Lighting design support system and lighting design support method

Abstract

The problem to be overcome by the present disclosure is to shorten the time taken for lighting design for a target facility. A lighting design support system (1) includes an input device (31), a storage device (22), an estimator (211), and a creator (212). The input device (31) accepts input of request information and facility information. The storage device (22) stores a plurality of first space structures, each of the plurality of first space structures being a space structure created through a process of lighting design using one or more lighting fixtures. The estimator (211) estimates a second space structure based on the facility information. The second space structure is a space structure of a target facility (100). The creator (212) creates space information for the target facility (100) through a process of lighting design according to the request information. The creator (212) reads out any one of the plurality of first space structures stored in the storage device (22) from the storage device (22) as a similar structure similar to the second space structure. The creator (212) also creates the space information based on structure information as information about the similar structure.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to lighting design support systems and methods, and more specifically to lighting design support systems and methods used to support the lighting design of target facilities. Background Technology

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a method for simulating lighting using the Internet. According to the lighting simulation method of Patent Document 1, plan view information downloaded as a plan view by operating an Internet terminal is converted into a three-dimensional image and displayed on the screen of the Internet terminal. Lighting equipment selected based on the plan view information is displayed and composited with the three-dimensional image, and the lighting effect produced by the lighting equipment is simulated.

[0003] According to the lighting simulation method in Patent Document 1, a certain amount of time is required to simulate the lighting effect. Therefore, it takes a relatively long time to present the lighting effect, which is a problem with the method in Patent Document 1. That is, the lighting simulation method in Patent Document 1 requires a considerable amount of time for lighting design. Reference List Patent documents

[0004] Patent Document 1: JP 2002-334119 A Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide a lighting design support system and a lighting design support method, both of which help to reduce the time spent on lighting design for target facilities.

[0006] A lighting design support system according to one aspect of this disclosure is used to support lighting design for a target facility. The lighting design support system includes an input device, a storage device, an estimator, and a creator. The input device accepts input request information and facility information. The request information is information about a user request. The facility information is information about the target facility. The storage device stores a plurality of first spatial structures. Each of the plurality of first spatial structures is a spatial structure created by a lighting design process using one or more lighting fixtures. The estimator estimates a second spatial structure based on the facility information received by the input device. The second spatial structure is the spatial structure of the target facility. The creator creates spatial information for the target facility through a lighting design process based on the request information received by the input device. The creator reads any one of the plurality of first spatial structures stored in the storage device as a similar structure to the second spatial structure. The creator also creates spatial information based on structural information as information about the similar structure.

[0007] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a lighting design support system is used to support the lighting design of a target facility. The lighting design support system includes an input device, a storage device, and a creator. The input device accepts input of facility information and equipment information. The facility information is information about the target facility. The equipment information is information about first lighting equipment. The storage device stores a plurality of first spatial structures. Each of the plurality of first spatial structures is a spatial structure created by a lighting design process using one or more second lighting equipment. The creator creates spatial information for the target facility through the lighting design process. The creator reads any one of the plurality of first spatial structures stored in the storage device as a similar structure to the second spatial structure. The second spatial structure is the spatial structure of the target facility. The creator extracts any one of one or more second lighting equipment included in the similar structure as a similar lighting equipment to the first lighting equipment. The creator creates spatial information by placing the first lighting equipment in the second spatial structure based on the position information of the similar lighting equipment in the similar structure.

[0008] A lighting design support method according to another aspect of this disclosure is used to support the lighting design of a target facility. The lighting design support method includes an input step, an estimation step, and a creation step. The input step includes accepting request information and facility information as input. The request information is information about a user request. The facility information is information about the target facility. The estimation step includes estimating the spatial structure of the target facility based on the facility information accepted in the input step. The creation step includes creating spatial information for the target facility through a lighting design process based on the request information accepted in the input step. The creation step also includes reading from a storage device any one of a plurality of first spatial structures stored in the storage device as a similar structure to a second spatial structure. The storage device stores a plurality of first spatial structures. Each of the plurality of first spatial structures is a spatial structure created by a lighting design process using one or more lighting fixtures. The second spatial structure is the spatial structure of the target facility. The creation step also includes creating spatial information based on structural information as information about a similar structure.

[0009] A lighting design support method according to another aspect of this disclosure is used to support the lighting design of a target facility. The lighting design support method includes an input step and a creation step. The input step includes accepting facility information and equipment information as input. The facility information is information about the target facility. The equipment information is information about first lighting equipment. The creation step includes creating spatial information for the target facility through a lighting design process. The creation step also includes reading from a storage device any one of a plurality of first spatial structures stored in the storage device as a similar structure to a second spatial structure. The storage device stores a plurality of first spatial structures. Each of the plurality of first spatial structures is a spatial structure created by a lighting design process using one or more second lighting equipment. The second spatial structure is the spatial structure of the target facility. The creation step also includes extracting any one of one or more second lighting equipment included in the similar structure as a similar lighting equipment to the first lighting equipment. The creation step also includes creating spatial information by placing the first lighting equipment in the second spatial structure based on the location information of the similar lighting equipment in the similar structure. Attached Figure Description

[0010] [ Figure 1 ] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of the lighting design support system according to the first embodiment; [ Figure 2 ] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram showing the status of the first image displayed as facility information on a mobile communication device for use in a lighting design support system; [ Figure 3 ] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram showing the status of the second image being displayed on a mobile communication device as request information for use in a lighting design support system; [ Figure 4 ] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary output of a mobile communication device used in a lighting design support system; [ Figure 5 ] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the process of a lighting design support method performed by a lighting design support system; [ Figure 6 ] Figure 6 It is a block diagram of the creator included in the lighting design support system of the second variant according to the first embodiment; [ Figure 7 ] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary output of a mobile communication device for a lighting design support system of a third variant according to the first embodiment; [ Figure 8 ] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary output of a mobile communication device for a lighting design support system of a fourth variant according to the first embodiment; [ Figure 9 ] Figure 9 It is a block diagram of the control unit included in the lighting design support system of the fifth variant according to the first embodiment; [ Figure 10 ] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram showing the status of the first image displayed as facility information on a mobile communication device for use in a lighting design support system; [ Figure 11 ] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram showing the status of the second image being displayed on a mobile communication device as request information for use in a lighting design support system; [ Figure 12 ] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary output of a mobile communication device used in a lighting design support system; [ Figure 13 ] Figure 13 This is a block diagram of the lighting design support system according to the second embodiment; [ Figure 14 ] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram showing the status of the first image displayed as facility information on a mobile communication device for use in a lighting design support system; [ Figure 15 ] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram showing the state in which the second image is displayed as device information on a mobile communication device for use in a lighting design support system; [ Figure 16 ] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary output of a mobile communication device used in a lighting design support system; [Figure 17] Figures 17A-17C This is a schematic diagram illustrating how the creator included in a lighting design support system operates; [ Figure 18 ] Figure 18 This is a flowchart illustrating the process of a lighting design support method performed by a lighting design support system; [ Figure 19 ] Figure 19 It is a block diagram of the creator included in the lighting design support system of the first variant according to the second embodiment; and [ Figure 20 ] Figure 20 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary output of a mobile communication device for a lighting design support system of a second variant according to a second embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0011] The lighting design support system and lighting design support method according to the first and second embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the drawings to be referenced in the following description of the first and second embodiments and their variations are schematic diagrams. Therefore, the ratios of the dimensions (including thickness) of the corresponding components shown in the drawings do not always reflect their actual size ratios. Furthermore, the ratios of the dimensions (including thickness) between the corresponding components do not always reflect their actual size ratios.

[0012] (First embodiment) (1) Overview First, refer to Figure 1 An overview of the lighting design support system 1 according to the first embodiment is described.

[0013] The lighting design support system 1 according to the first embodiment is a system for supporting the lighting design of a target facility 100. The target facility 100 may be, for example, a residential facility (e.g., each residential unit in a single-family home or a multi-family home) or a non-residential facility (e.g., an office, shop, school, or care facility). In this embodiment, it is assumed that the target facility 100 is, for example, each residential unit or each room in a multi-family home. As used herein, the term "lighting design" refers to, for example, selecting one or more lighting fixtures to be installed in the target facility 100, placing one or more lighting fixtures in the target facility 100, and using one or more lighting fixtures to set illuminance.

[0014] The lighting design support system 1 according to the first embodiment includes, as follows: Figure 1 The input device 31, storage device 22, estimator 211, and creator 212 are shown. Input device 31 receives request information In2 (see reference). Figure 3 ) and facility information In1 (reference) Figure 2 The input is the user request information. Request information In2 is information about the user's request. Facility information In1 is information about the target facility 100. Storage device 22 stores multiple first space structures 201 (see reference). Figure 4 Each of the plurality of first spatial structures 201 is illuminated by using one or more lighting devices 101 (see reference). Figure 4 The spatial structure is created through the lighting design process. The estimator 211 estimates the second spatial structure 202 (reference) based on the facility information In1 received by the input device 31. Figure 2 The second spatial structure 202 is the spatial structure of the target facility 100. The creator 212, based on the request information In2 received by the input device 31, creates spatial information In3 for the target facility 100 through a lighting design process (see reference). Figure 4More specifically, the creator 212 reads any one of the plurality of first spatial structures 201 stored in the storage device 22 as a similar structure to the second spatial structure 202. The creator 212 also creates spatial information In3 based on structural information, which is information about the first spatial structure 201 read from the storage device 22 as a similar structure. In this case, in the lighting design support system 1 according to the first embodiment, the structural information includes image information about the first spatial structure 201 (the similar structure) (i.e., data about the second image Im2 (described later)). The creator 212 then creates the spatial information In3 based on the image information.

[0015] In the lighting design support system 1 according to the first embodiment, the creator 212 reads any one of a plurality of first spatial structures 201 stored in the storage device 22 as a similar structure to the second spatial structure 202. Then, the creator 212 creates spatial information In3 based on the structural information, which is information about the similar structure read from the storage device 22. This allows for a reduction in the time spent creating the spatial information In3 compared to simulating the lighting effects produced by lighting equipment. That is, the lighting design support system 1 according to the first embodiment allows for a reduction in the time spent on lighting design for the target facility 100.

[0016] (2) Details Next, we will refer to Figure 1 The corresponding components of the lighting design support system 1 according to the first embodiment are described.

[0017] The lighting design support system 1 according to the first embodiment is a system for supporting the lighting design of the target facility 100 as described above. The lighting design support system 1 according to the first embodiment includes, as follows: Figure 1 The diagram shows server device 2, mobile communication device 3, and sensing device 4. Mobile communication device 3 can be, for example, a user's own smartphone, desktop computer, or personal computer. In this embodiment, it is assumed that mobile communication device 3 is a desktop computer as an example (see reference). Figures 2-4 The sensing device 4 is installed in the target facility 100.

[0018] (2.1) Server equipment Server device 2 can be implemented as, for example, a computer system including one or more processors and one or more memories. That is, the computer system functions as server device 2 by having one or more processors execute programs stored in one or more memories of the computer system. In this embodiment, the program is pre-stored in the computer system's memory. Alternatively, the program may also be downloaded via a telecommunications line such as the Internet, or distributed after it has been stored on a non-transitory storage medium such as a memory card.

[0019] like Figure 1 As shown, server device 2 includes control unit 21, storage device 22 and communication unit 23.

[0020] (2.1.1) Control Unit Control unit 21 provides overall control of server device 2. Control unit 21 is electrically connected to each of storage device 22 and communication unit 23. Control unit 21 controls storage device 22 to store and retrieve information from storage device 22. Furthermore, control unit 21 controls communication unit 23 to communicate with mobile communication device 3 and sensing device 4. Control unit 21 includes estimator 211 and creator 212.

[0021] Estimator 211 is based on facility information In1 (refer to) received by input device 31 (described later) of mobile communication device 3. Figure 2 To estimate the second spatial structure 202 (reference) Figure 2 The second spatial structure 202 is the spatial structure of the target facility 100. Facility information In1 is information about the target facility 100. More specifically, facility information In1 includes, for example, Figure 2 The data shown pertains to the first image Im1 displayed on the display unit 30 of the mobile communication device 3. Figure 2 In the example shown, a single first image Im1 generated by photographing a room (e.g., a living room) in the target facility 100 is displayed on the display unit 30. Alternatively, multiple first images Im1 may be displayed on the display unit 30. In this case, the multiple first images Im1 may be images generated by photographing a room in the target facility 100 multiple times from multiple different angles, or they may be images generated by photographing multiple rooms in the target facility 100, as appropriate.

[0022] Additionally, the estimator 211 also acquires the sensing results obtained by the sensing device 4 as facility information In1. The sensing device 4 is installed in the target facility 100 to acquire (detect) three-dimensional spatial information of the target facility 100. That is, the facility information In1 includes the sensing results obtained by the sensing device 4 installed in the target facility 100. Then, the estimator 211 estimates the second spatial structure 202 based on data about a single first image Im1 displayed on the display unit 30 of the mobile communication device 3 and the three-dimensional spatial information provided by the sensing device 4. This allows the estimator 211 to estimate the second spatial structure 202 more accurately than if it were to estimate the second spatial structure 202 based solely on data about the first image Im1.

[0023] The second spatial structure 202 estimated by estimator 211 can be, for example, a three-dimensional spatial structure. In this embodiment, estimator 211 estimates the second spatial structure 202 based on data about the first image Im1 and three-dimensional spatial information provided by sensing device 4, thereby allowing for the estimation of a three-dimensional spatial structure with high accuracy. Note that the second spatial structure 202 estimated by estimator 211 does not have to be a three-dimensional spatial structure, but can also be, for example, a two-dimensional spatial structure. This allows for the reduction of the processing load on estimator 211.

[0024] Creator 212, based on the request information In2 (reference) received by input device 31 Figure 3 ), through the lighting design process to create spatial information for target facility 100 In3 (reference) Figure 4 Request information In2 is information about the user's request. More specifically, request information In2 includes, for example, Figure 3 The data shown pertains to the second image Im2 displayed on the display unit 30 of the mobile communication device 3. The second image Im2 may be, for example, an image generated by capturing a space for which lighting design (lighting plan) has been carried out according to the user's request.

[0025] More specifically, creator 212 reads any one of a plurality of first spatial structures 201 stored in storage device 22 (described later) as a similar structure to the second spatial structure 202. Creator 212 creates spatial information In3 for target facility 100 based on structural information as information about the first spatial structure 201 (similar structure) read from storage device 22. In this embodiment, the structural information includes image information about the first spatial structure 201 (similar structure). More specifically, the structural information includes data about a second image Im2 as image information. Creator 212 then creates spatial information In3 for target facility 100 based on the data about the second image Im2 as image information. The spatial information In3 for target facility 100 created by creator 212 includes, for example, Figure 4 The data shown is for the third image Im3. The third image Im3 is an image of the first spatial structure 201, which is a similar structure to the second spatial structure 202 of the target facility 100, and is read from the storage device 22. The third image Im3 is an image created by a lighting design process involving the placement of one or more lighting fixtures 101.

[0026] (2.1.2) Storage devices Storage device 22 includes a memory, such as read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), or electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM). Storage device 22 stores a plurality of first spatial structures 201. Each of the plurality of first spatial structures 201 is illuminated using one or more lighting devices 101 (see reference). Figure 4 The process of lighting design creates a spatial structure. That is, in each of the multiple first spatial structures 201, one or more lighting fixtures 101 have been placed.

[0027] (2.1.3) Communication Unit Communication unit 23 includes a communication interface for establishing communication with mobile communication device 3. Communication unit 23 communicates with communication unit 34 of mobile communication device 3 (described later), for example, via a network (e.g., the Internet). Communication unit 23 communicates with communication unit 34 to receive (acquire) request information In2 and facility information In1 that have been accepted by input device 31 of mobile communication device 3. Additionally, communication unit 23 communicates with communication unit 34 to send spatial information In3 created by creator 212. Spatial information In3 is information about the spatial structure of the target facility 100 through the lighting design process. Mobile communication device 3 displays the spatial information In3 received at communication unit 34 on display unit 30. In this embodiment, display unit 30 of mobile communication device 3 corresponds to output device 32. That is, lighting design support system 1 also includes output device 32 to output spatial information In3. This allows the user to be notified of the spatial information In3 of the target facility 100 undergoing lighting design.

[0028] (2.2) Mobile communication equipment The mobile communication device 3 can be, for example, a user-owned tablet computer as described above. The mobile communication device 3 can be implemented as, for example, a computer system including one or more processors and one or more memories. That is, the computer system functions as the mobile communication device 3 by having one or more processors execute a program stored in one or more memories of the computer system. In this embodiment, the program is pre-stored in the computer system's memory. Alternatively, the program can also be downloaded via a telecommunications line such as the Internet, or distributed after it has been stored in a non-transitory storage medium such as a memory card.

[0029] like Figure 1 As shown, the mobile communication device 3 includes an input device 31, an output device 32, a control unit 33, a communication unit 34, and a storage device 35.

[0030] (2.2.1) Input devices Input device 31 accepts input of request information In2 and facility information In1. As described above, request information In2 is information about the user's request, and facility information In1 is information about the target facility 100. In this embodiment, in Figure 3 In the example shown, the second image Im2 comprises four images generated by capturing images from different facilities. The user selects any one of these four images, causing the input device 31 to accept the selected image as request information In2. In this embodiment, the mobile communication device 3 is a tablet computer; therefore, the input device 31 is implemented as the touchscreen panel of the tablet computer.

[0031] In this scenario, for example, if the requested information includes options such as "fashion space" and "modern space," the user can certainly imagine the space corresponding to each of these options. However, he or she can hardly imagine the intermediate space between "fashion space" and "modern space." Therefore, in this case, the mobile communication device 3 is preferably configured to allow the user to select his or her desired image from the second image Im2 displayed on the display unit 30 of the mobile communication device 3, such as... Figure 3 As shown.

[0032] Additionally, input device 31 also accepts input to modify the spatial information In3 output by output device 32 (display unit 30). In this embodiment, for example, the input that causes input device 31 to accept modification allows changing the type of lighting fixture 101 included in the spatial information In3, deleting lighting fixture 101, adding another lighting fixture 101, or changing the position of the lighting fixture 101. This allows modification of the spatial information In3 presented by the lighting design support system 1 according to the user's preferences.

[0033] (2.2.2) Output devices Output device 32 outputs spatial information In3 for target facility 100 created by creator 212. In this embodiment, the spatial information In3 for target facility 100 created by creator 212 is displayed on display unit 30 of mobile communication device 3 (see reference). Figure 4 That is, in this embodiment, the display unit 30 of the mobile communication device 3 corresponds to the output device 32 of the lighting design support system 1. Displaying the spatial information of the target facility 100 that has undergone lighting design on the display unit 30 of the mobile communication device 3 in this way allows the user to be provided with a visual image of the target facility 100 that has undergone lighting design.

[0034] It should be noted that the display unit 30, used as the output device 32, may directly display the third image Im3 read from the storage device 22, or display the third image Im3 that has undergone image processing according to at least one of the facility information In1 or the request information In2, as appropriate. Optionally, the display unit 30 may also display a composite image by superimposing one or more lighting devices 101 included in the third image Im3 onto the second image Im2, which is the request information In2 received by the input device 31.

[0035] (2.2.3) Control Unit Control unit 33 performs overall control of mobile communication device 3. Control unit 33 is electrically connected to each of input device 31, output device 32, communication unit 34, and storage device 35. Control unit 33 obtains request information In2, facility information In1, and modification information from input device 31. Control unit 33 controls output device 32 to output (display unit 30) spatial information In3 of the target facility 100 subject to lighting design. Control unit 33 controls communication unit 34 to communicate with communication unit 23 of server device 2. Control unit 33 controls storage device 35 to store information in or read information from storage device 35.

[0036] (2.2.4) Communication Unit Communication unit 34 includes a communication interface for establishing communication with server device 2. Communication unit 34 communicates with communication unit 23 of server device 2, for example, via a network (e.g., the Internet). Communication unit 34 communicates with communication unit 23 to receive spatial information In3 created by creator 212 through a lighting design process as spatial information of target facility 100. Additionally, communication unit 34 communicates with communication unit 23 to send request information In2, facility information In1, and modification information received by input device 31.

[0037] (2.2.5) Storage devices Storage device 35 includes a memory such as ROM, RAM, or EPROM. Storage device 35 can store, for example, spatial information In3 of a target facility 100 subject to lighting design.

[0038] (2.3) Sensing devices Sensing device 4 may include one or more sensors, for example, installed in target facility 100. The one or more sensors may include at least one of, for example, LiDAR or a camera. Sensing device 4 has communication capabilities. Sensing device 4 communicates with server device 2 to send sensing results obtained by the one or more sensors to server device 2. The sensing results sent from sensing device 4 to server device 2 include, for example, distance information used to determine the size of a corresponding space in target facility 100.

[0039] (3) Lighting design support methods Next, we will refer to Figure 5 A lighting design support method according to a first embodiment is described. The lighting design support method according to the first embodiment can be executed by, for example, a lighting design support system 1 according to the first embodiment. Note that the agent executing the lighting design support method is not limited to the lighting design support system 1.

[0040] The lighting design support method according to the first embodiment is used to support target facility 100 (reference). Figure 1 Lighting design. Lighting design support methods include, for example... Figure 5 The diagram shows the input step ST1, estimation step ST2, and creation step ST3. Input step ST1 includes accepting request information In2 (see reference). Figure 3 ) and facility information In1 (reference) Figure 2 The input is as follows: Request information In2 is information about the user's request. Facility information In1 is information about the target facility 100. Estimation step ST2 includes estimating the spatial structure of the target facility 100 based on the facility information In1 received in input step ST1. Creation step ST3 includes creating spatial information In3 for the target facility 100 (see reference) through a lighting design process based on the request information In2 received in input step ST1. Figure 4 More specifically, creation step ST3 includes reading from storage device 22 a plurality of first space structures 201 stored in storage device 22 (see reference). Figure 4 Any of the first spatial structures in ) as similar to the second spatial structure 202 (see reference) Figure 2 A similar structure to the target facility 100. The second spatial structure 202 is the spatial structure of the target facility 100. The creation step ST3 also includes creating spatial information In3 for the target facility 100 through a lighting design process based on structural information as information about a similar structure that has been read from the storage device 22. Each of the plurality of first spatial structures 201 is created by using one or more lighting fixtures 101 (see reference). Figure 4 The spatial structure is created during the lighting design process. In this case, the structural information includes image information about the first spatial structure 201 (similar structure) as described above. More specifically, the structural information includes data about the second image Im2 as image information.

[0041] In the lighting design support method according to the first embodiment, the creation step ST3 includes: reading from the storage device 22 any one of a plurality of first spatial structures 201 stored in the storage device 22 as a similar structure to the second spatial structure 202; and creating spatial information In3 based on structural information as information about the similar structure already read from the storage device 22. This allows for a reduction in the time spent creating spatial information In3 compared to simulating the lighting effect produced by lighting equipment. That is, the lighting design support method according to the first embodiment allows for a reduction in the time spent on lighting design for the target facility 100.

[0042] Figure 5This is a flowchart illustrating the process of a lighting design support method performed by a lighting design support system 1 according to a first embodiment. The lighting design support method includes... Figure 5 The corresponding processing steps ST1-ST4 are shown. Note that... Figure 5 The flowchart shown is merely an example. Flowcharts can include, in addition to, [other flowcharts]. Figure 5 One or more additional processing steps beyond the corresponding processing steps ST1-ST4 shown. Optionally, processing step ST4 may be omitted.

[0043] The lighting design support method according to the first embodiment will now be described in detail.

[0044] First, the lighting design support system 1 performs input step ST1. More specifically, the input device 31 of the lighting design support system 1 accepts the input of request information In2 and facility information In1 in input step ST1.

[0045] Next, the lighting design support system 1 performs estimation step ST2. More specifically, in estimation step ST2, the estimator 211 of the lighting design support system 1 estimates the second spatial structure 202, which is the spatial structure of the target facility 100, based on the facility information In1 received by the input device 31. Specifically, the estimator 211 estimates the second spatial structure 202, which is the spatial structure of the target facility 100, based on the facility information In1 received by the input device 31. Figure 3 The second spatial structure 202 is estimated using the data from the first image Im1 shown and the sensing results obtained by the sensing device 4.

[0046] The lighting design support system 1 also performs a creation step ST3. More specifically, in creation step ST3, the creator 212 of the lighting design support system 1 creates spatial information In3 for the target facility 100 through a lighting design process based on the facility information In1 and request information In2 already accepted by the input device 31. Specifically, in creation step ST3, the creator 212 reads any one of the multiple first spatial structures 201 stored in the storage device 22 as a similar structure to the second spatial structure 202 and associated with the request information In2. Then, in creation step ST3, the creator 212 creates the spatial information In3 based on structural information as information about the similar structure (e.g., data about the second image Im2 in this embodiment). In this case, the third image Im3, which is the spatial information In3, can be the first spatial structure 201 (similar structure) itself read from the storage device 22. Alternatively, the third image Im3 can also be generated based on the first image Im1 and the first spatial structure 201.

[0047] Then, the lighting design support system 1 executes output step ST4. More specifically, in output step ST4, the output device 32 of the lighting design support system 1 outputs the spatial information In3 created by the creator 212 through the lighting design process as spatial information In3 for the target facility 100. Specifically, the display unit 30, which serves as the output device 32, displays... Figure 4 The third image shown is Im3.

[0048] This allows a user viewing the third image Im3 displayed on the display unit 30 to use the input device 31 to modify the type, quantity, and position of the lighting equipment 101 included in the third image Im3.

[0049] (4) Advantages In the lighting design support system 1 according to the first embodiment, the creator 212 reads any one of a plurality of first spatial structures 201 stored in the storage device 22 as a similar structure to the second spatial structure 202. Then, based on structural information (e.g., data about the second image Im2 in this embodiment) which is information about the similar structure read from the storage device 22, the creator 212 creates spatial information In3 for the target facility 100 through a lighting design process. This allows for a reduction in the time spent creating the spatial information In3 compared to simulating the lighting effects produced by lighting equipment. That is, the lighting design support system 1 according to the first embodiment allows for a reduction in the time spent on lighting design for the target facility 100.

[0050] In the lighting design support system 1 according to this embodiment, the structural information includes image information about similar structures (e.g., data about a second image Im2 in this embodiment). The creator 212 then creates spatial information In3 based on the image information. This allows for lighting design based on the image information.

[0051] In the lighting design support system 1 according to the first embodiment, the facility information In1 includes sensing results obtained by the sensing device 4 installed in the target facility 100. This allows the estimator 211 to estimate the second spatial structure 202 more accurately.

[0052] The lighting design support system 1 according to the first embodiment also includes an output device 32 for outputting spatial information In3 of the target facility 100 undergoing lighting design. This allows the user to be notified of the spatial information In3 of the target facility 100 undergoing lighting design.

[0053] In the lighting design support system 1 according to the first embodiment, the input device 31 also accepts input to modify the spatial information In3 output by the output device 32. This allows modification of the spatial information In3 of the target facility 100 undergoing lighting design.

[0054] (5) Variation Note that the first embodiment described above is merely an exemplary embodiment among various embodiments of this disclosure and should not be construed as limiting. Rather, the first embodiment can be readily modified in various ways depending on design choices or any other factors without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Note that the same functionality as the lighting design support system 1 according to the first embodiment can also be implemented, for example, as a lighting design support method, a (computer) program, or a non-transitory storage medium storing a program thereon.

[0055] Next, variations of the first embodiment will be listed in turn. Note that the variations described below can be used in combination as appropriate.

[0056] (5.1) First variant The lighting design support system 1 according to the first variant will be described. In the following description, any constituent element of the lighting design support system 1 according to the first variant that has the same function as the corresponding constituent element of the lighting design support system 1 according to the first embodiment described above will be indicated by the same reference numerals as the corresponding constituent element, and its description is omitted here.

[0057] In the lighting design support system 1 according to the first variant, the storage device 22 stores each of the plurality of first spatial structures 201 in association with a first feature quantity. The first feature quantity is a feature quantity of each of the plurality of first spatial structures 201. Additionally, in the lighting design support system 1 according to the first variant, the estimator 211 not only estimates the second spatial structure 202 based on the facility information In1 already received by the input device 31, but also extracts a second feature quantity from the already estimated second spatial structure 202. The second feature quantity is a feature quantity of the second spatial structure 202. The creator 212 reads any one of the plurality of first spatial structures 201 stored in the storage device 22 as a similar structure to the second spatial structure 202. The first spatial structure 201 read as a similar structure is associated with a first feature quantity similar to the second feature quantity.

[0058] That is, in the lighting design support system 1 according to the first variant, the creator 212 compares the first feature quantity of the first spatial structure 201 with the second feature quantity of the second spatial structure 202, and extracts the first spatial structure 201 having a first feature quantity similar to the second feature quantity of the second spatial structure 202 as a similar structure. Therefore, compared with the case of comparing the entire first spatial structure 201 with the entire second spatial structure 202, the lighting design support system 1 according to the first variant allows for a reduction in the processing load on the creator 212.

[0059] Note that even when the estimator 211 extracts the second feature quantity as a feature quantity of the second spatial structure 202, the learned model can be used (described later).

[0060] (5.2) Second variant Reference Figure 6 The lighting design support system 1 according to the second variant is described below. In the following description, any constituent element of the lighting design support system 1 according to the second variant that has the same function as the corresponding constituent element of the lighting design support system 1 according to the first embodiment described above will be indicated by the same reference numerals as the corresponding constituent element, and its description is omitted here.

[0061] In the lighting design support system 1 according to the second variant, the creator 212 includes, as follows: Figure 6 The lighting effect generator 2121 is shown. The lighting effect generator 2121 creates spatial information In3 with lighting effects by using a learned model. That is, the spatial information In3 created by the lighting effect generator 2121 includes a first spatial structure 201 that has been read from the storage device 22 and lighting effects generated by one or more lighting devices 101 in the first spatial structure 201.

[0062] The learned model can be created, for example, through supervised learning. The training data used for supervised learning is data in which multiple first spatial structures 201 are associated with each other with the lighting effects produced by one or more lighting devices 101 placed in each of the multiple first spatial structures 201.

[0063] In this second variation, as an example, it is assumed that the machine learning algorithm is a neural network. However, the machine learning algorithm does not necessarily have to be a neural network, but can also be, for example, extreme gradient boosting (XGB) regression, random forest, decision tree, logistic regression, support vector machine (SVM), Naive Bayes classifier, or k-nearest neighbor method. Alternatively, the machine learning algorithm can also be, for example, a Gaussian mixture model (GMM) or k-means clustering.

[0064] The second variant of the lighting design support system 1 allows the creation of spatial information In3, which reflects the lighting effects produced by one or more lighting fixtures 101 placed in the first spatial structure 201.

[0065] According to the second variant, the learned model is a model generated through supervised learning. Alternatively, the learned model can also be generated through, for example, unsupervised learning. Examples of machine learning algorithms in this case include Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs), Variational Autoencoders (VAEs), Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs), Extended Models, and Static Diffusion.

[0066] (5.3) Third variant Reference Figure 7 The lighting design support system 1 according to the third variant is described below. In the following description, any constituent element of the lighting design support system 1 according to the third variant that has the same function as the corresponding constituent element of the lighting design support system 1 according to the first embodiment described above will be indicated by the same reference numerals as the corresponding constituent element, and its description is omitted here.

[0067] In the lighting design support system 1 according to the third variant, the output device 32 also outputs equipment information In4. Equipment information In4 is information about the lighting equipment 101 already used in the lighting design and forming part of the spatial information In3 of the target facility 100. That is, the spatial information In3 includes not only data about the third image Im3 but also equipment information In4. For example, equipment information In4 may include information such as the image, name, model, and specifications of the lighting equipment 101. In the lighting design support system 1 according to this third variant, the display unit 30 of the mobile communication device 3 also functions as the output device 32. Therefore, in the lighting design support system 1 according to the third variant, the display unit 30 of the mobile communication device 3 displays the third image Im3 and the fourth image Im4, such as... Figure 7 As shown. The third image Im3 is an image of the first spatial structure 201, which is a similar structure to the second spatial structure 202 of the target facility 100, read from the storage device 22. In the third image Im3, not only the first spatial structure 201 is shown, but also one or more lighting fixtures 101 are shown. The fourth image Im4 is an image including equipment information In4 of one or more lighting fixtures 101 placed in the first spatial structure 201 read from the storage device 22.

[0068] The lighting design support system 1 according to the third variant allows the user to be notified not only of the spatial information In3 of the target facility 100 undergoing lighting design, but also of the equipment information In4 of the lighting equipment 101 used for lighting design. In particular, as in the lighting design support system 1 according to the third variant, the spatial information In3 and the equipment information In4 are displayed on the display unit 30 of the mobile communication device 3, and the equipment information In4 is also notified to the user visually.

[0069] (5.4) Fourth variant Reference Figure 8The lighting design support system 1 according to the fourth variant is described below. In the following description, any constituent element of the lighting design support system 1 according to the fourth variant that has the same function as the corresponding constituent element of the lighting design support system 1 according to the first embodiment described above will be indicated by the same reference numerals as the corresponding constituent element, and its description is omitted here.

[0070] In the lighting design support system 1 according to the fourth variant, the spatial information In3 of the target facility 100 output by the output device 32 includes floor plan information In5, location information In6, and equipment information In4, such as... Figure 8 As shown. Floor plan information In5 is information about the floor plan of the target facility 100. Location information In6 is information about the location Po1 of one or more lighting fixtures 101 in the target facility 100. Equipment information In4 is information about one or more lighting fixtures 101. Equipment information In4 also includes information such as images, names, models, and specifications of the equipment 101 in the lighting design support system 1 according to the third variant. Note that in Figure 8 In the example shown, the third image Im3 is the image corresponding to the shaded portion of the fifth image Im5.

[0071] In the lighting design support system 1 according to this fourth variant, the display unit 30 of the mobile communication device 3 also functions as an output device 32. Therefore, in the lighting design support system 1 according to the fourth variant, the display unit 30 of the mobile communication device 3 displays a third image Im3, a fourth image Im4, and a fifth image Im5 as spatial information In3 of the target facility 100, such as... Figure 8 As shown. The third image Im3 is an image of a first spatial structure 201, which is a similar structure to the second spatial structure 202 of the target facility 100, read from the storage device 22. The fourth image Im4 is an image including equipment information In4 of one or more lighting devices 101 placed in the first spatial structure 201, which is a similar structure read from the storage device 22. The fifth image Im5 is an image including a floor plan of the target facility 100 that has undergone lighting design In5 and location information In6 of one or more lighting devices 101.

[0072] In the lighting design support system 1 according to the fourth variant, the spatial information In3 of the target facility 100 undergoing lighting design includes floor plan information In5, location information In6, and equipment information In4. This allows one or more lighting devices 101 to be installed more efficiently in the target facility 100.

[0073] (5.5) Fifth variant Reference Figures 9-12The lighting design support system 1 according to the fifth variant is described below. In the following description, any constituent element of the lighting design support system 1 according to the fifth variant that has the same function as the corresponding constituent element of the lighting design support system 1 according to the first embodiment described above will be indicated by the same reference numerals as the corresponding constituent element, and its description is omitted here.

[0074] In the lighting design support system 1 according to the fifth variant, the control unit 21 includes not only the estimator 211 and the creator 212, but also the corrector 214, such as Figure 9 As shown. The calibrator 214 performs a calibration process to correct the position of one or more lighting fixtures 101 in the target facility 100. More specifically, as a calibration process, the calibrator 214 corrects the position of one or more lighting fixtures 101 in the target facility 100 such that the position of one or more lighting fixtures 101 in the target facility 100 matches the position of one or more lighting fixtures 101 in a similar structure (first spatial structure 201) that has been read from the storage device 22.

[0075] In the lighting design support system 1 according to the fifth variant, the creator 212 reads from the storage device 22 any one of the multiple first spatial structures 201 stored in the storage device 22, as a second spatial structure 202 (see reference). Figure 10 A similar structure. Then, the creator 212 creates spatial information In3 (see reference) for the target facility 100 based on structural information as information about a first spatial structure 201, which is a similar structure, read from the storage device 22. Figure 12 In this embodiment, the structural information includes equipment information In4 (refer to) as information about one or more lighting devices 101 included in a similar structure. Figure 7 ), and location information In6 (reference) as information about the location of one or more lighting fixtures 101 in a similar structure. Figure 8 Then, based on the equipment information In4 and the location information In6, the creator 212 creates spatial information In3 for the target facility 100 by placing one or more lighting devices 101 in the second spatial structure 202. As described above, for example, the equipment information In4 includes information such as the image, name, model, and specifications of each lighting device 101.

[0076] Next, we will refer to Figures 10-12 Describes the lighting design support method based on the fifth variant.

[0077] First, the lighting design support system 1 executes input step ST1 (refer to...). Figure 5More specifically, the input device 31 of the lighting design support system 1 accepts input of request information In2 and facility information In1 in input step ST1. Facility information In1 may include, for example, information about... Figure 10 The data of the first image Im1 displayed on the display unit 30 of the mobile communication device 3 shown. Figure 10 In the example shown, a single first image Im1 generated by photographing a room (e.g., a living room) in the target facility 100 is displayed on the display unit 30. Alternatively, multiple first images Im1 may be displayed on the display unit 30. In this case, the multiple first images Im1 may be images generated by photographing a room in the target facility 100 multiple times from multiple different angles, or images generated by photographing multiple rooms in the target facility 100, as appropriate. The request information In2 may include, for example, data regarding a second image Im2 displayed on the display unit 30 of the mobile communication device 3, such as... Figure 11 As shown. The second image Im2 can be, for example, an image generated by photographing a space that has already been designed with lighting (lighting plan) according to the user's request.

[0078] Next, the lighting design support system 1 performs the estimation step ST2 (refer to...). Figure 5 More specifically, in estimation step ST2, the estimator 211 of the lighting design support system 1 estimates the second spatial structure 202 (refer to) as the spatial structure of the target facility 100 based on the facility information In1 received in input step ST1. Figure 10 Specifically, estimator 211 is based on information about... Figure 10 The data of the first image Im1 shown and the data from the sensing device 4 (reference) Figure 1 The sensing results obtained are used to estimate the second spatial structure 202.

[0079] Lighting Design Support System 1 also performs creation step ST3 (see reference). Figure 5 More specifically, in creation step ST3, the creator 212 of the lighting design support system 1 creates spatial information In3 for the target facility 100 based on the facility information In1 and request information In2 received by the input device 31, through the lighting design process. Specifically, in creation step ST3, the creator 212 reads any one of the multiple first spatial structures 201 stored in the storage device 22 as a similar structure to the second spatial structure 202 and associated with the request information In2. Then, in creation step ST3, the creator 212 creates the spatial information In3 based on the structural information as information about the similar structure (see reference). Figure 12In this processing step, the creator 212 extracts the equipment information In4 (see reference) included in the image information of the first spatial structure 201, which is a similar structure already read from the storage device 22. Figure 7 ) and location information In6 (reference) Figure 8 Subsequently, the creator 212 creates spatial information In3, in which the lighting equipment 101 associated with the equipment information In4 is placed at the location associated with the location information In6 in the second spatial structure 202, as estimated by the estimator 211.

[0080] Finally, the lighting design support system 1 executes output step ST4 (see reference). Figure 5 More specifically, in output step ST4, the output device 32 of the lighting design support system 1 outputs the spatial information In3 created by the creator 212 through the lighting design process as spatial information In3 for the target facility 100. Specifically, the display unit 30, which serves as the output device 32, displays... Figure 12 The third image shown is Im3.

[0081] The lighting design support system 1 and lighting design support method according to the fifth variant, as well as the lighting design support system 1 and lighting design support method according to the first embodiment, also allow for a reduction in the time spent on lighting design for the target facility 100. Furthermore, the lighting design support system 1 and lighting design support method according to the fifth variant also allow for lighting design based on equipment information In4 and location information In6.

[0082] In this context, the creator 212 described above can also be implemented, for example, as a generative AI. Note that in the lighting design support system 1 according to the fifth variant, a plurality of first spatial structures 201 are stored in the storage device 22 of the server device 2, and lighting design is performed using these plurality of first spatial structures 201, wherein each of the plurality of first spatial structures 201 is a spatial structure created by a lighting design process using one or more lighting fixtures 101. Therefore, even using a general generative AI, it is difficult to perform the functions of the creator 212.

[0083] (5.6) Other variations Next, other variations will be listed in turn.

[0084] The lighting design support system 1 according to this disclosure, or the subject performing the lighting design support method according to this disclosure, includes a computer system. The computer system includes a processor and memory as its main hardware components. The computer system performs the functions of the lighting design support system 1 according to this disclosure, or serves as the subject performing the lighting design support method according to this disclosure, by causing the processor to execute a program stored in the memory of the computer system. The program may be pre-stored in the memory of the computer system. Alternatively, the program may also be downloaded via a telecommunications line, or distributed after being stored on some non-transitory storage medium such as a memory card, optical disc, or hard disk drive, any of which can be read by the computer system. The processor of the computer system may consist of one or more electronic circuits including semiconductor integrated circuits (ICs) or large-scale integrated circuits (LSIs). As used herein, "integrated circuit" such as IC or LSI is referred to by different names depending on its degree of integration. Examples of integrated circuits such as ICs or LSIs include integrated circuits referred to as "system LSIs," "very large-scale integrated circuits (VLSIs)," and "extremely large-scale integrated circuits (ULSIs)." Alternatively, a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) programmed after LSI fabrication or a reconfigurable logic device that allows reconfiguration of connections or circuitry within the LSI can be used as the processor. These electronic circuits can be integrated on a single chip or distributed across multiple chips, depending on the application. These multiple chips can be clustered in a single device or distributed across multiple devices without limitation. As used herein, "computer system" includes a microcontroller comprising one or more processors and one or more memories. Therefore, a microcontroller can also be implemented as a single or multiple electronic circuits comprising semiconductor integrated circuits or large-scale integrated circuits.

[0085] In the above embodiments, multiple functions of the lighting design support system 1 are integrated together in a single housing. However, this is not a necessary configuration for the lighting design support system 1. Alternatively, the components of the lighting design support system 1 can be distributed in multiple different housings. Or, for example, at least some functions of the lighting design support system 1 (e.g., the functions of the control unit 21 of the server device 2) can be implemented as a cloud computing system.

[0086] Conversely, in the first embodiment, at least some functions of the lighting design support system 1, which are distributed across multiple devices, can be aggregated within a single housing. For example, some functions of the lighting design support system 1, distributed across server device 2 and mobile communication device 3, can be aggregated within a single housing.

[0087] In the first embodiment described above, the lighting design support system 1 includes a sensing device 4. Alternatively, the lighting design support system 1 may not include the sensing device 4. That is, the sensing device 4 can be omitted. In this case, the estimator 211 will estimate the three-dimensional spatial structure based on the data about the first image Im1 already received by the input device 31. This allows for simplified processing and reduces the processing load on the estimator 211 compared to estimating the three-dimensional spatial structure based on the data about the first image Im1 and the three-dimensional spatial information provided by the sensing device 4.

[0088] In the first embodiment described above, the lighting design support system 1 includes an output device 32. Alternatively, the lighting design support system 1 may not include the output device 32. That is, the output device 32 may be omitted.

[0089] At least some of the functions of server device 2 can be performed by a cloud computing system.

[0090] In the first embodiment described above, the facility information In1 includes data about the first image Im1. However, the facility information In1 is not limited to data about the first image Im1, and may also include, for example, drawing data (which may be data about handwritten drawings).

[0091] In the first embodiment described above, the third image Im3 is displayed on the display unit 30 as spatial information In3 of the target facility 100. Alternatively, for example, information about the first spatial structure 201 stored in the storage device 22 may itself be displayed on the display unit 30.

[0092] In the first embodiment described above, input request information In2 allows the user to select his or her desired facility from a second image Im2 displayed on the display unit 30 of the mobile communication device 3. Alternatively, the user can also select his or her desired facility from a scene or image represented by characters.

[0093] In the first embodiment described above, the output device 32 is the display unit 30 of the mobile communication device 3, and the spatial information In3 is displayed on the display unit 30. However, this is merely an example and should not be construed as limiting. Alternatively, the output device 32 may output the spatial information In3 to, for example, a system or device separately from the lighting design support system 1. The output device 32 may output both the equipment information In4 and the spatial information In3. Optionally, the creator 212 may also create at least one of a quotation and a purchase order based on the spatial information In3 and the equipment information In4.

[0094] Furthermore, spatial information In3 can be output to multiple output devices. For example, spatial information In3 and equipment information In4 can be output to an additional system set up separately from mobile communication device 3, and only the third image Im3 of spatial information In3 can be output to display unit 30, i.e., displayed on display unit 30. The additional system can be, for example, a system set up for a contractor who will install one or more lighting fixtures 101 in target facility 100. This allows the user to view the image (third image Im3) displayed on display unit 30 of mobile communication device 3, and also allows the contractor to obtain detailed lighting design information. In this case, the estimated cost can be output to display unit 30 along with the third image Im3, i.e., displayed on display unit 30.

[0095] (Second Embodiment) (1) Overview First, refer to Figure 13 An overview of the lighting design support system 1A according to the second embodiment is described.

[0096] The lighting design support system 1A according to the second embodiment is a system for supporting the lighting design of the target facility 100 (see reference). Figure 14 The target facility 100 can be, for example, a residential facility (e.g., each residential unit in a single-family home or a multi-family home) or a non-residential facility (e.g., an office, shop, school, or care facility). In this embodiment, as an example, it is assumed that the target facility 100 is each residential unit or each room in a multi-family home. As used herein, the term "lighting design" refers to selecting one or more lighting fixtures to be installed in the target facility 100, placing one or more lighting fixtures in the target facility 100, and using one or more lighting fixtures to set the illuminance.

[0097] The lighting design support system 1A according to the second embodiment includes an input device 31, a first storage device (storage device) 221, and a creator 213. The input device 31 receives facility information In1 (see reference). Figure 14 ) and equipment information In2 (reference) Figure 15 The input for Facility Information In1 is about the target facility 100 (reference). Figure 14 Information regarding the equipment (In2) is about the first lighting equipment 101 (reference). Figure 15 The first storage device 221 stores multiple first spatial structures 201 (reference). Figure 17BEach of the multiple first spatial structures 201 is a spatial structure created through a lighting design process using one or more second lighting fixtures. Creator 213 creates spatial information In3 (reference) for target facility 100 through the lighting design process. Figure 16 More specifically, the creator 213 reads any one of the plurality of first spatial structures 201 stored in the first storage device 221, as a second spatial structure 202 (see reference). Figure 17A The second spatial structure 202 is the spatial structure of the target facility 100. Furthermore, the creator 213 extracts any one of the one or more second lighting devices included in the similar structure as a similar lighting device to the first lighting device 101. Then, based on the position information of the similar lighting device in the similar structure, the creator 213 creates spatial information In3 by placing the first lighting device 101 in the second spatial structure 202.

[0098] In the lighting design support system 1A according to the second embodiment, the creator 212 reads any one of the plurality of first spatial structures 201 stored in the first storage device 221 as a similar structure to the second spatial structure 202. Furthermore, the creator 213 extracts any one of one or more second lighting devices included in the similar structure as a similar lighting device to the first lighting device 101. Then, based on the position information of the similar lighting device in the similar structure, the creator 213 creates spatial information In3 by placing the first lighting device 101 in the second spatial structure 202. This allows for a reduction in the time spent creating the spatial information In3 compared to simulating the lighting effect produced by the lighting device. That is, the lighting design support system 1A according to the second embodiment allows for a reduction in the time spent on lighting design for the target facility 100. Furthermore, the lighting design support system 1A according to the second embodiment also allows for lighting design for the target facility 100 using the first lighting device 101. As used herein, “first lighting equipment 101” includes at least one of the lighting equipment used by the user in a facility such as a multi-family residential house where he or she currently resides (i.e., what Japan calls “mansion”) or the lighting equipment that the user plans to use in the target facility 100.

[0099] (2) Details Next, we will refer to Figures 13-16 The corresponding components of the lighting design support system 1A according to the second embodiment are described.

[0100] The lighting design support system 1A according to the second embodiment is a system for supporting the lighting design of the target facility 100 as described above (see reference). Figure 14 The lighting design support system 1A includes, for example: Figure 13 The server device 2A and mobile communication device 3 are shown. Mobile communication device 3 can be, for example, a user's own smartphone, desktop computer, or personal computer. In this embodiment, it is assumed that mobile communication device 3 is a desktop computer as an example (see reference). Figures 14-16 ).

[0101] (2.1) Server equipment Server device 2A can be implemented as, for example, a computer system including one or more processors and one or more memories. That is, the computer system functions as server device 2A by having one or more processors execute a program stored in one or more memories of the computer system. In this embodiment, the program is pre-stored in the computer system's memory. Alternatively, the program may be downloaded via a telecommunications line such as the Internet, or distributed after it has been stored on a non-transitory storage medium such as a memory card.

[0102] like Figure 13 As shown, server device 2A includes control unit 21A, storage device 22A and communication unit 23.

[0103] (2.1.1) Control Unit Control unit 21A provides overall control of server device 2A. Control unit 21A is electrically connected to each of storage device 22A and communication unit 23. Control unit 21A controls storage device 22A to store and retrieve information from storage device 22A. Furthermore, control unit 21A controls communication unit 23 to enable communication between communication unit 23 and mobile communication device 3. Control unit 21A includes creator 213.

[0104] Creator 213 creates lighting for target facility 100 (reference) through a lighting design process. Figure 14 Spatial information In3 (reference) Figure 16 More specifically, the creator 213 reads from the first storage device 221 a plurality of first space structures 201 stored in the first storage device 221 (see reference). Figure 17B Any of the first spatial structures in ) as similar to the second spatial structure 202 (see reference) Figure 17AA similar structure to the target facility 100. The second spatial structure 202 is the spatial structure of the target facility 100. Furthermore, the creator 213 extracts any one of the one or more second lighting fixtures included in the similar structure from the similar structure already read from the first storage device 221, as a similar to the first lighting fixture 101 (see reference). Figure 15 Similar lighting equipment. Then, the creator 213 creates spatial information In3 by placing the first lighting equipment 101 in the second spatial structure 202, based on the position information of the similar lighting equipment in the similar structure. In this case, the position Po4 of the first lighting equipment 101 in the second spatial structure 202 (refer to...) Figure 17C The position of similar lighting equipment in a similar structure Po3 (reference) Figure 17B )same.

[0105] In this case, creator 213 preferably performs at least one of a first operation or a second operation based on the request information received by input device 31. As used herein, "first operation" refers to the operation of reading a similar structure from first storage device 221. "Second operation" refers to the operation of retrieving a similar lighting device from a similar structure.

[0106] Furthermore, the creator 213 preferably reads from the first storage device 221 any one of the plurality of first spatial structures 201 stored in the first storage device 221 that most closely matches the desired information. The desired information includes information about parameters that the user desires the target facility 100 to have. Examples of parameters include the age of the target facility 100, its floor plan, and its total building area. This allows the extraction of the first spatial structure 201 that best matches the user's desire.

[0107] For example, the spatial information In3 created by creator 213 includes information such as Figure 16 The data shown in the third image Im13. The third image Im13 is an image of a lighting design performed in a second spatial structure 202, which is the spatial structure of the target facility 100, by placing a first lighting fixture 101 at the same position Po4 as similar lighting fixtures in a similar structure.

[0108] Optionally, the creator 213 can also be configured to calculate at least one of an initial setup fee or a maintenance fee. As used herein, an "initial setup fee" refers to the amount payable by the user when installing the first lighting fixture 101 in the target facility 100, and may include, for example, the cost of purchasing the first lighting fixture 101 and construction costs. As used herein, a "maintenance fee" refers to the amount payable by the user for maintaining the first lighting fixture 101 already installed in the target facility 100, and may include, for example, electricity costs (power consumption), maintenance costs, and cleaning costs.

[0109] Furthermore, if the lighting design of the target facility 100 has not been completed using only the first lighting fixture 101, the creator 213 may also be configured to use a third lighting fixture for lighting design. As used herein, "third lighting fixture" refers to additional lighting fixtures other than the first lighting fixture 101, and may be, for example, new lighting fixtures that have never been used by the user. As used herein, the expression "if the lighting design of the target facility 100 has not been completed" refers to at least one of the following: no first lighting fixture 101 has been placed in the second space structure 202; the number of first lighting fixtures 101 placed in the second space structure 202 is less than the number of similar lighting fixtures placed in a similar structure read from the first storage device 221; or the illuminance of (one or more) first lighting fixtures 101 placed in the second space structure 202 is insufficient.

[0110] Optionally, the creator 213 can also be configured to calculate at least one of an initial setup fee or a maintenance fee when using third lighting equipment for lighting design. As used herein, "initial setup fee" refers to the amount a user pays when purchasing and installing the third lighting equipment in the target facility 100. As used herein, "maintenance fee" refers to the amount a user pays for maintaining the third lighting equipment already installed in the target facility 100. In this case, the input device 31 is preferably configured to further accept the unit purchase price of the third lighting equipment.

[0111] (2.1.2) Storage devices Storage device 22 includes a memory, such as read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), or electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM). Storage device 22 includes a first storage device 221, a second storage device 222, and a third storage device 223, such as... Figure 13 As shown.

[0112] The first storage device 221 stores a plurality of first spatial structures 201. Each of the plurality of first spatial structures 201 is a spatial structure created through a lighting design process using one or more second lighting fixtures. That is, each of the plurality of first spatial structures 201 is a spatial structure that has undergone lighting design by placing one or more second lighting fixtures.

[0113] The second storage device 222 differs from the first storage device 221. The second storage device 222 stores multiple third space structures. Each of the multiple third space structures is a potential candidate space structure for the target facility 100.

[0114] The third storage device 223 stores equipment information about a plurality of lighting devices, including the first lighting device 101. More specifically, the third storage device 223 stores the product numbers of the plurality of lighting devices in association with their respective specifications.

[0115] (2.1.3) Communication Unit Communication unit 23 includes a communication interface for establishing communication with mobile communication device 3. Communication unit 23 communicates with communication unit 34 of mobile communication device 3, for example, via a network (e.g., the Internet). Communication unit 23 communicates with communication unit 34 to receive (acquire) facility information In1 (refer to) that has been accepted by input device 31 of mobile communication device 3. Figure 14 ) and equipment information In2 (reference) Figure 15 Additionally, communication unit 23 communicates with communication unit 34 to transmit spatial information In3 (see reference) created by creator 212. Figure 16 ) is sent to mobile communication device 3.

[0116] As used herein, facility information In1 is information about target facility 100. More specifically, such as Figure 14 As shown, the facility information In1 includes, for example, data regarding the first image Im1 displayed on the display unit 30 of the mobile communication device 3. Figure 14 In the example shown, a single first image Im1 generated by photographing a room (e.g., a living room) in the target facility 100 is displayed on the display unit 30. Alternatively, multiple first images Im1 may be displayed on the display unit 30. In this case, the multiple first images Im1 may be images generated by photographing a room in the target facility 100 multiple times from multiple different angles, or they may be images generated by photographing multiple rooms in the target facility 100, as appropriate. On the other hand, the equipment information In2 is information about the first lighting equipment 101. The equipment information In2 may include at least one of, for example, information about the product number and performance of the first lighting equipment 101 or image information about the first lighting equipment 101.

[0117] (2.2) Mobile communication equipment The mobile communication device 3 can be, for example, a user-owned tablet computer as described above. The mobile communication device 3 can be implemented as, for example, a computer system including one or more processors and one or more memories. That is, the computer system functions as the mobile communication device 3 by having one or more processors execute a program stored in one or more memories of the computer system. In this embodiment, the program is pre-stored in the computer system's memory. Alternatively, the program can also be downloaded via a telecommunications line such as the Internet, or distributed after it has been stored in a non-transitory storage medium such as a memory card.

[0118] like Figure 13 As shown, the mobile communication device 3 includes an input device 31, an output device 32, a control unit 33, a communication unit 34, and a storage device 35.

[0119] (2.2.1) Input devices Input device 31 receives facility information In1 (reference) Figure 14 ) and equipment information In2 (reference) Figure 15 The input device 31 is the input device for the target facility 100. As described above, facility information In1 is information about the target facility 100, and equipment information In2 is information about the first lighting equipment 101. In this embodiment, the mobile communication device 3 is a tablet computer, and therefore, the input device 31 is implemented as the touch screen panel of the tablet computer.

[0120] Optionally, input device 31 can also be configured to further accept input of desired information. As described above, desired information includes information about parameters that the user desires the target facility 100 to have. Examples of parameters include the age of the target facility 100, its floor plan, and its total building area.

[0121] Alternatively, input device 31 may also be configured to further accept input of request information. As used herein, "request information" refers to information about a user request. Request information may include, for example, a request for a lighting space or a request for lighting equipment to be used. A request for a lighting space may be selected, for example, from multiple virtual lighting space images displayed on display unit 30 of mobile communication device 3, from multiple options, or through free commenting. A request for lighting equipment may be selected, for example, from multiple virtual lighting space images displayed on display unit 30 of mobile communication device 3 or from the product number of the lighting equipment entered.

[0122] Alternatively, input device 31 may also be configured to further accept a similarity threshold as input when creator 213 performs at least one of the first or second operations. As used herein, similarity for the first operation refers to the similarity between each of the plurality of first spatial structures 201 and the second spatial structure 202. Similarity for the second operation, as used herein, refers to the similarity between one or more second lighting fixtures in similar structures and the first lighting fixture 101. For example, if the number of first lighting fixtures 101 in the spatial information In3 created by creator 213 is small, the similarity threshold is lowered for at least one of the first or second operations. This can increase the number of first lighting fixtures 101 in the spatial information In3 created by creator 213.

[0123] Alternatively, input device 31 can also be configured to further accept an input of a maximum value for the initial setup fee that a user would pay when installing the first lighting fixture 101 in the target facility 100. This allows setting a maximum value for the initial setup fee that would be paid when installing the first lighting fixture 101 in the target facility 100. In this case, the maximum value can be a specific amount or a range of amounts. Alternatively, the maximum value can also be selected from multiple options such as advanced and standard options. In this case, creator 213 preferably changes the similarity threshold or the first lighting fixture 101 for at least one of the first or second operations to avoid exceeding the maximum value for the initial setup fee accepted by input device 31.

[0124] Alternatively, input device 31 can be configured to accept further input to modify spatial information In3 after the lighting design has been completed. Input device 31 can accept changes to the product number (or type) of the first lighting fixture 101 included in spatial information In3, or changes to the position of the first lighting fixture 101 in the second spatial structure 202.

[0125] (2.2.2) Output devices Output device 32 outputs spatial information In3 (see) created by creator 213 of server device 2A for target facility 100, which is part of the lighting design process. Figure 16 In this embodiment, as an example, spatial information In3 includes information about a third image Im3 displayed on the display unit 30 of the mobile communication device 3 (see [link to documentation]). Figure 16 The data is as follows: In this embodiment, the display unit 30 of the mobile communication device 3 corresponds to the output device 32 of the lighting design support system 1.

[0126] Optionally, the output device 32 can also be configured to further output maintenance information. The maintenance information is based on at least one of, for example, the manufacturing date and service life of the first lighting fixture 101, or on information about the degree of degradation of the first lighting fixture 101 over time estimated from an image covering the first lighting fixture 101 (e.g., a third image Im3). For example, if the service life of the first lighting fixture 101 is equal to or greater than a first predetermined value, or if the degree of degradation obtained based on the estimated degree of degradation of the first lighting fixture 101 over time is equal to or greater than a second predetermined value, then the output device 32 outputs maintenance information suggesting that the user repair the first lighting fixture 101 or replace its components.

[0127] Optionally, output device 32 can also be configured to further output recommendation information created by creator 213. The recommendation information suggests that the user use a third lighting fixture different from the first lighting fixture for lighting design. The third lighting fixture used herein could be, for example, a novel lighting fixture that the user has never used before. Creator 213 creates recommendation information if the initial setup and maintenance costs of using the third lighting fixture for lighting design are less than the initial setup and maintenance costs of using the first lighting fixture 101 for lighting design.

[0128] Optionally, output device 32 can also be configured to further output disposal and sales information. Disposal and sales information is information about the disposal methods and costs of unused lighting fixtures 101, or the sales methods and purchase costs of unused lighting fixtures 101. As used herein, “unused lighting fixtures 101” refers to the first lighting fixture 101 that was not used when the lighting design of target facility 100 was completed. If any unused lighting fixtures 101 exist when the lighting design of target facility 100 is completed, creator 213 creates disposal and sales information. It should be noted that, since waste disposal methods vary from autonomous region to autonomous region, input device 31 is preferably configured to further accept input such as physical addresses.

[0129] (2.2.3) Control Unit Control unit 33 performs overall control of mobile communication device 3. Control unit 33 is electrically connected to each of the input device 31, output device 32, communication unit 34, and storage device 35. Control unit 33 acquires various types of information from input device 31. Control unit 33 controls output device 32 to output various types of information. Control unit 33 controls communication unit 34 to communicate with communication unit 23 of server device 2A. Control unit 33 controls storage device 35 to store information in storage device 35 or to read information from storage device 35.

[0130] (2.2.4) Communication Unit Communication unit 34 includes a communication interface for establishing communication with server device 2A. Communication unit 34 communicates with communication unit 23 of server device 2A, for example, via a network (e.g., the Internet). Communication unit 34 communicates with communication unit 23 to receive various types of information, including spatial information In3 (reference 3) created by creator 213 through a lighting design process. Figure 16 The spatial information In3 is used as the target facility 100. In addition, the communication unit 34 communicates with the communication unit 23 to send various types of information received by the input device 31 to the server device 2A.

[0131] (2.2.5) Storage devices Storage device 35 includes a memory such as ROM, RAM, or EPROM. Storage device 35 may, for example, store spatial information In3 of the target facility 100, created by the creator 213 of server device 2A through a lighting design process. Optionally, storage device 35 may also be configured to store the aforementioned maintenance information, recommendation information, and disposal and sales information.

[0132] (3) Creator operations Next, we will refer to Figures 17A-17C Describe how Creator 213 operates.

[0133] First, the creator 213 obtains the facility information In1 (see reference) received by the input device 31. Figure 14 In this embodiment, facility information In1 includes, for example, Figure 17A The second space structure 202 of the target facility 100 shown.

[0134] Next, the creator 213 reads any one of the multiple first space structures 201 stored in the first storage device 221 from the first storage device 221, as a similar structure to the second space structure 202 included in the facility information In1 (see reference). Figure 17B ).exist Figure 17B In the diagram, positions Po1-Po3 indicate that three second lighting devices are arranged in their respective positions within a first spatial structure 201, which is a similar structure and has been read from the first storage device 221.

[0135] Furthermore, the creator 213 also extracts any one of the three second lighting devices included in the similar structure as a second lighting device similar to the first lighting device 101, i.e., a similar lighting device. Figure 17B In the example shown, the similar lighting device is a second lighting device placed at position Po3 in the first spatial structure 201, which is a similar structure.

[0136] Then, based on the positional information of similar lighting equipment in a similar structure, creator 213 creates spatial information In3 (see reference) by placing the first lighting equipment 101 in the second spatial structure 202. Figure 16 ).exist Figure 17C In the example shown, the first lighting device 101 is placed in the second spatial structure 202 at position Po4, corresponding to position Po3 where a similar lighting device is placed.

[0137] (4) Lighting design support methods Next, we will refer to Figure 18 A lighting design support method according to a second embodiment is described. The lighting design support method according to the second embodiment can be executed by, for example, a lighting design support system 1A according to the second embodiment.

[0138] The lighting design support method according to the second embodiment is used to support target facility 100 (reference). Figure 14 Lighting design. Lighting design support methods include, for example... Figure 18 The input step ST11 and creation step ST12 are shown. Input step ST11 includes receiving facility information In1 (see reference). Figure 14 ) and equipment information In2 (reference) Figure 15 The input is as follows: Facility Information In1 is information about the target facility 100. Equipment Information In2 is information about the first lighting equipment 101 (reference). Figure 15 Information on the creation of ST12 includes creating spatial information for target facility 100 through the lighting design process (see In3). Figure 16 More specifically, creation step ST12 includes reading from the first storage device (storage device) 221 a plurality of first space structures 201 stored in the first storage device 221 (see reference). Figure 17B Any of the first spatial structures in ) as similar to the second spatial structure 202 (see reference) Figure 17A The second spatial structure 202 is the spatial structure of the target facility 100. Creation step ST12 also includes extracting any one of the one or more second lighting fixtures included in the similar structure from the similar structure already read from the first storage device 221, as a similar lighting fixture to the first lighting fixture 101. Creation step ST3 also includes creating spatial information In3 by placing the first lighting fixture 101 in the second spatial structure 202 based on the location information of the similar lighting fixture in the similar structure. Each of the multiple first spatial structures 201 is a spatial structure created through a lighting design process that has already used one or more second lighting fixtures.

[0139] In the lighting design support method according to the second embodiment, the creation step ST12 includes reading from the first storage device 221 any one of a plurality of first spatial structures 201 stored in the first storage device 221 as a similar structure to the second spatial structure 202. The creation step ST12 also includes extracting from the similar structure any one of one or more second lighting devices included in the similar structure as a similar lighting device to the first lighting device 101. The creation step ST12 further includes creating spatial information In3 by placing the first lighting device 101 in the second spatial structure 202 based on the position information of the similar lighting device in the similar structure. This allows for a reduction in the time spent creating the spatial information In3 compared to simulating the lighting effect produced by the lighting device. That is, the lighting design support method according to the second embodiment allows for a reduction in the time spent on lighting design for the target facility 100. Furthermore, the lighting design support method according to the second embodiment also allows for lighting design for the target facility 100 using the first lighting device 101.

[0140] Figure 18 This is a flowchart illustrating the process of a lighting design support method performed by a lighting design support system 1 according to a second embodiment. The lighting design support method includes... Figure 18 The corresponding processing steps ST11-ST13 are shown below. Note that... Figure 18 The flowchart shown is merely an example. Flowcharts can include, in addition to, [other flowcharts]. Figure 18 One or more additional processing steps beyond the corresponding processing steps ST11-ST13 shown. Optionally, processing step ST13 may be omitted.

[0141] Next, the lighting design support method according to the second embodiment will be described in detail.

[0142] First, the lighting design support system 1A executes input step ST11. More specifically, in input step ST11, the input device 31 of the lighting design support system 1A receives facility information In1 (see reference). Figure 14 ) and equipment information In2 (reference) Figure 15 Input of ).

[0143] The lighting design support system 1A also performs a creation step ST12. More specifically, in creation step ST12, the creator 213 of the lighting design support system 1A creates spatial information In3 (see reference) for the target facility 100 through the lighting design process. Figure 16 ).

[0144] Then, the lighting design support system 1A executes output step ST13. More specifically, in output step ST13, the output device 32 of the lighting design support system 1A outputs the spatial information In3 created by the creator 213 through the lighting design process as spatial information In3 for the target facility 100. In this embodiment, the display unit 30, which serves as the output device 32, displays the third image Im3 as the spatial information In3 of the target facility 100 (see reference). Figure 16 ).

[0145] This allows a user viewing the third image Im3 displayed on the display unit 30 to use the input device 31 to modify the type, quantity, and position of the first lighting equipment 101 included in the third image Im3.

[0146] (5) Advantages In the lighting design support system 1A according to the second embodiment, the creator 212 reads any one of the plurality of first spatial structures 201 stored in the first storage device 221 as a similar structure to the second spatial structure 202. Furthermore, the creator 213 extracts any one of one or more second lighting devices included in the similar structure as a similar lighting device to the first lighting device 101. Then, based on the position information of the similar lighting device in the similar structure, the creator 213 creates spatial information In3 by placing the first lighting device 101 in the second spatial structure 202. This allows for a reduction in the time spent creating the spatial information In3 compared to simulating the lighting effect produced by the lighting device. That is, the lighting design support system 1A according to the second embodiment allows for a reduction in the time spent on lighting design for the target facility 100. Furthermore, the lighting design support system 1A according to the third embodiment also allows for lighting design for the target facility 100 using the first lighting device 101.

[0147] In the lighting design support system 1A according to the second embodiment, the creator 213 reads from the first storage device 221 any one of a plurality of first spatial structures 201 stored in the first storage device 221 that most closely matches the desired information. This allows the extraction of the first spatial structure 201 that best matches the user's desire.

[0148] In the lighting design support system 1A according to the second embodiment, the equipment information In2 includes at least one of information regarding the product number and performance of the first lighting equipment 101 or image information of the first lighting equipment 101. This allows for the acquisition of information regarding the product number and performance of the first lighting equipment 101.

[0149] In the lighting design support system 1A according to the second embodiment, the creator 213 calculates at least one of the initial setup fee or the maintenance fee for installing the first lighting fixture 101. This allows the user to be notified of at least one of the initial setup fee or the maintenance fee for the first lighting fixture 101.

[0150] In the lighting design support system 1A according to the second embodiment, if the lighting design of the target facility 100 cannot be completed using only the first lighting equipment 101, the creator 213 uses a third lighting equipment to perform the lighting design. Even if the lighting design of the target facility 100 cannot be completed using only the first lighting equipment 101, this allows the lighting design of the target facility 100 to be completed by using a third lighting equipment.

[0151] In the lighting design support system 1A according to the second embodiment, the creator 213 calculates at least one of the initial setup fee for installing the third lighting fixture or the maintenance fee for maintaining the third lighting fixture. This allows the user to be notified of at least one of the initial setup fee or the maintenance fee for the third lighting fixture.

[0152] In the lighting design support system 1A according to the second embodiment, the creator 213 performs at least one of a first operation to read a similar structure from a first storage device 221 or a second operation to extract similar lighting equipment from a similar structure, based on request information received by the input device 31. This allows spatial information In3 to be created while reflecting the user's request.

[0153] In the lighting design support system 1A according to the second embodiment, when the creator 213 performs at least one of the first operation or the second operation, the input device 31 also accepts input for changing the similarity threshold. This allows the similarity threshold to be changed when the creator 213 performs at least one of the first operation or the second operation.

[0154] In the lighting design support system 1A according to the second embodiment, the input device 31 also accepts an input of an upper limit value of the initial setup fee that the user must pay when the first lighting fixture 101 is installed in the target facility 100. This makes it possible to set an upper limit value of the initial setup fee that the user must pay when the first lighting fixture 101 is installed in the target facility 100.

[0155] In the lighting design support system 1A according to the second embodiment, the input device 31 also accepts input for modifying the spatial information In3 after the lighting design has been performed. This allows the spatial information In3 to be modified after the lighting design has been performed.

[0156] The lighting design support system 1A according to the second embodiment also includes an output device 32 for outputting maintenance information. This allows maintenance information to be notified to the user.

[0157] In the lighting design support system 1A according to the second embodiment, the output device 32 also outputs recommendation information created by the creator 213. This allows for the recommendation of a third lighting fixture that is more cost-effective than the first lighting fixture 101 to the user.

[0158] In the lighting design support system 1A according to the second embodiment, the output device 32 also outputs disposal and sales information created by the creator 213. This allows information to be provided to the user regarding the disposal and sale of unnecessary first lighting equipment 101.

[0159] (6) Variation Note that the second embodiment described above is merely an exemplary embodiment among the various embodiments of this disclosure and should not be construed as limiting. Rather, the second embodiment can be readily modified in various ways depending on design choices or any other factors without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Note that the same functionality as the lighting design support system 1A according to the second embodiment can also be implemented, for example, as a lighting design support method, a (computer) program, or a non-transitory storage medium storing a program thereon.

[0160] Next, variations of the second embodiment will be listed in turn. Note that the variations described below can be used in combination as appropriate.

[0161] (6.1) First variant The lighting design support system 1A according to the first variant will be described. In the following description, any constituent element of the lighting design support system 1A according to the first variant that has the same function as the corresponding constituent element of the lighting design support system 1A according to the second embodiment described above will be indicated by the same reference numerals as the corresponding constituent element, and its description is omitted here.

[0162] In the lighting design support system 1A according to the first variant, the creator 213 includes, as follows: Figure 19 Selector 2131 is shown. When performing lighting design for target facility 100, selector 2131 selects either a first lighting design or a second lighting design. As used herein, "first lighting design" refers to the lighting design using the first lighting fixture 101. "Second lighting design" refers to the optimal lighting design for target facility 100.

[0163] For example, if the priority of the first lighting design is 8 and the priority of the second lighting design is 6, then selector 2131 selects the first lighting design. Similarly, if the priority of the first lighting design is 6 and the priority of the second lighting design is 8, then selector 2131 selects the second lighting design. Creator 213 executes either the first or second lighting design based on the selection made by selector 2131.

[0164] Alternatively, selector 2131 can select either a first lighting design or a second lighting design based on the performance (specifications) of the first lighting fixture 101 used for the first lighting design. Specifically, for example, if three or more specifications selected from the group consisting of the luminous flux, appearance, color temperature control, and dimming function of the first lighting fixture 101 meet the user's requirements, then selector 2131 selects the first lighting design. If the number of specifications that meet the user's requirements is two or fewer, then selector 2131 selects the second lighting design.

[0165] Alternatively, selector 2131 may also select either a first lighting design or a second lighting design depending on whether the first lighting fixture 101 used for the first lighting design is compatible with the target facility 100. Specifically, if the first lighting fixture 101 is compatible with the target facility 100, selector 2131 selects the first lighting design. On the other hand, unless the first lighting fixture 101 is compatible with the target facility 100, selector 2131 selects the second lighting design.

[0166] Alternatively, selector 2131 may select either a first lighting design or a second lighting design depending on whether the spatial structure used for the first lighting design matches the first lighting fixture 101. Specifically, if the spatial structure used for the first lighting design matches the first lighting fixture 101, selector 2131 selects the first lighting design. On the other hand, unless the spatial structure used for the first lighting design matches the first lighting fixture 101, selector 2131 selects the second lighting design.

[0167] According to the first variant of the lighting design support system 1A, higher priority can be given to the first lighting design using the first lighting equipment 101 or the second lighting design that is best for the target facility 100.

[0168] (6.2) Second variant Reference Figure 20 The lighting design support system 1A according to the second variant is described below. In the following description, any constituent element of the lighting design support system 1A according to the second variant, which has the same function as the corresponding constituent element of the lighting design support system 1A according to the second embodiment described above, will be indicated by the same reference numerals as the corresponding constituent element, and its description is omitted here.

[0169] In the lighting design support system 1A according to the second variant, the display unit 30, which serves as the output device 32, displays not only the third image Im13, but also the fourth image Im14, such as... Figure 20As shown. The third image Im13 is an image of a room in the target facility 100 that has undergone the lighting design described above. The fourth image Im14 is an image showing a floor plan of the target facility 100. Position Po0 in the fourth image Im14 is the location where the first lighting fixture 101 is placed. That is, in the lighting design support system 1A according to the second variant, the spatial information In3 includes the third image Im13 and the fourth image Im14. Note that in Figure 20 In the example shown, the third image Im13 is the image corresponding to the shaded portion of the fourth image Im14.

[0170] The second variant of the lighting design support system 1A also has a floor plan of the target facility 100 displayed on the display unit 30, thereby allowing the first lighting equipment 101 to be installed more efficiently in the target facility 100.

[0171] (6.3) Other variations Next, other variations will be listed in turn.

[0172] The lighting design support system 1A according to this disclosure, or the subject performing the lighting design support method according to this disclosure, includes a computer system. The computer system includes a processor and memory as its main hardware components. The computer system performs the functions of the lighting design support system 1A according to this disclosure, or serves as the subject performing the lighting design support method according to this disclosure, by causing the processor to execute a program stored in the memory of the computer system. The program may be pre-stored in the memory of the computer system. Alternatively, the program may also be downloaded via a telecommunications line, or distributed after being stored on some non-transitory storage medium such as a memory card, optical disc, or hard disk drive, any of which can be read by the computer system. The processor of the computer system may consist of one or more electronic circuits including semiconductor integrated circuits (ICs) or large-scale integrated circuits (LSIs). As used herein, "integrated circuit" such as IC or LSI is referred to by different names depending on its degree of integration. Examples of integrated circuits such as ICs or LSIs include integrated circuits referred to as "system LSIs," "very large-scale integrated circuits (VLSIs)," and "extremely large-scale integrated circuits (ULSIs)." Alternatively, a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) programmed after LSI fabrication or a reconfigurable logic device that allows reconfiguration of connections or circuitry within the LSI can be used as the processor. These electronic circuits can be integrated on a single chip or distributed across multiple chips, depending on the application. These multiple chips can be clustered in a single device or distributed across multiple devices without limitation. As used herein, "computer system" includes a microcontroller comprising one or more processors and one or more memories. Therefore, a microcontroller can also be implemented as a single or multiple electronic circuits comprising semiconductor integrated circuits or large-scale integrated circuits.

[0173] In the above embodiments, multiple functions of the lighting design support system 1A are integrated together in a single housing. However, this is not a necessary configuration for the lighting design support system 1A. Alternatively, the components of the lighting design support system 1A can be distributed across multiple different housings. Or, for example, at least some functions of the lighting design support system 1A (e.g., the functions of the control unit 21A of the server device 2A) can be implemented as a cloud computing system.

[0174] Conversely, in the second embodiment, at least some functions of the lighting design support system 1A distributed across multiple devices can be aggregated within a single housing. For example, some functions of the lighting design support system 1A distributed across server device 2A and mobile communication device 3 can be aggregated within a single housing.

[0175] Creator 213 can read from the second storage device 222 any one of the multiple third spatial structures that most closely matches the desired information, and use it as the second spatial structure 202. In this case, creator 213 creates spatial information In3 by placing the first lighting fixture 101 in the third spatial structure that best matches the desired information, rather than placing the first lighting fixture 101 in the second spatial structure 202. This allows the extraction of the third spatial structure that best matches the user's desire.

[0176] Creator 213 can extract similar lighting fixtures as a combination of multiple first lighting fixtures 101. Assume the following: the multiple first lighting fixtures 101 include ceiling lights for illuminating a room with 10 tatami mats and ceiling lights for illuminating a room with 6 tatami mats, and one of the one or more second lighting fixtures included in the similar structure is a ceiling light for illuminating a room with 15 tatami mats. In this case, creator 213 extracts the ceiling light for illuminating the room with 15 tatami mats as a similar lighting fixture in the similar structure. Then, based on the position information of the ceiling light for illuminating the room with 15 tatami mats in the similar structure, creator 213 creates spatial information In3 by arranging the ceiling lights for illuminating the room with 10 tatami mats and the ceiling lights for illuminating the room with 6 tatami mats in the second spatial structure 202.

[0177] The input device 31 can also be configured to receive further instructions during the lighting design of the target facility 100 regarding whether the construction of the first lighting fixture 101 should be carried out.

[0178] In the second embodiment described above, the lighting design support system 1A includes an output device 32. Alternatively, the lighting design support system 1A may not include the output device 32. That is, the output device 32 may be omitted.

[0179] At least some of the functions of server device 2A can be performed by a cloud computing system.

[0180] In the second embodiment described above, the facility information In1 includes data about the first image Im1. However, the facility information In1 is not limited to data about the first image Im1, and may also include, for example, drawing data (which may be data about handwritten drawings).

[0181] In the second embodiment described above, the third image Im3 is displayed on the display unit 30 as spatial information In3 of the target facility 100. Alternatively, for example, information about the first spatial structure 201 stored in the first storage device 221 can itself be displayed on the display unit 30.

[0182] In the second embodiment described above, the output device 32 is the display unit 30 of the mobile communication device 3, and the spatial information In3 is displayed on the display unit 30. However, this is merely an example and should not be construed as limiting. Alternatively, the output device 32 may output the spatial information In3 to, for example, a system or device separately from the lighting design support system 1A. The output device 32 may output both the equipment information In4 and the spatial information In3. Optionally, the creator 212 may also create at least one of a quotation and a purchase order based on the spatial information In3 and the equipment information In4.

[0183] (aspect) The foregoing description provides specific embodiments of the following aspects of this disclosure.

[0184] The lighting design support system (1) according to the first aspect is used to support the lighting design of the target facility (100). The lighting design support system (1) includes an input device (31), a storage device (22), an estimator (211), and a creator (212). The input device (31) accepts input of request information (In2) and facility information (In1). The request information (In2) is information about a user request. The facility information (In1) is information about the target facility (100). The storage device (22) stores a plurality of first spatial structures (201). Each of the plurality of first spatial structures (201) is a spatial structure created by a lighting design process that has been carried out using one or more lighting fixtures (101). The estimator (211) estimates a second spatial structure (202) based on the facility information (In1) received by the input device (31). The second spatial structure (202) is the spatial structure of the target facility (100). The creator (212) creates spatial information (In3) for the target facility (100) through a lighting design process based on the request information (In2) received by the input device (31). The creator (212) reads any one of a plurality of first spatial structures (201) stored in the storage device (22) as a similar structure to the second spatial structure (202). The creator (212) also creates spatial information (In3) based on equipment information as information about the similar structure.

[0185] This aspect allows for a reduction in the time spent on lighting design for the target facility (100).

[0186] In the lighting design support system (1) based on the second aspect, which can be implemented in conjunction with the first aspect, the structural information includes image information about similar structures. The creator (212) creates spatial information (In3) based on the image information.

[0187] This aspect allows for lighting design based on image information.

[0188] In the lighting design support system (1) according to the third aspect, which can be implemented in conjunction with the first aspect, the structural information includes: equipment information (In4) as information about one or more lighting fixtures (101) included in a similar structure; and location information (In6) as information about the position of one or more lighting fixtures (101) included in a similar structure. The creator (212) creates spatial information (In3) based on the equipment information (In4) and the location information (In6) by placing one or more lighting fixtures (101) in a second spatial structure (202).

[0189] This aspect allows for lighting design based on equipment information (In4) and location information (In6).

[0190] In the lighting design support system (1) according to the fourth aspect, which can be implemented by combining any of the first to third aspects, the creator (212) includes a lighting effect generator (2121). The lighting effect generator (2121) uses a learned model to create spatial information (In3), which includes lighting effects produced by one or more lighting fixtures (101) in each of a plurality of first spatial structures (201). The learned model is generated by machine learning of the lighting effects.

[0191] This aspect allows for the creation of spatial information (In3) while reflecting lighting effects.

[0192] In the lighting design support system (1) according to the fifth aspect, which can be implemented by combining any of the first to fourth aspects, the storage device (22) stores each of a plurality of first spatial structures (201) in association with a first feature quantity. The first feature quantity is the feature quantity of each of the plurality of first spatial structures (201). The estimator (211) extracts a second feature quantity from a second spatial structure (202) that has been estimated. The second feature quantity is the feature quantity of the second spatial structure (202). The creator (212) reads from the storage device (22) any one of the plurality of first spatial structures (201) stored in the storage device (22) as a similar structure. The first spatial structure (201) is associated with a first feature quantity similar to the second feature quantity.

[0193] This aspect allows for the reduction of the processing load on the creator (212).

[0194] In the lighting design support system (1) according to the sixth aspect, which can be implemented in combination with any of the first to fifth aspects, the facility information (In1) includes sensing results obtained by sensing devices (4) installed in the target facility (100).

[0195] This aspect allows the estimator (211) to estimate the second spatial structure (202) more accurately.

[0196] The lighting design support system (1) according to the seventh aspect, which can be implemented in combination with any of the first to sixth aspects, also includes an output device (32) that outputs spatial information (In3).

[0197] This aspect allows users to be informed of the spatial information (In3) of the target facility (100) subject to the lighting design.

[0198] In the lighting design support system (1) based on the eighth aspect, which can be implemented in conjunction with the seventh aspect, the output device (32) also outputs equipment information (In4) as information about the lighting equipment (101) used for lighting design. The equipment information (In4) constitutes part of the spatial information (In3).

[0199] This aspect allows for the notification of not only the spatial information (In3) of the target facility (100) undergoing the lighting design to the user, but also the equipment information (In4) regarding the lighting equipment (101) used in the lighting design.

[0200] In the lighting design support system (1) according to the ninth aspect, which can be implemented in conjunction with the seventh or eighth aspect, the input device (31) also accepts input to modify the spatial information (In3) that has already been output by the output device (32).

[0201] This aspect allows modification of the spatial information (In3) of a target facility (100) that has already undergone lighting design.

[0202] In the lighting design support system (1) according to the tenth aspect, which can be implemented by combining any of the first to ninth aspects, the spatial information (In3) includes plan information (In5), location information (In6), and equipment information (In4). The plan information (In5) is information about the plan of the target facility (100). The location information (In6) is information about the location of one or more lighting fixtures (101) in the target facility (100). The equipment information (In4) is information about one or more lighting fixtures (101).

[0203] This aspect allows one or more lighting fixtures (101) to be installed more efficiently in the target facility (100).

[0204] The lighting design support system (1A) according to aspect eleven is used to support the lighting design of the target facility (100). The lighting design support system (1A) includes an input device (31), a storage device (221), and a creator (213). The input device (31) accepts input of facility information (In1) and equipment information (In2). The facility information (In1) is information about the target facility (100). The equipment information (In2) is information about the first lighting equipment (101). The storage device (221) stores multiple first spatial structures (201). Each of the multiple first spatial structures (201) is a spatial structure created through a lighting design process that has been performed using one or more second lighting equipment. The creator (213) creates spatial information (In3) for the target facility (100) through the lighting design process. The creator (213) reads any one of the multiple first spatial structures (201) stored in the storage device (221) as a similar structure to the second spatial structure (202). The second spatial structure (202) is the spatial structure of the target facility (100). The creator (213) extracts any one of the one or more second lighting devices included in the similar structure as a similar lighting device to the first lighting device (101). The creator (213) also creates spatial information (In3) by placing the first lighting device (101) in the second spatial structure (202) based on the location information of the similar lighting device in the similar structure.

[0205] This aspect allows for a reduction in the time spent on lighting design for the target facility (100). Furthermore, this aspect allows for the use of a first lighting fixture (101) for lighting design of the target facility (100).

[0206] The lighting design support system (1A) according to the 12th aspect, which can be implemented in conjunction with the 11th aspect, also includes a second storage device (222). The second storage device (222) is set separately from the first storage device (221) which is used as a storage device (221). The second storage device (222) stores a plurality of third space structures. Each of the plurality of third space structures is a potential candidate space structure for the target facility (100). The input device (31) also accepts input of desired information. The desired information includes information about parameters that the user desires the target facility (100) to have. Examples of parameters include the age of the target facility (100), floor plan, and total building area. The creator (213) reads from the second storage device (222) any one of the plurality of third space structures stored in the second storage device (222) that most closely matches the desired information, as the second space structure (202).

[0207] This aspect allows the use of the spatial structure most similar to the second spatial structure (202) as the spatial structure of the target facility (100) for lighting design.

[0208] The lighting design support method according to aspect thirteen is used to support the lighting design of a target facility (100). The lighting design support method includes an input step (ST1), an estimation step (ST2), and a creation step (ST3). The input step (ST1) includes accepting request information (In2) and facility information (In1) as input. The request information (In2) is information about a user request. The facility information (In1) is information about the target facility (100). The estimation step (ST2) includes estimating the spatial structure of the target facility (100) based on the facility information (In1) accepted in the input step (ST1). The creation step (ST3) includes creating spatial information (In3) for the target facility (100) through a lighting design process based on the request information (In2) accepted in the input step (ST1). The creation step (ST3) also includes reading from a storage device (22) any one of a plurality of first spatial structures (201) stored in the storage device (22) as a similar structure to a second spatial structure (202). The storage device (22) stores multiple first spatial structures (201). Each of the multiple first spatial structures (201) is a spatial structure created through a lighting design process using one or more lighting fixtures (101). The second spatial structure (202) is the spatial structure of the target facility (100). The creation step (ST3) also includes creating spatial information (In3) based on fixture information as information about similar structures.

[0209] This aspect allows for a reduction in the time spent on lighting design for the target facility (100).

[0210] The lighting design support method according to aspect fourteen is used to support the lighting design of the target facility (100). The lighting design support method includes an input step (ST11) and a creation step (ST12). The input step (ST11) includes accepting input of facility information (In1) and equipment information (In2). Facility information (In1) is information about the target facility (100). Equipment information (In2) is information about the first lighting equipment (101). The creation step (ST12) includes creating spatial information (In3) for the target facility (100) through a lighting design process. The creation step (ST12) also includes reading from a storage device (221) any one of a plurality of first spatial structures (201) stored in the storage device (221) as a similar structure to a second spatial structure (202). The storage device (221) stores a plurality of first spatial structures (201). Each of the plurality of first spatial structures (201) is a spatial structure created through a lighting design process that has been performed using one or more second lighting equipment. The second spatial structure (202) is the spatial structure of the target facility (100). The creation step (ST12) also includes extracting any one of the one or more second lighting fixtures included in the similar structure as a similar lighting fixture to the first lighting fixture (101). The creation step (ST3) also includes creating spatial information (In3) by placing the first lighting fixture (101) in the second spatial structure (202) based on the location information of the similar lighting fixture in the similar structure.

[0211] This aspect allows for a reduction in the time spent on lighting design for the target facility (100). Furthermore, this aspect also allows for the use of a first lighting fixture (101) for lighting design of the target facility (100).

[0212] Note that the components according to the second to tenth and twelfth aspects are not essential components for the lighting design support system (1; 1A), but may be appropriately omitted. List of reference numerals

[0213] 1. 1A Lighting Design Support System 4. Sensing devices 22 Storage devices 31 Input devices 32 Output devices 100 Target Facilities 101 Lighting Equipment 201 First Space Structure 202 Second Space Structure 211 Estimator Creators 212 and 213 221 First storage device (storage device) 222 Second storage device 2121 Lighting Effects Generator In1 Facility Information In2 Request Information In3 Spatial Information In4 Equipment Information In5 Floor Plan Information In6 Location Information ST1, ST11 Input Steps ST2 estimation steps ST3 and ST12 Creation Steps

Claims

1. A lighting design support system for supporting the lighting design of a target facility, the lighting design support system comprising: An input device configured to accept input of request information and facility information, wherein the request information is information about a user request and the facility information is information about the target facility; A storage device configured to store a plurality of first spatial structures, each of the plurality of first spatial structures being a spatial structure created through a lighting design process using one or more lighting fixtures; An estimator configured to estimate a second spatial structure, which is the spatial structure of the target facility, based on the facility information received by the input device; as well as A creator configured to create spatial information for the target facility through the lighting design process, based on the request information received by the input device. The creator is configured as follows: Read any one of the plurality of first spatial structures stored in the storage device as a similar structure to the second spatial structure; as well as The spatial information is created based on structural information, which serves as information about the similar structure.

2. The lighting design support system according to claim 1, wherein, The structural information includes image information about the similar structure, and The creator is configured to create the spatial information based on the image information.

3. The lighting design support system according to claim 1, wherein, The structural information includes: equipment information, which is information about the one or more lighting devices included in the similar structure; and location information, which is information about the location of the one or more lighting devices included in the similar structure. The creator is configured to create the spatial information by placing one or more lighting devices in the second spatial structure based on the equipment information and the location information.

4. The lighting design support system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The creator includes a lighting effect generator configured to create the spatial information using a learned model, the spatial information including lighting effects produced by one or more lighting devices in each of the plurality of first spatial structures, the learned model being generated by machine learning of the lighting effects.

5. The lighting design support system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The storage device is configured to store each of the plurality of first spatial structures in association with a first feature quantity, wherein the first feature quantity is a feature quantity of each of the plurality of first spatial structures. The estimator is configured to extract a second feature quantity from the estimated second spatial structure, the second feature quantity being a feature quantity of the second spatial structure, and The creator is configured to read from the storage device any one of the plurality of first spatial structures stored in the storage device as the similar structure, the first spatial structure being associated with a first feature quantity similar to the second feature quantity.

6. The lighting design support system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The facility information includes sensing results obtained by sensing devices installed in the target facility.

7. The lighting design support system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising an output device configured to output the spatial information.

8. The lighting design support system according to claim 7, wherein, The output device is configured to further output equipment information as information about the lighting equipment used in the lighting design, the equipment information forming part of the spatial information.

9. The lighting design support system according to claim 7 or 8, wherein, The input device is configured to further accept input to modify the spatial information that has already been output by the output device.

10. The lighting design support system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, The spatial information includes: Floor plan information, which serves as information about the target facility. Location information, which serves as information regarding the location of the one or more lighting fixtures in the target facility; and Equipment information, which refers to information about the one or more lighting devices.

11. A lighting design support system for supporting the lighting design of a target facility, the lighting design support system comprising: An input device configured to accept input of facility information and equipment information, wherein the facility information is information about the target facility and the equipment information is information about a first lighting device; A storage device configured to store a plurality of first spatial structures, each of the plurality of first spatial structures being a spatial structure created through a lighting design process using one or more second lighting devices; as well as A creator configured to generate spatial information for the target facility through the lighting design process. The creator is configured as follows: Read from the storage device any one of the plurality of first spatial structures stored in the storage device as a similar structure to the second spatial structure, the second spatial structure being the spatial structure of the target facility; Extract any one of the one or more second lighting devices included in the similar structure from the similar structure, as a similar lighting device to the first lighting device; as well as Based on the positional information of the similar lighting equipment in the similar structure, the spatial information is created by placing the first lighting equipment in the second spatial structure.

12. The lighting design support system of claim 11, further comprising a second storage device, the second storage device being separately disposed from the first storage device used as said storage device, wherein, The second storage device is configured to store a plurality of third space structures, each of which is a potential candidate space structure for the target facility. The input device is configured to further receive desired information, including information about parameters that the user desires the target facility to have, examples of which include the age, floor plan, and total building area of ​​the target facility. The creator is configured to read from the second storage device any one of the plurality of third space structures that most closely matches the desired information, and use it as the second space structure.

13. A lighting design support method for supporting the lighting design of a target facility, the lighting design support method comprising: The input step includes accepting input of request information and facility information, wherein the request information is information about a user request and the facility information is information about the target facility; An estimation step, the estimation step including estimating the spatial structure of the target facility based on the facility information received in the input step; as well as The creation step includes creating spatial information for the target facility through the lighting design process based on the request information received in the input step. The creation steps include: Read from the storage device any one of a plurality of first spatial structures stored in the storage device as a similar structure to a second spatial structure, the storage device is configured to store the plurality of first spatial structures, each of the plurality of first spatial structures being a spatial structure created by a lighting design process using one or more lighting devices, the second spatial structure being the spatial structure of the target facility; as well as The spatial information is created based on structural information, which serves as information about the similar structure.

14. A lighting design support method for supporting the lighting design of a target facility, the lighting design support method comprising: The input step includes accepting input of facility information and equipment information, wherein the facility information is information about the target facility and the equipment information is information about the first lighting equipment; as well as The creation steps include creating spatial information for the target facility through the lighting design process. The creation steps include: Read from the storage device any one of a plurality of first spatial structures stored in the storage device, as a similar structure to the second spatial structure, the storage device being configured to store the plurality of first spatial structures, each of the plurality of first spatial structures being a spatial structure created through a lighting design process using one or more second lighting fixtures, the second spatial structure being the spatial structure of the target facility; and Extract any one of the one or more second lighting devices included in the similar structure from the similar structure, as a similar lighting device to the first lighting device; and Based on the positional information of the similar lighting equipment in the similar structure, the spatial information is created by placing the first lighting equipment in the second spatial structure.

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