Operation instrument, load system, communication system, and load control system

Abstract

To make it easy to judge the state of a load visually.SOLUTION: An operation instrument 1 includes a housing 2, an operation unit 3, a communication unit, a first light-emitting unit 11, and a second light-emitting unit 12. The operation unit 3 is provided in the housing 2 and accepts operation to switch the state of a load. The communication unit transmits an operation signal on the basis of the operation accepted by the operation unit 3, and receives a state signal related to the state of the load. The first light-emitting unit 11 emits light in a specific color other than white when the state of the load is a first state in the state signal received by the communication unit. The second light-emitting unit 12 emits light in white when the state of the load is a second state different from the first state in the state signal received by the communication unit.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to an operating device, a load system, a communication system, and a load control system. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to an operating device including an operating unit that receives an operation for switching the state of a load, a load system including the operating device, a communication system including the operating device, and a load control system including the communication system.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes an illumination control device capable of group-controlling a plurality of illumination loads in response to an operation of an operation switch. There are a plurality of operation switches incorporated in an operation terminal device. On the front surface of the case of the operation terminal device, the operation parts of the plurality of operation switches are arranged side by side. Further, a status indicator lamp is disposed in proximity to one end side of each operation part, and a status indicator lamp is also disposed in proximity to the other end side.

[0003] The status indicator lamp on one end side is composed of a red light-emitting diode, and the status indicator lamp on the other end side is composed of a green light-emitting diode. The status indicator lamp on one end side and the status indicator lamp on the other end side constitute a status display unit corresponding to the operation switch. The status display unit performs an on display or an off display according to the on state or off state of the illumination load of the group associated with the operation switch. In the case of an on display, the red light-emitting diode is lit, and in the case of an off display, the green light-emitting diode is lit.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] The operating terminal device (operating device) described in Patent Document 1 emits red light or green light according to the on state or off state of the lighting load (load state). Therefore, for example, when the user of the operating device has a color vision defect, it may be difficult to distinguish between red and green in the combination of red and green emission colors, and it may be difficult to visually determine the load state in some cases.

[0006] In view of the above reasons, the present disclosure is made, and an object thereof is to provide an operating device, a load system, a communication system, and a load control system that make it easy to visually determine the load state.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] The operating device according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a housing, an operating unit, a communication unit, a first light emitting unit, and a second light emitting unit. The operating unit is provided in the housing and receives an operation for switching the load state. The communication unit transmits an operation signal based on the operation received by the operating unit and receives a state signal regarding the load state. The first light emitting unit emits light in a specific color other than white when the load state in the state signal received by the communication unit is a first state. The second light emitting unit emits white light when the load state in the state signal received by the communication unit is a second state different from the first state.

[0008] A load system according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes the above operating device and the load.

[0009] A communication system according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes the above operating device and a communication device that controls communication between the operating device and the load.

[0010] A load control system according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes the above communication system and the load.

Advantages of the Invention

[0011] According to the present disclosure, there is an advantage that it becomes easier to visually determine the load state.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0012]

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DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The embodiments and modified examples described below are merely examples of the present disclosure, and the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments and modified examples. Even outside the following embodiments and modified examples, various changes can be made according to the design and the like as long as the technical idea related to the present disclosure is not deviated from. The following embodiments and modified examples can be applied in appropriate combinations, and also the following modified examples can be applied in appropriate combinations with each other. Also, FIGS. 1 to 13, FIGS. 16 to 25B described in the present disclosure are schematic diagrams, and the respective ratios of the sizes and thicknesses of the respective components in the drawings do not necessarily reflect the actual dimensional ratios.

[0014] (Embodiment) Hereinafter, the operating device 1, load system 100, communication system 110, and load control system 120 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 16.

[0015] (1) Overview Hereinafter, the overview of the operating device 1 according to this embodiment will be described.

[0016] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the operating device 1 includes a housing 2, an operation unit 3, a communication unit 17 (see FIG. 15), a first light emitting unit 11, and a second light emitting unit 12.

[0017] The operation unit 3 is provided in the housing 2 and receives an operation for switching the state of the load L1 (see FIG. 14). The communication unit 17 transmits an operation signal based on the operation received by the operation unit 3 and receives a state signal regarding the state of the load L1. The first light emitting unit 11 emits light in a specific color other than white when the state of the load L1 is the first state in the state signal received by the communication unit 17. The second light emitting unit 12 emits white light when the state of the load L1 is a second state different from the first state in the state signal received by the communication unit 17.

[0018] According to the above configuration, the first light emitting unit 11 emits light in a specific color when the state of the load L1 is the first state. The second light emitting unit 12 emits white light when the state of the load L1 is the second state. Therefore, for example, even when the user of the operating device 1 has a color vision defect, it becomes easier to visually determine the state of the load L1 compared to the case where the emission colors of red and green are presented.

[0019] As shown in FIG. 14, the load L1 can be, for example, the lighting load A1 or the relay Ry1 connected to the lighting load A1. The first state is the on state or the off state of the load L1. The second state is the state of the load L1 that is opposite to the first state. Hereinafter, as an example, it is assumed that the load L1 is the lighting load A1 for explanation. Also, hereinafter, as an example, it is assumed that the first state is the on state of the load L1 (lighting load A1) (for example, the lit state, which may be the dimmed lit state), and the second state is the off state of the load L1 (lighting load A1) (for example, the unlit state). Also, hereinafter, as an example, it is assumed that a specific color is, for example, red. That is, as an example, it is assumed that when the state of the lighting load A1 is the lit state, the first light emitting unit 11 emits light in red, and when the state of the lighting load A1 is the unlit state, the second light emitting unit 12 emits light in white.

[0020] However, the first state may be the unlit state of the lighting load A1, and the second state may be the lit state of the lighting load A1. Also, if the load L1 is the relay Ry1, the first state may be the on state of the contacts of the relay Ry1, and the second state may be the off state of the contacts of the relay Ry1, or conversely, the first state may be the off state of the contacts of the relay Ry1, and the second state may be the on state of the contacts of the relay Ry1.

[0021] Also, if the specific color is other than white, it may be, for example, green. When the state of the load L1 is the on state, the first light emitting unit 11 may emit light in green, and when the state of the load L1 is the off state, the second light emitting unit 12 may emit light in white.

[0022] (2) Configuration (2-1) Overall Configuration As shown in FIG. 14, the communication system 110 (control system) according to the present embodiment includes an operating device 1 and a communication device 111 (control device) that controls communication between the operating device 1 and the load L1. The communication device 111 communicates with the operating device 1 and also communicates with the load L1 via a control terminal device 9 described later.

[0023] As shown in FIG. 14, the load control system 120 according to this embodiment includes a communication system 110 and a load L1. The number of loads L1 is not particularly limited. The load control system 120 may include one or more loads L1 (for example, two lighting loads A1). In the example of FIG. 14, the relay Ry1 and the control terminal 9 are also included in the components of the load control system 120, but at least one of them may not be included in the components of the load control system 120. It is not essential that the relay Ry1 is connected to the lighting load A1, and it may be omitted.

[0024] Also, as shown in FIG. 14, the load system 100 according to this embodiment includes an operator 1 and a load L1. The load system 100 may include one or more loads L1 (for example, two lighting loads A1). In the example of FIG. 14, the relay Ry1 and the control terminal 9 are also included in the components of the load system 100, but at least one of them may not be included in the components of the load system 100. Also, when assuming the relay Ry1 as the load L1, the lighting load A1 may not be included in the components of the load system 100.

[0025] The communication system 110 is used in facilities such as office buildings, stores, hospitals, schools, or factories. In the facility, a communication device 111 and an operator 1 are installed. Also, in the facility, a lighting load A1 (lighting fixture), a relay Ry1, and a control terminal device 9 are installed. The relay Ry1 has a contact connected between an AC power supply and the lighting load A1, and the contact is switched on or off according to a switching signal from the control terminal device 9. The control terminal device 9 switches between a state of supplying power from the AC power supply to the lighting load A1 and a state of cutting off the power supply by outputting a switching signal to the relay Ry1 to switch the contact on or off. Here, a load control system 120 for controlling the load L1 is realized by the communication system 110 including the operator 1 and the communication device 111, the control terminal device 9, and the load L1 to be controlled (for example, the lighting load A1 or the relay Ry1). In FIG. 14, the number of operators 1 is one, but the number of operators 1 may be two or more. In FIG. 14, the number of control terminal devices 9 is two, but the number of control terminal devices 9 may be one or three or more. In FIG. 14, one relay Ry1 is connected to one control terminal device 9, and one control terminal device 9 controls the lighting on / off of one lighting load A1. However, two or more relays Ry1 may be connected to one control terminal device 9, and one control terminal device 9 may control the lighting on / off of two or more lighting loads A1. In the following description, when distinguishing between two lighting loads A1, they may be described as lighting loads A11 and A12, and when distinguishing between two control terminal devices 9, they may be described as control terminal devices 91 and 92.

[0026] The operator 1, the communication device 111, and the two control terminal devices 9 are each electrically connected to a two-wire transmission line 112.

[0027] The operator 1 includes a plurality (for example, eight) of (push-button) switches 6. A load address is assigned to each of the plurality of switches 6. The load address is composed of, for example, a load channel and a load number. When any one of the plurality of switches 6 is pressed, the operator 1 transmits the load address assigned to the pressed switch 6 to the communication device 111.

[0028] An individual address is assigned to the control terminal device 9. Also, an individual address is assigned to the relay Ry1 connected to the control terminal device 9, and the address obtained by combining the address of the control terminal device 9 and the address of the relay Ry1 becomes the address of the load L1 to be controlled. When the control terminal device 9 receives a control command addressed to itself from the communication device 111, it controls the relay Ry1 to be controlled to be turned on or off according to the received control command, thereby turning on or off the lighting load A1. Note that the control terminal device 9 may perform dimming control of the lighting load A1 according to the received control command.

[0029] The communication device 111 has a memory that stores the correspondence between the load addresses assigned to the plurality of switches 6 provided in the operator 1 and the address of the load L1 to be controlled. The communication device 111 communicates with the operator 1 and two control terminals 9 connected to the transmission line 112 in a multiplex transmission system. The communication device 111 performs constant polling to sequentially access the operator 1 and the two control terminals 9, and acquires information from the operator 1 and the two control terminals 9. When any one of the plurality of switches 6 provided in the operator 1 is pressed, the operator 1 sends an interrupt signal to the communication device 111. When the communication device 111 receives the interrupt signal, it accesses the operator 1 that sent the interrupt signal, and acquires the load address assigned to the pressed switch 6 from the operator 1. When the communication device 111 acquires the load address of the pressed switch 6, it acquires the address of the load L1 to be controlled associated with this load address, and sends a control command to the control terminal 9 corresponding to the acquired address. For example, if the load address of the pressed switch 6 is associated with the lighting load A11 connected to the control terminal 91, the communication device 111 sends a control command to the control terminal 91. Also, if the load address of the pressed switch 6 is associated with the lighting load A12 connected to the control terminal 92, the communication device 111 sends a control command to the control terminal 92. When the control terminal 9 receives a control command addressed to itself from the communication device 111, it controls the relay Ry1 to be controlled to be on or off according to the control command, and turns on, turns off, or dims the lighting load A1.

[0030] The load addresses assigned to switch 6 include individual control addresses, group control addresses, pattern control addresses, etc. When switch 6 assigned with an individual control address is pressed, communication device 111 sends a control command to control terminal device 9 associated with the individual control address, and lights, turns off, or dims one lighting load A1 associated with the individual control address. When switch 6 assigned with a group control address is pressed, communication device 111 sends a control command to one or more control terminal devices 9 associated with the group control address. One or more control terminal devices 9 associated with the group control address, based on the control command from communication device 111, collectively light, turn off, or dim a plurality of lighting loads A1 associated with the group control address. Also, when switch 6 assigned with a pattern control address is pressed, communication device 111 sends a control command to one or more control terminal devices 9 associated with the pattern control address. One or more control terminal devices 9 associated with the pattern control address, based on the control command from communication device 111, control each of the plurality of lighting loads A1 to the state (lit, turned off, or dimmed) specified by the control command.

[0031] Note that the transmission signal transmitted by communication device 111 to transmission line 112 is a bipolarity (±24V) time-division multiplexed signal. The operating power of the internal circuits of operator 1 and two control terminal devices 9 is generated by rectifying and stabilizing the transmission signal transmitted by communication device 111.

[0032] (2-2) Operator Hereinafter, the configuration of operator 1 (operation terminal) will be described in detail. Hereinafter, based on the arrows in the up-down, left-right, and front-back directions without the entities shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the direction of operator 1 may be defined for description, but it is not intended to limit the usage direction of operator 1. FIG. 15 is a schematic block diagram of operator 1.

[0033] The operator 1 includes a housing 2, one or more (four in FIG. 1) operating parts 3, one or more (eight in FIG. 2) switches 6, a substrate 7, a mounting frame 5, and a quick-connect terminal block 8 (see FIG. 6). In FIG. 15, the switch 6 is abbreviated as "SW". Also, as shown in FIG. 15, the operator 1 includes a signal processing unit 15, a display light-emitting unit 10 (abbreviated as "display unit" in FIG. 15), a setting communication unit 16, a communication unit 17, a storage unit 18, and a power supply unit 19. The quick-connect terminal block 8 has a pair of first connection terminals 81 and a pair of second connection terminals 82, as shown in FIG. 15.

[0034] The display light-emitting unit 10 (display unit) includes one or more (eight in FIG. 2) light-emitting groups G1. Each light-emitting group G1 includes a first light-emitting unit 11 and a second light-emitting unit 12, as shown in FIG. 2. In short, the operator 1 includes a plurality of operating parts 3, and the operator 1 also includes a plurality of light-emitting groups G1 including the first light-emitting unit 11 and the second light-emitting unit 12.

[0035] A pair of transmission lines 112 are respectively connected to the pair of first connection terminals 81 and the pair of second connection terminals 82. The pair of first connection terminals 81 and the pair of second connection terminals 82 are electrically connected inside the operator 1. For example, the pair of second connection terminals 82 are used as terminals for feed wiring.

[0036] The communication unit 17 is connected to the pair of transmission lines 112 via the pair of first connection terminals 81 and is connected to the pair of transmission lines 112 via the pair of second connection terminals 82. Thereby, the communication unit 17 is branched and connected to the pair of transmission lines 112. The communication unit 17 communicates with the communication device 111 in a multiplex transmission system via the pair of transmission lines 112.

[0037] The power supply unit 19 generates the operating power for the internal circuit by rectifying and stabilizing the transmission signal transmitted from the communication device 111 to the pair of transmission lines 112.

[0038] As shown in Fig. 2, the setting communication unit 16 includes one or more (two in Fig. 2) light-emitting units X1 for communication and one or more (two in Fig. 2) light-receiving units Y1 for communication. In other words, the operation device 1 further includes one or more light-emitting units X1 for communication and one or more light-receiving units Y1 for communication. The setting communication unit 16 communicates with a setting device 500 (see Fig. 16) for address setting. The light-emitting unit X1 for communication transmits a signal to the setting device 500 by infrared light, and the light-receiving unit Y1 for communication receives the infrared light transmitted from the setting device 500, thereby performing optical communication using infrared light with the setting device 500. The setting device 500 is used to set a load address for each of the plurality of switches 6 provided in the operation device 1.

[0039] The signal processing unit 15 performs overall control of the operation device 1. The signal processing unit 15 mainly includes a computer system having one or more processors and a memory. The functions of the signal processing unit 15 are realized by the processor of the computer system executing a program recorded in the memory of the computer system. The program may be recorded in the memory, may be provided through a telecommunication line such as the Internet, or may be provided by being recorded in a non-temporary recording medium such as a memory card.

[0040] The storage unit 18 includes memories such as a RAM (Random Access Memory), a ROM (Read-Only Memory), and an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), for example. The storage unit 18 stores, for example, the programs executed by the signal processing unit 15. The storage unit 18 stores, for example, the load addresses assigned to each of the plurality of switches 6.

[0041] (2-2-1) Operation Unit In this embodiment, the operating device 1 includes, for example, a mounting frame 5 having the dimensions of a mounting frame for three large square continuous wiring devices standardized by the Japanese Industrial Standards (i.e., the mounting frame for a so-called three-switch). On the other hand, the number of operating units 3 is four. Also, each operating unit 3 corresponds to a so-called seesaw-type operating handle in which when one of the left and right ends is pressed and displaced backward, the other is displaced forward, and conversely, when the other is displaced backward, one is displaced forward. However, the number of switches 6 pressed by each operating unit 3 is two (i.e., a total of eight). The two switches 6 corresponding to each operating unit 3 are arranged side by side with a predetermined interval in the left-right direction. Hereinafter, the two switches 6 corresponding to each operating unit 3 may be simply referred to as "left and right switches 6", one as the "right switch 6", and the other as the "left switch 6".

[0042] The number of operating units 3 is not limited to four. For example, the number of operating units 3 may be any one of 1 to 3, or may be 5 or more. Also, the number of switches 6 is not limited to a total of eight. Also, the number of switches 6 pressed by each operating unit 3 is not limited to two. For example, as in the modification (operating device 1A) described later, the number of switches 6 pressed by each operating unit 3 may be one.

[0043] As described above, the operating device 1 includes four operating units 3 (see FIG. 1). The four operating units 3 are provided in a manner held by the housing 2. Each operating unit 3 receives an operation for switching the state of the load L1. In this embodiment, each operating unit 3 can individually switch different states of the load L1 depending on whether one end side or the other end side is pressed.

[0044] The four operating units 3 are arranged side by side in the vertical direction when viewed from the front. In other words, the plurality of operating units 3 are arranged side by side in the longitudinal direction (here, the vertical direction) of the housing 2. The four operating units 3 have the same structure as each other. Hereinafter, when the four operating units 3 are distinguished from each other for explanation, they may be referred to as the first operating unit 3A, the second operating unit 3B, the third operating unit 3C, and the fourth operating unit 3D in order from the top.

[0045] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 7 to 9, each operation unit 3 (operation handle) includes a main body unit 31, a name plate 32, a lid unit 33, and an optical member 4.

[0046] The main body unit 31 is formed in a rectangular plate shape that is long in the left - right direction. The main body unit 31 is made of, for example, resin.

[0047] When viewed from the front, the main body unit 31 has an opening 30 that is long in the left - right direction. As shown in FIG. 13B, the opening 30 includes a first opening 301 on the right side, a second opening 302 on the left side, and a third opening 303 located in the center when viewed from the front. In this embodiment, the first opening 301 and the third opening 303 are spatially connected, and the second opening 302 and the third opening 303 are spatially connected. Note that the "operation - unit - side opening 30X" in this embodiment corresponds to each of the first opening 301 on the right side and the second opening 302 on the left side as shown in FIG. 13B. In other words, the operation unit 3 has an operation - unit - side opening 30X.

[0048] The operation - unit - side opening 30X is formed in a slit shape. In this embodiment, the operation - unit - side opening 30X is a rectangular hole that is long in the up - down direction when viewed from the front. The operation - unit - side opening 30X can emit light (such as light from the first light - emitting unit 11 and the second light - emitting unit 12) emitted from the housing - side opening 20 of the housing 2 described later.

[0049] Also, in this embodiment, the first light - emitting unit 11 and the second light - emitting unit 12 are arranged so as to be aligned in the longitudinal direction (here, the up - down direction) of the (corresponding) operation - unit - side opening 30X (see FIG. 13B). Therefore, it is easy to reduce the size of the operating device 1 in the direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the operation - unit - side opening 30X (for example, the left - right direction).

[0050] The main body 31 has a flat operation surface 31A (see FIGS. 1, 3, and 7) on its front side. The operation surface 31A is the surface around the opening 30 and is the surface that receives a pressing operation from the user. Note that not only the operation surface 31A but also the surface 40 (see FIGS. 1, 3, and 7) of the optical member 4 can be the surface that receives a pressing operation from the user. When it is described as "the operation surface 31A (surface 40) is pressed" in the following description, it means that at least one of the operation surface 31A and the surface 40 is pressed.

[0051] When the user presses a region near the right or left end of the operation surface 31A (surface 40) with a fingertip or the like, a pressing operation on the operation unit 3 is performed. The pressing direction in which the user performs a pressing operation on the operation unit 3 generally corresponds to the rear.

[0052] The main body 31 has a pair of locking portions corresponding to the mounting portion 3X at both the left and right ends on the rear surface 31B opposite to the operation surface 31A. Hereinafter, the right locking portion of the pair of locking portions is referred to as "the first locking portion 311", and the left locking portion is referred to as "the second locking portion 312" (see FIGS. 7, 8, and 9).

[0053] The first locking portion 311 and the second locking portion 312 are formed symmetrically left and right. Each of the first locking portion 311 and the second locking portion 312 has a pair of locking pieces 3100 protruding rearward. Each locking piece 3100 is formed in a claw shape with its tip protruding outward. Each locking piece 3100 is inserted into a corresponding one of a plurality of locking holes 212 (see FIGS. 7 and 10) provided in the cover 21 of the housing 2. When the right end (or left end) of the operation surface 31A (surface 40) receives a pressing operation, the right end portion (or left end portion) of the main body 31 retreats, and the main body 31 rotates so that the left end portion (or right end portion) comes forward. However, the length of each locking piece 3100 is set so that the claw-shaped tip of the locking piece 3100 provided at the left end portion (or right end portion) contacts the peripheral edge of the locking hole 212 in this state.

[0054] In addition, the main body 31 has a pair of holding parts corresponding to the mounting part 3X at both upper and lower ends on the back surface 31B side. Hereinafter, the upper holding part of the pair of holding parts will be referred to as the "first holding part 313", and the lower holding part will be referred to as the "second holding part 314" (see FIGS. 7, 8, 9, and 11A).

[0055] The first holding part 313 and the second holding part 314 respectively hold a pair of rotation shafts 230 (see FIGS. 7, 10, and 11A) of the support part 23 provided on the cover 21 of the housing 2. Each of the first holding part 313 and the second holding part 314 is configured as a protruding piece protruding rearward from the back surface 31B of the main body part 31. The tip of each of the first holding part 313 and the second holding part 314 has a recess 315 (see FIGS. 8 and 9) recessed forward, and the corresponding rotation shaft 230 is press-fitted into the recess 315. As a result, the main body part 31 (that is, the operation part 3) is supported by the support part 23 and can rotate like a seesaw within a predetermined angle range around the pair of rotation shafts 230 (see the two double-headed arrows on the left and right sides of the operation part 3 shown in FIG. 11A).

[0056] Note that each of the pair of rotation shafts 230 has a radius of the front semi-cylindrical part slightly larger than the radius of the rear semi-cylindrical part, and a step 232 (see FIG. 11B) is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the rotation shaft 230 between the front semi-cylindrical part and the rear semi-cylindrical part. On the other hand, a claw part 3151 (see FIG. 9) is provided at a position corresponding to the step 232 of the rotation shaft 230 in the recesses 315 provided in the first holding part 313 and the second holding part 314. Therefore, in a state where the rotation shaft 230 is fitted into the recesses 315 of the first holding part 313 and the second holding part 314 (see FIG. 11B), the claw part 3151 is caught by the step 232, making it difficult for the rotation shaft 230 to come off from the first holding part 313 and the second holding part 314.

[0057] In short, the operation part 3 has a mounting part 3X for mounting to the housing 2, and the mounting part 3X includes the above-described first locking part 311 and second locking part 312, and the first holding part 313 and the second holding part 314.

[0058] The main body portion 31 has a holding structure for holding the lid portion 33 on the back surface 31B side. Specifically, on the back surface 31B side of the main body portion 31, at both the left and right sides of the lower end portion of the second holding portion 314, there are a pair of bearing portions 316 (see FIGS. 8 and 9) for holding a pair of shaft portions 331 (see FIGS. 8 and 9) of the lid portion 33. Further, on the back surface 31B side of the upper end portion of the main body portion 31, at both the left and right sides of the first holding portion 313, there are a pair of protrusions 317 (see FIG. 8) having hole portions 318 into which a pair of protruding pieces 332 (see FIG. 8) of the lid portion 33 are respectively inserted.

[0059] As shown in FIG. 7, the nameplate 32 is formed in a rectangular plate shape that is long in the left - right direction. The nameplate 32 is made of, for example, resin. On the nameplate 32, a name related to a load L1 (here, the lighting load A1) whose state is switched by the operation of the operation unit 3 may be indicated. For example, a name such as "Conference Room 1" corresponding to the location where the lighting load A1 is installed may be indicated. For example, a user who uses the operator 1 appropriately writes a name on the surface of the nameplate 32. The nameplate 32 is disposed on the back surface 31B side of the main body portion 31 so as to face the third opening 303 of the main body portion 31 via the optical member 4. The nameplate 32 has substantially the same shape and substantially the same dimensions as the third opening 303 when viewed from the front. The lid portion 33 is disposed on the back side of the nameplate 32.

[0060] The lid portion 33 is held on the main body portion 31 in an openable and closable state on the back surface 31B side of the main body portion 31, with one end portion (here, the lower end portion) as the rotation axis and the other end portion (here, the upper end portion). The lid portion 33 is disposed on the back surface 31B side of the main body portion 31 so as to sandwich the optical member 4 and the nameplate 32 with the main body portion 31.

[0061] Although the lid portion 33 is formed in a rectangular plate shape, the shape of the lid portion 33 in plan view can be appropriately changed. A concave portion may be provided in a V - shape at the lower end portion of the lid portion 33 that serves as the rotation center in order to avoid interference with the second holding portion 314.

[0062] The cover part 33 is made of, for example, resin. The cover part 33 has a pair of shaft parts 331 (see FIGS. 7 and 8) at its lower end. Also, the cover part 33 has a pair of projecting pieces 332 (see FIGS. 7 and 8) at its upper end. The cover part 33 is held by the bearing part 316 of the main body part 31 with the shaft part 331, and is rotatably held by the main body part 31 between an open position where the name plate 32 can be taken out with the shaft part 331 as a rotation axis and a closed position where the name plate 32 is covered. In the closed position, by further pushing the cover part 33 forward with a fingertip or the like, the pair of projecting pieces 332 are respectively fitted into the pair of hole parts 318 of the main body part 31, and it is possible to suppress the cover part 33 from opening.

[0063] The cover part 33 has a pair of projecting contact parts 334 (see FIG. 8: a total of four) near each of the left and right ends on its back surface. The contact parts 334 are arranged to face the pressing part 210 provided on the cover 21 of the housing 2 described later. The contact parts 334 transmit the pressing operation received from the user on the operation surface 31A (the front surface 40) by contacting the pressing part 210. The contact parts 334 may be in slight contact with the pressing part 210 even when not receiving a pressing operation. Alternatively, the contact parts 334 may be separated from the pressing part 210 when not receiving a pressing operation and come into contact by receiving a pressing operation.

[0064] The cover part 33 further has a gripping part 333 (FIG. 8) that can be gripped by the user with a finger or the like on its back surface. The user can open the cover part 33 by gripping and pulling the gripping part 333 in a state where the operation part 3 is removed from the housing 2.

[0065] The optical member 4 is arranged in the opening 30. The optical member 4 has light transmissivity or light guiding property. As an example, the optical member 4 is formed of a transparent acrylic resin or the like. The optical member 4 is formed in a rectangular box shape with the upper surface, the lower surface, and the back surface opened as a whole.

[0066] Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the optical member 4 includes a pair of first optical members 41 that respectively cover the left and right first opening 301 and second opening 302 (see FIG. 13B), and a second optical member 42 that covers the central third opening 303. In the present embodiment, the pair of first optical members 41 and the second optical member 42 are integrally formed as one member, but they may also be separate members from each other.

[0067] The second optical member 42 is formed in a rectangular plate shape. The name plate 32 is disposed to face the second optical member 42. The second optical member 42 has a pair of protrusions 420 (see FIGS. 7 and 8) that respectively protrude from the upper and lower edge portions. By the pair of protrusions 420 hitting the periphery of the third opening 303 from behind, the optical member 4 is prevented from falling off from the opening 30. The user can visually recognize the name written on the name plate 32 through the second optical member 42.

[0068] The pair of first optical members 41 are respectively provided at the left and right ends of the second optical member 42. By being disposed within the first opening 301, the right first optical member 41 efficiently guides the light (visible light) from the first light emitting unit 11 and the second light emitting unit 12 described later to the outside of the operation unit 3. Among the four operation units 3, only the fourth operation unit 3D can also allow the light (infrared light) from the communication light emitting unit X1 (see FIG. 5) described later and the light (infrared light) directed toward the communication light receiving unit Y1 (see FIG. 5) to pass through the right first optical member 41 in addition to the above visible light. FIG. 5 is a main part plan view of a region corresponding to the fourth operation unit 3D on the substrate 7. Also, by being disposed within the second opening 302, the left first optical member 41 efficiently guides the light (visible light) from the first light emitting unit 11 and the second light emitting unit 12 to the outside of the operation unit 3. Among the four operation units 3, only the fourth operation unit 3D can also allow the light (infrared light) from the communication light emitting unit X1 described later and the light (infrared light) directed toward the communication light receiving unit Y1 to pass through the left first optical member 41 in addition to the above visible light. Thus, the optical member 4 is disposed within the operation unit side opening 30X (the first opening 301 and the second opening 302).

[0069] In this embodiment, each first optical member 41 has a columnar portion 410 (see FIGS. 8 and 9) formed in a substantially rectangular column shape. The columnar portion 410 extends inward. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 3, the columnar portion 410 passes through the housing-side opening 20 provided in the cover 21 and extends to the back so as to face the first light-emitting portion 11 and the second light-emitting portion 12 mounted on the substrate 7 housed in the housing 2 in the vicinity. Among the four operation portions 3, only the fourth operation portion 3D, the columnar portion 410 of each first optical member 41 also faces the communication light-emitting portion X1 and the communication light-receiving portion Y1 mounted on the substrate 7 in the vicinity.

[0070] The user can visually recognize the light (visible light) from the first light-emitting portion 11 and the second light-emitting portion 12 through each first optical member 41. A lens portion may be provided on the rear surface of each first optical member 41 to make the light from the display light-emitting portion 10 and the communication light-emitting portion X1 incident on the rear surface of the first optical member 41 into parallel light. Further, a lens portion may be provided on the rear surface of the first optical member 41 to condense the communication light that enters from the front surface of the first optical member 41 and exits from the rear surface onto the communication light-receiving portion Y1. Also, a part of the light from the first light-emitting portion 11 and the second light-emitting portion 12 can also be derived from the central second optical member 42. The second optical member 42 may have light-guiding properties, and the light from the display light-emitting portion 10 may be guided by the first optical member 41 and the second optical member 42 and emitted to the outside from the front surfaces of the first optical member 41 and the second optical member 42.

[0071] Each first optical member 41 further has a protrusion 411 (see FIGS. 7 and 8) protruding outward. By the pair of protrusions 411 hitting the peripheries of the first opening 301 and the second opening 302 from behind, the dropout of the optical member 4 from the opening 30 is suppressed.

[0072] Each first optical member 41 further has a protrusion 412 (see FIG. 7) protruding forward, so there is an advantage that the position for pressing each operation portion 3 is easy to understand. Note that the protrusion indicating the operation position may be provided on the operation surface 31A of each operation portion 3 (that is, the peripheral portion of the opening 30). In this case, it is not necessary to provide the protrusion 412 of the first optical member 41.

[0073] When attaching the operation unit 3 configured as described above to the housing 2, for example, the first locking portion 311 and the second locking portion 312 are bent in a direction approaching each other with fingertips or the like. In this state, while inserting each locking piece 3100 into the corresponding locking hole 212 from the front, the operation unit 3 is pushed backward so that the rotary shaft 230 is fitted into the recess 315 of the first holding portion 313 and the second holding portion 314. As a result, the main body portion 31 is supported by the support portion 23, and the first locking portion 311 and the second locking portion 312 elastically return in a direction away from each other, and each locking piece 3100 is stably positioned within the locking hole 212.

[0074] Even when the main body portion 31 is pulled forward, the tips of the locking pieces 3100 of the first locking portion 311 and the second locking portion 312 are caught by the peripheral edge of the locking hole 212. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the main body portion 31 from coming off the support portion 23. As a result, the operation unit 3 is prevented from falling off the housing 2.

[0075] (2-2-2) Housing The housing 2 is formed in a long shape. In the present embodiment, the housing 2 is formed in a rectangular box shape that is flat in the front-rear direction and long in the vertical direction.

[0076] The housing 2 houses the substrate 7 and the like inside. As shown in FIG. 6, the housing 2 holds the quick-connect terminal block 8 mounted on the substrate 7 on the back side so as to be exposed to the outside. As shown in FIG. 12, the housing 2 includes a cover 21 and a case 22. Both the cover 21 and the case 22 are made of resin.

[0077] The cover 21 is formed in a rectangular box shape with an open rear surface. The cover 21 is assembled to cover the (open) front surface of the case 22.

[0078] As shown in FIGS. 10 and 12, the cover 21 has one or a plurality (here, four) of support portions 23 arranged side by side in the vertical direction in a front view. As described above, each support portion 23 has a pair of rotating shafts 230 that fit into a pair of depressions 315 of the corresponding operation portion 3. Specifically, the support portion 23 further has a pair of substantially triangular plate-shaped protrusions 231 that protrude forward from the front surface 21A of the cover 21 (see FIGS. 10 and 12). The pair of protrusions 231 are arranged at a predetermined interval in the vertical direction. The pair of rotating shafts 230 protrude in a direction away from each other from the pair of protrusions 231 in the vertical direction.

[0079] Also, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 12, the cover 21 has one or a plurality (here, four) of pressing portions 210 arranged side by side in the vertical direction in a front view. The four pressing portions 210 are arranged so as to correspond to the four support portions 23 respectively. Specifically, each pressing portion 210 is arranged between a pair of protrusions 231 of the corresponding support portion 23 arranged at a predetermined interval. Each pressing portion 210 transmits a pressing operation from the operation portion 3 supported by the corresponding support portion 23 to either one of the left and right switches 6. As shown in FIG. 3, each pressing portion 210 has a pair of pressing pieces 211 and a pair of extending portions 213.

[0080] As shown in FIGS. 10 and 12, each of the pair of extending portions 213 is formed in a substantially T shape in a front view. The pair of extending portions 213 are arranged symmetrically with respect to the left and right in a front view. The pair of extending portions 213 are formed so as to extend in a direction away from each other in the left-right direction. A groove 214 (see FIG. 10) that penetrates the cover 21 in the front-rear direction is formed in the peripheral region of each extending portion 213. As a result, the tip portion 213A of each extending portion 213 can move back and forth with the base as a fulcrum.

[0081] As shown in FIG. 3, each extending portion 213 extends obliquely forward so as to protrude forward from the base toward the tip portion 213A. Therefore, when the user presses the operation surface 31A (the surface 40) of the operation unit 3 with a fingertip or the like, an appropriate stress is received from the side of the extending portion 213. As a result, the operation feeling is improved.

[0082] Each tip portion 213A has a vertically long block shape. The pressing piece 211 protrudes rearward from the rear surface of the tip portion 213A.

[0083] For example, when the vicinity of the right side of the operation surface 31A (the surface 40) of a certain operation unit 3 is pressed, a pair of right contact portions 334 on the rear surface of the lid portion 33 of the operation unit 3 transmits the pressing force to the surface of the tip portion 213A of the right extending portion 213. As a result, the right extending portion 213 bends rearward due to elastic deformation, the tip portion 213A thereof is displaced rearward, and the tip of the pressing piece 211 presses the right switch 6.

[0084] Similarly, when the vicinity of the left side of the operation surface 31A (the surface 40) of a certain operation unit 3 is pressed, a pair of left contact portions 334 on the rear surface of the lid portion 33 of the operation unit 3 transmits the pressing force to the surface of the tip portion 213A of the left extending portion 213. As a result, the left extending portion 213 bends rearward due to elastic deformation, the tip portion 213A thereof is displaced rearward, and the tip of the pressing piece 211 presses the left switch 6.

[0085] When the user's pressing operation is finished, the extending portion 213 that has received the pressing force elastically returns, and the "pressing" of the switch 6 by the tip portion 213A is released.

[0086] Further, the cover 21 has one or a plurality (here, a total of 16) of locking holes 212 (see FIG. 10). Each locking hole 212 penetrates the cover 21 in the front-rear direction. Each locking hole 212 is formed in a slit shape. Each locking hole 212 is vertically long.

[0087] The 16 locking holes 212 are arranged in two rows of 8 each on the left and right when viewed from the front of the front surface 21A. The 8 locking holes 212 in the right row are arranged in a single row in the vertical direction near the right end of the front surface 21A. The 8 locking holes 212 in the left row are arranged in a single row in the vertical direction near the left end of the front surface 21A.

[0088] Hereinafter, the 8 locking holes 212 in each of the right row and the left row may be referred to as locking hole 212A, locking hole 212B, locking hole 212C, locking hole 212D, locking hole 212E, locking hole 212F, locking hole 212G, and locking hole 212H in order from the top (see FIG. 10).

[0089] Four locking pieces 3100 provided on the main body 31 of the first operation part 3A are respectively inserted into the left and right locking holes 212A and the left and right locking holes 212B.

[0090] Four locking pieces 3100 provided on the main body 31 of the second operation part 3B are respectively inserted into the left and right locking holes 212C and the left and right locking holes 212D.

[0091] Four locking pieces 3100 provided on the main body 31 of the third operation part 3C are respectively inserted into the left and right locking holes 212E and the left and right locking holes 212F.

[0092] Four locking pieces 3100 provided on the main body 31 of the fourth operation part 3D are respectively inserted into the left and right locking holes 212G and the left and right locking holes 212H.

[0093] Further, as shown in FIGS. 3, 7, 10, and 13A, the cover 21 has one or more (here, a total of 8) housing-side openings 20. Each housing-side opening 20 penetrates the cover 21 in the front-rear direction. Each housing-side opening 20 is formed in a slit shape. Each housing-side opening 20 is long in the vertical direction.

[0094] As shown in FIG. 10, the eight housing-side openings 20 are arranged in two rows of four each on the left and right in the front view of the front surface 21A. The four housing-side openings 20 in the right row are arranged vertically between the eight locking holes 212A to 212H in the right row and the four pressing portions 210 arranged in the center in the front view of the front surface 21A. Further, the four housing-side openings 20 in the left row are arranged in a single vertical row between the eight locking holes 212A to 212H in the left row and the four pressing portions 210 arranged in the center in the front view of the front surface 21A.

[0095] Each of the four operating portions 3 is arranged to cover the corresponding two left and right housing-side openings 20. That is, the operating portion 3 is arranged to cover the housing-side opening 20.

[0096] Hereinafter, the four housing-side openings 20 in each of the right row and the left row may be referred to as opening 20A, opening 20B, opening 20C, and opening 20D in order from the top (see FIG. 10).

[0097] The first operating portion 3A covers the left and right openings 20A. In particular, in the front view, the right-side opening 20A is arranged so as to overlap at least a part (here, generally all) of the right-side first opening 301 of the opening 30 of the first operating portion 3A. Further, in the front view, the left-side opening 20A is arranged so as to overlap at least a part (here, generally all) of the left-side second opening 302 of the opening 30 of the first operating portion 3A.

[0098] The second operating portion 3B covers the left and right openings 20B. In particular, in the front view, the right-side opening 20B is arranged so as to overlap at least a part (here, generally all) of the right-side first opening 301 of the opening 30 of the second operating portion 3B. Further, in the front view, the left-side opening 20B is arranged so as to overlap at least a part (here, generally all) of the left-side second opening 302 of the opening 30 of the second operating portion 3B.

[0099] The third operation unit 3C covers the left and right openings 20C. In particular, in a front view, the right opening 20C is arranged so as to overlap at least a part (here, generally all) of the right first opening 301 among the openings 30 of the third operation unit 3C. Also, in a front view, the left opening 20C is arranged so as to overlap at least a part (here, generally all) of the left second opening 302 among the openings 30 of the third operation unit 3C.

[0100] The fourth operation unit 3D covers the left and right openings 20D. In particular, in a front view, the right opening 20D is arranged so as to overlap at least a part (here, generally all) of the right first opening 301 among the openings 30 of the fourth operation unit 3D. Also, in a front view, the left opening 20D is arranged so as to overlap at least a part (here, generally all) of the left second opening 302 among the openings 30 of the fourth operation unit 3D.

[0101] Also, as shown in FIG. 12, the cover 21 has a pair of first protrusions 215 (a total of four) each having a hole portion 215A at each of its upper end portion and lower end portion. Each first protrusion 215 protrudes toward the case 22. In FIG. 12, only a pair of the first protrusions 215 at the lower end portion of the cover 21 among the four first protrusions 215 are shown.

[0102] On the other hand, the case 22 is also provided with four claw portions 225. The cover 21 is assembled to the case 22 by the four claw portions 225 being respectively caught one-to-one in the hole portions 215A of the four first protrusions 215.

[0103] Further, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 12, the cover 21 has a pair of second protrusions 216 (a total of four) at each of its right and left ends. Each second protrusion 216 protrudes toward the case 22. In FIG. 12, only a pair of second protrusions 216 at the right end of the cover 21 among the four second protrusions 216 are shown. A pair of mounting claws 216A (see FIG. 12) are provided on the surface of each second protrusion 216. A total of eight mounting claws 216A are provided on the entire cover 21. By hooking the eight mounting claws 216A into a plurality of mounting holes 51 (see FIG. 4) provided in the mounting frame 5, the entire housing 2 is attached to the mounting frame 5.

[0104] As shown in FIG. 12, the case 22 is formed in a rectangular box shape with an open front surface. The case 22 is substantially the same shape as the substrate 7 in a front view and is formed with slightly larger dimensions than the substrate 7.

[0105] The case 22 has a plurality of prismatic protrusions 221 (see FIG. 12) at its peripheral edge 22B. The plurality of protrusions 221 come into contact with the periphery of the substrate 7 to perform stable positioning of the substrate 7 in the up, down, left, and right directions.

[0106] Further, the case 22 has two cylindrical insertion protrusions 222 (see FIGS. 2 and 12) protruding from its bottom surface 22A. The two insertion protrusions 222 are respectively inserted into two positioning holes 71 provided in the substrate 7 to perform stable positioning of the substrate 7 in the up, down, left, and right directions.

[0107] Further, the case 22 has a plurality of cylindrical boss portions 223 (see FIG. 3) protruding from its bottom surface 22A. The plurality of boss portions 223 come into contact with the back surface of the substrate 7 to perform stable positioning of the substrate 7 in the rear direction.

[0108] Further, as described above, the case 22 has four claw portions 225 (see FIG. 12) that are respectively hooked into four hole portions 215A of the cover 21 on the outer surfaces of the upper and lower ends of its peripheral edge 22B.

[0109] (2-2-3) Substrate and Mounted Components The substrate 7 is a single printed wiring board. The substrate 7 has a first mounting surface 7A (front surface) and a second mounting surface 7B (rear surface) on the side opposite to the first mounting surface 7A. A plurality of electronic components (mounted components) are mounted on the first mounting surface 7A and the second mounting surface 7B. The plurality of electronic components include eight switches 6, eight light-emitting groups G1, two communication light-emitting parts X1, two communication light-receiving parts Y1, and a quick-connection terminal block 8. Further, the plurality of electronic components include electronic components and the like that respectively constitute a signal processing unit 15, a setting communication unit 16, a communication unit 17, a storage unit 18, and a power supply unit 19.

[0110] As shown in FIG. 2, the eight switches 6 are provided on the substrate 7. In a front view of the first mounting surface 7A (front surface), the eight switches 6 are divided into two rows of four each and arranged vertically. The eight switches 6 are switches having the same structure as each other. In the present embodiment, each switch 6 is a so-called tactile switch that turns on when pressed and turns off when released. The eight switches 6 are surface-mounted on the first mounting surface 7A (front surface).

[0111] Hereinafter, the four switches 6 in the right column may be referred to as "first switches 61", and the four switches 6 in the left column may be referred to as "second switches 62".

[0112] Hereinafter, the first switches 61 and the second switches 62 in the first row from the top may be collectively referred to as "first switch group 6A", and the first switches 61 and the second switches 62 in the second row from the top may be collectively referred to as "second switch group 6B" (see FIG. 2). Also, the first switches 61 and the second switches 62 in the third row from the top may be collectively referred to as "third switch group 6C", and the first switches 61 and the second switches 62 in the fourth row from the top may be collectively referred to as "fourth switch group 6D" (see FIG. 2).

[0113] The first switch group 6A is arranged corresponding to the first operation unit 3A. In the first operation unit 3A, when the vicinity of the right end of the operation surface 31A (the surface 40) receives a pressing operation, the first switch 61 of the first switch group 6A is turned on. Also, when the vicinity of the left end of the operation surface 31A (the surface 40) receives a pressing operation, the second switch 62 of the first switch group 6A is turned on.

[0114] The second switch group 6B is arranged corresponding to the second operation unit 3B. In the second operation unit 3B, when the vicinity of the right end of the operation surface 31A (the surface 40) receives a pressing operation, the first switch 61 of the second switch group 6B is turned on. Also, when the vicinity of the left end of the operation surface 31A (the surface 40) receives a pressing operation, the second switch 62 of the second switch group 6B is turned on.

[0115] The third switch group 6C is arranged corresponding to the third operation unit 3C. In the third operation unit 3C, when the vicinity of the right end of the operation surface 31A (the surface 40) receives a pressing operation, the first switch 61 of the third switch group 6C is turned on. Also, when the vicinity of the left end of the operation surface 31A (the surface 40) receives a pressing operation, the second switch 62 of the third switch group 6C is turned on.

[0116] The fourth switch group 6D is arranged corresponding to the fourth operation unit 3D. In the fourth operation unit 3D, when the vicinity of the right end of the operation surface 31A (the surface 40) receives a pressing operation, the first switch 61 of the fourth switch group 6D is turned on. Also, when the vicinity of the left end of the operation surface 31A (the surface 40) receives a pressing operation, the second switch 62 of the fourth switch group 6D is turned on.

[0117] Each time the operation unit 3 receives a pressing operation and the corresponding switch 6 is turned on, the communication unit 17 transmits an operation signal to the communication device 111. That is, the communication unit 17 transmits an operation signal to the communication device 111 based on the operation received by the operation unit 3. Also, the communication unit 17 receives a state signal regarding the state of the load L1.

[0118] The eight light-emitting groups G1 of the light-emitting unit 10 are provided on the substrate 7 as shown in FIG. 2. A plurality (here, eight) of light-emitting groups G1 are arranged so as to respectively correspond to a plurality (here, four) of operation units 3. That is, here, as an example, two left and right light-emitting groups G1 are arranged to correspond to one operation unit 3.

[0119] Each light-emitting group G1 has a first light-emitting part 11 and a second light-emitting part 12. That is, the operating device 1 includes the first light-emitting part 11 and the second light-emitting part 12. Each of the first light-emitting part 11 and the second light-emitting part 12 emits visible light. That is, each light-emitting group G1 constitutes a visible light-emitting unit. The light-emitting group G1 is housed inside the housing 2. In other words, the first light-emitting part 11 and the second light-emitting part 12 are housed inside the housing 2.

[0120] The first light-emitting part 11 and the second light-emitting part 12 of each light-emitting group G1 are arranged adjacent to each other and vertically in the order of the second light-emitting part 12 and the first light-emitting part 11 from above.

[0121] Further, the first light-emitting part 11 and the second light-emitting part 12 of each light-emitting group G1 are arranged so as to be aligned in the longitudinal direction (here, the vertical direction) of the (corresponding) housing-side opening 20 (see FIGS. 13A and 13B). Therefore, it is easy to reduce the size of the operating device 1 in a direction (for example, the left-right direction) intersecting the longitudinal direction of the housing-side opening 20.

[0122] Hereinafter, the left and right light-emitting groups G1 in the first row from above may be referred to as "first visible light part 10A", and the left and right light-emitting groups G1 in the second row from above may be referred to as "second visible light part 10B" (see FIG. 2). Further, the left and right light-emitting groups G1 in the third row from above may be referred to as "third visible light part 10C", and the left and right light-emitting groups G1 in the fourth row from above may be referred to as "fourth visible light part 10D" (see FIG. 2).

[0123] The first light-emitting unit 11 (see FIGS. 1, 2, and 5) may include one or more light-emitting elements and a lens unit that covers the light-emitting elements. The light-emitting elements are, for example, LED (Light Emitting Diode) elements. The first light-emitting unit 11 is, for example, a package-type LED module and is surface-mounted on the first mounting surface 7A (front surface).

[0124] When the state of the load L1 is in the first state in the state signal received by the communication unit 17, the first light-emitting unit 11 emits light in a specific color other than white. Here, as an example, the specific color is a warm color and is red. Here, as an example, when the corresponding lighting load A1 (load L1) is in the lit state (which may be a dimming lit state), the first light-emitting unit 11 emits red light. For example, the first light-emitting unit 11 includes one or more red LED elements. However, the specific color is not limited to red as long as it is other than white. The specific color may be a warm color and may be green. Also, the specific color is not limited to warm colors. The specific color may be a cool color (e.g., blue). In other words, the specific color may be a warm color or a cool color.

[0125] The second light-emitting unit 12 (see FIGS. 1, 2, and 5) may include one or more light-emitting elements and a lens unit that covers the light-emitting elements. The light-emitting elements are, for example, LED elements. The second light-emitting unit 12 is, for example, a package-type LED module and is surface-mounted on the first mounting surface 7A (front surface).

[0126] When the state of the load L1 is in the second state different from the first state in the state signal received by the communication unit 17, the second light-emitting unit 12 emits white light. Here, as an example, when the corresponding lighting load A1 (load L1) is in the off state, the second light-emitting unit 12 emits white light. The second light-emitting unit 12 may include, for example, red, green, and blue LED elements, and white light may be emitted from the lens unit by a combination of the emission colors of these LED elements. Alternatively, the second light-emitting unit 12 may generate white light using a phosphor. For example, the second light-emitting unit 12 may include a blue LED element and a yellow phosphor, and white light may be emitted from the lens unit by a combination of blue light and yellow light generated by exciting the blue light with the phosphor.

[0127] The left and right first visible light parts 10A are arranged corresponding to the first operation part 3A. Between the left and right first visible light parts 10A, a first switch 61 and a second switch 62 pushed by the first operation part 3A are located. The right first visible light part 10A faces the right opening part 20A and further faces the first opening part 301 of the first operation part 3A. The visible light from the right first visible light part 10A is led out to the outside from the first optical member 41 on the right side of the first operation part 3A. The left first visible light part 10A faces the left opening part 20A and further faces the second opening part 302 of the first operation part 3A. The visible light from the left first visible light part 10A is led out to the outside from the first optical member 41 on the left side of the first operation part 3A.

[0128] The left and right second visible light parts 10B are arranged corresponding to the second operation part 3B. Between the left and right second visible light parts 10B, a first switch 61 and a second switch 62 pushed by the second operation part 3B are located. The right second visible light part 10B faces the right opening part 20B and further faces the first opening part 301 of the second operation part 3B. The visible light from the right second visible light part 10B is led out to the outside from the first optical member 41 on the right side of the second operation part 3B. The left second visible light part 10B faces the left opening part 20B and further faces the second opening part 302 of the second operation part 3B. The visible light from the left second visible light part 10B is led out to the outside from the first optical member 41 on the left side of the second operation part 3B.

[0129] The left and right third visible light units 10C are arranged corresponding to the third operation unit 3C. Between the left and right third visible light units 10C, a first switch 61 and a second switch 62 pushed by the third operation unit 3C are located. The right third visible light unit 10C faces the right opening 20C and further faces the first opening 301 of the third operation unit 3C. Visible light from the right third visible light unit 10C is led out to the outside from the first optical member 41 on the right side of the third operation unit 3C. The left third visible light unit 10C faces the left opening 20C and further faces the second opening 302 of the third operation unit 3C. Visible light from the left third visible light unit 10C is led out to the outside from the first optical member 41 on the left side of the third operation unit 3C.

[0130] The left and right fourth visible light units 10D are arranged corresponding to the fourth operation unit 3D. Between the left and right fourth visible light units 10D, a first switch 61 and a second switch 62 pushed by the fourth operation unit 3D are located. The right fourth visible light unit 10D faces the right opening 20D and further faces the first opening 301 of the fourth operation unit 3D. Visible light from the right fourth visible light unit 10D is led out to the outside from the first optical member 41 on the right side of the fourth operation unit 3D. The left fourth visible light unit 10D faces the left opening 20D and further faces the second opening 302 of the fourth operation unit 3D. Visible light from the left fourth visible light unit 10D is led out to the outside from the first optical member 41 on the left side of the fourth operation unit 3D.

[0131] The two communication light emitting units X1 (see FIGS. 1, 2, and 5) emit light for communication. The light for communication is, for example, infrared light. The communication light emitting unit X1 is an infrared light emitting unit. However, the light for communication may also be visible light. Each communication light emitting unit X1 has an infrared light emitting diode as an infrared emitter. Each communication light emitting unit X1 is, for example, a package-type module and is surface-mounted on the first mounting surface 7A (front surface). Here, the two communication light emitting units X1 are modules having the same structure as each other.

[0132] In the present embodiment, the two communication light emitting units X1 are arranged separately left and right at the lower part of the first mounting surface 7A so as to correspond to the fourth operation unit 3D.

[0133] Specifically, the right communication light-emitting unit X1 is disposed adjacent to and below the first light-emitting unit 11 of the fourth visible light unit 10D on the right side, faces the right opening 20D, and further faces the first opening 301 of the fourth operation unit 3D. The infrared light emitted from the right communication light-emitting unit X1 is led out to the outside from the first optical member 41 on the right side of the fourth operation unit 3D.

[0134] The left communication light-emitting unit X1 is disposed adjacent to and below the first light-emitting unit 11 of the fourth visible light unit 10D on the left side, faces the left opening 20D, and further faces the second opening 302 of the fourth operation unit 3D. The infrared light emitted from the left communication light-emitting unit X1 is led out to the outside from the first optical member 41 on the left side of the fourth operation unit 3D.

[0135] As a result, the infrared signal transmitted from the setting communication unit 16 via the infrared light-emitting diode of each communication light-emitting unit X1 can be received by the setter 500.

[0136] The two communication light-receiving units Y1 (see FIGS. 1, 2, and 5) receive communication light. The communication light is, for example, infrared light. The communication light-receiving unit Y1 is an infrared light-receiving unit. However, the communication light may also be visible light. Each communication light-receiving unit Y1 includes an infrared light-receiving element and an optical lens unit that covers the infrared light-receiving element. Each communication light-receiving unit Y1 is, for example, a package-type module and is surface-mounted on the first mounting surface 7A (front surface). Here, the two communication light-receiving units Y1 are modules having the same structure as each other. The infrared light-receiving element receives the infrared light condensed by the optical lens unit and converts it into an electrical signal. The infrared signal transmitted from the setter 500 can be received by the setting communication unit 16 via the infrared light-receiving element.

[0137] In the present embodiment, the two communication light-receiving units Y1 are arranged separately left and right at the lower part of the first mounting surface 7A so as to correspond to the fourth operation unit 3D.

[0138] Specifically, the right communication light-receiving unit Y1 is disposed adjacent to the second light-emitting unit 12 of the fourth visible light unit 10D on the right side, faces the right opening 20D, and further faces the first opening 301 of the fourth operation unit 3D. The infrared light (infrared signal) sent from the setter 500 toward the first opening 301 of the fourth operation unit 3D passes through the first optical member 41 on the right side of the fourth operation unit 3D and is received by the right communication light-receiving unit Y1.

[0139] The left communication light-receiving unit Y1 is disposed adjacent to the second light-emitting unit 12 of the fourth visible light unit 10D on the left side, faces the left opening 20D, and further faces the second opening 302 of the fourth operation unit 3D. The infrared light (infrared signal) sent from the setter 500 toward the second opening 302 of the fourth operation unit 3D passes through the first optical member 41 on the left side of the fourth operation unit 3D and is received by the left communication light-receiving unit Y1.

[0140] In short, the right communication light-receiving unit Y1, the second light-emitting unit 12 of the fourth visible light unit 10D on the right side, the first light-emitting unit 11, and the right communication light-emitting unit X1 are arranged in a column in the vertical direction in this order from top to bottom, and all of them face the right opening 20D. In other words, the fourth visible light unit 10D on the right side is arranged to be located between the right communication light-receiving unit Y1 and the right communication light-emitting unit X1.

[0141] Similarly, the left communication light-receiving unit Y1, the second light-emitting unit 12 of the fourth visible light unit 10D on the left side, the first light-emitting unit 11, and the left communication light-emitting unit X1 are arranged in a column in the vertical direction in this order from top to bottom, and all of them face the left opening 20D. In other words, the fourth visible light unit 10D on the left side is arranged to be located between the left communication light-receiving unit Y1 and the left communication light-emitting unit X1.

[0142] However, the arrangement order of the communication light emitting unit X1, the communication light receiving unit Y1, the first light emitting unit 11, and the second light emitting unit 12 is not limited to the above order. For example, the communication light emitting unit X1 and the communication light receiving unit Y1 may be arranged between the first light emitting unit 11 and the second light emitting unit 12. Also, only one of the first light emitting unit 11 and the second light emitting unit 12 may be arranged between the communication light emitting unit X1 and the communication light receiving unit Y1, and the other may be arranged outside.

[0143] (2-2-4) Mounting Frame The mounting frame 5 is a member to which the four operating units 3 and the housing 2 are attached. As shown in FIG. 4, the mounting frame 5 is formed in a rectangular frame shape having an opening 50 for accommodating the housing 2 at its central portion. The mounting frame 5 is made of, for example, metal. The mounting frame 5 has the same dimensions as the mounting frame for the three switches as described above. The mounting frame 5 has a plurality of mounting holes 51 (see FIG. 4) to which the eight mounting claws 216A of the housing 2 are hooked as described above. Note that the mounting frame 5 may not be a component of the operating device 1.

[0144] The mounting frame 5 can be screwed to a mounting member such as a switch box. That is, for example, a construction hole is formed in a mounting object such as a wall, and a mounting member such as an embedded switch box is arranged on the back side (inside the wall) of the mounting object. The operating device 1 is attached to the mounting object through the construction hole by screwing the mounting frame 5 to the mounting member. Note that a decorative plate K1 (see FIG. 16) can be attached around the front surface of the operating device 1 so as to conceal the construction hole or the like.

[0145] (2-2-5) Quick Connect Terminal Block The quick connect terminal block 8 is mounted on the second mounting surface 7B (back surface) of the substrate 7. The quick connect terminal block 8 houses one or a plurality (here, four) of quick connect terminals inside. In the present embodiment, the quick connect terminal block 8 has four quick connect terminals corresponding to a pair of first connection terminals 81 and a pair of second connection terminals 82. And the quick connect terminal block 8 has four wire insertion holes 80 (see FIG. 6) for introducing the four transmission lines 112 wired from the switch box side to the four quick connect terminals respectively.

[0146] The back surface 22C of the case 22 (see FIG. 6) has a window hole for exposing the quick-connection terminal block 8 to the outside of the housing 2. The quick-connection terminal block 8 is inserted into the window hole of the case 22 in a state of being mounted on the substrate 7 and is exposed to the outside so as to protrude rearward from the back surface 22C.

[0147] (2-3) Setter The setter 500 has a microcomputer having, for example, a processor and a memory. Then, by the processor executing a program stored in the memory, the microcomputer functions as the setter 500. The program executed by the processor is recorded in advance in the memory of the microcomputer here, but may be recorded and provided on a non-transitory recording medium such as a memory card, or may be provided through an electric communication line such as the Internet.

[0148] The setter 500 (dedicated remote control) has an elongated cylindrical housing as shown in FIG. 16. The setter 500 is battery-driven, for example. An operation unit 501 for receiving an operation related to the setting of the load address is provided on one surface of the housing of the setter 500. The operation unit 501 has a plurality of operation buttons. The operation unit 501 is provided on the first end side in the longitudinal direction of the housing. Also, a communication module 502 for performing infrared communication with the operator 1 is housed at the second end in the longitudinal direction of the housing of the setter 500. The communication module 502 includes an infrared light emitting element for transmitting infrared rays and an infrared light receiving element for receiving infrared rays.

[0149] (2-4) Operation of the operator Hereinafter, the operation of the operator 1 will be described by dividing it into a load address setting operation, a first operation, and a second operation.

[0150] [Load address setting operation] The user can set a load address to a plurality of switches 6 provided in the operator 1 using the setter 500.

[0151] In this embodiment, the operating device 1 is provided with eight switches 6, and separate load addresses can be set for the four switches 6 on the right side and the four switches 6 on the left side, respectively.

[0152] When setting the load address of the switches 6 on the right side, the user uses the setter 500 to perform the load address setting operation with the second end of the housing in which the communication module 502 is housed facing the first optical member 41 on the right side of the fourth operation unit 3D. After the user operates the operation unit 501 to input the load address and then operates the load address transmission button, the load address is transmitted from the communication module 502 to the operating device 1 as an infrared signal. The infrared signal transmitted from the communication module 502 is received by the communication light receiving unit Y1 on the right side through the first optical member 41 on the right side. When the communication light receiving unit Y1 on the right side of the operating device 1 receives the infrared signal from the setter 500, the signal processing unit 15 of the operating device 1 sets the load address of the switches 6 on the right side based on the received infrared signal and stores it in the storage unit 18.

[0153] When setting the load address of the switches 6 on the left side, the user uses the setter 500 to perform the load address setting operation with the second end of the housing in which the communication module 502 is housed facing the first optical member 41 on the left side of the fourth operation unit 3D. After the user operates the operation unit 501 to input the load address and then operates the load address transmission button, the load address is transmitted from the communication module 502 to the operating device 1 as an infrared signal. The infrared signal transmitted from the communication module 502 is received by the communication light receiving unit Y1 on the left side through the first optical member 41 on the left side. When the communication light receiving unit Y1 on the left side of the operating device 1 receives the infrared signal from the setter 500, the signal processing unit 15 of the operating device 1 sets the load address of the switches 6 on the left side based on the received infrared signal and stores it in the storage unit 18.

[0154] In short, the operating device 1 can set the load addresses of the four switches 6 (first switch 61) in the right one-column corresponding to the four operating parts 3 via the one communication light-emitting part X1 arranged on the right side corresponding to the fourth operating part 3D and the one communication light-receiving part Y1 arranged on the right side. Further, the operating device 1 can set the load addresses of the four switches 6 (second switch 62) in the left one-column corresponding to the four operating parts 3 via the one communication light-emitting part X1 arranged on the left side corresponding to the fourth operating part 3D and the one communication light-receiving part Y1 arranged on the left side.

[0155] [First operation (right-side operation of the operating part)] First, the first operation when the user presses (operates) near the right end of the operation surface 31A (surface 40) in any one of the four operating parts 3 (for example, the fourth operating part 3D) will be described.

[0156] When the vicinity of the right end of the operation surface 31A (surface 40) of the fourth operating part 3D is pressed, the first switch 61 corresponding to the fourth operating part 3D is turned on. As a result, the operating device 1 transmits an operation signal to the communication device 111 in response to the first switch 61 corresponding to the fourth operating part 3D being turned on (once). By the user performing a series of operations of pressing the operation surface 31A (surface 40) to tilt the operation surface 31A (surface 40) and then releasing the pressure so that the operation surface 31A (surface 40) returns to its original state, the operation signal is transmitted once as "one-time on operation of the switch 6".

[0157] On the one hand, when the communication device 111 receives an operation signal, if the load L1 (here, the lighting load A1) set for the first switch 61 is in the second state (here, the off state), it controls to switch the load L1 from the second state to the first state (here, the on state) in response to the reception of the operation signal. Further, when the communication device 111 receives an operation signal, if the load L1 (lighting load A1) set for the first switch 61 is in the first state (on state), it controls to switch the load L1 from the first state to the second state (off state) in response to the reception of the operation signal. When the communication device 111 receives a state signal regarding the state of the load L1 (after switching) from the control terminal device 9 associated with the first switch 61, it returns this state signal to the operator 1 that is the transmission source of the operation signal.

[0158] The operator 1 receives a state signal regarding the state of the load L1 set for the first switch 61 corresponding to the fourth operation unit 3D from the communication device 111.

[0159] When the state of the load L1 (lighting load A1) in the received state signal is the first state (on state), the operator 1 causes the first light emitting unit 11 on the right side (corresponding to the fourth operation unit 3D) to emit light (here, red light emission). As a result, red light passes through the right opening 20D (housing side opening 20) and the right first opening 301 (operation unit side opening 30X), and is led out from the right first optical member 41. That is, the vicinity of the right end of the fourth operation unit 3D glows red. In this embodiment, at this time, the second light emitting unit 12 on the right side does not emit light. That is, when the vicinity of the right end of the fourth operation unit 3D glows red, it does not glow white. However, the second light emitting unit 12 may emit light slightly to such an extent that a person cannot visually recognize that it is emitting light with the naked eye. In short, the second light emitting unit 12 does not emit light (or may emit light with a lower light output than in the case of the second state) when the state of the load L1 is the first state.

[0160] On one hand, when the state of the load L1 (lighting load A1) in the received state signal is the second state (off state), the operator 1 causes the second light-emitting part 12 on the right side (corresponding to the fourth operation part 3D) to emit light (white light emission). As a result, white light passes through the right opening 20D (housing-side opening 20) and the right first opening 301 (operation part-side opening 30X), and is led out from the right first optical member 41. That is, the vicinity of the right end of the fourth operation part 3D glows white. In the present embodiment, at this time, the first light-emitting part 11 on the right side does not emit light. That is, when the vicinity of the right end of the fourth operation part 3D is glowing white, it does not glow red. However, the first light-emitting part 11 may emit light slightly to such an extent that a person cannot visually recognize that it is emitting light with the naked eye. In short, when the state of the load L1 is the second state, the first light-emitting part 11 does not emit light (or may emit light with a lower light output than in the first state).

[0161] In this way, each housing-side opening 20 can emit the light of a specific color emitted from the corresponding first light-emitting part 11 and the white light emitted from the corresponding second light-emitting part 12. Therefore, for example, it is easier to reduce the size of the operator 1 compared to the case where the light from the first light-emitting part 11 and the light from the second light-emitting part 12 are emitted from separate openings.

[0162] [Second operation (left-side operation of the operation part)] Next, the second operation when the user presses (operates) the vicinity of the left end of the operation surface 31A (surface 40) of any one of the four operation parts 3 (for example, the fourth operation part 3D) will be described.

[0163] When the vicinity of the left end of the operation surface 31A (surface 40) of the fourth operation part 3D is pressed, the second switch 62 corresponding to the fourth operation part 3D is turned on. As a result, the operator 1 transmits an operation signal to the communication device 111 in response to the second switch 62 corresponding to the fourth operation part 3D being turned on (once).

[0164] On the one hand, when the communication device 111 receives an operation signal, if the load L1 (here, the lighting load A1) set on the second switch 62 is in the second state (here, the off state), the communication device 111 performs control to switch the load L1 from the second state to the first state (here, the on state) in response to the reception of the operation signal. Also, when the communication device 111 receives an operation signal, if the load L1 (lighting load A1) set on the second switch 62 is in the first state (on state), the communication device 111 performs control to switch the load L1 from the first state to the second state (off state) in response to the reception of the operation signal. When the communication device 111 receives a state signal regarding the state of the load L1 (after switching) from the control terminal device 9 associated with the second switch 62, the communication device 111 returns this state signal to the operator 1 that is the transmission source of the operation signal.

[0165] The operator 1 receives a state signal regarding the state of the load L1 set on the second switch 62 corresponding to the fourth operation unit 3D from the communication device 111.

[0166] When the state of the load L1 (lighting load A1) in the received state signal is in the first state (on state), the operator 1 causes the first light emitting unit 11 on the left side (corresponding to the fourth operation unit 3D) to emit light (here, red light emission). As a result, the red light passes through the left opening 20D (housing side opening 20) and the left second opening 302 (operation unit side opening 30X), and is derived from the left first optical member 41. That is, the vicinity of the left end of the fourth operation unit 3D lights up red. In the present embodiment, at this time, the second light emitting unit 12 on the left side does not emit light (or may emit light slightly).

[0167] On the one hand, when the state of the load L1 (lighting load A1) in the received state signal is the second state (turned-off state), the operator 1 causes the left-side second light-emitting part 12 (corresponding to the fourth operation part 3D) to emit light (white light emission). As a result, white light passes through the left-side opening 20D (housing-side opening 20) and the left-side second opening 302 (operation part-side opening 30X), and is led out from the left-side first optical member 41. That is, the vicinity of the left end of the fourth operation part 3D lights up white. In the present embodiment, at this time, the left-side first light-emitting part 11 does not emit light (or may emit light slightly).

[0168] (2-5) Advantages In this way, with the operator 1, depending on whether one end side or the other end side of one operation part 3 is pressed, either one of the two different switches 6 is turned on, and the state of the load L1 set for the turned-on switch 6 can be individually switched.

[0169] In particular, with the operator 1, the first light-emitting part 11 emits light in red (a specific color) when the state of the load L1 is the first state. The second light-emitting part 12 emits light in white when the state of the load L1 is the second state. That is, the operator 1 presents (displays) the two states of the load L1 by red and white light emissions. Therefore, for example, even when the user of the operator 1 has a color vision deficiency, it becomes easier to visually judge the state of the load L1 compared to the case where red and green light emission colors are presented.

[0170] Specifically, there are two types of photoreceptor cells, rods and cones, in the retina at the back of the human eye. There are three types of cones: L-cones, M-cones, and S-cones. L-cones have a visual pigment that is highly sensitive to light near long wavelengths mainly in yellow-green to red (absorption maximum 558 nm). M-cones have a visual pigment that is highly sensitive to light near medium wavelengths mainly in green to orange (absorption maximum 531 nm). S-cones have a visual pigment that is highly sensitive to light near short wavelengths mainly in purple to blue (absorption maximum 419 nm).

[0171] Normal color vision individuals belong to the C-type color vision that has all three types of L-cones, M-cones, and S-cones. However, individuals with color vision deficiencies are classified into one of the P-type color vision, D-type color vision, T-type color vision, etc., due to the absence of any one of the L-cones, M-cones, S-cones, or the weak function of a certain cone. Among them, it is said that individuals belonging to "P-type color vision" or "D-type color vision" perceive "green-based" and "red-based" hues as similar.

[0172] In contrast, different from Patent Document 1, the operating device 1 presents (displays) the two states of the load L1 with a combination of emission colors of "specific color" and "white" instead of the combination of emission colors of "red" and "green". As a result, even for a user with color vision deficiency, it is easier to distinguish between "specific color" and "white", and the operating device 1 has the advantage of making it easier to visually judge the state of the load L1.

[0173] In particular, the second light emitting unit 12 emits light in "white" which is easily recognizable by people with any type of color vision, presenting that the state of the load L1 is the second state. As a result, the user can more easily visually judge the state of the load L1. White light can be generated, for example, by a method using excitation of a yellow phosphor by a blue LED, a method using excitation of red, blue, and green phosphors by a purple LED or ultraviolet light, etc., but the type of phosphor, etc. is not particularly limited as long as it can be judged as white light by the naked eye.

[0174] (2-6) Another example of the housing side opening By the way, in the examples shown in FIGS. 10 and 13A, the housing side opening 20 is configured as one opening. However, for example, as shown in FIG. 13C, the housing side opening 20 may have a first opening 201 and a second opening 202. The first opening 201 may be capable of emitting light of a specific color emitted from the first light emitting unit 11. The second opening 202 may be capable of emitting white light emitted from the second light emitting unit 12. In the example of FIG. 13C, since the light of a specific color and the white light are emitted from separate openings (201, 202) respectively, it becomes easier to visually judge the state of the load L1.

[0175] (Modification Example 1) Hereinafter, an operating device 1A, which is a modification of the operating device 1 according to the above embodiment, will be described with reference to FIGS. 17 to 25B. In the following, for the operating device 1A according to this modification example (Modification Example 1), the same reference numerals may be given to the components similar to those of the operating device 1, and the description thereof may be omitted as appropriate.

[0176] The operating device 1 includes four operating parts 3 corresponding to a caster-type operating handle, while the operating device 1A is different from the operating device 1 in that it includes four operating parts 3 corresponding to a cantilever-type operating handle. Also, the number of switches 6 and the like provided in the operating device 1A is different from that of the operating device 1. In the following, when the four operating parts 3 of the operating device 1A are described separately from each other, they may be referred to as the first operating part 3E, the second operating part 3F, the third operating part 3G, and the fourth operating part 3H in order from the top (see FIG. 17).

[0177] Hereinafter, the configuration of the operating device 1A (operating terminal) will be described in detail. In the following, the direction of the operating device 1A may be defined and described based on the arrows in the up-down direction, left-right direction, and front-back direction without the entities shown in FIGS. 17 and 19, but this is not intended to limit the usage direction of the operating device 1A.

[0178] The operating device 1A includes a housing 2, one or more (four in FIG. 17) operating parts 3 (operating handles), one or more (four in FIG. 18) (push-button) switches 6, a substrate 7, a mounting frame 5, and a quick-connect terminal block 8 (see FIG. 19). The operating device 1A also includes a signal processing unit 15, a display light-emitting unit 10 (display unit), a setting communication unit 16, a communication unit 17 that communicates with a communication device 111, a storage unit 18, and a power supply unit 19 (see FIG. 15).

[0179] The display light-emitting unit 10 of the operating device 1A includes one or more (four in FIG. 18) light-emitting groups G1. As shown in FIG. 18, each light-emitting group G1 includes a first light-emitting part 11 and a second light-emitting part 12.

[0180] The communication unit 16 for setting the operator 1A includes one or more (one in FIG. 18) light-emitting units X1 for communication and one or more (one in FIG. 18) light-receiving units Y1 for communication. The communication unit 16 for setting communicates with a setter 500 (see FIG. 16) for address setting.

[0181] Each operation unit 3 corresponds to a cantilever-type operation handle in which one of the left and right ends (here, the left end) is supported by the housing 2, and when the other end (here, the right end) is pressed, the other end is displaced backward with the one end as a fulcrum. The number of switches 6 pressed by each operation unit 3 is one (that is, a total of four for the entire operator 1A). One switch 6 corresponding to each operation unit 3 is arranged on the right side on the first mounting surface 7A of the substrate 7.

[0182] Each operation unit 3 receives an operation for switching the state of a load L1 (for example, the lighting load A1 or the relay Ry1 shown in FIG. 14). In this modification, each operation unit 3 can switch the state of the corresponding load L1 by turning on the switch 6 arranged on the right side on the first mounting surface 7A. The four operation units 3 are arranged side by side in the vertical direction in a front view. Each operation unit 3 of this modification includes a main body portion 31, a name plate 32, a lid portion 33, and an optical member 4A as shown in FIGS. 19 to 22.

[0183] The main body portion 31 has an opening 30 that is long in the left - right direction when viewed from the front. As shown in FIG. 25B, the opening 30 includes a first opening 301 on the right side and a third opening 303 located in the center when viewed from the front. That is, unlike the operating device 1, the left - hand second opening 302 is not provided in the main body portion 31 of this modified example. The first opening 301 and the third opening 303 are spatially connected. Note that the "operating - part - side opening 30X" in this modified example corresponds to the first opening 301 on the right side as shown in FIG. 25B. In other words, the operating part 3 of this modified example has the operating - part - side opening 30X. Also in this modified example, the operating - part - side opening 30X is formed in a slit shape and can emit light (such as light from the first light - emitting part 11 and the second light - emitting part 12) emitted from the housing - side opening 20 of the housing 2. Also in this modified example, the first light - emitting part 11 and the second light - emitting part 12 are arranged so as to be aligned in the longitudinal direction (here, the vertical direction) of the (corresponding) operating - part - side opening 30X (see FIG. 25B).

[0184] In this modified example, when the user presses a region near the right - hand end of the operation surface 31A (surface 40) of the operating part 3 with a fingertip or the like, a pressing operation on the operating part 3 is performed.

[0185] The main body portion 31 has a locking portion 311 corresponding to the mounting portion 3X at the right - hand end of its back surface 31B (see FIGS. 20, 21, and 22). The length of each locking piece 3100 of the locking portion 311 in this modified example is set shorter than that of each locking piece 3100 of the first locking portion 311 of the operating device 1.

[0186] The second locking portion 312 provided at the left - hand end of the back surface 31B in the operating device 1 is not provided in this modified example. Instead, in this modified example, the main body portion 31 has a holding portion 314A corresponding to the mounting portion 3X at the left - hand end of the back surface 31B (see FIGS. 21 and 22).

[0187] The holding part 314A holds the pair of rotating shafts 230A (see FIGS. 20 and 23) of the support part 23A provided on the cover 21 of the housing 2, respectively. The holding part 314A has a recess that is recessed forward, and the pair of rotating shafts 230A are fitted into the recess by press-fitting. In addition, a substantially rectangular leaf spring-like auxiliary member 24 (see FIGS. 20 and 22) is also fitted into the recess to assist the return of the operation part 3 after the pressing operation. As a result, the main body part 31 (that is, the operation part 3) is supported by the support part 23A, and the right end part of the operation part 3 can rotate within a predetermined angle range with the pair of rotating shafts 230A as fulcrums (see the double-headed arrow on the right side in the fourth operation part 3H shown in FIG. 24).

[0188] In short, in this modification example, the operation part 3 has an attachment part 3X for attaching to the housing 2, and the attachment part 3X includes the above-described locking part 311 and the holding part 314A.

[0189] The optical member 4A of this modification example is formed in an L-shaped plate shape as a whole. Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 20 to 22, the optical member 4A includes a first optical member 41 on the right side that covers the first opening 301 (see FIG. 25B), and a second optical member 42 that covers the central third opening 303 (see FIG. 25B). That is, the first optical member 41 on the left side provided on the optical member 4 of the operating device 1 is not provided on the optical member 4A of this modification example. The first optical member 41 on the right side and the second optical member 42 are formed as one continuous and integral member, but they may also be separate members from each other.

[0190] Among the four operation parts 3, only the fourth operation part 3H can pass the light (infrared light) from the communication light emitting part X1 (see FIG. 18) and the light (infrared light) directed to the communication light receiving part Y1 (see FIG. 18) through the first optical member 41 on the right side in addition to the visible light from the first light emitting part 11 and the second light emitting part 12.

[0191] When attaching the operation unit 3 configured as described above to the housing 2, for example, while inserting each locking piece 3100 of the locking portion 311 into the corresponding locking hole 212 (see FIG. 23) from the front, the operation unit 3 is pushed backward so that the rotating shaft 230A is fitted into the depression of the holding portion 314A. As a result, the main body portion 31 is supported by the support portion 23A, and each locking piece 3100 is stably positioned within the locking hole 212.

[0192] Even if the main body portion 31 is pulled forward, the tip of the locking piece 3100 of the locking portion 311 is caught by the peripheral edge of the locking hole 212. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the main body portion 31 from coming off the support portion 23A. As a result, the operation unit 3 is prevented from falling off the housing 2.

[0193] As shown in FIGS. 23 and 25A, the cover 21 of this modification has one or a plurality (here, four) of support portions 23A arranged near the left end so as to be arranged in the vertical direction in a front view. As described above, each support portion 23A has a pair of rotating shafts 230A that fit into the depression of the corresponding operation unit 3.

[0194] Further, as shown in FIGS. 23 and 25A, the cover 21 of this modification has one or a plurality (here, four) of pressing portions 210 arranged so as to be arranged in the vertical direction in a front view. The four pressing portions 210 are arranged so as to correspond to the four support portions 23A, respectively. Each pressing portion 210 transmits a pressing operation from the operation unit 3 supported by the corresponding support portion 23A to the switch 6 (first switch 61) on the right side. As shown in FIG. 19, each pressing portion 210 has an extending portion 213 extending rightward and a pressing piece 211 provided on the back side of the tip portion 213A. The tip portion 213A of each extending portion 213 can move back and forth with the base as a fulcrum. As shown in FIG. 19, each extending portion 213 extends obliquely so as to protrude forward from the base toward the tip portion 213A. Therefore, when the user presses the operation surface 31A (surface 40) of the operation unit 3 with a fingertip or the like, an appropriate stress is received from the side of the extending portion 213. As a result, the operation feeling is improved.

[0195] For example, when the vicinity of the right side of the operation surface 31A (front surface 40) of a certain operation unit 3 is pressed, a pair of right-side contact portions 334 on the back surface of the lid portion 33 of the operation unit 3 transmit the pressure to the surface of the tip portion 213A of the extension portion 213. As a result, the extension portion 213 bends backward due to elastic deformation, its tip portion 213A is displaced backward, and the tip of the pressing piece 211 presses the right-side switch 6. When the user's pressing operation ends, the extension portion 213 that has been pressed elastically returns, and the "pressing" of the switch 6 by its tip portion 213A is released.

[0196] Further, the cover 21 of this modification has one or more (here, a total of eight) locking holes 212 (see FIG. 23). The eight locking holes 212 (212A to 212H) are arranged in a single row in the vertical direction near the right end of the front surface 21A.

[0197] Two locking pieces 3100 provided on the main body portion 31 of the first operation unit 3E are respectively inserted into the locking holes 212A and 212B. Two locking pieces 3100 provided on the main body portion 31 of the second operation unit 3F are respectively inserted into the locking holes 212C and 212D. Two locking pieces 3100 provided on the main body portion 31 of the third operation unit 3G are respectively inserted into the locking holes 212E and 212F. Two locking pieces 3100 provided on the main body portion 31 of the fourth operation unit 3H are respectively inserted into the locking holes 212G and 212H.

[0198] Further, as shown in FIG. 23, the cover 21 of this modification has one or more (here, a total of four) housing-side openings 20. Each housing-side opening 20 penetrates the cover 21 in the front-rear direction. Each housing-side opening 20 is formed in a slit shape. Each housing-side opening 20 is long in the vertical direction. As shown in FIG. 23, the four housing-side openings 20 (20A to 20D) are arranged in the vertical direction between the eight locking holes 212A to 212H in the right column and the four pressing portions 210 arranged in the center in the front view of the front surface 21A. Each of the four operation units 3 is arranged so as to cover the corresponding right-side housing-side opening 20. That is, the operation unit 3 is arranged so as to cover the housing-side opening 20.

[0199] The first operation unit 3E covers the opening 20A. In particular, in a front view, the opening 20A is arranged so as to overlap at least a part (here, generally all) of the first opening 301 on the right side of the first operation unit 3E.

[0200] The second operation unit 3F covers the opening 20B. In particular, in a front view, the opening 20B is arranged so as to overlap at least a part (here, generally all) of the first opening 301 on the right side of the second operation unit 3F.

[0201] The third operation unit 3G covers the opening 20C. In particular, in a front view, the opening 20C is arranged so as to overlap at least a part (here, generally all) of the first opening 301 on the right side of the third operation unit 3G.

[0202] The fourth operation unit 3H covers the opening 20D. In particular, in a front view, the opening 20D is arranged so as to overlap at least a part (here, generally all) of the first opening 301 on the right side of the fourth operation unit 3H.

[0203] The four switches 6 of this modification example are provided on the substrate 7 as shown in FIG. 18. The four switches 6 are arranged in a row in the vertical direction at a position closer to the right end in a front view of the first mounting surface 7A (front surface). Each switch 6 is a so-called tactile switch that turns on when pressed and turns off when released.

[0204] The topmost switch 6 is arranged corresponding to the first operation unit 3E. In the first operation unit 3E, when the vicinity of the right end of the operation surface 31A (surface 40) receives a pressing operation, the switch 6 turns on.

[0205] The second switch 6 from the top is arranged corresponding to the second operation unit 3F. In the second operation unit 3F, when the vicinity of the right end of the operation surface 31A (surface 40) receives a pressing operation, the switch 6 turns on.

[0206] The third switch 6 from the top is arranged corresponding to the third operation unit 3G. In the third operation unit 3G, when the vicinity of the right end of the operation surface 31A (the front surface 40) receives a pressing operation, the switch 6 is turned on.

[0207] The fourth switch 6 from the top is arranged corresponding to the fourth operation unit 3H. In the fourth operation unit 3H, when the vicinity of the right end of the operation surface 31A (the front surface 40) receives a pressing operation, the switch 6 is turned on.

[0208] Each time the operation unit 3 receives a pressing operation and the corresponding switch 6 is turned on, the communication unit 17 transmits an operation signal to the communication device 111. That is, the communication unit 17 transmits an operation signal to the communication device 111 based on the operation received by the operation unit 3. Further, the communication unit 17 receives a state signal regarding the state of the load L1.

[0209] As shown in FIG. 18, the four light-emitting groups G1 of the light-emitting unit 10 for display in this modification are provided on the substrate 7. Here, the four light-emitting groups G1 are arranged so as to respectively correspond to the four operation units 3. That is, one light-emitting group G1 is arranged to correspond to one operation unit 3. The first light-emitting unit 11 and the second light-emitting unit 12 of each light-emitting group G1 are arranged so as to be aligned in the longitudinal direction (here, the vertical direction) of the (corresponding) housing-side opening 20 (see FIGS. 25A and 25B).

[0210] Also in this modification, when the state of the load L1 is the first state in the state signal received by the communication unit 17, the first light-emitting unit 11 emits light in red (a specific color). However, the specific color is not limited to red as long as it is other than white. The specific color is a warm color and may be green. Further, the specific color is not limited to warm colors. The specific color may be a cool color (for example, blue). In other words, the specific color can be a warm color or a cool color.

[0211] Also in this modification, when the state of the load L1 is the second state in the state signal received by the communication unit 17, the second light-emitting unit 12 emits light in white.

[0212] The first visible light unit 10A (see FIG. 18) is arranged corresponding to the first operation unit 3E. The first visible light unit 10A faces the opening 20A and further faces the first opening 301 of the first operation unit 3E. The visible light from the first visible light unit 10A is led out to the outside from the first optical member 41 of the first operation unit 3E.

[0213] The second visible light unit 10B (see FIG. 18) is arranged corresponding to the second operation unit 3F. The second visible light unit 10B faces the opening 20B and further faces the first opening 301 of the second operation unit 3F. The visible light from the second visible light unit 10B is led out to the outside from the first optical member 41 of the second operation unit 3F.

[0214] The third visible light unit 10C (see FIG. 18) is arranged corresponding to the third operation unit 3G. The third visible light unit 10C faces the opening 20C and further faces the first opening 301 of the third operation unit 3G. The visible light from the third visible light unit 10C is led out to the outside from the first optical member 41 of the third operation unit 3G.

[0215] The fourth visible light unit 10D (see FIG. 18) is arranged corresponding to the fourth operation unit 3H. The fourth visible light unit 10D faces the opening 20D and further faces the first opening 301 of the fourth operation unit 3H. The visible light from the fourth visible light unit 10D is led out to the outside from the first optical member 41 of the fourth operation unit 3H.

[0216] One communication light emitting unit X1 (see FIGS. 17, 18, 25A, and 25B) of this modification example is arranged adjacent to and under the first light emitting unit 11 of the fourth visible light unit 10D, faces the opening 20D, and further faces the first opening 301 of the fourth operation unit 3H. The infrared light emitted from the communication light emitting unit X1 is led out to the outside from the first optical member 41 of the fourth operation unit 3H. As a result, the infrared signal transmitted from the setting communication unit 16 via the infrared light emitting diode of the communication light emitting unit X1 can be received by the setter 500.

[0217] One light-receiving unit Y1 for communication in this modification example (see FIGS. 17, 18, 25A, and 25B) is arranged adjacent to and above the second light-emitting unit 12 of the fourth visible light unit 10D, faces the opening 20D, and further faces the first opening 301 of the fourth operation unit 3H. The infrared light (infrared signal) sent from the setter 500 toward the first opening 301 of the fourth operation unit 3H passes through the first optical member 41 of the fourth operation unit 3H and is received by the light-receiving unit Y1 for communication.

[0218] [Operation of Modification Example 1] The operation of the operating device 1A in this modification example will be described below.

[0219] When the user presses (operates) near the right end of the operation surface 31A (the surface 40) of any one of the four operation units 3 (for example, the fourth operation unit 3H), the switch 6 corresponding to the fourth operation unit 3H is turned on. As a result, the operating device 1A transmits an operation signal to the communication device 111 in response to the switch 6 corresponding to the fourth operation unit 3H being turned on (once).

[0220] On the other hand, when the communication device 111 receives the operation signal, if the load L1 (here, the lighting load A1) set for the above switch 6 is in the second state (here, the off state), the communication device 111 performs control to switch the load L1 from the second state to the first state (here, the on state) in response to the reception of the operation signal. Also, when the communication device 111 receives the operation signal, if the load L1 (the lighting load A1) set for the above switch 6 is in the first state (the on state), the communication device 111 performs control to switch the load L1 from the first state to the second state (the off state) in response to the reception of the operation signal. Then, the communication device 111 returns a state signal regarding the state of the load L1 (after switching) to the operating device 1A that is the transmission source of the operation signal.

[0221] The operating device 1A receives a state signal regarding the state of the load L1 set for the switch 6 corresponding to the fourth operation unit 3H from the communication device 111.

[0222] When the state of the load L1 (lighting load A1) in the received state signal is the first state (lit state), the operator 1A causes the first light-emitting unit 11 (corresponding to the fourth operation unit 3H) to emit light (red light emission here). As a result, red light is derived from the first optical member 41 through the opening 20D (housing-side opening 20) and the first opening 301 (operation unit-side opening 30X). That is, the vicinity of the right end of the fourth operation unit 3H lights up red. Also in this modified example, at this time, the second light-emitting unit 12 does not emit light. That is, when the vicinity of the right end of the fourth operation unit 3H is lit red, it does not light up white. However, the second light-emitting unit 12 may emit light slightly to such an extent that a person cannot visually recognize that it is emitting light with the naked eye.

[0223] On the other hand, when the state of the load L1 (lighting load A1) in the received state signal is the second state (extinguished state), the operator 1A causes the second light-emitting unit 12 (corresponding to the fourth operation unit 3H) to emit light (white light emission). As a result, white light is derived from the first optical member 41 through the opening 20D (housing-side opening 20) and the first opening 301 (operation unit-side opening 30X). That is, the vicinity of the right end of the fourth operation unit 3H lights up white. Also in this modified example, at this time, the first light-emitting unit 11 does not emit light. That is, when the vicinity of the right end of the fourth operation unit 3H is lit white, it does not light up red. However, the first light-emitting unit 11 may emit light slightly to such an extent that a person cannot visually recognize that it is emitting light with the naked eye.

[0224] In this way, with the operator 1A, by pressing one end side (here, the right end side) of the operation unit 3, the switch 6 is turned on, and the state of the load L1 set in the turned-on switch 6 can be individually switched.

[0225] In particular, also with the operator 1A, two states of the load L1 are presented (displayed) by red and white light emissions. Therefore, for example, even when the user of the operator 1A has a color vision defect, it becomes easier to visually determine the state of the load L1 compared to the case where red and green light emission colors are presented.

[0226] (Other modified examples) The operating devices 1, 1A, communication device 111 (control device), etc. in the present disclosure include a computer system. The computer system mainly includes a processor and a memory as hardware. By the processor executing a program recorded in the memory of the computer system, functions as the operating devices 1, 1A, communication device 111, etc. in the present disclosure are realized. The program may be pre-recorded in the memory of the computer system, may be provided through a telecommunication line, or may be provided by being recorded in a non-transitory recording medium such as a memory card, an optical disk, or a hard disk drive that can be read by the computer system. The processor of the computer system is composed of one or more electronic circuits including a semiconductor integrated circuit (IC) or a large-scale integrated circuit (LSI). Here, integrated circuits such as the IC or LSI mentioned here have different names depending on the degree of integration, and include integrated circuits called system LSI, VLSI (Very Large Scale Integration), or ULSI (Ultra Large Scale Integration). Furthermore, for an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) that is programmed after the manufacture of the LSI, or a logic device capable of reconfiguring the bonding relationship inside the LSI or reconfiguring the circuit section inside the LSI, it can also be adopted as a processor. The one or more electronic circuits may be integrated on one chip, or may be provided distributed on a plurality of chips. The plurality of chips may be integrated in one device, or may be provided distributed in a plurality of devices. The computer system mentioned here includes a microcontroller having one or more processors and one or more memories. Therefore, the microcontroller is also composed of one or more electronic circuits including a semiconductor integrated circuit or a large-scale integrated circuit.

[0227] Moreover, it is not an essential configuration that a plurality of functions in each of the operation devices 1, 1A, and the communication device 111, etc. are aggregated within one housing. Each component of the operation devices 1, 1A, and the communication device 111, etc. may be provided dispersedly in a plurality of housings. Conversely, a plurality of functions in each of the operation devices 1, 1A, and the communication device 111, etc. may be aggregated within one housing. Further, at least some functions of each of the operation devices 1, 1A, and the communication device 111, etc., for example, some functions of the communication device 111 may be realized by a cloud (cloud computing) or the like.

[0228] In the operation devices 1, 1A described above, the light-emitting part X1 for communication and the light-receiving part Y1 for communication for wireless communication with the setting device 500 are arranged so as to correspond to the lowermost operation part 3 (the fourth operation parts 3D, 3H) among the four operation parts. Therefore, the light-emitting part X1 for communication and the light-receiving part Y1 for communication are at a height position where it is easy for the user to perform address setting using the setting device 500. However, the light-emitting part X1 for communication and the light-receiving part Y1 for communication may be arranged so as to correspond to operation parts 3 other than the lowermost operation part 3 among the four operation parts (for example, the first operation parts 3A, 3E).

[0229] In the operation devices 1, 1A described above, the first light-emitting part 11 that emits light of a specific color (for example, red or green, etc.) and the second light-emitting part 12 that emits white light are arranged in a manner of being vertically adjacent to each other on the substrate 7. And the first optical member 41 within the vertically long operation part side opening 30X in each operation part 3 emits light in a combination of a specific color and white (for example, red and white, or green and white, etc.) vertically.

[0230] However, the light-emitting positions of a specific color and white are not limited to such an arrangement. For example, in each operation part 3, the position of the first light-emitting part 11 and the second light-emitting part 12 on the substrate 7 may be adjusted so that the right end of the optical member 4 emits light of a specific color, the left end of the optical member 4 emits white light, or each of the left and right ends of the optical member 4 emits light of a unified color.

[0231] Alternatively, the specific color and the white light emission positions may be provided on a member other than the operation unit 3. For example, a part of the cover 21 of the housing 2 is exposed around the left and right sides of the operation unit 3, and an optical member is embedded in the cover 21 so that the optical member emits light in a specific color and white. In this case, the positions of the first light emitting unit 11 and the second light emitting unit 12 on the substrate 7 may be adjusted.

[0232] Alternatively, for example, the first operation unit 3A may emit light in a specific color, and the second operation unit 3B may emit light in white, so that the light colors are unified for each unit of the operation unit 3.

[0233] (Summary) As described above, the operating device (1, 1A) according to the first aspect includes a housing (2), an operation unit (3), a communication unit (17), a first light emitting unit (11), and a second light emitting unit (12). The operation unit (3) is provided on the housing (2) and receives an operation for switching the state of the load (L1). The communication unit (17) transmits an operation signal based on the operation received by the operation unit (3) and receives a state signal regarding the state of the load (L1). The first light emitting unit (11) emits light in a specific color other than white when the state of the load (L1) is the first state in the state signal received by the communication unit (17). The second light emitting unit (12) emits light in white when the state of the load (L1) is a second state different from the first state in the state signal received by the communication unit (17).

[0234] According to the above aspect, the operating device (1, 1A) has the advantage that the state of the load (L1) can be easily visually determined.

[0235] Regarding the operating device (1, 1A) according to the second aspect, in the first aspect, the first light emitting unit (11) and the second light emitting unit (12) are housed inside the housing (2). The housing (2) has a housing-side opening (20) that can emit the light of a specific color emitted from the first light emitting unit (11) and the white light emitted from the second light emitting unit (12).

[0236] According to the above aspect, since light of a specific color and white light can be emitted from the housing-side opening (20), while reducing the size of the operating device (1, 1A) compared to the case where they are emitted from separate openings, the state of the load (L1) can be visually determined more easily.

[0237] Regarding the operating device (1, 1A) according to the third aspect, in the second aspect, the housing-side opening (20) has a first opening (201) and a second opening (202). The first opening (201) can emit light of a specific color emitted from the first light-emitting unit (11). The second opening (202) can emit white light emitted from the second light-emitting unit (12).

[0238] According to the above aspect, since light of a specific color and white light are emitted from separate openings respectively, the state of the load (L1) can be visually determined more easily.

[0239] Regarding the operating device (1, 1A) according to the fourth aspect, in the second aspect, the housing-side opening (20) is formed in a slit shape. The first light-emitting unit (11) and the second light-emitting unit (12) are arranged side by side in the longitudinal direction of the housing-side opening (20).

[0240] According to the above aspect, while making it easier to reduce the size of the operating device (1, 1A) in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the housing-side opening (20), the state of the load (L1) can be visually determined more easily.

[0241] Regarding the operating device (1, 1A) according to the fifth aspect, in any one of the second to fourth aspects, the operating unit (3) is arranged to cover the housing-side opening (20). The operating unit (3) has an operating-unit-side opening (30X) that can emit the light emitted from the housing-side opening (20).

[0242] According to the above aspect, light of a specific color and white light can be easily led out from the operating unit (3) to the outside.

[0243] Regarding the operating device (1, 1A) according to the sixth aspect, in the fifth aspect, the operation unit (3) has an optical member (4, 4A) that is disposed within the operation unit side opening (30X) and has translucency or light guiding properties.

[0244] According to the above aspect, light of a specific color and white light are more likely to be led out from the operation unit (3) to the outside.

[0245] Regarding the operating device (1, 1A) according to the seventh aspect, in the fifth or sixth aspect, the operation unit side opening (30X) is formed in a slit shape. The first light emitting unit (11) and the second light emitting unit (12) are arranged side by side in the longitudinal direction of the operation unit side opening (30X).

[0246] According to the above aspect, while facilitating miniaturization of the operating device (1, 1A) in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the operation unit side opening (30X), the state of the load (L1) becomes easier to visually determine.

[0247] The operating device (1, 1A) according to the eighth aspect includes a plurality of operation units (3) in any one of the first to seventh aspects. The operating device (1, 1A) includes a plurality of light emitting groups (G1) including the first light emitting unit (11) and the second light emitting unit (12). The housing (2) is formed in a long shape. The plurality of operation units (3) are arranged side by side in the longitudinal direction of the housing (2). The plurality of light emitting groups (G1) are arranged so as to respectively correspond to the plurality of operation units (3).

[0248] According to the above aspect, even when the operating device (1, 1A) includes a plurality of operation units (3), while facilitating miniaturization of the operating device (1, 1A) in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the housing (2), the state of the load (L1) becomes easier to visually determine.

[0249] Regarding the operating device (1, 1A) according to the ninth aspect, in any one of the first to eighth aspects, the load (L1) is an illumination load (A1) or a relay (Ry1) connected to the illumination load (A1). The first state is the on state or the off state of the load (L1). The second state is the state opposite to the first state of the load (L1).

[0250] According to the above aspect, it becomes easier to visually determine whether the load (L1) is in the on state or the off state.

[0251] Regarding the operating device (1, 1A) according to the tenth aspect, in any one of the first to ninth aspects, the specific color is a warm color or a cool color.

[0252] According to the above aspect, it becomes easier to realize a configuration in which the state of the load (L1) can be easily visually determined.

[0253] Regarding the operating device (1, 1A) according to the eleventh aspect, in the tenth aspect, the specific color is a warm color and is red.

[0254] According to the above aspect, it becomes easier to realize a configuration in which the state of the load (L1) can be easily visually determined.

[0255] Regarding the operating device (1, 1A) according to the twelfth aspect, in the tenth aspect, the specific color is a warm color and is green.

[0256] According to the above aspect, it becomes easier to realize a configuration in which the state of the load (L1) can be easily visually determined.

[0257] Regarding the operating device (1, 1A) according to the thirteenth aspect, in any one of the first to twelfth aspects, the first light emitting unit (11) does not emit light or emits light with a weaker light output than when the state of the load (L1) is the first state when the state of the load (L1) is the second state. The second light emitting unit (12) does not emit light or emits light with a weaker light output than when the state of the load (L1) is the second state when the state of the load (L1) is the first state.

[0258] According to the above aspect, compared with the case where the first light-emitting unit (11) emits strong light even when the state of the load (L1) is in the second state, or the second light-emitting unit (12) emits strong light even when the state of the load (L1) is in the first state, it becomes easier to visually determine the state of the load (L1).

[0259] The load system (100) according to the 14th aspect includes the operating device (1, 1A) in any one of the 1st to 13th aspects and the load (L1).

[0260] According to the above aspect, a load system (100) that makes it easier to visually determine the state of the load (L1) can be provided.

[0261] The communication system (110) according to the 15th aspect includes the operating device (1, 1A) in any one of the 1st to 13th aspects and the communication device (111) that controls communication between the operating device (1, 1A) and the load (L1).

[0262] According to the above aspect, a communication system (110) that makes it easier to visually determine the state of the load (L1) can be provided.

[0263] The load control system (120) according to the 16th aspect includes the communication system (110) in the 15th aspect and the load (L1).

[0264] According to the above aspect, a load control system (120) that makes it easier to visually determine the state of the load (L1) can be provided.

[0265] Regarding the configurations according to the 2nd to 13th aspects, they are not essential configurations for the operating device (1, 1A) according to the 1st aspect and can be appropriately omitted.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0266] 100 Load system 110 Communication system 111 Communication device 120 Load control system 1, 1A Operating device 11 First light-emitting unit 12 Second light-emitting unit 17 Communication unit 2 Housing 20 Housing-side opening 201 First opening 202 Second opening 3 Operation unit 30X Operation-unit side opening 4, 4A Optical member A1 Lighting load G1 Light-emitting group L1 Load Ry1 Relay

Claims

1. A housing, an operation unit provided on the housing and receiving an operation for switching the state of a load, a communication unit that transmits an operation signal based on the operation received by the operation unit and receives a state signal regarding the state of the load, a first light emitting unit that emits light of a specific color other than white when the state of the load is a first state in the state signal received by the communication unit, a second light emitting unit that emits white light when the state of the load is a second state different from the first state in the state signal received by the communication unit, and an operating device.

2. The first light emitting unit and the second light emitting unit are housed inside the housing, and the housing has a housing-side opening that can emit the specific color light emitted from the first light emitting unit and the white light emitted from the second light emitting unit. The operating device according to claim 1. The operating device according to claim 1.

3. The housing-side opening has a first opening that can emit the specific color light emitted from the first light emitting unit, and a second opening that can emit the white light emitted from the second light emitting unit. The operating device according to claim 2. The operating device according to claim 2.

4. The housing-side opening is formed in a slit shape, and the first light emitting unit and the second light emitting unit are arranged side by side in the longitudinal direction of the housing-side opening. The operating device according to claim 2. The operating device according to claim 2.

5. The operation unit is arranged so as to cover the housing-side opening, and the operation unit has an operation unit-side opening that can emit the light emitted from the housing-side opening. The operating device according to claim 2. The operating device according to claim 2.

6. The operation unit has an optical member that is arranged inside the operation unit-side opening and has translucency or light guiding properties. The operating device according to claim 5. The operating device according to claim 5.

7. The operation unit-side opening is formed in a slit shape, and the first light emitting unit and the second light emitting unit are arranged side by side in the longitudinal direction of the operation unit-side opening. The operating device according to claim 5. The operating device according to claim 5.

8. A plurality of the operation units are provided, a plurality of light emitting groups including the first light emitting unit and the second light emitting unit are provided, the housing is formed in a long shape, the plurality of operation units are arranged side by side in the longitudinal direction of the housing, and the plurality of light emitting groups are arranged so as to correspond to the plurality of operation units respectively. The operating device according to claim 1. The operating device according to claim 1.

9. The load is an illumination load or a relay connected to the illumination load, and the first state is an on state or an off state of the load. The second state is a state of the load that is opposite to the first state. The operating device according to claim 1.

10. The specific color is a warm color or a cool color. The operating device according to claim 1.

11. The specific color is the warm color and is red. The operating device according to claim 10.

12. The specific color is the warm color and is green. The operating device according to claim 10.

13. When the state of the load is the second state, the first light-emitting unit does not emit light or emits light with a light output weaker than when the state is the first state. When the state of the load is the first state, the second light-emitting unit does not emit light or emits light with a light output weaker than when the state is the second state. The operating device according to claim 1.

14. The operating device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, and the load, comprising a load system.

15. The operating device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, and a communication device that controls communication between the operating device and the load, comprising a communication system.

16. The communication system according to claim 15, and the load, comprising a load control system.

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