Lighting device and lighting system

Abstract

The invention provides a lighting device and a lighting system, which can realize dynamic light distribution control based on 1 / f fluctuation. The lighting device includes: a light source; an optical element that is provided on the optical axis of the light source and that controls the light distribution state of light emitted from the light source in both a first direction and a second direction different from the first direction; and a processing circuit that executes at least a light distribution control process of the optical element. The processing circuit dynamically controls a light distribution state in at least one of the first direction and the second direction according to a 1 / f fluctuation on the basis of a light distribution setting value, which is a setting value for executing the light distribution control processing.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a lighting device and a lighting system. Background Art

[0002] In the past, there have been lighting fixtures that combine a thin lens with a prism pattern on a light source such as an LED, and change the spread of light (hereinafter also referred to as "light distribution") by changing the distance between the light source and the thin lens. For example, a lighting fixture is disclosed that covers the front surface of a transparent bulb with a liquid crystal dimming element, and switches between direct light and scattered light by changing the transmittance of the liquid crystal layer (for example, see Patent Document 1). In addition, for example, a lighting control device is disclosed that changes the brightness of the lighting in a time series to achieve fluctuating light like a candle flame (for example, Patent Document 2).

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2-65001

[0006] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2009-004329 Summary of the invention

[0007] Technical problem to be solved by the invention

[0008] 1 / f fluctuations, which are a combination of regularity and irregularity, are commonly seen in nature, such as candle flames and gurgling streams, and can give people a sense of psychological comfort. For example, in lighting devices that can control light distribution, it is desirable to be able to exhibit such fluctuations.

[0009] The present invention aims to provide a lighting device and a lighting system capable of realizing dynamic light distribution control based on 1 / f fluctuation.

[0010] Solutions for solving technical problems

[0011] A lighting device according to one form of the present disclosure comprises: a light source; an optical element disposed on an optical axis of the light source, for controlling light distribution states of light emitted from the light source in two directions, a first direction and a second direction different from the first direction; and a processing circuit for at least performing light distribution control processing of the optical element, wherein the processing circuit dynamically controls the light distribution states in at least one of the first direction and the second direction based on a set value for performing the light distribution control processing, i.e., a light distribution set value, and independently according to 1 / f fluctuations.

[0012] A lighting system according to one form of the present disclosure comprises a lighting device, wherein the lighting device comprises a light source, an optical element and a processing circuit, wherein the optical element is arranged on the optical axis of the light source, and controls the light distribution state of light emitted from the light source in two directions, a first direction and a second direction different from the first direction, and the processing circuit at least performs light distribution control processing of the optical element; and a control device capable of changing the light distribution state in at least two directions, the first direction and the second direction, of the lighting device, wherein the processing circuit dynamically controls the light distribution state in at least one of the first direction and the second direction according to 1 / f fluctuations based on a set value for performing the light distribution control processing, i.e., a light distribution set value. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] Figure 1A It is a side view showing an example of the lighting device involved in the embodiment.

[0014] Figure 1B It is a perspective view showing an example of an optical element according to the embodiment.

[0015] Figure 2 This is a schematic plan view of the first substrate as viewed from the Dz direction.

[0016] Figure 3 This is a schematic plan view of the second substrate as viewed from the Dz direction.

[0017] Figure 4 It is a perspective view of a liquid crystal cell in which a first substrate and a second substrate are overlapped in the Dz direction.

[0018] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 The AA' line cross-sectional view is shown.

[0019] Fig. 6A It is a diagram showing the alignment direction of the alignment film of the first substrate.

[0020] Figure 6B It is a diagram showing the alignment direction of the alignment film of the second substrate.

[0021] Figure 7 It is a diagram of a stacked structure of an optical element according to an embodiment.

[0022] Fig. 8A This is a conceptual diagram for explaining the change in shape of light caused by the optical element involved in the embodiment.

[0023] Figure 8B This is a conceptual diagram for explaining the change in shape of light caused by the optical element involved in the embodiment.

[0024] Figure 8CThis is a conceptual diagram for explaining the change in shape of light caused by the optical element involved in the embodiment.

[0025] Fig.8D This is a conceptual diagram for explaining the change in shape of light caused by the optical element involved in the embodiment.

[0026] Fig. 9 This is a conceptual diagram for conceptually explaining light distribution control by the lighting device according to the embodiment.

[0027] Fig.10 This is a diagram showing an example of a control block configuration of the lighting device according to Embodiment 1.

[0028] Fig.11 This is a diagram showing an example of the correspondence between the state value of the setting circuit and each setting value.

[0029] Fig.12 This is a flowchart showing an example of light distribution control processing in the lighting device according to the first embodiment.

[0030] Fig.13 This is a sub-flowchart showing an example of the light distribution fluctuation control process in the lighting device according to the first embodiment.

[0031] Fig.14 This is a sub-flowchart showing an example of a light distribution fluctuation control process in a lighting device according to a modification example of the first embodiment.

[0032] Fig.15 It is a diagram showing a first calculation example of intermediate grayscale.

[0033] Fig.16 It is a diagram showing a second calculation example of the intermediate gray scale.

[0034] Fig.17 This is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a lighting system.

[0035] Fig.18 This is an external view showing an example of a control device.

[0036] Fig.19 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of a touch detection area in a touch sensor.

[0037] Fig. 20 This is a diagram for explaining an example of the display form of the setting change screen of the control device.

[0038] Fig.21 This is a diagram showing an example of a control block structure of a control device.

[0039] Fig. 22 This is a diagram showing an example of a control block structure of a lighting device according to Embodiment 2.

[0040] Fig.23 This is a flowchart showing an example of light distribution control processing in the lighting system according to the second embodiment.

[0041] Fig.24 This is a flowchart showing an example of the light distribution setting value change interruption process. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0042] The mode (embodiment) for implementing the invention is described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The present invention is not limited to the contents described in the following embodiments. In addition, the constituent elements described below include elements that can be easily thought of by a person skilled in the art, and substantially the same elements. Furthermore, the constituent elements described below can be appropriately combined. In addition, the disclosure is only an example, and appropriate changes that can be easily thought of by a person skilled in the art to maintain the gist of the invention are of course included in the scope of the present invention. In addition, in order to make the description clearer, the accompanying drawings sometimes schematically indicate the width, thickness, shape, etc. of each part compared to the actual form, but this is only an example and does not limit the interpretation of the present invention. In addition, in this specification and each figure, the same element as the element described in the figure that has appeared is sometimes marked with the same figure mark, and the detailed description is appropriately omitted.

[0043] Figure 1A It is a side view showing an example of the lighting device involved in the embodiment. Figure 1B is a perspective view showing an example of an optical element according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1A As shown, the lighting device 1 includes a light source 4, a reflector 4a and an optical element 100. Figure 1B As shown, the optical element 100 includes a first liquid crystal cell 2_1 , a second liquid crystal cell 2_2 , a third liquid crystal cell 2_3 and a fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4 . The light source 4 is composed of, for example, a light emitting diode (LED). The reflector 4 a is a component that focuses light from the light source 4 on the optical element 100 .

[0044] exist Figure 1B , the Dz direction indicates the emission direction of light from the light source 4 and the reflector 4a. The optical element 100 is formed by stacking the first liquid crystal unit 2_1, the second liquid crystal unit 2_2, the third liquid crystal unit 2_3 and the fourth liquid crystal unit 2_4 in the Dz direction. In the present disclosure, the optical element 100 is formed by stacking the first liquid crystal unit 2_1, the second liquid crystal unit 2_2, the third liquid crystal unit 2_3 and the fourth liquid crystal unit 2_4 from the light source 4 side ( Figure 1B The first liquid crystal unit 2_1, the second liquid crystal unit 2_2, the third liquid crystal unit 2_3, and the fourth liquid crystal unit 2_4 are sequentially stacked from the bottom side of the liquid crystal unit 2_1. Figure 1BIn the figure, a direction of a plane parallel to the stacking surface of the first liquid crystal unit 2_1, the second liquid crystal unit 2_2, the third liquid crystal unit 2_3 and the fourth liquid crystal unit 2_4 which is orthogonal to the Dz direction is set as the Dx direction (first direction), and a direction orthogonal to both the Dx direction and the Dz direction is set as the Dy direction (second direction).

[0045] The first liquid crystal cell 2_1, the second liquid crystal cell 2_2, the third liquid crystal cell 2_3, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4 are respectively of the same structure. In the present disclosure, the first liquid crystal cell 2_1 and the fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4 are set as liquid crystal cells for p-wave polarization. In addition, the second liquid crystal cell 2_2 and the third liquid crystal cell 2_3 are liquid crystal cells for s-wave polarization. Hereinafter, the first liquid crystal cell 2_1, the second liquid crystal cell 2_2, the third liquid crystal cell 2_3, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4 are also collectively referred to as "liquid crystal cell 2".

[0046] The liquid crystal cell 2 includes a first substrate 5 and a second substrate 6 . Figure 2 This is a schematic plan view of the first substrate as viewed from the Dz direction. Figure 3 This is a schematic top view of the second substrate viewed from the Dz direction. Figure 3 In the figure, the driving electrodes are electrodes that can be seen only through the substrate, but in order to give priority to the ease of understanding, the driving electrodes and wiring are indicated by solid lines. Figure 4 is a perspective view of a liquid crystal cell in which a first substrate and a second substrate are overlapped in the Dz direction. Figure 4 In the figure, when priority is given to ease of understanding, the driving electrodes and wirings on the second substrate side are indicated by solid lines, and the driving electrodes and wirings on the first substrate side are indicated by dotted lines. Figure 5 yes Figure 4 The A-A' line cross-sectional view shown in FIG. Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 In the embodiment, the third liquid crystal cell 2_3 and the fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4 are illustrated in which the driving electrodes 10a and 10b of the first substrate 5 extend in the Dx direction and the driving electrodes 13a and 13b of the second substrate 6 extend in the Dy direction.

[0047] like Figure 5 As shown, the liquid crystal cell 2 includes a liquid crystal layer 8 between a first substrate 5 and a second substrate 6 , the periphery of which is sealed by a sealing material 7 .

[0048] The liquid crystal layer 8 modulates light passing through the liquid crystal layer 8 according to the state of the electric field. As liquid crystal molecules, positive nematic liquid crystals are used, but other liquid crystals having the same function may be used.

[0049] like Figure 2As shown, the first substrate 5 includes, on the liquid crystal layer 8 side of the base material 9: a plurality of drive electrodes 10a, 10b; a plurality of metal wirings 11a, 11b for supplying drive voltages to the drive electrodes 10a, 10b; and a plurality of metal wirings 11c, 11d for supplying drive voltages to a plurality of drive electrodes 13a, 13b (see FIG. 1 ) provided on the second substrate 6 described later. Figure 3 ) is applied with a driving voltage. The metal wirings 11a, 11b, 11c, and 11d are provided in the wiring layer of the first substrate 5. The metal wirings 11a, 11b, 11c, and 11d are provided at intervals in the wiring layer on the first substrate 5. Hereinafter, the plurality of driving electrodes 10a and 10b are sometimes referred to as “driving electrodes 10”. In addition, the plurality of metal wirings 11a, 11b, 11c, and 11d are sometimes referred to as “first metal wirings 11”. Figure 2 As shown, in the third liquid crystal cell 2_3 and the fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4, the driving electrode 10 on the first substrate 5 extends along the Dx direction. In addition, in the first liquid crystal cell 2_1 and the second liquid crystal cell 2_2, the driving electrode 10 on the first substrate 5 extends along the Dy direction.

[0050] like Figure 3 As shown, in Figure 5 The liquid crystal layer 8 side of the base material 12 of the second substrate 6 shown in the figure has: a plurality of driving electrodes 13a, 13b; and a plurality of metal wirings 14a, 14b for supplying a driving voltage applied to these driving electrodes 13. The metal wirings 14a, 14b are provided in the wiring layer of the second substrate 6. The metal wirings 14a, 14b are provided at intervals in the wiring layer on the second substrate 6. Hereinafter, the plurality of driving electrodes 13a, 13b are sometimes referred to as "driving electrodes 13". In addition, the plurality of metal wirings 14a, 14b are sometimes referred to as "second metal wirings 14". Figure 3 As shown, in the third liquid crystal cell 2_3 and the fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4, the driving electrode 13 on the second substrate 6 extends along the Dy direction. In addition, in the first liquid crystal cell 2_1 and the second liquid crystal cell 2_2, the driving electrode 13 on the second substrate 6 extends along the Dx direction.

[0051] The driving electrode 10 and the driving electrode 13 are translucent electrodes formed of a translucent conductive material (translucent conductive oxide) such as ITO (Indium Tin Oxide). The first substrate 5 and the second substrate 6 are translucent substrates such as glass and resin. The first metal wiring 11 and the second metal wiring 14 are formed of at least one metal material selected from aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), silver (Ag), molybdenum (Mo) or alloys thereof. In addition, the first metal wiring 11 and the second metal wiring 14 may also be a laminated body formed by stacking multiple layers using more than one of these metal materials. The electrical resistance of at least one metal material selected from aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), silver (Ag), molybdenum (Mo) or alloys thereof is lower than that of translucent conductive oxides such as ITO.

[0052] Metal wiring 11c of first substrate 5 and metal wiring 14a of second substrate 6 are connected by via 15a formed of, for example, conductive paste. Metal wiring 11d of first substrate 5 and metal wiring 14b of second substrate 6 are connected by via 15b formed of, for example, conductive paste.

[0053] In addition, connection (Flex-on-Board) terminal portions 16a and 16b connected to flexible printed circuits (FPC) (not shown) are provided in the region on the first substrate 5 that does not overlap with the second substrate 6 in the Dz direction. The connection terminal portions 16a and 16b have four connection terminals corresponding to the metal wirings 11a, 11b, 11c, and 11d, respectively.

[0054] The connection terminal portions 16a and 16b are provided in the wiring layer of the first substrate 5. The liquid crystal cell 2 is supplied with a driving voltage applied from the FPC connected to the connection terminal portion 16a or the connection terminal portion 16b to the driving electrodes 10a and 10b on the first substrate 5 and the driving electrodes 13a and 13b on the second substrate 6. Hereinafter, the connection terminal portions 16a and 16b are sometimes simply referred to as "connection terminal portions 16".

[0055] like Figure 4As shown, in the liquid crystal unit 2, the first substrate 5 and the second substrate 6 overlap in the Dz direction (the direction of light irradiation), and when viewed from the Dz direction, the multiple driving electrodes 10 on the first substrate 5 and the multiple driving electrodes 13 on the second substrate 6 intersect. In the liquid crystal unit 2 constructed in this way, by supplying driving voltages to the multiple driving electrodes 10 on the first substrate 5 and the multiple driving electrodes 13 on the second substrate 6, respectively, the orientation direction of the liquid crystal molecules 17 of the liquid crystal layer 8 can be controlled. The area in which the orientation direction of the liquid crystal molecules 17 of the liquid crystal layer 8 can be controlled is referred to as the "effective area AA". In the effective area AA, by changing the refractive index distribution of the liquid crystal layer 8, the diffusion degree of light passing through the effective area AA of the liquid crystal unit 2 can be controlled. In the area outside the effective area AA, the area in which the liquid crystal layer 8 is sealed by the sealing material 7 is referred to as the "peripheral area GA" (refer to Figure 5 ).

[0056] like Figure 5 As shown, in the effective area AA of the first substrate 5, the driving electrode 10 (in Figure 5 In the effective area AA of the second substrate 6, the driving electrode 13 (in Figure 5 The driving electrodes 13a and 13b are covered by an alignment film 19. The alignment directions of the liquid crystal molecules in the alignment film 18 and the alignment film 19 are different.

[0057] Fig. 6A It is a diagram showing the alignment direction of the alignment film of the first substrate. Figure 6B It is a diagram showing the alignment direction of the alignment film of the second substrate.

[0058] like Fig. 6A as well as Figure 6B As shown in FIG. 1 , the orientation direction of the orientation film 18 of the first substrate 5 and the orientation direction of the orientation film 19 of the second substrate 6 are directions that intersect each other when viewed from above. Specifically, Fig. 6A As shown by the solid arrow, the orientation direction of the orientation film 18 of the first substrate 5 is Fig. 6A The extending directions of the driving electrodes 10a and 10b indicated by the dashed arrows are orthogonal to each other. Figure 6B As shown by the solid arrow, the orientation direction of the orientation film 19 of the second substrate 6 is Figure 6BThe extension directions of the driving electrodes 13a and 13b indicated by the dotted arrows are orthogonal. In the following, the case where the extension directions of the above-mentioned driving electrodes 10 and 13 are orthogonal to the orientation directions of the orientation films 18 and 19 covering them is described, but they can also intersect at angles other than orthogonal, for example, within the angle range of 85° to 90°. In addition, the driving electrodes 10 on the first substrate 5 side and the driving electrodes 13 on the second substrate 6 side are also preferably orthogonal to each other, but they can also intersect at an angle range of 85° to 90°, for example. In addition, the orientation directions of the orientation films 18 and 19 are formed by friction treatment or photo-orientation treatment.

[0059] Here, a structure in which the shape of light is changed by each liquid crystal cell 2 (the first liquid crystal cell 2_1 , the second liquid crystal cell 2_2 , the third liquid crystal cell 2_3 , and the fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4 ) will be described. Figure 7 It is a diagram of a stacked structure of an optical element according to an embodiment. Fig. 8A , Figure 8B , Figure 8C , Fig.8D 1 is a conceptual diagram for explaining the change in shape of light caused by the optical element involved in the embodiment. Fig. 8A , Figure 8B , Figure 8C , Fig.8D 2 shows an example in which a potential difference is generated between the driving electrodes of the shaded substrates of each liquid crystal cell 2 .

[0060] like Figure 7 As shown, the optical element 100 is arranged on the optical axis of the light source 4 shown by the single-point chain line. As described above, from the light source 4 side ( Figure 7 The first liquid crystal cell 2_1, the second liquid crystal cell 2_2, the third liquid crystal cell 2_3, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4 are stacked in this order from the lower side of the first liquid crystal cell 2_1. The third liquid crystal cell 2_3 and the fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4 are stacked in a state rotated 90° relative to the first liquid crystal cell 2_1 and the second liquid crystal cell 2_2.

[0061] In each liquid crystal unit 2, as Fig. 6A as well as Figure 6B As shown, the orientation direction of the orientation film crosses the first substrate 5 side and the second substrate 6 side. As a result, the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer 8 gradually changes from the Dx direction to the Dy direction (or from the Dy direction to the Dx direction) as it moves from the first substrate 5 side to the second substrate 6 side, and the polarization component of the transmitted light rotates along this change. That is, in the liquid crystal cell 2, the polarization component that is the p-polarization component on the first substrate 5 side changes to the s-polarization component as it moves toward the second substrate 6 side, and the polarization component that is the s-polarization component on the first substrate 5 side changes to the p-polarization component as it moves toward the second substrate 6 side. The rotation of the polarization component can be called optical rotation.

[0062] Fig. 8A The figure shows a state where no potential is generated between adjacent electrodes of each liquid crystal cell 2. In this case, only optical rotation occurs in each liquid crystal cell 2, and no polarized light component is diffused.

[0063] Here, if Figure 8B As shown in FIG. 1 , for example, by generating a potential difference between the drive electrodes 10a and 10b on the first substrate 5 side of the first liquid crystal unit 2_1, the liquid crystal molecules are oriented in an arc shape between the electrodes, thereby forming a refractive index distribution in the liquid crystal layer 8 along the Dx direction. If light from the light source 4 passes through in this state, the polarized light component parallel to the Dx direction (in Figure 8B The above-mentioned refractive index distribution acts on the p-polarized light component, thereby diffusing the p-polarized light component along the Dx direction.

[0064] Furthermore, when a potential difference is also generated between the drive electrodes 13a and 13b on the second substrate 6 side of the first liquid crystal cell 2_1, a refractive index distribution is formed along the Dy direction on the second substrate 6 side, and the s-polarized light component diffuses along the Dy direction on the second substrate 6 side. That is, the polarized light component that changes from the p-polarized light component to the s-polarized light component in the process of passing through the liquid crystal layer 8 of the first liquid crystal cell 2_1 also diffuses along the Dy direction this time. On the other hand, the polarized light component that was the s-polarized light component when incident on the first liquid crystal cell 2_1 generates optical rotation in the process of passing through the liquid crystal layer 8, but since it becomes a polarized light component that crosses any refractive index distribution, it does not diffuse, and passes through the first liquid crystal cell 2_1 in a manner that only generates optical rotation.

[0065] The polarized light component that is the s-polarized light component when incident on the first liquid crystal cell 2_1 changes to the p-polarized light component after passing through the first liquid crystal cell 2_1, and the second liquid crystal cell 2_2 acts on the p-polarized light component. Fig. 8A as well as Figure 8B As shown, in the light incident on the optical element 100, the first liquid crystal cell 2_1 acts on the p-polarized light component, and the second liquid crystal cell 2_2 acts on the s-polarized light component. The third liquid crystal cell 2_3 and the fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4 are arranged to rotate 90° relative to the first liquid crystal cell 2_1 and the second liquid crystal cell 2_2, so the polarized light components they act on are also swapped by 90°. That is, when incident on the optical element 100, the third liquid crystal cell 2_3 acts on the polarized light component that is the s-polarized light component, and when incident on the optical element 100, the fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4 acts on the polarized light component that is the p-polarized light component.

[0066] like Figure 8CAs shown, in the optical element, for each liquid crystal cell 2, a potential difference is applied between the driving electrodes extending in the Dy direction (between the driving electrodes 10a and 10b of the first substrate 5 in the first liquid crystal cell 2_1 and the second liquid crystal cell 2_2, and between the driving electrodes 13a and 13b of the second substrate 6 in the third liquid crystal cell 2_3 and the fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4) to act on the p-polarized light component, and the shape of the light can be mainly increased in the Dx direction. This effect can be called lateral diffusion.

[0067] In addition, if Fig.8D As shown, for each liquid crystal cell 2, by applying a potential difference between the driving electrodes extending along the Dx direction (between the driving electrodes 13a and 13b of the second substrate 6 in the first liquid crystal cell 2_1 and the second liquid crystal cell 2_2, and between the driving electrodes 10a and 10b of the first substrate 5 in the third liquid crystal cell 2_3 and the fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4), the s-polarized light component can be acted on, and the shape of the light can be mainly increased in the Dy direction. This effect can be called longitudinal diffusion.

[0068] The degree of diffusion of light in each direction depends on the potential difference between adjacent drive electrodes 10a and 10b (or between drive electrodes 13a and 13b). If the potential difference between drive electrodes 10a and 10b (or between drive electrodes 13a and 13b) is set to a predetermined maximum potential difference (for example, 30 [V]), the expansion of light in this direction becomes maximum (100 [%]), and if no potential difference is generated at all, there is no expansion of light in this direction (0 [%]). Alternatively, if the potential difference between drive electrodes 10a and 10b (or between drive electrodes 13a and 13b) is set to 50 [%] of the maximum potential difference (for example, 15V), the expansion of light in this direction is 50 [%]. In addition, when the relationship between the voltage difference and the expansion of light is not linear, it can also be other potential differences instead of 15 [V].

[0069] In addition, the interval (also called the cell gap) between the substrates (between the first substrate 5 and the second substrate 6) of each liquid crystal unit 2 is relatively wide and is set to about 30 μm to 50 μm, thereby suppressing the influence of the electric field formed on one substrate from spreading to the other substrate side as much as possible. In addition, the driving voltage that generates a potential difference between adjacent driving electrodes 10a and 10b (or between driving electrodes 13a and 13b) is a so-called AC rectangular wave, which can of course prevent the residual image of the liquid crystal molecules.

[0070] Furthermore, the orientation direction of each orientation film, the extension direction of the drive electrodes of each substrate, and the angle formed therebetween can be appropriately changed for the entire optical element 100 or each liquid crystal unit 2 according to the characteristics of the liquid crystal used and the optical properties to be exerted.

[0071] In addition, in the present embodiment, with respect to the optical element 100, a structure in which four first liquid crystal units 2_1, second liquid crystal units 2_2, third liquid crystal units 2_3, and fourth liquid crystal units 2_4 are stacked is described, but it is not limited to this structure. For example, a structure in which two or three liquid crystal units 2 are stacked, or a structure in which more than five liquid crystal units 2 are stacked may also be adopted.

[0072] In the present disclosure, in the lighting device 1 of the above structure, the light incident from the light source 4 to the optical element is controlled in two directions, the Dx direction (the direction of lateral diffusion) and the Dy direction (the direction of longitudinal diffusion), by controlling the driving voltage of each liquid crystal unit 2. In addition, the longitudinal diffusion and lateral diffusion mentioned above can also be collectively referred to as light diffusion. Moreover, the shape of the light emitted from the optical element is changed thereby. The shape of the light refers to the shape of the light appearing on a surface parallel to the emission surface of the optical element, and it can also be referred to as a light distribution shape. In the following, refer to Fig. 9 The control of light diffusion degree in the present invention will be described.

[0073] Fig. 9 : is a conceptual diagram conceptually illustrating the control of light diffusion by the lighting device involved in the embodiment. Fig. 9 , the irradiation range of light on a virtual plane xy perpendicular to the Dz direction is shown. In addition, the outline of the actual irradiation range is slightly unclear due to the distance from the light source 4, the diffraction phenomenon of light, etc.

[0074] As described above, by supplying a driving voltage to each driving electrode 10, 13 of each liquid crystal cell 2 of the optical element 100 disposed on the optical axis of the light source 4, the alignment direction of the liquid crystal molecules 17 of the liquid crystal layer 8 is controlled. Thus, the light distribution shape of the light emitted from the optical element 100 is controlled.

[0075] Specifically, for example, as described above, the light distribution shape in the Dx direction changes according to the driving voltage applied to the driving electrode 10 or the driving electrode 13 extending in the Dy direction in each liquid crystal unit 2. The diffusion of light toward the Dx direction can be called lateral diffusion. In addition, the light distribution shape in the Dy direction changes according to the driving voltage applied to the driving electrode 10 or the driving electrode 13 extending in the Dx direction in the first liquid crystal unit to the fourth liquid crystal unit. The diffusion of light toward the Dy direction can be called longitudinal diffusion.

[0076] In the present disclosure, the minimum diffusion degree of the lateral diffusion and the longitudinal diffusion is set to 0[%], and the maximum diffusion degree is set to 100[%]. More specifically, when the lateral diffusion degree is 0[%], the driving electrode that functions to expand the light distribution state in the Dx direction (for example, the driving electrode 10 extending in the Dy direction in the first substrate 5 of the first liquid crystal unit 2_1) does not act on the refractive index distribution of the liquid crystal layer 8. In this case, there is no potential difference between the adjacent driving electrodes 10a and 10b, or the potential is not supplied to the electrodes. On the other hand, when the lateral diffusion degree is 100[%], the driving electrode that functions to expand the light distribution state in the Dx direction (for example, the driving electrode 10 extending in the Dy direction in the first substrate 5 of the first liquid crystal unit 2_1) acts on the refractive index distribution of the liquid crystal layer 8 to the greatest extent. In this case, the potential difference between the adjacent driving electrodes 10a and 10b is set to the maximum potential difference in the optical element 100 (for example, 30V). When the lateral diffusion is greater than 0% and less than 100%, a potential adjusted so that the potential difference between adjacent drive electrodes 10a and 10b is greater than 0V and less than the maximum potential difference (eg, 30V) is applied to the electrode.

[0077] Fig. 9 The outline a shown is an example of the irradiation range when both the lateral diffusion and the longitudinal diffusion are 100[%]. Fig. 9 The outline b shown exemplifies the irradiation range when the lateral diffusivity is 100[%] and the longitudinal diffusivity is 0[%]. Fig. 9 The outline c shown is an example of the irradiation range when the lateral diffusion is 0[%] and the longitudinal diffusion is 100[%]. Fig. 9 The outline d shown illustrates the irradiation range when both the lateral and longitudinal diffusivities are 0 [%]. That is, the outline d shows the light distribution state when the light from the light source 4 is emitted without any control by the optical element 100 (so-called directly passing through the optical element 100).

[0078] In this way, in the lighting device 1 having the above structure, by controlling the driving voltage of each liquid crystal unit 2, the lateral diffusion degree and the longitudinal diffusion degree of the light emitted from the optical element 100 can be controlled. As a result, the light distribution shape of the light emitted from the lighting device 1 can be changed. Hereinafter, the control of changing the light distribution shape of the light emitted from the lighting device 1 is also referred to as "light distribution control".

[0079] In addition, in the present disclosure, an example of a lighting device 1 capable of performing light distribution control in two directions, the Dx direction and the Dy direction, is described, but the parameters that can be controlled in the lighting device 1 are not limited to light distribution (spread of light). For example, the lighting device 1 may also be in a form capable of performing dimming control. In this case, as a parameter that can be controlled in the lighting device 1, a form including dimming (brightness) may also be possible.

[0080] Hereinafter, a configuration and operation of the lighting device 1 capable of controlling light distribution in both the Dx direction and the Dy direction by dynamically controlling light distribution states in both the Dx direction and the Dy direction by 1 / f fluctuation will be described.

[0081] In the following description, the dynamic light distribution control based on 1 / f fluctuation is sometimes referred to as "fluctuation control". In addition, the "dynamic light distribution control based on 1 / f fluctuation" in the present disclosure means control in which the size of the fluctuation (light distribution shape) changes with time. In other words, the "dynamic light distribution control based on 1 / f fluctuation" in the present disclosure means control in which the light distribution shape changes in a time series due to the 1 / f fluctuation. In addition, in the following description, the Dx direction is set as the H direction (first direction) and the Dy direction is set as the V direction (second direction).

[0082] (Implementation Method 1)

[0083] Fig.10 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a control block structure of the lighting device according to Embodiment 1. Fig.10 As shown, the lighting device 1 according to the embodiment includes an electrode driving circuit 112, a storage circuit 113, and a processing circuit 114 as control blocks for controlling the optical element 100. The processing circuit 114 is composed of a microcomputer for executing light distribution control and dimming control of the lighting device 1.

[0084] The electrode driving circuit 112 supplies a driving voltage to each driving electrode 10, 13 of each liquid crystal cell 2 of the optical element 100 based on the processing result of the processing circuit 114. The processing of the processing circuit 114 will be described later.

[0085] The storage circuit 113 includes, for example, an internal memory installed in a microcomputer constituting the processing circuit 114. In the present disclosure, the light distribution setting value S0h in the H direction and the light distribution setting value S0v in the V direction of the lighting device 1 are stored in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113. In addition, hereinafter, the direction of lateral diffusion is set as the H direction, and the lateral diffusion degree (lateral diffusion degree) is set as the light distribution setting value in the H direction. Similarly, the direction of longitudinal diffusion is set as the V direction, and the longitudinal diffusion degree (longitudinal diffusion degree) is set as the light distribution setting value in the V direction.

[0086] The light distribution setting value S0h in the H direction and the light distribution setting value S0v in the V direction stored in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113 may be, for example, setting values ​​stored in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113 when the lighting device 1 was last operated, or may be in a form sent from a control device not shown and stored in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113.

[0087] In addition, in the present disclosure, intermediate data of the processing in the processing circuit 114 is temporarily stored in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113 .

[0088] The storage circuit 113 also includes a setting circuit 113_1 for setting various setting items such as whether the fluctuation control is enabled or disabled and a fluctuation width that defines a variation width of the light distribution value due to the fluctuation control.

[0089] In the present disclosure, the setting circuit 113_1 is exemplified as a DIP switch (Dual In-line Package switch) capable of setting various setting items. In this case, the setting circuit 113_1 is exemplified as a structure including a plurality of switch circuits having two states of "0" and "1".

[0090] Fig.11 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the correspondence between the state value of the setting circuit and each setting value. Fig.11 In the example shown, the setting circuit 113_1 includes four switch circuits, and is configured to be able to set validity or invalidity of the fluctuation control with the upper 2 bits, and to set the fluctuation width with the lower 2 bits.

[0091] exist Fig.11 In addition to the fluctuation control of light distribution (spread of light) (light distribution fluctuation control), an example of using the validity or invalidity of the fluctuation control of dimming (brightness) (dimming fluctuation control) and the fluctuation width as setting value items is shown.

[0092] exist Fig.11 In the example shown, when the upper 2 bits of the status value of the setting circuit 113_1 are "00", both the dimming fluctuation control and the light distribution fluctuation control are set to invalid. In addition, when the upper 2 bits of the status value of the setting circuit 113_1 are "01", the dimming fluctuation control is set to valid, and the light distribution fluctuation control is set to invalid. In addition, when the upper 2 bits of the status value of the setting circuit 113_1 are "10", the dimming fluctuation control is set to invalid, and the light distribution fluctuation control is set to valid. In addition, when the upper 2 bits of the status value of the setting circuit 113_1 are "11", both the dimming fluctuation control and the light distribution fluctuation control are set to valid. In addition, Fig.11In the example shown, when both the dimming fluctuation control and the light distribution fluctuation control are invalid (the upper 2 bits are "00"), the lower 2 bits "**" are set to an arbitrary value.

[0093] In addition, Fig.11 In the example shown, the dimming fluctuation range when the dimming fluctuation control is valid (the upper 2 bits are "01") is set to "5[%]" when the lower 2 bits of the state value of the setting circuit 113_1 are "00". In addition, when the lower 2 bits of the state value of the setting circuit 113_1 are "01", it is set to "10[%]". In addition, when the lower 2 bits of the state value of the setting circuit 113_1 are "10", it is set to "20[%]". In addition, when the lower 2 bits of the state value of the setting circuit 113_1 are "11", it is set to "30[%]".

[0094] In addition, Fig.11 In the example shown, the light distribution fluctuation range when the light distribution fluctuation control is effective (the upper 2 bits are "10") is set to "5[%]" when the lower 2 bits of the state value of the setting circuit 113_1 are "00". In addition, when the lower 2 bits of the state value of the setting circuit 113_1 are "01", it is set to "10[%]". In addition, when the lower 2 bits of the state value of the setting circuit 113_1 are "10", it is set to "20[%]". In addition, when the lower 2 bits of the state value of the setting circuit 113_1 are "11", it is set to "30[%]".

[0095] In addition, Fig.11 In the example shown, when both the dimming fluctuation control and the light distribution fluctuation control are valid (the upper 2 bits are "11"), the dimming fluctuation amplitude and the light distribution fluctuation amplitude are set to "5[%]" when the lower 2 bits of the state value of the setting circuit 113_1 are "00". In addition, when the lower 2 bits of the state value of the setting circuit 113_1 are "01", they are set to "10[%]". In addition, when the lower 2 bits of the state value of the setting circuit 113_1 are "10", they are set to "20[%]". In addition, when the lower 2 bits of the state value of the setting circuit 113_1 are "11", they are set to "30[%]".

[0096] In addition, the number of switches of the setting circuit 113_1 is not limited to the above number. Specifically, for example, by setting the number of switches for setting the fluctuation amplitude to 3 or more, the options for the fluctuation amplitude can be increased. In addition, for example, it is also possible to have a form in which the light distribution fluctuation amplitude in the H direction and the light distribution fluctuation amplitude in the V direction in the light distribution fluctuation control can be set to different values. In this case, for example, it can be a form in which the total value of the light distribution fluctuation amplitude in the H direction and the light distribution fluctuation amplitude in the V direction in the light distribution fluctuation control becomes a specified value (for example, 100[%]), and further, it can be a form in which only one of the light distribution fluctuation amplitude in the H direction and the light distribution fluctuation amplitude in the V direction in the light distribution fluctuation control can be set.

[0097] In addition, in the present embodiment, in the following description, the light distribution fluctuation control is described, and the dimming fluctuation control is omitted. In a configuration in which only the light distribution fluctuation control is performed, the number of switches of the setting circuit 113_1 for setting the validity or invalidity of the fluctuation control may be set to 1, and the fluctuation control is invalid when "0" and valid when "1".

[0098] The state value of the setting circuit 113_1 may be stored in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113. In this case, each setting item such as the validity or invalidity of the fluctuation control and the fluctuation range in the fluctuation control may be, for example, the setting value stored in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113 when the lighting device 1 was last operated, or may be a setting value stored in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113 from the control device involved in the second embodiment described later (control device 200, see Figures 17 to 21 ) is sent and stored in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113.

[0099] The processing circuit 114 executes the light distribution control process described below. Fig.12 This is a flowchart showing an example of light distribution control processing in the lighting device according to the first embodiment.

[0100] When the lighting device 1 is started, the processing circuit 114 reads the state value from the setting circuit 113_1 of the storage circuit 113 (step S101), and determines whether the fluctuation control is valid based on the state value (step S102). Specifically, the processing circuit 114 reads the state value of the setting circuit 113_1, and determines that the fluctuation control is valid when the upper 2 bits of the state value are "10". In addition, when the upper 2 bits of the state value are "00", the processing circuit 114 determines that the fluctuation control is invalid. Here, the description of the case where the upper 2 bits of the state value are "01" or "11" is omitted.

[0101] When the fluctuation control is invalid (step S102; No), specifically, when the upper 2 bits of the setting circuit 113_1 are "00", the processing circuit 114 reads the light distribution setting value S0h in the H direction and the light distribution setting value S0v in the V direction stored in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113 (step S103), converts the light distribution setting value S0h and the light distribution setting value S0v represented by percentages from 0[%] to 100[%] into light distribution grayscale values ​​Dh and Dv of the optical element 100, respectively (step S104), and outputs them to the electrode driving circuit 112. The light distribution grayscale value Dh in the H direction is expressed by the following formula (1). The light distribution grayscale value Dv in the V direction is expressed by the following formula (2).

[0102] Dh=S0h×grayscale / 100···(1)

[0103] Dv=S0v×grayscale / 100···(2)

[0104] The light distribution grayscale of the optical element 100 is, for example, "255". In this case, the light distribution grayscale values ​​Dh and Dv are 8-bit data. The light distribution grayscale of the optical element 100 is not limited to "255". In other words, the light distribution grayscale values ​​Dh and Dv are not limited to 8-bit data. The present disclosure is not limited to the light distribution grayscale of the optical element 100.

[0105] The electrode driving circuit 112 supplies driving voltages corresponding to the light distribution grayscale values ​​Dh and Dv outputted from the processing circuit 114 to the driving electrodes 10 and 13 of the liquid crystal cells 2 of the optical element 100. Thus, the light distribution state is controlled to correspond to the light distribution setting value S0h in the H direction and the light distribution setting value S0v in the V direction.

[0106] The processing circuit 114 determines whether the power of the lighting device 1 is disconnected (step S105). If the power of the lighting device 1 is not disconnected (step S105; no), the processing of step S105 is repeatedly executed. If the power of the lighting device 1 is disconnected (step S105; yes), the light distribution control processing is ended.

[0107] When the fluctuation control is effective (step S102; yes), specifically, when the upper 2 bits of the setting circuit 113_1 are "10", the processing circuit 114 reads the light distribution setting value S0h in the H direction and the light distribution setting value S0v in the V direction stored in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113 (step S106), and sets the fluctuation range defined as the range of change of the light distribution value in the light distribution fluctuation control process described later. Hereinafter, the light distribution setting value S0h in the H direction and the light distribution setting value S0v in the V direction stored in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113 are also referred to as "initial setting values".

[0108] Specifically, when the lower 2 bits of the read status value are "00", the processing circuit 114 sets the fluctuation width α to 5 [%] and sets the lower limit value and the upper limit value of the fluctuation range of the light distribution value.

[0109] Furthermore, when the lower 2 bits of the read status value are “01”, the processing circuit 114 sets the fluctuation width α to 10[%] and sets the lower limit value and the upper limit value of the fluctuation range of the light distribution value.

[0110] Furthermore, when the lower 2 bits of the read status value are "10", the processing circuit 114 sets the fluctuation width α to 20[%] and sets the lower limit value and the upper limit value of the fluctuation range of the light distribution value.

[0111] Furthermore, when the lower 2 bits of the read status value are "11", the processing circuit 114 sets the fluctuation width α to 30[%] and sets the lower limit value and the upper limit value of the fluctuation range of the light distribution value.

[0112] Here, first, an upper limit value Shmax of a fluctuation range of the light distribution value Sh with respect to the light distribution setting value S0h in the H direction is set (steps S011 to S013).

[0113] The processing circuit 114 determines whether the value obtained by adding the fluctuation width α to the light distribution setting value S0h in the H direction is less than 100[%] (step S011). If the value obtained by adding the fluctuation width α to the light distribution setting value S0h is less than 100[%] (step S011; yes), the processing circuit 114 sets the upper limit value Shmax of the fluctuation range of the light distribution value Sh relative to the light distribution setting value S0h to S0h+α[%] (step S012), and stores it in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113. If the value obtained by adding the fluctuation width α to the light distribution setting value S0h exceeds 100[%] (step S011; no), the processing circuit 114 sets the upper limit value Shmax of the fluctuation range of the light distribution value Sh relative to the light distribution setting value S0h to 100[%] (step S013), and stores it in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113.

[0114] Next, a lower limit value Shmin of the fluctuation range of the light distribution value Sh with respect to the light distribution setting value S0h in the H direction is set (steps S021 to S023).

[0115] The processing circuit 114 determines whether the value obtained by subtracting the fluctuation range α from the light distribution setting value S0h in the H direction is greater than or equal to 0[%] (step S021). If the value obtained by subtracting the fluctuation range α from the light distribution setting value S0h is greater than or equal to 0[%] (step S021; yes), the processing circuit 114 sets the lower limit value Shmin of the fluctuation range of the light distribution value Sh relative to the light distribution setting value S0h to S0h-α[%] (step S022), and stores it in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113. If the value obtained by subtracting the fluctuation range α from the light distribution setting value S0h is less than 0[%] (step S021; no), the processing circuit 114 sets the lower limit value Shmin of the fluctuation range of the light distribution value Sh relative to the light distribution setting value S0h to 0[%] (step S023), and stores it in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113.

[0116] Next, an upper limit value Svmax of the fluctuation range of the light distribution value Sv with respect to the light distribution setting value S0v in the V direction is set (steps S031 to S033).

[0117] The processing circuit 114 determines whether the value obtained by adding the fluctuation range α to the light distribution setting value S0v in the V direction is less than 100[%] (step S031). If the value obtained by adding the fluctuation range α to the light distribution setting value S0v is less than 100[%] (step S031; yes), the processing circuit 114 sets the upper limit value Svmax of the fluctuation range of the light distribution value Sv relative to the light distribution setting value S0v to S0v+α[%] (step S032), and stores it in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113. If the value obtained by adding the fluctuation range α to the light distribution setting value S0v exceeds 100[%] (step S031; no), the processing circuit 114 sets the upper limit value Svmax of the fluctuation range of the light distribution value Sv relative to the light distribution setting value S0v to 100[%] (step S033), and stores it in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113.

[0118] Next, a lower limit value Svmin of the fluctuation range of the light distribution value Sv with respect to the light distribution setting value S0v in the V direction is set (steps S041 to S043).

[0119] The processing circuit 114 determines whether the value obtained by subtracting the fluctuation range α from the light distribution setting value S0v in the V direction is greater than or equal to 0[%] (step S041). If the value obtained by subtracting the fluctuation range α from the light distribution setting value S0v is greater than or equal to 0[%] (step S041; yes), the processing circuit 114 sets the lower limit value Svmin of the fluctuation range of the light distribution value Sv relative to the light distribution setting value S0v to S0v-α[%] (step S042), and stores it in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113. If the value obtained by subtracting the fluctuation range α from the light distribution setting value S0v is less than 0[%] (step S041; no), the processing circuit 114 sets the lower limit value Svmin of the fluctuation range of the light distribution value Sv relative to the light distribution setting value S0v to 0[%] (step S043), and stores it in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113.

[0120] Then, the processing circuit 114 uses the light distribution setting value S0h in the H direction as the first light distribution value Sh(t) at time t, and uses the light distribution setting value S0v in the V direction as the first light distribution value Sv(t) at time t, and saves them in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113 (Sh(t)=S0h, Sv(t)=S0v, step S107).

[0121] The execution order of the above-mentioned setting process of the upper limit value Shmax of the fluctuation range of the light distribution value Sh (steps S011 to S013), the setting process of the lower limit value Shmin of the fluctuation range of the light distribution value Sh (steps S021 to S023), the setting process of the upper limit value Svmax of the fluctuation range of the light distribution value Sv (steps S031 to S033), and the setting process of the lower limit value Svmin of the fluctuation range of the light distribution value Sv (steps S041 to S043) is not limited to the above-mentioned order. In addition, the above-mentioned setting processes may be performed in parallel.

[0122] Next, as a preprocessing for executing the light distribution fluctuation control process (step S200) described later, the processing circuit 114 converts the first light distribution value Sh(t) in the H direction and the first light distribution value Sv(t) in the V direction, which are expressed by percentages ranging from 0[%] to 100[%], into light distribution grayscale values ​​Dh(t) and Dv(t) in the optical element 100, respectively, and outputs them to the electrode driving circuit 112 (step S108). The light distribution grayscale value Dh(t) in the H direction is expressed by the following formula (3). The light distribution grayscale value Dv(t) in the V direction is expressed by the following formula (4).

[0123] Dh(t)=Sh(t)×grayscale / 100···(3)

[0124] Dv(t)=Sv(t)×grayscale / 100···(4)

[0125] The electrode driving circuit 112 supplies a driving voltage corresponding to the light distribution grayscale values ​​Dh(t) and Dv(t) output from the processing circuit 114 to each driving electrode 10 and 13 of each liquid crystal unit 2 of the optical element 100. Thus, the light distribution state corresponding to the initial setting value (the light distribution setting value S0h in the H direction and the light distribution setting value S0v in the V direction) stored in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113 is controlled.

[0126] After outputting the light distribution grayscale values ​​Dh(t) and Dv(t) corresponding to the initial setting values ​​(the light distribution setting value S0h in the H direction (=Sh(t)) and the light distribution setting value S0v in the V direction (=Sv(t))) stored in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113 to the electrode driving circuit 112 (step S108), the processing circuit 114 performs light distribution fluctuation control processing (step S200). Fig.13 This is a sub-flowchart showing an example of the light distribution fluctuation control process in the lighting device according to the first embodiment. Fig.13 The sub-flowchart shown is similar to Fig.12 This corresponds to the light distribution fluctuation control process in the light distribution control process shown (step S200 ).

[0127] In the present disclosure, an intermittent chaos method is used as an algorithm for realizing dynamic light distribution control based on 1 / f fluctuations. In the intermittent chaos method, the variable X(t+1) at time t+1 is represented by the variable X(t) at time t (where 0.0≤X(t)≤1.0). More specifically, the variable X(t+1) at time t+1 is represented by the following formula (5) when 0.0≤X(t)<0.5, and is represented by the following formula (6) when 0.5≤X(t)≤1.0. In the following formulas (5) and (6), the variable X(t+1) is the target value at time t+1 after time t. In the present disclosure, the execution interval of the light distribution fluctuation control process (i.e., the time from time t to time t+1) is, for example, 100 [ms]. The present disclosure is not limited by the execution interval of the light distribution fluctuation control process.

[0128] X(t+1)=X(t)+2×X(t) 2 ···(5)

[0129] X(t+1)=X(t)-2×(1-X(t)) 2 ···(6)

[0130] The execution interval of the light distribution fluctuation control process (step S200) is timed by the timer value tf. That is, the time-up value TF of the timer value tf corresponds to the execution interval of the light distribution fluctuation control process. The timer value tf is reset when the light distribution fluctuation control process starts.

[0131] When the light distribution fluctuation control process starts, the processing circuit 114 resets the timer value tf of the light distribution fluctuation control process (tf=0, step S001).

[0132] Here, first, the target light distribution value in the H direction at time t+1 is set, that is, the second light distribution value Sh(t+1). The variable X(t) at time t in the intermittent chaos method is used as the first variable Xh(t) in the H direction, and the first light distribution value Sh(t) in the H direction at time t is defined by the following formula (7).

[0133] Sh(t)=Shmin+(Shmax-Shmin)×Xh(t)···(7)

[0134] The processing circuit 114 reads out the upper limit value Shmax and the lower limit value Shmin of the fluctuation range of the light distribution value Sh stored in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113 (step S201), and calculates the first variable Xh(t) at time t using the following formula (8) which is a modification of the above formula (7) (step S202). The following formula (8) is stored in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113, for example.

[0135] Xh(t)=(Sh(t)-Shmin) / (Shmax-Shmin)···(8)

[0136] Next, the processing circuit 114 calculates the second variable Xh(t+1) in the H direction at time t+1. Specifically, the processing circuit 114 determines whether the first variable Xh(t) in the H direction calculated in step S202 is less than 0.5 (step S203). When Xh(t)<0.5 (step S203; yes), the processing circuit 114 uses the following formula (9) which is a deformation of the above formula (5) to calculate the second variable Xh(t+1) in the H direction at time t+1 (step S204). When Xh(t)≥0.5 (step S203; no), the processing circuit 114 uses the following formula (10) which is a deformation of the above formula (6) to calculate the second variable Xh(t+1) in the H direction at time t+1 (step S205). The following formulas (9) and (10) are stored in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113, for example.

[0137] Xh(t+1)=Xh(t)+2×Xh(t) 2 ···(9)

[0138] Xh(t+1)=Xh(t)-2×(1-Xh(t)) 2 ···(10)

[0139] Here, the processing circuit 114 determines whether the second variable Xh(t+1) in the H direction calculated in step S204 or step S205 is greater than 0.01 and less than 0.99 (step S206). In the case of 0.01≤Xh(t+1)≤0.99 (step S206; yes), the process proceeds to step S208. In the case of the second variable Xh(t+1) in the H direction being less than 0.01 (0≤Xh(t+1)<0.01) or greater than 0.99 (0.99<Xh(t+1)≤1.0) (step S206; no), the processing circuit 114 sets the second variable Xh(t+1) in the H direction to a random value within the range of greater than 0.01 and less than 0.99 (step S207), and the process proceeds to step S208. At this time, the processing circuit 114 sets the second variable Xh(t+1) in the H direction to a random value of 0.01 to 0.99 using, for example, a random number table stored in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113. Through the processing of steps S206 and S207, the second variable Xh(t+1) in the H direction can be prevented from being fixed at 0.0 or 1.0.

[0140] The processing circuit 114 applies the second variable Xh(t+1) in the H direction obtained by the processing of steps S203 to S207 to the following formula (11) which is a deformation of the above formula (7), calculates the light distribution target value in the H direction at time t+1, that is, the second light distribution value Sh(t+1), and stores it in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113 (step S208). The following formula (11) is stored in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113, for example.

[0141] Sh(t+1)=Shmin+(Shmax-Shmin)×Xh(t+1)···(11)

[0142] Next, the target light distribution value in the V direction at time t+1 is set, that is, the second light distribution value Sv(t+1). The variable X(t) at time t in the intermittent chaos method is set as the first variable Xv(t) in the V direction, and the first light distribution value Sv(t) in the V direction at time t is expressed by the following formula (12).

[0143] Sv(t)=Svmin+(Svmax-Svmin)×Xv(t)···(12)

[0144] The processing circuit 114 reads out the upper limit Svmax and the lower limit Svmin of the fluctuation range of the light distribution value Sv stored in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113 (step S211), and calculates the first variable Xv(t) at time t using the following formula (13) which is a deformation of the above formula (12) (step S212). The following formula (13) is stored in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113, for example.

[0145] Xv(t)=(Sv(t)-Svmin) / (Svmax-Svmin)···(13)

[0146] Next, the processing circuit 114 calculates the second variable Xv(t+1) at time t+1. Specifically, the processing circuit 114 determines whether the first variable Xv(t) in the V direction calculated in step S212 is less than 0.5 (step S213). When Xv(t) < 0.5 (step S213; yes), the second variable Xv(t+1) in the V direction at time t+1 is calculated using the following formula (14) which is a deformation of the above formula (5) (step S214). When Xv(t) ≥ 0.5 (step S213; no), the second variable Xv(t+1) in the V direction at time t+1 is calculated using the following formula (15) which is a deformation of the above formula (6) (step S215). The following formulas (14) and (15) are stored in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113, for example.

[0147] Xv(t+1)=Xv(t)+2×Xv(t) 2 ···(14)

[0148] Xv(t+1)=Xv(t)-2×(1-Xv(t)) 2 ···(15)

[0149] Here, the processing circuit 114 determines whether the second variable Xv(t+1) in the V direction calculated in step S214 or step S215 is greater than 0.01 and less than 0.99 (step S216). In the case of 0.01≤Xv(t+1)≤0.99 (step S216; yes), the process proceeds to step S218. In the case of the second variable Xv(t+1) in the V direction being less than 0.01 (0≤Xv(t+1)<0.01) or greater than 0.99 (0.99<Xv(t+1)≤1.0) (step S216; no), the processing circuit 114 sets the second variable Xv(t+1) in the V direction to a random value within the range of greater than 0.01 and less than 0.99 (step S217), and the process proceeds to step S218. At this time, the processing circuit 114 sets the second variable Xv(t+1) in the V direction to a random value of 0.01 to 0.99 using, for example, a random number table stored in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113. Through the processing of steps S216 and S217, the second variable Xv(t+1) in the V direction can be prevented from being fixed at 0.0 or 1.0.

[0150] The processing circuit 114 applies the second variable Xv(t+1) obtained by the processing of steps S213 to S217 to the following formula (16) which is a deformation of the above formula (12), calculates the light distribution target value in the V direction at time t+1, that is, the second light distribution value Sv(t+1), and stores it in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113 (step S218). The following formula (16) is stored in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113, for example.

[0151] Sv(t+1)=Svmin+(Svmax-Svmin)×Xv(t+1)···(16)

[0152] Then, the processing circuit 114 converts the first light distribution value Sh(t+1) in the H direction and the first light distribution value Sv(t+1) in the V direction, which are represented by percentages of 0[%] to 100[%], into light distribution grayscale values ​​Dh(t+1) and Dv(t+1) in the optical element 100 (step S221), and outputs them to the electrode driving circuit 112. The light distribution grayscale value Dh(t+1) in the H direction is represented by the following formula (17). The light distribution grayscale value Dv(t+1) in the V direction is represented by the following formula (18).

[0153] Dh(t+1)=Sh(t+1)×grayscale / 100···(17)

[0154] Dv(t+1)=Sv(t+1)×grayscale / 100···(18)

[0155] The electrode driving circuit 112 supplies a driving voltage corresponding to the light distribution grayscale values ​​Dh(t+1) and Dv(t+1) output from the processing circuit 114 to each driving electrode 10 and 13 of each liquid crystal unit 2 of the optical element 100. Thus, the light distribution state corresponding to the first light distribution value Sh(t+1) in the H direction and the first light distribution value Sv(t+1) in the V direction is controlled.

[0156] Then, the processing circuit 114 updates the light distribution target value in the H direction at time t+1, i.e., the second light distribution value Sh(t+1), to the new first light distribution value Sh(t) in the H direction at time t, and updates the light distribution target value in the V direction at time t+1, i.e., the second light distribution value Sv(t+1), to the new first light distribution value Sv(t) in the V direction at time t(Sh(t)=Sh(t+1), Sv(t)=Sv(t+1), step S222), and saves them in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113.

[0157] The processing circuit 114 determines whether the timer value tf of the light distribution fluctuation control process is the time-out value TF (for example, TF=100 [ms]) (step S002). If the timer value tf of the light distribution fluctuation control process is not the time-out value TF (step S002; No), the process of step S002 is repeatedly executed. The time-out value TF (that is, the execution interval of the light distribution fluctuation control process) is stored in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113, for example.

[0158] If the timer value tf of the light distribution fluctuation control process reaches the time-out value TF (tf=TF, step S002; yes), the process returns to Fig.12 The light distribution control process shown.

[0159] The processing circuit 114 determines whether the power of the lighting device 1 is disconnected (step S109). If the power of the lighting device 1 is not disconnected (step S109; No), the processing circuit 114 returns to step S200 and repeats the process. Fig.13 In the light distribution fluctuation control process shown, if the power of the lighting device 1 is turned off (step S109; Yes), the light distribution control process is terminated. Fig.13 The light distribution fluctuation control process shown is used to dynamically control the light distribution state of the optical element 100. As a result, the light distribution shape of the lighting device 1 changes in a fluctuation manner, and comfortable light can be presented.

[0160] (Variation Example)

[0161] Fig.14 This is a sub-flowchart showing an example of the light distribution fluctuation control process in the lighting device according to the modification of the first embodiment. Fig.14 The sub-flowchart shown is similar to Fig.12 The light distribution fluctuation control process in the light distribution control process shown in FIG. 1 corresponds to the light distribution fluctuation control process (step S200). Fig.13 The different points of the sub-flowcharts shown are described in detail, and duplicate descriptions are omitted.

[0162] In the light distribution fluctuation control process of the modified example of the first embodiment, after calculating the light distribution target value at time t+1, that is, the second light distribution value (Sh(t+1), Sv(t+1)) (steps S201 to S218), light distribution control is performed stepwise at a short time interval (hereinafter also referred to as "light distribution control interval") obtained by dividing the time from time t to time t+1 (that is, the execution interval of the light distribution fluctuation control process), and at an intermediate grayscale between the light distribution grayscale value at time t and the light distribution grayscale value at time t+1. The following describes a specific process of performing light distribution control at a light distribution control interval shorter than the execution interval of the light distribution fluctuation control process.

[0163] For example, when the execution interval of the light distribution fluctuation control process is set to 100 [ms] and the number of divisions N of the execution interval of the light distribution fluctuation control process is set to 5, the increment count interval of the count value n represented by the integer from 1 to the number of divisions N (i.e., the light distribution control interval at the intermediate gray scale) is 20 [ms]. In addition, the present disclosure is not limited to the number of divisions of the execution interval of the light distribution fluctuation control process and the light distribution control interval at the intermediate gray scale. Alternatively, for example, the number of divisions N input by the user may be sent from the control device (not shown) and stored in advance in the storage circuit 113.

[0164] Specifically, the time from count value n to n+1 is counted and reset when count value n is reset (n=1, step S231) and when count value n is counted up (n=n+1, step S236). In other words, when the increment timer value ts measuring the time from count value n to n+1 becomes the time-to-go value TS, count value n is reset (n=1, step S231) or counted up (n=n+1, step S236).

[0165] The light distribution target value in the H direction at time t+1 calculated in step S208, i.e., the second light distribution value Sh(t+1), is stored in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113 (step S208), and the light distribution target value in the V direction at time t+1 calculated in step S218, i.e., the second light distribution value Sv(t+1), is stored in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113 (step S218). Then, the processing circuit 114 divides the time from time t to time t+1 into N parts, and resets the count value n and the increment timer value ts (n=1, ts=0, step S231). The number of divisions N of the time from time t to time t+1 (execution interval of the light distribution fluctuation control process) is stored in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113, for example.

[0166] The processing circuit 114 calculates the light distribution value Sh(t+n / N) in the H direction and the light distribution value Sv(t+n / N) in the V direction at each time (t+n / N) after N division (step S232). The light distribution value Sh(t+n / N) in the H direction at each time (t+n / N) is expressed by the following equation (19). The light distribution value Sv(t+n / N) in the V direction at each time (t+n / N) is expressed by the following equation (20).

[0167] Sh(t+n / N)

[0168] =Sh(t)+[(Sh(t+1)-Sh(t)) / N]×n···(19)

[0169] Sv(t+n / N)

[0170] =Sv(t)+[(Sv(t+1)-Sv(t)) / N]×n···(20)

[0171] Then, the processing circuit 114 converts the light distribution value Sh(t+n / N) and the light distribution value Sv(t+n / N) represented by the percentage of 0[%] to 100[%] into the light distribution grayscale value Dh(t+n / N) and Dv(t+n / N) in the optical element 100 (step S233), and outputs them to the electrode driving circuit 112. The light distribution grayscale value Dh(t+n / N) in the H direction is expressed by the following formula (21). The light distribution grayscale value Dv(t+n / N) in the V direction is expressed by the following formula (22).

[0172] Dh(t+n / N)

[0173] =Sh(t+n / N)×grayscale / 100···(21)

[0174] Dv(t+n / N)

[0175] =Sv(t+n / N)×grayscale / 100···(22)

[0176] The processing circuit 114 determines whether the increment timer value ts is the time-out value TS (for example, TS=20 [ms]) (step S234). If the increment timer value ts is not the time-out value TS (step S234; No), the processing of step S234 is repeatedly performed. The time-out value TS (that is, the light distribution control interval at the intermediate gray scale) is stored in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113, for example.

[0177] When the count value ts reaches the time-to-success value TS (step S234; yes), the processing circuit 114 then determines whether the count value n is the division number N (for example, N=5) (step S235). If the count value n is not the division number N (step S235; no), the count value n is incremented by 1 and the count value ts is reset (n=n+1, ts=0, step S236), and the process returns to step S232, and the processes from step S232 to step S236 are repeatedly performed until the count value n reaches the division number N (step S235; yes). Thus, at each time (t+n / N) from time t to time t+1, the light distribution control is performed with the intermediate grayscale between the light distribution grayscale value Dh(t) in the H direction at time t and the light distribution grayscale value Dh(t+1) in the H direction at time t+1. Furthermore, at each time (t+n / N) from time t to time t+1, light distribution control is performed with an intermediate grayscale between the light distribution grayscale value Dv(t) in the V direction at time t and the light distribution grayscale value Dv(t+1) in the V direction at time t+1.

[0178] Fig.15 is a diagram showing a first calculation example of intermediate grayscale. Fig.15 In the example shown, the light distribution value in the H direction is set to Sh, and the light distribution grayscale value is set to Dh. Fig.15 In the example shown, the number N of divisions of the time from time t to time t+1 is set to 5 (N=5).

[0179] For example, when the first light distribution value Sh(t) in the H direction at time t is 25.09804[%], the light distribution grayscale value Dh(t) is 64.000002(≈64), the light distribution target value in the H direction at time t+1, i.e., the second light distribution value Sh(t+1) is 27.69704[%], and the light distribution grayscale value Dh(t+1) is 70.627452(≈71), the light distribution value Sh(t+n / N) in the H direction at each time (t+n / N) is calculated as follows by the above formula (19). In addition, it is not necessary to calculate the light distribution value Sh(t+5 / 5) (=Sh(t+1)) in the H direction when n=5, and the light distribution value Sh(t+1) calculated in step S208 can be used.

[0180] Sh(t+1 / 5)=25.61784[%]

[0181] Sh(t+2 / 5)=26.13764[%]

[0182] Sh(t+3 / 5)=26.65744[%]

[0183] Sh(t+4 / 5)=27.17724[%]

[0184] Sh(t+5 / 5)=Sh(t+1)=27.69704[%]

[0185] At this time, the light distribution value Sh(t+n / N) in the H direction at each time (t+n / N) is converted into the following light distribution grayscale value Dh(t+n / N) by the above formula (21). In addition, the light distribution grayscale value Dh(t+n / N) in the H direction is rounded off after the decimal point.

[0186] Dh(t+1 / 5)=65.325492≈65

[0187] Dh(t+2 / 5)=66.650982≈67

[0188] Dh(t+3 / 5)=67.976472≈68

[0189] Dh(t+4 / 5)=69.301962≈69

[0190] Dh(t+5 / 5)=Dh(t+1)=70.627452≈71

[0191] Fig.16 is a diagram showing a second calculation example of intermediate grayscale. Fig.16 In the example shown, the light distribution value in the V direction is set to Sv, and the light distribution grayscale value is set to Dv. Fig.16 In the example shown, the number N of divisions of the time from time t to time t+1 is set to 5 (N=5).

[0192] For example, when the first light distribution value Sv(t) in the V direction at time t is 74.90196[%], the light distribution grayscale value Dv(t) is 190.999998 (≈191), the light distribution target value in the V direction at time t+1, i.e., the second light distribution value Sv(t+1) is 72.30296[%], and the light distribution grayscale value Dh(t+1) is 184.372548 (≈184), the light distribution value Sv(t+n / N) in the V direction at each time (t+n / N) is calculated as follows by the above formula (20). In addition, it is not necessary to calculate the light distribution value Sv(t+5 / 5) (=Sv(t+1)) in the V direction when n=5, and the light distribution value Sv(t+1) calculated in step S218 can be used.

[0193] Sv(t+1 / 5)=74.38216[%]

[0194] Sv(t+2 / 5)=73.86236[%]

[0195] Sv(t+3 / 5)=73.34256[%]

[0196] Sv(t+4 / 5)=72.82276[%]

[0197] Sv(t+5 / 5)=Sv(t+1)=72.30296[%]

[0198] At this time, the light distribution value Sv(t+n / N) in the V direction at each time (t+n / N) is converted into the following light distribution grayscale value Dv(t+n / N) by the above formula (22). In addition, the light distribution grayscale value Dv(t+n / N) in the V direction is rounded off to the nearest decimal point.

[0199] Dv(t+1 / 5)=189.674508≈190

[0200] Dv(t+2 / 5)=188.349018≈188

[0201] Dv(t+3 / 5)=187.023528≈187

[0202] Dv(t+4 / 5)=185.698038≈186

[0203] Dv(t+5 / 5)=Dv(t+1)=184.372548≈184

[0204] return Fig.14 , if the count value n+1 becomes the division number N (step S235; yes), the processing circuit 114 updates the light distribution target value in the H direction at time t+1, i.e., the second light distribution value Sh(t+1), to the new first light distribution value Sh(t) in the H direction at time t, and updates the light distribution target value in the V direction at time t+1, i.e., the second light distribution value Sv(t+1), to the new first light distribution value Sv(t) in the V direction at time t (Sh(t)=Sh(t+1), Sv(t)=Sv(t+1), step S237), and stores them in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113, and returns Fig.12 By repeatedly executing the light distribution control process shown in Fig.14 The light distribution fluctuation control process shown controls the light distribution state according to the light distribution value Sh(t+n / N) in the H direction and the light distribution value Sv(t+n / N) in the V direction at each time (t+n / N).

[0205] exist Fig.14 In the light distribution fluctuation control process of the modified example of the embodiment 1 shown, by repeating the process of the above-mentioned steps S232 to S236 N times, the change of the light distribution state between the first light distribution value Sh(t) in the H direction at time t and the light distribution target value in the H direction at time t+1, that is, the second light distribution value Sh(t+1), can be smoothed. In addition, by repeating the process of the above-mentioned steps S232 to S236 N times, the change of the light distribution state between the first light distribution value Sv(t) in the V direction at time t and the light distribution target value in the V direction at time t+1, that is, the second light distribution value Sv(t+1), can be smoothed. Thus, the change of the fluctuation of the light distribution shape of the lighting device 1 can be smoothed.

[0206] As described above, the lighting device 1 according to the first embodiment is a structure capable of performing light distribution control in two directions, namely, the H direction and the V direction, and performs dynamic light distribution control based on 1 / f fluctuations in the H direction and the V direction, respectively. Thus, for example, natural and comfortable light can be presented compared to the case where dynamic control based on 1 / f fluctuations is applied in dimming control (brightness control).

[0207] In the light distribution fluctuation control process of the modified example of the first embodiment, light distribution control is performed stepwise at a light distribution control interval shorter than the execution interval of the light distribution fluctuation control process and at an intermediate grayscale between the light distribution grayscale value at time t and the light distribution grayscale value at time t+1. This makes it possible to smooth the change in light distribution state.

[0208] (Implementation Method 2)

[0209] Fig.17 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the structure of a lighting system. The lighting system includes a lighting device 1 (1_1, 1_2, ···, 1_N) and a control device 200. The control device 200 is exemplified by a portable communication terminal device such as a smartphone or a tablet computer. The lighting device 1 (1_1, 1_2, ···, 1_N) is pre-registered in the control device 200 as a control target device that can be controlled by the control device 200 for light distribution.

[0210] The lighting device 1 (1_1, 1_2, ..., 1_N) and the control device 200 transmit and receive data and various command signals via the communication unit 300. In the present disclosure, the communication unit 300 is, for example, a wireless communication unit such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) and WiFi (registered trademark). The lighting device 1 (1_1, 1_2, ..., 1_N) and the control device 200 may also be in a form of wireless communication via a specified network such as a mobile communication network. Alternatively, the lighting device 1 (1_1, 1_2, ..., 1_N) and the control device 200 may be in a form of wired communication via a wired connection.

[0211] In addition, Fig.17 , an example in which a plurality of lighting devices 1 (1_1, 1_2, ..., 1_N) are registered is shown, but in the present disclosure, at least one lighting device 1 may be registered as a control target device capable of performing light distribution control.

[0212] In the above-mentioned lighting system, the control device 200 is configured to be able to change the light distribution state in the H direction and the V direction of the lighting device 1. In addition, each setting item such as the validity or invalidity of the fluctuation control and the fluctuation range is set by the setting circuit 113_1 (for example, a DIP switch) provided in the lighting device 1. The control device 200 of the lighting system according to the second embodiment is described below.

[0213] Fig.18: is an appearance diagram showing an example of a control device. The control device 200 is a display device (touch screen) with a touch detection function in which a display panel 20 and a touch sensor 30 are integrated. As internal structural elements, the control device 200 is equipped with various ICs such as a detection IC and a display IC, a CPU (Central Processing Unit: Central Processing Unit) of a smartphone, a tablet computer, etc. constituting the control device 200, a RAM (Random Access Memory: Random Access Memory), an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory: Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory), a ROM (Read Only Memory: Read Only Memory), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit: Graphics Processing Unit), etc.

[0214] The display panel 20 is a so-called embedded or hybrid device that has a touch sensor 30 built in and integrated. The display panel 20 that has a touch sensor 30 built in and integrated means that, for example, a substrate, an electrode, or some other components used as the display panel 20 and a substrate, an electrode, or some other components used as the touch sensor 30 are included. In addition, the display panel 20 may be a so-called embedded device that has a touch sensor 30 mounted on a display device.

[0215] The display panel 20 may be, for example, a liquid crystal display panel using a liquid crystal display element, but the display panel 20 is not limited thereto and may be, for example, an organic EL display panel (OLED: Organic Light Emitting Diode) or an inorganic EL display panel (micro LED, mini LED).

[0216] An example of the touch sensor 30 is an electrostatic capacitance touch sensor, but the invention is not limited thereto, and the touch sensor 30 may be a resistive film touch sensor, an ultrasonic touch sensor, or an optical touch sensor.

[0217] Fig.19 3 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of a touch detection area in a touch sensor. A plurality of detection elements 31 are provided in the detection area FA of the touch sensor 30. The plurality of detection elements 31 are arranged in the detection area FA of the touch sensor 30 along the X direction and the Y direction orthogonal to the X direction, and are arranged in a matrix. In other words, the touch sensor 30 has a detection area FA that overlaps with the plurality of detection elements 31 arranged in the X direction and the Y direction.

[0218] Fig. 201 is a diagram for explaining an example of the display form of the setting change screen of the control device. The display panel 20 is provided with a display area DA which overlaps with the detection area FA of the touch sensor 30 when viewed from above. Fig. 20 The setting change screen shown is displayed in the display area DA. Fig. 20 The predetermined position on the setting change screen shown is the HV plane having the origin O(0, 0).

[0219] exist Fig. 20 In the example shown, a light distribution shape object OBJ is displayed with the origin O(0, 0) of the HV plane on the setting change screen as the center point, and a first slider S1 for changing the light distribution state in the H direction of the lighting device 1 and a second slider S2 for changing the light distribution state in the V direction of the lighting device 1 are arranged on the contour line of the light distribution shape object OBJ.

[0220] The light distribution shape object OBJ is an image corresponding to the light distribution state of light emitted from the lighting device 1 .

[0221] The first slider S1 and the second slider S2 are, for example, image images displayed on the display area DA, and the user can move them by touching them with a finger (drag operation).

[0222] By moving the first slider S1 in the H direction, the shape of the light distribution shape object OBJ can be changed. In addition, the light distribution state in the H direction of the lighting device 1 is controlled. In addition, by moving the second slider S2 in the V direction, the shape of the light distribution shape object OBJ can be changed. In addition, the light distribution state in the V direction of the lighting device 1 is controlled.

[0223] In the present disclosure, the shape of the light distribution shape object OBJ on the setting change screen becomes circular or elliptical according to the light distribution value Sh in the H direction and the light distribution value Sv in the V direction. In other words, the shape of the light distribution shape object OBJ changes to circular or elliptical as the first slider S1 and the second slider S2 are moved.

[0224] The first slider S1 can be moved in the H direction from a position on the contour line of the light distribution shape object OBJ when the light distribution value Sh in the H direction is 0[%] to a position on the contour line of the light distribution shape object OBJ when the light distribution value Sh in the H direction is 100[%].

[0225] The second slider S2 can be moved in the V direction from a position on the contour line of the light distribution shape object OBJ when the light distribution value Sv in the V direction is 0[%] to a position on the contour line of the light distribution shape object OBJ when the light distribution value Sv in the V direction is 100[%].

[0226] On the setting change screen of the control device 200 , the light distribution value Sh in the H direction of the lighting device 1 can be set by the amount of movement of the position h of the intersection of the H axis on the HV plane and the outline of the light distribution shape object OBJ.

[0227] In the present disclosure, the position h of the intersection of the H axis and the outline of the light distribution shape object OBJ is set as the center point of the first slider S1. In other words, the position h0 of the first slider S1 on the display area DA overlaps with the position h of the intersection of the H axis and the outline of the light distribution shape object OBJ. Thus, by touching the first slider S1 and moving it in the H direction, the light distribution value Sh in the H direction of the lighting device 1 can be changed. Fig. 20 “Sh” in ∝ represents the light distribution value in the H direction of the lighting device 1 (for example, “50” [%)).

[0228] Furthermore, on the setting change screen of the control device 200 , the light distribution value Sv in the V direction of the lighting device 1 can be set by the amount of movement of the position v of the intersection of the V axis of the HV plane and the outline of the light distribution shape object OBJ.

[0229] In the present disclosure, the position v of the intersection of the V axis and the outline of the light distribution shape object OBJ is set as the center point of the second slider S2. In other words, the position v0 of the second slider S2 on the display area DA overlaps with the position v of the intersection of the V axis and the outline of the light distribution shape object OBJ. Thus, by touching the second slider S2 and moving it in the V direction, the light distribution value Sv in the V direction of the lighting device 1 can be changed. Fig. 20 “Sv” in ∝ represents the light distribution value in the V direction of the lighting device 1 (for example, “50” [%)).

[0230] Fig.21 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a control block structure of a control device. Fig.21 In the following, a control block structure for changing the light distribution state in the H direction and the V direction of the lighting device 1 is described.

[0231] like Fig.21As shown, the control device 200 includes a display panel 20, a touch sensor 30, a detection circuit 211, a conversion processing circuit 212, a storage circuit 223, a transceiver circuit 225, and a display control circuit 231. The detection circuit 211 is composed of, for example, a detection IC. Alternatively, the detection circuit 211 and the display control circuit 231 may also be mounted on the display panel 20 as a display IC, or mounted on an FPC connected to the display panel 20. The conversion processing circuit 212 and the storage circuit 223 are composed of, for example, a CPU, a RAM, an EEPROM, a ROM, etc. of a smartphone, a tablet computer, etc. constituting the control device 200. In addition, the display control circuit 231 may also be a display IC mounted on the display panel 20 as described above, and further, for example, may also be a structure including a GPU, etc., of a smartphone, a tablet computer, etc. constituting the control device 200. The transceiver circuit 225 is composed of, for example, a wireless communication module of a smartphone, a tablet computer, etc. constituting the control device 200.

[0232] The detection circuit 211 is a circuit that detects the presence or absence of a touch on the touch sensor 30 based on the detection signal output from each detection element 31 of the touch sensor 30 .

[0233] The conversion processing circuit 212 is a circuit that performs conversion processing between the touch detection position in the detection circuit 211 and various set values ​​(light distribution values ​​in the present disclosure) of the lighting device 1. In addition, in the present disclosure, the conversion processing circuit 212 has a function of performing conversion processing between the touch detection position in the detection circuit 211, and then the position of the touched object (image), and the operation status on various screens. The conversion processing circuit 212 is, for example, a component realized by a CPU of a smartphone, tablet computer, etc. constituting the control device 200.

[0234] The storage circuit 223 is constituted by, for example, a RAM, an EEPROM, a ROM, etc. of a smartphone, a tablet computer, etc. constituting the control device 200. In the present disclosure, the storage circuit 223 stores various setting values ​​(light distribution values ​​in the present disclosure) of the lighting device 1.

[0235] The transceiver circuit 225 transmits and receives various set values ​​(light distribution values ​​in the present disclosure) with the lighting device 1. Specifically, the transceiver circuit 225 transmits the light distribution value Sh in the H direction and the light distribution value Sv in the V direction set by the control device 200 as light distribution set values ​​S1h and S1v, respectively, to the lighting device 1. In addition, the transceiver circuit 225 receives the light distribution set values ​​S0h and S0v transmitted from the lighting device 1.

[0236] The display control circuit 231 performs display control processing for displaying the setting change screen on the display panel 20. The display control circuit 231 performs display control on the display panel 20 based on various setting values ​​(light distribution values ​​in this disclosure) stored in the storage circuit 223 and image position information.

[0237] Hereinafter, the lighting device in the above-mentioned lighting system will be described. Fig. 22 This is a diagram showing an example of a control block configuration of the lighting device according to Embodiment 2. Here, the same components as those of the control block configuration of the lighting device 1 according to Embodiment 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals and duplicate descriptions are omitted.

[0238] like Fig. 22 As shown, the lighting device 1 a according to the second embodiment includes a transceiver circuit 111 in addition to the configuration of the lighting device 1 according to the first embodiment described above.

[0239] The transceiver circuit 111 transmits and receives various setting values ​​(light distribution setting values ​​in the present disclosure) with the control device 200. Specifically, the transceiver circuit 111 receives the light distribution setting values ​​S1h and S1v transmitted from the control device 200. In addition, the transceiver circuit 111 transmits the light distribution setting values ​​S0h and S0v stored in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113 to the control device 200.

[0240] In the present disclosure, when the lighting device 1 is started, the transceiver circuit 111 transmits the light distribution setting values ​​S0h and S0v stored in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113 to the control device 200, and stores the light distribution setting values ​​S1h and S1v sent from the control device 200 as new light distribution setting values ​​S0h and S0v in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113. That is, by sending the light distribution setting values ​​S1h and S1v from the control device 200 to the lighting device 1a, the light distribution setting values ​​S0h and S0v in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113 are updated to the light distribution setting values ​​S1h and S1v. In addition, the light distribution setting values ​​S0h and S0v are not stored in the lighting device 1 for the first time (the light distribution setting values ​​S0h and S0v are both 0[%]). In this case, the light distribution setting values ​​S0h and S0v in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113 are stored by sending the light distribution setting values ​​S1h and S1v from the control device 200. In addition, the configuration is not limited to the above, and a configuration may be adopted in which the initial light distribution setting values ​​S0h and S0v are stored in advance as predetermined values ​​such as 50[%], for example.

[0241] In the above-described lighting system, the processing circuit 114 executes the light distribution control process described below. Fig.231 is a flowchart showing an example of light distribution control processing in the lighting system according to Embodiment 2. Note that, here, points different from Embodiment 1 are described in detail, and duplicate descriptions are omitted.

[0242] When the lighting device 1a is activated, the processing circuit 114 causes the lighting device 1a to read out the light distribution setting value S0h in the H direction and the light distribution setting value S0v in the V direction stored in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113 and transmit them to the control device 200 (step S301).

[0243] The transceiver circuit 225 of the control device 200 stores the light distribution setting values ​​S0h and S0v sent from the lighting device 1a in the storage circuit 223. When the setting change process is executed in the control device 200, the display control circuit 231 of the control device 200 reads the light distribution setting values ​​S0h and S0v stored in the storage circuit 223, and performs display control of the display panel 20 in such a manner that the shape of the light distribution shape object OBJ, the position of the first slider S1, the light distribution display in the Dx direction, the position of the second slider S2, and the light distribution display in the Dy direction corresponding to the light distribution setting values ​​S0h and S0v are reflected in the setting change screen. As a result, the control device 200 shifts to a standby state for the change operation.

[0244] The processing circuit 114 of the lighting device 1 a reads the state value from the setting circuit 113_1 of the storage circuit 113 (step S302 ), and determines whether the fluctuation control is effective based on the state value (step S303 ).

[0245] When the fluctuation control is invalid (step S303; no), the processing circuit 114 reads out the light distribution setting value S0h in the H direction and the light distribution setting value S0v in the V direction stored in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113 (step S304), converts the light distribution setting value S0h and the light distribution setting value S0v represented by percentages from 0[%] to 100[%] into light distribution grayscale values ​​Dh and Dv of the optical element 100, respectively (step S305), and outputs them to the electrode driving circuit 112.

[0246] The electrode driving circuit 112 supplies driving voltages corresponding to the light distribution grayscale values ​​Dh and Dv outputted from the processing circuit 114 to the driving electrodes 10 and 13 of the liquid crystal cells 2 of the optical element 100. Thus, the light distribution state is controlled to correspond to the light distribution setting value S0h in the H direction and the light distribution setting value S0v in the V direction.

[0247] Next, the processing circuit 114 determines whether the light distribution setting value S0h in the H direction and the light distribution setting value S0v in the V direction stored in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113 are changed (step S306 ).

[0248] The change of the light distribution setting value S0h in the H direction and the light distribution setting value S0v in the V direction is executed by interrupt processing. Fig.24 This is a flowchart showing an example of the light distribution setting value change interruption process.

[0249] On the setting change screen of the control device 200 (see Fig. 20 ), if the first slider S1 or the second slider S2 is operated, the light distribution setting value S1h in the H direction and the light distribution setting value S1v in the V direction are sent from the control device 200.

[0250] The transceiver circuit 111 of the lighting device 1a determines whether the light distribution setting values ​​S1h and S1v sent from the control device 200 are received (step S401). If the light distribution setting values ​​S1h and S1v are not received (step S401; no), the process of step S401 is repeatedly performed. If the light distribution setting values ​​S1h and S1v are received (step S401; yes), the light distribution setting value S1h sent from the control device 200 is used as the new light distribution setting value S0h in the H direction, and the light distribution setting value S1v sent from the control device 200 is used as the new light distribution setting value S0v in the V direction, and the light distribution setting value S1v sent from the control device 200 is used as the new light distribution setting value S0v in the V direction, and the light distribution setting value is stored in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113 (S0h=S1h, S0v=S1v, step S402), and then the process returns to step S401.

[0251] return Fig.23 When the light distribution setting value S0h in the H direction and the light distribution setting value S0v in the V direction stored in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113 are not changed (S306; Yes), the processing circuit 114 determines whether the power of the lighting device 1a is disconnected (step S307). If the power of the lighting device 1a is not disconnected (step S307; No), the processing from step S306 to step S307 is repeatedly performed.

[0252] When the light distribution setting value S0h in the H direction and the light distribution setting value S0v in the V direction stored in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113 are changed (S306; No), the processing from step S304 to step S306 is repeatedly performed. Thus, the light distribution state corresponding to the changed light distribution setting value S0h in the H direction and the light distribution setting value S0v in the V direction is controlled.

[0253] If the power of the lighting device 1 a is controlled to be off (step S307 ; Yes), the light distribution control process is terminated.

[0254] When the fluctuation control is effective (step S303; Yes), the processing circuit 114 reads the light distribution setting value S0h in the H direction and the light distribution setting value S0v in the V direction stored in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113 (step 308), and sets the fluctuation range of the light distribution value in the light distribution fluctuation control process.

[0255] After setting the fluctuation range of the light distribution value Sh in steps S011 to S013 and steps S021 to S023 relative to the light distribution setting value S0h in the H direction, and the fluctuation range of the light distribution value Sv in steps S031 to S033 and steps S041 to S043 relative to the light distribution setting value S0v in the V direction, the processing circuit 114 uses the light distribution setting value S0h in the H direction as the first light distribution value Sh(t) at time t, and uses the light distribution setting value S0v in the V direction as the first light distribution value Sv(t) at time t, and stores them in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113 (Sh(t)=S0h, Sv(t)=S0v, step S309). In addition, after outputting the light distribution grayscale values ​​Dh(t) and Dv(t) corresponding to the initial setting values ​​(the light distribution setting value S0h in the H direction (=Sh(t)) and the light distribution setting value S0v in the V direction (=Sv(t))) stored in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113 to the electrode driving circuit 112 (step S310), the processing circuit 114 executes Fig.13 or Fig.14 The light distribution fluctuation control process (step S200) is shown.

[0256] Next, the processing circuit 114 determines whether the light distribution setting value S0h in the H direction and the light distribution setting value S0v in the V direction stored in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113 are changed (step S311).

[0257] When the light distribution setting value S0h in the H direction and the light distribution setting value S0v in the V direction stored in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113 are not changed (step S311; yes), the processing circuit 114 determines whether the power of the lighting device 1a is disconnected (step S312). If the power of the lighting device 1a is not disconnected (step S312; no), the processing circuit 114 returns to step S200 and repeats the process. Fig.13 or Fig.14 The light distribution fluctuation control process shown.

[0258] If the light distribution setting value S0h in the H direction and the light distribution setting value S0v in the V direction stored in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113 are changed (step S311; No), the processing after step S308 is repeatedly executed. Fig.13 or Fig.14 The light distribution fluctuation control shown dynamically controls the light distribution state of the optical element 100 .

[0259] If the power of the lighting device 1 a is controlled to be off (step S312 ; Yes), the light distribution control process is terminated.

[0260] The lighting device 1a of the lighting system according to the second embodiment is Fig.24 The interrupt processing shown stores the light distribution setting values ​​S1h and S1v sent from the control device 200 as new light distribution setting values ​​S0h and S0v in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit 113 (step S402), and then executes the processing of steps S304 to S307 or the processing of steps S308 to S312. In other words, in the lighting system involved in embodiment 2, when the light distribution setting values ​​S0h and S0v of the lighting device 1a can be changed by the control device 200 and the fluctuation control is invalid (step S303; No), if the light distribution setting values ​​S0h and S0v of the lighting device 1a are changed (step S306; No), normal light distribution control is performed based on the changed light distribution setting values ​​S0h and S0v, and when the fluctuation control is valid (step S303; Yes), if the light distribution setting values ​​S0h and S0v of the lighting device 1a are changed (step S311; No), dynamic light distribution control based on 1 / f fluctuation is performed based on the changed light distribution setting values ​​S0h and S0v.

[0261] In addition, similarly to the first embodiment, by repeatedly executing Fig.13 The light distribution fluctuation control process shown can dynamically control the light distribution state of the optical element 100. As a result, the light distribution shape of the lighting device 1 changes in a fluctuation manner, and comfortable light can be presented.

[0262] In addition, similarly to the modification of the first embodiment, by Fig.14 The processing of steps S232 to S236 of the light distribution fluctuation control process shown is repeated N times, and at each time (t+n / N) from time t to time t+1, light distribution control is performed with an intermediate grayscale between the light distribution grayscale value Dh(t) in the H direction at time t and the light distribution grayscale value Dh(t+1) in the H direction at time t+1. In addition, at each time (t+n / N) from time t to time t+1, light distribution control is performed with an intermediate grayscale between the light distribution grayscale value Dv(t) in the V direction at time t and the light distribution grayscale value Dv(t+1) in the V direction at time t+1.

[0263] Thus, the change in the light distribution state between the first light distribution value Sh(t) in the H direction at time t and the second light distribution value Sh(t+1) which is the light distribution target value in the H direction at time t+1 can be made smooth. In addition, the change in the light distribution state between the first light distribution value Sv(t) in the V direction at time t and the second light distribution value Sv(t+1) which is the light distribution target value in the V direction at time t+1 can be made smooth.

[0264] In addition, in the above-mentioned embodiment, an example is given of a form in which the light distribution states in the H direction (first direction) and the V direction (second direction) are independently and dynamically controlled. However, it is not limited to a form in which the light distribution states in the H direction (first direction) and the V direction (second direction) are independently and dynamically controlled. It may also be a form in which the light distribution states in at least one of the H direction (first direction) and the V direction (second direction) are dynamically controlled.

[0265] The preferred embodiments of the present disclosure are described above, but the present disclosure is not limited to such embodiments. The contents disclosed in the embodiments are only examples, and various changes can be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Appropriate changes made within the scope of the present disclosure also belong to the technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0266] [Explanation of Reference Numerals]

[0267] 1. 1a, lighting device; 2. liquid crystal unit; 2_1, first liquid crystal unit; 2_2, second liquid crystal unit; 2_3, third liquid crystal unit; 2_4, fourth liquid crystal unit; 4. light source; 5. first substrate; 6. second substrate; 7. sealing material; 8. liquid crystal layer; 9. substrate; 10. 10a, 10b, driving electrode; 11. first metal wiring; 11a, 11b, 11c, 11d, metal wiring; 12. substrate; 13. 13a, 13b, driving electrode; 14. second metal wiring; 14a, 14b, metal wiring; 15a, 15b, conducting portion; 16a, 16b, connecting terminal portion; 17. liquid crystal molecules; 18. alignment film; 19. alignment film; 20. display panel; 30. touch sensor; 31. detection element; 100. optical element; 111. transceiver circuit; 112. electrode drive circuit; 113. storage circuit; 113 _1, setting circuit (DIP switch); 200, control device; 211, detection circuit; 212, conversion processing circuit; 223, storage circuit; 225, transceiver circuit; 231, display control circuit; 300, communication unit; AA, effective area; DA, display area; FA, detection area; GA, peripheral area; OBJ, light distribution shape object; S1, first slider; S2, second slider; Sh, light distribution value (H direction); Sh(t), first light distribution value (H direction); Sh(t+1), second light distribution value (H direction); Sv, light distribution value (V direction); Sv(t), first light distribution value (V direction); Sv(t+1), second light distribution value (V direction); Xh(t), first variable (H direction); Xh(t+1), second variable (H direction); Xv(t), first variable (V direction); Xv(t+1), second variable (V direction).

Claims

1. A lighting device comprising: light source; an optical element disposed on the optical axis of the light source and controlling a light distribution state of light emitted from the light source in two directions, a first direction and a second direction different from the first direction; and a processing circuit, at least executing light distribution control processing of the optical element, The processing circuit dynamically controls the light distribution state in at least one of the first direction and the second direction according to 1 / f fluctuation based on a light distribution setting value, which is a setting value for executing the light distribution control process.

2. The lighting device according to claim 1, wherein: The processing circuit controls light distribution states in the first direction and the second direction independently and dynamically.

3. The lighting device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The processing circuit uses an intermittent chaos method to perform dynamic light distribution control based on 1 / f fluctuations.

4. The lighting device according to claim 3, wherein: The lighting device includes a storage circuit set with a fluctuation range defining a variation range of a light distribution value when the dynamic light distribution control is executed. The processing circuit sets a fluctuation range defined as a variation range of the light distribution value in the control when executing the dynamic light distribution control, The processing circuit adds the fluctuation width to the light distribution setting value to obtain an upper limit value of the fluctuation range, and subtracts the fluctuation width from the light distribution setting value to obtain a lower limit value of the fluctuation range.

5. The lighting device according to claim 4, wherein: When executing the dynamic light distribution control, the processing circuit calculates a first variable at time t based on the light distribution value used to achieve the light distribution state of the optical element at time t, i.e., the first light distribution value, and the upper and lower limits of the fluctuation range, and calculates a second variable at time t+1 which is later than time t based on the first variable, and calculates a light distribution target value, i.e., the second light distribution value, for achieving the light distribution state of the optical element at time t+1 based on the second variable and the upper and lower limits of the fluctuation range.

6. The lighting device according to claim 5, wherein: When the second variable is outside a predetermined range, the processing circuit calculates the second light distribution value using a random value within the predetermined range as the second variable.

7. The lighting device according to claim 6, wherein: When executing the dynamic light distribution control, the processing circuit changes the light distribution state of the optical element stepwise during the period from the time t to the time t+1 at an intermediate grayscale between the first light distribution value at the time t and the second light distribution value at the time t+1.

8. A lighting system comprising: A lighting device comprising a light source, an optical element, and a processing circuit, wherein the optical element is disposed on an optical axis of the light source and controls a light distribution state of light emitted from the light source in two directions, a first direction and a second direction different from the first direction, and the processing circuit at least performs a light distribution control process of the optical element; and a control device capable of changing at least the light distribution state of the lighting device in the first direction and the second direction; The processing circuit dynamically controls the light distribution state in at least one of the first direction and the second direction according to 1 / f fluctuation based on a light distribution setting value, which is a setting value for executing the light distribution control process.

9. The lighting system according to claim 8, wherein: The processing circuit controls light distribution states in the first direction and the second direction independently and dynamically.

10. The lighting system according to claim 8 or 9, wherein: The processing circuit uses an intermittent chaos method to perform dynamic light distribution control based on 1 / f fluctuations.

11. The lighting system according to claim 10, wherein: The lighting device includes a storage circuit set with a fluctuation range defining a variation range of a light distribution value when the dynamic light distribution control is executed. The processing circuit sets a fluctuation range defined as a variation range of the light distribution value in the control when executing the dynamic light distribution control, The processing circuit adds the fluctuation width to the light distribution setting value to obtain an upper limit value of the fluctuation range, and subtracts the fluctuation width from the light distribution setting value to obtain a lower limit value of the fluctuation range.

12. The lighting system according to claim 11, wherein: When executing the dynamic light distribution control, the processing circuit calculates a first variable at time t based on the light distribution value used to achieve the light distribution state of the optical element at time t, i.e., the first light distribution value, and the upper and lower limits of the fluctuation range, and calculates a second variable at time t+1 which is later than time t based on the first variable, and calculates a light distribution target value, i.e., the second light distribution value, for achieving the light distribution state of the optical element at time t+1 based on the second variable and the upper and lower limits of the fluctuation range.

13. The lighting system according to claim 12, wherein: When the second variable is outside a predetermined range, the processing circuit calculates the second light distribution value using a random value within the predetermined range as the second variable.

14. The lighting system according to claim 13, wherein: When executing the dynamic light distribution control, the processing circuit changes the light distribution state of the optical element stepwise during the period from the time t to the time t+1 at an intermediate grayscale between the first light distribution value at the time t and the second light distribution value at the time t+1.

15. The lighting system according to claim 11, wherein: The control device sends the light distribution setting value to the lighting device, The lighting device stores the light distribution setting value sent from the control device in the storage area of ​​the storage circuit.

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