Control method, program, information terminal, switch device, and load system

Abstract

To improve usability of a switch device.SOLUTION: The information terminal 100 includes a communication unit 105 capable of communicating with the switch device, a display unit 102 that displays information, and a control unit 110. The switch device includes one or more physical operation units that are operated to change an operation state of one or more first loads, and is installed in a structure. The display part 102 can display one or more virtual operation parts operated for changing the operation state of one or more second loads through the switch device. The number of the one or more virtual operation sections is equal to or larger than the number of the one or more physical operation sections. When the user operates any one of the one or more virtual operation sections displayed on the display section 102, the control section 110 causes the communication section 105 to transmit a control signal for changing the operation state of the second load corresponding to the virtual operation section operated by the user to the switch device 1.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a control method, a program, an information terminal, a switch device, and a load system. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a control method, a program, an information terminal, a switch device, and a load system for an information terminal capable of communicating with a switch device. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a lighting control system including a lighting control device and an operation terminal. A plurality of operation buttons are arranged on the front surface of the operation terminal for respectively operating a plurality of operation switch devices. When an operation button on the operation terminal is operated, the lighting control device controls a load corresponding to the operated operation button. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 10-210566 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In conventional operation terminals, the load can only be operated using operation buttons provided on the operation terminal.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a control method, a program, an information terminal, a switch device, and a load system that can improve the usability of the switch device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A control method according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a control method for an information terminal having a communication unit capable of communicating with a switch device and a display unit that displays information. The switch device is provided with one or more physical operation units that are operated to change the operating states of one or more first loads and is installed on a structure. The control method includes a display step and a communication step. In the display step, one or more virtual operation units that are operated to change the operating states of one or more second loads via the switch device are displayed on the display unit. In the communication step, when a user operates any of the one or more virtual operation units displayed on the display unit, the communication unit transmits to the switch device a control signal that changes the operating state of the second load corresponding to the virtual operation unit operated by the user. The number of the one or more virtual operation units is equal to or greater than the number of the one or more physical operation units.

[0007] A program according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a program for causing a computer system to execute the control method.

[0008] An information terminal according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a communication unit capable of communicating with a switch device, a display unit that displays information, and a control unit. The switch device is installed on a structure and includes one or more physical operation units that are operated to change the operational state of one or more first loads. The display unit is capable of displaying one or more virtual operation units that are operated to change the operational state of one or more second loads via the switch device. The number of the one or more virtual operation units is equal to or greater than the number of the one or more physical operation units. When a user operates one of the one or more virtual operation units displayed on the display unit, the control unit causes the communication unit to transmit to the switch device a control signal that changes the operational state of the second load corresponding to the virtual operation unit operated by the user.

[0009] A switch device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a switch-side communication unit capable of communicating with the information terminal, and one or more physical operation units that are operated to change the operating state of the one or more first loads.

[0010] A load system according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes the switch device and one or more first loads. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a control method, a program, an information terminal, a switch device, and a load system that can improve the usability of a switch device. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic system configuration diagram of a control system including an information terminal and a switch device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram of the information terminal. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic block diagram of the switch device. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the switch device attached to a wall. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a front view of the switch device attached to the mounting frame. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of an initial screen displayed on the information terminal of the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a setting menu screen displayed on the information terminal. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a name setting screen displayed on the information terminal of the embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a two-dimensional code display screen displayed on the information terminal of the embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a selection screen displayed on the information terminal of the embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of an information display screen displayed on the information terminal of the above embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a name setting screen displayed on the information terminal of the same. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen for setting the control content of the individual control method displayed on the information terminal of the above embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen for setting the control content of the group control method displayed on the information terminal of the above embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a selection screen displayed on the information terminal of the embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen displayed on the information terminal of the embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen displayed on the information terminal of the embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen displayed on the information terminal of the embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of a lock setting screen displayed on the information terminal according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of a lock target selection screen displayed on the information terminal according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a diagram showing an example of an operation screen displayed on the information terminal of the above embodiment. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a diagram showing an example of an operation screen displayed on the information terminal of the above embodiment. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is a diagram showing an example of an operation screen displayed on the information terminal of the above embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The embodiments and modifications described below are merely examples of the present disclosure, and the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments and modifications. Various modifications other than the following embodiments and modifications are possible depending on the design, etc., as long as they do not deviate from the technical concept of the present disclosure. The following embodiments and modifications can be applied in appropriate combinations. Furthermore, Figures 4 to 23 described in the present disclosure are schematic diagrams, and the ratios of the sizes of the components in the drawings do not necessarily reflect the actual dimensional ratios.

[0014] (Embodiment) The switch device 1, the information terminal 100, the load system 120, and the control system 130 according to this embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS.

[0015] (1) Overview An overview of the information terminal 100 according to this embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG.

[0016] The information terminal 100 includes a communication unit 105 that can communicate with the switch device 1, a display unit 102 that displays information, and a control unit 110.

[0017] The switch device 1 is provided with one or more physical operating units 3 that are operated to change the operating state of one or more first loads, and is installed on a structure.

[0018] The display unit 102 can display one or more virtual operation units (operation units R41 to R48, sliders SD5, SD6, slide bar SB2, etc.) that are operated to change the operating states of one or more second loads via the switch device 1. The number of the one or more virtual operation units is equal to or greater than the number of the one or more physical operation units 3.

[0019] When a user operates one of the one or more virtual operation units displayed on the display unit 102, the control unit 110 causes the communication unit 105 to transmit to the switch device 1 a control signal that changes the operating state of the second load corresponding to the virtual operation unit operated by the user.

[0020] The information terminal 100 is capable of executing application software for performing at least one of setting the operation of a switch device 1 installed in a structure to change the operating state of the load L1 and operating the load L1 via the switch device 1. Note that changing the operating state of the load L1 may include switching the load L1 between an on state and an off state, and changing the state of the load L1 in the on state. For example, if the load L1 is a lighting load, changing the operating state of the load L1 may include switching the load L1 between an on state and an off state, and changing the state of the load L1 while it is lit (e.g., the brightness or color temperature of the output light).

[0021] Furthermore, the structure on which the switch device 1 is installed is, for example, the wall, floor, or ceiling of a building, but may also be furniture such as a desk or shelf placed in the building.

[0022] Here, when the display unit 102 displays one or more virtual operation panels, it is not limited to a display mode in which the display unit 102 displays all of the one or more virtual operation panels on one screen, but may also be a display mode in which the one or more virtual operation panels are distributed and displayed across multiple screens.

[0023] As described above, the display unit 102 of the information terminal 100 can display a number of virtual operation units equal to or greater than the number of physical operation units 3 included in the switch device 1. When a user operates one of the one or more virtual operation units displayed on the display unit 102, the control unit 110 causes the communication unit 105 to transmit to the switch device 1 a control signal that changes the operating state of the second load corresponding to the virtual operation unit operated by the user. Therefore, by using the information terminal 100, it is possible to increase the variety of operations of the loads (including the first load and the second load) compared to when the first load is operated using only the physical operation unit 3 of the switch device 1, and the usability of the switch device 1 can be improved.

[0024] The information terminal 100 also includes the display unit 102, an operation receiving unit 103 that receives user operations, and an output unit .

[0025] The display unit 102 can display a creation screen for creating a two-dimensional code CD1 (see FIG. 4) that stores at least one of first information related to communication between the switch device 1 and the information terminal 100 and second information related to control of the load L1 via the switch device 1. The switch device 1 is installed in a structure and is used to change the operating state of the load L1.

[0026] When the operation receiving unit 103 receives an operation from the user while the display unit 102 is displaying the creation screen, the output unit 108 outputs the two-dimensional code CD1 based on the operation received by the operation receiving unit 103.

[0027] Here, the two-dimensional code CD1 is a code that can store information in two directions, vertically and horizontally. The output unit 108 outputting the two-dimensional code CD1 may mean displaying the two-dimensional code CD1 on the display unit 102 of the information terminal 100. The output unit 108 outputting the two-dimensional code CD1 may mean outputting (storing) the data of the two-dimensional code CD1 in the memory unit 107 of the information terminal 100. The output unit 108 outputting the two-dimensional code CD1 may mean transmitting the data of the two-dimensional code CD1 to an external output device and outputting it from the external output device. Here, the output device is, for example, a display device that displays the two-dimensional code CD1 based on the data of the two-dimensional code CD1 input from the output unit 108 of the information terminal 100. The output device may also be a printing device that prints the two-dimensional code CD1 on a paper or synthetic resin seal substrate or the like based on the data of the two-dimensional code CD1 input from the output unit 108 of the information terminal 100. That is, the output mode of the two-dimensional code CD1 may be to display the two-dimensional code CD1 on the display unit 102 or an external display device, or to print the two-dimensional code CD1 on a printed material such as a sticker substrate. The sticker substrate on which the two-dimensional code CD1 is printed by the output device may be attached to a structure (for example, a wall, ceiling, floor, or furniture such as a desk) on which the switch device 1 is installed. Furthermore, the output unit 108 may output the data of the two-dimensional code CD1 to a computer device such as a personal computer, tablet computer, wearable computer, or smartphone that is capable of communicating with the information terminal 100.

[0028] The first information is information regarding communication with the switch device 1. The first information includes, for example, at least one of communication preparation information and communication execution information. The communication preparation information is information for putting the information terminal 100 into a communication preparation state in which it is possible to establish a communication connection with the switch device 1. The communication execution information is information for causing the information terminal 100 to establish a communication connection with the switch device 1. If the communication method between the information terminal 100 and the switch device 1 is, for example, a communication method compliant with Bluetooth (registered trademark), the communication execution information and the communication preparation information may include the device name of the switch device 1 and a passcode assigned to the switch device 1, which are necessary for the communication connection (pairing). Note that the communication method between the information terminal 100 and the switch device 1 is not limited to Bluetooth, and may be a communication method compliant with standards such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark), ZigBee (registered trademark), or unlicensed low-power radio (specified low-power radio).

[0029] The second information includes, for example, setting information regarding the control content of the load L1 assigned to a load operation unit that is operated to change the operating state of the load L1. The load operation unit includes, for example, a physical operation unit 3 that is provided in the switch device 1.

[0030] Here, when the information terminal 100 acquires the first information including the communication execution information by reading the two-dimensional code CD1, the information terminal 100 starts a communication connection with the switch device 1.

[0031] Furthermore, when the information terminal 100 acquires the first information including the communication preparation information by reading the two-dimensional code CD1, the information terminal 100 waits before starting a communication connection with the switch device 1. Thereafter, when the user performs an operation to instruct the information terminal 100 to start a communication connection with the switch device 1, the information terminal 100 may start the communication connection with the switch device 1.

[0032] When the display unit 102 displays the creation screen and the operation receiving unit 103 receives an operation from the user, the output unit 108 outputs the two-dimensional code CD1 based on the operation received by the operation receiving unit 103.

[0033] The information terminal 100 that outputs the two-dimensional code CD1 is, for example, an information terminal used by a contractor who installs the switch device 1. The two-dimensional code CD1 output by the information terminal 100 is attached, for example, to a wall or a piece of furniture such as a desk that is a structure on which the switch device 1 is installed, or to a piece of furniture such as a desk that is located near the switch device 1.

[0034] The two-dimensional code CD1 attached to a wall, a desk, or the like can be read by an information terminal 100 used by a construction company or an information terminal 100 used by a facility user (see FIG. 4). In the following description, when distinguishing between the two information terminals 100, the information terminal 100 used to output the two-dimensional code CD1 may be referred to as the first information terminal 100A, and the information terminal 100 used to read the two-dimensional code CD1 may be referred to as the second information terminal 100B. Note that the first information terminal 100A can be used both to output the two-dimensional code CD1 and to read the two-dimensional code CD1.

[0035] When a user reads the two-dimensional code CD1 output by the first information terminal 100A using the second information terminal 100B, the second information terminal 100B can acquire at least one of the first information and the second information stored in the two-dimensional code CD1. Therefore, by using at least one of the first information and the second information acquired by the second information terminal 100B from the two-dimensional code CD1, it becomes possible to operate the switch device 1 using the second information terminal 100B. This allows the user to operate the switch device 1 using the second information terminal 100B without having to travel to the installation location of the switch device 1, which has the advantage of improving the usability of the switch device 1.

[0036] The first information terminal 100A used to output the two-dimensional code CD1 and the second information terminal 100B used to read the two-dimensional code CD1 and operate the switch device 1 may be the same information terminal 100, or may be different information terminals 100. In other words, the first information terminal 100A used to output the two-dimensional code CD1 and the second information terminal 100B used to read the two-dimensional code CD1 and operate the switch device 1 may be different information terminals 100.

[0037] (2) Composition (2-1) Overall structure The switch device 1, the information terminal 100, the load system 120 including the switch device 1, and the control system 130 according to this embodiment will be described below.

[0038] The load system 120 includes a switch device 1 and one or more first loads (loads L1) (see FIG. 1). Of the one or more loads L1 included in the load system 120, the load L1 whose operating state is switched in response to the operation of the physical operation unit 3 provided in the switch device 1 is referred to as the first load.

[0039] The load system 120 is used in facilities such as office buildings, stores, hospitals, schools, factories, etc. The facility is also equipped with a control terminal 9 that controls the load L1 and a communication device 121 that controls communication between the switch device 1 and the control terminal 9.

[0040] The load system 120 according to this embodiment includes a switch device 1 and a load L1, as shown in Fig. 1. The load system 120 may include one or more loads L1.

[0041] The load L1 includes, for example, a relay Ry1 and a lighting load A1. The relay Ry1 has a contact connected between the AC power supply and the lighting load A1, and the contact is switched on or off in response to a switching signal from the control terminal 9. The control terminal 9 outputs a switching signal to the relay Ry1 to switch the contact on or off, thereby switching between a state in which power is supplied from the AC power supply to the lighting load A1 and a state in which the power supply is cut off. Note that, although the load L1 includes the relay Ry1 and the lighting load A1 in FIG. 1 , it is sufficient for the load L1 to include at least one of the relay Ry1 and the lighting load A1. The load L1 includes the lighting load A1, but may also include electrical equipment other than the lighting load A1, such as a ventilation fan. Note that the following embodiment will be described taking as an example a case in which the load L1 includes the lighting load A1.

[0042] 1 shows two switch devices 1, but the number of switch devices 1 may be one or three or more. Also, in FIG. 1, the number of control terminals 9 is two, but the number of control terminals 9 may be one or three or more. Also, in FIG. 1, one relay Ry1 is connected to one control terminal 9, and one control terminal 9 controls the on / off of one lighting load A1, but two or more relays Ry1 may be connected to one control terminal 9, and one control terminal 9 may control the on / off of two or more lighting loads A1.

[0043] In the following description, when the two switch devices 1 are to be distinguished from one another, they may be referred to as switch devices 1A and 1B, and when the two control terminals 9 are to be distinguished from one another, they may be referred to as control terminals 91 and 92. When the two loads L1 connected to the two control terminals 9 are to be distinguished from one another, they may be referred to as loads L11 and L12. When the two lighting loads A1 provided to the two loads L11 and L12 are to be distinguished from one another, they may be referred to as lighting loads A11 and A12.

[0044] 1, the control system 130 according to this embodiment includes a switch device 1, a control terminal 9 that controls a load L1, and a communication device 121 that controls communication between the switch device 1 and the control terminal 9. Note that the control system 130 may further include a load L1 as a component.

[0045] The switch device 1, the communication device 121, and the two control terminals 9 are each electrically connected to a two-wire transmission line 122.

[0046] The switch device 1 is equipped with one or more (for example, four) push button switches 6. A load address is assigned to each of the one or more push button switches 6. The load address is composed of, for example, a load channel and a load number. When any of the one or more push button switches 6 is pressed, the switch device 1 transmits to the communication device 121 the load address assigned to the pressed push button switch 6.

[0047] An individual address is assigned to the control terminal 9. An individual address is also assigned to the relay Ry1 connected to the control terminal 9, and the address of the control terminal 9 and the address of the relay Ry1 combined becomes the address of the load L1 to be controlled. When the control terminal 9 receives a control command addressed to itself from the communication device 121, it turns on or off the relay Ry1 to be controlled in accordance with the received control command, thereby turning on or off the lighting load A1. Note that the control terminal 9 may perform dimming control to control the brightness of the output light of the lighting load A1, or may perform color adjustment control to control the color temperature of the output light of the lighting load A1, in accordance with the received control command.

[0048] The communication device 121 has a memory that stores the correspondence between the load addresses assigned to one or more pushbutton switches 6 provided in the switch device 1 and the addresses (identification information) of the loads L1 to be controlled. The communication device 121 communicates with the switch device 1 and two control terminals 9 connected to a transmission line 122 using a multiplex transmission method. The communication device 121 performs constant polling, sequentially accessing the switch devices 1 and control terminals 9 connected to the transmission line 122, and acquires information from the switch devices 1 and control terminals 9.

[0049] When one or more pushbutton switches 6 included in the switch device 1 are pressed, the switch device 1 transmits an interrupt signal to the communication device 121. Upon receiving the interrupt signal, the communication device 121 accesses the switch device 1 that transmitted the interrupt signal and acquires from the switch device 1 the load address assigned to the pressed pushbutton switch 6. Upon acquiring the load address of the pressed pushbutton switch 6, the communication device 121 acquires the address of the load L1 to be controlled that is associated with this load address and transmits a control command to the control terminal 9 corresponding to the acquired address. For example, if the load address of the pressed pushbutton switch 6 is associated with a lighting load A11 connected to the control terminal 91, the communication device 121 transmits a control command to the control terminal 91. Furthermore, if the load address of the pressed pushbutton switch 6 is associated with a lighting load A12 connected to the control terminal 92, the communication device 121 transmits a control command to the control terminal 92. When the control terminal 9 receives a control command addressed to itself from the communication device 121, it controls the relay Ry1 to be controlled to be on or off in accordance with the control command, and turns on, off, or lights the lighting load A1 with a dimmed (adjusted) brightness.

[0050] The load addresses assigned to the push button switches 6 include individual control addresses, group control addresses, pattern control addresses, and the like.

[0051] When a push button switch 6 to which an individual control address is assigned is pressed, the communication device 121 sends a control command to the control terminal 9 associated with the individual control address, and turns on, turns off, dims, or adjusts the color of one lighting load A1 associated with the individual control address.

[0052] When a push button switch 6 to which a group control address is assigned is pressed, the communication device 121 transmits a control command to one or more control terminals 9 associated with the group control address. Based on the control command from the communication device 121, the one or more control terminals 9 associated with the group control address collectively turn on, turn off, dim, or adjust the color of the multiple lighting loads A1 associated with the group control address.

[0053] When a push button switch 6 to which a pattern control address is assigned is pressed, the communication device 121 transmits a control command to one or more control terminals 9 associated with the pattern control address. Based on the control command from the communication device 121, the one or more control terminals 9 associated with the pattern control address control each of the multiple lighting loads A1 to a state (on, off, dimmed lighting, or adjusted color lighting) specified by the control command.

[0054] The transmission signal transmitted from the communication device 121 to the transmission line 122 is a bipolar (±24V) time-division multiplexed signal. The switch device 1 and the control terminal 9 generate an operating voltage for the internal circuit by rectifying and stabilizing the transmission signal output from the communication device 121 to the transmission line 122.

[0055] (2-2) Switching device The configuration of the switch device 1 will be described in detail below with reference to Figures 3 to 5. In the following description, the directions of the switch device 1 will be defined based on the immaterial arrows in the up / down, left / right, and front / rear directions shown in Figures 4 and 5, but this is not intended to limit the direction in which the switch device 1 can be used. Figure 3 is a schematic block diagram of the switch device 1.

[0056] The switch device 1 includes a switch-side communication unit (second communication unit 16) capable of communicating with the information terminal 100, and one or more physical operation units 3 that are operated to change the operating state of one or more first loads (loads L1). The switch device 1 also includes a signal processing unit 15, one or more (for example, four in this embodiment) push button switches 6, a status display unit 10, the second communication unit 16, the first communication unit 17, a storage unit 18, and a power supply unit 19. The switch device 1 also includes a pair of first connection terminals 81 and a pair of second connection terminals 82.

[0057] A pair of transmission lines 122 is connected to each of 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 switch device 1, and the pair of second connection terminals 82 are used as terminals for feed wiring, for example.

[0058] The first communication unit 17 is connected to the pair of transmission lines 122 via a pair of first connection terminals 81, and is connected to the pair of transmission lines 122 via a pair of second connection terminals 82. This allows the first communication unit 17 to be branch-connected to the pair of transmission lines 122. The first communication unit 17 communicates with the communication device 121 via the pair of transmission lines 122 using a multiplex transmission method.

[0059] The power supply unit 19 generates power for operating the internal circuits of the switch device 1 by rectifying and stabilizing the transmission signal transmitted from the communication device 121 to the pair of transmission lines 122 .

[0060] The second communication unit 16 performs wireless communication with the information terminal 100. The second communication unit 16 includes a communication module that performs wireless communication using a communication method that complies with the Bluetooth standard, for example. Note that the second communication unit 16 may also perform wireless communication using a communication method that complies with standards such as Wi-Fi, ZigBee, or low-power radio that does not require a license (specified low-power radio).

[0061] The status display unit 10 displays whether the lighting load A1 associated with the push button switch 6 is on or off. In other words, the switch device 1 includes status display units 10 that are provided corresponding to one or more physical operation units 3 and that display the operating states of one or more loads L1 based on the user's operation of one or more physical operation units 3. The status display units 10 include a first light-emitting unit 11 and a second light-emitting unit 12. The switch device 1 of this embodiment includes four push button switches 6, and one first light-emitting unit 11 and one second light-emitting unit 12 are provided corresponding to each of the four push button switches. In other words, the status display unit 10 includes four pairs of first light-emitting units 11 and second light-emitting units 12.

[0062] The first light-emitting unit 11 emits light when the lighting load A1 is turned on, and does not emit light when the lighting load A1 is turned off. The first light-emitting unit 11 is, for example, an LED (Light Emitting Diode) element that emits red light. The second light-emitting unit 12 emits light when the lighting load A1 is turned off, and does not emit light when the lighting load A1 is turned on. The second light-emitting unit 12 is, for example, an LED element that emits white light. Note that the light colors of the first light-emitting unit 11 and the second light-emitting unit 12 are not limited to the above colors. As long as the light color of the first light-emitting unit 11 and the light color of the second light-emitting unit 12 are different, the light colors of the first light-emitting unit 11 and the second light-emitting unit 12 can be changed as appropriate.

[0063] The signal processing unit 15 performs overall control of the switch device 1. The signal processing unit 15 is mainly composed of 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, or may be provided via a telecommunications line such as the Internet, or may be recorded on a non-transitory recording medium such as a memory card and provided.

[0064] The signal processing unit 15 has, for example, the functions of a control unit 151. Note that the control unit 151 merely indicates the functions realized by the signal processing unit 15, and does not necessarily indicate a substantial configuration.

[0065] The control unit 151 switches whether to execute setting information that sets whether the operation of the load operation unit is enabled or disabled, in accordance with a switching signal received by the first communication unit 105 from the lock operation terminal. Note that the operation of the control unit 151 will be described in <Lock setting> of "(3-2) Setting of the switch device using an information terminal."

[0066] 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). The storage unit 18 stores, for example, a program executed by the signal processing unit 15. The storage unit 18 stores, for example, a load address assigned to each of the plurality of push button switches 6.

[0067] The switch device 1 also includes a housing 2, one or more (four in FIGS. 4 and 5) physical operation units 3, and a mounting frame 5. A circuit board on which the circuit shown in the block diagram of FIG. 3 is mounted is housed inside the housing 2. The one or more physical operation units 3 are provided in one-to-one correspondence with one or more push button switches 6 housed in the housing 2. The one or more physical operation units 3 are attached to the housing 2 in a state in which they can respectively operate the one or more push button switches 6.

[0068] The physical operation unit 3 is a physical operation handle provided on the switch device 1. The physical operation unit 3 includes a handle body 31 with a rectangular window hole 30 elongated in the left-right direction. The four physical operation units 3 are attached to the housing 2 in a vertically aligned state with their short sides parallel to the vertical direction. The physical operation units 3 are attached to the housing 2 so as to be rotatable about a shaft provided at the left end of the front surface of the housing 2. Four operation arms are provided on the front surface of the housing 2, each of which corresponds to one of the four physical operation units 3 and are cantilevered by the housing 2 by forming a through groove around its periphery. Four push button switches 6 are arranged inside the housing 2 at positions facing the four operation arms. When the right end of a physical operation unit 3 attached to the housing 2 is pressed, the physical operation unit 3 rotates about the shaft, and the operation arm is pushed backward by the back surface of the physical operation unit 3. When the operating arm moves rearward, the push button of the push button switch 6 is pressed by the operating arm, so that the contact of the push button switch 6 is turned on or off.

[0069] A light-transmitting cover 4, which is a molded part made of a transparent synthetic resin (for example, acrylic resin), is attached to the window hole 30 of the physical operation unit 3. A front surface 40 of the light-transmitting cover 4 is formed in a rectangular shape that is elongated in the left-right direction, and is inserted into the window hole 30 of the physical operation unit 3. A nameplate, for example, is disposed on the back side of the light-transmitting cover 4, and the nameplate can be seen through the light-transmitting cover 4 from the front side of the switch device 1. A protrusion 41 is provided on the right end of the front surface 40 of the light-transmitting cover 4 to indicate the operating position.

[0070] Furthermore, inside the housing 2, pairs of first light-emitting unit 11 and second light-emitting unit 12 are arranged at positions corresponding to the protrusions 41 of the four light-transmitting covers 4 attached to the four physical operation units 3. The housing 2 is provided with openings for irradiating light emitted by the first light-emitting unit 11 and the second light-emitting unit 12 forward, and the light emitted by the first light-emitting unit 11 and the second light-emitting unit 12 passes through the holes in the housing 2 and the light-transmitting cover 4 and is irradiated forward.

[0071] The housing 2 of the switch device 1 is attached to a structural body such as a wall of a building using a mounting frame 5. The mounting frame 5 is, for example, a mounting frame capable of mounting up to three unit-sized recessed wiring devices. The mounting frame 5 can be screwed to a mounting member such as a switch box. For example, a construction hole is formed in the structural body such as a wall on which the switch device 1 is installed, and a mounting member such as a recessed switch box is disposed on the rear side of the wall (behind the wall). The switch device 1 is attached to the structural body via the mounting frame 5 by screwing the mounting frame 5 to which the housing 2 of the switch device 1 is fixed to the mounting member.

[0072] A decorative panel 20 (see FIG. 4) is attached to the front side of the mounting frame 5. A rectangular hole 21 is provided in the center of the decorative panel 20, and the front surface of the switch device 1 is exposed through the hole 21 of the decorative panel 20.

[0073] (2-3) First information terminal The first information terminal 100A is an information terminal 100 used to output the two-dimensional code CD1. The first information terminal 100A is, for example, an information terminal 100 used by a contractor who installs the switch device 1. The first information terminal 100A is, for example, a smartphone, but may also be a computer device such as a tablet computer. The first information terminal 100A may also be used to read the two-dimensional code CD1 and operate the switch device 1.

[0074] As shown in FIG. 2, the first information terminal 100A includes a signal processing unit 101, a display unit 102, an operation receiving unit 103, a camera 104, a first communication unit 105, a second communication unit 106, and a memory unit 107.

[0075] The display unit 102 is, for example, a thin display device such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display.

[0076] The operation acceptance unit 103 accepts an operation input from the user of the first information terminal 100A. The operation acceptance unit 103 includes, for example, a capacitive or resistive touch sensor attached to the display surface of the display device, which is the display unit 102. The operation acceptance unit 103 can detect an operation in which the user touches the surface of the display unit 102 (for example, a touch operation such as tapping, flicking, or swiping). When the operation acceptance unit 103 detects a touch operation performed by the user, the operation acceptance unit 103 outputs information regarding the operation content of the touch operation to the signal processing unit 101.

[0077] The camera 104 includes, for example, a rear camera provided on the back surface of the main body of the first information terminal 100 A. When activated by the signal processing unit 101, the camera 104 captures an image of a subject and outputs image data to the signal processing unit 101.

[0078] The first communication unit 105 performs wireless communication with the switch device 1. The first communication unit 105 is a communication module that performs wireless communication using a communication method that complies with the Bluetooth standard, for example. Note that the communication method of the first communication unit 105 is not limited to Bluetooth, and may be a communication method that complies with standards such as Wi-Fi, ZigBee, or low-power radio that does not require a license (specified low-power radio).

[0079] The second communication unit 106 includes a communication module that performs wireless communication with, for example, a base station of a mobile communication network, and is connected to the Internet via the base station of the mobile communication network.

[0080] The storage unit 107 includes memories such as RAM, ROM, and EEPROM. The storage unit 107 stores, for example, programs executed by the signal processing unit 101. The programs stored in the storage unit 107 include application software for setting and operating the switch device 1. The storage unit 18 also stores setting information and the like assigned to each of the multiple pushbutton switches 6.

[0081] The signal processing unit 101 performs overall control of the first information terminal 100A. The signal processing unit 101 is mainly configured as a computer system having one or more processors and a memory. The functions of the signal processing unit 101 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, or may be provided via a telecommunications line such as the Internet, or may be recorded on a non-transitory recording medium such as a memory card and provided.

[0082] The signal processing unit 101 has, for example, the functions of an output unit 108, a setting unit 109, and a control unit 110. Note that the output unit 108, the setting unit 109, and the control unit 110 merely indicate functions realized by the signal processing unit 101, and do not necessarily indicate actual configurations.

[0083] The output unit 108 creates the two-dimensional code CD1 based on a user operation received by the operation receiving unit 103 while a creation screen for creating the two-dimensional code CD1 is displayed on the display unit 102, and outputs the created two-dimensional code CD1. For example, the output unit 108 outputs data of the created two-dimensional code CD1 to the storage unit 107 and stores it in the storage unit 107. The output unit 108 also outputs data of the created two-dimensional code CD1 to the display unit 102 and displays the two-dimensional code CD1 on the display unit 102. The output unit 108 may also output data of the created two-dimensional code CD1 from the first communication unit 105 to a printing device having a Bluetooth communication function, and cause the printing device to print the two-dimensional code CD1 on a sticker substrate or the like. The output unit 108 may also output data of the two-dimensional code CD1 to a computer device, such as a personal computer, tablet computer, wearable computer, or smartphone, that is capable of communicating with the information terminal 100.

[0084] Here, the output unit 108 can output, for example, a two-dimensional code CD1 for application acquisition that stores access information (e.g., a URL) for accessing a web page from which the information terminal 100 can download the application software. That is, the output unit 108 further executes an output step of outputting the two-dimensional code CD1 for application acquisition that stores access information for accessing a web page from which the information terminal 100 can download the application software. The application software is software that the information terminal 100 executes to control the switch device 1. Note that the information terminal 100 controlling the switch device 1 includes at least one of configuring the switch device 1 and operating the load L1 via the switch device 1.

[0085] The output unit 108 can also output a two-dimensional code CD1 for pairing that stores first information for causing the information terminal 100 to start a communication connection with the switch device 1. For example, the output unit 108 performs an output step of outputting the two-dimensional code CD1 that stores the first information including communication preparation information. The output unit 108 may also perform an output step of outputting the two-dimensional code CD1 that stores the first information including communication execution information.

[0086] The output unit 108 can also output a two-dimensional code CD1 for operation that stores second information used by the information terminal 100 to control the load L1 via the switch device 1. Here, the two-dimensional code CD1 for operation can be output for each load operation unit. In this embodiment, there are multiple load operation units, so the output unit 108 performs an output step of outputting a two-dimensional code CD1 (two-dimensional code CD1 for operation) that stores second information including setting information related to a load operation unit that is the output target among the multiple load operation units. Note that the setting information related to the load operation unit that is the output target refers to setting information related to the control content that is performed when the load operation unit is operated. Here, the two-dimensional code CD1 for operation stores setting information related to the control content of the load L1 assigned to the load operation unit.

[0087] The control content of the load L1 (including at least one of the first load and the second load) included in the second information includes information regarding the type of control method for the load L1. The type of control method for the load L1 includes at least one of an individual control method, a group control method, and a pattern control method. The individual control method is a control method that individually controls the operating state of the load L1. The group control method is a control method that collectively controls the operating states of two or more loads L1 to a predetermined operating state. The pattern control method is a control method that controls two or more loads L1 to an operating state set for each load L1.

[0088] In addition, in this embodiment, the load L1 is a lighting load A1, and the control of the operating state of the lighting load A1 includes at least one of a lighting state in which the lighting load A1 is turned on, a lighting state in which the lighting load A1 is turned off, a dimmed lighting state in which the lighting load A1 is turned on at a predetermined dimming level, and a color-adjusted lighting state in which the lighting load A1 is turned on at a predetermined color temperature.

[0089] The setting information also includes identification information (address) that specifies a control target including at least one of the load L1 and the switch device 1 that are controlled when the load operation unit is operated.

[0090] The setting unit 109 sets at least one of the control contents of the switch device 1 and the load L1 controlled via the switch device 1 based on the operation information of the user received by the operation receiving unit 103.

[0091] The display unit 102 can display one or more virtual operation units (e.g., operation units R41 to R48 in FIG. 21 , sliders SD5 and slide bar SB2 in FIGS. 22 and 23 ) that are operated to change the operating states of one or more second loads via the switch device 1. That is, the load operation unit includes a physical operation unit 3 provided in the switch device 1 and a virtual operation unit displayed on the display unit 102 of the information terminal 100. The one or more virtual operation units may include at least one of a first virtual operation unit and a second virtual operation unit. The first virtual operation unit, like the physical operation unit 3, is an operation unit operated to switch on or off a second load associated with the first virtual operation unit. The second virtual operation unit is an operation unit operated to set control details and the like for the second load after selecting the second load to be operated. In this embodiment, the operation units R41 to R48 and the like serve as first virtual operation units, and the sliders SD5 and slide bar SB2 and the like serve as second virtual operation units.

[0092] While the number of physical operation units 3 is limited by the number that can be arranged on the switch device 1, there are no physical restrictions on the number of virtual operation units, and therefore the number of virtual operation units can be increased beyond the number of physical operation units 3. That is, the display unit 102 can display one or more virtual operation units on the display unit 102, the number of which is equal to or greater than the number of the one or more physical operation units 3. When a user operates one of the one or more virtual operation units displayed on the display unit 102, the control unit 110 causes the first communication unit (communication unit) 105 to transmit to the switch device 1 a control signal that changes the operating state of a second load corresponding to the virtual operation unit operated by the user. Note that, among the one or more loads L1 included in the load system 120, a load L1 whose operating state is switched in response to the operation of the virtual operation unit displayed on the display unit 102 is referred to as a second load. That is, the control method for the information terminal 100 includes a transmitting step of transmitting, to the switch device 1, a control signal that changes the operating state of the load L1 in response to the operation of the virtual operation unit displayed on the display unit 102, when the virtual operation unit displayed on the display unit 102 is operated. FIG. 22 shows an example of an operation screen G17 in which a virtual operation unit is displayed on the display unit 102 of the first information terminal 100A. The operation screen G17 displays a slider SD5 for switching on / off the load L1, which is the second load, as the virtual operation unit. By operating the virtual operation unit (slider SD5) displayed on the operation screen G17, a control signal for switching on / off the load L1 is transmitted from the first information terminal 100A to the switch device 1. The switch device 1 then performs an operation for switching on / off the load L1 based on the control signal received from the first information terminal 100A. Note that although only one virtual operation unit is displayed on the operation screen G17 in FIG. 22, multiple virtual operation units for operating multiple second loads may be displayed. Note also that the operation screen G17 and other screens used in the following description are merely examples, and the number and types of virtual operation units displayed on the screen, the screen layout, and the like can be changed as appropriate.

[0093] In this embodiment, the switch device 1 includes a physical operation unit 3, and the operation state of the first load assigned to the physical operation unit 3 can be changed by operating the physical operation unit 3 of the switch device 1. In addition, in this embodiment, the information terminal 100 can be used to control the operation state of the second load via the switch device 1. When the information terminal 100 is used to operate the second load, a virtual operation unit (e.g., an icon) is displayed on the display unit 102 of the information terminal 100. When the user operates the virtual operation unit displayed on the display unit 102 of the information terminal 100, a control signal for changing the operation state of the second load assigned to the virtual operation unit is transmitted from the information terminal 100 to the switch device 1, and the operation state of the second load can be changed via the switch device 1. In this way, the virtual operation unit is an operation unit operated to change the operation state of the second load, and is a virtual operation unit (e.g., an icon) displayed on the display unit 102 of the first information terminal 100A.

[0094] (2-4) Second information terminal The second information terminal 100B is an information terminal 100 used to read the two-dimensional code CD1 and control the switch device 1. The second information terminal 100B is, for example, an information terminal 100 used by a user who uses a facility. The second information terminal 100B is, for example, a smartphone, but may also be a computer device such as a tablet computer.

[0095] The second information terminal 100B differs from the first information terminal 100A in that it does not include the output unit 108 and the setting unit 109. In other words, the second information terminal 100B has the same configuration as the first information terminal 100A except for the output unit 108 and the setting unit 109, and therefore the common components are given the same reference numerals and their description will be omitted.

[0096] In addition, when the second information terminal 100B can also be used to create the two-dimensional code CD1, the second information terminal 100B may be provided with an output unit 108 and a setting unit 109. In other words, the second information terminal 100B and the first information terminal 100A may be the same information terminal 100.

[0097] (3) Operation explanation The operation of the information terminal 100 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0098] Below, the operation of the information terminal 100 when a contractor or a facility user installs application software for configuring or operating the switch device 1 into the information terminal 100 will be described in "(3-1) Installing Application Software." Furthermore, the operation of the first information terminal 100A when a contractor configures the switch device 1 using the first information terminal 100A will be described in "(3-2) Configuring Switch Device Using Information Terminal." Furthermore, the operation of the first information terminal 100A when a facility user operates the load L1 via the switch device 1 using the second information terminal 100B will be described in "(3-3) Operating a Load Using an Information Terminal."

[0099] (3-1) Installing application software A user (a construction contractor or a facility user) operates the information terminal 100 (first information terminal 100A or second information terminal 100B) to activate the camera 104, and then causes the camera 104 to capture a two-dimensional code CD1 for acquiring an application. When image data of the two-dimensional code CD1 captured by the camera 104 is output from the camera 104 to the signal processing unit 101, the signal processing unit 101 acquires access information stored in the two-dimensional code CD1 from the image data of the two-dimensional code CD1. The access information is information for accessing a web server that stores application software executed by the information terminal 100 to control the switch device 1. The access information is, for example, a uniform resource locator (URL) of a web page from which the application software can be downloaded.

[0100] When the signal processing unit 101 controls the second communication unit 106 to access the web page of the URL acquired from the two-dimensional code CD1, an operation button for starting the download of the application software is displayed on the display unit 102 of the information terminal 100. When the user of the information terminal 100 performs an operation such as tapping the operation button, the application software is downloaded from the web server to the information terminal 100. Note that when the signal processing unit 101 accesses the web page of the URL acquired from the two-dimensional code CD1, the download of the application software may be started automatically.

[0101] When the download of the application software from the web server to the information terminal 100 is completed, the signal processing unit 101 installs the downloaded application software. When the installation of the application software is completed, the information terminal 100 becomes ready to use the application software.

[0102] (3-2) Setting up a switch device using an information terminal The operation of the first information terminal 100A when an installer uses the first information terminal 100A to configure the switch device 1 will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0103] <Communication connection> In order to establish a communication connection between the first information terminal 100A and the switch device 1 to be configured, the contractor operates the first information terminal 100A to activate the camera 104, and then causes the camera 104 to capture a two-dimensional code CD1 for pairing. When image data of the two-dimensional code CD1 captured by the camera 104 is output from the camera 104 to the signal processing unit 101, the signal processing unit 101 acquires first information related to the communication connection with the switch device 1 from the image data of the two-dimensional code CD1. For example, when the information terminal 100 and the switch device 1 communicate using a communication method compliant with the Bluetooth standard, the first information includes the device name of the switch device 1 and a passcode assigned to the switch device 1, which are necessary for the information terminal 100 to establish a communication connection (pairing) with the switch device 1. Note that the first information is not limited to these pieces of information and can be changed as appropriate.

[0104] When the signal processing unit 101 acquires the first information, if application software for setting and operating the switch device 1 is installed in the first information terminal 100A, the signal processing unit 101 starts the application software. When the application software starts, the signal processing unit 101 starts a communication connection (pairing) between the first communication unit 105 and the second communication unit 16 of the switch device 1 based on the first information acquired from the two-dimensional code CD1. The first communication unit 105 transmits a device name and a passcode to the second communication unit 16, and the first communication unit 105 and the second communication unit 16 are brought into a communication-connected state (pairing is completed state).

[0105] When the signal processing unit 101 acquires the first information obtained from the two-dimensional code CD1, the signal processing unit 101 may cause the display unit 102 to display a connection start screen that prompts the user to input whether or not to start a communication connection with the switch device 1. When the user performs an operation to select the start of a communication connection with the switch device while the connection start screen is displayed on the display unit 102, the signal processing unit 101 may cause the first communication unit 105 to start a communication connection (pairing) with the second communication unit 16 of the switch device 1.

[0106] Furthermore, when the signal processing unit 101 acquires the first information, if the application software for setting up and operating the switch device 1 is not installed in the first information terminal 100A, the signal processing unit 101 may cause the display unit 102 to display a screen prompting the installer to install the application software.

[0107] <Initial screen display> When the communication connection between the first communication unit 105 and the second communication unit 16 is completed, the signal processing unit 101 causes the display unit 102 to display an initial screen G1 (see Figure 6) that allows the user to select an operation for the switch device 1 with which the communication connection has been completed (hereinafter referred to as the paired switch device 1).

[0108] In the center of the initial screen G1, a front view of the paired switch device 1 is displayed as a diagram P1, and the name of the paired switch device 1 (for example, "Conference Room" in the example of FIG. 6) is displayed above the diagram P1. When application software is installed in the information terminal 100, data on the diagrams P1 of multiple types of switch devices 1 is registered in the storage unit 107 of the information terminal 100. The two-dimensional code CD1 also stores switch information related to the switch device 1, such as individual identification information assigned to the switch device 1 (for example, a MAC address, a serial number, or a load address), type information indicating the type of the switch device 1, and name information indicating the name of the switch device 1. The signal processing unit 101 reads out data on the diagram P1 of the switch device 1 corresponding to the type information acquired from the two-dimensional code CD1 from the storage unit 107 and displays the data on the display unit 102. The signal processing unit 101 also displays name information N1 of the paired switch device 1 above the diagram P1 based on the name information acquired from the two-dimensional code CD1. Therefore, the user of the first information terminal 100A can confirm the paired switch device 1 based on the appearance diagram P1 and name information N1 displayed on the display unit 102.

[0109] Two selection buttons B1 and B2 are displayed below the initial screen G1 for selecting a process for the paired switch device 1. The selection button B1 is a button that is operated when operating the load L1 via the switch device 1. The selection button B2 is a button that is operated when setting the control content of the switch device 1 or the load L1 via the switch device 1.

[0110] <Display setting menu> When the user taps the selection button B2 while the initial screen G1 is displayed on the display unit 102, the signal processing unit 101 causes a password entry screen prompting the user to enter a password to be displayed on the display unit 102. In the initial state in which application software for setting or operating the switch device 1 is installed in the first information terminal 100A, an initial password is registered in the storage unit 107.

[0111] When the user performs an operation to input a password while the password input screen is displayed on the display unit 102, the signal processing unit 101 performs password authentication by comparing the password received by the operation reception unit 103 with the initial password registered in the storage unit 107. If the two passwords match, the signal processing unit 101 displays a setting menu screen G2 as shown in FIG. 7 on the display unit 102. If the password received by the operation reception unit 103 does not match the initial password (i.e., if password authentication has failed), the signal processing unit 101 displays a password input screen on the display unit 102 that instructs the user to re-enter the password. If password authentication has failed a predetermined number of times in succession, the signal processing unit 101 displays a message on the display unit 102 notifying the user that the password entry has failed, and ends the processing.

[0112] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the setting menu screen G2. A character string TL1 (e.g., "Settings") indicating the title of the screen is displayed at the top of the setting menu screen G2. Below the character string TL1, multiple operation areas R1 to R5 are provided, each corresponding to a setting item. Character strings representing the respective operation items are displayed in the operation areas R1 to R5. For example, the operation area R1 is an area operated when changing the name of the paired switch device 1, and the characters "Change Registered Name" are displayed in the operation area R1. The operation area R2 is an area operated when creating a two-dimensional code CD1, and the characters "Create Two-dimensional Code" are displayed in the operation area R2. The operation area R3 is an area operated when changing the password, and the characters "Change Password" are displayed in the operation area R3. The operation area R4 is an area operated when setting the load L1 controlled by operating the load operation unit and the control content thereof, and the characters "Switch Function Settings" are displayed in the operation area R4. Operation area R5 is an area that is operated when setting a load operation unit that is prohibited from operation, and the words "lock setting" are displayed in operation area R5. Note that the setting items that can be set on setting menu screen G2 are just an example, and the contents of the setting items can be changed as appropriate.

[0113] Furthermore, an end button B5 is displayed to the right of the character string TL1 at the top of the setting menu screen G2. When the user taps the end button B5 while the setting menu screen G2 is displayed on the display unit 102, the signal processing unit 101 causes the display unit 102 to display the initial screen G1.

[0114] <Switch device name setting> When the setting menu screen G2 is displayed on the display unit 102 and the user taps the operation area R1, the signal processing unit 101 causes the display unit 102 to display a name setting screen G3 as shown in FIG. 8 based on the operation information received by the operation receiving unit 103.

[0115] A character string TL2 (for example, "Change registered name") indicating the title of the screen is displayed at the top of the name setting screen G3. An input field C1 for inputting the name of the switch device 1 is displayed below the character string TL2. An operation button B3, which is operated when registering the name input in the input field C1 as the name of the switch device 1, is displayed at the bottom of the name setting screen G3. A character string indicating the operation content (for example, "Send") is displayed on the operation button B3.

[0116] When the user operates the first information terminal 100A to input a desired name in the input field C1 and then taps the operation button B3, the signal processing unit 101 stores the name received by the operation receiving unit 103 as the name of the paired switch device 1 in the storage unit 107 in association with the identification information of the paired switch device 1. The signal processing unit 101 also causes the first communication unit 105 to transmit information about the name received by the operation receiving unit 103 to the paired switch device 1. When the second communication unit 16 of the paired switch device 1 receives the name information from the first information terminal 100A, the signal processing unit 15 stores the name received from the first information terminal 100A in the storage unit 18 as the name of the switch device 1. In this way, the signal processing unit 101 of the first information terminal 100A can execute a name setting step of displaying a name setting screen G3 on the display unit 102 to set the name of the switch device 1. Therefore, the user of the first information terminal 100A can set the name of the switch device 1 to a desired name.

[0117] A return button B4 is displayed on the upper left side of the name setting screen G3, and when the user taps the return button B4, the signal processing unit 101 displays the screen that was displayed before the name setting screen G3 on the display unit 102. In addition, the above-mentioned end button B5 is displayed on the upper right side of the name setting screen G3.

[0118] <Creating a 2D code> When the user taps on the operation area R2 while the setting menu screen G2 is displayed on the display unit 102, the signal processing unit 101 starts processing to create a two-dimensional code CD1 based on operation information received by the operation receiving unit 103. After tapping on the operation area R2, the user may select the type of two-dimensional code CD1 to be created, and the signal processing unit 101 starts processing to create the two-dimensional code CD1 of the type selected by the user. Alternatively, the signal processing unit 101 may start processing to create the selected two-dimensional code CD1 after the user has previously selected the type of two-dimensional code CD1 to be created.

[0119] The signal processing unit 101 displays on the display unit 102 a selection screen for selecting the type of two-dimensional code CD1 to be created.

[0120] Here, the process for creating the two-dimensional code CD1 can create the above-mentioned two-dimensional code CD1 for application acquisition, two-dimensional code CD1 for pairing, and two-dimensional code CD1 for operation. Note that the two-dimensional code CD1 created in the process for creating the two-dimensional code CD1 is not limited to the two-dimensional code CD1 for application acquisition, two-dimensional code CD1 for pairing, and two-dimensional code CD1 for operation, and other two-dimensional codes CD1 may also be created.

[0121] When a user operates the first information terminal 100A and selects the creation of a two-dimensional code CD1 for application acquisition, the output unit 108 of the signal processing unit 101 creates a two-dimensional code CD1 for application acquisition that stores access information and switch information. The access information is, for example, a URL of a web page from which the information terminal 100 can download application software. The access information is registered in the storage unit 107 of the first information terminal 100A when the application software is installed in the first information terminal 100A. The switch information may include individual identification information assigned to the switch device 1 (e.g., a MAC address, a serial number, or a load address), type information indicating the type of the switch device 1, name information indicating the name of the switch device 1, etc. The switch information is not limited to these pieces of information and can be changed as appropriate.

[0122] The output unit 108, for example, displays the created two-dimensional code CD1 on the display unit 102. Fig. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a two-dimensional code display screen G4 on which the two-dimensional code CD1 created by the output unit 108 is displayed.

[0123] A character string TL3 indicating the title of the screen (e.g., "Create 2D Code") is displayed at the top of the 2D code display screen G4. A return button B4 is displayed to the left of the character string TL3, and an exit button B5 is displayed to the right of the character string TL3.

[0124] Below the character string TL3, a two-dimensional code CD1 created by the output unit 108 is displayed.

[0125] In addition, two operation buttons B6 and B7 are displayed below the two-dimensional code CD1. Operation button B6 is a button that is operated to store the data of the created two-dimensional code CD1 in storage unit 107. Operation button B7 is a button that is operated to send the data of the created two-dimensional code CD1 to a printing device and have the printing device print the two-dimensional code CD1 on a sticker substrate or the like.

[0126] When the user taps the operation button B6, for example, the output unit 108 stores the data of the created two-dimensional code CD1 in the storage unit 107 based on the operation information received by the operation receiving unit 103.

[0127] Furthermore, when the user taps the operation button B7, for example, the output unit 108 transmits data of the created two-dimensional code CD1 to the printing device from the first communication unit 105 or the second communication unit 106 based on the operation information received by the operation receiving unit 103. Upon receiving the data of the two-dimensional code CD1 from the first information terminal 100A, the printing device prints the two-dimensional code CD1 on a sticker substrate or the like. In this manner, a sticker substrate on which the two-dimensional code CD1 is printed can be created, and the user can attach the sticker substrate on which the two-dimensional code CD1 for app acquisition is printed to a fixture such as a wall or desk near the paired switch device 1, or to a predetermined attachment location. The sticker substrate on which the two-dimensional code CD1 for app acquisition is printed may be attached to the surface of the switch device 1, the mounting frame 5 to which the switch device 1 is attached, the surface or back surface of the decorative panel 20, or the like.

[0128] Thereafter, when the camera 104 of the information terminal 100 on which the application software is not installed photographs the two-dimensional code CD1 for acquiring the application, the signal processing unit 101 of the information terminal 100 can acquire access information from the two-dimensional code CD1 photographed by the camera 104. As a result, the signal processing unit 101 of the information terminal 100 on which the application software is not installed can use the access information acquired from the two-dimensional code CD1 to access a web page from which the application software can be downloaded, and download and install the application software.

[0129] Furthermore, when the user operates the first information terminal 100A to select the two-dimensional code CD1 for pairing on a selection screen for selecting the type of two-dimensional code CD1 to be created, the output unit 108 of the signal processing unit 101 creates a two-dimensional code CD1 that stores first information including, for example, communication preparation information. The communication preparation information includes information necessary for establishing a communication connection with the switch device 1 (for example, the device name of the switch device 1 and a passcode assigned to the switch device 1, etc.). The device name of the switch device 1 and the passcode assigned to the switch device 1 are acquired from the paired switch device 1 when the first information terminal 100A is paired with the switch device 1. The communication preparation information is information that puts the information terminal 100 into a communication preparation state in which it can establish a communication connection with the switch device 1. The communication preparation state is, for example, a state in which the information terminal 100 asks the user whether or not to start a communication connection with the switch device 1, and waits for a start command to be input by the user. When the user performs an operation to instruct the start of a communication connection in the communication preparation state, the signal processing unit 101 starts the communication connection between the first communication unit 105 and the switch device 1.

[0130] The output unit 108 displays, for example, the created two-dimensional code CD1 on the display unit 102. The two-dimensional code display screen that displays the two-dimensional code CD1 for pairing is similar to the two-dimensional code display screen G4 that displays the two-dimensional code CD1 for app acquisition, and therefore a description of the two-dimensional code display screen that displays the two-dimensional code CD1 for pairing will be omitted.

[0131] The output unit 108 may store the data of the created two-dimensional code CD1 in the storage unit 107. Alternatively, the output unit 108 may output the data of the created two-dimensional code CD1 to a printing device and cause the printing device to print it on a sticker substrate or the like. The user can attach the sticker substrate on which the two-dimensional code CD1 is printed to a fixture such as a wall or desk near the paired switch device 1, or to a predetermined attachment location. Alternatively, the output unit 108 may output the data of the two-dimensional code CD1 to a computer device such as a personal computer, tablet computer, wearable computer, or smartphone that is capable of communicating with the information terminal 100.

[0132] For example, when a user activates the camera 104 of the information terminal 100 and photographs a two-dimensional code CD1 for pairing with the camera 104, the signal processing unit 101 of the information terminal 100 can acquire communication preparation information from the two-dimensional code CD1 photographed by the camera 104. When the signal processing unit 101 acquires the communication preparation information, the signal processing unit 101 displays, for example, a message on the display unit 102 asking the user whether or not to start a communication connection with the switch device 1. When the user, upon seeing the message displayed on the display unit 102, performs an operation to instruct the information terminal 100 to start a communication connection, the signal processing unit 101 starts a communication connection between the first communication unit 105 and the switch device 1 based on the operation information received by the operation receiving unit 103. As a result, the first communication unit 105 and the switch device 1 become capable of communicating with each other (a pairing state).

[0133] When the user operates the first information terminal 100A to select creation of a two-dimensional code CD1 for pairing on a selection screen for selecting the type of two-dimensional code CD1 to be created, the output unit 108 of the signal processing unit 101 may output the two-dimensional code CD1 that stores first information including communication execution information. The communication execution information is information for causing the information terminal 100 to execute a communication connection with the switch device 1. The communication execution information includes, for example, the device name of the switch device 1 and a passcode assigned to the switch device 1.

[0134] When the output unit 108 creates the two-dimensional code CD1 storing the first information including the communication execution information, the output unit 108 outputs the created two-dimensional code CD1 to the display unit 102, to the storage unit 107, or causes a printing device to print it on a sticker substrate or the like. The user can attach the sticker substrate, on which the two-dimensional code CD1 storing the first information including the communication execution information is printed, to a fixture such as a wall or desk near the paired switch device 1, or to a predetermined attachment location.

[0135] For example, when the camera 104 of the information terminal 100 captures an image of a two-dimensional code CD1 that stores first information including communication execution information, the signal processing unit 101 can acquire the communication execution information from the two-dimensional code CD1 captured by the camera 104. Upon acquiring the communication execution information, the signal processing unit 101 starts a communication connection between the first communication unit 105 and the switch device 1 using the device name and passcode of the switch device 1 that are included in the communication execution information. This puts the first communication unit 105 and the switch device 1 in a state where they can communicate (a pairing state).

[0136] Furthermore, when the user operates the first information terminal 100A to select creation of a two-dimensional code CD1 for operation on a selection screen for selecting the type of two-dimensional code CD1 to be created, the output unit 108 of the signal processing unit 101 causes the display unit 102 to display a selection screen G5 (see FIG. 10) for selecting a virtual operation unit to be created from among a plurality of virtual operation units, based on the operation information received by the operation receiving unit 103. Here, the virtual operation unit is a virtual operation unit that is displayed on the display unit 102 of the information terminal 100 when the information terminal 100 is used to operate the load L1, which is the second load.

[0137] A character string TL4 (e.g., "Control Target") indicating the title of the screen is displayed at the top of the selection screen G5. A return button B4 is displayed to the left of the character string TL4, and an end button B5 is displayed to the right of the character string TL4.

[0138] Below the character string TL4, multiple (for example, seven) operation areas are displayed. In this embodiment, the number of virtual operation parts is up to 16, and up to 16 operation areas corresponding to up to 16 virtual operation parts can be set. However, since only up to seven operation areas can be displayed simultaneously on the selection screen G5, only operation areas R11 to R17 are displayed in the example of FIG. 10. Note that the user can switch the operation area displayed on the selection screen G5 by operating, for example, a scroll button or the like. In this embodiment, the number of virtual operation parts is equal to or greater than the number of physical operation parts 3. Therefore, more operations of the load L1 can be performed using the information terminal 100.

[0139] When the user taps on the operation area (one of the operation areas R11 to R17) corresponding to the desired virtual operation part on the selection screen G5, the signal processing unit 101 causes the display unit 102 to display an information display screen G6 (see Figure 11) that displays information about the virtual operation part corresponding to the tapped operation area, based on the operation information received by the operation receiving unit 103.

[0140] A character string TL5 (e.g., "Circuit") indicating the title of the screen is displayed at the top of the information display screen G6. A return button B4 is displayed to the left of the character string TL5, and an end button B5 is displayed to the right of the character string TL5.

[0141] Below the character string TL5, there is provided a display field C2 that displays the name of the virtual operation unit corresponding to the tapped operation area, and a display field C3 that displays the load address assigned to the virtual operation unit corresponding to the tapped operation area.

[0142] The user checks the name and load address of the virtual operation unit displayed in the display fields C2 and C3, respectively, and if there are no changes, taps the approve button B8 displayed at the bottom of the information display screen G6. When the user taps the approve button B8, the output unit 108 creates a two-dimensional code CD1 for displaying on the display unit 102 the operation screen of the virtual operation unit with the name and load address displayed in the display fields C2 and C3, and displays the created two-dimensional code CD1 on the display unit 102. Note that the two-dimensional code CD1 for operation created by the output unit 108 may store setting information, etc., set in the virtual operation unit in <Function setting of load operation unit>, etc., which will be described later.

[0143] Here, the screen displaying the two-dimensional code CD1 for operation is the same as the two-dimensional code display screen G4 displaying the two-dimensional code CD1 for app acquisition, so illustration and description of the screen displaying the two-dimensional code CD1 for operation will be omitted.

[0144] The output unit 108 may store the data of the created two-dimensional code CD1 in the storage unit 107. The output unit 108 may also transmit the data of the created two-dimensional code CD1 to a printing device and cause the printing device to print it on a sticker substrate or the like. The user can attach the sticker substrate on which the two-dimensional code CD1 for operation is printed to a fixture such as a wall or desk near the paired switch device 1, or to a predetermined attachment location.

[0145] For example, when a user activates the camera 104 of the information terminal 100 and photographs a two-dimensional code CD1 for operation with the camera 104, the signal processing unit 101 of the information terminal 100 can acquire information about the virtual operation unit from the two-dimensional code CD1 photographed by the camera 104. Based on the information about the virtual operation unit acquired from the two-dimensional code CD1 for operation, the signal processing unit 101 can display an operation screen for the virtual operation unit on the display unit 102, and the user can operate the virtual operation unit on the operation screen of the virtual operation unit.

[0146] <Password setting> When the setting menu screen G2 is displayed on the display unit 102 and the user taps the operation area R3, the signal processing unit 101 causes the display unit 102 to display a password setting screen for setting a password based on the operation information received by the operation receiving unit 103.

[0147] The password setting screen displays, for example, an input field for inputting the password before change, an input field for inputting the password after change, and an execute button for executing the password change process.

[0148] When the user operates the first information terminal 100A, inputs the password before the change and the password after the change, and then taps the execute button, the signal processing unit 101 compares the password before the change input by the user with the password stored in the memory unit 107.

[0149] If the password before the change input by the user matches the password stored in the storage unit 107, the signal processing unit 101 registers the changed password in the storage unit 107 and ends the password setting process.

[0150] If the password before change input by the user does not match the password stored in the storage unit 107, the signal processing unit 101 does not change the password and ends the password setting process.

[0151] <Load operation section function settings> When the setting menu screen G2 is displayed on the display unit 102 and the user taps, for example, on the operation area R4 for setting the load operation unit, the signal processing unit 101 causes the display unit 102 to display a screen for selecting a load operation unit to be set from the plurality of load operation units. Here, the plurality of load operation units may include four physical operation units 3 provided on the switch device 1 and up to 16 virtual operation units displayed on the display unit 102 of the information terminal 100. Therefore, in setting the load operation units, it is possible to set the control content of a first load that is performed when the physical operation unit 3 is operated, and the control content of a second load that is performed when the virtual operation unit is operated.

[0152] When a user operates the first information terminal 100A to select a load operation unit to be set from a plurality of load operation units, the signal processing unit 101 displays on the display unit 102 a name setting screen G7 (see Figure 12) for setting an operation name to be assigned to the load operation unit selected by the user.

[0153] The name setting screen G7 is a setting screen for inputting a name to be assigned to the load operation unit to be set. A character string TL6 (e.g., "Control") indicating the title of the screen is displayed at the top of the name setting screen G7. A return button B4 is displayed to the left of the character string TL6, and an end button B5 is displayed to the right of the character string TL6.

[0154] Below the character string TL6 are displayed an input field C4 for inputting a name to be assigned to the load manipulation unit to be set, and an input field C5 for inputting the type of control method for the load L1 when the load manipulation unit is operated. Also, a send button B9 is displayed at the bottom of the name setting screen G7.

[0155] When the user operates the first information terminal 100A to input a name (for example, "entrance side") to be assigned to the load operation unit to be set in the input field C4, the signal processing unit 101 stores the name of the load operation unit in the storage unit 107 based on the operation information received by the operation reception unit 103. In this way, the signal processing unit 101 of the first information terminal 100A can execute a name setting step of displaying on the display unit 102 a name setting screen G7 for setting the name of at least one of one or more physical operation units 3 and one or more virtual operation units. Therefore, the user of the first information terminal 100A can set the name of the load operation unit, including the physical operation unit 3 and the virtual operation unit, to a desired name.

[0156] Furthermore, when the user taps the pull-down button in the input field C5, the signal processing unit 101 of the first information terminal 100A displays a pull-down menu showing a list of control method types below the input field C5 based on the operation information received by the operation receiving unit 103. In this embodiment, the control method type can be selected from among an on-off control method, a pattern control method, and a dimming control method. The on-off control method is a control method that controls the operating state of a load to be operated to either an on state (a lit state) or an off state (a turned-off state). The pattern control method is a control method that controls multiple loads to be operated to operating states set for each of the multiple loads. The dimming control method is a control method that dims one or multiple loads L1 at a predetermined dimming level. Note that a color adjustment control method that adjusts the color of one or multiple loads L1 at a predetermined color temperature may also be selectable as a control method type.

[0157] <On / off control method setting> When the user inputs the name of the load operation unit in input field C4 and selects the on / off control method in input field C5, signal processing unit 101 causes display unit 102 to display setting screen G8 (see FIG. 13) for setting the control content of the on / off control method. Note that the on / off control method includes an individual control method that controls the operation state of one load to either an on state or an off state, and a group control method that controls the operation state of multiple loads to either an on state or an off state. Therefore, on setting screen G8, it is possible to set which control method, the individual control method or the group control method, will be executed when the load operation unit to be set is operated.

[0158] In the setting screen G8, input fields C6 and C7 for specifying the address of the load L1 to be controlled are displayed below the input fields C4 and C5 entered in the name setting screen G7. Note that, since the elements other than the input fields C6 and C7 are the same as those in the name setting screen G7, the same reference numerals are used for common elements and their description will be omitted.

[0159] The input field C6 displays radio buttons for selecting whether the load operation unit is to operate an individual load L1 or a group of two or more loads L1.

[0160] The input field C7 is an input field for inputting the address of the load to be controlled when the load operation unit is operated.

[0161] <Individual control method settings> When the user checks the "individual" radio button in the input field C6 of the setting screen G8, the signal processing unit 101 determines that the individual control method has been selected as the control method.

[0162] Then, when the user inputs the address of the load L1 to be controlled in the individual control method (a so-called individual control address, for example, 00-1 in the example of FIG. 13 ) into the input field C7 and then taps the send button B9, the signal processing unit 101 stores the setting information for the load operation unit to be set in the storage unit 107. The signal processing unit 101 also causes the first communication unit 105 to transmit the setting information for the load operation unit to the paired switch device 1. When the second communication unit 16 of the paired switch device 1 receives the setting information for the load operation unit from the first information terminal 100A, the signal processing unit 15 stores the setting information for the load operation unit in the storage unit 18.

[0163] Thereafter, when the user operates the physical operation unit 3 of the switch device 1, the signal processing unit 15 controls the load L1 (first load) associated with the physical operation unit 3 based on the setting information stored in the storage unit 18. The switch device 1 can control the load L1 (first load) assigned to the physical operation unit 3 based on the setting information set by the user.

[0164] <Group control method settings> When the user checks the "Group" radio button in input field C6 of setting screen G8, the signal processing unit 101 determines that the group control method has been selected as the control method, and displays setting screen G9 (see Figure 14) on the display unit 102 for entering the settings for the group control method.

[0165] On the setting screen G9, below the input field C6 of the setting screen G8, there are provided an input field C8 for inputting an address (so-called group address) to be assigned to group control, an operation area R21 operated when setting the control content of the group control, and an operation area R22 operated when setting the timer. Also, on the setting screen G9, below the operation area R22, there is displayed a slider SD1 that displays the operating state of the load L1 corresponding to the group control.

[0166] When the user enters the address of the group control to be set (e.g., "G00") in the input field C6, the signal processing unit 101 stores the address of the group control being set in the memory unit 107 based on the input information received by the operation receiving unit 103.

[0167] Furthermore, when the user taps, for example, the operation area R21, the signal processing unit 101 causes the display unit 102 to display a selection screen G10 (see Figure 15) for selecting the load L1 to be controlled by the group control being set, based on the operation information received by the operation receiving unit 103.

[0168] A character string TL7 (e.g., "Control Content") indicating the title of the screen is displayed at the top of the selection screen G10. A return button B4 is displayed to the left of the character string TL7, and an end button B5 is displayed to the right of the character string TL7.

[0169] Below the string TL7, there are displayed a checkbox CB1 to be checked when selecting all loads L1 as the control targets, and multiple checkboxes CB2 to be checked when selecting each of multiple loads L1 individually as the control targets.

[0170] When the user checks the checkbox CB1 or CB2 and then taps the return button B4, the signal processing unit 101 stores the load L1, whose checkbox CB1 or CB2 is checked, as a control target of group control in the storage unit 107. Then, the signal processing unit 101 displays the setting screen G9 on the display unit 102.

[0171] Furthermore, when the user taps the operation area R22, for example, the signal processing unit 101 displays, on the display unit 102, a subscreen for setting timer control, for example, based on the operation information received by the operation receiving unit 103. On the subscreen for setting timer control, the user can select whether or not to perform timer control, and can also set the timer time if timer control is to be performed.

[0172] In addition, the display region R23 displays the operating state of the load L1 set as the control target of the group control using a slider SD1. In the setting screen G9 shown in Fig. 14, the slider SD1 is in the OFF position, indicating that the load L1, which is the control target of the group control being set, is in the OFF state.

[0173] After completing the settings related to group control, the user scrolls through the setting screen G9 and, for example, taps a send button located at the bottom of the setting screen G9. This causes the signal processing unit 101 to store the setting information for the load operation unit to be set in the storage unit 107. The signal processing unit 101 also causes the first communication unit 105 to transmit the setting information for the load operation unit to the switch device 1. When the second communication unit 16 of the switch device 1 receives the setting information for the load operation unit from the first information terminal 100A, the signal processing unit 15 stores the setting information for the load operation unit in the storage unit 18.

[0174] <Pattern control method setting> When the name setting screen G7 (see Figure 12) is displayed on the display unit 102 of the first information terminal 100A and the user enters the name of the load operation unit in the input field C4 and selects the pattern control method in the input field C5, the signal processing unit 101 causes the display unit 102 to display the setting screen G11 (see Figure 16) for setting the control content for the pattern control method.

[0175] On the setting screen G11, an input field C9 for inputting a pattern control address (so-called pattern address) is displayed below the input fields C4 and C5 entered on the name setting screen G7. Also, below the input field C9, there are provided an operation area R24 that is operated when setting the control content of the pattern control, and an operation area R25 that is operated when setting the fade time. Below the operation area R25, there is displayed a slider SD2 that indicates the operating state of the load L1 corresponding to the pattern control. Note that, apart from the input field C9, the operation areas R24 to R25, and the slider SD2, the screen is the same as the name setting screen G7, and therefore common components are denoted by the same reference numerals and their description will be omitted.

[0176] When the user inputs the address of the pattern control to be set (e.g., "P00") in the input field C9, the signal processing unit 101 stores the address of the pattern control being set in the memory unit 107 based on the input information received by the operation receiving unit 103.

[0177] Furthermore, when the user taps, for example, the operation area R24, the signal processing unit 101 causes the display unit 102 to display a selection screen G10 (see Figure 15) for selecting the load L1 to be controlled by the pattern control being set, based on the operation information received by the operation receiving unit 103.

[0178] A character string TL7 (e.g., "Control Content") indicating the title of the screen is displayed at the top of the selection screen G10. A return button B4 is displayed to the left of the character string TL7, and an end button B5 is displayed to the right of the character string TL7.

[0179] Below the character string TL7, a check box CB1 for selecting all the loads L1 as the control targets and a plurality of check boxes CB2 for individually selecting each of the plurality of loads L1 as the control targets are displayed.

[0180] When the user checks the checkbox CB1 or CB2, the signal processing unit 101 stores the load L1, for which the checkbox CB1 or CB2 is checked, in the storage unit 107 as a control target for pattern control.

[0181] Furthermore, when the user performs an operation such as tapping on the address of the load L1 displayed on the selection screen G10, the signal processing unit 101 causes the display unit 102 to display a setting screen G12 (see Figure 17) for setting the control content of the load L1 based on the operation information received by the operation receiving unit 103.

[0182] A character string TL8 (e.g., "Control Details") indicating the title of the screen is displayed at the top of the setting screen G12. A return button B4 is displayed to the left of the character string TL8, and an exit button B5 is displayed to the right of the character string TL8.

[0183] Below the character string TL8, there are displayed a slider SD3 for switching whether or not the load L1 is to be controlled, a slider SD4 indicating the operating state of the load L1, and a slide bar SB1 for setting the dimming level of the load L1. Also, below the slide bar SB1, there is provided an operation area R26 that is operated when setting the timer, and below the operation area R26, there is displayed an approval button B10.

[0184] If the check box CB1 or the check box CB2 corresponding to the load L1 is checked, the signal processing unit 101 moves the slider SD3 to the side that makes the load L1 the control target. Note that if the user slides the slider SD3 to the side that does not make the load L1 the control target, the signal processing unit 101 excludes the load L1 from the targets of pattern control, and also unchecks the check box CB2 corresponding to the load L1 on the selection screen G10.

[0185] Furthermore, the user adjusts the slide bar SB1 to set the dimming level of the load L1. The set value of the dimming level is displayed as a numerical value on the right side of the slide bar SB1.

[0186] Furthermore, when the user taps on the operation area R26, for example, the signal processing unit 101 displays, on the display unit 102, a subscreen for setting timer control, for example, based on the operation information received by the operation receiving unit 103. On the subscreen for setting timer control, the user can select whether or not to perform timer control, and can also set the timer time if timer control is to be performed.

[0187] When the user finishes setting the control content for the load L1 and taps, for example, the approval button B10, the signal processing unit 101 finishes setting the control content for the load L1 and causes the display unit 102 to display a selection screen G5.

[0188] When the user finishes setting the control content for all the loads L1 selected as control targets on the selection screen G5 and taps, for example, the end button B5, the signal processing unit 101 stores the setting information of the multiple loads L1 that are control targets of the pattern control in the storage unit 107 in association with the address of the pattern control. The signal processing unit 101 also causes the first communication unit 105 to transmit the setting information of the pattern control to the switch device 1. When the second communication unit 16 of the switch device 1 receives the setting information of the pattern control from the first information terminal 100A, the signal processing unit 15 stores the setting information of the pattern control in the storage unit 18.

[0189] <Dimming control method setting> When the name setting screen G7 (see Figure 12) is displayed on the display unit 102 of the first information terminal 100A and the user enters the name of the load operation unit in the input field C4 and selects a dimming control method in the input field C5, the signal processing unit 101 causes the display unit 102 to display the setting screen G13 (see Figure 18) for setting the control content of the dimming control method.

[0190] When dimming the load L1 by operating the load operation unit to be set, it is necessary to specify the load address of the load L1 to be dimmed when the load operation unit is operated. On the setting screen G13, below the input fields C4 and C5 entered on the name setting screen G7, input fields C10 and C11 are displayed for setting the load address of the load L1 to be dimmed when the load operation unit to be set is operated. Also, below the input fields C10 and C11, an input field C12 is displayed for selecting whether the dimming control by the load operation unit is dimming-up control, which brightens the brightness of the load L1, or dimming-down control, which darkens the brightness of the load L1. Also, a send button B9 is displayed below the input field C13. Since the input fields C10 to C13 are the same as those on the name setting screen G7, the same reference numerals are used for common components, and their description will be omitted.

[0191] The input field C10 displays a radio button B21 that is selected when the dimming control by the load operation unit is dimming-up control, and a radio button B22 that is selected when the dimming control by the load operation unit is dimming-down control. In the example of Fig. 18, the individual control method is selected in the input field C10, so the load address of the load L1 that is to be dimmed by the individual control method is input into the input field C11. Note that if the group control method is selected in the input field C10, an input field for inputting the group control address and an operation area for selecting the control target of the group control may be displayed below the input field C10.

[0192] If the user wishes to perform dimming-up control of the load L1 when the load operation unit is operated, the user specifies the address of the load L1 to be controlled in the input fields C10 and C11 and selects radio button B21 in the input field C12. If the user wishes to perform dimming-down control of the load L1 when the load operation unit is operated, the user specifies the address of the load L1 to be controlled in the input fields C10 and C11 and selects radio button B22 in the input field C12.

[0193] Thereafter, when the user taps the send button B9, for example, the signal processing unit 101 stores setting information for the load operation unit to be set (for example, the load address of the load L1 and the details of dimming control (dimming up control or dimming down control)) in the storage unit 107. Furthermore, the signal processing unit 101 transmits the setting information for the load operation unit to be set from the first communication unit 105 to the paired switch device 1. When the second communication unit 16 of the paired switch device 1 receives the setting information for the load operation unit from the first information terminal 100A, the signal processing unit 15 stores the setting information of the load operation unit in the storage unit 18. This enables the switch device 1 to perform dimming control of the load L1 when the load operation unit to be set is operated.

[0194] Furthermore, the signal processing unit 101 of the first information terminal 100A can execute a first setting step of causing the display unit 102 to display a first setting screen (setting screens G8, G9, etc.) for setting control contents of one or more first loads when one or more physical operation units 3 are operated. Furthermore, the signal processing unit 101 of the first information terminal 100A can execute a second setting step of causing the display unit 102 to display a second setting screen (setting screens G8, G9, etc.) for setting control contents of one or more second loads when one or more virtual operation units are operated. Therefore, with the first setting screen displayed on the display unit 102, the user of the first information terminal 100A can set control contents of one or more first loads when one or more physical operation units 3 are operated. Furthermore, with the second setting screen displayed on the display unit 102, the user of the first information terminal 100A can set control contents of one or more second loads when one or more virtual operation units are operated.

[0195] Furthermore, in a first setting step, the signal processing unit 101 of the first information terminal 100A can set identification information (e.g., an address) specifying a control target including at least one of a first load and the switch device 1 that is controlled when the physical operation unit 3 is operated. Similarly, in a second setting step, the signal processing unit 101 of the first information terminal 100A can set identification information (e.g., an address) specifying a control target including at least one of a second load and the switch device that is controlled when the virtual operation unit 3 is operated. Therefore, the user of the first information terminal 100A can set desired loads L1 from among the multiple loads L1 included in the load system 120 as the first load and the second load. Here, at least a portion of one or more first loads and at least a portion of one or more second loads may be the same load L1, and the same load L1 can be operated by the physical operation unit 3 and the virtual operation unit. Furthermore, one or more first loads and one or more second loads may be different loads, and different loads L1 can be operated by the physical operation unit 3 and the virtual operation unit.

[0196] <Lock settings> When the setting menu screen G2 is displayed on the display unit 102 and the user taps the operation area R5, the signal processing unit 101 causes the display unit 102 to display the lock setting screen G14 (see Figure 19) based on the operation information received by the operation receiving unit 103.

[0197] The lock setting screen G14 is a screen for setting whether to enable or disable the operation of each of a plurality of load operation units (including one or more physical operation units 3 and one or more virtual operation units).

[0198] When a load operation unit whose operation is "valid" is operated, the switch device 1 changes the operating state of the load L1 associated with the load operation unit. On the other hand, when a load operation unit whose operation is "invalid" is operated, the switch device 1 does not perform an operation to change the operating state of the load L1 associated with the load operation unit.

[0199] However, even if the first information terminal 100A is configured to enable or disable operation for each of the multiple load operation units, only setting information for setting whether to enable or disable operation of the multiple load operation units is sent from the first information terminal 100A to the switch device 1, and operation of all of the load operation units remains valid.

[0200] That is, when the switch-side communication unit (second communication unit 16) of the switch device 1 receives the setting information from the switch device 1, the control unit 151 does not execute the setting information. The control unit switches whether to execute the setting of enabling / disabling the operation of one or more physical operation units 3 according to the setting information, in response to a switching signal input from the lock operation terminal in response to a user's operation of a lock operation unit provided in the lock operation terminal. The lock operation terminal is at least one of the switch device 1, a lock operation switch capable of communicating with the switch device 1, and the information terminal 100. When the control unit 151 of the switch device 1 executes the setting information, the operation state of the load L1 associated with the load operation unit is not switched even if the load operation unit whose operation is set to disabled is operated (this state may also be referred to as a locked state). On the other hand, when the control unit 151 of the switch device 1 does not execute the setting information, the operation of all load operation units is enabled (this state may also be referred to as an unlocked state). That is, the switch device 1 switches whether to execute the setting of enabling / disabling the operation of one or more physical operation units 3 according to the setting information, in response to a switching signal input from the lock operation terminal when the user operates a lock operation unit included in the lock operation terminal. In this embodiment, the lock operation terminal is another switch device 1B that can communicate with the switch device 1 (for example, switch device 1A), and when the lock operation unit 3A included in the switch device 1B is operated, a switching signal is input from the switch device 1B to the switch device 1A via the communication device 121. Here, the lock operation unit 3A is an operation unit different from the one or more physical operation units 3. Therefore, since the lock operation unit 3A is an operation unit different from the physical operation unit 3 for operating the first load (load L1), the possibility of an erroneous operation occurring can be reduced.

[0201] A character string TL9 (e.g., "Lock Settings") indicating the title of the screen is displayed at the top of the lock setting screen G14. A return button B4 is displayed to the left of the character string TL9, and an exit button B5 is displayed to the right of the character string TL9.

[0202] An input field C14 for inputting the address of a lock operation terminal is displayed below the character string TL9. The lock operation terminal is used to switch whether or not the switch device 1 executes setting information that sets whether operations of multiple load operation units are enabled or disabled. The lock operation terminal is, for example, a lock operation switch that can communicate with the switch device 1 to be set. In this embodiment, a switch device 1B other than the switch device 1A to be set is used as the lock operation switch, so the address of the switch device 1B used as the lock operation switch is input in the input field C14. In this way, the control method for the information terminal 100 (first information terminal 100A) further includes a registration screen display step of displaying, on the display unit 102, a registration screen (part of the lock setting screen G14) for registering identification information (address) that specifies the lock operation terminal.

[0203] Also, below the input field C14, an operation area R30 is displayed which is operated to switch to a selection screen for selecting the load operation unit to be locked.

[0204] When the user inputs the address of the lock operation terminal in the input field C14 and then taps the operation area R30, the signal processing unit 101 displays on the display unit 102 a setting screen G15 (see Figure 20) for selecting the load operation unit to be locked, based on the operation information received by the operation receiving unit 103.

[0205] A character string TL10 (e.g., "Lock Target") indicating the title of the screen is displayed at the top of the settings screen G15. A return button B4 is displayed to the left of the character string TL10, and an exit button B5 is displayed to the right of the character string TL10.

[0206] Below the character string TL10, one or more load operation units are displayed, each of which can be individually set to enable or disable operation. The load operation units to be locked include one or more physical operation units 3 and one or more virtual operation units. In this embodiment, the load operation units include, for example, four physical operation units 3 and, for example, 16 virtual operation units.

[0207] Below the character string TL10, there is provided a first selection area R31 in which it is possible to individually set whether to enable or disable the operation of each of the multiple physical operation units 3, and a second selection area R32 in which it is possible to individually set whether to enable or disable the operation of each of the multiple virtual operation units.

[0208] In the first selection area R31, the names of the four physical operation units 3 are displayed in a vertical row. To the left of the names of the four physical operation units 3, four physical operation unit setting areas R310 (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as setting areas R310) are displayed for individually setting whether to enable or disable the operation of each of the four physical operation units 3. Tapping on the setting area R310 to check the setting area R310 indicates that the operation of the physical operation unit 3 is set to be disabled.

[0209] In the second selection area R32, the names of five of the 16 virtual operation units to be displayed are displayed in a vertical row. Five virtual operation unit setting areas R320 (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as setting areas R320) for individually setting whether to enable or disable the operation of each of the five virtual operation units are displayed to the left of the names of the five virtual operation units. Tapping the selection area R320 to check the setting area R320 indicates that the operation of the virtual operation units is disabled. Note that although there are 16 virtual operation units, the second selection area R32 can only display the names of a maximum of five virtual operation units. Therefore, the user can switch the virtual operation units displayed in the second selection area R32 by operating, for example, a scroll button or the like.

[0210] The user checks the setting area R310 in the first selection area R31 corresponding to the physical operation unit 3 whose operation is to be disabled. The user also checks the setting area R320 in the second selection area R32 corresponding to the virtual operation unit whose operation is to be disabled. When the user then operates the return button B4 or the end button B5, the signal processing unit 101 stores setting information indicating whether to enable or disable the operation of each of the physical operation units 3 and the virtual operation units in the storage unit 107. The signal processing unit 101 also causes the first communication unit 105 to transmit setting information indicating whether to enable or disable the operation of each of the load operation units to the paired switch device 1. When the second communication unit 16 of the paired switch device 1 receives the setting information from the first information terminal 100A, the signal processing unit 15 stores the received setting information in the storage unit 18.

[0211] As described above, the control method for the information terminal 100 (first information terminal 100A) of this embodiment is a control method for the information terminal 100 having a communication unit (first communication unit 105) capable of communicating with the switch device 1 and a display unit 102 that displays information. The switch device 1 is provided with one or more physical operation units 3 that are operated to change the operating state of one or more loads L1 and is installed in a structure. The control method for the information terminal 100 includes a setting display step and a communication step. In the setting display step, a physical operation unit setting screen (first selection area R31 of the setting screen G15) for setting whether to enable or disable the operation of one or more physical operation units 3 is displayed on the display unit 102. In the communication step, the communication unit (first communication unit 105) transmits setting information set in the physical operation unit setting screen (first selection area R31 of the setting screen G15) to the switch device 1. In other words, the information terminal 100 has a communication unit (first communication unit 105) capable of communicating with the switch device 1 and a display unit 102 that displays information. The display unit 102 displays a physical operation unit setting screen (first selection area R31 of the setting screen G15) for setting whether to enable or disable the operation of one or more physical operation units 3. The communication unit (first communication unit 105) transmits the setting information set on the physical operation unit setting screen (first selection area R31 of the setting screen G15) to the switch device 1. This allows the user to individually set whether to enable or disable the operation of one or more physical operation units 3 provided in the switch device 1. Note that the one or more loads L1 whose operating state is switched in response to the operation of one or more physical operation units 3 are one or more first loads.

[0212] Furthermore, in this embodiment, there are one or more physical operation units 3, and the physical operation unit setting screen (first selection area R31 of setting screen G15) displays a plurality of physical operation unit setting areas R310 for individually setting whether to enable or disable the operation of each of the plurality of physical operation units 3. This allows the user to individually set whether to enable or disable the operation of each of the plurality of physical operation units 3 included in the switch device 1.

[0213] Furthermore, the control method for the information terminal 100 (first information terminal 100A) of this embodiment further includes an operation display step and a communication step. In the operation display step, operation screens G17 and G18 (see FIGS. 22 and 23) including one or more virtual operation units (sliders SD5 and SD6) that are operated to change the operation states of one or more second loads (L1) via the switch device 1 are displayed on the display unit 102. In the communication step, when a user operates one of the one or more virtual operation units (sliders SD5 and SD6) displayed on the display unit 102, the communication unit (first communication unit 105) transmits to the switch device 1 a control signal that changes the operation state of the second load (load L1) corresponding to the virtual operation unit operated by the user. Here, the number of the one or more virtual operation units is equal to or greater than the number of the one or more physical operation units 3. As a result, the user can change the operation states of one or more second loads via the switch device 1 by operating one or more virtual operation units displayed on the display unit 102 of the information terminal 100. In the operation display step, it is not essential that all of the one or more virtual operation panels are displayed on one screen of the display unit 102, and the one or more virtual operation panels may be displayed on multiple screens.

[0214] Furthermore, the control method for the information terminal 100 (first information terminal 100A) of this embodiment may further include a setting display step and a communication step. In the setting display step, a virtual operation panel setting screen (second selection area R32 of the setting screen G15) for setting whether to enable or disable the operation of one or more virtual operation panels is displayed on the display unit 102. In the communication step, the communication unit (first communication unit 105) transmits the setting information set on the virtual operation panel setting screen to the switch device 1. This allows the user to individually set whether to enable or disable the operation of one or more virtual operation panels displayed on the operation screen of the information terminal 100.

[0215] In this embodiment, there are one or more virtual operation units, and the virtual operation unit setting screen (second selection area R32 of setting screen G15) displays multiple virtual operation unit setting areas R320 for individually setting whether to enable or disable the operation of each of the multiple virtual operation units. Therefore, the user can individually set whether to enable or disable the operation of one or more virtual operation units displayed on the operation screen of information terminal 100.

[0216] Incidentally, the display unit 102 is capable of displaying at least a portion of the physical operation unit setting screen (first selection area R31 of the setting screen G15) and at least a portion of the virtual operation unit setting screen (second selection area R32 of the setting screen G15) on one screen. Therefore, the user can set whether to enable or disable the operation of the physical operation unit 3 and the virtual operation unit on the physical operation unit setting screen and the virtual operation unit setting screen displayed on one screen of the display unit 102.

[0217] When the first communication unit 17 of the switch device 1 (e.g., switch device 1A) in the unlocked state receives a switching signal from a lock operation terminal (e.g., switch device 1B), the signal processing unit 15 executes the setting information stored in the storage unit 18, and switches to a locked state in which operation of the load operation unit is disabled. As a result, even if a load operation unit whose operation is disabled in the setting information is operated, the switch device 1 does not perform an operation to change the operating state of the load L1 associated with the load operation unit whose operation is disabled. Therefore, it is possible to prohibit operation of the load L1 associated with the load operation unit whose operation is disabled.

[0218] The lock operation terminal that switches whether the switch device 1 executes the setting information may be the switch device 1 itself. For example, the switch device 1 may be provided with an operation switch for lock operation, and when a user operates the operation switch for lock operation, the switch device 1 is switched to a locked state in which the setting information is executed, or to an unlocked state in which the execution of the setting information is stopped. The operation switch for lock operation may be a switch separate from the push button switch 6 operated by the physical operation unit 3, or may be shared with the push button switch 6 operated by the physical operation unit 3.

[0219] Furthermore, the lock operation terminal that switches whether the switch device 1 executes the setting information may be the information terminal 100. For example, when a user taps a lock operation button displayed on the display unit 102 of the information terminal 100, a switching signal may be transmitted from the information terminal 100 to the switch device 1, and the switch device 1 may be switched to a locked state or an unlocked state in response to the switching signal from the information terminal 100.

[0220] As described above, in this embodiment, the lock operation terminal preferably includes at least one of the switch device 1, a lock operation switch capable of communicating with the switch device 1, and the information terminal 100. A user can use these lock operation terminals to switch the switch device 1 between a locked state and an unlocked state.

[0221] It is not essential that the control unit 151 switches whether to enable / disable the load operation unit according to the setting information upon receiving a switching signal from the lock operation terminal. When the switch device 1 receives setting information from the first information terminal 100A, the control unit 151 may execute the setting of enabling / disabling the load operation unit according to the setting information. That is, when the switch-side communication unit (second communication unit 16) receives setting information from the information terminal 100 (first information terminal 100A), the control unit 151 may execute the setting of enabling / disabling the operation of one or more physical operation units 3 according to the setting information. In this case, even if the physical operation unit 3 whose operation has been disabled is operated, the operation state of the load L1 associated with the physical operation unit 3 can be prevented from being switched simply by setting the operation of the physical operation unit 3 to enable / disable in the first information terminal 100A, without performing an operation to switch from the unlocked state to the locked state using the lock operation terminal.

[0222] (3-3) Load operation using an information terminal The operation of the second information terminal 100B when a user (for example, a facility user) uses the second information terminal 100B to operate the load L1 via the switch device 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 21 to 23 and so on.

[0223] When the user operates the second information terminal 100B to initiate a communication connection between the first communication unit 105 and the switch device 1, and the communication connection between the first communication unit 105 and the switch device 1 is completed, an initial screen G1 (see Figure 6) is displayed on the display unit 102 of the second information terminal 100B.

[0224] When the user taps the selection button B1 while the initial screen G1 is displayed on the display unit 102, the signal processing unit 101 causes the display unit 102 to display an operation screen G16 (see Figure 21) for operating the load L1 via the paired switch device 1.

[0225] At the top of the operation screen G16, for example, a character string TL11 (for example, "large conference room") indicating the name assigned to the paired switch device 1 is displayed. To the right of the character string TL11, an end button B5 is displayed.

[0226] Below the character string TL11, two selection buttons B11 and B12 are displayed.

[0227] When the user performs, for example, a tap operation on the selection button B11, the signal processing unit 101 displays, on the operation screen G16, a plurality of operation areas respectively corresponding to a plurality of physical operation units 3 included in the switch device 1. When the user performs, for example, a tap operation on a desired operation area, the signal processing unit 101 causes the first communication unit 105 to transmit, to the paired switch device 1, an operation signal indicating that the physical operation unit 3 corresponding to the operation area has been operated.

[0228] When the user taps the selection button B12, for example, the signal processing unit 101 displays one or more (e.g., eight in FIG. 21) operation units R41 to R48 on the operation screen G16 as one or more virtual operation units set in the second information terminal 100B. In FIG. 21, the areas corresponding to the operation units R41 to R48 are surrounded by dashed lines. Each of the eight operation units R41 to R48 displays characters indicating the name assigned to the corresponding virtual operation unit and its current operating state. For example, operation unit R41 displays characters indicating the name assigned to the corresponding virtual operation unit (e.g., "all lights") and characters indicating the current operating state (e.g., "OFF").

[0229] In addition, if the switch device 1 is executing setting information that sets the operation of the load operation unit to enabled / disabled, when the second information terminal 100B pairs with the switch device 1, the signal processing unit 101 of the second information terminal 100B can obtain information from the switch device 1 about the load operation unit whose operation has been set to disabled.

[0230] Therefore, when a user operates a virtual operation unit whose operation has been set to disabled, the signal processing unit 101 of the second information terminal 100B may display information notifying that the operation has been set to disabled on the display unit 102. That is, in the operation display step, when a user operates a virtual operation unit whose operation has been set to disabled among one or more virtual operation units displayed on the operation screen G16, information notifying that the operation has been set to disabled may be displayed on the display unit 102. This makes it possible to notify the user that the user has operated a virtual operation unit whose operation has been set to disabled.

[0231] The signal processing unit 101 of the second information terminal 100B may display, among the one or more virtual operation units, a virtual operation unit whose operation is set to enabled and a virtual operation unit whose operation is set to disabled in different display modes. That is, in the operation display step, among the one or more virtual operation units, a virtual operation unit whose operation is set to enabled and a virtual operation unit whose operation is set to disabled may be displayed in different display modes. For example, the signal processing unit 101 may display a virtual operation unit whose operation is set to enabled and a virtual operation unit whose operation is set to disabled in different colors or brightnesses. This allows the user to visually distinguish between a virtual operation unit whose operation is set to enabled and a virtual operation unit whose operation is set to disabled.

[0232] Furthermore, the signal processing unit 101 of the second information terminal 100B may not display, on the operation screen G16, any of the one or more virtual operation units whose operation is set to disabled. That is, in the operation display step, it is preferable to display, on the operation screen G16, any of the one or more virtual operation units whose operation is set to enabled, and not display any of the one or more virtual operation units whose operation is set to disabled. This reduces the possibility that a user will erroneously operate a virtual operation unit whose operation is set to disabled.

[0233] When the user taps on the operation unit R42, for example, the signal processing unit 101 displays an operation screen G17 (see FIG. 22) of a virtual operation unit corresponding to the operation unit R42 on the display unit 102 based on operation information received by the operation receiving unit 103. The operation unit R42 is a virtual operation unit named "presentation scene," and corresponds to the virtual operation unit operated to execute pattern control.

[0234] The operation screen G17 is a screen for operating a virtual operation section named "presentation scene" that corresponds to the operation section R42.

[0235] At the top of the operation screen G17, for example, a character string TL12 (for example, "Control") indicating the title of the operation screen G17 is displayed. An end button B5 is displayed to the right of the character string TL12.

[0236] Also, below the character string TL12, a slider SD5 is displayed as a virtual operation unit for executing a pattern control named "presentation scene." When the user slides the slider SD5 from the OFF position to the ON position, the signal processing unit 101 causes the first communication unit 105 to transmit an address assigned to the pattern control named "presentation scene" to the switch device 1 based on the operation information received by the operation receiving unit 103. When the second communication unit 16 of the switch device 1 receives the address of the pattern control from the second information terminal 100B, the signal processing unit 15 causes the first communication unit 17 to transmit the address of the pattern control to the communication device 121. When the communication device 121 receives the address of the pattern control from the switch device 1, it transmits a control signal to the control terminal 9 that controls the load L1 assigned to the pattern control of the presentation scene. This allows the load L1 assigned to the pattern control of the presentation scene to operate in the operating state set in the presentation scene.

[0237] 22 is an example of an operation screen in the pattern control system, and a slider SD5 is displayed as the virtual operation unit, but the virtual operation unit is not limited to the slider SD5 and can be changed as appropriate. Also, while Fig. 22 is an example of an operation screen in the pattern control system, an operation screen in the on / off control system (individual control system or group control system) may also display a virtual operation unit for switching the operation target on / off, just like the operation screen in the pattern control system.

[0238] 21, when the user taps an operation area corresponding to the dimming control method, the signal processing unit 101 causes the display unit 102 to display an operation screen G18 as shown in FIG.

[0239] A character string TL12 (for example, "Control") indicating the title of the screen is displayed at the top of the operation screen G18. An end button B5 is displayed to the right of the character string TL12.

[0240] Below the character string TL12, a slider SD6 is displayed as a virtual control unit for executing dimming control. Also, below the slider SD6, a slide bar SB2 is displayed for setting the dimming level of the load L1 to be operated.

[0241] The user operates the slide bar SB2 to adjust the dimming level to a desired value. When the user slides the slider SD6 from the OFF position to the ON position, the control unit 110 of the signal processing unit 101 causes the first communication unit 105 to transmit the load address and dimming address assigned to the dimming control and the dimming level setting value to the switch device 1. When the second communication unit 16 of the switch device 1 receives the load address, dimming address, and dimming level setting value from the second information terminal 100B, the signal processing unit 15 causes the first communication unit 17 to transmit the load address, dimming address, and dimming level setting value to the communication device 121. When the communication device 121 receives the load address, dimming address, and dimming level setting value from the switch device 1, it transmits a control signal indicating the dimming level setting value to the control terminal 9 that controls the dimming of the load L1 corresponding to the load address and dimming address. This allows the load L1, which is the target of the dimming control method, to be dimmed at the specified dimming level.

[0242] In this way, when the user operates one of the one or more virtual operation parts displayed on the display unit 102 of the second information terminal 100B, the control unit 110 causes the communication unit (first communication unit 105) to transmit a control signal for changing the operation state of the second load corresponding to the virtual operation part operated by the user to the switch device 1. This allows the user to change the operation state of the second load via the switch device 1 by operating the second information terminal 100B.

[0243] The switch device 1 includes a status display unit 10 that displays the operating state of a first load (load L1) associated with the physical operation unit 3. When the physical operation unit 3 is operated, the operating state of the first load (load L1) associated with the physical operation unit 3 is switched, and the signal processing unit 15 displays the operating state of the first load (load L1) associated with the physical operation unit 3 on the status display unit 10. For example, if the load L1 associated with the physical operation unit 3 is lit, the signal processing unit 15 causes the first light-emitting unit 11 of the status display unit 10 to emit light and the second light-emitting unit 12 to turn off. Furthermore, if the load L1 associated with the physical operation unit 3 is turned off, the signal processing unit 15 turns off the first light-emitting unit 11 of the status display unit 10 and causes the second light-emitting unit 12 to emit light.

[0244] Here, even if a user operates a physical operation unit 3 for which a setting to disable operation has been executed among the one or more physical operation units 3, the signal processing unit 101 does not perform control to change the operating state of the first load (load L1) corresponding to the operated physical operation unit 3. Therefore, the signal processing unit 101 does not change the display mode of the status display unit 10 corresponding to the physical operation unit 3 for which a setting to disable operation has been executed. In other words, even if a user operates a physical operation unit 3 for which a setting to disable operation has been executed among the one or more physical operation units 3, the display mode of the status display unit 10 does not change. Since the display mode of the status display unit 10 does not change, the user can know that he or she has operated a physical operation unit 3 for which operation has been disabled.

[0245] It is preferable that the display mode of the status display unit 10 when the operation of one or more physical operation units 3 is disabled differs from the display mode of the status display unit 10 when the operation of one or more physical operation units 3 is enabled. For example, the signal processing unit 101 changes the light color, brightness, and light emission pattern (for example, blinking cycle) of the status display unit 10 depending on whether the operation of one or more physical operation units 3 is disabled or enabled. Therefore, by visually checking the display mode of the status display unit 10, the user can visually understand whether the operation of the physical operation unit 3 on which the status display unit 10 is provided is enabled or disabled.

[0246] Incidentally, when the two-dimensional code for operation described in <Creating a two-dimensional code> of "(3-2) Setting a switch device using an information terminal" is read by the camera 104 of the information terminal 100, the signal processing unit 101 can display the operation screen of the virtual operation unit on the display unit 102 based on the information read from the two-dimensional code.

[0247] In this case, the user's effort in displaying the operation screen on the display unit 102 can be reduced compared to when the operation screen of the virtual operation unit is displayed on the display unit 102 from the initial screen G1 via the operation screen G16.

[0248] (4) Variations The above embodiment is merely one of various embodiments of the present disclosure, and various modifications can be made to the above embodiment depending on the design and the like as long as the object of the present disclosure can be achieved.

[0249] Furthermore, functions similar to those of the information terminal 100 may be embodied as a control method for the information terminal 100, a computer program, or a non-transitory recording medium on which a program is recorded.

[0250] A control method according to one aspect is a control method for an information terminal 100. The information terminal 100 has a display unit 102 that displays information and an operation receiving unit 103 that receives a user's operation. The control method includes a display step and an output step. In the display step, a creation screen for creating a two-dimensional code CD1 that stores at least one of first information related to communication with the switch device 1 and second information related to control of the load L1 via the switch device 1 is displayed on the display unit 102. In the output step, the operation receiving unit 103 outputs the two-dimensional code CD1 based on the operation received.

[0251] Another aspect of the control method is a control method for an information terminal 100. The information terminal 100 has a communication unit (first communication unit 105) capable of communicating with the switch device 1 and a display unit 102 that displays information. The switch device 1 is provided with one or more physical operation units 3 that are operated to change the operating states of one or more first loads, and is installed in a structure. The control method includes a display step and a communication step. In the display step, one or more virtual operation units that are operated to change the operating states of one or more second loads via the switch device 1 are displayed on the display unit 102. In the communication step, when a user operates one of the one or more virtual operation units displayed on the display unit 102, the communication unit (first communication unit 105) transmits to the switch device 1 a control signal that changes the operating state of the second load corresponding to the virtual operation unit operated by the user. The number of the one or more virtual operation units is equal to or greater than the number of the one or more physical operation units 3.

[0252] Another embodiment of the control method is a control method for an information terminal 100. The information terminal 100 has a communication unit (first communication unit 105) capable of communicating with the switch device 1 and a display unit 102 that displays information. The switch device 1 is provided with one or more physical operation units 3 that are operated to change the operating state of one or more loads L1, and is installed in a structure. The control method for the information terminal 100 includes a setting display step and a communication step. In the setting display step, a physical operation unit setting screen (first selection area R31 of the setting screen G15) for setting whether to enable or disable the operation of one or more physical operation units 3 is displayed on the display unit 102. In the communication step, the communication unit (first communication unit 105) transmits setting information set in the physical operation unit setting screen (first selection area R31 of the setting screen G15) to the switch device 1.

[0253] A (computer) program according to one aspect is a program for causing a computer system to execute the above control method.

[0254] The execution entity of the switch device 1, the information terminal 100, or the control method for the information terminal 100 in the present disclosure includes a computer system. The computer system is primarily composed of a processor and memory as hardware. The processor executes a program recorded in the memory of the computer system to realize the functions of the execution entity of the switch device 1, the information terminal 100, or the control method for the information terminal 100 in the present disclosure. The program may be pre-recorded in the memory of the computer system, provided via a telecommunications line, or provided by being recorded on a non-transitory recording medium readable by the computer system, such as a memory card, an optical disk, or a hard disk drive. 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). The integrated circuits, such as ICs and LSIs, are referred to by different names depending on the degree of integration, and include integrated circuits called system LSIs, very large-scale integration (VLSI), or ultra-large-scale integration (ULSI). Furthermore, a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), which is programmed after the LSI is manufactured, or a logic device capable of reconfiguring the connections within the LSI or the circuit partitions within the LSI, can also be employed as a processor. Multiple electronic circuits may be integrated into a single chip or distributed across multiple chips. Multiple chips may be integrated into a single device or distributed across multiple devices. The computer system referred to here includes a microcontroller having one or more processors and one or more memories. Therefore, a microcontroller may also be composed of one or more electronic circuits, including a semiconductor integrated circuit or a large-scale integrated circuit.

[0255] In the above embodiment, the load L1 includes the relay Ry1 and the lighting load A1, but it is not essential that the load L1 include the relay Ry1. The load L1 must include at least the lighting load A1. Furthermore, the load L1 is not limited to one that includes the lighting load A1, and may also include a ventilation fan, etc.

[0256] In the above embodiment, the lock operation terminal is the switch device 1 capable of communicating with the switch device 1 to be set, but it may also be the switch device 1 to be set itself. When a specific switch provided in the switch device 1 to be set is operated, it may switch between enabling and disabling the operation of the load operation unit (physical operation unit 3) provided in the switch device 1 to be set. Furthermore, the lock operation terminal may be the information terminal 100. That is, the user may operate the information terminal 100 to set whether to enable or disable the operation of the load operation unit.

[0257] (summary) The above-described embodiments and the like disclose the following aspects.

[0258] The control method of the first aspect is a control method for an information terminal (100) having a communication unit (105) capable of communicating with a switch device (1) and a display unit (102) that displays information. The switch device (1) includes one or more physical operation units (3) that are operated to change the operating states of one or more first loads, and is installed in a structure. The control method includes a display step and a communication step. In the display step, one or more virtual operation units (R41 to R48, SD5, SD6, SB2) that are operated to change the operating states of one or more second loads via the switch device (1) are displayed on the display unit (102). In the communication step, when a user operates one of the one or more virtual operation units (R41 to R48, SD5, SD6, SB2) displayed on the display unit (102), the communication unit (105) transmits to the switch device (1) a control signal that changes the operating state of the second load corresponding to the virtual operation unit (R41 to R48, SD5, SD6, SB2) operated by the user. The number of the one or more virtual operation units (R41 to R48, SD5, SD6, SB2) is equal to or greater than the number of the one or more physical operation units (3).

[0259] According to this aspect, by using the information terminal 100, it is possible to increase the variety of operations of the loads (including the first load and the second load) compared to when the first load is operated only by the physical operation unit 3 of the switch device 1. Therefore, according to this aspect, it is possible to improve the usability of the switch device 1.

[0260] In the control method of the second aspect, in the first aspect, the method further includes a first setting step and a second setting step. In the first setting step, a first setting screen for setting the control content of one or more first loads when one or more physical operation units (3) are operated is displayed on the display unit (102). In the second setting step, a second setting screen for setting the control content of one or more second loads when one or more virtual operation units (R41 to R48, SD5, SD6, SB2) are operated is displayed on the display unit (102).

[0261] According to this embodiment, the control contents of one or more first loads when one or more physical operation units (3) are operated and the control contents of one or more second loads when one or more virtual operation units (R41 to R48, SD5, SD6, SB2) are operated can be set to desired control contents.

[0262] In the control method of the third aspect, in the first or second aspect, at least a part of the one or more first loads and at least a part of the one or more second loads are the same load (L1).

[0263] According to this embodiment, it is possible to assign control contents of the same load (L1) to the physical operation unit (3) and the virtual operation units (R41 to R48, SD5, SD6, SB2).

[0264] In the control method of the fourth aspect, in the second or third aspect, the control content of the load (L1) including at least one of one or more first loads and one or more second loads includes information regarding the type of control method.

[0265] According to this aspect, the type of control method can be set as the operating state of the load (L1) when the physical operation unit (3) or the virtual operation units (R41 to R48, SD5, SD6, SB2) are operated.

[0266] In the control method of the fifth aspect, in the fourth aspect, the type of control method includes at least one of an individual control method, a group control method, and a pattern control method. In the individual control method, the operating state of the load (L1) is controlled individually. In the group control method, the operating states of two or more loads (L1) are collectively controlled to a predetermined operating state. In the pattern control method, two or more loads (L1) are controlled to an operating state set for each load (L1).

[0267] According to this aspect, the control content when the physical operation unit (3) or the virtual operation units (R41 to R48, SD5, SD6, SB2) are operated can be set to any one of the individual control method, group control method, and pattern control method.

[0268] In the control method of the sixth aspect, in the fifth aspect, the load (L1) is a lighting load (A1), and the control of the operating state of the lighting load (A1) includes at least one of a lighting state, an extinguished state, a dimmed lighting state, and a tonal color lighting state. In the lighting state, the lighting load (A1) is turned on, and in the extinguished state, the lighting load (A1) is turned off. In the dimmed lighting state, the lighting load (A1) is turned on at a predetermined dimming level, and in the tonal color lighting state, the lighting load (A1) is turned on at a predetermined color temperature.

[0269] According to this aspect, the operating state of the lighting load (A1) can be set to any one of a light-on state, a light-off state, a dimmed light-on state, and a toned light-on state.

[0270] In the control method of the seventh aspect, in the second aspect, in the first setting step, it is possible to set identification information specifying a control target including at least one of a first load and a switch device (1) that is controlled when the physical operation unit (3) is operated. In the second setting step, it is possible to set identification information specifying a control target including at least one of a second load and a switch device (1) that is controlled when the virtual operation units (R41 to R48, SD5, SD6, SB2) are operated.

[0271] According to this aspect, it is possible to set a desired first load or switch device (1) as the controlled object.

[0272] The control method of the eighth aspect is the control method of any one of the first to seventh aspects, further including a name setting step of displaying a name setting screen on the display unit (102) for setting a name for the switch device (1).

[0273] According to this aspect, the name of the switch device (1) can be set to a desired name.

[0274] The control method of the ninth aspect, in any one of the first to eighth aspects, further includes a name setting step of displaying on the display unit (102) a name setting screen for setting names for at least one of the one or more physical operation units (3) and the one or more virtual operation units (R41 to R48, SD5, SD6, SB2).

[0275] According to this aspect, the name of at least one of the one or more physical operation units (3) and the one or more virtual operation units (R41 to R48, SD5, SD6, SB2) can be set to a desired name.

[0276] A program according to a tenth aspect is a program for causing a computer system to execute the control method according to any one of the first to ninth aspects.

[0277] This embodiment has the advantage of improving the ease of use of the switch device (1).

[0278] An information terminal (100) of an eleventh aspect includes a communication unit (105) capable of communicating with a switch device (1), a display unit (102) that displays information, and a control unit (110). The switch device (1) includes one or more physical operation units (3) that are operated to change the operating state of one or more first loads, and is installed on a structure. The display unit (102) can display one or more virtual operation units (R41 to R48, SD5, SD6, SB2) that are operated to change the operating state of one or more second loads via the switch device (1). The number of the one or more virtual operation units (R41 to R48, SD5, SD6, SB2) is equal to or greater than the number of the one or more physical operation units (3). When a user operates one of the one or more virtual operation units (R41 to R48, SD5, SD6, SB2) displayed on the display unit (102), the control unit (110) causes the communication unit (105) to transmit to the switch device (1) a control signal that changes the operating state of the second load corresponding to the virtual operation unit (R41 to R48, SD5, SD6, SB2) operated by the user.

[0279] According to this aspect, by using the information terminal 100, it is possible to increase the variety of operations of the loads (including the first load and the second load) compared to when the first load is operated only by the physical operation unit 3 of the switch device 1. Therefore, according to this aspect, it is possible to improve the usability of the switch device 1.

[0280] The switch device (1) of the 12th aspect includes a switch-side communication unit (16) capable of communicating with the information terminal (100) of the 11th aspect, and one or more physical operation units (3) that are operated to change the operating state of one or more first loads.

[0281] This embodiment has the advantage of improving the ease of use of the switch device (1).

[0282] A load system (120) according to a thirteenth aspect includes the switch device (1) according to the twelfth aspect and one or more first loads.

[0283] This embodiment has the advantage of improving the ease of use of the switch device (1).

[0284] Not limited to the above-mentioned aspects, various configurations (including modified examples) of the information terminal (100) according to the above-mentioned embodiment can be embodied as a control method for the information terminal (100), a (computer) program, or a non-transitory recording medium on which a program is recorded, etc.

[0285] The configurations according to the second to ninth aspects are not essential for the control method of the information terminal (100), and can be omitted as appropriate. [Explanation of symbols]

[0286] 1 Switching device 3 Physical operation section 16 Switch side communication section 100 Information terminal 102 Display section 105 Communications Department 110 control section 120 Resistance System A1 Lighting load L1 load R41~R48 Operation section (virtual operation section) SB2 Slide bar (virtual control section) SD5, SD6 slider (virtual control section)

Claims

1. A control method for an information terminal having a communication unit capable of communicating with a switch device that is installed in a structure and that includes one or more physical operation units that are operated to change an operating state of one or more first loads, and a display unit that displays information, a display step of displaying on the display unit one or more virtual operation units that are operated to change the operating states of one or more second loads via the switch device; a communication step in which, when a user operates any one of the one or more virtual operation units displayed on the display unit, the communication unit transmits to the switch device a control signal that changes an operating state of the second load corresponding to the virtual operation unit operated by the user, the number of the one or more virtual operation units is equal to or greater than the number of the one or more physical operation units; Control method.

2. a first setting step of displaying a first setting screen on the display unit, the first setting screen being used to set control details of the one or more first loads when the one or more physical operation units are operated; a second setting step of displaying a second setting screen on the display unit, the second setting screen setting control content of the one or more second loads when the one or more virtual operation units are operated, The control method according to claim 1 .

3. At least a portion of the one or more first loads and at least a portion of the one or more second loads are the same load. The control method according to claim 1 .

4. The control content of the load including at least one of the one or more first loads and the one or more second loads includes information on a type of control method. The control method according to claim 2 .

5. The type of the control method is: an individual control system for individually controlling the operating states of the loads; a group control system for collectively controlling the operating states of two or more of the loads to a predetermined operating state; a pattern control system for controlling two or more of the loads to operating states set for each of the loads; at least one of: The control method according to claim 4.

6. the load is a lighting load; The control of the operating state of the lighting load includes: a lighting state in which the lighting load is turned on; an off state in which the lighting load is turned off; a dimmed lighting state in which the lighting load is turned on at a predetermined dimming level; and a color-adjusted lighting state in which the lighting load is lit at a predetermined color temperature, The control method according to claim 5.

7. In the first setting step, identification information specifying a control target including at least one of the first load and the switch device to be controlled when the physical operation unit is operated can be set, In the second setting step, identification information specifying a control target including at least one of the second load and the switch device to be controlled when the virtual operation unit is operated can be set. The control method according to claim 2 .

8. a name setting step of displaying a name setting screen on the display unit to set a name of the switch device, The control method according to claim 1 .

9. a name setting step of displaying a name setting screen on the display unit to set a name for at least one of the one or more physical operation units and the one or more virtual operation units; The control method according to claim 1 .

10. In the computer system, To execute the control method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, program.

11. a communication unit capable of communicating with a switch device that is installed in the structure and that includes one or more physical operation units that are operated to change the operating state of one or more first loads; a display unit that displays information; a control unit; the display unit is capable of displaying one or more virtual operation units that are operated to change the operating states of one or more second loads via the switch device; the number of the one or more virtual operation units is equal to or greater than the number of the one or more physical operation units, When a user operates any one of the one or more virtual operation units displayed on the display unit, the control unit causes the communication unit to transmit to the switch device a control signal that changes the operating state of the second load corresponding to the virtual operation unit operated by the user. Information terminal.

12. a switch-side communication unit capable of communicating with the information terminal according to claim 11; the one or more physical operation units that are operated to change the operating state of the one or more first loads, Switch device.

13. A switch device according to claim 12; the one or more first loads; Load system.

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