Information terminals, communication systems, configuration methods, and programs.

Abstract

This invention provides an information terminal that can assist in setting appropriate operating modes for wireless communication devices. [Solution] The information terminal 30 includes a wireless communication unit 33 that receives a beacon signal emitted by a wireless communication device 20, a display unit 32, an information processing unit 34 that displays an operating mode selection screen on the display unit 32, with different options depending on the first information contained in the received beacon signal, and an operation reception unit 31 that receives an operation mode selection operation from the user. The information processing unit 34 transmits operation mode setting information to the wireless communication device 20 using the wireless communication unit 33 in order to set the operating mode selected by the selection operation to the wireless communication device 20.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an information terminal used for initial settings and the like of a communication system.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a lighting system including a lighting control device that transmits a dimming signal for controlling dimming of a lighting device and a mode signal related to an operation mode to the lighting device together.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The present invention provides an information terminal or the like that can assist in setting an appropriate operation mode for a wireless communication device.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] An information terminal according to an aspect of the present invention includes a wireless communication unit that receives a beacon signal emitted by a wireless communication device, a display unit, an information processing unit that displays a selection screen for an operation mode with different options on the display unit according to first information included in the received beacon signal, and an operation reception unit that receives a selection operation for the operation mode from a user. The information processing unit transmits operation mode setting information for setting the operation mode selected by the selection operation to the wireless communication device using the wireless communication unit.

[0006] A communication system according to an aspect of the present invention includes the information terminal and the wireless communication device.

[0007] A setting method according to one aspect of the present invention is a setting method performed by an information terminal equipped with a display unit, and includes the steps of: receiving a beacon signal emitted by a wireless communication device; displaying an operating mode selection screen on the display unit, the selection options of which differ depending on a first piece of information contained in the received beacon signal; receiving an operation to select the operating mode from a user; and transmitting operating mode setting information to the wireless communication device for setting the operating mode selected by the selection operation to the wireless communication device.

[0008] A program according to one aspect of the present invention is a program that causes the information terminal to execute the setting method described above. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] The information terminal of the present invention can assist in setting an appropriate operating mode for wireless communication equipment. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a communication system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a mesh network. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a flowchart showing an overview of the initial setup process. [Figure 4A] Figure 4A is the first sequence diagram of the initial setup operation. [Figure 4B] Figure 4B is the second sequence diagram of the initial setup operation. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows an example of the initial setup screen. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a sequence diagram showing Example 1 of the operating mode setting phase. [Figure 7A] Figure 7A shows an example of the operating mode selection screen (Example 1). [Figure 7B] Figure 7B shows an example 2 of the operating mode selection screen. [Figure 8]FIG. 8 is a sequence diagram showing Example 2 of the operation mode setting phase. [Figure 9A] FIG. 9A is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen for the control content of area control for a wireless communication device in which the illumination mode is set. [Figure 9B] FIG. 9B is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen for the control content of area control for a wireless communication device in which the projector mode is set. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a method of assigning characters indicating an operation mode. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between the content of control information and the operation mode. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of setting a plurality of operation modes. MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments will be specifically described with reference to the drawings. Note that each of the embodiments described below shows an inclusive or specific example. The numerical values, shapes, materials, components, arrangement positions and connection forms of the components, steps, order of steps, etc. shown in the following embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the present invention. In addition, among the components in the following embodiments, the components not described in the independent claims are described as optional components.

[0012] Note that each figure is a schematic diagram and is not necessarily strictly illustrated. Also, in each figure, substantially the same configuration is denoted by the same reference numeral, and duplicate descriptions may be omitted or simplified.

[0013] (Embodiment) [Configuration] First, the configuration of the communication system according to the embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the communication system according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the communication system 10 includes a plurality of wireless communication devices 20 and an information terminal 30.

[0014] In communication system 10, each of the plurality of wireless communication devices 20 has a wireless communication function, and the plurality of wireless communication devices 20 constitute a wireless mesh network (hereinafter, also simply referred to as a mesh network). The wireless mesh network is an example of a wireless communication network.

[0015] FIG. 2 is a diagram conceptually showing a mesh network. The circles in FIG. 2 correspond to one wireless communication device 20 (in other words, a communication node). In a mesh network, when transmitting information from a certain communication node (also described as the first communication node) to another communication node (also described as the second communication node), the information is transmitted, for example, in a routing manner, but may also be transmitted in other manners such as a flooding manner.

[0016] Specifically, the wireless communication device 20 is, for example, a lighting fixture, a lighting remote controller, a PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) dimmer, a scheduler, a projector, or an AC (Alternating Current) relay, etc. When the wireless communication device 20 is a lighting fixture, the information transmitted through the mesh network is, for example, control information for controlling the lighting device 20 to turn on, turn off, or dim. Also, as will be described later, when an environmental sensor is included in the mesh network, there may be a case where the measured value (sensing information) of the environmental sensor is transmitted.

[0017] First, the wireless communication device 20 will be described. As described above, the wireless communication device 20 is a lighting fixture, a lighting remote controller, a PWM dimmer, a scheduler, a projector, an AC relay, or a sensor, etc.

[0018] The lighting fixture is, for example, a base light installed on the ceiling of an indoor space to illuminate the indoor space. Note that the form of the wireless communication device 20 is not particularly limited, and it may be a ceiling light, a downlight, or a spotlight, etc.

[0019] A PWM dimmer is a device that can dim the lighting fixture attached to it. A scheduler is a device that turns on, turns off, or dims the wireless communication device 20 according to a pre-set schedule. A projector is a device that can project videos or still images and is used, for example, for theatrical performances.

[0020] AC relays include the following two types: first AC relay and second AC relay. The first AC relay is a device that is mounted on a wiring duct and can turn on and off a single device mounted on the wiring duct by switching the AC power to that device on and off. The second AC relay is a device that is mounted at the base of a wiring duct and can turn on and off all devices mounted on the wiring duct by switching the AC power supply to the wiring duct on and off. Alternatively, an AC relay may be a wireless control switch or the like that does not utilize a wiring duct.

[0021] Sensors include motion sensors and environmental sensors. Environmental sensors include temperature sensors, humidity sensors, brightness sensors, carbon dioxide concentration sensors, and PM (Particle Matter) sensors.

[0022] As described above, each of the multiple wireless communication devices 20 has a wireless communication function, and the multiple wireless communication devices 20 constitute a mesh network. Specifically, each wireless communication device 20 comprises a wireless communication unit 21, a light source 22, and a storage unit 23.

[0023] The wireless communication unit 21 is a wireless communication circuit that enables wireless communication (more specifically, radio wave communication) between wireless communication devices 20 and other wireless communication devices 20 and information terminals 30. After wireless communication devices 20 join the mesh network, the wireless communication unit 21 communicates through the mesh network. Before wireless communication devices 20 join the mesh network, the wireless communication unit 21 periodically transmits beacon signals (sometimes called advertisement signals, etc.) and communicates individually with information terminals 30 that receive the beacon signals. Specifically, the wireless communication unit 21 communicates wirelessly according to communication standards such as BLE (Bluetooth® Low Energy) or Bluetooth® mesh.

[0024] The light source 22 flashes in the identification and registration phase described later to notify the installer of the installation location of the wireless communication device 20. The light source 22 is implemented by, for example, an LED (Light Emitting Diode) element, but may also be implemented by other light-emitting elements such as a semiconductor laser, organic EL (Electro-Luminescence), or inorganic EL. If the wireless communication device 20 is a lighting fixture, the light source 22 irradiates the room with white light to illuminate the room. If the wireless communication device 20 is a device other than a lighting fixture, the light source 22 is an LED indicator that emits red light, etc.

[0025] The memory unit 23 is a storage device that stores various information necessary for the operation of the wireless communication device 20, such as the device's unique identification information, device type information, setting information (described later), operating mode setting information (described later), and selection information (described later). The memory unit 23 is implemented, for example, by a semiconductor memory.

[0026] Next, the configuration of the information terminal 30 will be described. The information terminal 30 is an information terminal used by the user to configure settings related to the mesh network (initial setup and setting changes) and to control multiple wireless communication devices 20. The information terminal 30 is, for example, a mobile device such as a smartphone, tablet, or PDA (Personal Digital Assistant). Alternatively, the information terminal 30 may be a dedicated remote controller used in the communication system 10. Specifically, the information terminal 30 comprises an operation reception unit 31, a display unit 32, a wireless communication unit 33, an information processing unit 34, and a storage unit 35.

[0027] The operation reception unit 31 receives user input. Specifically, the operation reception unit 31 is implemented by a touch panel or the like.

[0028] The display unit 32 displays various images. The display unit 32 is implemented by a display panel such as a liquid crystal panel or an organic EL panel.

[0029] The wireless communication unit 33 is a wireless communication circuit that enables the information terminal 30 to communicate wirelessly (more specifically, via radio waves) with each of the multiple wireless communication devices 20. Specifically, the wireless communication unit 33 performs wireless communication in accordance with communication standards such as BLE.

[0030] The information processing unit 34 performs information processing in response to user operations received by the operation reception unit 31. The information processing unit 34 is implemented, for example, by a microcomputer, but may also be implemented by a processor or dedicated circuit. The functions of the information processing unit 34 are realized by the execution of computer programs (software) stored in the storage unit 35 by the hardware, such as the microcomputer or processor that constitutes the information processing unit 34.

[0031] The memory unit 35 is a storage device that stores information necessary for information processing, such as computer programs, executed by the information processing unit 34. The memory unit 35 is implemented, for example, by a semiconductor memory.

[0032] [Initial Operation] The information terminal 30 can build a mesh network by performing an initial setup operation. The initial setup operation will now be described. Figure 3 is a flowchart showing an overview of the initial setup operation. As shown in Figure 3, the initial setup operation includes a detection phase S10, an identification and registration phase S20, and a configuration phase S30 in that order. The specific processes performed in each phase will be described below with reference to the sequence diagrams. Figures 4A and 4B are sequence diagrams of the initial setup operation. Figure 5 is a diagram showing an example of the initial setup screen. The initial setup operation shown in Figures 4A and 4B is performed, for example, after multiple wireless communication devices 20 have been installed on the ceiling by the installer.

[0033] First, let's explain the process performed in the detection phase S10. The operation reception unit 31 of the information terminal 30 receives a start operation from the user to begin detecting (scanning) the wireless communication device 20 (S10a). The start operation is a tap operation on the detection icon 32c on the initial setup screen in Figure 5.

[0034] Each of the multiple wireless communication devices 20 periodically transmits a beacon signal (sometimes called an advertisement signal, etc.) before joining the mesh network (S10b). Upon acceptance of the start operation in step S10a, the wireless communication unit 33 of the information terminal 30 receives the beacon signal. The beacon signal emitted by each of the multiple wireless communication devices 20 contains the unique identification information of that wireless communication device 20. The unique identification information is, for example, a MAC (Media Access Control) address, but is not limited to a MAC address and can uniquely identify the wireless communication device 20.

[0035] The information processing unit 34 displays the icon of the wireless communication device 20 that is the source of the received beacon signal on the display unit 32 (S10c). As shown in Figure 5, the initial setup screen displays multiple icons 32a corresponding to multiple wireless communication devices 20 that are sources of beacon signals, arranged in a horizontal row.

[0036] Furthermore, the initial setup screen in Figure 5 also displays a map image 32m. The map image 32m is a top-down view of the area where multiple wireless communication devices 20 are installed, and in the example in Figure 5, the installation locations P1 to P6 of the wireless communication devices 20 are indicated by circles. In other words, the map image 32m is an image showing the installation locations of multiple wireless communication devices 20. The map image 32m is stored in the storage unit 35 in advance.

[0037] At step S10c, while the arrangement of multiple wireless communication devices 20 is known, the location of each wireless communication device 20 is unknown. In other words, at step S10c, the installation location of the wireless communication devices 20 is not associated with the unique identification information of the wireless communication devices 20.

[0038] The processes described above in steps S10a to S10c constitute the processes performed in the detection phase S10. Next, the processes performed in the identification and registration phase S20 will be explained.

[0039] The operation reception unit 31 receives a selection operation from the installer for one of several icons 32a (S20a). The selection operation is, for example, a tap operation on one of the icons 32a. Based on the selection operation received by the operation reception unit 31, the information processing unit 34 establishes a communication connection between the wireless communication unit 33 and the wireless communication device 20 (hereinafter also referred to as the target wireless communication device 20) corresponding to the selected icon 32a (S20b), and starts individual communication (one-to-one communication) with the target wireless communication device 20. The information processing unit 34 causes the wireless communication unit 33 to send a blinking command (S20c). The blinking command is sent, for example, after the selection operation, triggered by the reception of a tap operation on a blinking icon 32b.

[0040] The flashing command is control information (control command) for selectively flashing the target wireless communication device 20. When the target wireless communication device 20 receives the flashing command, it flashes the light source 22 (S20d). This allows the user to identify the target wireless communication device 20.

[0041] The user visually confirms the actual installation location of the target wireless communication device 20 equipped with a flashing light source 22 (S20e), and specifies the installation location of the target wireless communication device 20 equipped with a flashing light source 22 on the map image 32m (for example, one of installation locations P1 to P6). The operation reception unit 31 receives the user's operation to specify the installation location of the wireless communication device 20 in the map image 32m (S20f). Then, the information processing unit 34 associates the unique identification information indicated by the icon 32a selected in step S20a with the installation location (coordinates) specified in step S20f and stores it in the storage unit 35 (S20g). The information processing unit 34 also removes the display of the icon 32a for which the association has been completed (S20h). In other words, the number of icons 32a displayed in step S10c decreases by one. Then, the information processing unit 34 disconnects the communication connection with the target wireless communication device 20 (S20i).

[0042] The processing in steps S20a to S20i is repeated until all icons 32a (unique identification information) displayed in step S10c are associated with their installation locations. As a result, the storage unit 35 stores correspondence information indicating the relationship between the unique identification information of multiple wireless communication devices 20 and their installation locations. In other words, multiple wireless communication devices 20 are registered with the information terminal 30.

[0043] The processes described above in steps S20a to S20i constitute the processes performed in the identification and registration phase S20. Next, we will explain the processes performed in the configuration phase S30. The processes performed in the configuration phase S30 are also known as provisioning.

[0044] The information processing unit 34 establishes a communication connection between the designated wireless communication device 20 and the wireless communication unit 33 based on an operation or other operation specified by the wireless communication device 20 received by the operation reception unit 31 (S30a), and starts individual communication with the wireless communication device 20. The information processing unit 34 causes the wireless communication unit 33 to transmit setting information to the wireless communication device 20 (S30b). The wireless communication device 20 receives the setting information and stores it in the storage unit 23 provided in the wireless communication device 20 (S30c).

[0045] The configuration information is the information necessary for the wireless communication device 20 to join the mesh network. The configuration information includes the network ID of the mesh network to which the wireless communication device 20 belongs, and the address information (unicast address) of the wireless communication device 20 used for communication within the mesh network. The configuration information may also include, if necessary, a security passcode (authentication information) used for communication within the mesh network, channel information indicating the frequency channel used for wireless communication in the mesh network, and unique identification information of the information terminal 30 that performed the initial setup operation. The wireless communication device 20, with its configuration information stored in the storage unit 23, can join the mesh network.

[0046] When the wireless communication device 20 has finished storing the configuration information, it sends a configuration completion notification to the information terminal 30 (S30d). When the information processing unit 34 of the information terminal 30 receives the configuration completion notification from the wireless communication unit 33, it disconnects the communication connection with the wireless communication device 20 that it connected to in step S30a (S30e).

[0047] The processing in steps S30a to S30e is repeated until all wireless communication devices 20 have joined the mesh network. Once a wireless communication device 20 has joined the mesh network, it stops the periodic transmission of beacon signals that it was performing before joining, as needed.

[0048] The processes described above in steps S30a to S30e constitute the processes performed in the setting phase S30 (also referred to as the setting process).

[0049] Note that the processing in steps S20i and S30a can be omitted. In other words, the processing in steps S30b to S30e may be performed without disconnecting the communication connection in step S20i.

[0050] Furthermore, although the processing in steps S30b to 30d was achieved by direct communication between the information terminal 30 and the target wireless communication device, it may also be achieved by the information terminal 30 communicating with other wireless communication devices 20 and communicating with the target wireless communication device via a mesh network (other wireless communication devices 20).

[0051] As explained above, the information terminal 30 can allow multiple wireless communication devices 20 to join the mesh network by performing an initial setup operation. In other words, the information terminal 30 can build a mesh network.

[0052] [Example 1 of the operation mode setting phase] Incidentally, it is conceivable that the software stored in the memory unit 23 of the wireless communication device 20 be standardized (commonized) regardless of the device type of the wireless communication device 20, and that by setting an operating mode for the wireless communication device 20 (software), the wireless communication device 20 will perform operations according to the device type of the wireless communication device 20. In such a case, an operating mode setting phase is required. The processes performed in the operating mode setting phase will be described below. Figure 6 is a sequence diagram showing example 1 of the operating mode setting phase.

[0053] In the following description, the operation mode setting phase is described as a separate phase from both the identification and registration phase S20 and the setting phase S30, but it may also be part of the identification and registration phase S20 or the setting phase S30.

[0054] Furthermore, the following describes an example in which each process included in the operation mode setting phase is realized by direct communication between the information terminal 30 and the target wireless communication device 20. However, each process included in the operation mode setting phase can also be realized by the information terminal 30 communicating with other wireless communication devices 20 and communicating with the target wireless communication device 20 via a mesh network (through other wireless communication devices 20).

[0055] The information processing unit 34 of the information terminal 30 determines the choice of operating mode according to the device type information contained in the beacon signal received in step S10b (S40a). In other words, the information processing unit 34 determines the choice of operating mode according to the device type of the wireless communication device 20 that is the source of the beacon signal. The device type information indicates one of several types, such as lighting fixtures and sensors. The information processing unit 34 determines the choice based on the correspondence between predetermined device types and appropriate choices. For example, if the device type information indicates a lighting fixture, lighting mode, repeater mode, and projector mode are determined as choices, and if the device type information indicates a sensor, sensor mode and repeater mode are determined as choices.

[0056] The information processing unit 34 displays a selection screen including the selected operating mode on the display unit 32 (S40b). Figures 7A and 7B show examples of operating mode selection screens; Figure 7A shows the selection screen when the equipment type information indicates a lighting fixture, and Figure 7B shows the selection screen when the equipment type information indicates a sensor.

[0057] Here, we will provide some additional information about the operating modes. The lighting mode is an operating mode in which the wireless communication device 20 operates as a communication node in a mesh network (i.e., wireless communication) and as a lighting fixture. The projector mode is an operating mode in which the wireless communication device 20 operates as a communication node in a mesh network and as a projector. The sensor mode is an operating mode in which the wireless communication device 20 operates as a communication node in a mesh network and as a sensor. In other words, these operating modes correspond to operating modes (hereinafter also referred to as the first operating mode) that perform wireless communication and operations corresponding to the type of wireless communication device 20 (operations corresponding to the main functions specific to the wireless communication device 20).

[0058] On the other hand, the repeater mode is an operating mode in which the device operates only as a communication node in a mesh network (wireless communication) and operates according to the type of wireless communication device 20 (hereinafter also referred to as the second operating mode).

[0059] Thus, the options displayed on the operation mode selection screen include a first operation mode that performs both wireless communication and operations according to the type of wireless communication device 20, and a second operation mode that performs only wireless communication and operations according to the type of wireless communication device 20. Furthermore, the first operation mode includes an operation mode for lighting fixtures and an operation mode for devices other than lighting fixtures (for example, projectors or sensors).

[0060] The installer performs an operation to select the operating mode, and the operation reception unit 31 accepts the operation mode selection operation (S40c).

[0061] Furthermore, the information processing unit 34 transmits operation mode setting information to the wireless communication device 20 using the wireless communication unit 33 (S40d) in order to set the operation mode selected by the selection operation to the wireless communication device 20. The wireless communication device 20 receives the operation mode setting information and stores it in the storage unit 23 provided in the wireless communication device 20 (S40e). The operation mode is set in the wireless communication device 20 in which the operation mode setting information is stored in the storage unit 23.

[0062] When the wireless communication device 20 has finished storing the operating mode setting information, it sends a setting completion notification to the information terminal 30 (S40f).

[0063] When the information processing unit 34 of the information terminal 30 receives a notification of completion of settings from the wireless communication unit 33, it associates the unique identification information contained in the beacon signal received in step S10b with the operating mode selected in step S40c and stores it in the storage unit 35 as operating mode management information (S40g).

[0064] The processing in steps S40a to S40g is performed for all wireless communication devices 20 that require setting of the operating mode.

[0065] In this way, the information terminal 30 can display a selection screen for operating modes on the display unit 32, with different options depending on the device type information contained in the beacon signal. As a result, the selection screen includes only operating modes that are appropriate for setting the wireless communication device 20. Therefore, the user can select an appropriate operating mode for the wireless communication device 20 according to its device type.

[0066] In Example 1 of the operation mode setting phase, the information processing unit 34 determined the selection based on the device type information included in the beacon signal (in other words, information that indirectly indicates the options) and the correspondence between the device type and the appropriate options stored in the storage unit 35 beforehand. However, the beacon signal also includes selection information that directly indicates the options for the operation mode, in addition to the device type information, and the information processing unit 34 may display a selection screen that includes the options indicated by the selection information (by omitting the process of determining the options from the device type information).

[0067] In this case as well, since the option information indicates an option suitable for the wireless communication device 20 that holds the option information, the user can set an appropriate operating mode for the wireless communication device 20.

[0068] [Example 2 of the operation mode setting phase] Furthermore, the selection information may be provided to the information terminal 30 from the wireless communication device 20 upon request from the information terminal 30. Figure 8 is a sequence diagram showing example 2 of the operation mode setting phase.

[0069] In the following description, the operation mode setting phase is described as a separate phase from both the identification and registration phase S20 and the setting phase S30, but it may also be part of the identification and registration phase S20 or the setting phase S30.

[0070] Furthermore, the following describes an example in which each process included in the operation mode setting phase is realized by direct communication between the information terminal 30 and the target wireless communication device 20. However, each process included in the operation mode setting phase can also be realized by the information terminal 30 communicating with other wireless communication devices 20 and communicating with the target wireless communication device 20 via a mesh network (through other wireless communication devices 20).

[0071] The information processing unit 34 of the information terminal 30 transmits a request for information provision of choice information to the wireless communication device 20 using the wireless communication unit 33 (S40h). The wireless communication device 20 receives the request for information provision and transmits the choice information to the information terminal 30 in accordance with the received request for information provision (S40i).

[0072] When the information processing unit 34 of the information terminal 30 receives selection information via the wireless communication unit 33, it displays a selection screen including the operating mode options indicated by the selection information on the display unit 32 (S40b). The subsequent processing is the same as in Example 1 of the operating mode setting phase.

[0073] In this way, the information terminal 30 can display a screen on the display unit 32 for selecting an operating mode, including the appropriate option, by querying the wireless communication device 20 for a suitable option. The user can then set the appropriate operating mode for the wireless communication device 20.

[0074] [Area control] The information terminal 30 can group multiple wireless communication devices 20 and issue control instructions to each group. The information terminal 30 can reduce the number of communications by sending control information to which identification information indicating the group is specified as the destination. In the following, an area is given as an example of a group of multiple wireless communication devices 20, the identification information indicating the group is referred to as area identification information, and the control of the wireless communication devices 20 using the area identification information is referred to as area control.

[0075] In this case, if wireless communication devices 20 with different operating modes are mixed in the same area (group), some wireless communication devices 20 will be unable to operate according to the control commanded by the control information.

[0076] Therefore, the information processing unit 34 accepts area settings for multiple wireless communication devices 20, provided that the set operating modes are the same. If, for example, an operation is performed by the user to assign wireless communication devices 20 with different operating modes to the same area, the information processing unit 34 notifies the user that the area settings need to be redone by displaying a message on the display unit 32, and refuses to accept the area settings. The information processing unit 34 may also display a setting screen (a setting screen with a well-designed GUI) on the display unit 32 that prevents wireless communication devices 20 with different operating modes from being assigned to the same area. Note that which operating mode is set for which wireless communication device 20 can be identified by referring to the operating mode management information stored in the storage unit 35.

[0077] As long as only wireless communication devices 20 with the same operating mode are located in the same area, the information terminal 30 can achieve appropriate area control.

[0078] Note that wireless communication devices 20 set to sensor mode, repeater mode, etc., are excluded from control. Therefore, the information processing unit 34 excludes wireless communication devices 20 set to sensor mode or repeater mode from area settings (in other words, group settings or grouping).

[0079] The information processing unit 34, for example, if an operation is performed to assign a wireless communication device 20 with a specific operating mode set by a different user to an area, will notify the user by displaying a message on the display unit 32 that the area setting needs to be redone, and will not accept the area setting. Alternatively, the information processing unit 34 may exclude wireless communication devices 20 with a specific operating mode set from area setting by not displaying them as selection candidates on the area setting screen. The specific operating mode set for each wireless communication device 20 can be identified by referring to the operating mode management information stored in the storage unit 35.

[0080] Thus, if a wireless communication device 20 with a specific operating mode set is excluded from area control, the information terminal 30 can achieve appropriate area control.

[0081] Note that the screen for setting the control details of area control differs depending on the operating mode of the wireless communication device 20 belonging to the area. Figure 9A shows an example of the screen for setting the control details of area control for a wireless communication device 20 set to lighting mode. Figure 9B shows an example of the screen for setting the control details of area control for a wireless communication device 20 set to projector mode.

[0082] In this way, the information terminal 30 (information processing unit 34) can achieve appropriate screen display by changing the display mode of the screen related to the wireless communication device 20 displayed on the display unit 32 according to the operating mode set in the wireless communication device 20.

[0083] [Icon display method] As described above, in detection phase S10, multiple icons 32a are displayed on the display unit 32. Here, the word "Dimming" at the top of the icon 32a indicates the type of wireless communication device 20, which is displayed based on the device type information included in the beacon signal. For example, "Dimming" means that the wireless communication device 20 is a dimmable lighting fixture. The words such as "L001" at the bottom of the icon 32a are identification numbers used to distinguish the icons 32a.

[0084] Here, after an operating mode has been set for the wireless communication device 20, characters indicating the operating mode may be added to the icon 32a. Figure 10 shows an example of how to add characters indicating the operating mode. As shown in Figure 10, the information processing unit 34 of the information terminal 30 adds characters indicating the operating mode to the top of the icon 32a, for example, instead of the characters indicating the device type at the top of the icon 32a.

[0085] In this way, the information terminal 30 (information processing unit 34) can achieve an appropriate screen display by changing the display mode of the icons 32a related to the wireless communication device 20 displayed on the display unit 32 according to the operating mode set in the wireless communication device 20.

[0086] Note that the display configuration shown in Figure 10 is just one example, and the display configuration of the icon 32a according to the operating mode can be changed by combining one or more elements such as the color, pattern, size, and shape of the icon 32a.

[0087] [Differences in the behavior of wireless communication devices when receiving control information] As described above, although common software is installed on multiple wireless communication devices 20, each of the multiple wireless communication devices 20 operates according to the operating mode set for that device once the operating mode is configured. For example, even if multiple wireless communication devices 20 receive the same control information (information specifying the same control value), they will exhibit different behaviors if their operating modes are different. Figure 11 shows an example of the relationship between the content of the control information and the operating mode.

[0088] In the example shown in Figure 11, when the wireless communication device 20 is set to the normal lighting mode, upon receiving control information instructing it to emit light at an 80% dimming rate, it emits light at an 80% dimming rate as instructed. On the other hand, when the wireless communication device 20 is set to the power-saving lighting mode, upon receiving control information instructing it to emit light at an 80% dimming rate, it emits light at a lower dimming rate of 70% than instructed.

[0089] Furthermore, the wireless communication device 20 may significantly alter its interpretation of the control information. For example, if the wireless communication device 20 is set to projector mode and receives control information instructing it to emit light at a dimming rate of 80%, it may interpret the dimming rate of 80% as identification information for the content to be played and play the content corresponding to the dimming rate.

[0090] Thus, the control performed by the wireless communication device 20 when it receives control information from the information terminal 30 (wireless communication unit 33) may differ depending on the operating mode set in the wireless communication device 20.

[0091] [Setting multiple operating modes for a single wireless communication device] In the above embodiment, one operating mode was set for one wireless communication device 20, but multiple operating modes can also be set for one wireless communication device 20. For example, multiple operating modes set for one wireless communication device 20 may include an operating mode for information terminal A and an operating mode for information terminal B, which is a different control terminal from information terminal A. Figure 12 shows an example of setting multiple operating modes.

[0092] As shown in Figure 12, one wireless communication device 20 is configured, for example, with a lighting mode (normal) set as the operating mode for information terminal A, and a lighting mode (power saving) set as the operating mode for information terminal B.

[0093] When the wireless communication device 20, with its operating mode set in this manner, receives control information A transmitted by the information terminal A, which instructs it to emit light at a dimming rate of 80%, it operates in the lighting mode (normal). In other words, the wireless communication device 20 emits light at a dimming rate of 80% as instructed.

[0094] On the other hand, when the wireless communication device 20 receives control information B transmitted by the information terminal B, which instructs it to emit light at a dimming rate of 80%, it operates in lighting mode (power saving). In other words, the wireless communication device 20 emits light at a dimming rate of 70%, which is lower than the instructed dimming rate.

[0095] Thus, the wireless communication device 20, which has multiple operating modes configured, can operate in a different operating mode for each information terminal that transmits the control information.

[0096] The method for setting the operating mode is as described in Example 1 or Example 2 of the operating mode setting phase. In this case, the operating mode for information terminal A may be set using information terminal A, and the operating mode for information terminal B may be set using information terminal B, or both the operating mode for information terminal A and the operating mode for information terminal B may be set using a single information terminal 30 (information terminal A, information terminal B, or other information terminal 30).

[0097] [Differentiation] In the above embodiment, the wireless communication device 20, which has an operating mode set, may emit a beacon signal that includes operating mode information indicating the currently set operating mode of the wireless communication device 20. As a result, the information terminal 30 that receives the beacon signal can recognize the currently set operating mode of the wireless communication device 20.

[0098] In the above embodiment, each of the multiple wireless communication devices 20 constituting the mesh network was described as a lighting-related device such as a lighting fixture, a remote controller for lighting, a PWM dimmer, a scheduler, a projector, or an AC relay, or as a sensor. However, the wireless communication device 20 may be other devices such as an air conditioner, a ventilation system, a camera, or a speaker.

[0099] [Effects, etc.] The following describes examples of inventions that can be obtained from the disclosures in this specification, and explains the effects and other benefits that can be obtained from such inventions.

[0100] Invention 1 is an information terminal 30 comprising a wireless communication unit 33 that receives a beacon signal emitted by a wireless communication device 20, a display unit 32, an information processing unit 34 that displays an operating mode selection screen on the display unit 32, with different options depending on the first information contained in the received beacon signal, and an operation reception unit 31 that receives an operation mode selection operation from the user, wherein the information processing unit 34 transmits operation mode setting information to the wireless communication device 20 using the wireless communication unit 33 in order to set the operating mode selected by the selection operation to the wireless communication device 20. The installer of the above embodiment is an example of a user.

[0101] Such an information terminal 30 can assist in setting an appropriate operating mode for the wireless communication device 20 by displaying a selection screen that includes options considered appropriate according to the first information.

[0102] Invention 2 is an information terminal 30 of Invention 1, wherein the wireless communication device 20 is a lighting fixture, a sensor, or a scheduler for scheduling control of the lighting fixture.

[0103] Such an information terminal 30 can assist in setting appropriate operating modes for lighting fixtures, sensors, or schedulers.

[0104] Invention 3 is an information terminal 30 of Invention 1 or 2, wherein the options include a first operating mode that performs wireless communication and operations according to the type of wireless communication device, and a second operating mode that performs wireless communication and only wireless communication among the operations according to the type of wireless communication device.

[0105] Such an information terminal 30 can assist in setting the first operating mode and the second operating mode.

[0106] Invention 4 is an information terminal 30 of Invention 3, wherein the first operating mode includes an operating mode for lighting fixtures and an operating mode for equipment other than lighting fixtures.

[0107] Such an information terminal 30 can assist in setting operating modes for lighting fixtures and operating modes for equipment other than lighting fixtures.

[0108] Invention 5 is an information terminal 30 of any of Inventions 1 to 4, wherein the information processing unit 34 accepts group settings of multiple wireless communication devices 20 on the condition that the set operating modes are the same, and transmits control information for controlling the multiple wireless communication devices 20 as a group to the group using the wireless communication unit 33 based on the accepted group settings.

[0109] Such an information terminal 30 can achieve appropriate area control by assigning only wireless communication devices 20 with the same operating mode set to the same area.

[0110] Invention 6 is an information terminal 30 of Invention 5, wherein the information processing unit 34 excludes wireless communication devices 20 with a specific operating mode set from the group setting.

[0111] Such an information terminal 30 can achieve appropriate area control by excluding wireless communication devices 20 with specific operating modes set from the area control target.

[0112] Invention 7 is an information terminal 30 of any of Inventions 1 to 6, wherein the control performed by the wireless communication device 20 when it receives control information from the wireless communication unit 33 differs depending on the operating mode set in the wireless communication device 20.

[0113] Such an information terminal 30 can cause the wireless communication device 20 to perform different operations depending on the operating mode.

[0114] Invention 8 is an information terminal 30 of any of Inventions 1 to 7, wherein the information processing unit 34 changes the display mode of the icons 32a or screen related to the wireless communication device 20 displayed on the display unit 32 according to the operating mode set on the wireless communication device 20.

[0115] Such an information terminal 30 can change the display mode of the icons 32a or screen related to the wireless communication device 20 according to the operating mode set in the wireless communication device 20.

[0116] Invention 9 is an information terminal 30 of any of Inventions 1 to 8, wherein the beacon signal includes operating mode information indicating the currently set operating mode of the wireless communication device 20.

[0117] Such an information terminal 30 can recognize the currently set operating mode of the wireless communication device 20 by receiving a beacon signal.

[0118] Invention 10 is an information terminal 30 of any of Inventions 1 to 9, wherein the first information contained in the beacon signal is device type information of the wireless communication device 20, the information processing unit 34 determines a selection according to the device type information, and displays a selection screen of the operating mode including the determined selection on the display unit 32.

[0119] Such an information terminal 30 can assist in setting an appropriate operating mode for the wireless communication device 20 by displaying a selection screen that includes options considered appropriate according to the type of device.

[0120] Invention 11 is an information terminal 30 of any of Inventions 1 to 9, wherein the first information contained in the beacon signal is choice information that directly indicates a choice, and the information processing unit 34 displays a selection screen of the operating mode including the choice indicated by the choice information on the display unit 32.

[0121] Such an information terminal 30 can assist in setting an appropriate operating mode for the wireless communication device 20 by displaying a selection screen that includes options considered appropriate for the wireless communication device 20.

[0122] Invention 12 is an information terminal 30 of any of Inventions 1 to 11, in which a wireless communication device 20 can be configured with multiple operating modes.

[0123] Such an information terminal 30 can set multiple operating modes for the wireless communication device 20.

[0124] Invention 13 is an information terminal 30 of Invention 12, wherein the multiple operating modes include an operating mode for the information terminal 30 and an operating mode for a control terminal different from the information terminal 30.

[0125] Such an information terminal 30 can operate wireless communication devices 20, which have multiple operating modes set, in different operating modes for each information terminal that transmits the control information.

[0126] Invention 14 is a communication system 10 comprising an information terminal 30 of any of Inventions 1 to 13 and a wireless communication device 20.

[0127] Such a communication system 10 can assist in setting an appropriate operating mode for the wireless communication device 20 by displaying a selection screen that includes options considered appropriate according to the first information.

[0128] Invention 15 is a setting method performed by an information terminal 30 equipped with a display unit 32, the setting method comprising: step S10b receiving a beacon signal emitted by a wireless communication device 20; step S40b displaying an operating mode selection screen on the display unit 32, the selection of which differs depending on the first information contained in the received beacon signal; step S40c receiving an operation to select an operating mode from the user; and step S40d transmitting operating mode setting information to the wireless communication device 20 for setting the operating mode selected by the selection operation to the wireless communication device 20.

[0129] This setting method can assist in setting an appropriate operating mode for the wireless communication device 20 by displaying a selection screen that includes options considered appropriate based on the first information.

[0130] Invention 16 is a program that causes the information terminal 30 to execute the setting method of Invention 15.

[0131] According to such a program, the information terminal 30 can assist in setting an appropriate operating mode for the wireless communication device 20 by displaying a selection screen containing options deemed appropriate according to the first information.

[0132] (Other embodiments) Although embodiments have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above.

[0133] For example, in the above embodiment, a process performed by a specific processing unit may be performed by another processing unit. Furthermore, the order of multiple processes may be changed, or multiple processes may be executed in parallel.

[0134] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, each component may be realized by executing a software program suitable for each component. Each component may also be realized by a program execution unit such as a CPU or processor reading and executing a software program recorded on a recording medium such as a hard disk or semiconductor memory.

[0135] Furthermore, each component may be implemented by hardware. For example, a component such as a control unit may be a circuit (or integrated circuit). These circuits may form a single circuit as a whole, or they may be separate circuits. Also, each of these circuits may be a general-purpose circuit or a dedicated circuit.

[0136] Furthermore, general or specific embodiments of the present invention may be implemented as a system, apparatus, method, integrated circuit, computer program, or recording medium such as a computer-readable CD-ROM. Alternatively, they may be implemented as any combination of a system, apparatus, method, integrated circuit, computer program, and recording medium.

[0137] For example, the present invention may be implemented as a communication system or information terminal as described in the above embodiment, or as a setting method executed by an information terminal. The present invention may be implemented as a program for causing an information terminal (computer) to execute such a setting method, or as a computer-readable non-temporary recording medium on which such a program is recorded. In other words, the program is a computer program product. Such a program includes an application program for causing a computer, such as a general-purpose information terminal, to function as an information terminal as described in the above embodiment.

[0138] Furthermore, the present invention also includes forms obtained by applying various modifications to each embodiment that a person skilled in the art could conceive, or forms realized by arbitrarily combining the components and functions of each embodiment without departing from the spirit of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0139] 10 Communication Systems 20 Wireless communication equipment 21 Wireless Communication Section 22 Light source 23, 35 Storage section 30 Information terminals 31 Operation reception section 32 Display section 32a Icon 32b Blinking icon 32c detection icon 32m map image 33 Wireless Communication Section 34 Information Processing Section

Claims

1. A wireless communication unit that receives beacon signals emitted by wireless communication equipment, Display unit and An information processing unit that displays an operating mode selection screen on the display unit, with different options depending on the first information contained in the received beacon signal, The system includes an operation reception unit that receives the user's request to select the aforementioned operating mode, The information processing unit transmits, using the wireless communication unit, operation mode setting information to set the operation mode selected by the selection operation to the wireless communication device. Information terminal.

2. The wireless communication device is a lighting fixture, a sensor, or a scheduler that controls the lighting fixture on a schedule. The information terminal according to claim 1.

3. The aforementioned options include a first operating mode that performs wireless communication and operations according to the type of wireless communication device, and a second operating mode that performs only wireless communication among wireless communication and operations according to the type of wireless communication device. The information terminal according to claim 1.

4. The first operating mode includes an operating mode for lighting fixtures and an operating mode for equipment other than lighting fixtures. The information terminal according to claim 3.

5. The aforementioned information processing unit, The group setting of multiple wireless communication devices is accepted, provided that the set operating modes are the same. Based on the received group settings, control information for controlling multiple wireless communication devices as a group is transmitted to the group using the wireless communication unit. The information terminal according to claim 1.

6. The information processing unit excludes wireless communication devices with a specific operating mode set from the group setting. The information terminal according to claim 5.

7. The control performed by the wireless communication device when it receives control information from the wireless communication unit differs depending on the operating mode set in the wireless communication device. The information terminal according to claim 1.

8. The information processing unit changes the display mode of the icons or screens related to the wireless communication device displayed on the display unit according to the operating mode set for the wireless communication device. The information terminal according to claim 1.

9. The beacon signal includes operating mode information indicating the operating mode currently set in the wireless communication device. The information terminal according to claim 1.

10. The first information included in the beacon signal is the device type information of the wireless communication device, The information processing unit determines the options according to the device type information and displays the operation mode selection screen, which includes the determined options, on the display unit. The information terminal according to claim 1.

11. The first information included in the beacon signal is choice information that directly indicates the choice, The information processing unit displays the operation mode selection screen, which includes the options indicated by the option information, on the display unit. The information terminal according to claim 1.

12. Multiple operating modes can be set for the wireless communication device. The information terminal according to claim 1.

13. The multiple operating modes include an operating mode for the information terminal and an operating mode for a control terminal different from the information terminal. The information terminal according to claim 12.

14. An information terminal according to any one of claims 1 to 13, The wireless communication equipment Communication system.

15. A setting method performed by an information terminal equipped with a display unit, The steps include receiving a beacon signal emitted by a wireless communication device, The steps include displaying an operating mode selection screen on the display unit, where the options differ depending on the first information contained in the received beacon signal, The steps include: accepting the user's request to select the aforementioned operating mode; The step includes transmitting to the wireless communication device operating mode setting information for setting the operating mode selected by the selection operation to the wireless communication device. How to set it up.

16. A program for causing the information terminal to execute the setting method described in claim 15.

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