and a control method.

A technology has been proposed for associating identification information of devices such as lighting fixtures with layout information. Patent Document 1 discloses a device system (lighting system) that performs such association for multiple devices using an information terminal (operation device) such as a tablet PC or smartphone.

In such equipment systems, the light source of the target equipment may be blinked during the matching process. In particular, when the equipment system is used in a large space, the user carrying the information terminal must walk around the large space to visually check the blinking equipment.

JP 2019-36400 A

In the above equipment system, after a single device has been paired, a process may be performed to have the single device join the mesh network under control of an information terminal via wireless communication. However, while this process is being performed, if a user moves within a large space to pair other devices other than the single device, the distance between the single device and the information terminal may increase, causing wireless communication to be interrupted. When this happens, the single device cannot join the mesh network. In other words, in such an equipment system, it is difficult to have a device join the mesh network.

The present invention provides a device system that allows devices to easily join a mesh network.

An equipment system according to one aspect of the present invention includes a first device and a second device each capable of participating in a mesh network, and an information terminal that performs wireless communication with the first device, and when the first device has already participated in the mesh network and the second device has not yet participated in the mesh network, the information terminal outputs, to the first device using the wireless communication, proxy request information for causing the first device to perform a setting process for allowing the second device to participate in the mesh network, and the first device performs the setting process indicated by the proxy request information acquired from the information terminal.

An information terminal according to one aspect of the present invention includes a communication unit that wirelessly communicates with a first device that can join a mesh network, and a control unit that, when the first device has joined the mesh network and a second device has not joined the mesh network, causes the communication unit to output, via the wireless communication, to the first device, proxy request information for causing the first device to perform a setting process for allowing the second device to join the mesh network.

A control method according to one aspect of the present invention is a control method performed by an equipment system, the equipment system including a first equipment and a second equipment each capable of participating in a mesh network, and an information terminal that wirelessly communicates with the first equipment, and the control method includes a step in which, when the first equipment has already participated in the mesh network and the second equipment has not yet participated in the mesh network, the information terminal outputs, to the first equipment using the wireless communication, proxy request information for causing the first equipment to perform a setting process for allowing the second equipment to participate in the mesh network, and a step in which the first equipment performs the setting process indicated by the proxy request information acquired from the information terminal.

The device system of the present invention can easily allow devices to join a mesh network.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a lighting system according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of the lighting system according to the embodiment. FIG. 3 is a sequence diagram of a first operational example of the lighting system. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of an initial setting screen according to the embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of an icon in a map image according to the embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a list according to the embodiment. FIG. 7 is a sequence diagram of a second operation example of the lighting system. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a map image showing the importance according to the embodiment. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating installation positions of a plurality of second lighting fixtures and installation positions of first lighting fixtures in a map image illustrating the importance of another example according to the embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a mesh network of second lighting fixtures installed at each of the installation positions shown in FIG. FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram of an operation example 3 of the lighting system.

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)
[composition]
First, the configuration of a lighting system 100 according to an embodiment will be described.

Fig. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a lighting system 100 according to the present embodiment. Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the lighting system 100 according to the present embodiment. The lighting system 100 is an example of an equipment system. As shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the lighting system 100 includes a plurality of first lighting fixtures 10, a plurality of second lighting fixtures 20, and an information terminal 30.

In the lighting system 100 according to this embodiment, each of the multiple first lighting fixtures 10 has wireless communication capabilities and is a device capable of participating in the mesh network M. When each of the multiple first lighting fixtures 10 has already participated in the mesh network M, the multiple first lighting fixtures 10 constitute the mesh network M. In the mesh network M, when information is transmitted from one first lighting fixture 10 to another first lighting fixture 10, the information is transmitted in a bucket brigade manner.

In addition, in the lighting system 100, the information terminal 30 causes the first lighting fixture 10 to perform a setting process on behalf of the second lighting fixture 20 that has not yet joined the mesh network M to join the mesh network M. More specifically, the information terminal 30 outputs proxy request information to the first lighting fixture 10 to cause the first lighting fixture 10 to perform the above-mentioned setting process, and the first lighting fixture 10 performs the setting process indicated by the output proxy request information. This allows the second lighting fixture 20 to join the mesh network M.

In this way, when multiple first lighting fixtures 10 and multiple second lighting fixtures 20 have joined the same mesh network M, information is transmitted as follows. For example, one first lighting fixture 10 broadcasts information including the address information (destination information) of another first lighting fixture 10. Then, each of the other multiple first lighting fixtures 10 and multiple second lighting fixtures 20 that belong to the same mesh network M as the one first lighting fixture 10 that has acquired this information further broadcasts the acquired information. In other words, each of the other multiple first lighting fixtures 10 and multiple second lighting fixtures 20 relays the information. Such relaying of information is repeated within the same mesh network M. As a result, the information output by one first lighting fixture 10 is distributed to all first lighting fixtures 10 and all second lighting fixtures 20 that belong to the same mesh network M as the one first lighting fixture 10.

First, we will explain the first lighting fixtures 10.

The first lighting fixture 10 is an example of the first device. The first lighting fixture 10 is a base light or the like that is installed on the ceiling C of an indoor space and illuminates the indoor space. Each of the multiple first lighting fixtures 10 has a wireless communication function and can participate in the mesh network M. The form of the first lighting fixture 10 is not particularly limited, and may be a ceiling light, a downlight, a spotlight, or the like. Specifically, the first lighting fixture 10 has a lighting communication unit 11, a light source 12, and a lighting control unit 13.

The lighting communication unit 11 is a wireless communication circuit for the first lighting fixture 10 to perform wireless communication (more specifically, radio wave communication) with other first lighting fixtures 10, second lighting fixtures 20, and information terminals 30. When the first lighting fixture 10 that has joined the mesh network M communicates with other first lighting fixtures 10 that have joined the mesh network M or the second lighting fixture 20 that has joined the mesh network M, the lighting communication unit 11 performs communication through the mesh network M. When the second lighting fixture 20 has not joined the mesh network M, the lighting communication unit 11 performs communication with the second lighting fixture 20 without going through the mesh network M. The communication without going through the mesh network M is, for example, communication that outputs information including the address information (destination information) of the second lighting fixture 20 by unicast. The lighting communication unit 11 periodically outputs a beacon signal (sometimes called an advertisement signal) as an output signal, and performs wireless communication with the information terminal 30 that has acquired the beacon signal. Specifically, the lighting communication unit 11 performs wireless communication according to communication standards such as BLE (Bluetooth (registered trademark) Low Energy) or Wi-Fi (registered trademark).

In this embodiment, the lighting communication unit 11 acquires the proxy request information output from the information terminal 30 and performs the setting process indicated by the acquired proxy request information.

The light source 12 emits white light into the indoor space so that the first lighting device 10 can illuminate the indoor space. The light source 12 is realized, for example, by an LED (Light Emitting Diode) element, but may also be realized by other light emitting elements such as a semiconductor laser, an organic EL (Electro Luminescence), or an inorganic EL.

The lighting control unit 13 processes information related to the setting process. The lighting control unit 13 also controls the light source 12 in response to instructions from a user U output from a lighting controller (not shown) and acquired by the lighting communication unit 11, for example. The lighting control unit 13 is realized by, for example, a microcomputer, but may also be realized by a processor or a dedicated circuit. The functions of the lighting control unit 13 are realized by hardware such as a microcomputer or processor constituting the lighting control unit 13 executing a computer program (software) stored in a storage unit (not shown).

Next, we will explain the multiple second lighting devices 20.

The second lighting fixture 20 is an example of the second device. Like the first lighting fixture 10, the second lighting fixture 20 is a base light or the like that is installed on the ceiling C of an indoor space and illuminates the indoor space. Each of the multiple second lighting fixtures 20 can participate in the mesh network M. In this embodiment, the second lighting fixture 20 can participate in the mesh network M by performing a setting process. The form of the second lighting fixture 20 is not particularly limited, and may be a ceiling light, a downlight, a spotlight, or the like. Specifically, the second lighting fixture 20 has a lighting communication unit 21, a light source 22, and a lighting control unit 23.

The lighting communication unit 21 is a wireless communication circuit that enables the second lighting fixture 20 to perform wireless communication (more specifically, radio wave communication) with other second lighting fixtures 20, the first lighting fixture 10, and the information terminal 30.

The lighting communication unit 21 periodically outputs a beacon signal and communicates wirelessly with the information terminal 30 that has acquired the beacon signal. The beacon signal output from the lighting communication unit 21 is also acquired by the lighting communication unit 11 of the first lighting device 10.

When the lighting communication unit 21 of the second lighting device 20 that has joined the mesh network M communicates with the second lighting device 20 that has joined the mesh network M, the communication is performed through the mesh network M.

Similarly, when the lighting communication unit 21 of the second lighting fixture 20 that has joined the mesh network M communicates with the first lighting fixture 10 that has joined the mesh network M, the communication is performed through the mesh network M. Also, the lighting communication unit 21 of the second lighting fixture 20 that has not joined the mesh network M communicates with the lighting communication unit 11 without going through the mesh network M, as described above. Specifically, the lighting communication unit 21 performs wireless communication according to a communication standard such as BLE (Bluetooth (registered trademark) Low Energy) or Wi-Fi (registered trademark).

When the setting process is performed on the second lighting fixture 20, the lighting communication unit 21 acquires unique lighting information. This unique lighting information is stored in a memory unit (not shown) possessed by the second lighting fixture 20. The unique lighting information is information that is given separately to each of the multiple second lighting fixtures 20 and is information unique to that second lighting fixture 20. For example, the unique lighting information indicates a specific scene and a dimming control value and a color adjustment control value for that specific scene in association with each other.

The light source 22 emits white light into the indoor space so that the second lighting device 20 can illuminate the indoor space. The light source 22 is realized, for example, by an LED (Light Emitting Diode) element, but may also be realized by other light emitting elements such as a semiconductor laser, an organic EL (Electro Luminescence), or an inorganic EL.

The lighting control unit 23 processes information related to the setting process. The lighting control unit 23 also controls the light source 22 according to the unique lighting information described above. The lighting control unit 23 is realized, for example, by a microcomputer, but may also be realized by a processor or a dedicated circuit. The functions of the lighting control unit 23 are realized by hardware such as a microcomputer or processor constituting the lighting control unit 13 executing a computer program (software) stored in a storage unit (not shown).

In this embodiment, the first device and the second device are the first lighting fixture 10 and the second lighting fixture 20, respectively, as described above. Therefore, the information transmitted through the mesh network M is, for example, information specifying a specific scene. For example, the lighting control unit 23 of the multiple second lighting fixtures 20 controls turning on, turning off, or dimming by referring to the specific scene specified by the information and the unique lighting information stored in the memory unit. Also, for example, the information transmitted through the mesh network M is control information for controlling turning on, turning off, or dimming the multiple first lighting fixtures 10 and the multiple second lighting fixtures 20.

The first device and the second device may be an environmental sensor or a camera. In this case, the information transmitted through the mesh network may be, for example, the measurement value (sensing information) of the environmental sensor or video image information captured by the camera.

Next, the configuration of the information terminal 30 will be described. The information terminal 30 is an information terminal that performs information processing such as having the first lighting fixture 10 perform setting processing on behalf of the second lighting fixture 20 to join the mesh network M. The information terminal 30 is, for example, a mobile terminal such as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant). The information terminal 30 may also be a dedicated remote controller used in the lighting system 100. The information terminal 30 is used by a user U that performs the above information processing. The user U here is, for example, an installer who installed multiple second lighting fixtures 20 on the ceiling, but may also be another user U other than the installer. Specifically, the information terminal 30 includes an operation reception unit 31, a display unit 32, a terminal communication unit 33, a control unit 34, and a storage unit 35.

The operation reception unit 31 is an example of a reception unit, and receives operations from the user U. Specifically, the operation reception unit 31 is realized by a touch panel or the like.

The display unit 32 displays images necessary for the above setting process. The display unit 32 is realized by a display panel such as a liquid crystal panel or an organic EL panel.

The terminal communication unit 33 is an example of a communication unit, and is a wireless communication circuit for the information terminal 30 to perform wireless communication (more specifically, radio wave communication) with each of the multiple first lighting fixtures 10 that can join the mesh network M. The terminal communication unit 33 also performs wireless communication (more specifically, radio wave communication) with each of the multiple second lighting fixtures 20 that can join the mesh network M. Specifically, the terminal communication unit 33 performs wireless communication according to a communication standard such as BLE or Wi-Fi (registered trademark). The terminal communication unit 33 outputs, via wireless communication, to the first lighting fixture 10, proxy request information for causing the first lighting fixture 10 to perform a setting process for joining the second lighting fixture 20 to the mesh network M.

The control unit 34 performs the above information processing in response to the operation of the user U received by the operation reception unit 31. Specifically, the control unit 34 causes the terminal communication unit 33 to output, to the first lighting device 10, proxy request information for causing the first lighting device 10 to perform setting processing for allowing the second lighting device 20, which has not yet joined the mesh network M, to join the mesh network M. The control unit 34 is realized, for example, by a microcomputer, but may also be realized by a processor or a dedicated circuit. The functions of the control unit 34 are realized by hardware such as a microcomputer or processor constituting the control unit 34 executing a computer program (software) stored in the memory unit 35.

The memory unit 35 is a storage device that stores information necessary for information processing related to setting processing of the computer program executed by the control unit 34. The memory unit 35 is realized, for example, by a semiconductor memory.

In the present embodiment, the setting process for allowing the second lighting device 20 that has not yet joined the mesh network M to join the mesh network M is performed by the first lighting device 10 that has already joined the mesh network M, but this is not limited to this. The information terminal 30 itself may perform the setting process.

[Operation example 1]
Next, a first operational example of the lighting system 100 will be described.

Here, the operation example includes an initial setting operation that associates the installation positions of the second lighting devices 20 with the identification information of the second lighting devices 20, and a setting processing operation that performs setting processing for each of the multiple second lighting devices 20 to join the mesh network M. The setting processing operation is also called provisioning.

Before this operation example is performed, an initial setting operation that associates the installation positions of the first lighting fixtures 10 with the identification information of the first lighting fixtures 10 and a setting processing operation that performs setting processing for each of the multiple first lighting fixtures 10 to join the mesh network M have already been performed. In other words, at the time this operation example is performed, the installation positions of the first lighting fixtures 10 and the identification information are associated, and the multiple first lighting fixtures 10 have already joined the mesh network M. The initial setting operation and setting processing operation for the first lighting fixtures 10 may be performed using a known method. In other words, in this operation example, the multiple first lighting fixtures 10 have already joined the mesh network M and the second lighting fixture 20 has not yet joined the mesh network M.

The initial setting operation and setting processing operation for the second lighting device 20 will be explained using Figure 3.

Figure 3 is a sequence diagram of an operation example 1 of the lighting system 100. The operation example of Figure 3 is performed, for example, after a plurality of first lighting fixtures 10 and second lighting fixtures 20 have been installed on the ceiling C by an installer. The installer is an example of a user U.

First, we will explain the initial setting operation for the second lighting device 20.

The operation reception unit 31 of the information terminal 30 receives a first start operation that instructs the start of an initial setting operation (S10). The operation reception unit 31 receives the first start operation from, for example, an installer.

Based on the first start operation received by the operation reception unit 31, the control unit 34 displays an initial setting screen including a map image 32m on the display unit 32 (S12). FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the initial setting screen according to the present embodiment. The map image 32m is a top view of an area in which a plurality of first lighting fixtures 10 and a plurality of second lighting fixtures 20 are installed. In the example of FIG. 4, the installation positions P1 to P12 of the plurality of second lighting fixtures 20 are indicated by circles. That is, the map image 32m is an image showing the installation positions of the plurality of second lighting fixtures 20. Also, in FIG. 4, the installation positions P101 to P104 of the plurality of first lighting fixtures 10 where the initial setting operation and the setting processing operation have been performed are also shown. The map image 32m is stored in the storage unit 35 in advance. Note that the plurality of icons 32a in the initial setting screen shown in FIG. 4 are not actually displayed at the time of step S12, but are displayed in step S18 described below.

As described above, at the time of step S12, it is known how the multiple second lighting devices 20 are installed, but it is unknown which second lighting devices 20 are located in which locations. In other words, at the time of step S12, the installation positions of the second lighting devices 20 are not associated with the identification information of the second lighting devices 20.

Here, each of the second lighting devices 20 periodically outputs a beacon signal before joining the mesh network M. The beacon signal emitted by each of the second lighting devices 20 includes identification information of the second lighting device 20 (such as a Media Access Control (MAC) address).

In this situation, the operation reception unit 31 receives a scan start operation from the installer (S14). The scan start operation is, for example, a tap operation on the scan start icon 32b on the initial setting screen of FIG. 4.

When the scan start operation is received, the terminal communication unit 33 acquires a beacon signal from each of the second lighting devices 20 (S16). The acquired MAC addresses are stored in the memory unit 35.

When the multiple MAC addresses are acquired by the device communication unit 33, the control unit 34 displays multiple icons 32a on the display unit 32 that correspond one-to-one to the multiple MAC addresses on the initial setting screen (S18). The multiple icons 32a are icons that are operated by the installer to select multiple MAC addresses. Figure 4 shows an example of an initial setting screen on which multiple icons 32a of the second lighting device 20 are displayed, and the multiple icons 32a are displayed in a horizontal row.

Next, the operation reception unit 31 receives a selection operation of the multiple icons 32a from the installer (S20). The selection operation is, for example, a tap operation on one of the multiple icons 32a. The control unit 34 outputs a blinking command to the device communication unit 33 based on the selection operation received by the operation reception unit 31 (S22). The blinking command is output, for example, when a tap operation on the blinking icon 32c is received after the selection operation.

In the blink command, identification information of the second lighting device 20 corresponding to the selected icon 32a is specified. The blink command is a signal for selectively blinking a target second lighting device 20, which is a second lighting device 20 having the identification information, among the multiple second lighting devices 20. When the target second lighting device 20 among the multiple second lighting devices 20 receives the blink command, the light source 22 blinks (S24). As an example, there is one target second lighting device 20, and the light sources 22 of the other multiple second lighting devices 20 do not blink.

The installer operating the information terminal 30 visually checks the actual installation position of the blinking target second lighting device 20 (S26) and specifies the installation position of the blinking target second lighting device 20 on the map image 32m (for example, one of the installation positions P1 to P12). The operation reception unit 31 receives an operation to specify the installation position of the second lighting device 20 in the map image 32m from the installer (S28). Then, the control unit 34 associates the identification information indicated by the icon 32a selected in step S20 with the installation position specified in step S28 and stores them in the storage unit 35 (S30). The control unit 34 also cancels the display of the icon 32a for which the association has been completed (S32). In other words, the number of the multiple icons 32a displayed in step S18 is reduced by one.

The above steps S10 to S32 correspond to the initial setting operation.

Next, we will explain the setting process.

Here, the setting process operation is performed for the second lighting device 20 (the target second lighting device 20) for which matching was completed in step S30 of the initial setting operation.

First, the operation reception unit 31 of the information terminal 30 receives a second start operation from the installer, which instructs the start of the setting process operation (S34).

The second start operation is, for example, a tap operation on a setting process operation start icon (not shown) on the initial setting screen of FIG. 4. Furthermore, the operation reception unit 31 of the information terminal 30 receives a selection operation from the installer to select a first lighting fixture 10 for which setting processing is to be performed for the target second lighting fixture 20. The selection operation is, for example, a tap operation on one of the installation positions P101 to P104 of the multiple first lighting fixtures 10.

In step S34, the map image 32m shows the installation positions of the first lighting fixtures 10 that wirelessly communicate with the second lighting fixtures 20 that are targets to be added to the mesh network M. As an example, when the target second lighting fixture 20 is installed at installation position P1, installation positions P101 and P102, which are the installation positions of the first lighting fixtures 10 that wirelessly communicate with the target second lighting fixture 20, are marked with star-shaped symbols.

The first lighting device 10 that wirelessly communicates with the target second lighting device 20 is a first lighting device 10 that is located within a predetermined distance from the target second lighting device 20. The first lighting device 10 that wirelessly communicates with the target second lighting device 20 may also be a first lighting device 10 that receives a beacon signal output from the target second lighting device 20 with a received signal strength equal to or greater than a predetermined value.

The selection operation received in step S34 is an operation to select a first lighting device 10 for which setting processing is to be performed from one or more first lighting devices 10 that wirelessly communicate with the target second lighting device 20. Note that the selected first lighting device 10 may be described as a first lighting device 10 that is a proxy device.

The control unit 34 communicates by unicast with the first lighting fixture 10, which is the proxy device selected by the received selection operation, and causes the terminal communication unit 33 to output proxy request information to the first lighting fixture 10 (S36). That is, the first lighting fixture 10 has already joined the mesh network M and the target second lighting fixture 20 has not yet joined the mesh network M, and in this case, the information terminal 30 outputs the proxy request information. The proxy request information is information for causing the first lighting fixture 10, which is the proxy device, to perform setting processing to join the target second lighting fixture 20 to the mesh network M.

More specifically, the proxy request information includes information indicating the mesh network M.

The information indicating the mesh network M is information for the target second lighting device 20 to join the mesh network M. The information indicating the mesh network M includes the network ID of the mesh network M to which the first lighting device 10 already belongs, and address information (unicast address) of the target second lighting device 20 used for communication within the mesh network M. The information indicating the mesh network M may also include, as necessary, a security passcode used for communication within the mesh network M, information about the information terminal 30 (information about the device that manages the mesh network M), and the like.

At this time, the terminal communication unit 33 also outputs unique lighting information unique to the target second lighting device 20 to the first lighting device 10, which is the proxy device. The unique lighting information is information that is provided separately to each of the multiple second lighting devices 20 and is unique to that second lighting device 20.

The lighting communication unit 11 of the first lighting fixture 10, which is the proxy device, acquires the proxy request information and the unique lighting information of the target second lighting fixture 20.

The lighting communication unit 11 of the first lighting fixture 10, which is the proxy device, communicates with the target second lighting fixture 20 via unicast, and outputs information indicating the mesh network M indicated in the acquired proxy request information, and the unique lighting information of the target second lighting fixture 20 (S38).

The target second lighting device 20 acquires and stores the output information indicating the mesh network M and the unique lighting information (S40). More specifically, the acquired information indicating the mesh network M and the unique lighting information are stored in a storage unit (not shown) of the target second lighting device 20.

The second lighting device 20, in which information indicating the mesh network M is stored in the storage unit, can join the mesh network M. When step S40 is performed, the setting process for joining the target second lighting device 20 to the mesh network M is completed.

In this way, the setting process can be said to be a process of outputting information indicating the mesh network M to the second lighting device 20. As a result, the information indicating the mesh network M is stored in the second lighting device 20, and the second lighting device 20 can more reliably participate in the mesh network M.

In addition, in steps S38 and S40, the display unit 32 may display that the first lighting device 10, which is the proxy device, is performing the setting process and that the setting process is being performed on the target second lighting device 20, and/or the progress of the setting process.

Figure 5 is a diagram showing an example of an icon in the map image 32m according to the present embodiment. In steps S38 and S40, as shown in Figure 5, text 32d such as "Setting process in progress" may be displayed to indicate that the first lighting fixture 10 is performing the setting process and that the setting process is being performed on the target second lighting fixture 20. Also, as shown in Figure 5, a progress bar 32e showing the progress of the setting process and the progress rate may be displayed.

Furthermore, when the setting process is completed, the lighting communication unit 21 of the target second lighting device 20 outputs setting completion information indicating that the setting process is completed to the lighting communication unit 11 of the first lighting device 10, which is the proxy device (S42).

Next, the lighting communication unit 11 of the first lighting fixture 10, which is the proxy device, outputs the output setting completion information to the information terminal 30 (S44). The terminal communication unit 33 of the information terminal 30 acquires the setting completion information output from the first lighting fixture 10 that performed the setting process (i.e., the first lighting fixture 10, which is the proxy device).

When the device communication unit 33 acquires the setting completion information, the control unit 34 changes and displays the icon indicating the target second lighting device 20 in the map image 32m displayed by the display unit 32 (S46). As an example, but not limited to, a star-shaped symbol is added to the icon indicating the target second lighting device 20.

The above steps S34 to S46 correspond to the setting process.

The processes from step S20 to step S46 are repeated until all second lighting devices 20 have joined the mesh network M. The second lighting devices 20 that have joined the mesh network M stop periodically outputting beacon signals that they had been doing before joining.

As described above, in this embodiment, one of the multiple first lighting fixtures 10 performs the setting process operation as a proxy for the information terminal 30, and causes the target second lighting fixture 20 to join the mesh network M. As a result, even if the installer moves and the distance between the information terminal 30 and the target second lighting fixture 20 increases while the proxy device, the first lighting fixture 10, is performing the setting process operation, the target second lighting fixture 20 can be allowed to join the mesh network M. More specifically, even if the installer moves after the processing of step S36, in order to associate other second lighting fixtures 20 that are not the target second lighting fixture 20, the target second lighting fixture 20 can be allowed to join the mesh network M.

In other words, the lighting system 100 according to this embodiment can easily allow the second lighting device 20 to join the mesh network M.

Furthermore, after the processing of step S36, the installer is less likely to be restricted in his or her movements, i.e., the installer can move around freely, so all second lighting devices 20 can join the mesh network M more quickly.

In step S32, the map image 32m showing the first lighting device 10, which is the proxy device, is displayed on the display unit 32, but this is not limited to this. For example, a list 32L in which the first lighting device 10 that wirelessly communicates with the second lighting device 20 that is the target of the second lighting device 20 is extracted may be displayed on the display unit 32.

Figure 6 shows an example of list 32L according to this embodiment.

When list 32L is displayed, in step S34, the selection operation is an operation of selecting a first lighting device 10 for which the setting process is to be performed from among one or more first lighting devices 10 extracted in list 32L.

Furthermore, when the first lighting fixture 10, which is the proxy device, is performing the setting process (i.e., steps S38 and S40), the lighting state of the light source 12 may change, for example, the light source 12 may blink. When the first lighting fixture 10, which is the proxy device, is performing the setting process on the target second lighting fixture 20 (i.e., steps S38 and S40), the lighting state of the light source 12 may change, for example, the light source 22 may blink. This makes it easier for the installer to recognize the first lighting fixture 10 that is performing the setting process and the second lighting fixture 20 that is performing the setting process.

In step S32, the first lighting device 10, which is the proxy device, is determined based on the installer's operation, but this is not limited to this.

As described above, the lighting communication unit 11 of the first lighting device 10 periodically outputs a beacon signal as an output signal and performs wireless communication with the information terminal 30 that has acquired the beacon signal. The information terminal 30 may determine the first lighting device 10 that is the proxy device based on the strength of the acquired beacon signal.

Specifically, the information terminal 30 may cause the first lighting device 10 that outputs an output signal (beacon signal) with the highest received signal strength for the information terminal 30 to perform a setting process for allowing the target second lighting device 20 to participate in the mesh network M. In other words, in this case, the first lighting device 10 that outputs the beacon signal with the highest received signal strength becomes the proxy device.

The first lighting device 10 that outputs the output signal with the highest received signal strength is the device that is most likely to communicate with the information terminal 30 (the device least likely to experience communication interruptions). In this case, the proxy request information is output to the first lighting device 10 that is most likely to communicate with the information terminal 30, so communication failures due to communication interruptions, etc. are less likely to occur.

Furthermore, the first lighting device 10 that outputs an output signal with the highest received signal strength is expected to be a lighting device that is close to the information terminal 30 and has a communication range equivalent to that of the information terminal 30. Therefore, the first lighting device 10 is likely to be able to communicate with the multiple second lighting devices 20 (i.e., the multiple scanned second lighting devices 20) corresponding to the beacon signal acquired in step S16. Therefore, communication between the first lighting device 10 and the target second lighting device 20 is unlikely to be interrupted, and communication failure is unlikely to occur. In other words, when the first lighting device 10 that outputs an output signal with the highest received signal strength is selected as the proxy device, the possibility that the first lighting device 10 that has difficulty communicating with the target second lighting device 20 will be selected as the proxy device is reduced.

In this way, in the lighting system 100 according to the present embodiment, communication failure between the information terminal 30 and the first lighting fixture 10, which is the proxy device, is unlikely to occur, and communication failure between the first lighting fixture 10, which is the proxy device, and the target second lighting fixture 20 is unlikely to occur. In other words, the lighting system 100 according to the present embodiment can easily and reliably allow the second lighting fixture 20 to join the mesh network M.

As shown in FIG. 3, in this embodiment, a setting process is performed after the initial setting process. In other words, the information terminal 30 outputs the proxy request information after performing a process of associating the installation position of the second lighting device 20 with the identification information that identifies the second lighting device 20.

This allows configuration processing to be performed for the second lighting device 20 associated with the installation location and identification information, making it easier to have the second lighting device 20 join the mesh network M.

[Operation example 2]
In the following, an operation example 2, which is different from the sequence diagram shown in FIG. 3, will be described with reference to FIG.

Figure 7 is a sequence diagram of operation example 2 of the lighting system 100. The operation example of Figure 7 is performed, for example, after a plurality of first lighting fixtures 10 and second lighting fixtures 20 have been installed on the ceiling C by an installer.

In operation example 1, the initial setting operation and the setting processing operation are performed consecutively for one target second lighting device 20. However, in operation example 2, after step S16 is processed, steps S18 to S32 are performed for all second lighting devices 20. In other words, in operation example 2, after the initial setting operation is performed for all second lighting devices 20, the setting processing operation is performed in sequence for each of the multiple second lighting devices 20.

Steps S18 to S32 are repeated, and when the initial setting operation has been performed for all second lighting devices 20, the setting processing operation is performed.

First, the operation acceptance unit 31 of the information terminal 30 accepts from the user U a second start operation that instructs the user U to start the setting process operation (S34). The second start operation is, for example, a tap operation on the setting process operation start icon (not shown) on the initial setting screen of FIG. 4, as in the first operation example. Note that, unlike the first operation example, at this point in time, the operation acceptance unit 31 of the information terminal 30 does not accept from the installer a selection operation for selecting the first lighting device 10 for which the setting process is to be performed.

In the first operational example, the second lighting device 20 on which the setting process is performed is determined by a selection operation by the installer in step S20, that is, the installer selects the target second lighting device 20, but in the second operational example, this is not limited to this.

In operation example 2, when the process of step S34 is performed, the map image 32m displayed by the display unit 32 shows information indicating the importance of each of the one or more second lighting devices 20. The setting process is performed preferentially for the second lighting device 20 with the highest importance. In other words, the control unit 34 of the information terminal 30 determines the second lighting device 20 with the highest importance as the second lighting device 20 for which the setting process is to be performed (the target second lighting device 20) (S35).

Here, we will explain the importance level using Figure 8.

Figure 8 is a diagram showing an example of a map image 32m showing the importance according to this embodiment. The map image 32m shown in Figure 8 is an example of a screen displayed on the display unit 32 in step S35. In Figure 8, the installation positions of the multiple second lighting fixtures 20 in the map image 32m (e.g., installation positions P21, P31 to P37, and P41) are shown with circles, and each circle has a number indicating the importance 32f written on it. Here, the smaller the number indicating the importance 32f, the higher the importance. Note that the installation positions P111 to P114 of the multiple first lighting fixtures 10 in the map image 32m are shown with icons similar to those in the map image 32m in Figure 4.

Furthermore, using Figure 8, we will explain the second lighting device 20, which has a high importance level 32f.

In the map image 32m shown in FIG. 8, some of the second lighting fixtures 20 are installed close together, and other of the second lighting fixtures 20 are installed between the above-mentioned some and the first lighting fixtures 10. In this case, the second lighting fixtures 20 with higher importance are the above-mentioned other.

Here, the "part" refers to the second lighting fixtures 20 installed within the area A of the dashed ellipse shown in FIG. 8, that is, the second lighting fixtures 20 installed at each of the installation positions P31 to P37. The "other part" refers to the second lighting fixture 20 installed at the installation position P21.

After all the second lighting fixtures 20 have joined the mesh network M, for example, information communicated via the mesh network M output by the first lighting fixture 10 reaches the part via the other part. In other words, the other part is the second lighting fixture 20 located on the communication path connecting the first lighting fixture 10 and the part.

Therefore, in the second operation example 2, the second lighting device 20 with higher importance is set as the other part, and the setting process is performed preferentially on the second lighting device 20 with higher importance, so that communication via the mesh network M is less likely to be interrupted and the stability of communication is improved.

In FIG. 8, a second lighting fixture 20 is also installed at installation position P41, but since this lighting fixture is not installed between the above-mentioned part and the first lighting fixture 10, it is less important than the other part (i.e., the second lighting fixture 20 installed at installation position P21).

When the second lighting device 20 with the highest importance is determined as the target second lighting device 20, the operation reception unit 31 of the information terminal 30 further receives a selection operation from the installer to select the first lighting device 10 for which the setting process is to be performed for the target second lighting device 20. The selection operation is, for example, a tap operation on one of the installation positions P101 to P104 of the multiple first lighting devices 10.

As in operation example 1, this selection operation is an operation for selecting a first lighting device 10 for which setting processing is to be performed from one or more first lighting devices 10 that wirelessly communicate with the target second lighting device 20.

Then, steps S36 to S46 are performed. As a result, first, the second lighting device 20 with the highest importance (the target second lighting device 20) joins the mesh network M, and the information terminal 30 obtains the setting completion information. In this way, the setting process is performed with priority for the second lighting device 20 with the highest importance.

Furthermore, the processes of steps S34 to S46 are repeated for each of the second lighting devices 20 in descending order of importance, and all of the second lighting devices 20 join the mesh network M.

Note that the second lighting device 20 with high importance is not limited to the above. Below, we will explain examples of importance other than those described above.

9 is a diagram showing the installation positions P51-P55, P61-P65, and P71-P75 of the second lighting fixtures 20 and the installation position P121 of the first lighting fixture 10 in a map image 32m showing the importance of another example according to the present embodiment. In the example shown in FIG. 9, the second lighting fixtures 20 are classified into three clusters C1, C2, and C3. For example, the second lighting fixtures 20 installed at the installation positions P51-P55 among the second lighting fixtures 20 are classified into cluster C1. Also, for example, the second lighting fixtures 20 installed at the installation positions P61-P65 among the second lighting fixtures 20 are classified into cluster C2. Also, for example, the second lighting fixtures 20 installed at the installation positions P71-P75 among the second lighting fixtures 20 are classified into cluster C3.

Furthermore, in the example shown in FIG. 9, an example configuration of mesh networks M, M1, M2, and M3 desired by a client, who is an example of user U, will be described using FIG. 10. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing examples of mesh networks M, M1, M2, and M3 of second lighting fixtures 20 installed at installation positions P51-P55, P61-P65, and P71-P75 shown in FIG. 9. In FIG. 10, mesh network M is shown by a dashed line, and mesh networks M1, M2, and M3 are shown by a dashed line, a double-dashed line, and a dotted line, respectively.

Here, one cluster is provided with one gateway device, and the gateway device of cluster C1 is the second lighting fixture 20 installed at installation position P51. The gateway device of cluster C2 is the second lighting fixture 20 installed at installation position P61. The gateway device of cluster C3 is the second lighting fixture 20 installed at installation position P71.

A gateway device communicates with gateway devices classified into clusters other than the cluster to which it is classified, via mesh network M. For example, a second lighting device 20 installed at installation position P51, which is a gateway device in cluster C1, communicates with second lighting devices 20 installed at installation positions P61 and P71, which are gateway devices, via mesh network M.

Each of the second lighting fixtures 20 communicates with other second lighting fixtures 20 classified in the same cluster as the cluster to which the second lighting fixture 20 is classified, via the mesh network of the same cluster. For example, the second lighting fixture 20 installed at installation position P55, which is classified in cluster C1, communicates with the second lighting fixtures 20 installed at each of installation positions P51 to P54, which are also classified in cluster C1, via mesh network M1.

In other words, the gateway device is a device that has the function of relaying communications with each of the multiple second lighting devices 20 that are classified into a cluster other than the cluster to which the gateway device is classified.

In other words, in the example shown in FIG. 10, it is a two-layer network consisting of a first layer mesh network M and second layer mesh networks M1, M2, and M3. In the example shown in FIG. 9 and FIG. 10, in step S35 of FIG. 7, the second lighting fixture 20 with high importance is treated as the gateway device and processed. The second lighting fixture 20 that is the gateway device is the second lighting fixture 20 located on the communication path, like the other parts described above. Therefore, by prioritizing the setting process for the gateway device, which is the second lighting fixture 20 with high importance, communication via the mesh network M is less likely to be interrupted and communication stability is improved.

Then, steps S36 to S46 are performed. As a result, first, the second lighting device 20 with the highest importance (the target second lighting device 20) joins the mesh network M, and the information terminal 30 obtains the setting completion information. In this way, the setting process is performed with priority for the second lighting device 20 with the highest importance.

Furthermore, the processes of steps S34 to S46 are repeated for all second lighting devices 20 in descending order of importance, and all second lighting devices 20 join the mesh network M. Here, the processes of steps S34 to S46 shown in FIG. 7 are repeated to obtain the mesh networks M, M1, M2, and M3 shown in FIG. 10.

[Operation example 3]
Further, an operation example 3 of the lighting system 100, which is different from the above operation examples 1 and 2, will be described.

In operation examples 1 and 2, in step S16, the terminal communication unit 33 of the information terminal 30 acquires a beacon signal from each of the second lighting devices 20, but this is not limited to the above. In operation example 3, the lighting communication unit 11 of the first lighting device 10 acquires a beacon signal from each of the second lighting devices 20.

Figure 11 is a sequence diagram of operation example 3 of the lighting system 100. The operation example of Figure 3 is performed, for example, after a plurality of first lighting fixtures 10 and second lighting fixtures 20 have been installed on the ceiling C by an installer.

In the operation example 3 shown in FIG. 11, steps S10 to S14 are performed in the same manner as in the operation example 1 shown in FIG. 3.

Next, when a scan start operation is received in step S14, the lighting communication unit 11 of the first lighting device 10 acquires a beacon signal from each of the multiple second lighting devices 20 (S16a).

The first lighting device 10 then outputs the identification information (such as a MAC address) of the second lighting device 20 contained in the acquired beacon signal to the information terminal 30 as scan result information (S17). As a result, the terminal communication unit 33 acquires the scan result information, which is the identification information of each of the multiple second lighting devices 20. The acquired MAC addresses are stored in the memory unit 35. Then, the processes of steps S18 to S34 are performed in the same manner as in operation example 1 shown in FIG. 3.

In step S34, the operation reception unit 31 of the information terminal 30 receives a selection operation from the installer to select the first lighting fixture 10 for which the setting process is to be performed for the target second lighting fixture 20.

Here, the first lighting fixture 10 that acquired the beacon signal output from the target second lighting fixture 20 in step S16a is selected as the first lighting fixture 10 for which the setting process will be performed (the first lighting fixture 10 that is the proxy device). The selection operation is, for example, a tap operation on the icon corresponding to the first lighting fixture 10 that acquired the beacon signal, among the installation positions P101 to P104 of the multiple first lighting fixtures 10.

Then, steps S36 to S46 are performed in the same manner as in the operation example 1 shown in FIG. 3. This allows the target second lighting device 20 to join the mesh network M.

In this manner, in operation example 3, the first lighting fixture 10 acquires the identification information for identifying the second lighting fixture 20 output by the second lighting fixture 20, and outputs the acquired identification information to the information terminal 30. Then, the first lighting fixture 10 that acquired the above-mentioned identification information output from the second lighting fixture 20 that is the target of the setting process is selected as the first lighting fixture 10 for which the setting process is to be performed.

In such a case, the first lighting fixture 10 that can obtain the identification information for identifying the second lighting fixture 20, that is, that can sufficiently communicate with the second lighting fixture 20, performs the setting process for the second lighting fixture 20. This makes it less likely that problems such as communication being interrupted between the first lighting fixture 10 and the second lighting fixture 20 during the setting process will occur, thereby preventing the second lighting fixture 20 from failing to join the mesh network M.

[Effects, etc.]
As described above, the equipment system (lighting system 100) includes a first device (first lighting fixture 10) capable of participating in the mesh network M, a second device (second lighting fixture 20) capable of participating in the mesh network M, and an information terminal 30. Here, the equipment system includes a plurality of first devices (first lighting fixtures 10) and a plurality of second devices (second lighting fixtures 20). The information terminal 30 wirelessly communicates with the first device. When the first device has already participated in the mesh network M and the second device has not yet participated in the mesh network M, the information terminal 30 performs the following process. In this case, the information terminal 30 outputs, via wireless communication, to the first device, proxy request information for causing the first device to perform a setting process for allowing the second device to participate in the mesh network M. The first device performs a setting process indicated by the proxy request information acquired from the information terminal 30.

In this embodiment, one of the multiple first lighting fixtures 10 performs a setting process operation as a proxy for the information terminal 30, and causes the target second lighting fixture 20 to join the mesh network M. As a result, even if the installer moves and the distance between the information terminal 30 and the target second lighting fixture 20 increases while the proxy device, the first lighting fixture 10, is performing the setting process operation, the target second lighting fixture 20 can be allowed to join the mesh network M. More specifically, even if the installer moves after the processing of step S36, in order to associate other second lighting fixtures 20 that are not the target second lighting fixture 20, the target second lighting fixture 20 can be allowed to join the mesh network M.

In other words, the lighting system 100 according to this embodiment can easily allow the second lighting device 20 to join the mesh network M.

For example, the first device (first lighting device 10) has a light source 12 whose lighting state changes when the setting process is being performed.

This makes it easier for the installer to recognize the first lighting device 10 undergoing the setting process.

For example, the second device (second lighting device 20) has a light source 22 whose lighting state changes when the setting process is being performed by the first device (first lighting device 10).

This makes it easier for the installer to recognize the second lighting device 20 for which the setting process is being performed.

Also, for example, the lighting system 100 includes one or more first devices (first lighting devices 10) that each wirelessly communicate with a second device (second lighting device 20) to be included in the mesh network M and each output an output signal to the information terminal 30. The information terminal 30 causes the first device that outputs an output signal with the highest received signal strength for the information terminal 30 to perform a setting process for including the target second device in the mesh network M.

The first lighting device 10 that outputs the output signal with the highest received signal strength is the device that is easiest to communicate with the information terminal 30 (the device with which communication is least likely to be interrupted).

As a result, the proxy request information is output to the first lighting device 10 that is most easily able to communicate with the information terminal 30, making it less likely that communication failures will occur due to communication interruptions, etc.

Furthermore, the first lighting device 10 that outputs an output signal with the highest received signal strength is expected to be a lighting device that is close to the information terminal 30 and has a communication range equivalent to that of the information terminal 30. Therefore, the first lighting device 10 is likely to be able to communicate with the multiple second lighting devices 20 (i.e., the multiple scanned second lighting devices 20) corresponding to the beacon signal acquired in step S16. Therefore, communication between the first lighting device 10 and the target second lighting device 20 is unlikely to be interrupted, and communication failure is unlikely to occur. In other words, when the first lighting device 10 that outputs an output signal with the highest received signal strength is selected as the proxy device, the possibility that the first lighting device 10 that has difficulty communicating with the target second lighting device 20 will be selected as the proxy device is reduced.

In this way, in the lighting system 100 according to the present embodiment, communication failure between the information terminal 30 and the first lighting fixture 10, which is the proxy device, is unlikely to occur, and communication failure between the first lighting fixture 10, which is the proxy device, and the target second lighting fixture 20 is unlikely to occur. In other words, the lighting system 100 according to the present embodiment can easily and reliably allow the second lighting fixture 20 to join the mesh network M.

Also, for example, the first device (first lighting fixture 10) acquires identification information that identifies the second device output by the second device (second lighting fixture 20), and outputs the acquired identification information to the information terminal 30.

In such a case, the first lighting fixture 10 that can obtain the identification information for identifying the second lighting fixture 20, that is, that can sufficiently communicate with the second lighting fixture 20, performs the setting process for the second lighting fixture 20. This makes it less likely that problems such as communication being interrupted between the first lighting fixture 10 and the second lighting fixture 20 during the setting process will occur, thereby preventing the second lighting fixture 20 from failing to join the mesh network M.

For example, each of the first device (first lighting fixture 10) and the second device (second lighting fixture 20) is a lighting fixture.

As a result, the lighting system 100 according to this embodiment can easily allow the second device, which is the second lighting fixture 20, to join the mesh network M.

Also, for example, the setting process is a process of outputting information indicating the mesh network M to the second device (second lighting device 20).

As a result, information indicating the mesh network M is stored in the second lighting device 20, and the second lighting device 20 can more reliably participate in the mesh network M.

For example, the information terminal 30 outputs the proxy request information after performing a process of associating the installation position of the second device (second lighting device 20) with identification information that identifies the second device.

This allows configuration processing to be performed for the second lighting device 20 associated with the installation location and identification information, making it easier to have the second lighting device 20 join the mesh network M.

As described above, the information terminal 30 includes a communication unit (terminal communication unit 33) and a control unit 34. The communication unit wirelessly communicates with a first device (first lighting device 10) that can join the mesh network M. The control unit 34 performs the following process when the first device has joined the mesh network M and the second device (second lighting device 20) has not joined the mesh network M. In this case, the control unit 34 causes the communication unit to wirelessly output to the first device proxy request information for causing the first device to perform setting processing to allow the second device that has not joined the mesh network M to join the mesh network M.

In this embodiment, one of the multiple first lighting fixtures 10 performs a setting process operation as a proxy for the information terminal 30, and causes the target second lighting fixture 20 to join the mesh network M. As a result, even if the installer moves and the distance between the information terminal 30 and the target second lighting fixture 20 increases while the proxy device, the first lighting fixture 10, is performing the setting process operation, the target second lighting fixture 20 can be allowed to join the mesh network M. More specifically, even if the installer moves after the processing of step S36, in order to associate other second lighting fixtures 20 that are not the target second lighting fixture 20, the target second lighting fixture 20 can be allowed to join the mesh network M.

In other words, the information terminal 30 according to this embodiment can easily allow the second lighting device 20 to join the mesh network M.

For example, the information terminal 30 further includes a display unit 32. The display unit 32 displays a map image 32m or a list 32L. The map image 32m shows the installation positions of the second device (second lighting device 20) to be included in the mesh network M and the first device (first lighting device 10) that wirelessly communicates with the second device. The list 32L extracts the first device that wirelessly communicates with the second device.

This makes it easier for the installer, who is an example of a user U, to recognize the first lighting device 10 that is in wireless communication with the target second lighting device 20.

For example, the information terminal 30 also includes a reception unit (operation reception unit 31). The reception unit receives an operation to select a first device for which setting processing is to be performed from one or more first devices (first lighting fixtures 10) shown in the map image 32m or one or more first devices extracted in the list 32L. The control unit 34 causes the communication unit to output proxy request information to the first device selected by the received operation.

This allows the installer, who is an example of a user U, to select the first lighting device 10 for which the setting process will be performed.

For example, the target second device (second lighting device 20) is a lighting device. When the selected first device (first lighting device 10) performs the setting process, the control unit 34 causes the selected first device to output unique lighting information that is unique to the target second device.

As a result, the second lighting device 20, which is the second device, controls turning the light on, off, or dimming by referring to the unique lighting information.

Furthermore, for example, the display unit 32 displays that the first device (first lighting device 10) is performing a setting process and that the target second device (second lighting device 20) is performing a setting process, and/or the progress of the setting process.

This makes it easier for the installer, who is an example of a user U, to recognize that the setting process is being performed and/or the progress of the setting process.

For example, when the setting process is completed, the information terminal 30 acquires setting completion information indicating that the setting process is completed, which is output from the first device (first lighting fixture 10) that performed the setting process. When the setting completion information is acquired, the display unit 32 changes and displays the icon indicating the target second device (second lighting fixture 20) in the map image 32m.

This makes it easier for the installer, who is an example of a user U, to recognize that the setup process has been completed.

For example, the map image 32m also shows information indicating the importance of each of one or more second devices (second lighting devices 20). The setting process is performed with priority on second devices with higher importance.

The second lighting device 20 with high importance is, for example, a second lighting device 20 located on the communication path. By performing the setting process preferentially for the second lighting device 20 with high importance, communication via the mesh network M is less likely to be interrupted, and the stability of communication is improved.

For example, the second device (second lighting device 20) with high importance is a gateway device.

The second lighting device 20, which is a gateway device, is a second lighting device 20 located on the communication path, similar to the other parts shown in FIG. 8 and the like. Therefore, by prioritizing the setting process for the second lighting device 20 (gateway device) which has a high level of importance, communication via the mesh network M is less likely to be interrupted, and the stability of communication is improved.

For example, in the map image 32m, if some of the one or more second devices (second lighting fixtures 20) are installed close together and other parts of the one or more second devices are installed between the some and the first device (first lighting fixture 10), the second device with higher importance is the other parts.

The other part is the second lighting fixture 20 located on the communication path connecting the first lighting fixture 10 and the part. Therefore, the second lighting fixture 20 with higher importance is set as the other part, and the setting process is performed preferentially on the second lighting fixture 20 with higher importance, so that communication via the mesh network M is less likely to be interrupted and communication stability is improved.

The control method is a control method performed by an equipment system. The equipment system includes a first device (first lighting fixture 10) capable of participating in a mesh network M, a second device (second lighting fixture 20) capable of participating in the mesh network M, and an information terminal 30 that wirelessly communicates with the first device. The control method performs the following processing when the first device has already participated in the mesh network M and the second device (second lighting fixture 20) has not yet participated in the mesh network M. In this case, the control method includes a step in which the information terminal 30 outputs, via wireless communication, to the first device, proxy request information for causing the first device to perform a setting process for allowing the second device to participate in the mesh network M. The control method also includes a step in which the first device performs a setting process indicated by the proxy request information acquired from the information terminal 30.

In this embodiment, one of the multiple first lighting fixtures 10 performs a setting process operation as a proxy for the information terminal 30, and causes the target second lighting fixture 20 to join the mesh network M. As a result, even if the installer moves and the distance between the information terminal 30 and the target second lighting fixture 20 increases while the proxy device, the first lighting fixture 10, is performing the setting process operation, the target second lighting fixture 20 can be allowed to join the mesh network M. More specifically, even if the installer moves after the processing of step S36, in order to associate other second lighting fixtures 20 that are not the target second lighting fixture 20, the target second lighting fixture 20 can be allowed to join the mesh network M.

In other words, the control method according to this embodiment makes it easy for the second lighting device 20 to join the mesh network M.

Other Embodiments
Although the embodiment has been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment.

For example, in the above embodiment, a MAC address is given as an example of identification information, but the identification information is not limited to a MAC address as long as it can uniquely identify the lighting fixture.

The communication method between devices described in the above embodiment is just an example. The communication method between devices is not particularly limited. The wireless communication between devices may be, for example, wireless communication using a communication standard such as specific low-power radio, ZigBee (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), or Wi-Fi (registered trademark). Specifically, the wireless communication may be radio wave communication or infrared communication.

When the first lighting fixture 10, which is the proxy device, is performing the setting process (i.e., steps S38 and S40), an example of a change in the lighting state of the light source 12 or the light source 22 is, but is not limited to, the blinking of the light source 12 or the light source 22. "The lighting state of the light source 12 changes" may mean that the light source 12 alternates between emitting strong light and weak light, that the light source 12 continues to emit weak light after emitting strong light, or that the light source 12 is completely turned off. Similarly, "the lighting state of the light source 22 changes" may mean that the light source 22 alternates between emitting strong light and weak light, that the light source 22 continues to emit weak light after emitting strong light, or that the light source 22 is completely turned off.

The following describes a case where the first device and the second device are not the first lighting fixture 10 and the second lighting fixture 20, respectively, but an environmental sensor or a camera, etc. Even in this case, the first device has a light source whose lighting state changes when the setting process is being performed, and the second device has a light source whose lighting state changes when the setting process is being performed by the first device. The light sources possessed by the first device and the second device do not need to be lamps for illuminating the indoor space, but may be small light sources (such as indicator lamps) that allow the installer to check the changes in the lighting state of the light source during the setting process.

In addition, in the above embodiment, the processing performed by a specific processing unit may be executed by another processing unit. Also, the order of multiple processes may be changed, and multiple processes may be executed in parallel.

In addition, in the above embodiment, components such as the control unit 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, components such as the control unit may be realized by hardware. For example, components such as the control unit may be circuits (or integrated circuits). 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, device, method, integrated circuit, computer program, or computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM. Also, the present invention may be realized as any combination of a system, device, method, integrated circuit, computer program, and recording medium. For example, the present invention may be realized as a program for causing an information terminal to execute a setting method, or as a non-transitory recording medium on which such a program is recorded. Note that such programs include application programs for operating a general-purpose information terminal as the information terminal of the above-mentioned embodiment.

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.

12, 22 Light source 30 Information terminal 32 Display unit 32L List 32m Map image M, M1, M2, M3 Mesh network P1, P2, P3, P4, P5, P6, P7, P8, P9, P10, P11, P12, P21, P31, P32, P33, P34, P35, P36, P37, P41, P51, P52, P53, P54, P55, P61, P62, P63, P64, P65, P71, P72, P73, P74, P75, P101, P102, P103, P104, P111, P112, P113, P114, P121 Installation position

Claims (17)

A first device and a second device each capable of joining a mesh network;
an information terminal that wirelessly communicates with the first device,
when the first device has joined the mesh network and the second device has not joined the mesh network, the information terminal outputs, to the first device, proxy request information for causing the first device to perform a setting process for causing the second device to join the mesh network, using the wireless communication;
The first device performs the setting process indicated by the proxy request information acquired from the information terminal,
The setting process is a process in which the first device outputs information indicating the mesh network, which is included in the proxy request information acquired by the first device, to the second device.
Equipment systems. The equipment system according to claim 1 , wherein the first equipment has a light source whose lighting state changes when the setting process is being performed. The equipment system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second equipment has a light source whose lighting state changes when the setting process is being performed by the first equipment. one or more of the first devices each of which wirelessly communicates with the second device to be included in the mesh network and outputs an output signal to the information terminal;
The equipment system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the information terminal causes the first device that outputs the output signal that has the highest received signal strength for the information terminal to perform the setting process for allowing the target second device to join the mesh network. The equipment system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first equipment acquires identification information for identifying the second equipment output by the second equipment, and outputs the acquired identification information to the information terminal. The equipment system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein each of the first equipment and the second equipment is a lighting fixture. The equipment system according to any one of claims 1 to 6 , wherein the information terminal outputs the proxy request information after performing a process of matching the installation location of the second equipment with identification information that identifies the second equipment. A communication unit that wirelessly communicates with a first device that can join the mesh network;
a control unit that, when the first device has joined the mesh network and the second device has not joined the mesh network, causes the communication unit to output, to the first device using the wireless communication, proxy request information for causing the first device to perform a setting process for causing the second device to join the mesh network ;
The setting process is a process in which the first device outputs information indicating the mesh network, which is included in the proxy request information acquired by the first device, to the second device.
Information terminal. 9. The information terminal according to claim 8, further comprising a display unit that displays a map image showing installation positions of the second device to be joined to the mesh network and the first device that wirelessly communicates with the second device, or a list in which the first devices that wirelessly communicate with the second device are extracted. a reception unit that receives an operation of selecting a first device to be subjected to the setting process from among the one or more first devices shown in the map image or the one or more first devices extracted in the list,
The information terminal according to claim 9 , wherein the control unit causes the communication unit to output the proxy request information to the first device selected by the received operation. the second device of the target is a lighting fixture,
The information terminal according to claim 10 , wherein when the selected first device performs the setting process, the control unit causes the selected first device to output unique lighting information unique to the target second device. The information terminal according to any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the display unit displays that the first device is performing the setting process and that the setting process is being performed on the target second device, and/or the progress of the setting process. When the setting process is completed,
the information terminal acquires setting completion information indicating that the setting process has been completed, the setting completion information being output from the first device that has performed the setting process;
The information terminal according to any one of claims 9 to 12 , wherein the display unit, when the setting completion information is acquired, changes and displays an icon indicating the target second device on the map image. The map image shows information indicating the importance of each of the one or more second devices,
The information terminal according to any one of claims 9 to 13 , wherein the setting process is performed preferentially for the second device having a high importance. The information terminal according to claim 14 , wherein the second device having high importance is a gateway device. In the map image,
Some of the one or more second devices are installed in a dense manner,
When another part of the one or more second devices is installed between the part and the first device,
The information terminal according to claim 14 , wherein the second device having a higher importance is the other unit. A control method performed by an equipment system, comprising:
The equipment system comprises:
A first device and a second device each capable of joining a mesh network;
an information terminal that wirelessly communicates with the first device,
The control method includes:
a step of, when the first device has joined the mesh network and the second device has not joined the mesh network, outputting, by the information terminal, to the first device using the wireless communication, proxy request information for causing the first device to perform a setting process for causing the second device to join the mesh network;
performing the setting process indicated by the proxy request information acquired by the first device from the information terminal ;
The setting process is a process in which the first device outputs information indicating the mesh network, which is included in the proxy request information acquired by the first device, to the second device.
Control methods.

Images