Light-emitting control system and light-emitting control method

Abstract

The objective of this invention is to provide a light emission control system suitable for performances where light-emitting devices interact with each other. The solution of this invention is a light emission control system (100) comprising a plurality of light-emitting devices (10) and a management device (50) capable of wirelessly communicating with these light-emitting devices (10). The management device includes: a position detection unit (41) that detects position information of the light-emitting devices; and a target value calculation unit (31c) that calculates target values ​​for light emission states such as flashing period and flashing phase for each light-emitting device based on the position information of the light-emitting devices. Each light-emitting device stores a default value for its light emission state. When a predetermined state change is detected by its own sensor, the light emission state is restored to the default value, and the management device is notified. Upon receiving notification of restoration to the default value from a first light-emitting device, the management device calculates the target values ​​for the first light-emitting device and other second light-emitting devices, and sends the calculated target values ​​to each light-emitting device. Each light-emitting device controls its own light emission state in a manner that achieves this target value.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a system and method for controlling the luminous states of multiple luminous devices. More specifically, the invention is used, for example, in light performances where each luminous device is mounted on a cup, and the luminous devices within a fixed distance respond to each other, causing the flashing period and flashing phase of the luminous devices to gradually become consistent. Background Technology

[0002] Previously, cups equipped with light-emitting devices were known (Patent Document 1, Patent Document 2). For example, the cup described in Patent Document 1 is characterized in that, in order to visually indicate to the user the appropriate concentration, degree of spoilage, and appropriate temperature of the drinking water poured into the cup, the light-emitting device's light-emitting state (on / off, flashing) is controlled according to the concentration, degree of spoilage, and temperature of the drinking water. Furthermore, Patent Document 2 discloses a cup that emits a melody and light according to the temperature and amount of the contents poured into the cup, thereby allowing the user to inform them of the temperature and amount of the contents.

[0003] Furthermore, as a technique for controlling the light emission state of multiple light-emitting devices, the applicant of this application has proposed, for example, the invention described in Patent Document 3. The purpose of the invention described in Patent Document 3 is to flexibly change the lighting effect provided by multiple pen lights according to the content and circumstances of the event. The control system sends light emission data to multiple light-emitting devices, and each light-emitting device emits light in accordance with the light emission data (LED, etc.).

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 11-318672

[0007] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2006-55570

[0008] Patent Document 3: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2015-11981 Summary of the Invention

[0009] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0010] However, in the cups with light-emitting devices described in Patent Documents 1 and 2, each light-emitting device is a completely independent device, and the multiple light-emitting devices do not interact with each other. In addition, the system described in Patent Document 3 is based on the premise that the control system centrally controls multiple light-emitting devices. Even if each light-emitting device receives light-emitting data from the control system and changes its light-emitting state, it does not envision any interaction between the light-emitting devices.

[0011] On the other hand, consider the scenario of equipping cups with light-emitting devices. For example, in a situation where multiple people are dining, there might be a scene where several cups are arranged on a table, or where the cups touch each other to toast. In this case, if the light-emitting devices attached to the cups could interact with each other in a responsive manner, it could be said that the dining table would become more elegant. In particular, if the light-emitting devices did not flash or emit light randomly, but rather, for example, if the light-emitting devices placed on the same table were synchronized and their light emission gradually reached a consistent state, then those around the table could resonate with each other and feel an impression of deepened intimacy.

[0012] Therefore, the main objective of this invention is to provide a light emission control technique suitable for performances where light-emitting devices interact with each other. More specifically, the objective of this invention is to perform light performances in which the flickering periods and phases of light-emitting devices located within a fixed distance gradually become consistent.

[0013] Problem-solving methods

[0014] The first aspect of the present invention relates to a light-emitting control system. The system of the present invention includes multiple light-emitting devices and a management device capable of wirelessly communicating with these light-emitting devices. The light-emitting devices and the management device can be connected via information communication lines such as the Internet, or can communicate wirelessly via known wireless communication standards such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark) and Bluetooth (registered trademark).

[0015] The management device includes a position detection unit and a target value calculation unit. The position detection unit detects the position information of the light-emitting devices. Based on the position information of each light-emitting device, the target value calculation unit calculates a target value for the light emission state for each light-emitting device. Furthermore, "light emission state" refers to one or more of the following: flashing period, flashing phase, light emission color, and light emission intensity (brightness).

[0016] Each light-emitting device includes a storage unit, a sensor, and a control unit. The storage unit stores at least a default value for the light-emitting state. Furthermore, this default value can be determined by a management device, transmitted to each light-emitting device, and stored in the storage unit of each light-emitting device. The sensor detects predetermined state changes of the light-emitting device or the article equipped with the light-emitting device. Examples of sensors include accelerometers that detect changes in acceleration and / or tilt, height sensors that detect changes in height, temperature sensors that detect changes in temperature, and vibration sensors that detect changes in vibration. Furthermore, the sensor may also be, for example, a pressure sensor that detects changes in the pressure exerted on an article equipped with a light-emitting device (e.g., a cup) when held by a person, or a brightness sensor that detects changes in the brightness around the article. The control unit controls the light-emitting state of the light-emitting device.

[0017] Here, when the sensor detects a predetermined state change, the control unit of the light-emitting device restores the light-emitting state of the light-emitting device to a default value and notifies the management device of this situation via the wireless communication unit. Furthermore, when the management device receives a notification of restoration to the default value from a certain light-emitting device (the first light-emitting device), it calculates target values ​​for that light-emitting device (the first light-emitting device) and one or more other light-emitting devices (the second light-emitting devices). That is, the first light-emitting device here refers to the device that affects other light-emitting devices, and the second light-emitting devices are the devices affected by the first light-emitting device. The management device then transmits the calculated target values ​​to each light-emitting device (the first and second light-emitting devices). Each light-emitting device (the first and second light-emitting devices) then controls its own light-emitting state in a manner consistent with the target value received from the management device. For example, the first light-emitting device gradually changes its own light-emitting state from the default value to the target value. And the second light-emitting device gradually changes its own light-emitting state from the current light-emitting state (current value) to the target value.

[0018] By constructing it as described above, it is possible to achieve a performance in which a change in the state of a certain light-emitting device (such as picking up a cup) causes an effect that influences the interaction of other light-emitting devices.

[0019] In the system of the present invention, the target value calculation unit of the preferred management device calculates the target value of each light-emitting device based on the position information of each light-emitting device, in a manner that makes the flashing period and flashing phase of light-emitting devices within a predetermined distance at least consistent. For example, in the case where a light-emitting device is mounted on a cup, it is sufficient to make the target value consistent for the light-emitting devices of cups placed on the same table. Alternatively, two light-emitting devices located at the closest distance can be paired, and the target values ​​of the paired light-emitting devices can be made consistent. In this way, by making the target values ​​of two or more light-emitting devices consistent based on the position information of each light-emitting device, it is possible to perform a process such as gradually making the light emission states of nearby light-emitting devices consistent, and eventually making them consistent.

[0020] In the system of the present invention, the light-emitting device is preferably mounted on a cup. In this case, the light-emitting device preferably includes at least a liquid detection sensor for detecting liquid injected into the cup and an accelerometer (tilt measurement unit) for measuring the tilt of the cup. Furthermore, the light-emitting device preferably starts emitting light when the liquid detection sensor detects liquid in the cup, and stops emitting light when the tilt of the cup measured by the accelerometer exceeds a predetermined threshold. Thus, by emitting light when liquid is injected into the cup, the liquid inside the cup can be illuminated, making the liquid appear aesthetically pleasing. On the other hand, if the trigger for stopping the light emission is set when the liquid detection sensor does not detect liquid, there is a problem: even if almost no liquid has entered the cup, it is easy to make an error where the light emission will not stop even if a small amount of water droplets remain near the detection area of ​​the liquid detection sensor on the inner surface of the cup. Therefore, in the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the light emission is stopped when the tilt of the cup measured by the accelerometer exceeds a predetermined threshold. For example, by pre-setting the angle required to drink the liquid inside the cup as the threshold, the light emission can be stopped when the liquid in the cup is finished. Thus, by setting the trigger for stopping the light emission to the tilt of the cup, even if some water droplets remain inside the cup, the light emission of the device can be reliably stopped. Furthermore, since stopping the light emission by tilting the cup is intended for drinking liquid while holding the cup in hand, it is preferable not to use a straw or the like.

[0021] In the system of the present invention, the sensor for detecting a predetermined state change of the light-emitting device is preferably an accelerometer, which detects the acceleration change of the light-emitting device as the state change. Thus, for example, when a cup is picked up, or when multiple cups are brought together for a toast, the light-emitting state of each light-emitting device can be restored to its default value.

[0022] A second aspect of the invention is a cup equipped with a light-emitting device. The light-emitting device includes a liquid detection sensor for detecting liquid injected into the cup and an accelerometer (tilt measurement unit) for measuring the tilt of the cup. It begins to emit light when the liquid detection sensor detects liquid in the cup and stops emitting light when the tilt of the cup, as measured by the accelerometer, exceeds a predetermined threshold. As described above, by setting the trigger for stopping the light emission to the tilt of the cup, even if some water droplets remain inside the cup, the light emission of the device can be reliably stopped.

[0023] A third aspect of the present invention relates to a light emission control method. The light emission control method is executed by a plurality of light emission devices and a management device capable of wirelessly communicating with these light emission devices. The management device includes: a position detection unit that detects position information of the light emission devices; and a target value calculation unit that calculates a target value for a light emission state (one or more of a flickering period, flickering phase, light emission color, and light emission intensity) for each light emission device based on the position information of the light emission devices. Each light emission device includes: a storage unit that stores default values ​​for its light emission state; a sensor that detects a predetermined state change of the light emission device or an article equipped with the light emission device; and a control unit that controls the light emission state of the light emission device. In this light emission control method, firstly, when a predetermined state change is detected by the sensor, the light emission device restores its light emission state to the default value and notifies the management device of the situation. Next, when the management device receives notification from a first light emission device that the state has been restored to the default value, it calculates the target value for the first light emission device and a second light emission device other than the first light emission device, and transmits the calculated target value to the first and second light emission devices. Then, the first and second light emission devices control their own light emission states in a manner that corresponds to the target value.

[0024] Invention Effects

[0025] According to the present invention, a light-emitting control system and a light-emitting control method suitable for the interaction of light-emitting devices can be provided. Attached Figure Description

[0026] [ Figure 1 ] Figure 1 A schematic diagram illustrating the general outline of the light-emitting control system of the present invention;

[0027] [ Figure 2 ] Figure 2 (a) is a cross-sectional view of a cup equipped with a light-emitting device. Figure 2 (b) is a block diagram representing the functional structure of the light-emitting device;

[0028] [ Figure 3 ] Figure 3 A block diagram illustrating the functional structure of a management device, including a location management unit and a central management unit;

[0029] [ Figure 4 ] Figure 4 An example illustrating the light-emitting process of a light-emitting device;

[0030] [ Figure 5 ] Figure 5 An example of the control flow for synchronizing the light emission of each light-emitting device;

[0031] [ Figure 6 ] Figure 6This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the light emission modes of each light emission device in a synchronized light emission process. Detailed Implementation

[0032] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described using the accompanying drawings. The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described below, but also includes embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art through appropriate modifications within the obvious scope.

[0033] Figure 1 The diagram schematically illustrates the overall structure of a light-emitting control system 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the light-emitting control system 100 of this embodiment includes a plurality of light-emitting devices 10, a plurality of cups 20 on which these light-emitting devices 10 are respectively mounted, a central management device 30, and a position management device 40. Furthermore, in this specification, the device including the central management device 30 and the position management device 40 is referred to as a management device 50. The light-emitting devices 10 mounted on the cups 20 and the management device 50 are configured to communicate wirelessly with each other. For example, each light-emitting device 10 and the management device 50 can be connected via a wireless LAN according to a known standard such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark).

[0034] In the light-emitting control system 100 of the present invention, for example, it is envisioned that a light-emitting performance is performed by cups in a food and beverage establishment such as a coffee shop or restaurant. As an example, a food and beverage establishment has multiple tables, and multiple cups 20 are arranged on each table, with each cup 20 equipped with a light-emitting device 10. A management device 50 periodically obtains the position information of each cup 20, thereby always keeping track of the distance between the cups 20. Furthermore, the management device 50, for example, synchronizes the light-emitting states of the cups 20 on each table, thus ensuring a uniform light-emitting performance for the cups 20 on each table. Specifically, when a cup 20 on a certain table is picked up, that cup 20 begins to flash, and other cups 20 arranged on the same table also begin to flash in response to the picked-up cup 20, ultimately making the flashing period and phase of all the cups 20 on the same table consistent. Such a light-emitting performance can be realized using the light-emitting control system 100 according to the present invention.

[0035] Figure 2 A cross-sectional view (a) of the cup 20 and a block diagram (b) of the light-emitting device 10 are shown. The cup 20 is formed of known materials such as glass and plastic, and is configured to be transparent or translucent so that light emitted from the light-emitting device 10 can pass through. Figure 2As shown in (a), the cup 20, like a regular cup, has a side wall 21 and a bottom surface 22. An opening for injecting liquid is formed in the upper part of the side wall 21, and a partition wall 23 is provided near the waist of the side wall 21. Thus, the liquid space 24 for injecting liquids such as drinking water is divided by the side wall 21 and the partition wall 23, and the device space 25 for accommodating the light-emitting device 10 is divided by the side wall 21, the partition wall 23, and the bottom surface 22. That is, the device space 25 is located below the liquid space 24, and these spaces 24 and 25 are separated by the partition wall 23. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the partition wall 23 is curved into a dome shape (hemispherical shape) with its central portion convex toward the liquid space 24. Therefore, light emitted from the light-emitting device 10 can be efficiently diffused when it penetrates the partition wall 23, thus illuminating the liquid in the liquid space 24 and the surrounding side wall 21 as a whole. Moreover, the shape of the cup 20 is not limited to the shape shown in the figure and various other structures can be adopted. For example, a handle can also be fitted onto the outer surface of the side wall 21 of the cup 20.

[0036] The light-emitting device 10 is a device for illuminating the cup 20 and the liquid poured into it from inside the cup 20. For example... Figure 2 As shown in (b), the light-emitting device 10 includes a control unit 11, a light-emitting unit 12, an IC tag 13, a storage unit 14, a communication unit 15, a sound-emitting unit 16, a liquid detection sensor 17, and an acceleration sensor 18. Furthermore, although not shown in the figure, the light-emitting device 10 includes a battery so that the light-emitting unit 12 can be powered independently.

[0037] The control unit 11 is an element used to control other elements 12-19. The control unit 11 is, for example, composed of a processor and a memory. Examples of processors include known CPUs and other control circuits, which perform predetermined computational processing according to a program stored in the memory, writing the computational results to the memory's working space while executing various control processes. The memory is, for example, a volatile memory such as RAM (Random Access Memory), and is used for the computational processing performed by the processor. In this embodiment, the control unit 11 reads the program stored in the memory, follows this program, and primarily performs processing to make the light-emitting unit 12 emit light or output sound from the sound-emitting unit 16.

[0038] The light-emitting unit 12 is configured to emit light based on control performed by the control unit 11. The light-emitting unit 12 includes, for example, a light-emitting element such as an LED. Preferably, each light-emitting element has one or more red LEDs emitting red light, green LEDs emitting green light, and blue LEDs emitting blue light. The light-emitting element preferably employs elements capable of changing the flickering period and phase, luminous intensity (brightness), and luminous color. However, the light-emitting element is not limited to LEDs; known light-emitting elements such as incandescent bulbs can also be used. For example, even with an incandescent bulb, the flickering period and phase, and luminous intensity can be adjusted.

[0039] The IC tag 13 is an electronic device that transmits wireless signals to determine the location of the cup 20 (specifically, the light-emitting device 10). The IC tag 13 is implemented, for example, using a wireless signal transmitter such as RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) or Bluetooth (registered trademark), and communicates with the location management device 40 via non-contact, short-range wireless communication using electromagnetic fields and radio waves. Furthermore, in this invention, the circuitry of the IC tag 13 can be, for example, passive, semi-passive, or have a circuitry constructed based on these.

[0040] The IC tag 13 essentially comprises an IC chip and a transmitting circuit. The IC chip has a storage circuit that stores ID information (tag ID) inherent to the IC tag 13 or inherent to the object to which the IC tag 13 is attached, and the transmitting circuit transmits a wireless signal including this tag ID. For example, a passive IC tag 13 receives radio waves transmitted from the location management device 40, converts the received radio waves into an electromotive force through an antenna coil and a Schottky diode, and uses this electromotive force to activate the IC chip. Once activated, the IC chip reads the inherent tag ID stored in the storage circuit and transmits the read tag ID to the location management device 40 via the transmitting circuit. Furthermore, the IC tag 13 can also be a semi-passive type. A semi-passive IC tag 13 receives radio waves transmitted from the location management device 40, which triggers the operation of its internal power supply. Then, using the power obtained from the power supply, the IC chip is activated, and the inherent tag ID stored in the storage circuit is transmitted to the location management device 40. The wireless signal emitted from IC tag 13 can reach a radius of approximately 1m to 15m, and the range of its wireless signal can be adjusted appropriately.

[0041] Storage unit 14 is primarily used to store light-emitting data, which is used to control the light-emitting state. Storage unit 14 is composed of non-volatile memory such as ROM (Read Only Memory). Furthermore, it is preferable that when the light-emitting device 10 receives new light-emitting data from the management device 50, the control unit 11 deletes the old light-emitting data from storage unit 14 and rewrites the new light-emitting data into storage unit 14. Moreover, storage unit 14 is not a necessary element; the memory of the control unit 11 can be used instead of storage unit 14 described herein. That is, light-emitting data can also be stored in the memory of the control unit 11 in advance.

[0042] The communication unit 15 is an element used for transmitting and receiving various data with the management device 50. The communication unit 15 has the function of wirelessly communicating with the management device 50 via a wireless LAN (Local Area Network). Specifically, the communication unit 15 has an antenna for transmitting and receiving carrier waves used for wireless communication. An example of data received by the communication unit 15 is light emission data used to control the light emission state of the light-emitting unit 12. If the control unit 11 receives the light emission data through the communication unit 15, it records the light emission data in the storage unit 14 or a memory.

[0043] The sound output section 16 is an element used to output sound and sound effects. As the sound output section 16, a general loudspeaker that emits sound waves (air vibrations) using air as a medium can be used. The sound output section 16 outputs sound effects, for example, together with a light show performed by the light-emitting section 12. The sound output section 16 is an arbitrary element and does not necessarily need to be installed in the light-emitting section 12.

[0044] The liquid detection sensor 17 is a sensor used to detect liquid present in the liquid space 24 of the cup 20. Examples of liquid detection sensors 17 are capacitive sensors and photoelectric sensors, but capacitive sensors are particularly preferred. The capacitive sensor is configured such that its measuring surface faces the partition wall 23 of the cup 20. Capacitive sensors detect the presence or absence of liquid by utilizing the phase difference generated by the difference in the relative capacitance of the substances. For example, in the case where the liquid detection sensor 17 is a photoelectric sensor, there is a problem that the detection becomes unstable if the color of the liquid itself stored in the liquid space 24 and the color of the light illuminating the liquid change, but with a capacitive sensor, stable detection can be performed even if the color of the liquid and the color of the light change.

[0045] Accelerometer 18 is used to measure the acceleration of the movement of a cup 20 equipped with a light-emitting device 10. By processing the acceleration measurement data from accelerometer 18 using control unit 11, the acceleration, vibration, and tilt of the light-emitting device 10 can be calculated, for example. Accelerometer 18 measures, for example, the acceleration, movement time, and direction of movement of the cup 20 moving in three-dimensional space. Furthermore, accelerometer 18 is also used to measure the tilt angle of the cup 20 equipped with the light-emitting device 10. Accelerometer 18 measures the tilt angle of the cup 20 by obtaining the gravitational acceleration acting on the cup 20 as orientation information, for example.

[0046] Figure 3 This is a block diagram showing the central management device 30 and the location management device 40 that constitute the management device 50. The central management device 30 and the location management device 40 are connected via a bus and exchange information with each other. These central management devices 30 and location management devices 40 can be configured as a single unit, but in this embodiment, for convenience, the functions of the device are distributed across two computer devices. Therefore, the functional blocks of the central management device 30 and the location management device 40 described herein are just examples, and for example, elements of the central management device 30 can also be provided in the location management device 40, or conversely, elements of the location management device 40 can also be provided in the central management device 30.

[0047] The central management device 30 is basically responsible for controlling the light emission status of multiple light-emitting devices 10. Specifically, the central management device 30 generates light emission data for controlling each light-emitting device 10 and sends this data to each light-emitting device 10. The central management device 30 is a computer-type device and has a central control unit 31 and a database 32.

[0048] The central control unit 31 controls the position management device 40 and performs calculations required to generate light emission data. The central control unit 31 is, for example, composed of a processor and a memory. Examples of the processor are known CPUs and other control circuits, which perform predetermined calculations according to a program stored in the memory, writing the calculation results to the memory's working space while executing various control processes. The memory is, for example, a volatile memory such as RAM (Random Access Memory), and is used for the calculations performed by the processor. In this embodiment, the central control unit 31 functions as a table update unit 31a, a default value determination unit 31b, a target value calculation unit 31c, an intermediate value calculation unit 31d, and a light emission data transmission unit 31e by executing a program. For details regarding the functions of these functional units 31a to 31e, please refer to [reference needed]. Figure 5 The flowchart will be described later.

[0049] Database 32 stores table data for logging information used to control the light emission state of each light-emitting device 10. This table data is updated continuously by the central control unit 31. Part or all of the information logged in this table data is sent to each light-emitting device 10. Each light-emitting device 10 retrieves the information logged in the table data and uses it as light emission data to control its own light emission state.

[0050] Figure 3 Here is an example of how tabular data is represented. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the table data uses the inherent ID information (identification ID and MAC address, etc.) of the light-emitting device 10 as key items, and has fields for logging the location information of the light-emitting device 10 and information related to the current value, default value, intermediate value, and target value of the light-emitting state. The location information field records the location information of the light-emitting device 10. The location information is information periodically obtained by the position detection unit 41 described later, such as logging coordinate values ​​represented by two-dimensional coordinates in X and Y coordinates.

[0051] In the current value field, default value field, intermediate value field, and target value field of the table data, information related to the current value, default value, intermediate value, and target value of the light-emitting device 10 regarding its light-emitting state is recorded. Although details are described later, if each light-emitting device 10 receives a target value from the management device 50, the light-emitting state is changed in a manner that passes through the intermediate value to reach the target value. The light-emitting state is controlled by the target value for a certain period of time. However, after the light-emitting period at the target value has elapsed, until the next target value is sent from the management device 50, the light-emitting state is controlled by the current value recorded in the current value field. The default value is information used to control the light-emitting state when the light-emitting device 10 detects a predetermined state change that triggers a response. In this embodiment, if a light-emitting device 10 detects a state change that triggers a response and changes its light-emitting state to the default value, then the light-emitting device 10 and other light-emitting devices 10 around it change their light-emitting states toward the target value. Therefore, they are usually distinguished into light-emitting devices 10 (first light-emitting device) whose light emission state goes from the default value through an intermediate value to the target value and light-emitting devices 10 (second light-emitting device) whose light emission state goes from the current value through an intermediate value to the target value.

[0052] The information for the current value, default value, intermediate value, and target value may include, for example, one or more pieces of information related to the flashing period and phase, luminous intensity, and luminous color of the light-emitting unit 12. Furthermore, the default value, intermediate value, and target value may also include information related to the duration (i.e., the length of time) and time (i.e., the start time and / or end time) of controlling the light emission with said value. The intermediate value may also include information related to the time and moment until the target value is reached (e.g., information on how many seconds or minutes before the target value is reached). In addition, each value may include not only control values ​​related to the luminous state of the light-emitting unit 12, but also information related to the rhythm and volume of the sound output from the sound-emitting unit 16, or information related to the machine's operating cycle.

[0053] The location management device 40 is generally installed in the same space (room, etc.) as the multiple light-emitting devices 10, and is responsible for obtaining location information from each light-emitting device 10. For example, the location management device 40 is preferably installed in a restaurant that uses cups 20 with attached light-emitting devices 10 to provide service, specifically installed on the ceiling, wall, or floor. Furthermore, the location management device 40 may also have communication capabilities with each light-emitting device 10. For example, the location management device 40 includes a location detection unit 41 and a communication unit 42. Moreover, this communication unit 42 may also be installed on the side of the central management device 30.

[0054] The position detection unit 41 includes a reader that receives wireless signals transmitted from the IC tag of the light-emitting device 10. For example, multiple wireless signal readers are installed on the ceiling or wall. Each reader measures the distance from the IC tag to the reader by detecting the strength of the wireless signal transmitted from the IC tag of the light-emitting device 10. The position detection unit 41 can calculate the coordinates (X, Y) of the light-emitting device 10 using triangulation or similar methods by calculating the distances from the multiple readers to the light-emitting device 10. Furthermore, the wireless signal transmitted from the IC tag includes ID information for each light-emitting device 10; therefore, the position detection unit 41 can determine the light-emitting device 10 located at the coordinates measured above based on this ID information. The position detection unit 41 periodically acquires the position information (coordinates) of each light-emitting device 10 and transmits it to the central control unit 31. The central control unit 31 registers the position information received from the position detection unit 41 in a table within the database 32.

[0055] The communication unit 42 is an element used to transmit and receive various data with each of the light-emitting devices 10. Like the communication unit 15 of the aforementioned light-emitting device 10, the communication unit 42 has the function of wireless communication in a wireless LAN (Local Area Network) manner. An example of data transmitted by the communication unit 42 is light-emitting data used to control the light-emitting state of the light-emitting unit 12.

[0056] Next, refer to Figure 4 This illustrates an example of the basic light-emitting process of the light-emitting device 10 assembled on the cup 20. For example... Figure 4 As shown, in this embodiment, when the control unit 11 of the light-emitting device 10 detects liquid in the cup 20 via the liquid detection sensor 17, it starts the light-emitting unit 12 to emit light (steps S1-1, S1-2). During this stage, the light-emitting state of the light-emitting unit 12 is controlled based on the aforementioned "current value". Furthermore, when no liquid is poured into the cup 20, the light-emitting unit 12 will not emit light and will remain off. Also, a predetermined sound effect can be output from the sound output unit 16 when the light emission begins. Furthermore, background music (BGM) can be continuously output from the sound output unit 16 during the light emission period.

[0057] Next, when the control unit 11 of the light-emitting device 10 detects an acceleration exceeding a predetermined threshold via the acceleration sensor 18, it changes the light-emitting state of the light-emitting unit 12 (steps S1-3, S1-4). The acceleration threshold can be set to a generally assumed value, for example, the acceleration when a person picks up the cup 20 with their hand or the acceleration when the cup 20 is moved laterally. When an acceleration exceeding the threshold is detected, the control unit 11 may, for example, start the flashing of the light-emitting unit 12, change the flashing period, or change the light color. At this stage, the light-emitting state of the light-emitting unit 12 is controlled based on the aforementioned "default value". Furthermore, the light-emitting state can be changed, and a predetermined effect sound can be output from the sound output unit 16, or, if background music (BGM) has already been output, the rhythm and volume of the BGM can be changed, or the BGM itself can be switched.

[0058] Furthermore, although the trigger for changing the light emission state is the detection of a predetermined acceleration, the trigger is not limited to acceleration. For example, the detection of a change in the tilt of the cup 20, a change in the height of the cup 20, a change in the temperature of the liquid inside the cup 20, or vibration of the cup 20 can also be used as triggers for changing the light emission state. Additionally, the detection of the cup 20 being held by a person or a change in the brightness around the cup 20 can also be used as triggers for changing the light emission state. In this case, it is sufficient to assemble a sensor suitable for detecting the above-mentioned triggers (tilt sensor, height sensor, temperature sensor, vibration sensor, pressure sensor, brightness sensor, etc.) into the light emission device 10.

[0059] Next, when the control unit 11 of the light-emitting device 10 detects a tilt angle of the cup 20 exceeding a predetermined threshold via the accelerometer 18, it stops the light emission of the light-emitting unit 12 (steps S1-5, S1-6). The tilt angle threshold can be set to the angle of the cup 20 required to hold it in one's hand and drink the liquid poured into it. Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, the trigger for changing the light emission state is set to the acceleration when the cup 20 is picked up by hand. Therefore, it is not assumed that the user will use a straw when drinking the liquid in the cup 20, but rather that the user will hold the cup 20 directly in their hand and drink. If one wants to hold the cup 20 in one's hand and drink the liquid, the tilt angle of the cup 20 must be set to a certain angle or higher. Therefore, it is sufficient to set this angle as the threshold. The light-emitting unit 12 remains lit until the tilt angle of the cup 20 exceeds the threshold. Thus, by setting the trigger for stopping the light emission to the tilt angle of the cup 20, even if some water droplets remain inside the cup 20, the light emission of the light-emitting unit 12 can be reliably stopped.

[0060] like Figure 4 As shown in the flowchart, the period from when the light-emitting unit 12 starts emitting light (step S1-2) to when it stops emitting light (step S1-6) is the light-emitting period of the light-emitting device 10. Furthermore, for the light-emitting device 10 during its light-emitting period, a process is performed to synchronize its light-emitting state with that of other light-emitting devices 10 that are also during their light-emitting periods. (Refer to...) Figure 5 and Figure 6 This will explain the luminescence synchronization process in more detail.

[0061] Figure 5 This describes the processing of the light-emitting device 10 and the management device 50 (central management device 30 and position management device 40) during the light emission period. In this specification, for convenience, the light-emitting device 10 that detects a state change that triggers a change in the light emission state and changes the light emission state to the default value (steps S1-3, S1-4) is designated as the "first light-emitting device," and other light-emitting devices 10 are designated as "second light-emitting devices." That is, the first light-emitting device is the device that affects one or more second light-emitting devices, and the second light-emitting devices are the devices that are affected by the first light-emitting device. Furthermore, Figure 6 An example schematically illustrating the light emission modes of the first and second light-emitting devices.

[0062] like Figure 5 As shown, the first and second light-emitting devices 10 control the light-emitting state based on the current value (step S2-1). The light-emitting state here is essentially the same as... Figure 4Steps S1-2 shown are the same. The current value of each light-emitting device 10 can be a value determined by the management device 50, or it can be a value inherent to each light-emitting device 10. In the case where the current value is determined by the management device 50, the central control unit 31 of the management device 50, for example, randomly determines the current value of each light-emitting device 10 and transmits it to each light-emitting device 10 in advance. At this time, the central control unit 31 only needs to extract the ID information and current value information of all light-emitting devices 10 from the table data registered in the database 32, and transmit (broadcast) them all at once to each light-emitting device 10 in advance. Then, each light-emitting device 10 extracts the current value information associated with its own ID information and uses it for controlling the light-emitting state. Thus, compared to the case where communication is performed individually from the management device 50 to each light-emitting device 10, communication volume can be saved.

[0063] Next, the periodic processing performed between the first and second light-emitting devices 10 and the management device 50 will be described. In this periodic processing, a wireless signal for position measurement is sent from the IC tag 13 of each light-emitting device 10 (step S2-2), and the position detection unit 41 of the management device 50 obtains the position information of each light-emitting device 10 based on this wireless signal (step S2-3). The position information of each light-emitting device 10 is then transmitted to the central control unit 31.

[0064] Next, the default value determination unit 31b of the management device 50 determines the default value of each light-emitting device 10 (steps S2-4). The default value can be a randomly determined value or a value determined based on the position information of each light-emitting device 10. For example, for light-emitting devices 10 located within a predetermined distance, the same default value can be set, or a default value corresponding to other light performance situations can be set. For example, for light-emitting devices 10 arranged on the same table with the same flashing period, default values ​​with different emission colors can be set, and the default values ​​can be appropriately adjusted according to the light performance situation. Furthermore, for example, two light-emitting devices 10 that are closest to each other can be paired, and a default value can be determined for each pair. For example, for light-emitting devices 10 that form a pair, a default value that reverses the flashing phase or changes the emission color can be assigned while unifying the flashing period.

[0065] Next, the table update unit 31a of the management device 50 updates the table data recorded in the database 32 (step S2-5). Specifically, the latest location information of each light-emitting device 10 obtained in step S2-3 is entered into the location information field. Furthermore, the new default values ​​of each light-emitting device 10 determined in step S2-4 are entered into the default value field. In this way, the information in the table data is updated at any time by the table update unit 31a.

[0066] Next, when the default values ​​of each light-emitting device 10 change, the light-emitting data transmission unit 31e of the management device 50 transmits (broadcasts) light-emitting data including the latest default values ​​to all light-emitting devices 10 simultaneously via the communication unit 42 (step S2-6). Specifically, the central control unit 31 of the management device 50 only needs to extract the ID information and default values ​​of all light-emitting devices 10 from the table data registered in the database 32 and transmit them to each light-emitting device 10 in advance. Then, each light-emitting device 10 extracts the default value associated with its own ID information and uses it for controlling the light-emitting state. As a result, compared to the case where the management device 50 communicates with each light-emitting device 10 individually, the amount of communication can be saved. If each light-emitting device 10 receives light-emitting data including the new default values ​​from the management device 50, it saves this data in the memory or storage unit 14 (step S2-7). Furthermore, if the default values ​​have not changed, this simultaneous transmission process can be omitted (steps S2-6, S2-7).

[0067] Thus far, a process is formed that is periodically and automatically executed between each light-emitting device 10 and the management device 50. The cycle of this periodic process can be adjusted appropriately, but it is preferred to perform the periodic process at a cycle of, for example, every 5 minutes, every 10 minutes, every 15 minutes, every 20 minutes, every 25 minutes, or every 30 minutes.

[0068] Next, the interaction processing for the case where a predetermined state change (acceleration above a threshold in this embodiment) is detected in the first light-emitting device 10 will be explained. This interaction processing differs from the periodic processing (steps S2-2 to S2-7) described above, and is performed whenever a predetermined state change that becomes a trigger is detected. In other words, the interaction processing is not performed as long as a predetermined state change that becomes a trigger is not detected.

[0069] First, if an acceleration exceeding a predetermined threshold is detected in the first light-emitting device 10, the light-emitting state of the first light-emitting device 10 is changed back to the default value. This initiates interactive processing. For example, if a cup 20 equipped with the first light-emitting device 10 is picked up from the table, the light-emitting state of the light-emitting device 10 is changed back to the default value. When the light-emitting state of the first light-emitting device 10 is changed back to the default value, the first light-emitting device 10 notifies the management device 50 of the main idea via the communication unit 15 (steps S2-8).

[0070] Next, the management device 50 receives a notification from the first light-emitting device 10 that the default value has been changed (step S2-9). In this case, the target value calculation unit 31c of the management device 50 calculates (determines) the target value of each light-emitting device 10 based on the position information of all light-emitting devices 10 (step S2-10). In this embodiment, the light-emitting devices 10 existing within a predetermined distance range aim to gradually approach each other in their light-emitting states and eventually achieve the same light-emitting state. Therefore, the target value calculation unit 31c of the management device 50 preferably calculates the target value of each light-emitting device 10 in a manner that makes the flashing period and flashing phase of the light-emitting devices 10 existing within the predetermined distance consistent. Furthermore, not only the flashing period and phase of the nearby light-emitting devices 10 can be made consistent, but the light-emitting color and light-emitting intensity can also be made consistent. However, it is also possible to perform a performance where only the flashing period and phase of the light-emitting devices 10 are consistent, while the light-emitting color and light-emitting intensity are different. For example, it is possible to unify the target value for the light-emitting devices 10 of the cups 20 arranged on the same table. Furthermore, the light-emitting devices 10 located at the closest distance can be paired with each other, and the target values ​​of the light-emitting devices 10 that make up this pair can be consistent.

[0071] Next, the intermediate value calculation unit 31d of the management device 50 calculates, for each light-emitting device 10, the intermediate value from the current light-emitting state (current value or default value) to the target value determined in step S2-10 (step S2-11). The intermediate value defines information about the intermediate light-emitting state from the current light-emitting state to the target value, so that the process from the current light-emitting state to the target value is not an unnatural light-emitting state. Therefore, it is sufficient to set the intermediate value as the value between the current light-emitting state (current value or default value) and the target value. Furthermore, the intermediate value may also include information related to the time and moment before reaching the target value (e.g., information about reaching the target value within a few seconds, or information about reaching the target value before a specific time).

[0072] Next, the table update unit 31a of the management device 50 updates the table data recorded in the database 32 (step S2-12). Specifically, the new target values ​​of each light-emitting device 10 calculated in step S2-10 are entered into the target value field. Furthermore, the new intermediate values ​​of each light-emitting device 10 determined in step S2-11 are entered into the intermediate value field. Thus, during interactive processing, the information in the table data is updated continuously by the table update unit 31a.

[0073] Next, when the target value and intermediate value of each light-emitting device 10 change, the light-emitting data transmission unit 31e of the management device 50 transmits (broadcasts) light-emitting data including the latest target value and intermediate value to all light-emitting devices 10 simultaneously via the communication unit 42 (step S2-13). Specifically, the central control unit 31 of the management device 50 only needs to extract the ID information, target value, and intermediate value of all light-emitting devices 10 from the table data registered in the database 32 and transmit it to each light-emitting device 10 in advance. Then, each light-emitting device 10 extracts the target value and intermediate value associated with its own ID information and uses it for controlling the light-emitting state. Thus, compared to the case where the management device 50 communicates with each light-emitting device 10 individually, the amount of communication can be saved. If each light-emitting device 10 receives light-emitting data including new target value and intermediate value from the management device 50, it saves this data in the memory or storage unit 14 (step S2-14).

[0074] Next, if the first light-emitting device 10 and the second light-emitting device 20 receive light-emitting data including new target value and intermediate value from the management device 50, they control their own light-emitting state by moving from the current light-emitting state (current value or default value) through the new intermediate value to the new target value (steps S2-15, S2-16). Figure 6 This illustrates an example of a change in the light emission state (light emission mode). Initially, the first light emission device 10 emits light in the mode (flicker period, phase, and intensity) specified by the current value. However, because the cup 20 is picked up from the table and its acceleration exceeds a threshold, it changes to the light emission state specified by the default value. Subsequently, the first light emission device 10 passes through an intermediate value mode between the default value and the target value, and finally begins to emit light in the mode specified by the target value. On the other hand, the second light emission device 10, although located within a predetermined distance range of the first light emission device 10, continues to emit light in the mode specified by the current value, and no state change occurs, such as the cup 20 being picked up from the table. However, as the light emission state of the first light emission device 10 is changed back to the default value, the intermediate value and the target value are also sent from the management device 50 for the second light emission device. Therefore, the second light emission device also passes through an intermediate value mode between the current value and the target value, and finally begins to emit light in the mode specified by the target value. The target value modes of the first and second light emission devices are consistent, and during the light emission period at the target value, the flicker period, phase, and intensity of the first and second light emission devices are consistent.

[0075] Furthermore, a limit can be preset for the duration of light emission at the target value, and after emitting light at the target value within a certain period, the light emission state of each light-emitting device can be reset to its current value. Also, during the light emission period at the intermediate and target values, if a change in state occurs, such as when the cup 20 is picked up from the table, the light emission state of the light-emitting device 10 is changed to the default value at that time point. If the default value is changed, the aforementioned interactive processing (steps S2-8 to S2-16) begins.

[0076] According to the above process, by controlling the light-emitting states of the first and second light-emitting devices, a light show can be achieved by changing their respective postures and positions, allowing their light-emitting states to influence each other. By pre-assembling the light-emitting device 10 into cups 20 and other items used in restaurants, dining tables can be made more elegant. Furthermore, not limited to use in restaurants, this invention can also be appropriately applied to other indoor or outdoor events.

[0077] In this specification, for the purpose of illustrating the content of the present invention, reference has been made to the accompanying drawings. Figure 1 The embodiments of the present invention will be described below. However, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and includes modifications and improvements that are obvious to those skilled in the art based on the matters described in this application.

[0078] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0079] 10: Light-emitting device

[0080] 11: Control Department

[0081] 12: Light-emitting part

[0082] 13: IC tag

[0083] 14: Storage Department

[0084] 15: Ministry of Communications

[0085] 16: Sound Output Section

[0086] 17: Liquid detection sensor

[0087] 18: Accelerometer

[0088] 20: Cup

[0089] 21: Sidewall

[0090] 22: Bottom surface

[0091] 23: Partition wall

[0092] 24: Space for Liquid Use

[0093] 25: Space for the installation

[0094] 30: Central Management Device

[0095] 31: Central Control Department

[0096] 31a: Table Update Department

[0097] 31b: Default value determination section

[0098] 31c: Target value calculation unit

[0099] 31d: Mid-course value calculation department

[0100] 31e: Light-emitting data transmission unit

[0101] 40: Location Management Device

[0102] 41: Position Detection Department

[0103] 42: Ministry of Communications

[0104] 50: Management device

[0105] 100: Lighting Control System

Claims

1. A light-emitting control system, characterized in that, It has multiple light-emitting devices and a management device capable of wirelessly communicating with the light-emitting devices. The management device includes: The position detection unit detects the position information of the light-emitting device; and The target value calculation unit calculates, based on the position information of the light-emitting devices, a target value for one or more light-emitting states, including flicker period, flicker phase, light emission color, and light emission intensity, for each light-emitting device. The light-emitting device includes: The storage unit stores the default values ​​for the light emission state; A sensor that detects a predetermined change in state of the light-emitting device or an article equipped with the light-emitting device; and The control unit controls the light-emitting state of the light-emitting device; When the sensor detects the predetermined state change, the control unit restores the light emission state to the default value and notifies the management device of this situation. When the management device receives a notification from the first light-emitting device to restore the default value, it calculates the target value for the first light-emitting device and the other second light-emitting devices, and sends the calculated target value to the first light-emitting device and the second light-emitting device. The first light-emitting device and the second light-emitting device control their own light-emitting state in a manner that achieves the target value.

2. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The target value calculation unit calculates the target value in such a way that the flashing period and flashing phase of the light-emitting device existing within a predetermined distance are at least consistent.

3. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The light-emitting device is a device assembled into the cup, and has the following features: A liquid detection sensor detects the liquid injected into the cup; and An accelerometer sensor measures the tilt of the cup. The light source illuminates when the liquid detection sensor detects liquid in the cup. The light emission stops when the tilt of the cup, as measured by the accelerometer, exceeds a predetermined threshold.

4. The system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The sensor that detects a predetermined state change of the light-emitting device is the accelerometer. The accelerometer detects the change in acceleration of the light-emitting device as the state change.

5. A method for controlling light emission, characterized in that, It is executed by multiple light-emitting devices and a management device capable of wirelessly communicating with the light-emitting devices. The management device includes: The position detection unit detects the position information of the light-emitting device; and The target value calculation unit calculates, based on the position information of the light-emitting devices, a target value for one or more light-emitting states, including flicker period, flicker phase, light emission color, and light emission intensity, for each light-emitting device. The light-emitting device includes: The storage unit stores the default values ​​for the light emission state; A sensor that detects a predetermined change in state of the light-emitting device or an article equipped with the light-emitting device; and The control unit controls the light-emitting state of the light-emitting device. The method includes: When the light-emitting device detects the predetermined state change through the sensor, it restores the light-emitting state to the default value and notifies the management device of this situation. When the management device receives a notification from the first light-emitting device to restore the default value, it calculates the target value for the first light-emitting device and the other second light-emitting devices, and sends the calculated target value to the first light-emitting device and the second light-emitting device; and The process of controlling the luminescence state of the first luminescent device and the second luminescent device in such a way as to achieve the target value.

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