Information processing method

Abstract

An information processing method executed by an information terminal (30) includes: a first obtaining step (S16) of obtaining identification information of a plurality of lighting fixtures (10) as a response to a first request transmitted through wireless communication in a first range of a space in which the plurality of lighting fixtures (10) are disposed; and a second obtaining step (S33) of obtaining identification information of a part of the plurality of lighting fixtures (10) as a response to a second request transmitted through wireless communication in a second range of the space narrower than the first range.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an information processing method for initial settings of lighting systems, etc. Background Technology

[0002] Techniques for establishing a correlation between identification information and layout information of lighting fixtures have been proposed in the past. Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for establishing such a correlation using an operating device such as a tablet computer or smartphone.

[0003] (Existing technical literature)

[0004] (Patent Documents)

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-36400

[0006] The association established in Patent Document 1 requires the user to visually confirm the location of the lighting fixtures. For lighting fixtures located far from the user, it is difficult to determine their correct location, making it challenging to establish an association with layout information. Therefore, a method is desired that can distinguish lighting fixtures located near the operating device from other lighting fixtures. Summary of the Invention

[0007] This invention provides an information processing method that can notify users of lighting fixtures located near an information terminal.

[0008] One aspect of the present invention relates to an information processing method executed by an information terminal, the information processing method comprising: a first obtaining step, in response to a first request, obtaining identification information of a plurality of lighting fixtures, the first request being a request sent via radio wave communication within a first range of a space in which the plurality of lighting fixtures are installed; and a second obtaining step, in response to a second request, obtaining identification information of a portion of the plurality of lighting fixtures, the second request being a request sent via radio wave communication within a second range of the space that is narrower than the first range.

[0009] The information processing method of the present invention can prompt users for lighting fixtures located near the information terminal. Attached Figure Description

[0010] Figure 1 This is a block diagram illustrating the functional structure of the lighting system according to an embodiment.

[0011] Figure 2 This is a sequence diagram of the initial setup actions for the comparative example.

[0012] Figure 3 This is an example of the initial setup screen for a comparative example.

[0013] Figure 4This is a diagram showing an example of the corresponding information.

[0014] Figure 5 This is a sequence diagram of the initial setup actions for the implementation method.

[0015] Figure 6 This is an example of an initial setup screen for an implementation method.

[0016] Figure 7 This is an example of a notification screen.

[0017] Figure 8 This is an example of an initial setup screen showing multiple icons displayed in a sorted manner.

[0018] Figure 9 This is an example of a symbol selectively overlaid only on the second icon in both the first and second icons.

[0019] Figure 10 This is an example of an image showing only the second icon in a magnified view, in both the first and second icons.

[0020] Figure 11 This is an example showing an instance where only the second icon is highlighted in both the first and second icons.

[0021] Figure 12 This is an example of how the display format of the text in the first and second icons has been changed.

[0022] Figure 13 This is a flowchart of Action Example 1, which is used to restrict the execution order of the first acquisition process and the second acquisition process.

[0023] Figure 14 This is a diagram showing the first example of a notification screen used to notify that the first processing has not yet been completed.

[0024] Figure 15 This is a second example of a notification screen used to notify that the first processing has not yet been completed.

[0025] Figure 16 This is a flowchart of Action Example 2, which is used to restrict the execution order of the first acquisition process and the second acquisition process.

[0026] Figure 17 This is a flowchart of action example 3, which is used to restrict the execution order of the first acquisition process and the second acquisition process.

[0027] Figure 18 This is an example of an initial setup screen showing the state where the second execution icon is disabled.

[0028] Figure 19This is a flowchart of action example 4, which is used to restrict the execution order of the first acquisition process and the second acquisition process.

[0029] Figure 20 This is an example of the initial setup screen when the second execution icon is not displayed.

[0030] Figure 21 This is an example of an initial setup screen showing the state of the second execution icon.

[0031] Figure 22 This is a flowchart of action example 5, which is used to restrict the execution order of the first acquisition process and the second acquisition process.

[0032] Figure 23 This is a flowchart illustrating the actions of variation example 1.

[0033] Figure 24 This is a flowchart illustrating the actions of variation example 2.

[0034] Figure 25 This is the first example of a notification screen used to notify that a new MAC address has been obtained.

[0035] Figure 26 This is the second example of a notification screen used to notify users that a new MAC address has been obtained.

[0036] Figure 27 This is a diagram showing an example of an icon corresponding to a newly acquired MAC address.

[0037] Figure 28 This is a flowchart of the actions in variation example 3.

[0038] Figure 29 This is a diagram showing an example of the location where the second processing step has been performed. Detailed Implementation

[0039] The following description details the embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, the embodiments described below are merely general or specific examples illustrating this disclosure. The numerical values, shapes, materials, constituent elements, arrangement positions of constituent elements, connection methods, steps, and order of steps shown in the following embodiments are all examples and are not intended to limit the invention. Moreover, constituent elements not described in the independent technical solutions in the following embodiments are described as arbitrary constituent elements.

[0040] Furthermore, the figures are schematic diagrams, not rigorous illustrations. Additionally, substantially identical components are given the same symbols in each figure, and repetitive explanations are omitted or simplified.

[0041] (Implementation Method)

[0042] [structure]

[0043] First, the structure of the lighting system involved in the implementation method will be described. Figure 1 This is a block diagram illustrating the functional structure of a lighting system according to an embodiment. (Example) Figure 1 As shown, the lighting system 100 includes multiple lighting fixtures 10, lighting controllers 20, information terminals 30, and communication connectors 40. Additionally, the lighting system 100 may include multiple lighting controllers 20.

[0044] First, let's describe the lighting fixture 10. The lighting fixture 10 is installed on the ceiling of an indoor space and serves as a basic light source for illuminating that space. The lighting is controlled by a lighting controller 20. Communication between the lighting fixture 10 and the lighting controller 20 can be wireless or wired. Furthermore, the form of the lighting fixture 10 is not particularly limited; it can be a ceiling light, downlight, or spotlight, etc.

[0045] The lighting controller 20 will now be described. Based on user operations on the information terminal 30, the lighting controller 20 sends control commands to at least a portion of the plurality of lighting fixtures 10, thereby controlling the illumination of at least a portion of the plurality of lighting fixtures 10. Specifically, the lighting controller 20 controls the illumination of at least a portion of the plurality of lighting fixtures 10 based on control instruction signals received from the information terminal 30. This illumination control includes lighting on / off control, dimming control, and color temperature control, etc. Communication between the lighting controller 20 and the lighting fixtures 10 is, for example, wireless communication (specifically, radio wave communication). The communication standard for this wireless communication is, for example, Wi-Fi (registered trademark).

[0046] The structure of the information terminal 30 will now be described. The information terminal 30 accepts user input and, in accordance with the accepted input, sends control commands to the lighting controller 20. The information terminal 30 may be a portable terminal such as a smartphone, tablet, or personal digital assistant (PDA). Alternatively, the information terminal 30 may be a dedicated remote controller used by the lighting system 100. The information terminal 30 includes an operation receiving unit 31, a display unit 32, a wireless communication unit 33, a control unit 34, a storage unit 35, and an accelerometer sensor 36. Furthermore, the information terminal 30 is connected to a communication connector 40.

[0047] The operation receiving unit 31 accepts user operations. Specifically, the operation receiving unit 31 is implemented through a touch screen or the like.

[0048] The display unit 32 is a display device that displays images under the control of the control unit 34. The display unit 32 may be implemented, for example, by a liquid crystal panel or an organic electroluminescent panel.

[0049] The wireless communication unit 33 is a wireless communication circuit used for wireless communication (specifically, radio wave communication) between the information terminal 30 and the lighting controller 20. For example, the wireless communication unit 33 sends control instruction signals to the lighting controller 20.

[0050] The control unit 34 sends control instruction signals to the wireless communication unit 33 according to the user's operation received by the operation receiving unit 31. The control unit 34 can be implemented, for example, by a microcomputer, but it can also be implemented by a processor or a dedicated circuit.

[0051] The storage unit 35 is a storage device for storing control programs and the like executed by the control unit 34. The storage unit 35 is implemented, for example, by a semiconductor memory or the like.

[0052] Accelerometer 36 is a sensor used to detect the tilt and movement of the information terminal 30. Specifically, accelerometer 36 is a triaxial accelerometer, etc. However, accelerometer 36 here refers to an accelerometer in a broader sense, including tilt sensors that measure tilt using accelerometers, etc.

[0053] The communication connector 40 is a device that connects to the information terminal 30 in a freely detachable manner, and it provides the information terminal 30 with communication capabilities that limit the range of radio waves. The communication connector 40 connects, for example, to a USB (Universal Serial Bus) port on the information terminal 30. The communication connector 40 includes a wireless communication unit 41. The communication specifications for wireless communication performed by the wireless communication unit 41 are, for example, 920MHz band wireless (specific low-power wireless).

[0054] [Initial Setting Actions (Comparative Example)]

[0055] The initial setup actions involved in the comparative example will be explained next. Figure 2 This is a sequence diagram of the initial setup actions for the comparative example. Figure 2 The initial setup action, for example, is performed by the installer after setting up multiple lighting fixtures 10 on the ceiling. The installer is an example of a user.

[0056] First, the operation receiving unit 31 of the information terminal 30 receives a start operation (S11) to instruct the user to begin the initial setting operation. The operation receiving unit 31 may receive the start operation from the user, for example.

[0057] The control unit 34 displays an initial setting screen, including a map image, to the display unit 32 (S12) based on the start operation received by the operation receiving unit 31. Figure 3 This is an example of the initial setup screen for a comparative example. The map image at 32m is a view from above of an area where multiple lighting fixtures 10 are installed. Figure 3 In the example, the locations of the lighting fixtures P1 to P6 are represented by circles. In other words, map image 32m is an image showing the locations of multiple lighting fixtures 10. Furthermore, in Figure 3 The multiple icons 32a in the initial setting screen are not actually displayed at step S12, but are displayed in step S17, which will be described later.

[0058] Furthermore, based on the start operation received by the operation receiving unit 31, the control unit 34 causes the wireless communication unit 33 to send a request for a MAC (Media Access Control) address (S13). The MAC address request is broadcast to multiple lighting fixtures 10 via the lighting controller 20 (S14).

[0059] Each of the multiple lighting fixtures 10, upon receiving a request for a MAC address, sends its own MAC address as a response to the request (S15). The MAC address is relayed through the lighting controller 20 and obtained by the wireless communication unit 33 (S16). The obtained MAC address is stored in the storage unit 35.

[0060] When the control unit 34 obtains multiple MAC addresses via the wireless communication unit 33, it displays multiple icons 32a corresponding one-to-one with the multiple MAC addresses on the initial setting screen (S17). The multiple icons 32a are icons that the setter can use to select multiple MAC addresses and become the operation objects of the setter.

[0061] Next, the receiving unit 31 accepts selection operations from multiple icons 32a (S18). A selection operation is, for example, a tap on any one of the multiple icons 32a. The control unit 34, based on the selection operation received by the receiving unit 31, causes the wireless communication unit 33 to send a light-on / off command (S19). The light-on / off command specifies the MAC address corresponding to the selected icon 32a. The light-on / off command is a signal that selectively turns on / off the lighting fixtures 10 with that MAC address from among the multiple lighting fixtures 10. The light-on / off command is relayed by the lighting controller 20 and received by each of the multiple lighting fixtures 10 (S20).

[0062] Among the multiple lighting fixtures 10, the lighting fixture 10 that has the MAC address specified by the on / off command (i.e. the lighting fixture 10 that becomes the object of the on / off command) turns on or off when it receives the on / off command (S21).

[0063] The user operating the information terminal 30 visually confirms the actual location of the on / off lighting fixture 10 (S22) and selects a location on the map image 32m for the on / off lighting fixture 10 (e.g., any one of locations P1 to P6). The operation receiving unit 31 receives the selection operation of the location of the lighting fixture 10 within the map image 32m from the user (S23). Then, the control unit 34 establishes a correspondence between the MAC address represented by the icon 32a selected in step S18 and the location selected in step S23, and stores it in the storage unit 35 (S24). Furthermore, the control unit 34 de-displays the icon 32a that has already established a correspondence (S25). In other words, the number of multiple icons 32a displayed in step S17 is reduced by one.

[0064] The processing from step S18 to step S25 is repeated until the correspondence between all icons 32a (MAC addresses) and their settings is established. As a result, the correspondence information is stored in the storage unit 35, which represents the correspondence between the MAC addresses of multiple lighting fixtures 10 and their settings. Figure 4 This is a diagram showing an example of the corresponding information.

[0065] When the corresponding information is stored in the storage unit 35, the lighting system 100 is designated to a set location by displaying a map image on the information terminal 30, thereby enabling the lighting fixture 10 set at that location to be controlled to emit light.

[0066] [Initial setup actions involved in the implementation method]

[0067] As explained in step S22 above, the actual installation location of the lighting fixture 10 is checked against its location on the map image 32m by the installer visually. However, in situations where there are hundreds to thousands of lighting fixtures 10 installed in a large space, the lighting fixtures 10 that are on or off are far from the installer, making it difficult for the installer to determine the correct installation location of the lighting fixtures 10 that are on or off.

[0068] To address this issue, the following configuration can be devised: when sending a MAC address request, the range of radio wave transmission is narrowed, thereby displaying only the icons of the lighting fixtures 10 located near the information terminal 30. However, with this configuration, it is impossible to ascertain the total number of lighting fixtures 10 installed in the indoor space, or whether all of the lighting fixtures 10 are properly installed (e.g., whether all of the lighting fixtures 10 are in a wireless communication capability), and thus, the overall quality of the installation cannot be assessed.

[0069] Therefore, in the lighting system 100, the MAC address is obtained by treating all of the multiple lighting fixtures 10 as objects, and further, the MAC address is obtained only by treating the lighting fixtures 10 near the information terminal 30 as objects. Figure 5 This is a sequence diagram of the initial setup actions in this embodiment.

[0070] The processing of steps S11 to S16 is as described above. After step S16, the control unit 34 stores the MAC address obtained through the wireless communication unit 33 into the storage unit 35 (S31).

[0071] Next, the control unit 34 causes the wireless communication unit 41 of the communication connector 40, which is connected to the information terminal 30, to send a MAC address request (S32). The MAC address request is broadcast to multiple lighting fixtures 10 via the wireless communication unit 41.

[0072] The wireless communication unit 41 restricts the range of radio waves by adjusting the power transmission or the directionality of the antenna. In step S14 described above, the lighting controller 20 sends a MAC address request via radio wave communication within a first range of the indoor space (e.g., approximately the entire range of the indoor space). In step S32, the wireless communication unit 41 sends a MAC address request via radio wave communication within a second range of the indoor space that is narrower than the first range (e.g., near the information terminal 30).

[0073] Each of the multiple lighting fixtures 10, upon receiving a request for a MAC address, sends its own MAC address as a response to the request. The MAC address is obtained via the wireless communication unit 33 (S33). The obtained MAC address is stored in the storage unit 35 (S34).

[0074] The control unit 34 displays multiple icons corresponding to the multiple MAC addresses in the display unit 32 (S35) based on the multiple MAC addresses stored in the storage unit 35 in step S31 and the multiple MAC addresses stored in the storage unit 35 in step S34.

[0075] In step S35, the first icon and the second icon are displayed in different forms. The first icon is the icon corresponding to the MAC address obtained only in step S16 in both steps S16 and S33, and the second icon is the icon corresponding to the MAC address obtained in both steps S16 and S33. Figure 6 This is an example of the initial setup screen in this embodiment.

[0076] It can be said that icon 32a1 represents a lighting fixture 10 located far from the information terminal 30, and icon 32a2 represents a lighting fixture 10 located near the information terminal 30. In other words, icon 32a2 is suitable for the installer to visually confirm the location, while icon 32a1 is not suitable for the installer to visually confirm the location. Therefore, in Figure 6 In the example, the first icon 32a1 is displayed in gray, and the second icon 32a2 is displayed in color.

[0077] By distinguishing the icons of lighting fixtures 10 located near the information terminal 30 from those located far from it, the installer can select only the icons of lighting fixtures 10 located near the information terminal 30 that are easily visually identifiable to establish a mapping between MAC addresses and installation locations. In other words, the installer can efficiently establish the mapping between MAC addresses and installation locations.

[0078] Furthermore, the selection operation for icon 32a1 can be considered invalid, but it can also be considered valid. Additionally, if the selection operation for icon 32a1 is valid and the user has performed this selection operation, a notification screen will pop up (overlapping display) to inform the user that the lighting fixture 10 corresponding to icon 32a1 is located at a distance (where the correct location is highly unlikely). Figure 7 This diagram illustrates an example of such a notification screen. Such a notification screen helps prevent users from mistakenly selecting the first icon 32a1.

[0079] Furthermore, icon 32a1 may not be displayed. In the initial setup screen, at least the total number of multiple lighting fixtures 10 (in other words, the number of icons 32a1) should be displayed. Figure 6 The multiple icons 32a are displayed at the right end of the list, and the second icon 32a2 is displayed.

[0080] Furthermore, the control unit 34 prioritizes the display of the second icon 32a2 among the multiple icons 32a (arranged display). Figure 8 This is an example of an initial setup screen showing multiple icons displayed in a sorted order. Figure 8 In the example, the second icon 32a2 is concentrated on the left side of the display section 32. This makes the selection of the second icon 32a2 easier.

[0081] Furthermore, when multiple icons 32a are displayed, if the MAC address acquisition process of steps S13 to S16 and S31 described above is performed again (hereinafter also referred to as the first acquisition process), the multiple icons 32a displayed immediately before the first acquisition process is performed are updated.

[0082] [Examples of variations in icon display]

[0083] Furthermore, icons 32a1 and 32a2 can be distinguished simply by their different display formats. Below are examples of variations in the display formats of icons 32a1 and 32a2.

[0084] For example, one of the icons 32a1 (first icon) and 32a2 (second icon) can have a logo superimposed on it. Figure 9 This diagram illustrates an example where a mark is selectively overlaid only on the second icon in both the first and second icons. Alternatively, although not illustrated, a mark may also be selectively overlaid only on the first icon 32a1 in both the first icon 32a1 and the second icon 32a2.

[0085] In addition, icons 1 (32a1) and 2 (32a2) can be resized (dimensioned). Figure 10 This diagram shows an example where only icon 2 is enlarged in both icon 1 and icon 2. Alternatively, although not illustrated, icon 1 32a1 can also be enlarged in both icon 1 32a1 and icon 2 32a2.

[0086] Alternatively, one of the first icon 32a1 and the second icon 32a2 could be on or off. Figure 11 This diagram illustrates an example where only icon 32a2 is on and off among icons 32a1 and 32a2. Alternatively, although not illustrated, only icon 32a1 may be on and off among icons 32a1 and 32a2. Furthermore, both icons 32a1 and 32a2 may be on and off with different on / off periods.

[0087] Furthermore, when both icon 32a1 and icon 32a2 contain text information, the display style of the text (font, text thickness, or text color, etc.) can be changed. Figure 12 This is an example of how the display format of the text in the first icon 32a1 and the second icon 32a2 has been changed.

[0088] [Example 1 of actions used to restrict the execution order of MAC address acquisition processing]

[0089] In the MAC address acquisition process in steps S13-S16 and S31 above (which can also be referred to as the first acquisition process), by... Figure 6 The initial setup screen displays the first execution icon 32b, which is then clicked to execute the process. Similarly, in the MAC address acquisition process (which can also be referred to as the second acquisition process) in steps S32-S34 above, the process involves... Figure 6The initial setup screen displays the second execution icon 32c, which is then clicked to execute the process. Preferably, the process begins by establishing a mapping between the identification information of the lighting fixtures 10 around the user and their installation location, after the user has a grasp of the total number of lighting fixtures 10 included in the lighting system 100. In other words, it is preferable to perform the second acquisition process after the first acquisition process.

[0090] Example 1 illustrates the action used to restrict the execution order of the first and second acquisition processes. Figure 13 This is a flowchart illustrating such an action example 1.

[0091] First, the operation receiving unit 31 accepts a tap operation on the second execution icon 32c (in other words, an instruction to perform the second acquisition process) (S41). When the operation receiving unit 31 accepts a tap operation on the second execution icon 32c, the control unit 34 determines whether the first acquisition process has been performed (S42).

[0092] If the control unit 34 determines that the first acquisition process has been performed ("Yes" in S42), it performs the second acquisition process (S43). Conversely, if the control unit 34 determines that the first acquisition process has not been performed, it displays a notification screen on the display unit 32 to inform the user that the first acquisition process has not yet been performed (S44), and does not perform the second acquisition process. The notification screen may, for example, pop up on the initial setup screen (overlapping display). Figure 14 This is a diagram showing a first example of a notification screen used to notify that the first processing has not yet been completed. Figure 15 This is a second example of a notification screen used to notify that the first processing has not yet been completed. Additionally, in Figure 14 In the example, the setter needs to operate on the first execution icon 32b in order to perform the first processing, but in Figure 15 In the example, by tapping the "Yes" icon in the notification screen, the first step of processing can be initiated.

[0093] In this way, if the information terminal 30 receives an instruction from the user to perform the second acquisition process before executing the first acquisition process, it will display a notification screen on the display unit 32 to indicate that the first acquisition process has not been performed. Thus, the information terminal 30 can guide the user to perform the first acquisition process before the second acquisition process.

[0094] [Example 2 of actions used to restrict the execution order of MAC address acquisition processing]

[0095] The following example illustrates the action used to restrict the execution order of the first and second processing steps. Figure 16 This is a flowchart illustrating such an action example 2.

[0096] First, the operation receiving unit 31 accepts a tap operation on the second execution icon 32c (in other words, an instruction to perform the second acquisition process) (S51). When the operation receiving unit 31 accepts a tap operation on the second execution icon 32c, the control unit 34 determines whether the first acquisition process has been performed (S52).

[0097] If the control unit 34 determines that the first acquisition process has been executed ("Yes" in S52), it executes the second acquisition process (S53). On the other hand, if the control unit 34 determines that the first acquisition process has not been executed, it executes the first acquisition process (S54) and then executes the second acquisition process (S53).

[0098] In this way, if the information terminal 30 receives an operation instructing it to perform a second acquisition process via the operation receiving unit 31 before performing the first acquisition process, the second acquisition process will be performed after the first acquisition process. In other words, the first acquisition process can be performed automatically. The information terminal 30 can guide the user to perform the first acquisition process before the second acquisition process.

[0099] [Example 3 of actions used to restrict the execution order of MAC address acquisition processing]

[0100] The following example 3 illustrates the action used to restrict the execution order of the first and second processing steps. Figure 17 This is a flowchart illustrating such an action example 3.

[0101] In action example 3, during the period until the first processing is executed, the second execution icon 32c is displayed in gray (S61), and the operation on the second execution icon 32c is considered invalid (S62). Figure 18 This is an example of an initial setup screen in such a state.

[0102] In this state, the operation receiving unit 31 accepts a tap operation on the first execution icon 32b (in other words, instructs the execution of the second acquisition process) (S63). When the operation receiving unit 31 accepts the tap operation on the first execution icon 32b, the control unit 34 executes the first acquisition process (S64), changing the second execution icon 32c from gray display to color display (S65). After this, the control unit 34 considers the operation on the second execution icon 32c to be valid (S66).

[0103] In this way, before performing the first acquisition process, the information terminal 30 considers the operation on the second execution icon 32c as ineffective. Thus, the information terminal 30 can perform the first acquisition process before the second acquisition process.

[0104] [Example 4 of actions used to restrict the execution order of MAC address acquisition processing]

[0105] The following example 4 illustrates the action used to restrict the execution order of the first and second processing steps. Figure 19 This is a flowchart illustrating such an action example 4.

[0106] In action example 4, during the period until the first processing is executed, the first execution icon 32b is displayed, but the second execution icon 32c is not displayed (S71). Figure 20 This is an example of an initial setup screen showing such a state.

[0107] In this state, the operation receiving unit 31 accepts a tap operation on the first execution icon 32b (in other words, instructs the execution of the second acquisition process) (S72). When the operation receiving unit 31 accepts a tap operation on the first execution icon 32b, the control unit 34 executes the first acquisition process (S73) and displays the second execution icon 32c (S74). Figure 21 This is an example of an image showing the initial setup screen of the second execution icon 32c. Additionally, in Figure 21 In the example, the second execution icon 32c is displayed in place of the first execution icon 32b in the initial setup screen, but the second execution icon 32c can also be displayed in addition to the first execution icon 32b.

[0108] After performing the first acquisition process, the information terminal 30 displays a second execution icon 32c on the display unit 32. This second execution icon 32c is an icon that instructs the information terminal 30 to perform the second acquisition process through the user's operation. Thus, the information terminal 30 can perform the first acquisition process before the second acquisition process.

[0109] [Example 5 of actions used to restrict the execution order of MAC address acquisition processing]

[0110] The following example 5 illustrates the action used to restrict the execution order of the first and second processing steps. Figure 22 This is a flowchart illustrating such an action example 5.

[0111] In Action Example 5, the period displayed by the second execution icon 32c in Action Example 4 is further restricted.

[0112] like Figure 20As shown, when the second execution icon 32c is not displayed (S81), the operation receiving unit 31 accepts a tap operation on the first execution icon 32b (in other words, an instruction to perform the second acquisition process) (S82). When the operation receiving unit 31 accepts a tap operation on the first execution icon 32b, the control unit 34 performs the first acquisition process (S83) and displays the second execution icon 32c (S84).

[0113] Next, the control unit 34 determines whether a certain period of time has elapsed since the execution of the first acquisition process (in other words, the display of the second execution icon 32c) (S85). If the control unit 34 determines that a certain period of time has elapsed since the execution of the first acquisition process (in other words, since the display of the second execution icon) ("No" in S85), it continues to display the second execution icon 32c (S84). On the other hand, if the control unit 34 determines that a certain period of time has elapsed since the execution of the first acquisition process (in other words, since the display of the second execution icon) ("Yes" in S85), it deactivates the display of the second execution icon 32c (S86) and deletes the MAC address obtained in the first acquisition process in step S83 and stored in the storage unit 35 (S87). In other words, the user restarts from the first acquisition process.

[0114] After performing the first acquisition process, the information terminal 30 displays the second execution icon 32c on the display unit 32 for a certain period of time, and then de-displays the second execution icon 32c after a certain period of time. Furthermore, the information terminal 30 deletes the MAC address obtained and stored in the storage unit 35 during the first acquisition process. Thus, the information terminal 30 is able to perform both the first and second acquisition processes within a certain period of time.

[0115] [Variation Example 1]

[0116] After performing the first acquisition process and the second acquisition process in that order, if the first acquisition process is performed again, the MAC address stored in the storage unit 35 through the second acquisition process can be deleted. In other words, the second acquisition process can be reset. Figure 23 This is a flowchart illustrating the action of such a variation 1.

[0117] When the control unit 34 receives an operation triggered by the operation on the first execution icon 32b, it executes the first acquisition process (S91). When it receives an operation triggered by the operation on the second execution icon 32c, it executes the second acquisition process (S92). Then, when the first acquisition process is executed again triggered by the operation on the first execution icon 32b (S93), the MAC address obtained in the second acquisition process in step S92 and stored in the storage unit 35 is deleted (S94). In other words, the MAC address obtained through the second acquisition process is reset.

[0118] In this way, if the information terminal 30 executes the first acquisition process again after the second acquisition process (including the process of storing the MAC address in the storage unit 35), the MAC address stored in the second acquisition process will be deleted. Therefore, if, for example, the first acquisition process is started in a different location, the result (MAC address) of the second acquisition process executed in the previous location is automatically deleted. In other words, the information terminal 30 can support the efficiency of the installer's work.

[0119] In the case of performing the first acquisition process again, the multiple icons 32a that were displayed immediately before the first acquisition process are updated.

[0120] [Variation Example 2]

[0121] As described above, the first acquisition process targets all lighting fixtures 10, while the second acquisition process targets only a portion of the lighting fixtures 10. Therefore, the MAC address obtained in the second acquisition process must include the MAC address obtained in the first acquisition process. However, irregular situations sometimes occur when communication conditions are poor. The operation in a modified example 2, which assumes such irregular situations, will be described below. Figure 24 This is a flowchart illustrating the action of such a variation 2.

[0122] The control unit 34 executes the first acquisition process (S101) triggered by receiving an operation for the first execution icon 32b, and executes the second acquisition process (S102) triggered by receiving an operation for the second execution icon 32c. Then, the control unit 34 compares the MAC address obtained in the first acquisition process with the MAC address obtained in the second acquisition process (S103), and determines whether the MAC address obtained in the second acquisition process includes a MAC address not obtained in the first acquisition process (S104).

[0123] If it is determined that the MAC address obtained in the second acquisition process does not contain a MAC address that was not obtained in the first acquisition process ("No" in S104), the operation ends. On the other hand, if it is determined that the MAC address obtained in the second acquisition process contains a MAC address that was not obtained in the first acquisition process ("Yes" in S104), the control unit 34 displays a notification screen to the display unit 32 to notify the user that a new MAC address has been obtained (S105). The notification screen may pop up and display (overlay display) on the initial setting screen, for example. Figure 25 This is the first example of a notification screen used to notify users of a new MAC address. Figure 26 This is the second example of such a notification screen.

[0124] In addition, Figure 25 In the example, tapping the "OK" icon in the notification screen registers a new MAC address as the MAC address obtained through the first processing step. Figure 26 In the example, the "Yes" icon in the notification screen is tapped, thus re-executing the first processing step.

[0125] If the MAC address obtained in the second acquisition process includes a MAC address that was not obtained in the first acquisition process, the information terminal 30 will display a second notification screen on the display unit 32 to notify the user of this. This allows the user to easily identify that a new MAC address has been obtained.

[0126] In addition, in the display list of multiple icons 32a, the icon corresponding to the newly obtained MAC address can be displayed in a form that is different from both the first icon 32a1 and the second icon 32a2. Figure 27 This diagram shows an example of the icon 32a3 corresponding to the newly acquired MAC address. This allows the user to easily identify the icon corresponding to the newly acquired MAC address.

[0127] [Variation Example 3]

[0128] In the process of establishing a correspondence between the MAC address and the setting location, the user moves around the indoor space while repeatedly operating the information terminal 30 and performing the second acquisition process. Here, the location within the indoor space that indicated the execution of the second acquisition process can be stored as a record in the storage unit 35 and displayed according to the user's request. Figure 28 This is a flowchart illustrating the action of such a variation 3.

[0129] First, the operation receiving unit 31 accepts a tap operation for the second execution icon 32c (S111). When the operation receiving unit 31 accepts a tap operation for the second execution icon 32c, the control unit 34 performs the second acquisition process (S112).

[0130] At this time, the control unit 34 calculates the current position of the information terminal 30 (S113). For example, when multiple wireless communication devices with known installation positions are installed in an indoor space, the control unit 34 can calculate (estimate) the current position of the information terminal 30 based on the received signal strength of the signals (radio waves) emitted by each of the multiple wireless communication devices. Furthermore, the signals (radio waves) emitted by the multiple wireless communication devices can be received by the wireless communication unit 33 or the wireless communication unit 41. Alternatively, the control unit 34 can calculate the displacement from the initial position using the accelerometer 36, thereby calculating the current position of the information terminal 30.

[0131] Furthermore, the control unit 34 stores the calculated current position of the information terminal 30 as the position (position information) where the second acquisition process is being performed in the storage unit 35 (S114). Subsequently, when the operation receiving unit 31 accepts an operation requesting the display of the position where the second acquisition process is being performed (S115), the control unit 34 overlays an icon 32d representing the position where the second acquisition process is being performed on the map image 32m (S116). Figure 29 This is a diagram showing an example of where the second processing is performed.

[0132] In this way, the information terminal 30 displays the location of the information terminal 30 in the indoor space when the second acquisition process is executed. Thus, the information terminal 30 enables the installer to know the location where the second acquisition process is being performed.

[0133] [Effects, etc.]

[0134] As described above, the information processing method executed by a computer such as information terminal 30 is an information processing method executed by information terminal 30. This information processing method includes: a first obtaining step (S16, etc.), in response to a first request, obtaining identification information of a plurality of lighting fixtures 10, wherein the first request is a request sent via radio wave communication within a first range of a space in which the plurality of lighting fixtures 10 are installed; and a second obtaining step (S33, etc.), in response to a second request, obtaining identification information of a portion of the plurality of lighting fixtures 10, wherein the second request is a request sent via radio wave communication within a second range of a space narrower than the first range. Such an information processing method is shown, for example, in… Figure 5 Identification information, such as MAC addresses, is used for identification.

[0135] This information processing method obtains identification information in two radio communication sessions with different arrival ranges, thereby distinguishing and displaying the identification information of all lighting fixtures 10 in the space with the identification information of a portion of the lighting fixtures 10 located near the information terminal 30 to the user. In other words, the information processing method can prompt the user about the lighting fixtures 10 located near the information terminal 30.

[0136] Furthermore, for example, the information processing method further includes a first notification step (S44), in which, if an instruction from a user to perform a second obtaining step is received before the first obtaining step is performed, a notification screen for notifying that the first obtaining step has not yet been performed is displayed on the display unit 32. Such an information processing method is illustrated, for example, in… Figure 13 In this context, the user is, for example, the setter.

[0137] This information processing method can guide users to complete the first acquisition step before proceeding to the second acquisition step.

[0138] Furthermore, for example, if an operation receiving unit 31 receives an instruction to perform a second obtaining step before performing the first obtaining step, the second obtaining step is performed after the first obtaining step is performed. Such an information processing method is illustrated, for example, in… Figure 16 .

[0139] This information processing method can guide users to complete the first acquisition step before proceeding to the second acquisition step.

[0140] In addition, for example, the second obtaining step can be performed with the condition that the first obtaining step has been performed.

[0141] This information processing method allows the first obtaining step to be performed before the second obtaining step.

[0142] Furthermore, for example, the information processing method further includes: a first display step (S71), in which a first execution icon 32b for user operation is displayed on the display unit 32, the first execution icon 32b being an icon that instructs the information terminal 30 to perform the first obtaining step through the user's operation; and a second display step (S74), in which, after the first obtaining step is performed, a second execution icon 32c for user operation is displayed on the display unit 32, the second execution icon being an icon that instructs the information terminal 30 to perform the second obtaining step through the user's operation. Such an information processing method is illustrated, for example, in... Figure 19 .

[0143] This information processing method allows the first obtaining step to be performed before the second obtaining step.

[0144] Furthermore, for example, in the second display step (S84), after a certain period of time following the execution of the first obtaining step, the second execution icon 32c is displayed on the display unit 32, and after a certain period of time, the display of the second execution icon 32c is deactivated. Such an information processing method is illustrated, for example, in… Figure 22 middle.

[0145] This information processing method allows the first and second acquisition processes to be performed within a certain period of time.

[0146] Furthermore, for example, the information processing method further includes: a first display step, in which a first execution icon 32b for user operation is displayed on the display unit 32, the first execution icon 32b being an icon that instructs the information terminal 30 to perform the first obtaining step through user operation; and a second display step (S61), in which a second execution icon 32c for user operation is displayed on the display unit 32, the second execution icon 32c being an icon that instructs the information terminal 30 to perform the second obtaining step through user operation, and before performing the first obtaining step, the operation on the second execution icon is considered invalid (S62). Such an information processing method is shown, for example, in... Figure 17 .

[0147] This information processing method allows the first obtaining step to be performed before the second obtaining step.

[0148] Furthermore, the information processing method further includes, for example, a first storage step (S91), storing the identification information obtained in the second obtaining step into the storage unit 35; and a deletion step (S94), deleting the identification information stored in the first storage step if the first obtaining step is performed again after the first storage step. Such an information processing method is illustrated, for example, in… Figure 23 .

[0149] This information processing method automatically deletes the results (identification information) of the second acquisition process each time the first acquisition process is performed, thereby supporting the efficiency of the user's work.

[0150] Furthermore, for example, the information processing method further includes a second notification step (S105), in which, if the identification information obtained in the second obtaining step includes identification information not obtained in the first obtaining step, a second notification screen for notifying this information is displayed on the display unit 32. Such an information processing method is illustrated, for example, in… Figure 24 .

[0151] This information processing method enables users to recognize that they have acquired new identification information.

[0152] Furthermore, for example, the information processing method further includes a third display step (S35), in which a first icon 32a1 and a second icon 32a2 are displayed on the display unit 32 in different forms. The first icon is used to select an icon for identification information obtained only in the first acquisition step, and the second icon is used to select an icon for identification information obtained in both the first and second acquisition steps. Such an information processing method is illustrated, for example, in… Figure 5 .

[0153] This information processing method enables users to select identification information of lighting fixtures 10 that are easily visually confirmed and located near the information terminal 30.

[0154] Furthermore, for example, if the first obtaining step is performed again after the third display step, the first icon 32a1 and the second icon 32a2 that are being displayed are updated.

[0155] This information processing method updates multiple icons 32a each time the first acquisition is processed, thereby supporting the efficiency of the user's work.

[0156] Furthermore, for example, in the third display step, multiple icons 32a, including the first icon 32a1 and the second icon 32a2, are displayed. The information processing method further includes: a fourth display step (S12), displaying a map image 32m on the display unit 32, the map image 32m being an image representing the installation positions of multiple lighting fixtures 10; a receiving step (S23), receiving selection operations of multiple icons 32a and selection operations of the installation positions of lighting fixtures 10 within the map image 32m; a second storage step (S24), establishing a correspondence between the identification information represented by the selected icon 32a and the selected installation position, and storing it according to the received selection operation; and a display deactivation step (S25), deactivating the display of the icons 32a among the multiple icons 32a that have already established a correspondence with the installation positions. Such an information processing method is shown, for example, in... Figure 5 .

[0157] Through this information processing method, users can prioritize establishing a correspondence between the installation location of the lighting fixture 10 and the location near the information terminal 30, which is easily visible to the naked eye. In other words, the information processing method can streamline the operation of establishing a correspondence between the installation location of icon 32a.

[0158] Furthermore, for example, the information processing method further includes a fifth display step (S116) to display the position of the information terminal 30 in the space at the time the second obtaining step is performed. Such an information processing method is illustrated, for example, in... Figure 28 .

[0159] This information processing method enables users to know the location where the second step is being performed.

[0160] (Other implementation methods)

[0161] The above description is based on the embodiments, but the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above.

[0162] For example, in the above implementation, the MAC address is used as an identification information. However, the identification information is not limited to the MAC address, as long as it can uniquely identify the lighting fixture.

[0163] Furthermore, the communication method between devices described in the above embodiments is just one example. There are no particular limitations on the communication method between devices.

[0164] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, the processing performed by the specific processing unit can be executed by another processing unit. Additionally, the order of multiple processes can be changed, or multiple processes can be executed in parallel.

[0165] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, the components such as the control unit can be implemented by executing software programs suitable for each component. Each component can be implemented by a program execution unit such as a CPU or processor reading and executing software programs recorded in a recording medium such as a hard disk or semiconductor memory.

[0166] Furthermore, the components of the control unit, etc., can be implemented in hardware. For example, the components of the control unit, etc., can be circuits (or integrated circuits). These circuits can be configured as a whole to form a single circuit, or they can be separate circuits. Moreover, these circuits can be general-purpose circuits or dedicated circuits.

[0167] Furthermore, the general or specific embodiments of the present invention can be implemented using systems, devices, methods, integrated circuits, computer programs, or recording media such as computer-readable CD-ROMs, or can be implemented using any combination of systems, devices, methods, integrated circuits, computer programs, and recording media. For example, the present invention can be implemented as a lighting system or information terminal as described in the above embodiments, as a program for causing an information terminal to execute an information processing method, or as a non-temporary recording medium on which such a program is recorded. Additionally, such a program includes an application program for causing a general-purpose information terminal to operate as an information terminal as described in the above embodiments.

[0168] Furthermore, any form obtained by implementing various modifications conceived by those skilled in the art in relation to the various embodiments, or any form achieved by arbitrarily combining the constituent elements and functions of the various embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present invention, is included in the present invention.

[0169] Symbol Explanation

[0170] 10 lighting fixtures

[0171] 30 Information Terminals

[0172] 31 Operation Receiving Section

[0173] 32 Display Section

[0174] 32a, 32a3 icons

[0175] 32a1 First icon

[0176] 32a2, second icon

[0177] 32b First execution icon

[0178] 32c Second Execution Icon

[0179] 32m map image

Claims

1. An information processing method, executed by an information terminal, the information processing method comprising: The first obtaining step involves obtaining identification information of multiple lighting fixtures in response to the first request, wherein the first request is a request sent via radio wave communication within a first area of ​​a space in which the multiple lighting fixtures are installed. as well as The second step, in response to the second request, involves obtaining identification information for a portion of the plurality of lighting fixtures, wherein the second request is a request transmitted via radio communication within a second range of space that is narrower than the first range. The information terminal has a display unit and an operation receiving unit for receiving user operations. The information processing method further includes a third display step, in which a first icon and a second icon are displayed on the display unit in different forms. The first icon is used to select an icon containing identification information obtained only in the first acquisition step, and the second icon is used to select an icon containing identification information obtained in both the first and second acquisition steps. The first request is a request sent within the first range via radio wave communication through the controller, wherein the controller and the information terminal are separate entities and are located in the space. The second request is a request sent within the second range via radio wave communication of the information terminal. The information processing method further includes, if the operation receiving unit receives an instruction from the user to perform the second obtaining step before performing the first obtaining step, displaying a notification screen to notify that the first obtaining step has not yet been performed on the display unit; or, performing the second obtaining step after performing the first obtaining step.

2. The information processing method as described in claim 1, The information processing method further includes: The first display step involves displaying a first execution icon for user operation on the display unit. This first execution icon is an icon that instructs the information terminal to perform the first obtaining step through the user's operation. as well as The second display step involves displaying a second execution icon for the user operation on the display unit after the first acquisition step has been performed. This second execution icon is an icon that instructs the information terminal to perform the second acquisition step through the user's operation.

3. The information processing method as described in claim 2, In the second display step, after a certain period of time following the execution of the first obtaining step, the second execution icon is displayed on the display unit, and after the certain period of time has elapsed, the display of the second execution icon is deactivated.

4. The information processing method as described in claim 1, The information processing method further includes: The first display step involves displaying a first execution icon for user operation on the display unit. This first execution icon is an icon that instructs the information terminal to perform the first obtaining step through the user's operation. as well as The second display step involves displaying a second execution icon for the user's operation on the display unit. This second execution icon is an icon that instructs the information terminal to perform the second obtaining step based on the user's operation. Before performing the first obtaining step, the operation on the second execution icon is considered invalid.

5. The information processing method as described in claim 1, The information terminal has a storage unit. The information processing method further includes: The first storage step involves storing the identification information obtained in the second acquisition step into the storage unit; as well as In the deletion step, if the first acquisition step is performed again after the first storage step, the identification information stored in the first storage step is deleted.

6. The information processing method as described in claim 1, The information processing method further includes a second notification step, in which, if the identification information obtained in the second obtaining step includes identification information not obtained in the first obtaining step, a second notification screen for notifying the recipient is displayed on the display unit.

7. The information processing method as described in claim 1, If the first obtaining step is performed again after the third display step, the first icon and the second icon that are being displayed are updated.

8. The information processing method as described in claim 1, In the third display step, multiple icons, including the first icon and the second icon, are displayed. The information processing method further includes: The fourth display step involves displaying a map image on the display unit, wherein the map image is an image showing the installation locations of the plurality of lighting fixtures; Accept the steps, including accepting the selection of the multiple icons and the selection of the location of the lighting fixtures in the map image; The second storage step involves establishing a correspondence between the identification information represented by the selected icon and the selected setting location, and storing them according to the accepted selection operation. as well as The display steps are to remove the icons that have been associated with the set positions from the list of icons.

9. The information processing method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, The information processing method further includes a fifth display step, which displays the position of the information terminal in the space when the second obtaining step is executed.

10. A recording medium having a program recorded thereon, the program being used to cause a computer to perform the information processing method according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. A computer program product comprising a program for causing a computer to perform the information processing method according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

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