Lighting device

Abstract

Provided is an illumination device capable of more appropriately controlling changes in the light distribution shape of light. The lighting device includes: a light source unit that emits light; a light distribution shape setting unit for setting a light distribution shape of light from the light source unit; a storage unit that stores light distribution shape data relating to the light distribution shape; and a control unit that controls the light distribution shape setting unit on the basis of the light distribution shape data, the light distribution shape setting unit setting the light distribution shape in accordance with a signal level input from the control unit, the control unit changes the signal level from a first level to a third level when changing the signal level inputted to the light distribution shape setting unit from the first level to a second level, changes the signal level from the third level to the second level after maintaining the third level for a predetermined time, and changes the signal level from the third level to the second level after maintaining the third level for a predetermined time. The third level is a level between the first level and the second level.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] Conventionally, there are lighting fixtures that combine a thin lens engraved with a prism pattern with a light source such as an LED (Light Emitting Diode), and change the light distribution angle 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).

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent Literature

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

[0006] Technical problem to be solved by the invention

[0007] It is believed that the use of a liquid crystal dimming element can change the light distribution shape instantaneously. However, on the other hand, if only the instantaneous change is controlled, the expression effect is poor and the application is limited.

[0008] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide a lighting device capable of making changes in the light distribution shape more diverse.

[0009] Technical solutions for solving technical problems

[0010] An illumination device according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes: a light source unit that emits light; a light distribution shape setting unit that is used to set a light distribution shape of light from the light source unit; a storage unit that stores light distribution shape data related to the light distribution shape; and a control unit that controls the light distribution shape setting unit based on the light distribution shape data, the light distribution shape setting unit setting the light distribution shape according to a signal level input from the control unit, the control unit changing the signal level from the first level to a third level when changing the signal level input to the light distribution shape setting unit from a first level to a second level, and changing from the third level to the second level after maintaining the third level for a predetermined time, the third level being a level between the first level and the second level. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] Figure 1 It is a diagram showing an example of a light distribution shape formed by the lighting device according to the first embodiment.

[0012] Figure 2 It is a diagram showing a comparative example of changes in the light distribution shape of light formed by the lighting device.

[0013] Figure 3 It is a diagram showing an example of a change in the light distribution shape formed by the lighting device according to the first embodiment.

[0014] Figure 4 1 is a diagram showing an example of a change in the voltage value applied to the liquid crystal cell over time.

[0015] Figure 5 : is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the lighting device according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] Figure 6 This is a timing chart for explaining transmission and reception of signals in each unit of the lighting device according to the first embodiment.

[0017] Figure 7 This is a flowchart showing the operation of the lighting device according to the first embodiment.

[0018] Figure 8 This is a flowchart showing the operation of the lighting device according to the first embodiment.

[0019] Fig. 9 It is a diagram showing an example of a screen for performing settings of the lighting device according to the first embodiment.

[0020] Fig.10 This is a flowchart that explains the operation when data for controlling a lighting device is saved via a terminal such as a smartphone.

[0021] Fig.11 It is a diagram for explaining the process of changing the vertical and horizontal directions of the light distribution shape by the task control unit.

[0022] Fig.12 : is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of a lighting device according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] Fig.13 This is a flowchart showing the operation of the lighting device according to the second embodiment.

[0024] Fig.14 This is a flowchart showing the operation of the lighting device according to the second embodiment.

[0025] Fig.15 It is a diagram showing an example of a screen for performing settings of the lighting device according to the second embodiment.

[0026] Fig.16 This is a flowchart that explains the actions when setting a lighting device through a terminal such as a smartphone.

[0027] Fig.17 1 is a diagram showing an example of a change in the shape of the light distribution shape with the passage of time.

[0028] Fig.18 It is a perspective view showing an example of the optical element portion according to the embodiment.

[0029] Fig.19 This is a schematic top view of the first substrate as viewed from the Dz direction.

[0030] Fig. 20 This is a schematic top view of the second substrate as viewed from the Dz direction.

[0031] Fig.21 It is a perspective view of a liquid crystal cell obtained by overlapping a first substrate and a second substrate in the Dz direction.

[0032] Fig. 22 yes Fig.21 The AA' line cross-sectional view is shown.

[0033] Fig.23 It is a diagram showing the alignment direction of the alignment film of the first substrate.

[0034] Fig.24 It is a diagram showing the alignment direction of the alignment film of the second substrate.

[0035] Fig.25 It is a diagram of a stacked structure of an optical element according to an embodiment.

[0036] Fig.26 This is a conceptual diagram for explaining the change in shape of light generated by the optical element involved in the embodiment.

[0037] Fig. 27 This is a conceptual diagram for explaining the change in shape of light generated by the optical element involved in the embodiment.

[0038] Fig.28 This is a conceptual diagram for explaining the change in shape of light generated by the optical element involved in the embodiment.

[0039] Fig.29 This is a conceptual diagram for explaining the change in shape of light generated by the optical element involved in the embodiment.

[0040] Fig.30 This is a conceptual diagram for conceptually explaining light distribution control of the lighting device according to the embodiment.

[0041] Fig.31 Schematic diagram showing an example of light distribution control in which light distribution control is performed using light distribution control areas. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0042] The mode (implementation method) for implementing the present invention is described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The present invention is not limited to the contents described in the following implementation methods. 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. It should be pointed out that 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 also included in the scope of the present invention. In addition, in order to make the description clearer, the width, thickness, shape, etc. of each part in the accompanying drawings are sometimes schematically represented compared to the actual aspects. In the final analysis, it is just an example and does not limit the interpretation of the present invention. In addition, in this specification and the accompanying drawings, the same figure marks are marked for the same elements as those described in the accompanying drawings that have appeared, and the detailed description is sometimes appropriately omitted.

[0043] (First Embodiment)

[0044] Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a light distribution shape formed by the lighting device of the first embodiment. Figure 1 In the embodiment, the lighting device 100 is, for example, disposed on the ceiling of a room. The lighting device 100 emits light toward the floor of the room, for example. As described later, the lighting device 100 has four liquid crystal units. The operation of the four liquid crystal units of the lighting device 100 can realize a light distribution shape Ra. The light distribution shapes Ra and Rb are circular. The circle of the light distribution shape Ra and the circle of the light distribution shape Rb share a center point P. The circle of the light distribution shape Ra is larger than the circle of the light distribution shape Rb. The light distribution shapes Ra and Rb can be realized by irradiating light from the lighting device 100 toward approximately directly below.

[0045] In addition, by the action of the four liquid crystal units of the lighting device 100, a light distribution shape Rc and a light distribution shape Rd can be realized. The light distribution shapes Rc and Rd are elliptical shapes. The ellipse of the light distribution shape Rc and the ellipse of the light distribution shape Rd share a center point P. The long side direction of the light distribution shape Rc and the long side direction of the light distribution shape Rd are in a mutually orthogonal relationship. In this way, in the present embodiment, by controlling the action of the optical element part, it is needless to say that the light distribution shape from the irradiation device can be increased in a concentric circle shape relative to the initial light distribution shape, and it can also be an ellipse that is long in the Dx direction and an ellipse that is long in the Dy direction. The Dx direction and the Dy direction are orthogonal to each other. The Dz direction orthogonal to the Dx direction and the Dy direction is the direction from the lighting device 100 toward the center point P in this connection. It should be noted that, below, the control of the light distribution shape in the Dx direction can be set to control the lateral diffusion. In addition, the control of the light distribution shape in the Dy direction can be set to control the longitudinal diffusion. In addition, the magnitude of the lateral diffusion can be expressed as a lateral diffusion degree by a numerical value. In the present embodiment, the lateral diffusion degree is set to a range of 0 to 255. That is, when the lateral diffusion degree is 0, there is no lateral diffusion, and the light irradiated from the light source is not diffused by the optical element part, etc. but is directly irradiated. On the other hand, when the lateral diffusion degree is 255, the light irradiated from the light source is diffused to the maximum extent by the optical element part. The same is true for the longitudinal diffusion. In the present embodiment, the longitudinal diffusion degree is expressed as a numerical value in the range of 0 to 255.

[0046] (Comparative example of changes in light distribution shape)

[0047] Here, in order to understand the present disclosure, a comparative example of a change in the light distribution shape will be described.

[0048] Figure 2 It is a diagram showing a comparative example of changes in the light distribution shape of light formed by the lighting device. Figure 2 FIG. 2 shows an example in which the light distribution shape R1 of the light emitted from the lighting device is changed to the light distribution shape Rn. Figure 2 In FIG. 1 , regarding the light distribution shape, the lateral diffusion (hereinafter referred to as lateral diffusion) is denoted as H, and the longitudinal diffusion (hereinafter referred to as longitudinal diffusion) is denoted as V. Figure 2 The shaded portion in the figure is the light distribution shape. The horizontal direction and the vertical direction are orthogonal to each other. The same is true in the following description.

[0049] Figure 2The light distribution shape R1 shown is a shape that is long in the vertical direction, i.e., a longitudinal shape. Therefore, regarding the diffusion of the light distribution shape R1, for example, the lateral diffusion H is "0" and the longitudinal diffusion V is "170". On the other hand, the light distribution shape Rn is a shape that is long in the horizontal direction, i.e., a horizontally long shape. Therefore, regarding the diffusion of the light distribution shape Rn, for example, the lateral diffusion H is "170" and the longitudinal diffusion V is "0". Therefore, the long side direction of the light distribution shape R1 and the long side direction of the light distribution shape Rn are in a mutually orthogonal relationship.

[0050] Here, if Figure 2 As shown by the arrow Y11, consider the case where the light distribution shape R1 with a vertically long shape changes to the light distribution shape Rn with a horizontally long shape. After 8 [ms] from the moment of the light distribution shape R1, it changes to the light distribution shape Rn. In this way, it looks like the light distribution shape has changed instantaneously to the human eye. In the lighting device of the comparative example, although the light distribution shape changes instantaneously like this, as the purpose of the lighting device, not only such instantaneous light distribution shape change is desired, but sometimes it is desired to improve the performance effect by gradually or slowly changing from a certain light distribution shape to another light distribution shape.

[0051] (Changes in Light Distribution Shape According to Embodiments)

[0052] Figure 3 It is a diagram showing an example of a change in the light distribution shape formed by the lighting device according to the first embodiment. Figure 3 The shaded area in is the light distribution shape. Figure 3 In, with Figure 2 Similarly, for the light distribution shape R1, the lateral diffusion H is "0", and the longitudinal diffusion V is "170". For the light distribution shape Rn, the lateral diffusion H is "170", and the longitudinal diffusion V is "0". Unlike the comparative example, in this example, light distribution shapes R2, R3, R4... are inserted in the middle of the change from the light distribution shape R1 to the light distribution shape Rn. For example, for the light distribution shape R2 inserted in the middle of the change, the lateral diffusion H is set to "25", and the longitudinal diffusion V is set to "145". Similarly, for the light distribution shape R3, the lateral diffusion H is set to "50", and the longitudinal diffusion V is set to "130". Similarly, for the light distribution shape R4, the lateral diffusion H is set to "75", and the longitudinal diffusion V is set to "95".

[0053] In this example, Figure 3 After the light distribution shape R1 is changed to the light distribution shape R2 as shown by the arrow Y12, the light distribution shape R2 is changed to the light distribution shape R3 as shown by the arrow Y23. After that, after the light distribution shape R3 is changed to the light distribution shape R4 as shown by the arrow Y34, the same thing happens thereafter, and the light distribution shape R4 is changed to another light distribution shape as shown by the arrow Y45.

[0054] Here, the time from the light distribution shape R1 to the time when it changes to the light distribution shape R2 is X [ms], the time from the light distribution shape R2 to the time when it changes to the light distribution shape R3 is X [ms], the time from the light distribution shape R3 to the time when it changes to the light distribution shape R4 is X [ms], and the same applies to the time until the time when it changes to other light distribution shapes. That is, the light distribution shape changes to other light distribution shapes every a certain time interval X [ms].

[0055] That is, the time interval for changing the shape of the light distribution shape (hereinafter referred to as the shape change interval) is X [ms]. The shape change interval is, for example, 100 [ms]. When the light distribution shape R1 is changed to the light distribution shape Rn, the time Xtotal [ms] for changing from the light distribution shape R1 to the light distribution shape Rn is an integer multiple of X [ms]. When the light distribution shape is changed 6 times from the light distribution shape R1 to the light distribution shape Rn, Xtotal [ms] is 6 times X [ms].

[0056] In order to change the light distribution shape, as described later, the signal level applied to the liquid crystal cell of the optical element section is changed, specifically, the voltage value is changed. Figure 4 is a diagram showing an example of a change in the voltage value applied to the liquid crystal cell over time. Figure 4 In the figure, the horizontal axis is time and the vertical axis is voltage value [V]. Figure 4 The dashed line H40 shown indicates the reference Figure 2 An example of voltage change in the case of a comparative example is described below. Figure 4 As shown, according to the dotted line H40, at time T1, the voltage value rises from 0 [V] to 30 [V]. After that, the voltage value does not rise but remains at 30 [V]. In the case of this comparative example, it appears to the human eye that the light distribution shape has changed instantaneously.

[0057] on the other hand, Figure 4 The solid line H41 shown in FIG. 4 shows an example of a change in the voltage value in the case of the lighting device 1 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 4As shown, according to the solid line H41, the voltage value changes as follows. That is, at time T1, the voltage value rises from 0 [V] to 5 [V], and then the voltage value does not rise from time T1 to time T2 but remains at 5 [V]. Next, at time T2, the voltage value rises from 5 [V] to 10 [V], and then the voltage value does not rise from time T2 to time T3 but remains at 10 [V]. At this time, when the voltage value is changed from the first level (0 [V]) to the second level (10 [V]), it changes from the first level to the third level (5 [V]) which is a level between the first level and the second level, and after the third level is maintained for a predetermined time (from time T1 to time T2), it changes from the third level to the second level.

[0058] The same is true for the following. When changing from the first level to the second level, the voltage is changed from the first level to the third level which is a level between the first level and the second level. After the third level is maintained for a predetermined time, the voltage is changed from the third level to the second level. At time T3, the voltage value is increased from 10 [V] to 15 [V]. After that, the voltage value does not increase but is maintained at 15 [V] during the period from time T3 to time T4. At time T4, the voltage value is increased from 15 [V] to 20 [V]. After that, the voltage value does not increase but is maintained at 20 [V] during the period from time T4 to time T5. At time T5, the voltage value is increased from 20 [V] to 25 [V]. After that, the voltage value does not increase but is maintained at 25 [V] during the period from time T5 to time T6. At time T6, the voltage value is increased from 25 [V] to 30 [V]. After that, the voltage value does not increase but is maintained at 30 [V]. The voltage value in the case of the lighting device 1 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure rises six times in a step-like manner as shown by the solid line H41. In this way, when changing from the first level to the second level, the first level changes to the third level which is a level between the first level and the second level, and after the third level is maintained for a predetermined time, it changes from the third level to the second level. Therefore, the light distribution shape can be gradually changed, and it looks like the light distribution shape is gradually changing to the human eye. Therefore, it can be felt that the light distribution shape changes naturally.

[0059] Here, in the lighting device of the present disclosure, Figure 4 As shown, the signal level, i.e., the voltage value, of the liquid crystal unit of the input optical element section is changed multiple times to change the shape multiple times. The amount of one shape change is a fixed value in the first embodiment described later. That is, in the first embodiment described later, the shape change of the same amount is performed multiple times. On the other hand, in the second embodiment described later, the amount of one shape change can be changed.

[0060] It should be pointed out that Figure 4The case where the signal level, i.e., the voltage value, is increased has been described. Figure 4 Different, the voltage value decreases in steps.

[0061] (Lighting Device According to First Embodiment)

[0062] Figure 5 1 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the lighting device 100 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 5 In the embodiment, the lighting device 100 according to the first embodiment includes a light source unit 80, an optical element unit 700, and a control unit 60. The light source unit 80 includes a light source 800. The light source 800 is, for example, an LED. The light source unit 80 emits light in the direction of arrow Yz. The optical element unit 700 includes a plurality of liquid crystal cells 1-1 to 1-4.

[0063] The lighting device 100 can control the light distribution shape of the light from the light source 800 of the light source unit 80 using the optical element unit 700. The optical element unit 700 functions as a light distribution shape setting unit for setting the light distribution shape of the light from the light source 800. The optical element unit 700 includes a liquid crystal cell for p-wave polarization and a liquid crystal cell for s-wave polarization. The detailed structure of the liquid crystal cell included in the optical element unit 700 will be described later.

[0064] The control unit 60 includes an MCU (Micro Controller Unit) 62, a D (Digital) / A (Analog) converter 64, and a light source driver 65. The MCU 62 includes a storage unit 61, a timer control unit 621, a task control unit 622, and a communication unit 623.

[0065] The MCU 62 can read various data from the storage unit 61. The storage unit 61 stores various data. The storage content of the storage unit 61 will be described later. The MCU 62 outputs various signals to the D / A converter 64 and the light source driver 65. The MCU 62 controls each unit of the lighting device 100.

[0066] The timer control unit 621 manages the moments and times related to the operation of the lighting device 100. The task control unit 622 performs calculations related to the light distribution shape formed by the lighting device 100, calculations of light distribution and dimming values, etc. The communication unit 623 sends and receives signals to and from each unit in the lighting device 100. In addition, the communication unit 623 receives an update signal S1 sent from a terminal 200 such as a smartphone. As described later, when the setting content is updated by the operation of the terminal 200, which is a device outside the lighting device 100, the update signal S1 is sent from the terminal 200, and the communication unit 623 receives the update signal S1. The content of the update signal S1 received by the communication unit 623 is stored in the storage unit 61.

[0067] The D / A converter 64 outputs an analog signal for operating the plurality of liquid crystal units 1-1 to 1-4 included in the optical element unit 700 based on the digital signal as a signal from the MCU 62. The D / A converter 64 includes a plurality of DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter) circuits. Hereinafter, the DAC circuit is referred to as "DAC". In this example, the D / A converter 64 includes eight DACs 64a to 64h. The plurality of DACs 64a to 64h convert the input digital signals into analog signals, respectively.

[0068] DAC64a and DAC64b correspond to the operational amplifier 67-1. DAC64a and DAC64b convert the digital signal output from the MCU62 into an analog signal. DAC64a and DAC64b output the analog signal input to the operational amplifier 67-1. As in this example, a digital signal can be converted into an analog signal by a plurality of DAC64a and DAC64b, or a digital signal can be converted into an analog signal by a single DAC.

[0069] DAC64c and DAC64d correspond to the operational amplifier 67-2. DAC64c and DAC64d convert the digital signal output from the MCU 62 into an analog signal. DAC64c and DAC64d output the analog signal input to the operational amplifier 67-2. As in this example, a digital signal can be converted into an analog signal by a plurality of DAC64c and DAC64d, or a digital signal can be converted into an analog signal by a single DAC.

[0070] DAC64e and DAC64f correspond to the operational amplifier 67-3. DAC64e and DAC64f convert the digital signal output from the MCU62 into an analog signal. DAC64e and DAC64f output the analog signal input to the operational amplifier 67-3. As in this example, a digital signal can be converted into an analog signal by a plurality of DAC64e and DAC64f, or a digital signal can be converted into an analog signal by a single DAC.

[0071] DAC64g and DAC64h correspond to the operational amplifier 67-4. DAC64g and DAC64h convert the digital signal output from the MCU62 into an analog signal. DAC64g and DAC64h output the analog signal input to the operational amplifier 67-4. As in this example, a digital signal can be converted into an analog signal by a plurality of DAC64g and DAC64h, or a digital signal can be converted into an analog signal by a single DAC.

[0072] The light source driving unit 65 is a controller that performs ON / OFF control of the light source 800 included in the light source unit 80 and controls the light emission intensity when ON under the control of the MCU 62. The controller may be composed of one circuit or a plurality of circuits.

[0073] The operational amplifiers 67-1, 67-2, 67-3, and 67-4 correspond to the liquid crystal cells 1-1, 1-2, 1-3, and 1-4. The operational amplifiers 67-1, 67-2, 67-3, and 67-4 input analog signals output from the D / A converter 64. The operational amplifiers 67-1, 67-2, 67-3, and 67-4 apply analog signals to the corresponding liquid crystal cells 1-1, 1-2, 1-3, and 1-4. The operational amplifiers 67-1, 67-2, 67-3, and 67-4 maintain the voltage levels of the analog signals supplied to the corresponding liquid crystal cells 1-1, 1-2, 1-3, and 1-4.

[0074] The storage unit 61 of the lighting device 100 according to the first embodiment includes a shape change interval storage area 611 and a diffusion degree storage area 612. The shape change interval storage area 611 stores the value of the shape change interval, and the diffusion degree storage area 612 stores the value of the diffusion degree.

[0075] according to Figure 5The lighting device 100 of the first embodiment shown can set the light distribution shape of the light from the light source unit 80 by controlling the signal level, that is, the voltage value, input to the optical element unit 700. For example, light distribution shapes R01, R02, R03, and R04 can be realized. Light distribution shape R01 is an elliptical light distribution shape. Light distribution shape R02 is a horizontally long light distribution shape. Light distribution shape R03 is a vertically long light distribution shape. Light distribution shape R04 is a cross-shaped light distribution shape obtained by combining a horizontally long light distribution shape and a vertically long light distribution shape.

[0076] (Operation of the lighting device according to the first embodiment)

[0077] Figure 6 It is a timing chart for explaining transmission and reception of signals in each unit of the lighting device 100 according to the first embodiment. Figure 6 The figure shows the signal transmission and reception in the terminal 200 such as a smartphone, the MCU 62, the light source 800, the D / A converter 64, and the optical element 700. Regarding the MCU 62, the signal transmission and reception in the timer control unit 621 and the task control unit 622 are shown. It should be noted that Figure 6 In, for Figure 5 The operational amplifier is omitted from the illustration.

[0078] exist Figure 6 In the process, the control application 20AP of the terminal 200 is operated to send the setting content, i.e., the target value, as an update signal (S1). Then, when the task control unit 622 of the MCU 62 of the lighting device 100 receives the update signal (S1), the task control unit 622 outputs a timer start signal (S2). When the timer control unit 621 receives the timer start signal (S2), the timer control unit 621 sets the timer value. The initial timer value is, for example, 100 [ms]. Every time the set timer value passes, the timer control unit 621 outputs a timer timeout signal.

[0079] When the set timer value has passed, the timer control unit 621 outputs a timer timeout signal (S3). The task control unit 622 that receives the timer timeout signal (S3) calculates the light distribution value (S4). The task control unit 622 outputs a dimming signal (S5) to the light source 800. In this example, the dimming value and the light distribution value are controlled independently. The task control unit 622 outputs the dimming value set in the terminal 200 as a dimming signal. In the same manner, the dimming value set in the terminal 200 is output as a dimming signal.

[0080] In addition, the task control unit 622 outputs a light distribution signal (S6) as a digital signal. The light distribution signal (S6) is converted into a light distribution signal (S7) as an analog signal by the D / A conversion unit 64. The light distribution signal (S7) is input to the optical element unit 700, and the light distribution control is performed by the liquid crystal unit of the optical element unit 700.

[0081] Here, a series of processes including the task control unit 622 calculating the light distribution value (S4), outputting the dimming signal (S5), outputting the light distribution signal (S6), and converting the light distribution signal (S7) by the D / A converter 64 is referred to as process SS1. Whenever a timer timeout signal is received, the task control unit 622 performs the same process as process SS1.

[0082] That is, when the set timer value is reached, the timer control unit 621 outputs a timer timeout signal (S8), and the task control unit 622 performs a series of processing SS2, including calculation of the light distribution value (S9), output of the dimming signal (S10), output of the light distribution signal (S11), and conversion of the light distribution signal (S12) by the D / A conversion unit 64.

[0083] Thereafter, similarly, when the timer control unit 621 outputs a timer timeout signal, a series of processes are performed, including calculation of light distribution and dimming values ​​by the task control unit 622 , output of a dimming signal, output of a light distribution signal, and conversion into a light distribution signal by the D / A converter 64 .

[0084] In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. Figure 4 As described above, the voltage value changes 6 times. Therefore, after the calculation of the light distribution value (S21), the output of the dimming signal (S22), the output of the light distribution signal (S23), and the conversion of the D / A converter 64 to the light distribution signal (S24), the task control unit 622 outputs a timer stop signal (S25). As a result, the timer control unit 621 stops outputting the timer timeout signal.

[0085] Figure 7 as well as Figure 8 This is a flowchart showing the operation of the lighting device according to the first embodiment. Figure 7 as well as Figure 8 The operation of MCU 62 is mainly shown. Figure 7 Towards Figure 8 The transfer is indicated by the circle number (1). Figure 8 Towards Figure 7The transfer is represented by the circled number (2). The following describes a case where the current light distribution shape with a lateral diffusion H of 0 and a longitudinal diffusion V of 170 is changed to a light distribution shape with a lateral diffusion H of 170 and a longitudinal diffusion V of 0 through user operation. It should be noted that the lateral diffusion and the longitudinal diffusion are sometimes collectively expressed as diffusion [H: 0, V: 170], etc. The following describes a case where the shape change amount is added to the current value in order to approach the lateral target value or the longitudinal target value. When the target value is smaller than the current value, the shape change amount is subtracted from the current value to approach the lateral target value or the longitudinal target value.

[0086] exist Figure 7 In the embodiment, first, when the user changes the diffusion degree from the current [H: 0, V: 170] to [H: 170, V: 0] by operating on the screen of the terminal 200, the terminal 200 sends the diffusion degree (shape data) after the operation as an update signal S1 to the lighting device 100a. The specific screen operation of the user at this time will be described later. In addition, the value of the diffusion degree after the operation is the target value (horizontal target value, vertical target value). The task control unit 622 of the MCU 62 of the lighting device 100a receives the shape data (horizontal target value (H: 170), vertical target value (V: 0)) from the terminal 200 (step S101). In addition, the task control unit 622 obtains the shape change interval (X) (100 ms in this embodiment) and the shape change amount (H, V) (±25 in this embodiment) from the storage unit 61 (step S102).

[0087] Next, the task control unit 622 starts the timer control unit 621 (step S103). The timer control unit 621 starts the control timer based on the shape change interval (X). The task control unit 622 uses the lateral change completion flag Fh and the longitudinal change completion flag Fv indicating whether the processing is completed or not for the lateral change and the longitudinal change. When the control timer is started, the task control unit 622 sets "0" (not completed) to the lateral change completion flag Fh, and sets "0" (not completed) to the longitudinal change completion flag Fv.

[0088] After that, the process is in a standby state until the timer control unit 621 detects a timeout (No in step S104 → step S104). When the timer control unit 621 detects a timeout (i.e., a predetermined shape change interval (e.g., 100ms) has passed), the process is transferred to Figure 8 (Yes in step S104). Figure 8 In step S107 , the task control unit 622 determines whether the lateral change completion flag Fh is “0” (not completed).

[0089] If the result of determination in step S107 is that the lateral change completion flag Fh is "0" (yes in step S107), the task control unit 622 calculates the lateral residual Δh (step S108). That is, the task control unit 622 calculates the difference between the lateral target value and the lateral current value. The lateral current value refers to the value of the current lateral light distribution shape, and the value changes every time the number of shape change intervals passes. In addition, the task control unit 622 determines whether the value of the lateral residual Δh calculated in step S108 is greater than 0 (step S109). When the result of determination in step S109 is that the value of the lateral residual Δh is greater than 0, that is, when the light distribution shape is made larger toward the lateral target value (yes in step S109), the task control unit 622 determines whether the absolute value of the lateral residual Δh is less than the lateral shape change amount, that is, the lateral diffusion H (step S110). That is, it is determined whether the absolute value of the lateral residual Δh is less than the lateral diffusion H, that is, "25". When the absolute value of the lateral residual Δh is not less than the lateral spread H (is equal to or greater than the lateral spread H) (No in step S110 ), the lateral spread H is added to the lateral current value to approach the lateral target value (step S111 ).

[0090] In addition, when the absolute value of the lateral residual Δh is smaller than the lateral diffusion H in step S110 (Yes in step S110), the lateral target value cannot be achieved using only the lateral diffusion H. Therefore, the task control unit 622 adds only the lateral residual Δh to the lateral current value to make the lateral current value consistent with the lateral target value, and sets the lateral change completion flag Fh to "1" (step S115).

[0091] When the value of the lateral residual Δh is not greater than 0 (is less than 0) in step S109, that is, when the light distribution shape is made smaller toward the lateral target value (No in step S109), the task control unit 622 determines whether the absolute value of the lateral residual Δh is greater than the lateral diffusion H (step S112). When the absolute value of the lateral residual Δh is greater than H in step S112 (Yes in step S112), in order to approach the lateral target value, the task control unit 622 subtracts the lateral diffusion H from the lateral current value (step S113).

[0092] If the absolute value of the lateral residual Δh is not greater than the lateral diffusion H (is less than the lateral diffusion H) in step S112 (No in step S112), the lateral target value cannot be achieved using only the lateral diffusion H. Therefore, the task control unit 622 subtracts only the lateral residual Δh from the lateral current value to make the lateral current value consistent with the lateral target value, and sets the lateral change completion flag Fh to "1" (step S114).

[0093] After step S111, S113, S114 or S115, transfer to step S116. In addition, when the judgment result of step S107 is that the lateral change completion flag Fh is "1" (No in step S107), transfer to step S116 in the same way. The task control unit 622 determines whether the longitudinal change completion flag Fv is "0" (not completed) (step S116). If the judgment result of step S116 is that the longitudinal change completion flag Fv is "0" (Yes in step S116), the task control unit 622 calculates the longitudinal residual Δv (step S117). That is, the task control unit 622 calculates the difference between the longitudinal target value and the longitudinal current value. The longitudinal current value refers to the value of the current longitudinal light distribution shape, and the value changes every time the number of shape change intervals passes.

[0094] The task control unit 622 determines whether the value of the longitudinal residual Δv calculated in step S117 is greater than 0 (step S118). When the result of the determination in step S118 is that the value of the longitudinal residual Δv is greater than 0, that is, when the light distribution shape is increased toward the longitudinal target value (yes in step S118), the task control unit 622 determines whether the absolute value of the longitudinal residual Δv is less than the longitudinal shape change amount, that is, the longitudinal diffusion V (step S119). That is, it is determined whether the absolute value of the longitudinal residual Δv is less than the longitudinal diffusion V, that is, "25". When the absolute value of the longitudinal residual Δv is not less than the longitudinal diffusion V in the longitudinal direction (is greater than the longitudinal diffusion V) (no in step S119), the longitudinal diffusion V is added to the longitudinal current value in order to approach the longitudinal target value (step S120).

[0095] Furthermore, when the absolute value of the longitudinal residual Δv is smaller than the longitudinal diffusion V in step S119 (Yes in step S119), the longitudinal target value cannot be achieved using only the longitudinal diffusion V. Therefore, the task control unit 622 adds only the longitudinal residual Δv to the longitudinal current value to make the longitudinal current value consistent with the longitudinal target value, and sets the longitudinal change completion flag Fv to "1" (step S124).

[0096] In step S118, when the value of the longitudinal residual Δv is not greater than 0 (is less than 0), that is, when the light distribution shape is made smaller toward the longitudinal target value (No in step S118), the task control unit 622 determines whether the absolute value of the longitudinal residual Δv is greater than the longitudinal diffusion V (step S121). In step S121, when the absolute value of the longitudinal residual Δv is greater than the longitudinal diffusion V (Yes in step S121), in order to approach the longitudinal target value, the task control unit 622 subtracts the longitudinal diffusion V from the longitudinal current value (step S122).

[0097] In step S121, if the absolute value of the longitudinal residual Δv is not greater than the longitudinal diffusion V (is less than the longitudinal diffusion V) (No in step S121), the longitudinal target value cannot be achieved using only the longitudinal diffusion V. Therefore, the task control unit 622 subtracts only the longitudinal residual Δv from the longitudinal current value to make the longitudinal current value consistent with the longitudinal target value, and sets the longitudinal change completion flag Fv to "1" (step S123). After step S120, step S122, step S123 or step S124, the task control unit 622 returns to step S120, step S122, step S123 or step S124. Figure 7 , transfer to step S125. In addition, if the result of the determination in step S116 is that the vertical change completion flag Fv is "1" (No in step S116), the process returns to step S125 in the same manner. Figure 7 , and transfer to step S125.

[0098] exist Figure 7 In the process, the task control unit 622 calculates the horizontal and vertical data based on the horizontal current value and the vertical current value (step S125). The task control unit 622 outputs digital signals corresponding to the horizontal and vertical data to the D / A converter 64 (step S126).

[0099] Next, the task control unit 622 determines whether all controls are completed (step S127 ), that is, determines whether the lateral change completion flag Fh is “1” and the longitudinal change completion flag Fv is “1”.

[0100] If the result of determination in step S127 is that the lateral change completion flag Fh is not "1" or the longitudinal change completion flag Fv is not "1" (No in step S127), the task control unit 622 returns to step S104 and continues the processing.

[0101] When the judgment result of step S127 is that the lateral change completion flag Fh is "1" and the longitudinal change completion flag Fv is "1" (yes in step S127), the task control unit 622 terminates the operation of the control timer of the timer control unit 621, and a series of processing ends (step S128).

[0102] (Settings of the lighting device according to the first embodiment)

[0103] Regarding the lighting device 100 , the shape change interval and the degree of diffusion of the light distribution shape can be indicated from outside the device. For example, by preinstalling an application software in a terminal such as a smartphone and starting the application software in the terminal, the shape change interval and the degree of diffusion of the light distribution shape can be indicated.

[0104] (Example of terminal setting screen)

[0105] Fig. 9It is a diagram showing an example of a screen for performing settings of the lighting device 100 according to the first embodiment. Fig. 9 An example of a screen of a terminal 200 such as a smartphone is shown. Fig. 9 An example of a screen 200s displayed by operating the terminal 200 to start the application software is shown. Fig. 9 As shown, the screen 200s of this example displays a light distribution range area 20s indicating the light distribution range of the lighting device 100, a dimming adjustment area 21s, a light distribution adjustment area 22s, a shape change interval setting area 23s, and a shape change amount setting area 24s.

[0106] The light distribution range area 20s is an area showing the light distribution shape set by the operation of the terminal 200. In the light distribution range area 20s, a light distribution shape object R20 corresponding to the light distribution shape realized by the setting of the lighting device at that time is displayed, which is linked to the numerical value shown in the light distribution adjustment area 22 described below.

[0107] The dimming adjustment area 21s is an area showing the dimming adjustment value set by the operation of the terminal 200. The dimming adjustment area 21s displays the current setting value of the dimming adjustment value. In this example, the current setting value of the dimming adjustment value is "255".

[0108] The light distribution adjustment area 22s is an area showing the light distribution adjustment value set by the operation of the terminal 200. The light distribution shape control state of the current lighting device side, that is, the current horizontal and vertical diffusion values, is displayed in the light distribution adjustment area 22s. In this example, the horizontal (Horizontal) setting value of the light distribution adjustment value is "128". In the horizontal direction, the setting value can be changed by dragging the operating point 21h to the right or left in the figure. In addition, in this example, the vertical (Vertical) setting value of the light distribution adjustment value is "0". In the vertical direction, the setting value can be changed by dragging the operating point 21v to the right or left in the figure. In the terminal 200, when the horizontal setting value and the vertical setting value are input by dragging the operating points 21h and 21v, the terminal 200 sends the changed vertical diffusion (target value) and the changed horizontal diffusion (target value) to the lighting device 100 at the same time.

[0109] The method of simultaneously sending the changed longitudinal diffusion (target value) and the changed lateral diffusion (target value) from the terminal 200 to the lighting device 100 is, for example, as described below. That is, a send button 24t is pre-set in the screen 200s, and the changed longitudinal and lateral diffusion (target value) can be sent simultaneously when the send button is tapped after the set value is input. In addition, the send button 24t is not set, and the two operating points 21h and 21v are operated simultaneously with two fingers, and the changed longitudinal and lateral diffusion (target value) are sent simultaneously when the fingers leave the screen 200s. Furthermore, the send button 24t is not set, and the shape of the light distribution shape object R20 is changed by sliding the two fingers, and the changed longitudinal and lateral diffusion (target value) are sent simultaneously when the fingers leave the screen 200s. It is preferred that the operating points 21h and 21v act in conjunction with the change in the shape of the light distribution shape object R20.

[0110] The shape change interval setting area 23s is an area showing the value of the shape change interval set by the operation of the terminal 200. The shape change interval setting area 23s displays the current setting value of the shape change interval. The current setting value of the shape change interval is "100ms". The setting value of the shape change interval can be changed by inputting a numerical value.

[0111] The shape change amount setting area 24s is an area showing the value of the shape change amount set by the operation of the terminal 200. The shape change amount setting area 24s displays the current setting value of the shape change amount. The current setting value of the shape change amount is "25". That is, the setting value indicates that the change amount of the light distribution shape in the horizontal and vertical directions is 25, and the change amount is 25 regardless of whether it is in the increasing direction or the decreasing direction. The setting value of the shape change amount can be changed by inputting a numerical value.

[0112] By using the terminal 200 to operate the dimming adjustment area 21s, the light distribution adjustment area 22s, the shape change interval setting area 23s, and the shape change amount setting area 24s, the settings of the lighting device can be changed and sent. Here, the shape change interval setting area 23s and the shape change amount setting area 24s are areas for changing the amount of change when changing the shape and the setting of the polarization interval time. Even if they are changed, the light distribution shape itself does not change. Therefore, these values ​​can be changed at other times that are different from the time when the light distribution shape is changed. On the other hand, the change of the light distribution adjustment area 22s changes the light distribution shape itself. Therefore, the above Figure 7 , Figure 8The change of the light distribution shape shown is started by changing the value of the light distribution adjustment area 22s. Specifically, the terminal 200 sends data related to the shape change interval (X) and the shape change amount (H, V) as the above-mentioned update signal (S1) to the lighting device 100 based on the content set by the operation of each area. Therefore, the user of the lighting device 100 can use the terminal 200 to realize the favorite light distribution shape through the lighting device 100.

[0113] (Data storage in lighting devices)

[0114] The storage unit 61 of the MCU 62 can store in advance data (X) on the shape change interval and data (H, V) on the shape change amount. Fig.10 1 is a flowchart for explaining the operation when data for controlling the lighting device 100 is stored by a terminal such as a smartphone. Fig.10 As shown, the lighting device 100 receives data (X) related to the shape change interval and data (H, V) related to the shape change amount from the terminal 200 such as a smartphone (step S201). Next, the lighting device 100 stores the received data (X) related to the shape change interval and data (H, V) related to the shape change amount in the storage unit 61 (step S202). The lighting device 100 operates as described above based on these data stored in the storage unit 61.

[0115] Fig.11 1 is a diagram for explaining the processing of longitudinal and lateral changes of the light distribution shape by the task control unit 622. The task control unit 622 approaches the longitudinal target value TV and the lateral target value TH by adding the shape change amount in each of the longitudinal (vertical direction) and lateral (horizontal direction). In the following, the case of adding the shape change amount is described, but there is also a case where the longitudinal target value TV and the lateral target value TH are approached by subtracting the shape change amount.

[0116] exist Fig.11 In the figure, when the center point P of the light distribution shape is used as a reference and the horizontal direction is taken into consideration, the current value is the horizontal current value HP1. In order to make the current value close to the horizontal target value TH, the task control unit 622 adds the horizontal shape change amount H1 to the horizontal current value HP1. As a result, the current value changes to the horizontal current value HP2. In other words, the horizontal current value HP2 becomes the new current value. Afterwards, similarly, in order to make the current value close to the horizontal target value TH, the task control unit 622 adds the horizontal shape change amount H2 to the horizontal current value HP2 to make it the new current value. The task control unit 622 repeats the above process.

[0117] In addition, when the center point P of the light distribution shape is used as a reference and the longitudinal direction is focused, the current value is the longitudinal current value VP1. In order to make the current value close to the longitudinal target value TV, the task control unit 622 adds the longitudinal shape change amount V1 to the longitudinal current value VP1. As a result, the current value changes to the longitudinal current value VP2. In other words, the longitudinal current value VP2 becomes the new current value. Afterwards, similarly, in order to make the current value close to the longitudinal target value TV, the task control unit 622 adds the longitudinal shape change amount V2 to the longitudinal current value VP2 to make it a new current value. The task control unit 622 repeats the above process.

[0118] (Second Embodiment)

[0119] Fig.12 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of a lighting device 100a according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.12 , the contents stored in the storage unit 61 of the lighting device 100a according to the second embodiment are different from those of the lighting device 100 according to the first embodiment. The lighting device 100a according to the second embodiment has a diffusion adjustment value holding area 613 and a shape switching time holding area 614 in addition to the shape change interval holding area 611 and the diffusion holding area 612. The diffusion adjustment value holding area 613 is an area for storing the diffusion adjustment value. The diffusion adjustment value is a value for adjusting the diffusion. The MCU 62 stores the diffusion adjustment value received by the communication unit 623 from the terminal 200 in the diffusion adjustment value holding area 613. The shape switching time holding area 614 is an area for storing the value of the shape switching time. The shape switching time indicates the time when the shape of the light distribution shape is switched. The MCU 62 stores the value of the shape switching time received by the communication unit 623 from the terminal 200 in the shape switching time holding area 614.

[0120] Fig.13 as well as Fig.14 is a flowchart showing the operation of the lighting device 100a according to the second embodiment. Fig.13 Towards Fig.14 The transfer is indicated by the circle number (3). Fig.14 Towards Fig.13 The transfer is indicated by the circle number (4). Fig.13 as well as Fig.14 In the process of the lighting device 100a of the second embodiment, the same as that of the reference Figure 7 The difference between the processing described is that the processing of step S102a, step S105 and step S106 are added.

[0121] exist Fig.13In the process, first, the task control unit 622 of the MCU 62 receives the shape data (horizontal target value, vertical target value) (step S101). In addition to the shape change interval (X) and the shape change amount (H, V), the task control unit 622 also obtains the data related to the shape change time (T1, T2...Tn) and the shape change amount adjustment value (H) from the storage unit 61. T1 、V T1 )…(H Tn 、V Tn )) related data (step S102a).

[0122] Next, the task control unit 622 starts the timer control unit 621 (step S103). The timer control unit 621 starts the control timer based on the shape change interval (X). At this time, "0" (not completed) is set in the horizontal change completion flag Fh, and "0" (not completed) is set in the vertical change completion flag Fv.

[0123] After that, the process is in a standby state until the timer control unit 621 detects a timeout (No in step S104 → step S104). When the timer control unit 621 detects a timeout, the process is transferred to Fig.14 (Yes in step S104). Fig.14 In step S105 , the task control unit 622 determines whether there is data ( T1 , T2 . . . Tn ) related to the next shape change time.

[0124] If there is data related to the next shape change time in step S105 (Yes in step S105), the process proceeds to step S106 to update the shape change amount (step S106). Tn Update the lateral spread H as the lateral shape change amount, and adjust the longitudinal shape change amount to V Tn The longitudinal diffusion V, which is the longitudinal shape change amount, is updated. Thereafter, the process moves to step S107.

[0125] If there is no data related to the next shape change time in step S105 (No in step S105), the process proceeds to step S107. In step S107, the task control unit 622 determines whether the lateral change completion flag Fh is "0" (not completed) (step S107). Figure 7 as well as Figure 8 The processing of instructions is the same.

[0126] (Example of terminal setting screen)

[0127] Fig.15It is a diagram showing an example of a screen for performing settings of the lighting device 100a according to the second embodiment. Fig.15 An example of a screen of a terminal 200 such as a smartphone is shown. Fig.15 An example of a screen 200s displayed when the application software is started by operating the terminal 200 is shown. Fig. 9 In addition to the screen 200s of the first embodiment described above, a setting area 25s for the horizontal shape change amount adjustment value, a setting area 26s for the vertical shape change amount adjustment value, and a setting area 27s for the shape change period are displayed.

[0128] In the setting area 25s for the lateral shape change adjustment value, "0", "10", "25" and "5" are displayed corresponding to the numbers "1", "2", "3" and "4" representing the order of shape changes. The setting value for the first time is "0", the setting value for the second time is "10", the setting value for the third time is "25", and the setting value for the fourth time is "5". When the slider 25h is dragged in the downward direction in the figure, the hidden numbers "5", "6"... that are larger than "4" can be displayed. Thus, the setting values ​​can also be entered for the fifth time, the sixth time... For example, as long as the setting values ​​can be entered up to the fiftieth time, it will be sufficient. By dragging the slider 25h in the upward or downward direction in the figure, the number representing the number of shape changes can be selected, and the setting value corresponding to the selected number can be entered.

[0129] In the setting area 26s of the longitudinal shape change adjustment value, "5", "0", "25" and "10" are displayed corresponding to the numbers "1", "2", "3" and "4" representing the order of shape changes. The setting value for the first time is "5", the setting value for the second time is "0", the setting value for the third time is "25", and the setting value for the fourth time is "10". When the slider 26v is dragged in the downward direction in the figure, the hidden numbers "5", "6"... that are larger than "4" can be displayed. Thus, the setting values ​​can also be entered for the fifth time, the sixth time... For example, as long as the setting values ​​can be entered up to the fiftieth time, it will be sufficient. By dragging the slider 26v in the upward or downward direction in the figure, the number representing the number of shape changes can be selected, and the setting value corresponding to the selected number can be entered.

[0130] In the setting area 27s during the shape change, "100ms", "200ms", "300ms" and "400ms" are displayed corresponding to the numbers "1", "2", "3" and "4" representing the order of shape change. The setting value for the first time, the setting value for the second time is "200ms", the setting value for the third time is "300ms", and the setting value for the fourth time is "400ms". When the slider 27p is dragged in the downward direction in the figure, the hidden numbers "5", "6"... that are larger than "4" can be displayed. Thus, the setting values ​​can also be entered for the fifth time, the sixth time... For example, as long as the setting values ​​can be entered up to the fiftieth time, it will be sufficient. By dragging the slider 27p in the upward or downward direction in the figure, the number representing the number of shape changes can be selected, and the setting value corresponding to the selected number can be entered.

[0131] According to the setting areas 25s, 26s, and 27s of this example, in this example, regarding the first shape change, the change value in the horizontal direction is "0" (H T1 =0), the vertical change value is "5" (V T1 =5), the time required for the first shape change is "100ms" (T0 (shape change start time) - T1 = 100ms). In addition, regarding the second shape change, the change value in the horizontal direction is "10" (H T2 =10), the vertical change value is "0" (V T2 = 0), the time required for the second shape change is "200ms" (T2-T1 = 200). Regarding the third shape change, the change value in the horizontal direction is "25" (H T3 =25), the vertical change value is "25" (V T3 = 25), the time required for the third shape change is "300ms" (T3-T2 = 300). Regarding the fourth shape change, the change value in the horizontal direction is "5" (H T4 =5), the vertical change value is "10" (V T4 =10), the period is "400ms" (T4-T3=400).

[0132] By inputting or operating the dimming adjustment area 21s, the light distribution adjustment area 22s, the shape change interval setting area 23s, the shape change amount setting area 24s, the lateral shape change amount adjustment value setting area 25s, the longitudinal shape change amount adjustment value setting area 26s, and the shape change period setting area 27s using the terminal 200, the setting of the lighting device can be changed. Based on the contents set by the operations in the above-mentioned areas, the terminal 200 outputs the shape change interval (X), the shape change amount (H, V), the data related to the shape change time (T1, T2 ... Tn), and the shape change amount adjustment value (H, V) to the terminal 200. T1 、V T1 )…(H Tn 、V Tn )) The relevant data is sent to the lighting device 100a. Therefore, the user of the lighting device 100a can use the terminal 200 to realize the favorite light distribution shape through the lighting device 100a.

[0133] (Data storage in lighting devices)

[0134] The storage unit 61 of the MCU 62 can store in advance data related to the shape change interval (X), data related to the shape change amount (H, V), data related to the shape change time (T1, T2...Tn), and data related to the shape change amount adjustment value (H, V). T1 、V T1 )…(H Tn 、V Tn ))Related data. Fig.16 1 is a flowchart for explaining the operation when the lighting device 100a is set via a terminal such as a smartphone. Fig.16 As shown, the lighting device 100 receives data (X) related to the shape change interval, data (H, V) related to the shape change amount, data (T1, T2 ... Tn) related to the shape change time, and data (H) related to the shape change amount adjustment value from the terminal 200 such as a smartphone. T1 、V T1 )…(H Tn 、V Tn )) related data (step S301). Next, the lighting device 100 stores the received data in the storage unit 61 (step S302). The lighting device 100 operates as described above based on the data stored in the storage unit 61.

[0135] (Example of how light distribution shape changes over time)

[0136] Fig.17 is a diagram showing an example of how the light distribution shape changes with the passage of time. Fig.17In FIG. 1 , the horizontal axis represents time and the vertical axis represents the value of the shape. In this example, the shape change in the lateral direction (horizontal direction) is described.

[0137] Before changing the light distribution shape, at time T1, the lateral shape change adjustment value is "H T1 The "H T1 " is the value of the shape before the change. Set the value of the shape after the change to "H TX ”.

[0138] When the shape change starts, at time T2, the lateral shape change adjustment value is "H T2 ”. In addition, at time T3, the lateral shape change adjustment value is “H T3 ”. Similarly, at each time, the shape changes. At time Tn, the lateral shape change adjustment value is “H Tn The line connecting the values ​​of the shape at each time is Fig.17 The solid line in JH.

[0139] If the shape change adjustment value H T1 , H T2 , H T3 ,…,H Tn For the same value, the shape change at each moment is constant, so from the "H T1 ” to the changed “H TX ", the slope of the solid line JH is constant. On the other hand, at the shape change adjustment value H T1 , H T2 , H T3 ,…,H Tn If the values ​​are not the same, Fig.17 As shown, the slope of the solid line JH is not constant, and changes to the changed "H TX ”.

[0140] The above description is about the shape change in the horizontal direction, but the shape change in the vertical direction is the same as above. In the vertical shape change, the shape change amount adjustment value is calculated according to "V T1 ”, “V T2 ”, “V T3 ”, …, “V Tn "The order of the shape changes, and the value of the changed shape is "V TX ” (not shown).

[0141] (Liquid Crystal Unit)

[0142] Next, refer to Figures 18 to 30 The liquid crystal cells 1 - 1 to 1 - 4 included in the optical element section 700 will be described.

[0143] Fig.18 is a perspective view showing an example of the optical element unit 700 according to the embodiment. Fig.18 , the Dz direction indicates the direction of light emitted from the light source 800 and the reflector (not shown). The optical element unit 700 is formed by stacking the first liquid crystal unit 1-1, the second liquid crystal unit 1-2, the third liquid crystal unit 1-3, and the fourth liquid crystal unit 1-4 in the Dz direction. In the present disclosure, the optical element unit 700 is formed by stacking the first liquid crystal unit 1-1, the second liquid crystal unit 1-2, the third liquid crystal unit 1-3, and the fourth liquid crystal unit 1-4 from the light source 800 side ( Fig.18 The first liquid crystal unit 1-1, the second liquid crystal unit 1-2, the third liquid crystal unit 1-3, and the fourth liquid crystal unit 1-4 are stacked in sequence. Fig.18 In the figure, a direction parallel to the plane of the stacking surface of the first liquid crystal unit 1-1, the second liquid crystal unit 1-2, the third liquid crystal unit 1-3 and the fourth liquid crystal unit 1-4 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).

[0144] The first liquid crystal cell 1-1, the second liquid crystal cell 1-2, the third liquid crystal cell 1-3, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 1-4 are respectively of the same configuration. In the present disclosure, the first liquid crystal cell 1-1 and the fourth liquid crystal cell 1-4 are set as liquid crystal cells for p-wave polarization. In addition, the second liquid crystal cell 1-2 and the third liquid crystal cell 1-3 are set as liquid crystal cells for s-wave polarization. Hereinafter, the first liquid crystal cell 1-1, the second liquid crystal cell 1-2, the third liquid crystal cell 1-3, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 1-4 are also collectively referred to as "liquid crystal cell 1".

[0145] The liquid crystal cell 1 includes a first substrate 5 and a second substrate 6 . Fig.19 This is a schematic top view of the first substrate as viewed from the Dz direction. Fig. 20 This is a simplified top view of the second substrate viewed from the Dz direction. Fig. 20 In the figure, the driving electrodes are electrodes that can be seen through the substrate, but the driving electrodes and wiring are shown with solid lines in order to give priority to ease of understanding. Fig.21 is a perspective view of a liquid crystal unit obtained by overlapping a first substrate and a second substrate in the Dz direction. Fig.21 In the figure, the driving electrodes and wirings on the second substrate side are shown with solid lines, and the driving electrodes and wirings on the first substrate side are shown with dotted lines for easy understanding. Fig. 22 yes Fig.21 The A-A' line cross-sectional view shown in FIG. Fig.19 , Fig. 20 , Fig.21 as well as Fig. 22, the third liquid crystal cell 1 - 3 and the fourth liquid crystal cell 1 - 4 are illustrated in which the driving electrodes 10 a and 10 b of the first substrate 5 extend in the Dx direction and the driving electrodes 13 a and 13 b of the second substrate 6 extend in the Dy direction.

[0146] like Fig. 22 As shown, the liquid crystal cell 1 includes a liquid crystal layer 8 between a first substrate 5 and a second substrate 6 , the periphery of which is sealed by a sealant 7 .

[0147] The liquid crystal layer 8 modulates light passing through the liquid crystal layer 8 according to the state of the electric field. As the liquid crystal molecules, positive nematic liquid crystals are used, but other liquid crystals having the same function may be used.

[0148] like Fig.19 As shown, the first substrate 5 has a plurality of drive electrodes 10a, 10b on the liquid crystal layer 8 side of the base material 9; 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. Fig. 20 ) is applied with a driving voltage. The metal wirings 11a, 11b, 11c, 11d are provided in the wiring layer of the first substrate 5. The metal wirings 11a, 11b, 11c, 11d are provided at intervals in the wiring layer on the first substrate 5. Hereinafter, the plurality of driving electrodes 10a, 10b may be referred to as “driving electrodes 10”. In addition, the plurality of metal wirings 11a, 11b, 11c, 11d may be referred to as “first metal wirings 11”. Fig.19 As shown, in the third liquid crystal unit 1-3 and the fourth liquid crystal unit 1-4, the driving electrode 10 on the first substrate 5 extends in the Dx direction. It should be noted that in the first liquid crystal unit 1-1 and the second liquid crystal unit 1-2, the driving electrode 10 on the first substrate 5 extends in the Dy direction.

[0149] like Fig. 20 As shown, in Fig. 22 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 arranged in a wiring layer of the second substrate 6. The metal wirings 14a, 14b are arranged at intervals in the wiring layer on the second substrate 6. In the following, the plurality of driving electrodes 13a, 13b may sometimes be referred to as "driving electrodes 13". In addition, the plurality of metal wirings 14a, 14b may sometimes be referred to as "second metal wirings 14". Fig. 20As shown, in the third liquid crystal unit 1-3 and the fourth liquid crystal unit 1-4, the driving electrode 13 on the second substrate 6 extends in the Dy direction. It should be noted that in the first liquid crystal unit 1-1 and the second liquid crystal unit 1-2, the driving electrode 13 on the second substrate 6 extends in the Dx direction.

[0150] 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) and alloys thereof. In addition, the first metal wiring 11 and the second metal wiring 14 may also be a laminated body obtained by stacking multiple layers using more than one of these metal materials. The resistance of at least one metal material selected from aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), silver (Ag), molybdenum (Mo) and alloys thereof is lower than the resistance of translucent conductive oxides such as ITO.

[0151] 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.

[0152] In addition, connection (Flex-on-Board) terminal portions 16a, 16b connected to a flexible printed circuit (FPC: Flexible Printed Circuits) (not shown) are provided in an area on the first substrate 5 that does not overlap with the second substrate 6 in the Dz direction. The connection terminal portions 16a, 16b have four connection terminals corresponding to the metal wirings 11a, 11b, 11c, and 11d, respectively.

[0153] The connection terminal portions 16a and 16b are provided in the wiring layer of the first substrate 5. The liquid crystal cell 1 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 may be simply referred to as "connection terminal portions 16".

[0154] like Fig.21As shown, in the liquid crystal unit 1, 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 1 thus constructed, 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 1 can be controlled. The area outside the effective area AA where the liquid crystal layer 8 is sealed by the sealant 7 is referred to as the "peripheral area GA" (refer to Fig. 22 ).

[0155] like Fig. 22 As shown, in the effective area AA of the first substrate 5, the driving electrode 10 (in Fig. 22 In the effective area AA of the second substrate 6, the driving electrode 13 (in Fig. 22 The driving electrodes 13a and 13b are covered by an alignment film 19. The alignment directions of the liquid crystal molecules are different between the alignment films 18 and 19.

[0156] Fig.23 It is a diagram showing the alignment direction of the alignment film of the first substrate. Fig.24 It is a diagram showing the alignment direction of the alignment film of the second substrate.

[0157] like Fig.23 as well as Fig.24 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.23 As shown by the solid arrow, the orientation direction of the orientation film 18 of the first substrate 5 is Fig.23 The extending directions of the driving electrodes 10a and 10b indicated by the dashed arrows are orthogonal to each other. Fig.24 As shown by the solid arrow, the orientation direction of the orientation film 19 of the second substrate 6 is Fig.24The extension directions of the driving electrodes 13a, 13b indicated by the dotted arrows are orthogonal. In the following, the case where the extension directions of the above-mentioned driving electrodes 10, 13 are orthogonal to the orientation directions of the orientation films 18, 19 covering them is described, but they can also cross 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 can also cross at an angle range of 85° to 90°, for example. It should be pointed out that the orientation directions of the orientation films 18, 19 are formed by friction treatment or photo-orientation treatment.

[0158] Here, a configuration in which the shape of light is changed by each of the liquid crystal cells 1 (the first liquid crystal cell 1 - 1 , the second liquid crystal cell 1 - 2 , the third liquid crystal cell 1 - 3 , and the fourth liquid crystal cell 1 - 4 ) will be described. Fig.25 It is a diagram of a stacked structure of an optical element according to an embodiment. Fig.26 , Fig. 27 , Fig.28 , Fig.29 1 is a conceptual diagram for explaining the change in shape of light generated by an optical element according to an embodiment. Fig.26 , Fig. 27 , Fig.28 , Fig.29 2 shows an example in which a potential difference is generated between the driving electrodes of the shaded substrates of each liquid crystal cell 1 .

[0159] like Fig.25 As shown, the optical element section 700 is provided on the optical axis of the light source 800 shown by the single-dot chain line. As described above, from the light source 800 side ( Fig.25 The first liquid crystal unit 1-1, the second liquid crystal unit 1-2, the third liquid crystal unit 1-3, and the fourth liquid crystal unit 1-4 are stacked in this order from the lower side of the first liquid crystal unit 1-1. The third liquid crystal unit 1-3 and the fourth liquid crystal unit 1-4 are stacked in a state rotated 90° relative to the first liquid crystal unit 1-1 and the second liquid crystal unit 1-2.

[0160] In each liquid crystal unit 1, Fig.23 as well as Fig.24As shown in FIG. 1 , the orientation directions of the orientation films on the first substrate 5 side and the second substrate 6 side intersect. As a result, the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules in 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 1, 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. Such rotation of the polarization component can be called optical rotation.

[0161] Fig.26 The figure shows a state where no potential is generated between adjacent electrodes of each liquid crystal cell 1. In this case, only optical rotation occurs in each liquid crystal cell 1, and no polarized light component is diffused.

[0162] Here, if Fig. 27 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 1-1, 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 800 passes through in this state, the above-mentioned refractive index distribution acts on the polarized light component parallel to the Dx direction (in Fig. 27 The p-polarized light component is diffused in the Dx direction.

[0163] 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 1-1, a refractive index distribution is formed in the Dy direction on the second substrate 6 side, and the s-polarized light component is diffused in 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 1-1 is also diffused in the Dy direction this time. On the other hand, the polarized light component that is the s-polarized light component when incident on the first liquid crystal cell 1-1 is optically rotated in the process of passing through the liquid crystal layer 8, but since it is a polarized light component that crosses any refractive index distribution, it is not diffused, and only passes through the first liquid crystal cell 1-1 in an optically rotated state.

[0164] The polarized light component that is an s-polarized light component when incident on the first liquid crystal cell 1-1 changes to a p-polarized light component after passing through the first liquid crystal cell 1-1, and the second liquid crystal cell 1-2 acts on the p-polarized light component. Fig.26 as well as Fig. 27As shown, in the light incident on the optical element section 700, the first liquid crystal cell 1-1 acts on the p-polarized light component, and the second liquid crystal cell 1-2 acts on the s-polarized light component. The third liquid crystal cell 1-3 and the fourth liquid crystal cell 1-4 are arranged to rotate 90° relative to the first liquid crystal cell 1-1 and the second liquid crystal cell 1-2, so the polarized light components they act on are also swapped by 90°. That is, the third liquid crystal cell 1-3 acts on the polarized light component that is the s-polarized light component when incident on the optical element section 700, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 1-4 acts on the polarized light component that is the p-polarized light component when incident on the optical element section 700.

[0165] like Fig.28 As shown, in the optical element, for each liquid crystal cell 1, a potential difference is provided 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 1-1 and the second liquid crystal cell 1-2, and between the driving electrodes 13a and 13b of the second substrate 6 in the third liquid crystal cell 1-3 and the fourth liquid crystal cell 1-4) to act on the p-polarized light component, and the shape of the light can be mainly increased in the Dx direction. Such an action can be called lateral diffusion.

[0166] In addition, if Fig.29 As shown, for each liquid crystal cell 1, by providing a potential difference between the driving electrodes extending in the Dx direction (between the driving electrodes 13a and 13b of the second substrate 6 in the first liquid crystal cell 1-1 and the second liquid crystal cell 1-2, and between the driving electrodes 10a and 10b of the first substrate 5 in the third liquid crystal cell 1-3 and the fourth liquid crystal cell 1-4), the s-polarized light component can be acted on, and the shape of the light can be mainly increased in the Dy direction. Such an effect can be called longitudinal diffusion.

[0167] The degree of diffusion of light in each direction depends on the potential difference between adjacent drive electrodes 10a, 10b (or between drive electrodes 13a, 13b). If the potential difference between drive electrodes 10a, 10b (or between drive electrodes 13a, 13b) is set to a predetermined maximum potential difference (e.g., 30 [V]), the expansion of light in that direction becomes maximum (100 [%]), and if no potential difference is generated at all, there is no expansion of light in that direction (0 [%]). Alternatively, if the potential difference between drive electrodes 10a, 10b (or between drive electrodes 13a, 13b) is set to 50 [%] of the above maximum potential difference (e.g., 15 [V]), the expansion of light in that direction is 50 [%]. It should be noted that in the case where the relationship between the voltage difference and the expansion of light is nonlinear, it may be other potential differences instead of 15 [V].

[0168] It should be noted that 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 1 is wide and is set to about 30μm to 50μm, 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, 10b (or between driving electrodes 13a, 13b) is a so-called AC rectangular wave, which naturally prevents the afterimage of liquid crystal molecules.

[0169] In addition, the orientation direction of each orientation film, the extension direction of the driving electrode of each substrate, and the angle between them can be appropriately changed according to the characteristics of the liquid crystal used and the optical characteristics to be exerted, according to the entire optical element part 700 or each liquid crystal unit 1.

[0170] It should be pointed out that in the present embodiment, with respect to the optical element portion 700, a structure of stacking four first liquid crystal units 1-1, second liquid crystal units 1-2, third liquid crystal units 1-3 and fourth liquid crystal units 1-4 is described, but it is not limited to this structure. For example, a structure of stacking two or three liquid crystal units 1 or a structure of stacking more than five liquid crystal units 1 may also be adopted.

[0171] In the present disclosure, in the lighting device 1 constructed as above, the light incident from the light source 800 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 1. It should be noted that the longitudinal diffusion and lateral diffusion mentioned above can be collectively referred to as light diffusion. Thus, the shape of the light emitted from the optical element is changed. The shape of the light refers to the shape of the light that appears on a surface parallel to the exit surface of the optical element, and it can also be referred to as a light distribution shape. In the following, refer to Fig.30 The control of light diffusion degree in the present disclosure will be described.

[0172] Fig.30 This is a conceptual diagram for conceptually explaining the control of light diffusion by the lighting device involved in the embodiment. In the figure, the irradiation range of light on the imaginary plane xy perpendicular to the Dz direction is shown. It should be noted that due to the distance from the light source 800, the diffraction phenomenon of light, etc., the outline of the actual irradiation range is slightly unclear.

[0173] As described above, by supplying driving voltages to the driving electrodes 10 and 13 of the liquid crystal cells 1 of the optical element section 700 disposed on the optical axis of the light source 800, 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 section 700 is controlled.

[0174] 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 1. Such diffusion of light in 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. Such diffusion of light in the Dy direction can be called longitudinal diffusion.

[0175] As described above, 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 255. More specifically, when the lateral diffusion degree is 0, the driving electrode (for example, the driving electrode 10 extending in the Dy direction in the first substrate 5 of the first liquid crystal unit 1-1) that functions to expand the light distribution state in the Dx direction 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, 10b, or the potential is not supplied to the electrodes. On the other hand, when the lateral diffusion degree is 255, the driving electrode (for example, the driving electrode 10 extending in the Dy direction in the first substrate 5 of the first liquid crystal unit 1-1) that functions to expand the light distribution state in the Dx direction 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, 10b is set to the maximum potential difference (for example, 30 [V]) in the optical element unit 700. When the lateral diffusion is greater than 0 and less than 255, the potential difference between adjacent drive electrodes 10a and 10b is adjusted to be greater than 0 [V] and less than the maximum potential difference (eg, 30 [V]) applied to the electrode.

[0176] Fig.30 The outline a shown shows an example of the irradiation range when both the lateral diffusion and the longitudinal diffusion are 100[%]. Fig.30 The outline b shown exemplifies the irradiation range when the lateral diffusivity is 100[%] and the longitudinal diffusivity is 0[%]. Fig.30 The outline c shown shows an example of the irradiation range when the lateral diffusion is 0[%] and the longitudinal diffusion is 100[%]. Fig.30 The outline d shown illustrates the irradiation range when both the lateral diffusion and the longitudinal diffusion are 0 [%]. That is, the outline d shows the light distribution state when the light from the light source 800 is emitted without any control by the optical element unit 700 (it can be said that the light directly passes through the optical element unit 700).

[0177] In this way, in the lighting device 1 having the above structure, by controlling the driving voltage of each liquid crystal unit 1, the lateral diffusion and the longitudinal diffusion of the light emitted from the optical element unit 700 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".

[0178] It should be noted that, 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 illustrated, 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, the form may include dimming (brightness) as a parameter that can be controlled in the lighting device 1.

[0179] Fig.31 is a schematic diagram showing an example of light distribution control in which light distribution control is performed through a light distribution control area LDA. The light distribution control area LDA is an area where a plurality of drive electrodes 10 and a plurality of drive electrodes 13 are arranged in a top view. That is, the light distribution control area LDA includes a plurality of electrodes extending in the Dx direction and arranged in the Dy direction and a plurality of electrodes extending in the Dy direction and arranged in the Dx direction. The electrodes extending in the Dx direction and arranged in the Dy direction are, for example, drive electrodes 10. The electrodes extending in the Dy direction and arranged in the Dx direction are, for example, drive electrodes 13.

[0180] The optical element section 700 has four liquid crystal units 1-1 to 1-4 overlapping in the Dz direction, so that the plurality of electrodes extending in the Dx direction and arranged in the Dy direction and the plurality of electrodes extending in the Dy direction and arranged in the Dx direction are formed in four layers in the Dy direction. By controlling the respective potentials of the plurality of electrodes extending in the Dx direction and arranged in the Dy direction and the plurality of electrodes extending in the Dy direction and arranged in the Dx direction of the four liquid crystal units 1-1 to 1-4 of the optical element section 700, the light distribution control area LDA can be, for example, Fig.31 The transmission range and degree of light transmitted from one surface side to the other surface side of the optical element portion 700 are controlled as in the examples E1, E2, E3, and E4 of the “light distribution shape examples” shown in the figure.

[0181] Fig.31Example E1 is a schematic diagram showing a state of observing the light distribution control area LDA from a top view from the opposite side of a light source (e.g., light source 800) when the potential differences between adjacent electrodes of the plurality of electrodes extending in the Dx direction and arranged in the Dy direction and the plurality of electrodes extending in the Dy direction and arranged in the Dx direction are all 0 volts (V). In Example E1, light from the light source almost directly passes through the light distribution control area LDA.

[0182] Example E2 is a schematic diagram showing a state of the light distribution control area LDA observed from the opposite side of the light source (e.g., light source 800) from a top view when the potential difference between adjacent electrodes of a plurality of electrodes extending in the Dx direction and arranged in the Dy direction is 0 volts (V) and the potential difference between adjacent electrodes of a plurality of electrodes extending in the Dy direction and arranged in the Dx direction is a potential exceeding 0 volts (V). In Example E2, the light distribution control area LDA is shown in a state where the light distribution is controlled so that, when comparing the expansion of light in the Dx direction with the expansion of light in the Dy direction, the light from the light source expands relatively greatly in the Dx direction and does not expand much in the Dy direction. In this way, by making the potential difference between adjacent electrodes of a plurality of electrodes extending in the Dy direction and arranged in the Dx direction greater than the potential difference between adjacent electrodes of a plurality of electrodes extending in the Dx direction and arranged in the Dy direction, the diffusion in the Dx direction (lateral diffusion) can be made greater than the diffusion in the Dy direction (longitudinal diffusion).

[0183] Example E3 is a schematic diagram showing a state of observing the light distribution control area LDA from the opposite side of the light source (for example, light source 800) from a top view when the potential difference between adjacent electrodes of a plurality of electrodes extending in the Dx direction and arranged in the Dy direction is a potential exceeding 0 volts (V) and the potential difference between adjacent electrodes extending in the Dy direction and arranged in the Dx direction is 0 volts (V). In Example E3, the light distribution control area LDA is shown in which the light distribution is controlled so that the light from the light source expands relatively greatly in the Dy direction and does not expand much in the Dx direction when the expansion of the light in the Dx direction and the expansion of the light in the Dy direction are compared. In this way, by making the potential difference between adjacent electrodes of the plurality of electrodes extending in the Dy direction and arranged in the Dx direction smaller than the potential difference between adjacent electrodes of the plurality of electrodes extending in the Dx direction and arranged in the Dy direction, the diffusion in the Dy direction (longitudinal diffusion) can be made greater than the diffusion in the Dx direction (lateral diffusion).

[0184] Example E4 is a schematic diagram showing a state in which the light distribution control area LDA is observed from the opposite side of the light source (for example, the light source 800) from a top view when the potentials of the plurality of electrodes extending in the Dx direction and arranged in the Dy direction and the plurality of electrodes extending in the Dy direction and arranged in the Dx direction are all greater than 0 volts (V). In Example E4, the light distribution control area LDA is shown in a state in which the lateral diffusion and the longitudinal diffusion substantially occur simultaneously, resulting in the light distribution control area LDA being dark as a whole when observed from the opposite side of the light source across the light distribution control area LDA.

[0185] It should be noted that the light distribution control area LDA has two or more electrodes extending in the Dx direction and arranged in the Dy direction and two or more electrodes extending in the Dy direction and arranged in the Dx direction in a top view. Here, it is assumed that a light distribution control area LDA has m electrodes extending in the Dx direction and arranged in the Dy direction and n electrodes extending in the Dy direction and arranged in the Dx direction as a first condition. In addition, it is assumed that the number of electrodes (for example, the first electrode 25) extending in the Dx direction and arranged in the Dy direction in a liquid crystal unit 1-1 to 1-4 is m×p, and the number of electrodes (for example, the second electrode 33) extending in the Dy direction and arranged in the Dx direction is n×q as a second condition. If the first condition and the second condition are taken as the premise, the optical element unit 700 can set p light distribution control areas LDA in the Dx direction and q light distribution control areas LDA in the Dy direction in a matrix. m, n, p, q are natural numbers greater than 2. Of course, the entire active region (region where the liquid crystal layer is provided) of a liquid crystal unit in a plan view may be regarded as a light distribution control region LDA.

[0186] In addition, Fig.31 In the examples E1, E2, E3, and E4 shown, the difference in the shape of the light distribution generated by the potential control in the top view is particularly shown. Fig.21 as well as Fig. 22 As described above, the shape and size of the light transmission range can be more flexibly controlled based on the relationship between the potential supplied to the first electrode 25 and the potential supplied to the second electrode 33. This control can change the shape and size of the irradiated light.

[0187] Description of Reference Numerals

[0188] 1, 1-1 to 1-4, liquid crystal unit; 60, control unit; 61, storage unit; 62, MCU; 64, D / A conversion unit; 65, light source driving unit; 80, light source unit; 100, 100a, lighting device; 200, terminal; 621, timer control unit; 622, task control unit; 623, communication unit; 700, optical element unit; 800, light source.

Claims

1. A lighting device, comprising: A light source part, emitting light; a light distribution shape setting unit, used to set the light distribution shape of the light from the light source unit; a storage unit storing light distribution shape data related to the light distribution shape; as well as a control unit that controls the light distribution shape setting unit based on the light distribution shape data, The light distribution shape setting unit sets the light distribution shape according to a signal level input from the control unit. When the control unit changes the signal level input to the light distribution shape setting unit from the first level to the second level, the control unit changes the signal level from the first level to a third level, and after maintaining the third level for a predetermined time, changes from the third level to the second level, wherein the third level is a level between the first level and the second level.

2. The lighting device according to claim 1, wherein: The storage unit stores: a shape change interval, wherein the shape change interval is a time interval for changing the shape of the light distribution shape; as well as a shape change amount, wherein the shape change amount is an amount by which the shape of the light distribution shape is changed; The control unit controls the light distribution shape setting unit based on the shape change interval and the shape change amount stored in the storage unit.

3. The lighting device according to claim 2, wherein: The storage unit also stores: a shape change amount adjustment value, the shape change amount adjustment value being a value used to adjust the shape change amount; and a shape switching time, wherein the shape switching time indicates a time when the shape of the light distribution shape is switched, The control unit adjusts the shape change amount based on the shape change amount adjustment value stored in the storage unit, The control unit changes the shape of the light distribution shape based on the shape switching timing stored in the storage unit.

4. The lighting device according to claim 2 or 3, wherein: For the light distribution shape, the shape change amount includes data on the change amounts in the lateral direction and the longitudinal direction orthogonal to each other. The control unit controls the light distribution shape setting unit separately for the horizontal direction and the vertical direction.

5. The lighting device according to claim 2 or 3, wherein: The control unit changes the current light distribution shape into a new light distribution shape by adding or subtracting the shape change amount from the current light distribution shape. The control unit repeatedly adds or subtracts the shape change amount to bring the light distribution shape closer to a target value light distribution shape.

6. The lighting device according to claim 5, wherein: The control unit regards the current light distribution shape as the light distribution shape of the target value when the difference between the current light distribution shape and the light distribution shape of the target value is smaller than the shape change amount.

7. The lighting device according to claim 3, wherein: The lighting device further includes a communication unit that receives a signal sent from an external device. The communication unit receives the shape change amount adjustment value and the shape switching time, and the shape change amount adjustment value and the shape switching time received by the communication unit are stored in the storage unit.

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