Differently controlling light output levels based on measured light in different operating modes

Abstract

A method comprises obtaining (101) mode information indicative of a current mode of operation of a light sensor or lighting device and selecting (103) a function based on the current mode of operation. The current mode of operation has been selected from at least a first mode of operation and a second mode of operation. The function defines a relationship between a reference measured light level and a target light output level. The one or more light sources are differently controlled based on a measured light level according to a first function associated with the first mode of operation rather than according to a second function associated with the second mode of operation. The method further comprises obtaining (105) a measured light level, determining (107) a light output level by applying the selected function to the measured light level, and controlling (109) the one or more light sources to present light having the determined light output level.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a system for controlling one or more light sources based on measured light levels.

[0002] The invention further relates to a method of controlling one or more light sources based on a measured light level.

[0003] The invention also relates to a computer program product enabling a computer system to perform such a method. Background Art

[0004] Typically, different types of lighting devices and / or systems are used in offices than in homes. In offices, it is often important to maintain a minimum light level at each desk. Light sensors can be used to achieve this. This is also known as daylight harvesting. Lighting devices in smart homes can also provide such functionality, but home users typically have different lighting needs and often use light scenes, such as "relaxation" scenes, "vitality" scenes, and / or "reading" scenes with different brightness and color temperature, or "Savannah Sunset", "Tokyo" or "Northern Lights" scenes to create a specific atmosphere with colored light.

[0005] US2019 / 0182931 A1 discloses a lighting system for a smart home that enables switching from daylight harvesting to light scenes. However, a disadvantage of the lighting system of US2019 / 0182931 A1 is that, although it uses a light sensor in a certain embodiment, the light sensor is only used to provide a daylight harvesting mode, which limits the usefulness of the light sensor to one application.

[0006] WO 2013 / 067389 A1 discloses an ambient light sensor that measures an ambient light level of a lighting environment and provides an indication of the measured ambient light level to a processor. The processor maps the measured ambient light level to an estimated ambient light level at a point in the lighting environment that is different from the measured ambient light level. The processor can determine a difference between the estimated ambient light level and a desired light level at a task height, and can change the artificial lighting provided by the luminaire to match the actual ambient light level at the task height with the desired light level at the task height. Summary of the invention

[0007] A first object of the present invention is to provide a system capable of controlling one or more light sources based on measured light levels without limiting the use of light sensors to daylight harvesting.

[0008] It is a second object of the present invention to provide a method which can be used to control one or more light sources based on measured light levels without limiting the use of light sensors to daylight harvesting.

[0009] In a first aspect of the invention, a system for controlling one or more light sources based on a measured light level comprises at least one input interface, at least one control interface and at least one processor, the processor being configured to obtain mode information indicating a current operating mode of a light sensor or lighting device, the current operating mode having been selected from a plurality of operating modes, the plurality of operating modes comprising a first operating mode and a second operating mode, selecting a function based on the current operating mode, wherein the function defines a relationship between a reference measured light level and a target light output level, controlling the one or more light sources differently based on the measured light level according to the first function rather than according to the second function, the first function being associated with the first operating mode and the second function being associated with the second operating mode, obtaining the measured light level via the at least one input interface, determining a light output level by applying the selected function to the measured light level, and controlling the one or more light sources via the at least one control interface to present light having the determined light output level.

[0010] By means of the system, an operating mode can be selected from a plurality of modes and / or a current operating mode can be changed to a different one of a plurality of modes, while for different operating modes the light output of one or more light sources is different as a function of the measured (ambient) light level. The system provides a user with a simple way to set the relationship between the measured light level and the desired light behavior.

[0011] Depending on the situation, the user may want different light behaviors depending on the measured light level. In a functional lighting use case, the functional lighting is preferably dimmed once the ambient light level increases. However, for decorative lighting, such as colored light scenes or entertainment lighting, the brightness of the scene may need to increase as the ambient light level increases, otherwise the decorative effect of the colored lighting will no longer be visible. The different functions may also be referred to as different light profiles.

[0012] The user may be able to set an operating mode for each individual light sensor in the lighting system or each lighting device or lighting device group associated with a light sensor. The mode may be set during commissioning of the light sensor or lighting device(s) and / or changed during use of the sensor or lighting device(s). The mode change may be initiated by the user or by the system.

[0013] For example, a user can set the mode of the light sensor via a user interface of the system, e.g., via a smartphone application when the light sensor is added to a room and configured. The mode of the light sensor can also be automatically set, e.g., based on the installation location (e.g., outdoors, study, living room, kitchen). The mode of the light sensor can be changed during use by user input (e.g., tapping the sensor device, flipping a switch) or automatically based on another system parameter (e.g., time of day, other sensor output).

[0014] The mode information may indicate a current operating mode of the light sensor, and one or more lighting devices associated with the light sensor may include the one or more light sources. For example, the system may be a sensor device including a light sensor or a light controller. When an operating mode is defined for a light sensor, a user may most easily understand the behavior of the lighting device.

[0015] Alternatively, the mode information may indicate a current operating mode of the lighting device, and the lighting device may include the one or more light sources. For example, the system may be a lighting device or a light controller. When the operating modes are defined for lighting devices rather than light sensors, lighting devices connected to the same light sensor may behave differently based on the measured light level, rather than all lighting devices connected to the light sensor behaving in the same way. This provides more flexibility.

[0016] The first function may define a positive correlation between the reference measured light level and the target light output level, such that in the first function, when the first reference measured light level is greater than the second reference measured light level, the first target light output level caused by the first reference measured light level is greater than the second target light output level caused by the second measured light level. The first function is useful, for example, in the case where the lighting device provides decorative lighting such as garden landscaping, wall washing, etc., and the light output of the decorative lamp needs to increase with the increase of the ambient light level to ensure that the decorative effect is visible. In this specification, the first function is also referred to as the daylight following function.

[0017] The second function may define a negative correlation between the reference measured light level and the target light output level, such that in the second function, when the third reference measured light level is greater than the fourth reference measured light level, the third target light output level caused by the third reference measured light level is less than the fourth target light output level caused by the fourth measured light level. This second function is useful, for example, in the case where the lighting device provides functional lighting such as working or reading, and electric lighting is not required in the case of sufficient daylight. In this specification, the second function is also referred to as the daylight balance function. Daylight balance is also referred to as daylight harvesting.

[0018] The at least one processor may be configured to change the current operating mode from the first operating mode to the second operating mode and / or from the second operating mode to the first operating mode. By allowing the operating mode to be changed after commissioning, more flexibility is provided. This is beneficial, for example, when a lighting device or light sensor is moved to a different space, or when the use of a space changes.

[0019] The at least one processor may be configured to receive user input for changing the current operating mode via a user interface of the system. By allowing the user to manually change the current operating mode, the user has full control over the behavior of one or more light sources. The user may be able to disable any automatic change of the current operating mode, for example via the same user interface.

[0020] The at least one processor may be configured to obtain information indicating the type of space in which the light sensor or the lighting device is located and / or information indicating the time of day, and to change the current operating mode based on the type of space and / or the time of day. As a first example, during commissioning, a user may be able to assign a sensor device to a room, and for that room, a default mode of the light sensor may be selected. For example, when a user places a sensor device in an entertainment room, a daylight following mode may be selected so that as more ambient lighting is available, it will increase the brightness of the entertainment lighting device to ensure good visibility of the light effects. If the same sensor device is placed in a home office, a daylight balanced mode may be selected so that the lighting device is dimmed when there is sufficient daylight. As a second example, the system may control the lighting device in a daylight balanced mode during office hours, but control the lighting device in a daylight following mode outside of office hours. This may improve the user experience, as it is not always easy for a user to manually select the most appropriate operating mode.

[0021] The at least one processor may be configured to detect motion and / or activity of a user and / or obtain a measured spectral composition, and to change the current operating mode based on the detected motion and / or activity and / or the spectral composition. As a first example, when (excessive) motion is detected, the system may control the lighting device in a daylight balance mode, but when no (excessive) motion is detected, the lighting device may be controlled in a daylight following mode, so as to support the user to have enough light when moving around the room. As a second example, when the user is detected to be working, the system may control the lighting device in a daylight balance mode, but when the user is detected to be performing a leisure activity, the lighting device may be controlled in a daylight following mode. This may improve the user experience, since it is not always easy for the user to manually select the most suitable operating mode.

[0022] The mode information may indicate a current operation mode of the lighting device, and the at least one processor may be configured to detect a current light setting of the lighting device and to change the current operation mode based on the current light setting of the lighting device. For example, if most lighting devices in an area present saturated colors, the operation mode of the light sensor may be changed to a daylight following mode. This may improve the user experience, as it is not always easy for a user to manually select the most suitable operation mode. The current light setting may be set automatically (e.g. by a routine / schedule), or manually (e.g. when a user selects a color with the help of a color selector).

[0023] The mode information may indicate a current operating mode of the lighting device, and the at least one processor may be configured to receive (e.g., via a user interface of the system) an input for selecting a light scene involving at least the lighting device, determine the current operating mode of the lighting device by determining an operating mode associated with the light scene, and change the current operating mode to the operating mode associated with the light scene. For example, if a color scene is selected, the operating mode of the lighting device may be changed to a daylight following mode, and if a "reading" scene is selected, to a daylight balanced mode. This may help reduce the number of times a user needs to change operating modes. Scenes may be selected manually or automatically.

[0024] The at least one processor may be configured to determine a color or color temperature independent of the selected function and control the one or more light sources via the at least one control interface to present the light having the determined color or color temperature. This makes it possible for a user to select a color or color temperature that the user desires, such as a soft white or cool white for functional lighting, and a warm white or saturated color for decorative lighting.

[0025] In a second aspect of the invention, a lighting system comprises the above system and one or more of said one or more light sources and a light sensor for measuring said measured light level.

[0026] In a third aspect of the invention, a method of controlling one or more light sources based on a measured light level comprises obtaining mode information indicating a current operating mode of a light sensor or lighting device, the current operating mode having been selected from a plurality of operating modes, the plurality of operating modes comprising a first operating mode and a second operating mode, selecting a function based on the current operating mode, wherein the function defines a relationship between a reference measured light level and a target light output level, controlling the one or more light sources differently based on the measured light level according to the first function rather than according to the second function, the first function being associated with the first operating mode and the second function being associated with the second operating mode, obtaining the measured light level, determining a light output level by applying the selected function to the measured light level, and controlling the one or more light sources to present light having the determined light output level. The method may be performed by software running on a programmable device. The software may be provided as a computer program product.

[0027] Furthermore, a computer program for carrying out the methods described herein and a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing the computer program are provided.The computer program can be downloaded or uploaded to an existing device, for example, or stored when manufacturing these systems.

[0028] A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium stores at least one software code portion that, when executed or processed by a computer, is configured to perform executable operations for controlling one or more light sources based on measured light levels.

[0029] Executable operations include obtaining mode information indicating a current operating mode of a light sensor or lighting device, the current operating mode having been selected from a plurality of operating modes, the plurality of operating modes comprising a first operating mode and a second operating mode, selecting a function based on the current operating mode, wherein the function defines a relationship between a reference measured light level and a target light output level, controlling the one or more light sources differently based on the measured light level according to the first function rather than according to a second function, the first function being associated with the first operating mode and the second function being associated with the second operating mode, obtaining the measured light level, determining a light output level by applying the selected function to the measured light level, and controlling the one or more light sources to present light having the determined light output level.

[0030] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, aspects of the present invention may be embodied as devices, methods or computer program products. Therefore, aspects of the present invention may take the form of a complete hardware embodiment, a complete software embodiment (including firmware, resident software, microcode, etc.) or a combination of software and hardware embodiments, which may generally be referred to herein as a "circuit", "module" or "system". The functions described in this disclosure may be implemented as algorithms executed by a processor / microprocessor of a computer. In addition, aspects of the present invention may take the form of a computer program product embodied in one or more computer-readable media having a computer-readable program code embodied (e.g., stored) thereon.

[0031] Any combination of one or more computer-readable media can be utilized. Computer-readable media can be computer-readable signal media or computer-readable storage media. Computer-readable storage media can be, for example, but not limited to: electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared or semiconductor systems, devices or equipment, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. More specific examples of computer-readable storage media can include, but are not limited to, the following: an electrical connection with one or more wires, a portable computer disk, a hard disk, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or flash memory), an optical fiber, a portable compact disk read-only memory (CD-ROM), an optical storage device, a magnetic storage device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. In the context of the present invention, a computer-readable storage medium can be any tangible medium that can contain or store a program used by an instruction execution system, device or device or connected to an instruction execution system, device or device.

[0032] A computer readable signal medium may include a propagated data signal having computer readable program code embodied therein (e.g., in baseband or as part of a carrier wave). Such propagated signals may take any of a variety of forms, including but not limited to electromagnetic, optical, or any suitable combination thereof. A computer readable signal medium may be any computer readable medium that is not a computer readable storage medium, and which may convey, propagate, or transmit a program used by or in connection with an instruction execution system, device, or apparatus.

[0033] The program code embodied on a computer-readable medium can be transmitted using any suitable medium (including but not limited to wireless, wired, optical fiber, cable, RF, etc., or any suitable combination as described above). The computer program code for implementing the operation of aspects of the present invention can be written in any combination of one or more programming languages, which include object-oriented programming languages ​​(such as Java (TM), Smalltalk, C++, etc.) and traditional procedural programming languages ​​(such as "C" programming languages ​​or similar programming languages). The program code can be executed completely on the user's computer, partially on the user's computer, as an independent software package, partially on the user's computer and partially on a remote computer, or completely on a remote computer or server. In the latter scenario, the remote computer can be connected to the user's computer by any type of network (including local area network (LAN) or wide area network (WAN)), or can be connected to an external computer (for example, by using the Internet of an Internet service provider).

[0034] Aspects of the present invention are described below with reference to the flowchart illustration and / or block diagram of the method, device (system) and computer program product according to an embodiment of the present invention. It will be understood that each frame of the flowchart and / or block diagram and the combination of the frames in the flowchart and / or block diagram can be realized by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions can be provided to a processor (particularly a microprocessor or a central processing unit (CPU)) of a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer or other programmable data processing device to produce a machine, so that the instructions executed by the processor of a computer, other programmable data processing devices or other equipment create a device for implementing the function / action specified in one or more frames in the flowchart and / or block diagram.

[0035] These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readable medium, which may direct a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other device to operate in a particular manner so that the instructions stored in the computer-readable medium produce an article of manufacture including instructions for implementing the functions / actions specified in one or more boxes in the flowchart and / or block diagram.

[0036] The computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other devices to cause a series of operating steps to be performed on the computer, other programmable apparatus, or other devices to produce a computer-implemented process, so that the instructions executed on the computer or other programmable apparatus provide a process for implementing the functions / actions specified in one or more boxes in the flowchart and / or block diagram.

[0037] The flow chart and block diagram in the figure illustrate the architecture, function and operation of the possible implementation of the device, method and computer program product according to various embodiments of the present invention.In this regard, each box in the flow chart or block diagram can represent a module, segment or part of the code, which includes one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified (multiple) logical functions.It should also be noted that in some alternative embodiments, the functions described in the box may not appear in the order described in the figure.For example, the two boxes shown in succession can in fact be executed substantially at the same time, or sometimes these boxes can be executed in reverse order, depending on the functions involved.It will also be noted that each box of the block diagram and / or the flow chart and the combination of the boxes in the block diagram and / or the flow chart can be implemented by a system based on special-purpose hardware that performs a specified function or action, or a combination of special-purpose hardware and computer instructions. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0038] These and other aspects of the invention are apparent from and will be further elucidated, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0039] Figure 1 is a block diagram of a first embodiment of the system;

[0040] Figure 2 is a block diagram of a second embodiment of the system;

[0041] Figure 3 is a block diagram of a third embodiment of a system;

[0042] Figure 4 is a flow chart of a first embodiment of the method;

[0043] Figure 5 An example of two functions is shown, each defining a relationship between a reference measured light level and a target light output level;

[0044] Figure 6 is a flow chart of a second embodiment of the method;

[0045] Figure 7 is a flow chart of a third embodiment of the method;

[0046] Figure 8 is a flowchart of a fourth embodiment of the method; and

[0047] Fig. 9 is a block diagram of an exemplary data processing system for executing the method of the present invention.

[0048] Corresponding elements in the drawings are denoted by the same reference numerals. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0049] Figure 1A first embodiment of a system for controlling one or more light sources based on measured light levels is shown. In the first embodiment, the system is a lighting device 1. The lighting device 1 is part of a lighting system 10. The lighting system 10 also includes a (light) controller 21 and a (connected) sensor device 27. For example, the controller 21 may be a Philips Hue bridge. The sensor device 27 includes a light sensor 17.

[0050] exist Figure 1 In the example of FIG. 1 , the lighting device 1 and the sensor device 27 (for example, using Zigbee) are connected to the controller 21. The controller 21 is connected to the wireless LAN access point 23 (for example, using Wi-Fi or Ethernet). Figure 1 In the example of , the mobile device 25 is also connected to the wireless LAN access point 23 (e.g., via Wi-Fi). For example, the mobile device 25 can run an application for controlling the lighting device 1. The mobile device 25 can be able to directly control the lighting device 1 via the wireless LAN access point 23 and the controller 21 and / or (e.g., using Bluetooth). The mobile device 25 can additionally or alternatively be able to control the lighting device 1 via the cloud.

[0051] The lighting device 1 comprises a receiver 3, a transmitter 4, a processor 5, a light source 11, and a control interface 6 between the processor 5 and the light source 11. For example, the light source 11 may be an LED module. In an alternative embodiment, the lighting device comprises a plurality of light sources. The processor 5 is configured to obtain mode information indicating a current operating mode of the lighting device 1. The current operating mode has been selected from a plurality of operating modes, for example, manually or automatically by a user using a mobile device 25. The plurality of operating modes comprises a first operating mode and a second operating mode.

[0052] The processor 5 is further configured to select a function based on the current operating mode. This function defines a relationship between a reference measured light level and a target light output level. The light source 11 is controlled differently based on a measured light level according to the first function than according to the second function. The first function is associated with the first operating mode and the second function is associated with the second operating mode.

[0053] The processor 5 is further configured to obtain a measured light level (measured by the light sensor 17 ) from the light sensor device 27 via the receiver 3 , determine a light output level by applying a selected function to the measured light level, and control the light source 11 via the control interface 6 to render light having the determined light output level.

[0054] exist Figure 1In an embodiment of the present invention, an operating mode is defined for each lighting device or lighting device group associated with the light sensor 17. Each lighting device connected to the sensor device 27 has its own mode. The mode can be set by the user (e.g., using the mobile device 25) or by the system. The mode can be set during commissioning of the lighting system 10 and / or changed during use of the lighting system 10. The mode change can be initiated by the user or by the lighting system 10.

[0055] exist Figure 1 In the embodiment of the lighting device 1 shown in FIG. 1 , the lighting device 1 includes one processor 5. In an alternative embodiment, the lighting device 1 includes multiple processors. The processor 5 of the lighting device 1 may be a general-purpose processor or a dedicated processor. Figure 1 In the embodiment of the invention, the light sensor 17 is part of a separate sensor device 27. In an alternative embodiment, the light sensor 17 is part of the lighting device 1.

[0056] The receiver 3 and the transmitter 4 may use one or more wireless communication technologies (e.g., Zigbee) for communicating with the controller 21. In alternative embodiments, multiple receivers and / or multiple transmitters are used instead of a single receiver and a single transmitter. Figure 1 In the embodiment shown, a separate receiver and a separate transmitter are used. In an alternative embodiment, the receiver 3 and the transmitter 4 are combined into a transceiver. The lighting device 1 may include other components typical of connected lighting devices, such as a power connector and a memory. The present invention may be implemented using a computer program running on one or more processors.

[0057] exist Figure 1 In an embodiment, the system of the invention is a lighting device. In an alternative embodiment, the system of the invention is a different device, such as a (light) controller or a sensor device. Figure 1 In an alternative embodiment, the system of the present invention comprises a single device. In an alternative embodiment, the system of the present invention comprises a plurality of devices.

[0058] Figure 2 A second embodiment of a system for controlling one or more light sources based on measured light levels is shown. In the second embodiment, the system is a (light) controller 41 (e.g. a bridge or gateway). The controller 41 is part of a lighting system 50. The lighting system 50 also comprises three lighting devices 51-53 and a (connected) sensor device 27. Figure 2 In the example of , each lighting device includes a light source 11 (e.g., an LED module). Alternatively, the lighting device may include multiple light sources. For example, the controller 41 may be a Philips Hue bridge. The sensor device 27 includes a light sensor 17. The sensor device 27 measures the light level and reports the light level to the controller 41.

[0059] The controller 41 includes a receiver 43, a transmitter 44, a processor 45 and a memory 47. The processor 45 is configured to obtain mode information indicating a current operating mode of the light sensor 17 or a lighting device associated with the light sensor 17. The current operating mode has been selected from a plurality of operating modes. The plurality of operating modes include a first operating mode and a second operating mode.

[0060] The processor 45, for example, depending on the configuration settings, may be able to obtain only mode information indicating the current operating mode of the light sensor 17, only mode information indicating the current operating mode of the lighting device, or may be able to obtain mode information indicating the current operating mode of the light sensor 17 at a first moment and mode information indicating the current operating mode of the lighting device at a second moment.

[0061] The processor 45 is further configured to select a function based on the current operating mode. The function defines a relationship between a reference measured light level and a target light output level. The light source 11 is controlled differently based on a measured light level according to a first function than according to a second function. The first function is associated with a first operating mode and the second function is associated with a second operating mode.

[0062] Processor 45 is also configured to obtain a measured light level from light sensor device 27 via receiver 43, determine a light output level by applying a selected function to the measured light level, and control light source 11 of a lighting device associated with light sensor 17 via transmitter 44 to present light having the determined light output level.

[0063] The user may be able to set an operating mode for each individual light sensor in the lighting system or each lighting device or lighting device group associated with a light sensor (e.g., by using a mobile device 25). The mode may be set during commissioning of the light sensor or lighting device(s) and / or changed during use of the light sensor or lighting device(s). The mode change may be initiated by the user or by the lighting system 50.

[0064] exist Figure 2 In the example of , the camera device 27 is also connected to the wireless LAN access point 23, for example using Wi-Fi. For example, the camera device 27 can be used to detect activity or movement of a user. Alternatively, the sensor device 27 can include an additional motion sensor, such as a PIR detector. RF sensing can also be used to detect motion and / or activity of a user. The processor 45 can be configured to detect motion and / or activity of a user based on signals received from the camera device 29 and / or the sensor device 27, and to change the current operating mode of the light sensor 17 or the lighting device associated with the light sensor 17 based on the detected motion and / or activity.

[0065] exist Figure 2 In the embodiment of the controller 41 shown in FIG. 4 , the controller 41 includes a processor 45. In an alternative embodiment, the controller 41 includes multiple processors. The processor 45 of the controller 41 can be a general-purpose processor, such as an ARM-based processor, or a dedicated processor. The processor 45 of the controller 41 can run, for example, a Unix-based operating system. The memory 47 can include one or more storage units. For example, the memory 47 can include one or more hard disks and / or solid-state memories.

[0066] For example, the receiver 43 and the transmitter 44 may communicate with the lighting devices 51-53 using one or more wired or wireless communication technologies (such as Zigbee), and communicate with the wireless LAN access point 23 using Ethernet. In alternative embodiments, multiple receivers and / or multiple transmitters are used instead of a single receiver and a single transmitter. Figure 2 In the embodiment shown in , a separate receiver and a separate transmitter are used. In an alternative embodiment, the receiver 43 and the transmitter 44 are combined into a transceiver. The controller 41 may include other components typical of a controller such as a power connector. The present invention may be implemented using a computer program running on one or more processors.

[0067] Figure 3 A third embodiment of a system for controlling one or more light sources based on measured light levels is shown. In the third embodiment, the system is a sensor device 71. The sensor device 71 is part of a lighting system 70. The lighting system 70 further comprises a (light) controller 21 and three lighting devices 51-53. Figure 3 In the example of FIG. 5 , lighting devices 51 - 53 and sensor device 71 (eg, using Zigbee) are connected to controller 21. Controller 21 is connected to wireless LAN access point 23 (eg, using Wi-Fi or Ethernet). In an alternative embodiment, sensor device 71 is connected to wireless LAN access point 23.

[0068] The sensor device 71 includes a receiver 73, a transmitter 74, a processor 75, a light sensor 17, and an input interface 76 between the processor 75 and the light sensor 17. The processor 75 is configured to obtain mode information indicating a current operation mode of the light sensor 17. The current operation mode has been selected from a plurality of operation modes. The plurality of operation modes include a first operation mode and a second operation mode.

[0069] The processor 75 is further configured to select a function based on the current operating mode. This function defines a relationship between a reference measured light level and a target light output level. The light source 11 is controlled differently based on a measured light level according to the first function than according to the second function. The first function is associated with the first operating mode and the second function is associated with the second operating mode.

[0070] The processor 75 is further configured to obtain a measured light level from the light sensor 17 via the input interface 76, determine a light output level by applying a selected function to the measured light level, and control the light source 11 of the lighting device associated with the light sensor 17 via the emitter 74 to render light having the determined light output level. Figure 3 In the example of , at least one of the lighting devices 51-53 has been associated with the light sensor 17. Figure 3 In the embodiment of FIG. 1 , the light source 11 is controlled by the sensor device 71 via the controller 21 .

[0071] exist Figure 3 In an embodiment of the present invention, a user may be able to set an operating mode for each individual sensor in the system. The mode may be set during sensor commissioning and / or changed during use of the sensor. The mode change may be initiated by the user or by the lighting system 70. During use, the user may be able to switch between different operating modes. For example, the user may be given the option in a smartphone application (e.g., running on the mobile device 25) to switch between the first and second operating modes, or a button or switch for setting / changing the operating mode may be provided on the sensor device 71.

[0072] exist Figure 3 In the embodiment of the sensor device 71 shown in FIG. 1 , the sensor device 71 includes a processor 75. In an alternative embodiment, the sensor device 71 includes multiple processors. The processor 75 of the sensor device 71 can be a general-purpose processor or a dedicated processor. The receiver 73 and the transmitter 74 can use one or more wireless communication technologies (e.g., Zigbee) for communicating with the controller 21. In an alternative embodiment, multiple receivers and / or multiple transmitters are used instead of a single receiver and a single transmitter.

[0073] exist Figure 3 In the embodiment shown in , a separate receiver and a separate transmitter are used. In an alternative embodiment, the receiver 73 and the transmitter 74 are combined into a transceiver. The sensor device 71 may include other components typical of a sensor device such as a power connector and a memory. The present invention may be implemented using a computer program running on one or more processors.

[0074] Figure 4A first embodiment of a method for controlling one or more light sources based on measured light levels is shown in FIG. Figure 1 Lighting equipment 1. Figure 2 Controller 41 or Figure 3 The method of claim 1 is performed by the sensor device 71 of the embodiment of the present invention. Step 101 includes obtaining mode information indicating a current operating mode of the light sensor or lighting device. The current operating mode has been selected from a plurality of operating modes. The plurality of operating modes include a first operating mode and a second operating mode.

[0075] Step 103 includes selecting a function based on the current operating mode indicated in the mode information obtained in step 101. The function defines a relationship between a reference measured light level and a target light output level. One or more light sources are controlled differently based on a measured light level according to a first function rather than according to a second function. The first function is associated with a first operating mode and the second function is associated with a second operating mode.

[0076] Step 105 includes obtaining a measured light level. Step 107 includes determining a light output level by applying the function selected in step 103 to the measured light level obtained in step 105. For a colored or tunable white light source, an additional step may include determining a color independent of the function selected in step 103. Step 109 includes controlling one or more light sources to render light having the light output level determined in step 107. For a colored light source, step 109 may also include controlling one or more light sources to render light having a determined color.

[0077] For example, the first function may define a positive correlation between a reference measured light level and a target light output level, such that in the first function, when the first reference measured light level is greater than the second reference measured light level, the first target light output level caused by the first reference measured light level is greater than the second target light output level caused by the second measured light level. Figure 5 An example of such a first function is shown: a daylight following function 91. The mode of operation associated with this function may be referred to as a daylight following mode (DFM).

[0078] In other words, in DFM, the lighting device(s) associated with the light sensor are controlled based on the value of the light sensor according to a function based on the positive correlation between the ambient light level and the light output of the controlled lighting device. The higher the detected ambient light level, the higher the light output of the controlled lighting device. This mode is particularly useful in situations where the lighting device provides decorative lighting such as garden landscaping, wall washing, etc., where the light output of the decorative lamp needs to increase with increasing ambient light levels to ensure that the decorative effect is visible.

[0079] Similarly, in the case of an entertainment mode, in which light effects are determined based on the presented audio and / or video content while the presentation device presents the audio and / or video content, the lighting devices presenting these entertainment light effects should preferably become brighter when the measured (ambient) light level increases, in order to create better contrast.

[0080] The second function can define a negative correlation between the reference measured light level and the target light output level, so that in the second function, when the third reference measured light level is greater than the fourth reference measured light level, the third target light output level caused by the third reference measured light level is less than the fourth target light output level caused by the fourth measured light level. Figure 5 An example of such a second function is shown: daylight balance function 92. The mode of operation associated with this function may be referred to as daylight balance mode (DCM).

[0081] In other words, in DCM, the lighting device(s) associated with the light sensor are controlled based on the value of the light sensor according to a function indicating a negative correlation between the measured ambient light level and the light output of the controlled lighting device. The higher the measured (ambient) light level, the lower the light output of the controlled lighting device. This mode is particularly useful in situations where the lighting device provides functional lighting, such as for working or reading, and electric lighting is not required in situations where there is sufficient daylight.

[0082] In some cases, some lighting devices in the same group / room may be set to follow function 91 (eg, decorative lights in the group), while other lighting devices in the group may be set to follow function 92 (eg, functional lights in the group).

[0083] Other functions of light output based on sensor input are possible, also beyond lumen output / brightness. For example, the measured light level can be used to control color or saturation, or a combination of these. These functions can be e.g. Figure 5, or a more complex function. As an example of the latter, the more complex function may be a combination of a daylight balancing function and a daylight following function. For example, if the measured light level is below some threshold, the daylight may be balanced (collected), and if the measured light level is above the threshold (or above a second threshold above the threshold), the daylight may be followed. The latter may be used, for example, for decorative lighting. The user may be able to set an operating mode for each individual light sensor in the lighting system or for each lighting device or group of lighting devices associated with a light sensor. The mode may be set during commissioning of the light sensor or (multiple) lighting devices and / or changed during use of the light sensor or (multiple) lighting devices. The operating mode may be set by the user (e.g., the user may select DCM for a kitchen table lamp) or by the system (e.g., based on a lighting device prototype programmed in the factory or a programmed property of the lighting device). For example, all lighting devices marked as functional lighting devices may default to running in DCM, while all decorative lighting devices may default to running in DFM.

[0084] During use, the user may be able to switch between different modes of operation. For example, the user may have an option in a smartphone app to switch between DFM and DCM (e.g., per light sensor or per lighting device), or a button or switch on the sensor device to change the mode of operation. Alternatively or additionally, the mode and / or parameters of the mode may be changed based on learning from the user's actual light control behavior. For example, if a light sensor is in DFM, but the user manually turns the light up when the ambient light level drops, the function or mode of operation may be adjusted (e.g., the range from minimum to maximum light levels may be reduced, or even the mode of operation may be changed from DFM to DCM).

[0085] Figure 6 A second embodiment of a method of controlling one or more light sources based on measured light levels is shown in FIG. Figure 6 The second embodiment is Figure 4 An extension of the first embodiment. Figure 6 In the embodiment, step 111 is performed after step 109.

[0086] Step 111 includes determining whether new mode information is available. Step 111 may include, for example, determining whether a user input for changing the current operating mode has been received. If yes, steps 101-111 are repeated. If no, steps 105-111 are repeated. When step 101 is repeated, the current operating mode is changed, for example, from a first operating mode to a second operating mode or from a second operating mode to a first operating mode.

[0087] Figure 7A third embodiment of a method of controlling one or more light sources based on measured light levels is shown in FIG. Figure 7 The third embodiment is Figure 6 An extension of the second embodiment of Figure 7 In the embodiment of Figure 6 Before step 101 is executed, Figure 6 Step 101 is implemented by step 133, and step 135 is implemented by step 135. Figure 6 After step 109, execute (to achieve Figure 6 Step 111).

[0088] Step 131 includes obtaining information indicating the type of space in which the light sensor or lighting device is located and / or indicating the time of day and / or indicating the detected motion and / or indicating the detected activity of the user. For example, the information indicating the detected motion may indicate that the presence of (a person) is detected. For example, the detected activity may be work or may be leisure.

[0089] For example, information indicating the type of space in which the light sensor or lighting device is located may be provided by the user. For example, during commissioning, the user may be able to assign the sensor device to a room, and may select a default mode for the light sensor for that room. For example, when the user places the sensor device in an entertainment room, DFM may be selected so that the brightness of the entertainment lighting device will be increased to ensure good visibility of the light effects because there is more ambient lighting. If the same sensor device is placed in a home office, DCM may be selected so that the lights are dimmed when there is ample daylight. In a simple embodiment, the user selects the room when commissioning the sensor device, but other means of determining the location of the sensor device may also be used. Alternatively, when adding the sensor device to a lighting system, the user may be asked what the primary use case for the light sensor is.

[0090] Step 133 comprises obtaining mode information indicating a current operating mode of the light sensor or lighting device based on the information obtained in step 131. For example, different operating modes may be associated with different time intervals during the day. In this case, step 133 may comprise determining which of the defined time intervals is currently applicable based on the (current) time of day, and obtaining mode information associated with the currently applicable time interval.

[0091] Step 135 includes determining whether a new space type has been assigned to the light sensor or lighting device and / or whether the current time of day falls within another time interval of the defined time intervals and / or whether an existing difference has been detected and / or whether another activity of the user has been detected. In any of these cases, steps 101-109 and step 135 are repeated. Otherwise, steps 105-109 and step 135 are repeated.

[0092] In step 135, the same kind of information as that obtained in step 131 is obtained, but at a later time. When step 101 is repeated, the current operating mode is changed, for example from the first operating mode to the second operating mode or from the second operating mode to the first operating mode.

[0093] The following list contains Figure 7 Examples of implementation-related use cases:

[0094] When the user places the sensor device Entertainment Area When the DFM is selected, an increase in the (ambient) light level measured by the light sensor will increase the brightness of the entertainment lighting to ensure that the entertainment effect is well visible. In addition to this, lighting in rooms that are not part of the entertainment area can be controlled to be further dimmed or turned off in order to make the effect more visible.

[0095] When the user places the sensor device dining table When on, the DCM can be selected so that if an increase in measured light is detected, the feature lights above the dining table will dim (if there is more daylight, less artificial light is needed).

[0096] When the user places the sensor device garden During the day, the DFM may be selected so that decorative / landscaping lighting in the garden will dim as the measured light level decreases, and these lighting will be at their brightest state during the day.

[0097] When used together with motion and / or presence sensors (e.g. PIR), the system can control lighting devices in DCM when (excessive) motion is detected, but when no (excessive) motion is detected, the system can control lighting devices in DFM to support sufficient light when users move around the room.

[0098] When used with activity detection (e.g., with the help of a camera), the system can control the lighting devices in DCM when the user is detected to be working, but can control the lighting devices in DFM when the user is detected to be performing a leisure activity.

[0099] Figure 8 A fourth embodiment of a method of controlling one or more light sources based on measured light levels is shown in FIG. Figure 8 The fourth embodiment is Figure 6 An extension of the second embodiment of Figure 8 In the embodiment of Figure 6 Before step 101 is executed, Figure 6 Step 101 is implemented by step 153, and steps 155 and 157 are implemented by step 153. Figure 6 Step 109 is then executed (step 155 is implemented Figure 6 Step 111).

[0100] Step 151 comprises detecting a current light setting of the lighting device and / or a current light scene being presented by the lighting device. Step 153 comprises determining a current operating mode of the lighting device by determining an operating mode associated with the current light setting or the current light scene as detected in step 151. Step 155 comprises determining whether a user input for selecting a (different) light scene involving at least the lighting device or a user input for selecting a (different) light setting for the lighting device has been received. If yes, then step 157 is performed next. If no, then steps 105-109 and step 155 are repeated.

[0101] Step 157 comprises at least controlling the lighting device based on the user input, i.e., changing the light settings on the lighting device, for example, based on the selected light scene. Steps 101-109 and step 155 are repeated after step 157. When step 101 is repeated, the current operation mode is changed, for example, from the first operation mode to the second operation mode or from the second operation mode to the first operation mode.

[0102] Therefore, in Figure 8 In an embodiment, the operating mode may change if the current light scene of the lighting device changes, for example, if the lighting device is part of an entertainment zone, if the entertainment mode is activated, the operating mode changes to DFM, and if the entertainment mode is stopped, the operating mode changes to DCM. The operating mode may also change based on the brightness and / or color settings of the lighting device. For example, if most of the lighting devices in the area present saturated colors, the operating mode of the light sensor may change to DFM. Each light scene may have an option or setting indicating an associated operating mode, for example, a colorful decorative scene may be associated with DFM, while a "reading" scene may be associated with DCM. Figure 7 and Figure 8 The embodiments may be combined.

[0103] Fig. 9 Depicted is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary data processing system that may perform the Figure 4 , 6 , 7 and 8 described methods.

[0104] like Fig. 9, data processing system 300 may include at least one processor 302 coupled to memory element 304 via system bus 306. Thus, the data processing system may store program code within memory element 304. In addition, processor 302 may execute program code accessed from memory element 304 via system bus 306. In one aspect, the data processing system may be implemented as a computer suitable for storing and / or executing program code. However, it should be understood that data processing system 300 may be implemented in the form of any system including a processor and a memory capable of performing the functions described in this specification.

[0105] Memory element 304 may include one or more physical memory devices, such as, for example, local memory 308 and one or more mass storage devices 310. Local memory may refer to random access memory or other (multiple) non-persistent storage devices that are typically used during the actual execution of program code. Mass storage devices may be implemented as hard drives or other persistent data storage devices. Processing system 300 may also include one or more cache memories (not shown) that provide temporary storage of at least some program code in order to reduce the number of times program code must be retrieved from mass storage device 310 during execution. Processing system 300 may also be able to use the storage element of another processing system, for example, if processing system 300 is part of a cloud computing platform.

[0106] Input / output (I / O) devices, depicted as input devices 312 and output devices 314, may optionally be coupled to the data processing system. Examples of input devices may include, but are not limited to, a keyboard, a pointing device such as a mouse, a microphone (e.g., for voice and / or speech recognition), etc. Examples of output devices may include, but are not limited to, a monitor or display, speakers, etc. Input and / or output devices may be coupled to the data processing system directly or through an intervening I / O controller.

[0107] In one embodiment, the input and output devices may be implemented as a combined input / output device ( Fig. 9 314). An example of such a combined device is a touch-sensitive display, sometimes referred to as a "touch screen display" or simply a "touch screen." In such an embodiment, input to the device can be provided by movement of a physical object (such as, for example, a user's stylus or finger) on or near the touch screen display.

[0108] Network adapter 316 may also be coupled to data processing system 300 to enable it to become coupled to other systems, computer systems, remote network devices, and / or remote storage devices through intervening private or public networks. Network adapters may include data receivers for receiving data transmitted to data processing system 300 by the systems, devices, and / or networks, and data transmitters for transmitting data from data processing system 300 to the systems, devices, and / or networks. Modems, cable modems, and Ethernet cards are examples of different types of network adapters that may be used with data processing system 300.

[0109] like Fig. 9 As shown in FIG. 3 , memory element 304 may store application programs 318. In various embodiments, application programs 318 may be stored in local memory 308, one or more mass storage devices 310, or stored separately from local memory and mass storage devices. It should be understood that data processing system 300 may also execute an operating system ( Fig. 9 318. The application 318, implemented in the form of executable program code, may be executed by the data processing system 300, for example, by the processor 302. In response to executing the application, the data processing system 300 may be configured to perform one or more operations or method steps described herein.

[0110] Fig. 9 Input device 312 and output device 314 are shown as being separate from network adapter 316. However, additionally or alternatively, input may be received via network adapter 316 and output may be transmitted via network adapter 316. For example, data processing system 300 may be a cloud server. In this case, input may be received from a user device acting as a terminal and output may be transmitted to the user device.

[0111] Various embodiments of the present invention may be implemented as a program product for use with a computer system, wherein the program(s) of the program product define the functionality of the embodiments (including the methods described herein). In one embodiment, the program(s) may be contained on various non-transitory computer-readable storage media, wherein as used herein, the expression "non-transitory computer-readable storage media" includes all computer-readable media, with the sole exception of temporary propagation signals. In another embodiment, the program(s) may be contained on various temporary computer-readable storage media. Illustrative computer-readable storage media include, but are not limited to: (i) non-writable storage media on which information is permanently stored (e.g., a read-only memory device within a computer, such as a CD-ROM disk readable by a CD-ROM drive, a ROM chip, or any type of solid-state non-volatile semiconductor memory); and (ii) writable storage media on which changeable information is stored (e.g., a flash memory, a floppy disk within a floppy disk drive or a hard disk drive, or any type of solid-state random access semiconductor memory). The computer program may run on the processor 302 described herein.

[0112] The terms used herein are only for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the present invention. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are intended to also include plural forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that when used in this specification, the terms "include" and / or "comprise" specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0113] The corresponding structures, materials, actions, and equivalents of all means or step-plus-function elements in the following claims are intended to include any structure, material, or action for performing a function in combination with other claimed elements as specifically claimed. The description of the embodiments of the present invention has been presented for illustrative purposes, but is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the embodiments in the disclosed form. Many modifications and variations will be clear to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention. The embodiments are selected and described in order to best explain the principles of the present invention and some practical applications, and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the present invention for various embodiments with various modifications suitable for the specific purposes envisioned.

Claims

1. A system (1, 41, 71) for controlling one or more light sources (11) based on measured light levels, the system (1, 41, 71) comprising: at least one input interface (3, 43, 76); at least one control interface (6, 44, 74); and At least one processor (5, 45, 75) configured to: - obtaining mode information indicating a current operating mode of the light sensor (17) or the lighting device (1, 51-53), the current operating mode having been selected from a plurality of operating modes, the plurality of operating modes comprising a first operating mode and a second operating mode, - selecting a function (91, 92) based on the current operating mode, wherein the function (91, 92) defines a relationship between a reference measured light level and a target light output level, controlling the one or more light sources (11) differently based on the measured light level according to a first function (91) rather than according to a second function (92), the first function (91) being associated with the first operating mode and the second function (92) being associated with the second operating mode, - obtaining said measured light level via said at least one input interface (3, 43, 76), - determining a light output level by applying said selected function to said measured light level, and - controlling said one or more light sources (11) via said at least one control interface (6, 44, 74) to render light having said determined light output level, wherein the first function (91) defines a positive correlation between the reference measured light level and the target light output level, such that in the first function (91), when the first reference measured light level is greater than the second reference measured light level, the first target light output level caused by the first reference measured light level is greater than the second target light output level caused by the second measured light level, and Wherein the second function (92) defines a negative correlation between the reference measured light level and the target light output level, so that in the second function (92), when the third reference measured light level is greater than the fourth reference measured light level, the third target light output level caused by the third reference measured light level is less than the fourth target light output level caused by the fourth measured light level.

2. A system (1, 41, 71) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one processor (5, 45, 75) is configured to change the current operating mode from the first operating mode to the second operating mode and / or from the second operating mode to the first operating mode.

3. The system (1, 41, 71) according to claim 2, wherein the at least one processor (5, 45, 75) is configured to receive user input for changing the current operating mode via a user interface (1, 41, 71) of the system.

4. The system (1, 41, 71) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the at least one processor (5, 45, 75) is configured to: - obtaining information indicating the type of space in which the light sensor (17) or the lighting device (1, 51-53) is located and / or information indicating the time of day, and - Changing the current operating mode based on the space type and / or the time of day.

5. The system (1, 41, 71) according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the at least one processor (5, 45, 75) is configured to: - detecting motion and / or activity of a user and / or obtaining a spectral composition of a measurement, and - changing said current operating mode based on said detected motion and / or activity and / or said measured spectral composition.

6. The system (1, 41, 71) according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the mode information indicates a current operating mode of the lighting device (1, 51-53), and the at least one processor (5, 45, 75) is configured to: - detecting the current light setting of said lighting device (1, 51-53), and - changing the current operating mode based on the current light setting of the lighting device (1, 51-53).

7. The system (1, 41, 71) according to any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein the mode information indicates a current operating mode of the lighting device (1, 51-53), and the at least one processor (5, 45, 75) is configured to: - receiving an input for selecting a light scene involving at least said lighting device (1, 51-53), - determining the current operating mode of the lighting device (1, 51-53) by determining an operating mode associated with the light scene, and - changing the current operation mode to the operation mode associated with the light scene.

8. The system (1, 41, 71) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the mode information indicates a current operating mode of a lighting device (1, 51-53), and the lighting device (1, 51-53) comprises the one or more light sources (11).

9. The system (1, 41, 71) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the mode information indicates a current operating mode of a light sensor (17), and one or more lighting devices (51-53) associated with the light sensor (17) include the one or more light sources (11).

10. A system (1, 41, 71) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one processor (5, 45, 75) is configured to determine a color or color temperature independent of the selected function, and to control the one or more light sources (11) via the at least one control interface (6, 44, 74) to present the light having the determined color or color temperature.

11. A lighting system (10, 40, 70) comprising a system (1, 41, 71) according to any one of claims 1 to 10 and at least one of: the one or more light sources (11) and a light sensor (17) for measuring the measured light level.

12. A method of controlling one or more light sources based on measured light levels, the method comprising: - obtaining (101) mode information indicating a current operation mode of the light sensor or lighting device, the current operation mode having been selected from a plurality of operation modes, the plurality of operation modes comprising a first operation mode and a second operation mode; - selecting (103) a function based on the current operating mode, wherein the function defines a relationship between a reference measured light level and a target light output level, controlling the one or more light sources differently based on the measured light level according to a first function than according to a second function, the first function being associated with the first operating mode and the second function being associated with the second operating mode; - obtaining (105) said measured light level; - determining (107) a light output level by applying said selected function to said measured light level; and - controlling (109) said one or more light sources to render light having said determined light output level, wherein the first function defines a positive correlation between the reference measured light level and the target light output level, such that in the first function, when the first reference measured light level is greater than the second reference measured light level, the first target light output level caused by the first reference measured light level is greater than the second target light output level caused by the second measured light level, and Wherein the second function defines a negative correlation between the reference measured light level and the target light output level, so that in the second function, when the third reference measured light level is greater than the fourth reference measured light level, the third target light output level caused by the third reference measured light level is less than the fourth target light output level caused by the fourth measured light level.

13. A computer program product for a computing device, the computer program product comprising computer program code for performing the method according to claim 12 when the computer program product is run on a processing unit of the computing device.

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