System for determining a state of a sensor of a lighting device

Abstract

The present invention provides a system (100) comprising: an illumination device (1) including a sensor (4) and a light source (5), wherein the sensor (4) is configured to detect the presence in a space (10) and / or detect an emulator signal (6), wherein the light source (4) is configured to provide ultraviolet light (7) in operation and to interrupt the provision of the ultraviolet light (7) in operation when the sensor (4) detects the presence in the space (10); an emulator device (2) configured to transmit the emulator signal (6) to the sensor (4); and a controller (3) configured to: control the emulator device (2) to send the emulator signal (6) at a first moment, and determine the verification status of the sensor (4) if the sensor (4) detects the emulator signal (6) at the first moment.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a system. The system is specifically arranged for determining the state of sensors on a lighting device. The invention also relates to a system arrangement comprising multiple systems according to the system. The invention further relates to a lighting device. The invention also relates to a corresponding method for determining the state of sensors on a lighting device, and a computer program product. Background Technology

[0002] The COVID-19 pandemic has already shaken the world in 2020; however, human health and well-being have been periodically challenged by outbreaks of other viruses and bacteria, such as seasonal influenza A / B, SARS, H1N1, and MERS. Similar outbreaks have been observed in the animal kingdom, such as avian influenza (i.e., bird flu) and outbreaks of Coxiella Burnetii (i.e., Q-fever). Future outbreaks, epidemics, and pandemics cannot be ruled out.

[0003] The COVID-19 pandemic has shown its potential to cause economic recession; seasonal flu has been shown to cause recurring economic burdens; outbreaks of infectious animal diseases occasionally disrupt local animal farming; and further new diseases inevitably loom on the horizon.

[0004] Therefore, to prevent economic losses and to improve the health of people and animals, there is a clear need for devices that promote health and well-being in frequently used spaces. Ultraviolet (UV) disinfection devices can be such devices, especially when using UV-C. That is, UV disinfection devices are increasingly successfully used to disinfect surfaces and air in spaces. Applications can be found in offices, hospitals, retail stores, homes, and public spaces.

[0005] However, since the various spectra of UV irradiation used for disinfection can be harmful to humans and animals at certain exposure times and doses, such UV disinfection devices may require strict safety measures.

[0006] A common safety measure is an indicator light on the disinfection device that shows it is currently operational. Another safety measure is to use presence sensors to ensure the device shuts off when a human presence is detected in the space being disinfected.

[0007] However, such sensors are prone to failure during the lifespan of the UV disinfection device, for example, because their electronic components age and become obsolete. Therefore, it is necessary to check the proper functioning of these sensors regularly.

[0008] Furthermore, the nature of the spaces in which such sensors are located, such as offices, hospitals, and retail stores, can change frequently. This change can affect the sensor's field of view. For example, such a change can block a portion of the sensor's field of view. Even if a person might be present in the space, the sensor will not be able to detect them, and this puts the person at risk of being exposed to an unwanted dose of ultraviolet light. Therefore, there is a clear need to verify the proper functioning of these sensors and their proper functioning across their entire field of view.

[0009] US2019045180(A1) discloses a method for testing a sensor unit that locally detects the presence of a person in an image it captures. The method includes emitting a light-emitting device (e.g., a screen of a user terminal) toward the sensor unit a test pattern to be captured on a series of images, the test pattern comprising a spatiotemporal pattern of light simulating the presence of a predetermined number of people.

[0010] WO2017076715(A1) discloses a similar human sensing system that utilizes test images. Summary of the Invention

[0011] The object of this invention is to provide a system that at least mitigates the aforementioned problems and disadvantages. To this end, the invention provides a system comprising: an illumination device including a sensor and a light source, wherein the sensor is configured to detect the presence in a space and / or detect an emulator signal. The light source is configured to provide ultraviolet light during operation and to interrupt the provision of the ultraviolet light during operation when the sensor detects the presence in the space; an emulator device configured to transmit the emulator signal to the sensor; and a controller configured to: control the emulator device to transmit the emulator signal at a first moment; and determine a verification state of the sensor if the sensor detects the emulator signal at the first moment.

[0012] Therefore, since the light source is configured to provide ultraviolet light during operation, the illumination device, including the sensor and the light source, enables ultraviolet disinfection and / or ionization, and since the light source is configured to interrupt the provision of said ultraviolet light during operation when the sensor detects its presence in the space, the illumination device enables safety. The sensor may optionally be described as a presence sensor or an occupancy sensor. "During operation" may mean during the disinfection process and / or during the ionization process.

[0013] However, the system according to the invention also provides a simulator device and a controller, which controls the simulator device to send a simulator signal to the sensor at a first moment. Thus, the simulator signal is purposefully transmitted to the sensor at the first moment. The simulator device can therefore simulate the presence in space. The simulator signal can be detected by the sensor. This transmission can be advantageously used to determine the state of the sensor of the lighting device. That is, the controller is configured to determine the verification state of the sensor if the sensor detects the simulator signal at the first moment. The sensor is then tested accordingly. Therefore, the system according to the invention is capable of verifying the correct operation or function of the sensor (by determining the verification state).

[0014] The verification status indicates that the sensor is functioning normally (correctly detecting the presence in the space). However, the sensor may also malfunction. Such a state can also be determined. Therefore, in an embodiment, if the sensor does not detect the simulator signal at the first moment, the controller can be configured to determine an erroneous state of the sensor.

[0015] The system components can also advantageously respond to the determination of such an error state. Therefore, in one embodiment, the controller can be configured to output an output signal upon determining the error state. Thus, the system can determine the error state of the sensor, which can indicate incorrect sensor operation (when detected), and thereby act by outputting an output signal.

[0016] Determining the verification state or the error state can be described as verifying the correct operation of the sensor. The space detected by the sensor can be part of or included by the main space. Therefore, the system can be applied in the main space. This space can be described as the detection region. The first moment can instead be multiple first moments.

[0017] The ultraviolet light may be light having a spectral distribution that includes the ultraviolet spectrum. The light may also include additional illumination characteristics, such as intensity, modulation, color temperature, pattern, formulation, beam shape, scene, etc.

[0018] The simulator device may be battery powered. The simulator device may include means for detachably mounting the simulator device to a surface. The simulator device may be part of an optical switch, wherein the optical switch is also included in the system according to the invention.

[0019] In various aspects, the simulator device may be a portable device or part of a portable device. In various aspects, the controller may determine the position of the portable device within the sensor's field of view and then control the simulator device to send simulator signals at a first moment.

[0020] In one embodiment, the output signal can be arranged to control the lighting device to disable the light source from providing the ultraviolet light during operation. Therefore, if it is determined that the sensor may not function accordingly (detect presence), the light source to provide the ultraviolet light can be disabled during operation. This advantageously prevents the risk of operating the light source to provide ultraviolet light, while simultaneously preventing the detection of presence in the space. Therefore, the output signal can be a control signal.

[0021] Additionally or alternatively, in embodiments, the output signal may indicate an error state, wherein the controller is configured to output the signal to another device to notify the other device of the error state. Thus, upon determining that the sensor may fail to function appropriately (detect presence), this state itself may be output (or transmitted) to the other device to notify (or inform) the other device of the potential risk of incorrect sensor operation originating from the lighting device of the present invention. Therefore, the output signal may be a notification signal.

[0022] The additional device may be, for example, at least one of the following: portable device, user device, computer, smartphone, wearable device, smartwatch, smart glasses, tablet computer, building management device, maintenance server, smart lock, smart door, smart window, lighting device, switching device, server, storage device, room reservation device, vehicle, drone.

[0023] In various aspects, the controller can be configured to: upon determining the error state, control the lighting device to disable the light source from providing (or providing) the ultraviolet light during operation. In various aspects, the controller can be configured to disable the lighting device upon determining the error state. In various aspects, the controller can be configured to temporarily disable the lighting device upon determining the error state. In various aspects, the controller can be configured to have a mode that disables or temporarily disables the lighting device upon determining the error state. The mode may be, for example, a UV disinfection mode. In various aspects, the controller can be configured to enable an auxiliary sensor upon determining the error state. In various aspects, "temporarily" may mean one hour, at least one hour, one day, one week, at least one day, or at least two hours.

[0024] The ultraviolet light may include, for example, UV-A (315-400 nm), UV-B (280-315 nm), UV-C (100-280 nm), far UV, and extreme UV. More specifically, in various aspects, the spectral distribution may include at least one of the following: ultra-deep UV in the 100-190 nm range, deep UV light in the 190-220 nm range, UV-C light in the 220-280 nm range, UV-B light in the 280-315 nm range, UV-A light in the 315-400 nm range, and UV light at 254 nm. Such an ultraviolet spectrum may have been proven effective in killing infectious agents, such as viruses, bacteria, fungi, yeasts, and / or germ cells. For example, UV-C illumination has a strong bactericidal effect, which disrupts the structure of DNA in living cells.

[0025] Therefore, ultraviolet light can also be harmful to humans and animals. Accordingly, the present invention provides a lighting device, and a system including such a lighting device that operates with this hazardous ultraviolet light and includes sensors for safety. In particular, it is necessary to periodically check whether the sensors are still functioning correctly.

[0026] The ultraviolet light may alternatively be deep blue light in the 400-420 nm range, or deep blue light at 405 nm. This spectrum may also be undesirable for humans and / or animals at specific exposure times and doses.

[0027] As described above, the first moment can alternatively be multiple first moments. Therefore, verification of the sensor's correct operation can be performed continuously in time, such as periodically or according to a schedule. For example, the controller can determine the first moment based on a schedule, which could be a schedule defining when the light source is in operation. For example, the first moment could be located before the period when the light source is in operation. This ensures safety because verification is performed before the light source of the lighting device is operated, i.e., the lighting device performs, for example, a disinfection action.

[0028] In one embodiment, the sensor may be a PIR sensor, the simulator device may be an infrared light source, and the simulator signal may be an infrared light signal. Since PIR sensors are commonly used to detect the presence in space by observing the movement of people and / or animals, such sensors are suitable for the lighting device according to the invention. Therefore, the corresponding simulator device may be an infrared light source that is effective, compact, and cost-effective in operation.

[0029] Radio frequency (RF) based sensors are increasingly being used in office and / or agricultural applications. In embodiments, the sensor may be a microwave sensor, the emulator device may be an RF beacon, and the emulator signal may be an RF signal. Since microwave sensors can be effectively used to detect the presence in space by observing the movement of people and / or animals, such sensors are suitable for lighting devices according to the invention. Therefore, the corresponding emulator device may be an RF beacon that is effective in operation, compact, and widely available.

[0030] Because radio frequency beacons may already be available in space, for example as part of an asset tracking system, such radio frequency beacons can also be used as simulator devices according to the present invention.

[0031] In an embodiment, the sensor may be a light sensor, and the emulator device may be a light beacon, wherein the emulator signal may be a light signal. Since light sensors can be used generally and cost-effectively to detect the presence in a space by observing changes in illumination, such sensors are suitable for the lighting device according to the invention. Therefore, the corresponding emulator device may be a light beacon. Alternatively, the sensor may be a camera.

[0032] The light beacon can be a lamp or an illuminator. Therefore, the controller can: control the lamp or illuminator to send the light beacon at a first moment; and if the sensor detects the light beacon at the first moment, determine the sensor's verification status, and if the sensor does not detect the light beacon at the first moment, determine the sensor's error status. The lamp or illuminator may already have a first function of illuminating the space, or illuminating at least a portion of the main space including the space, wherein providing the simulator signal as the light beacon can serve a second function, facilitating the sensor's verification, and the illumination device includes the light source that provides the ultraviolet light during operation.

[0033] In various aspects, the sensor can be a thermopile sensor, the emulator device can be a thermal beacon, and the emulator signal can be a thermal signal. The thermal beacon may include a heating element. The heating element can generate heat. The heating element can provide thermal radiation. The thermal beacon can be a laser. The thermal beacon can also project a thermal signal onto a surface, for example, by projecting radiated heat onto the surface.

[0034] In each of these aspects, the sensor can be a microphone, the simulator device can be a sound source, and the simulator signal can be an audio signal.

[0035] In each aspect, the sensor can be a time-of-flight sensor, the simulator device can be a light source, and the simulator signal can be an optical signal. The optical signal from the light source can be detected by the time-of-flight sensor. For example, the optical signal from the light source can be adjusted to be the optical signal emitted by the time-of-flight sensor, and the light signal emitted by the time-of-flight sensor can be imitated to simulate the optical signal emitted by the time-of-flight sensor.

[0036] The lighting device according to the invention is suitable for ultraviolet disinfection. Ultraviolet disinfection may include the disinfection of surfaces and / or fluids in a space (or a main space including the space). The fluid may be, for example, air and / or water in the space. Thus, in one embodiment, the light source may be configured to irradiate at least a portion of the operating space with ultraviolet light during operation; or to irradiate at least a portion of the main space including the space with ultraviolet light. Therefore, the light source can directly disinfect at least a portion of the space and / or the main space. This promotes health and well-being, but may result in a higher risk of exposure to ultraviolet light. However, the risk of ultraviolet disinfection is increasingly mitigated by the system according to the invention, which determines the verification or erroneous state of a sensor that should provide a safety guarantee.

[0037] The lighting device of the system according to the invention can be a UV disinfection lighting device. In one embodiment, the lighting device can be a suspended lighting device. Such a lighting device can preferably be oriented towards the ceiling of the main space, which includes the space (where the sensor detects its presence). Thus, in one embodiment, the light source can be configured to provide ultraviolet light in the direction opposite to gravity.

[0038] In some aspects, the light source may include optical components to provide ultraviolet light in a direction opposite to gravity. The optical components may, for example, consist of lenses, reflectors, illumination rods, and / or light guides. In other aspects, the illumination device may include optical components to direct the ultraviolet light from the light source in a direction opposite to gravity.

[0039] Ultraviolet light can also be successfully used to purify air. This can be accomplished by the following steps: receiving air from the main space; purifying the air by, for example, direct exposure to disinfecting UV light and / or by UV activation to generate ozone and outputting the air back to the main space. The main space includes the space according to the invention. This concept can be applied to air purifiers (i.e., referred to as purifiers for convenience). The purifier can alternatively be a water purifier. Therefore, additionally or alternatively, the lighting device according to the invention can be adapted to house a purifier that purifies (or cleans) the air in at least a portion of the main space, wherein ultraviolet light from the light source according to the invention is used. Even though the ultraviolet light may not always be directly visible from the main space, since the ultraviolet light can be placed inside the purifier, such a device may still pose a safety risk to people and animals during operation. Therefore, the system according to the invention is also advantageous for this configuration. Thus, in one embodiment, the lighting device may include a purifier for purifying the air during operation, wherein the purifier includes a light source, wherein the ultraviolet light from the light source can purify the air.

[0040] In various aspects, the lighting device may include an ozone generator for generating ozone from the air during operation, wherein the ozone generator includes a light source, wherein the ultraviolet light of the light source can generate ozone from the air.

[0041] The system according to the invention includes: an illumination device comprising a sensor and a light source; an emulator device; and a controller. These components are operatively coupled and can interact with each other. The controller may be disposed separately from the illumination device and / or the emulator device. The controller may communicate with the illumination device and / or the emulator device via a wired connection. Alternatively, the controller may communicate with the illumination device (and sensor) and / or the emulator device via a wireless connection (such as Bluetooth, Zigbee, Wi-Fi, RF, IR, Lo-Ra, UWB, 5G, Li-Fi, VLC, etc.) or may communicate with the illumination device (and sensor) and / or the emulator device via such a wireless connection.

[0042] In one embodiment, the lighting device may include a controller. Therefore, the controller may be a local controller for the lighting device. Such a configuration prevents communication required with a remotely located controller. In other words, the lighting device may include a housing containing the controller. In such examples of different descriptions, the housing may similarly include the sensor and light source according to the invention.

[0043] In one embodiment, the space may include a surface, wherein the simulator device may be configured to project the simulator signal onto the surface. As described above, the system may include a main space, which may include the space. The main space may include the surface. Therefore, the simulator device may be configured to project the simulator signal onto a projection location on the surface. Thus, projection can occur at a first moment, as previously shown. This embodiment may be advantageous because the simulator device can transmit the simulator signal to a sensor rather than at a projection location on the surface itself, since the simulator device projects the simulator signal from another location onto the location on this surface. This provides flexibility in the positioning of the simulator device.

[0044] The surface can reflect the simulator signal. The surface makes the simulator signal visible. Therefore, the simulator signal can be, for example, a light signal or an infrared signal projected onto the surface. The surface can be a wall, ceiling, floor, door, table, window, curtains, furniture, etc. In this example embodiment, the simulator device can be, for example, a laser, and the simulator signal can be a laser signal projected onto the surface (at the projection position on the surface). Therefore, the sensor can be a PIR sensor, a camera, a thermopile sensor, or a light sensor.

[0045] The space can be monitored by a sensor according to the invention. The space can be part of a main space. The sensor can, for example, include a detection area, wherein the sensor is configured to detect the presence and / or simulator signals in the space. Therefore, the sensor can monitor its field of view. Thus, the space can be considered as the detection area or field of view.

[0046] As mentioned in some sections, the properties of spaces, such as offices, hospitals, and retail stores, can change frequently. This can also be applied to the main space according to the invention. The main space includes the space itself. Such changes can affect the sensor's field of view or its detection area. For example, a portion of the detection area or field of view can be blocked. Therefore, even if a person may be present in the space, the sensor will not be able to detect the person correctly in this situation, creating a risk of the person being exposed to an unwanted dose of ultraviolet light. This is a significant problem. Therefore, it may be advantageous to verify the correct operation of the sensor, which is effective for a large portion of the detection area or field of view.

[0047] Therefore, in one embodiment, the simulator device can be positioned at a distance from the sensor, said distance being at least two meters. Thus, verification of the sensor's correct operation is performed over the entire distance between the simulator device and the sensor. Therefore, a greater distance can better represent the space. Alternatively, the distance can be at least four meters. Alternatively, the distance can be at least eight meters or at least ten meters. In all respects, the distance is at least ten times the maximum length of the lighting device.

[0048] Therefore, the system according to the invention provides a more robust security check for the sensor. For example, if the distance between the simulator device and the sensor is two meters, the aforementioned verification can take into account (or consider) any possible obstructing objects within that specific two meters of the sensor.

[0049] Alternatively, the distance between the simulator and the sensor can be modified as necessary based on the propagation distance of the simulator signal. Therefore, the simulator signal can include the propagation distance. This is even more representative. The advantage applies similarly.

[0050] Therefore, in this example, the emulator signal may include the propagation distance between the emulator device and the sensor, wherein the emulator device is arranged such that the propagation distance is at least two meters. Alternatively, the propagation distance may be at least four meters. Alternatively, the distance may be at least eight meters or at least ten meters.

[0051] Therefore, in the example, the propagation distance of the simulator signal propagating through the space between the simulator device and the sensor can be at least two meters. Alternatively, the propagation distance can be at least four meters. Alternatively, the distance can be at least eight meters or at least ten meters. In all aspects, the propagation distance of the simulator signal propagating through the main space between the simulator device and the sensor can be at least two meters, the main space including the space.

[0052] Furthermore, in an embodiment, the space, or the main space including the space, may be depicted by a depicting surface, on which the simulator device may be arranged. Since the depicting surface defines the space or the main space, the maximum extent of these spaces can be considered in the verification of the sensor according to the invention. In one embodiment, the main space including the space comprises a surface to which the simulator device is mounted. The depicting surface or the surface may be a wall, ceiling, floor, door, table, window, curtain, furniture, etc.

[0053] In one embodiment, the simulator device may be located remotely from the lighting device. In one embodiment, the simulator device may be part of another device. In one embodiment, the system may include another device, wherein the other device includes the simulator device.

[0054] In one embodiment, the system includes a second lighting device; wherein the second lighting device includes the simulator device. Therefore, the present invention can provide a combination of a first lighting device and a second lighting device. This combination allows the second lighting device to facilitate verification of the correct operation of the sensors of the first lighting device because the second lighting device includes the simulator device. Since lighting devices are typically installed at the same height in a space, having a second lighting device that includes the simulator device may be advantageous.

[0055] In one embodiment, the lighting device may include an emulator device. Such an embodiment can be advantageous because the sensor and the emulator device can be included in (and housed in) the same lighting device. Thus, the lighting device itself is capable of autonomously performing self-testing of its included sensors.

[0056] Furthermore, in such an embodiment, the emulator device can project the emulator signal onto a surface. Therefore, the emulator signal can be transmitted to a sensor via the projection onto the surface. The emulator signal can be, for example, a laser pattern projected onto a portion of the surface in space, allowing the sensor to detect the projected laser pattern, and wherein the controller can determine the verification state when the sensor detects the projected laser pattern at a first moment.

[0057] In an embodiment, the lighting device may be a illuminator and includes a illuminator housing, wherein the illuminator housing includes a sensor, a light source, a controller, and a simulator device.

[0058] In an example where the system includes a second lighting device comprising a simulator device for the lighting fixtures, the lighting device may further include a simulator device, but this simulator device originates from another lighting device. Therefore, the system according to the invention can present a chain of lighting devices with simulator devices and sensors. The lighting devices facilitate the verification of the correct operation of the sensors of each adjacent lighting device by including the simulator devices of the adjacent lighting devices. Thus, repeatable and modular configurations can be achieved, which can be advantageously applied to lighting environments, as lighting in indoor spaces typically comprises spatially organized groups of lighting devices.

[0059] Therefore, another object of the present invention is to provide a system arrangement that at least mitigates the aforementioned problems and disadvantages. To this end, the present invention also provides a system arrangement comprising a plurality of systems according to the invention, wherein a corresponding lighting device of at least one of the plurality of systems comprises a corresponding simulator device of another of the plurality of systems. Advantages and / or embodiments applicable to systems according to the invention may also be applied to the system arrangement according to the invention with necessary modifications.

[0060] In one embodiment, multiple systems can be spatially arranged in a main space according to a grid pattern. Therefore, lighting fixtures can be organized in a grid pattern. The grid pattern can be defined in an N×M matrix, where N and M are integers. For example, the grid pattern can be one of a 2×2 matrix, a 4×4 matrix, a 1×2 matrix, or a 1×4 matrix. Similar to combinations of integers N and M, other examples can be envisioned.

[0061] In one embodiment, the system arrangement includes a master controller, which comprises each corresponding controller in a plurality of systems. Such a centralized system may be advantageous.

[0062] Each of the multiple systems may include a controller. However, the controller may be a local controller (or local microcircuit) that receives commands from a central controller. The central controller and the local controllers can thus be considered as a master controller. The local controller may be part of the central controller, or may be part of a local controller (circuit) within the central controller.

[0063] In various aspects, the present invention provides a system arrangement comprising multiple systems, each of which includes: an illumination device comprising a sensor and a light source, wherein the sensor is configured to detect the presence in a space and / or detect an emulator signal, wherein the light source is configured to provide ultraviolet light in operation and to interrupt the provision of the ultraviolet light in operation when the sensor detects the presence in the space; an emulator device configured to transmit the emulator signal to the sensor; wherein the corresponding illumination device of at least one of the multiple systems includes a corresponding emulator device of another system in the multiple systems; wherein the system arrangement includes a controller configured to: control at least one corresponding emulator device of the system in the multiple systems to send the corresponding emulator signal at a first moment; and if the sensor detects the corresponding emulator signal at the first moment, determine a verification state of the corresponding sensor of the illumination device of the system in the multiple systems, and if the sensor does not detect the emulator signal at the first moment, determine an error state of the corresponding sensor of the illumination device of the system in the multiple systems. Advantages and / or appropriate modifications to the system according to the invention can also be applied to the system arrangement according to the invention.

[0064] Another object of the present invention is to provide a lighting device that at least mitigates the aforementioned problems and disadvantages. To this end, the present invention also provides a lighting device comprising a sensor, a light source, a controller, and a simulator device; wherein the sensor is configured to detect the presence in a space and / or detect a simulator signal, wherein the light source is configured to provide ultraviolet light during operation, and if the sensor detects the presence in the space, interrupts the provision of the ultraviolet light during operation; wherein the simulator device is configured to transmit the simulator signal to the sensor; wherein the controller is configured to: control the simulator device to send the simulator signal at a first moment; if the sensor detects the simulator signal at the first moment, determine a verification state of the sensor; if the sensor does not detect the simulator signal at the first moment, determine an error state of the sensor; and output an output signal when the error state is determined. Such a lighting device can autonomously verify the correct operation of the sensor. This is a significant advantage and ensures a lighting device with integrated safety features. In one embodiment, the output signal can be arranged to control the lighting device to disable the light source from providing the ultraviolet light during operation. The advantages and / or necessary modifications applied to the system according to the present invention can also be applied to the lighting device according to the present invention.

[0065] Another object of the present invention is to provide a method that at least mitigates the aforementioned problems and disadvantages. To this end, the present invention also provides a method for determining the state of a sensor of a lighting device; wherein the sensor is configured to detect the presence in a space and / or detect an emulator signal, wherein the lighting device includes a light source configured to provide ultraviolet light during operation and to interrupt the provision of the ultraviolet light during operation upon the sensor detecting the presence in the space; wherein the method includes: controlling the emulator device to send an emulator signal at a first moment; determining a verification state of the sensor if the sensor detects the emulator signal at the first moment; and determining an error state of the sensor if the sensor does not detect the emulator signal at the first moment. The method may further include (a controller) outputting an output signal upon determining the error state. Advantages and / or implementations of the system according to the invention, for example with necessary modifications, can also be applied to the method according to the invention.

[0066] In one embodiment, the output signal can be configured to control a lighting device to disable the light source from providing the ultraviolet light during operation. Therefore, the method may include: a controller controlling a lighting device to disable the light source from providing the ultraviolet light during operation. The output signal may indicate an error state. In one embodiment, the method may include: a controller outputting the output signal to another device to notify the other device of the error state. The space may include a surface. In an embodiment, the method may include a simulator device projecting a simulator signal onto the surface at a first moment.

[0067] The present invention also relates to a computer program product. Therefore, the present invention provides a computer program product for a computing device, the computer program product comprising computer program code that, when the computer program product is run on a processing unit of the computing device, executes the method according to the present invention.

[0068] Therefore, aspects of the present invention can be implemented in a computer program product, which may be a collection of computer program instructions executable by a computer and stored on a computer-readable storage device. The instructions of the present invention can take the form of any interpretable or executable code mechanism, including but not limited to scripts, interpretable programs, dynamic link libraries (DLLs), or Java classes. The instructions can be provided as a complete executable program, a partial executable program, as a modification (e.g., an update) or an extension (e.g., a plugin) of an existing program. Furthermore, portions of the processing of the present invention can be distributed across multiple computers or processors. Attached Figure Description

[0069] The invention will now be further illustrated by way of illustrative, non-limiting drawings:

[0070] Figure 1 An embodiment of the system according to the present invention is illustrated schematically;

[0071] Figure 2 An embodiment of the lighting device according to the present invention is illustrated schematically;

[0072] Figure 3 An embodiment of the method according to the present invention is illustrated schematically;

[0073] Figure 4 An embodiment of the system arrangement according to the present invention is illustrated schematically. Detailed Implementation

[0074] Figure 1An embodiment of the system 100 according to the invention is illustrated schematically by way of non-limiting example. System 100 includes a lighting device 1, a simulator device 2, and a controller 3. The lighting device 1 includes a sensor 4 and a light source 5. The two components can be connected, communicate, and interact during operation. Here, the sensor 4 is a PIR sensor, but it can also be any other type of presence sensor and / or occupancy sensor, such as microwave sensors, light sensors, thermopile sensors, microphones, etc., mentioned in this application. Here, as an exemplary option, the light source 5 is arranged cyclically around the sensor 4, and the lighting device 1 is installed in a main space 10. Here, the main space is an office, but it can also be a space in a hospital, retail environment, warehouse, drive-in park, vehicle, home, or public space. The light source 5 of the lighting device 1 illuminates at least a portion of the main space 10.

[0075] The main space 10 may require ultraviolet disinfection to sterilize surfaces and / or fluids (e.g., air) within the main space 10. Therefore, the light source 5 of the lighting device 1 provides ultraviolet light 7 during operation. "During operation" can mean during the disinfection process. The disinfection process can be, for example, pre-planned or automatically scheduled. For convenience, Figure 1 The light source 5 is depicted providing ultraviolet light 7, as if the light source 5 were in operation.

[0076] Since ultraviolet light 7 may be harmful to people and / or animals present in the main space 10, safety measures should be taken. Therefore, the PIR sensor 4 of the lighting device 1 is configured to detect its presence in space 9, which is part of the main space 10. Thus, the main space 10 includes space 9, which can be considered as the detection area of ​​sensor 4.

[0077] Therefore, when sensor 4 detects the presence of the light source 5 in the space 9, the illumination device 1 (more specifically, the light source 5 of the illumination device 1) will stop providing the ultraviolet light 7 during operation. Thus, PIR sensor 4 is an important feature for safety. Therefore, PIR sensor 4 should be checked, for example, periodically to ensure it is still functioning correctly.

[0078] Therefore, system 100 provides an emulator device 2 and a controller 3. The emulator device 2 is arranged in space 9. The emulator device 2 is an infrared light source. The emulator device 2 is configured to transmit an emulator signal 6 to a PIR sensor 4. Here, the emulator signal 6 is an infrared light signal 6. The emulator signal 6 can thus be detected by the PIR sensor 4. Alternatively, the emulator device can be arranged in the main space and project the emulator signal onto the surface of the space.

[0079] The simulator device can be, for example, battery powered. Here, simulator device 2 is mounted on wall 11 in space 9. Therefore, wall 11 is the depicting surface of space 9, and similarly depicts the main space 10. The wall can alternatively be any other depicting surface such as those mentioned in this application. Here, the distance between simulator device 2 and sensor 4 is five meters, but alternatively, the simulator device can be at least two meters, at least four meters, or at least eight meters away from the sensor. This distance can depend on the UV light source, the illumination characteristics of the UV illumination, the sensor type, etc. Therefore, the distance between simulator device and sensor covers a significant portion of space 9, as the presence of people and / or animals can also be detected within a five-meter range from sensor 4. In alternative examples, simulator device can also be comprised of other devices (e.g., electronic devices (e.g., switches), portable user devices, lighting devices).

[0080] Still referencing Figure 1 As described above, the system also includes a controller 3. The controller 3 is arranged separately from the lighting device 1 and the simulator device 2. Alternatively, the lighting device and / or simulator device, or another electrical device, may include the controller. Here, the controller 3 communicates with the lighting device 1 and the simulator device 2 via a wired connection, and said communication may alternatively be wireless communication, such as Bluetooth, ZigBee, Wi-Fi, RF, IR, Lo-Ra, UWB, 5G, Li-Fi, VLCC, etc. Here, the controller 3 is arranged in the main space 10, but alternatively, the controller may be arranged outside said space in another space.

[0081] The controller 3 controls the emulator device 2 to send the emulator signal 6 (i.e., the infrared light signal) at a first moment. Therefore, the emulator signal 6 is detectable for a correctly functioning PIR sensor 4. The controller 3 is also configured to determine the verification state of the sensor 4 (i.e., the state that the sensor has verified correct operation) if the sensor 4 detects the emulator signal 6 at the first moment. Similarly, if the sensor 4 does not detect the emulator signal 6 at the first moment, the controller 3 is also configured to determine the error state of the sensor 4 (i.e., the state that the sensor has confirmed a malfunction). Therefore, the first moment can be at least one first moment, meaning that the verification of the sensor 4 can be performed more frequently.

[0082] Upon determining the verification status, controller 3 does not provide any further action. However, in an alternative example, the controller may output a verification signal upon determining the verification signal. The verification signal may indicate the verification status. The verification signal may be configured to: control other electrical devices (e.g., safety indicator lights), and / or store the entry indicating the verification in memory, a server, or a management system.

[0083] Upon determining an error state, controller 3 outputs output signal 8. Here, output signal 8 indicates the error state, and controller 3 wirelessly transmits output signal 8 to another device (not depicted). This other device is a building management device. Since the building management device receives the output signal indicating the error state, it is notified of the error state. The error state can thus be stored or recorded in the memory of the building management device. This achieves security. The building management device can, for example, issue a repair request for lighting device 1 and the corresponding fault sensor 4, or notify the building manager of the repair request. As mentioned earlier in this application, alternative instances that may include other types of devices are similarly conceivable.

[0084] In one embodiment (which is not explicitly described, but is related to...), Figure 1 (As described in the embodiments), additionally or alternatively, the output signal may be arranged to control the lighting device to disable the light source from providing the ultraviolet light during operation. Therefore, if it is determined that the sensor may not function accordingly (detect presence), the lighting device can be disabled, or the light source can be disabled from providing the ultraviolet light during operation. This advantageously prevents the risk of operating the light source to provide ultraviolet light without correspondingly detecting its presence in the space.

[0085] In summary, at the first moment, the simulator signal 6 is therefore specifically transmitted to the sensor 4. Thus, the simulator device 2 can simulate the presence in space 9. This transmission can advantageously be used to determine the state of the sensor 4 of the lighting device 1. That is, the controller 3 is configured to determine the verification state of the sensor 4 if the sensor 4 detects the simulator signal 6 at this first moment. Therefore, the sensor 4 is tested accordingly. It is also advantageous to notify the building management device, and additionally or alternatively, the lighting device 1 can be disabled and / or the light source 5 can be disabled to provide the ultraviolet light 7. Therefore, the system 100 according to the invention is capable of verifying the correct operation or function of the sensor 4 (by determining the verification state) and acting in the event of a malfunction.

[0086] Still referencing Figure 1The ultraviolet light from the light source may include, for example, UV-A (315-400 nm), UV-B (280-315 nm), UV-C (100-280 nm), far UV, and extreme UV. More specifically, in various aspects, the spectral distribution may include at least one of the following: ultra-deep UV in the 100-190 nm range, deep UV light in the 190-220 nm range, UV-C light in the 220-280 nm range, UV-B light in the 280-315 nm range, UV-A light in the 315-400 nm range, and UV light at 254 nm. Such an ultraviolet spectrum may have proven effective in killing infectious substances (e.g., viruses, bacteria, fungi, yeasts, and / or germ cells). For example, UV-C illumination has a strong bactericidal effect, which disrupts the structure of DNA in living cells.

[0087] The light source can be described as an illumination unit or illumination module. The illumination unit or illumination module may include a light-emitting diode (LED), a chip-on-board (COB) light source (the term "COB" specifically refers to an LED chip in the form of a semiconductor chip, which is neither packaged nor connected, but directly mounted on a substrate such as a PCB), and / or a laser. The term "laser" specifically refers to a device that emits light based on stimulated emission of electromagnetic radiation through an optical amplification process. In particular, in embodiments, the term "laser" may refer to a solid-state laser. In certain embodiments, the term "laser" or "laser source" or similar terms refer to a laser diode (or diode laser).

[0088] The light source can be a collimated light source, a point light source, or a narrow, elongated light source. The disinfection device can include an optical arrangement, wherein the light source can include the optical arrangement, and the optical setup of the optical arrangement can be configured to perform a disinfection action. The optical setup can, for example, include the intensity and / or spatial distribution of the light beam generated by the light source.

[0089] Figure 2 An embodiment of the lighting device 21 according to the invention is illustrated schematically by way of non-limiting example. The lighting device 21 may be part of a system or system arrangement according to the invention. The lighting device 21 may also be considered as a system according to the invention.

[0090] Lighting fixture 21 is installed within the main space 30. Here, the main space 30 is a ward in a hospital, but it could also be any other space requiring disinfection, such as an office, stadium, shop, or animal farm. Here, lighting fixture 21 is a luminaire. The luminaire is suspended from the ceiling 32 of the main space 30. Therefore, the luminaire 21 is suspended from the ceiling 32 due to gravity. The main space 30 and space 29 are further depicted by wall 31.

[0091] The lighting device 21 (i.e., the suspended illuminator) includes a simulator device 22, a controller 23, a sensor 24, a light source 25, and optionally another light source 33. More specifically, the lighting device 21 includes a illuminator housing 34 that includes (or houses, or contains) the simulator device 22, the controller 21, the sensor 24, the light source 25, and optionally the additional light source 33. All these components can be connected to and communicate with each other via the controller 23. Optionally, the additional light source 33 can provide functional or ambient light to the main space 30 during operation.

[0092] Light source 25 provides ultraviolet light 27 during operation, thereby disinfecting surfaces and / or fluids in the main space 30. "During operation" can mean during the disinfection process. Light source 25 may optionally include optics to control the illumination characteristics of the light source. Here, light source 25 provides ultraviolet light 27 in the direction opposite to gravity (i.e., towards ceiling 32). Therefore, light source 25 illuminates at least a portion of the main space 30, namely a portion of the ceiling 32 of the main space, and the upper air in the main space 30. Illumination device 21 can therefore be considered as an illuminator for UV disinfection of the upper air.

[0093] Since ultraviolet light 27 may be harmful to people and / or animals present in the main space 30 (i.e., the hospital ward), safety measures should be taken. Therefore, sensor 24 of the lighting device 21 is configured to detect its presence in the space 29 included by the main space 30. Here, sensor 24 is a PIR sensor, but it can also be any other type of presence and / or occupancy sensor, such as those mentioned in this application, for example, a microwave sensor, a light sensor, a thermopile, a microphone, etc.

[0094] Here, sensor 24 has a narrow detection area and monitors the space 29 between the suspended illuminator 21 and the wall 31. Sensor 24 can therefore detect any protrusion through said space 29, such as the presence of any body part, like a head or hand protruding into said space 29. This could pose a safety risk. Therefore, PIR sensor 24 is an important safety feature. Thus, PIR sensor 24 should, for example, be periodically checked to ensure it is still functioning correctly. Alternatively, other configurations of the sensor are conceivable, such as a PIR sensor monitoring the presence of at least a portion of the space below the lighting fixture at a wide angle.

[0095] refer to Figure 2 When the PIR sensor 24 detects the presence of the light source 25 in the space 29, the controller 23 of the lighting device 21 will interrupt the supply of ultraviolet light 7 by the light source 25 during operation. The lighting device 21 also includes an emulator device 22. The emulator device 22 is arranged in the lighting device and transmits emulator signals 26 to the PIR sensor 24.

[0096] That is, the simulator device 22 is an infrared laser, and the simulator signal 26 is an infrared laser signal 26. The infrared laser 22 projects the infrared laser signal 26 onto a projection position 38 on the wall 31. This projection position 38 is in the space 29 and can therefore be detected by the PIR sensor 24, so the simulator signal 26 (i.e., the infrared laser signal) is at least partially reflected at the projection position 38 on the wall 31 and propagates to the PIR sensor 24. Therefore, the distance the simulator signal propagates, i.e., the distance the simulator signal 26 propagates through the main space 31 between the simulator device 22 and the sensor 24, can be at least two meters.

[0097] Therefore, the emulator signal 26 is detectable for a correctly functioning PIR sensor 24. That is, the controller 23 controls the emulator device 22 to send the emulator signal 26 at a first moment. The controller 23 is also configured to determine the verification state of the sensor 24 (i.e., the state that the sensor is functioning correctly) if the sensor 24 detects the emulator signal 26 at the first moment. Similarly, if the sensor 24 does not detect the emulator signal 26 at the first moment, the controller 23 is also configured to determine the malfunction state of the sensor 24 (i.e., the state that the sensor is faulty). Therefore, the first moment can be at least one first moment, meaning that the verification of the sensor 24 can be performed more frequently. Thus, the lighting device 21 can autonomously verify the correct operation of the sensor 24. This is a significant advantage and ensures that the lighting device 21 has integrated safety features.

[0098] In this embodiment, upon determining the verification status, the controller 23 does not provide any further action. Alternatively, the controller may store or record the verification status. Or, the controller may notify another device that the lighting device is operating via a working sensor.

[0099] Upon determining an error state, the controller 23 outputs an output signal 28. Here, the output signal 28 is a control signal, as it is configured to control the lighting device 21 to disable the light source 25 from providing the ultraviolet light 27 during operation. More specifically, upon determining the error state, the controller disables the light source 25 from providing the ultraviolet light 27 during operation.

[0100] Other examples of the controller's actions upon determining an error state can be similarly conceived. In one example, upon determining the error state, the controller may also control an additional light source 33 to illuminate the main space with illumination characteristics. Illumination characteristics may be, for example, at least one of modulation, light pattern, intensity, color, etc., such as flashing red light. In another example, upon determining the error state, the controller may output an output signal indicating the error state, and the controller may, for example, wirelessly transmit the output signal to another device. This other device may be, for example, a user device, a server, a smartphone, a wearable device, a illuminator repairing a database, etc.

[0101] In embodiments not shown, a method based on... Figure 1 The system and / or according to Figure 2 The lighting device includes a light source arranged to purify the air using ultraviolet light. Therefore, the lighting device includes a purifier for purifying the air during operation, wherein the purifier includes the light source. Thus, the light source may not be directly visible from the main space, but still poses a risk to any animals and / or people present. Therefore, the present invention can provide a safety check for sensors and lighting devices using simulator devices.

[0102] Figure 4 An embodiment of the system arrangement 3000 according to the invention is illustrated schematically by way of non-limiting example. The system arrangement 3000 includes a plurality of system or lighting devices according to the invention and a main controller 33331. The system arrangement 3000 is installed in a main space 340. The main space 340 includes a surface 350, which is a ceiling 350. Here, the controller is arranged outside the main space 340, but optionally it may be arranged inside the main space.

[0103] For convenience, such as Figure 4 As shown, the system arrangement 3000 includes three systems 3100, 3200, and 3300 according to the invention. These systems 3100, 3200, and 3300 are now referred to as lighting systems 3100, 3200, and 3300 because they include corresponding lighting devices 310, 320, and 330. These systems can be arranged in a grid pattern. This grid pattern is depicted in two dimensions as a 3x1 matrix configuration in this figure. Only the third lighting system 3300 is partially depicted. The second lighting system 3200 is adjacent to the first lighting system 3100 and the third lighting system 3300. The lighting systems may include additional lighting systems similar to these three lighting systems 3100, 3200, and 3300. Therefore, the lighting system arrangement may include any other number of lighting systems, such as at least four, at least five, at least eight, etc.

[0104] The first lighting system 3100 includes a first lighting device 310 and a second lighting device 320. The first lighting device 310 and the second lighting device 320 are similarly suspended from the ceiling 350. The first lighting system 3100 also includes a simulator device 312, a controller 313, a sensor 314, and a light source 315. Thus, the first lighting device 310 includes the sensor 314, the controller 313, and the light source 315. These components can be connected, communicate, and interact during operation, for example, via the controller 323. Thus, the second lighting device 320 includes the simulator device 312 of the first lighting device 310. Thus, the first lighting device 320 also includes a simulator device 302 of another adjacent lighting device (not shown). However, this simulator device of the other adjacent lighting device is optional for the first lighting device.

[0105] Alternative description: The first lighting system may include a first lighting device and a simulator device. Thus, the first lighting device may include a controller, a sensor, and a light source. The simulator device of the first lighting system may be located remotely from the first lighting device. For example, the simulator device may be included in another device. Therefore, the other device may be a second lighting device of a second lighting system.

[0106] Still referencing Figure 4 The system arrangement 3000 also includes a second lighting system 3200. The second lighting system 3200 includes a second lighting device 320 and a third lighting device 330. The second lighting system 3200 also includes a simulator device 322, a controller 323, a sensor 324, and a light source 325. Thus, the second lighting device 320 includes the sensor 324, the controller 323, and the light source 325. These components can be connected, communicate, and interact during operation, for example, via the controller 323. Thus, the third lighting device 330 includes the simulator device 322 of the second lighting device 320. As described above, in the depicted embodiment, the second lighting device 320 also includes a simulator device 312 of the first lighting device 310 of the first lighting system 3100.

[0107] Alternative description: The second lighting system may include a second lighting device and a simulator device. Thus, the second lighting device may include a controller, a sensor, and a light source. The simulator device of the second lighting system may be located remotely from the second lighting device. For example, the simulator device may be included in another device. Therefore, the other device may be a third lighting device of a third lighting system.

[0108] System arrangement 3000 also includes a third lighting system 3300. The third lighting system 3300 includes a third lighting device 330, which includes a simulator device 322 of the second lighting system 3200. The second lighting device 320 and the third lighting device 330 are similarly suspended from the ceiling 350. With necessary modifications, the third lighting device 330 may also include the same features as the first and / or second lighting devices. Therefore, the first lighting system 3100, the second lighting system 3200, and the third lighting system 3300 can be identical, indicating multiple repeating lighting systems in system arrangement 3000.

[0109] Still referencing Figure 4 The light source 315 of the first lighting device 310 and the light source 325 of the second lighting device 320 provide ultraviolet light 317, 327 during operation. "During operation" can mean during a disinfection process. The controller 313 of the first lighting device 310 can thereby control or transmit control signals to the light source 315 of the first lighting device 310. The controller 323 of the second lighting device 320 can thereby control or transmit control signals to the light source 325 of the second lighting device 320. The light source 315 of the first lighting device 310 and the light source 325 of the second lighting device 325 can be controlled independently and / or separately, but alternatively, they can be controlled in coordination with each other.

[0110] Therefore, the sensor 314 of the first lighting device 310 is configured to detect the presence in a first space (not explicitly depicted). The sensor 314 may be a presence sensor as mentioned in this application. The first space can be considered as the detection area of ​​the sensor 314 of the first lighting device 310. The main space 340 includes this space. Furthermore, when the sensor 314 of the first lighting device 310 detects the presence in the first space, the light source 315 of the first lighting device 310 is configured to interrupt the provision of the ultraviolet light 317 during operation.

[0111] Therefore, the sensor 324 of the second lighting device 320 is configured to detect the presence in a second space (not explicitly depicted). The sensor 324 may be a presence sensor as mentioned in this application. The second space can be considered as the detection area of ​​the sensor 324 of the second lighting device 320. The main space 340 includes this space. Furthermore, when the sensor 324 of the second lighting device 320 detects the presence in the second space, the light source 325 of the second lighting device 320 is configured to interrupt the provision of the ultraviolet light 327 during operation.

[0112] Since ultraviolet light 317, 327 may be dangerous to humans and / or animals, and since safety is ensured by sensor 314 of the first lighting device 310 and sensor 324 of the second lighting device 320 respectively, these sensors 314, 324 should, for example, be checked periodically to ensure that they are still working correctly.

[0113] This is accomplished by the simulator device described above. Specifically, the simulator device 312 of the first lighting system 3100, included in the second lighting device 320, is arranged to transmit the first simulator signal 316 to the sensor 314 of the first lighting system 3100. The simulator device 312 is included in the first lighting device 310. Similarly, the simulator device 322 of the second lighting system 3200, included in the third lighting device 330, is arranged to transmit the second simulator signal 326 to the sensor 324 of the second lighting system 3200, included in the second lighting device 320.

[0114] Furthermore, the main controller 3333 of the system arrangement 3000 includes a controller 313 for the first lighting device 310, a controller 314 for the second lighting device, and a controller (not shown) for the third lighting device 330. The main controller 3333 is capable of controlling... Figure 4 At least one corresponding simulator device for each of the multiple lighting systems depicted herein, the control of which can be performed via a corresponding controller in the corresponding lighting device. The main controller 3333 thereby communicates wirelessly with the corresponding controller in the corresponding lighting device, but alternatively may also communicate via a wired connection.

[0115] More specifically, the main controller 3333 controls the emulator device 312 of the first lighting system 3100 to transmit the first emulator signal 316 to the sensor 314 of the first lighting device 310 at a first moment. The distance between the emulator device 312 and the sensor 314 of the first lighting system 3100 can be at least two meters. Furthermore, if the sensor 314 detects the first emulator signal 316 at the first moment, the main controller 3333 determines a first verification state of the sensor 314 of the first lighting device 310. If the sensor 314 does not detect the first emulator signal 316 at the first moment, the main controller 3333 determines a first error state of the sensor 314 of the first lighting device 310.

[0116] Similarly, the main controller 3333 controls the simulator device 322 of the second lighting system 3200 to transmit the second simulator signal 326 to the sensor 324 of the second lighting device 320 at a second time. The distance between the simulator device 322 and the sensor 324 of the second lighting system 3200 can be at least two meters. Furthermore, if the sensor 324 detects the second simulator signal 326 at the second time, the main controller 3333 determines a second verification state of the sensor 324 of the second lighting device 320. If the sensor 324 does not detect the second simulator signal 326 at the second time, the main controller 3333 determines a second error state of the sensor 324 of the second lighting device 320.

[0117] The first lighting system 3100, the second lighting system 3200, and the third lighting system 3300 are identical. Therefore, with necessary modifications, the above description can also be applied to the third lighting system, and its sensor and simulator devices.

[0118] Alternatively, the transmission of simulator signals 316 and 326 can be performed indirectly. That is, the sensor of the first lighting device can detect the presence in the space containing the surface, wherein the simulator device can project a corresponding simulator signal onto a projection position on the surface (monitored by the sensor of the first lighting device) to transmit the corresponding simulator signal to the sensor of the first lighting device. These can be applied to the sensor of the second lighting device with necessary modifications.

[0119] Still referencing Figure 4 System arrangement 3000 includes a main controller 3333 to provide a centralized system arrangement 3000 that centrally controls multiple lighting systems of the system arrangement 3000. Alternatively, the controller for each corresponding lighting system of the system arrangement may perform the verification actions of the main controller at least partially locally and / or in a distributed manner. Therefore, the system arrangement may include, for example, systems such as... Figure 1 The embodiments shown are in which the simulator device is not mounted on the wall, but is contained within an adjacent lighting device.

[0120] Furthermore, when the main controller 3333 determines the first verification state, the main controller 3333 may not provide any further action; and / or when the main controller 3333 determines the second verification state, the main controller 3333 may not provide any further action. Alternatively, in both cases, the controller may store or record the verification state. Alternatively, the main controller may notify another device that the first lighting device is operating via a working sensor.

[0121] However, upon determining the first error state and / or the second error state, the main controller 3333 outputs an output signal. The output signal indicates the first error state and / or the second error state. The main controller 3333 transmits this output signal to another device. This other device could be, for example, a smartphone belonging to a lighting system manager, mechanic, or property owner. The output signal can also be transmitted to a server, computer, or building management device; for example, it can be stored or recorded in its memory.

[0122] Here, upon determining the first error state, the main controller 3333 also transmits a control signal to the first lighting device 310, for example, to the controller 313 of the first lighting device 310, so as to temporarily disable the light source 315 of the first lighting device 310 from providing ultraviolet light 317 during operation. The light source 315 may, for example, still provide other, less harmful spectra.

[0123] Here, upon determining the second error state, the main controller 3333 also transmits a control signal to the second lighting device 320, for example, to the controller 323 of the second lighting device 320, to temporarily disable the light source 325 of the first lighting device 320 from providing ultraviolet light 327 during operation. The light source 325 may, for example, still provide other, less harmful spectra.

[0124] In summary, the main controller 3334 coordinates the purposeful transmission of signals from the first and / or second simulators at corresponding first and second moments. There can be multiple first moments. There can be multiple second moments.

[0125] Therefore, the simulator can mimic the presence in the space monitored by sensors. This allows the main controller to determine the verification status of the sensors. Consequently, the sensors are tested accordingly. Due to the spatial organization and positioning of the lighting fixtures within the system layout, each lighting fixture can advantageously facilitate the verification of sensors on adjacent lighting fixtures. This is further facilitated by the understanding that lighting fixtures in the main space typically have an installation height. When a dangerous malfunction is identified, the main controller can also advantageously take appropriate action.

[0126] Figure 3An embodiment of the method 900 according to the invention is illustrated schematically by way of non-limiting example. Method 900 can be performed by an illumination device and / or illumination system according to the invention. Thus, method 900 describes determining the state of a sensor of an illumination device, wherein the sensor is configured to detect the presence in a space and / or detect an emulator signal, wherein the illumination device includes a light source configured to provide ultraviolet light in operation, and if the sensor detects the presence in the space, interrupts the provision of the ultraviolet light in operation. Method 900 includes an initial step 901: controlling the emulator device to send an emulator signal at a first moment. The method includes a step 902: if the sensor detects the emulator signal at the first moment, determining a verification state of the sensor; and a step 903: if the sensor does not detect the emulator signal at the first moment, determining an error state of the sensor. The method may further include a step 904: upon determining the error state, outputting an output signal. The output signal may be arranged to control the illumination device to disable the light source from providing the ultraviolet light in operation. Thus, step 904 may be: the controller disables the light source from providing the ultraviolet light in operation. The output signal may, in this example, be a notification signal or an entry that will be stored in another device.

Claims

1. A system (100) for determining the state of a sensor of a lighting device, comprising: The lighting device (1, 21) includes a sensor (4) and a light source (5), wherein the sensor (4) is configured to detect the presence in the space (10) and / or detect the simulator signal (6), wherein the light source (5) is configured to provide ultraviolet light (7) in operation and to interrupt the provision of the ultraviolet light (7) in operation when the sensor (4) detects the presence in the space (10). The powered simulator device (2) is configured to actively transmit the simulator signal (6) to the sensor (4). The controller (3) is configured to: control the simulator device (2) to send the simulator signal (6) at a first moment; and determine the verification status of the sensor (4) if the sensor (4) detects the simulator signal (6) at the first moment.

2. The system for determining the state of a sensor for a lighting device according to claim 1, wherein, The controller is configured to determine an error state of the sensor (4) if the sensor (4) does not detect the simulator signal (6) at the first moment; The controller (3) is configured to output an output signal (8) when the error state is determined.

3. The system for determining the state of a sensor of a lighting device according to claim 2, wherein the output signal is arranged to control the lighting device (1) to disable the light source (5) from providing the ultraviolet light (7) in operation.

4. The system for determining the state of a sensor of a lighting device according to claim 2, wherein the output signal indicates the error state, and wherein the controller is configured to output the output signal to another device to notify the other device of the error state.

5. A system for determining the state of a sensor for a lighting device according to any one of claims 1-4. in, The sensor is a PIR sensor, the simulator is an infrared light source, and the simulator signal is an infrared signal; or Wherein, the sensor is a microwave sensor, the emulator device is a radio frequency beacon, and the emulator signal is a radio frequency signal; or The sensor is a light sensor, and the emulator device is a light beacon, wherein the emulator signal is a light signal.

6. A system for determining the state of a sensor for a lighting device according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the light source is configured to illuminate at least a portion of the space with the ultraviolet light during operation, or to illuminate at least a portion of a main space comprising the space with the ultraviolet light.

7. A system for determining the state of a sensor for a lighting device according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the lighting device includes a purifier for purifying air during operation, wherein the purifier includes the light source, and wherein the ultraviolet light of the light source purifies the air.

8. A system for determining the state of a sensor for a lighting device according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the lighting device includes the controller.

9. A system for determining the state of a sensor for a lighting device according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the space comprises a surface, and wherein the simulator device is configured to project the simulator signal onto the surface.

10. A system for determining the state of a sensor for a lighting device according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the simulator device is arranged at a distance from the sensor, wherein the distance is at least two meters.

11. A system for determining the state of a sensor for a lighting device according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the system includes a second lighting device; wherein the second lighting device includes the simulator device.

12. A system for determining the state of a sensor of a lighting device according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the lighting device includes the simulator device.

13. A system for determining the state of a sensor for a lighting device according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the lighting device is a illuminator and includes a illuminator housing, wherein the illuminator housing includes the sensor, the light source, the controller, and the simulator device.

14. A system arrangement for determining the state of a sensor for a lighting device, comprising a plurality of systems according to any one of claims 1-11, wherein a corresponding lighting device of at least one of the plurality of systems comprises a corresponding simulator device of another of the plurality of systems.

15. A method for determining the state of a sensor in a lighting device; The sensor is configured to detect the presence in the space and / or detect simulator signals, and the illumination device includes a light source configured to provide ultraviolet light during operation. And if the sensor detects the presence in the space, the provision of the ultraviolet light during operation is interrupted; The method includes: Control the powered simulator device to actively send simulator signals at the first moment; If the sensor detects the simulator signal at the first moment, the verification status of the sensor is determined; and if the sensor does not detect the simulator signal at the first moment, the error status of the sensor is determined. When the error state is determined, an output signal is output.

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