Wireless communication systems, communication devices, wireless communication methods, and programs

Abstract

It helps to suppress the deterioration of communication reliability. [Solution] The wireless communication system comprises a first communication terminal and a second communication terminal 200. The second communication terminal 200 has a wireless communication unit 12 that transmits wireless signals to the first communication terminal. The wireless communication unit 12 is capable of transmitting a first wireless signal for communication connection with the first communication terminal and a second wireless signal different from the first wireless signal as the wireless signals. The wireless communication unit 12 has setting information including the number of consecutive transmissions of the first wireless signal. The wireless communication unit 12 intermittently transmits the first wireless signal until the number of transmissions of the first wireless signal reaches the number of consecutive transmissions, and transmits the second wireless signal when the number of transmissions of the first wireless signal reaches the number of consecutive transmissions.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a wireless communication system, a communication device, a wireless communication method, and a program. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a wireless communication system, a communication device, a wireless communication method, and a program including a plurality of communication terminals.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a method for determining a backoff time. In the method for determining the backoff time described in Patent Document 1, the backoff time is determined so that the transmission timing of future control signals by a wireless terminal to be backed off does not overlap with a period in which the number of occurrences per unit time exceeds a reference value in a predicted signal distribution indicating the distribution of the number of occurrences of future control signals.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the method for determining the backoff time described in Patent Document 1, the reliability of communication may be reduced due to the occurrence of burst traffic.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a wireless communication system, a communication device, a wireless communication method, and a program capable of suppressing a reduction in communication reliability.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] A wireless communication system according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises a first communication terminal and a second communication terminal different from the first communication terminal. The second communication terminal has a wireless communication unit that transmits wireless signals to the first communication terminal. The wireless communication unit is capable of transmitting, as wireless signals, a first wireless signal for communication connection with the first communication terminal and a second wireless signal different from the first wireless signal. The wireless communication unit has setting information including the number of consecutive transmissions of the first wireless signal. The wireless communication unit intermittently transmits the first wireless signal until the number of transmissions of the first wireless signal reaches the number of consecutive transmissions, and transmits the second wireless signal when the number of transmissions of the first wireless signal reaches the number of consecutive transmissions.

[0007] A communication device according to one aspect of this disclosure is used as the second communication terminal in the wireless communication system.

[0008] A wireless communication method according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a wireless communication step of transmitting a first wireless signal for communication connection and a second wireless signal different from the first wireless signal. In the wireless communication step, the first wireless signal is transmitted intermittently until the number of transmissions of the first wireless signal reaches the number of consecutive transmissions of the first wireless signal, and the second wireless signal is transmitted when the number of transmissions of the first wireless signal reaches the number of consecutive transmissions.

[0009] A program according to one aspect of this disclosure is a program for causing one or more processors to execute the wireless communication method. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a wireless communication system, communication device, wireless communication method, and program make it possible to suppress a decline in the reliability of communications. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a system configuration diagram of a wireless communication system according to an embodiment of this system. [Figure 2]Figure 2 is a block diagram of the lighting device in the wireless communication system described above. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a block diagram of the sensor device in the wireless communication system described above. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a block diagram of the communication equipment in the wireless communication system described above. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a block diagram of the tablet in the wireless communication system described above. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a block diagram of the handheld remote control in the same wireless communication system. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is an explanatory diagram of the mesh network used in the wireless communication system described above. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a diagram showing the layout of areas and zones in the wireless communication system described above. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing the signal transmission process by the wireless communication system described above. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a flowchart showing the configuration process by the wireless communication system described above. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is another flowchart showing the configuration process using the same wireless communication system. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a timing chart showing a first example of signal transmission using the wireless communication system described above. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a timing chart showing a second example of signal transmission using the same wireless communication system. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a timing chart showing a third example of signal transmission using the same wireless communication system. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a timing chart showing a fourth example of signal transmission using the same wireless communication system. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0012] Hereinafter, a wireless communication system, a communication device, a wireless communication method, and a program according to an embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. However, the configurations described in the following embodiments are merely examples of the present disclosure. The present disclosure is not limited to the following embodiments, and various modifications can be made according to the design and the like as long as the effects of the present disclosure can be achieved.

[0013] (Embodiment) (1) Overview First, an overview of the wireless communication system S1 and the communication device (lighting device A1) according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2.

[0014] The wireless communication system S1 according to the embodiment is installed in, for example, commercial facilities such as office buildings and shopping centers, factories, warehouses, public facilities such as libraries, and the like. Note that the above facilities are merely examples, and the place where the wireless communication system S1 according to the embodiment is installed is not limited to the above facilities.

[0015] As shown in FIG. 1, the wireless communication system S1 according to the embodiment includes a first communication terminal 100 and a second communication terminal 200 different from the first communication terminal 100. As shown in FIG. 2, the second communication terminal 200 has a wireless communication unit 12 that transmits a wireless signal to the first communication terminal 100. The wireless communication unit 12 can transmit, as the wireless signal, a first wireless signal Sig1 (see FIGS. 12 to 15) for communication connection with the first communication terminal 100 and a second wireless signal Sig2 (see FIGS. 12 to 15) different from the first wireless signal Sig1. The wireless communication unit 12 has setting information including the number of consecutive transmissions of the first wireless signal Sig1. The wireless communication unit 12 intermittently transmits the first wireless signal Sig1 until the number of transmissions of the first wireless signal Sig1 reaches the number of consecutive transmissions, and transmits the second wireless signal Sig2 when the number of transmissions of the first wireless signal Sig1 reaches the number of consecutive transmissions.

[0016] In the wireless communication system S1 according to this embodiment, the wireless communication unit 12 intermittently transmits the first wireless signal Sig1 until the number of transmissions of the first wireless signal Sig1 reaches the number of continuous transmissions, and then transmits the second wireless signal Sig2. As a result, the first wireless signal Sig1 and the second wireless signal Sig2 are not transmitted simultaneously or aperiodically, making it less likely for burst traffic to occur, and thus suppressing a decrease in communication reliability.

[0017] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the lighting device A1 (communication device) according to this embodiment is used as a second communication terminal 200 in the wireless communication system S1. According to the lighting device A1 according to this embodiment, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the reliability of communication.

[0018] (2)Details Next, each component of the wireless communication system S1 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 6.

[0019] (2.1) System Configuration As shown in Figure 1, the wireless communication system S1 according to this embodiment includes, for example, a plurality of lighting devices A1, a sensor device B1, a communication device D1, a tablet C1, and a handheld remote control C2. In this embodiment, as an example, the wireless communication system S1 is used in a lighting control system (hereinafter also referred to as "lighting control system S1") that controls a plurality of lighting devices A1.

[0020] Multiple lighting devices A1, sensor devices B1, and communication devices D1 are supplied with AC power from an external power source P1 via a two-wire power supply circuit P11. In the example shown in Figure 1, a switch device J1 is inserted into the power supply circuit P11. The switch device J1 is equipped with an operating handle J11 and is configured to turn the connection between the external power source P1 and the power supply circuit P11 on or off each time the operating handle J11 is operated. In other words, when the switch device J1 is turned on, AC power is supplied from the external power source P1 via the power supply circuit P11, enabling the wireless communication system S1 to operate. On the other hand, when the switch device J1 is turned off, AC power is not supplied from the external power source P1 via the power supply circuit P11, so the wireless communication system S1 becomes inoperable.

[0021] In this embodiment, tablet C1 functions as the first communication terminal 100. In this embodiment, each of the multiple lighting devices A1 functions as a second communication terminal 200. That is, the wireless communication system S1 according to this embodiment comprises the first communication terminal 100 and a second communication terminal 200 that is different from the first communication terminal 100. The multiple lighting devices A1 (communication devices) are used as second communication terminals 200 in the wireless communication system S1.

[0022] (2.1.1) Lighting devices Each of the multiple lighting devices A1, as shown in Figure 2, has a light source unit 10, a power supply unit 11, a wireless communication unit 12, a storage unit 13, and a control unit 14. Each of the multiple lighting devices A1 functions as a second communication terminal 200 in the wireless communication system S1, as described above.

[0023] The light source unit 10 has, for example, an LED module configured by mounting multiple LEDs on a substrate. Note that the multiple light source units 10 in multiple lighting devices A1 may be of different types. For example, the multiple light source units 10 include a light source unit 10 that emits monochromatic illumination light, a light source unit 10 with a variable color temperature of illumination light, a light source unit 10 with a variable light color of illumination light, and a light source unit 10 with a switchable illumination direction. The light source unit 10 with a variable color temperature of illumination light has LED modules that emit illumination light of different color temperatures (e.g., incandescent and daylight). The light source unit 10 with a variable light color of illumination light has LED modules that emit illumination light of different colors, such as red, green, and blue light. Furthermore, the light source unit 10 with a switchable illumination direction has, for example, an LED module that emits illumination light towards the floor and an LED module that emits illumination light towards the ceiling or wall.

[0024] The power supply unit 11 includes, for example, a power conversion circuit and a constant current circuit. The power conversion circuit converts AC power supplied from an external power supply P1 via a power supply line P11 into DC power. The constant current circuit operates to match the DC current supplied to the light source unit 10 to a target value. The power supply unit 11 may have multiple constant current circuits depending on the type of light source unit 10. That is, a power supply unit 11 paired with a light source unit 10 whose illumination light color temperature is variable has multiple constant current circuits that supply DC current individually to multiple LED modules with different color temperatures. Also, a power supply unit 11 paired with a light source unit 10 whose illumination light color is variable has multiple constant current circuits that supply DC current individually to LED modules with multiple light colors. Furthermore, a power supply unit 11 paired with a light source unit 10 whose irradiation direction is switchable has, for example, a constant current circuit that supplies DC current to an LED module that radiates illumination light toward the floor, and a constant current circuit that supplies DC current to an LED module that radiates illumination light toward the ceiling or wall.

[0025] The wireless communication unit 12 includes a wireless communication circuit and an antenna. The wireless communication circuit is an integrated circuit configured to perform wireless communication compliant with wireless communication standards, such as BLE (Bluetooth® low energy), and mesh communication using radio waves as a medium. The wireless communication circuit may also be configured to perform wireless communication compliant with wireless communication standards other than BLE, such as Wi-Fi®, ZigBee®, or 920MHz band low-power radio stations (for telecontrol). The wireless communication circuit is capable of sending and receiving wireless signals through the antenna. The wireless communication unit 12 transmits wireless signals to the tablet C1, which is the first communication terminal 100. More specifically, the wireless communication unit 12 is capable of transmitting a first wireless signal Sig1 (see Figures 12 to 15) for communication connection with the first communication terminal 100, and a second wireless signal Sig2 (see Figures 12 to 15) which is different from the first wireless signal Sig1. The first radio signal Sig1 is, for example, an advertisement signal for establishing communication between the first communication terminal 100 and the second communication terminal 200. The second radio signal Sig2 is, for example, a beacon signal for positioning.

[0026] Furthermore, the wireless communication unit 12 has setting information. The setting information includes the number of consecutive transmissions of the first wireless signal Sig1. Here, the number of consecutive transmissions of the first wireless signal Sig1 is the number of times the first wireless signal Sig1 is transmitted consecutively during the first transmission period PE1 in which the first wireless signal Sig1 is transmitted, as shown in Figure 12. In the example in Figure 12, the number of consecutive transmissions of the first wireless signal Sig1 is 10. The setting information is set by the tablet C1, which is the first communication terminal 100, as described later.

[0027] The wireless communication unit 12 then intermittently transmits the first wireless signal Sig1 until the number of transmissions of the first wireless signal Sig1 reaches the number of continuous transmissions, and then transmits the second wireless signal Sig2.

[0028] Furthermore, the configuration information held by the wireless communication unit 12 also includes a second consecutive transmission count. Unlike the first consecutive transmission count, which is the number of consecutive transmissions described above, the second consecutive transmission count is the number of consecutive transmissions of the second radio signal Sig2. Here, the second consecutive transmission count of the second radio signal Sig2 is the number of times the second radio signal Sig2 is transmitted consecutively during the second transmission period PE2 in which the second radio signal Sig2 is transmitted, as shown in Figure 13. In the example in Figure 13, the second consecutive transmission count of the second radio signal Sig2 is 10.

[0029] The wireless communication unit 12 then intermittently transmits the second wireless signal Sig2 until the number of transmissions of the second wireless signal Sig2 reaches the second consecutive transmission count, and then transmits the first wireless signal Sig1 once the number of transmissions of the second wireless signal Sig2 reaches the second consecutive transmission count.

[0030] The storage unit 13 has, for example, an electrically rewritable non-volatile semiconductor memory. The storage unit 13 stores the first consecutive transmission count and the second consecutive transmission count described above. The first consecutive transmission count and the second consecutive transmission count are set by the first communication terminal 100 (tablet C1), which will be described later, and are transmitted from the first communication terminal 100 to the second communication terminal 200 via wireless communication between the first communication terminal 100 and the second communication terminal 200. The control unit 14 of the second communication terminal 200 then stores the first consecutive transmission count and the second consecutive transmission count received from the first communication terminal 100 in the storage unit 13. In this embodiment, as an example, the storage unit 13 stores the first consecutive transmission count and the second consecutive transmission count as the ratio of the first consecutive transmission count to the second consecutive transmission count.

[0031] Furthermore, the memory unit 13 stores multiple scene information. Each of the multiple scene information includes lighting-related information and mode specification information. The lighting-related information is information for specifying at least one of the following: illumination intensity, light color, and irradiation direction. The mode specification information is information for specifying one control mode from among multiple control modes. Here, the power supply unit 11 adjusts the amount of light output by adjusting the DC current supplied to the light source unit 10. The illumination intensity is expressed by the dimming level of the light source unit 10. The dimming level is defined as the ratio of the light amount when the rated current is flowed through the light source unit 10 to 100%. For example, a dimming level of 50% indicates that half the rated light amount is output from the light source unit 10. The light color is defined by the color temperature when the color temperature of the illumination light from the light source unit 10 is variable. However, the lighting-related information that specifies the light color is indicated by the ratio of the light amounts for each of several types of LED modules with different color temperatures. Similarly, if the light color of the light source unit 10 is variable, the lighting information specifying the light color is indicated by the ratio of light intensity for each LED module of each color. Furthermore, the lighting information specifying the irradiation direction of the light source unit 10 is indicated, for example, by a numerical value corresponding to the irradiation direction (e.g., 0: downward, 1: upward).

[0032] The control unit 14 mainly consists of a microcontroller. The control unit 14 is configured to perform various processes related to lighting control by having the microcontroller's processor execute a program for lighting control. Based on the wireless signal received by the wireless communication unit 12, the control unit 14 selects one scene information from among multiple scene information stored in the storage unit 13 and controls the power supply unit 11 based on the selected scene information.

[0033] (2.1.2) Sensor device As shown in Figure 3, the sensor device B1 includes a brightness detection unit 20, a human detection unit 21, a sensor control unit 22, a wireless communication unit 23, and a storage unit 24.

[0034] The brightness detection unit 20 includes, for example, a photoelectric conversion element and a signal processing circuit. The signal processing circuit processes the output signal of the photoelectric conversion element. The brightness detection unit 20 detects reflected light from the floor or desk surface within the detection range as the amount of incident light, converts the detected amount of incident light into a voltage signal (brightness signal), and outputs it to the sensor control unit 22.

[0035] The human detection unit 21 includes a passive type sensor that detects heat rays (infrared rays) emitted from the human body, generally called a heat ray sensor or PIR (Passive Infrared) sensor. The human detection unit 21 may also include an active type sensor that detects a person (moving object) by emitting radio waves (microwaves) and receiving the radio waves reflected by an antenna after they hit an object in space, thereby determining whether or not the object is moving. When the human detection unit 21 detects the presence of a person in the detection area, it outputs a human detection signal to the sensor control unit 22.

[0036] The brightness detection unit 20 and the person detection unit 21 may each have a single image sensor, and may be configured to detect a person from the difference between the background image acquired by the image sensor and the current image, as well as to detect brightness from the acquired image.

[0037] The sensor control unit 22 primarily consists of a microcontroller. The sensor control unit 22 is configured to perform various processes related to sensor control by having the microcontroller's processor execute a program for sensor control.

[0038] The sensor control unit 22 compares the brightness (illuminance within the detection range) indicated by the brightness signal input from the brightness detection unit 20 with the brightness target value, and creates a control command necessary to keep the difference between the illuminance within the detection range and the brightness target value within a predetermined range. For example, if the difference between the illuminance within the detection range and the brightness target value is greater than the upper limit of the predetermined range, the sensor control unit 22 creates a control command to lower the dimming level in order to reduce the difference between the illuminance within the detection range and the brightness target value. Conversely, if the difference between the illuminance within the detection range and the brightness target value is smaller than the lower limit of the predetermined range, the sensor control unit 22 creates a control command to raise the dimming level in order to reduce the difference between the illuminance within the detection range and the brightness target value. The sensor control unit 22 outputs the created control command to the wireless communication unit 23.

[0039] The wireless communication unit 23, like the wireless communication unit 12 of the lighting device A1, includes a wireless communication circuit and an antenna. The wireless communication circuit is an integrated circuit configured to perform wireless communication and mesh communication in accordance with the same wireless communication standards as the wireless communication circuit of the wireless communication unit 12. The wireless communication circuit can send and receive wireless signals through the antenna. The wireless communication unit 23 transmits messages, including control commands received from the sensor control unit 22, via wireless signals.

[0040] The memory unit 24 has, for example, an electrically rewritable non-volatile semiconductor memory. The memory unit 24 stores multiple scene information. Each scene information stored in the memory unit 24 matches the scene information stored in the memory unit 13 of the lighting device A1. More specifically, each scene information stored in the memory unit 24 includes the same mode specification information as the mode specification information stored in the memory unit 13 of the lighting device A1, and information regarding the operation of the sensor device B1.

[0041] (2.1.3) Communication equipment As shown in Figure 4, the communication device D1 includes a clock unit 40, a schedule storage unit 41, a schedule control unit 42, and a wireless communication unit 43.

[0042] The clock unit 40 includes, for example, a real-time clock module. The real-time clock module is an integrated circuit configured to generate and output digital data including the time and date from a clock source. The clock unit 40 outputs the digital data of the time and date (hereinafter also referred to as "clock data") generated by the real-time clock module to the schedule control unit 42.

[0043] The schedule storage unit 41 has an electrically rewritable non-volatile semiconductor memory. The schedule storage unit 41 stores a schedule for lighting control. The schedule includes, for example, a combination of time zones and specification information that specifies scene information.

[0044] The schedule control unit 42 primarily consists of a microcontroller. The schedule control unit 42 is configured to perform various processes related to schedule control by having the microcontroller's processor execute a program for schedule control. The schedule control unit 42 refers to the clock data obtained from the clock unit 40 and the schedule stored in the schedule storage unit 41, and when the current time in the clock data matches the start time of the schedule, it creates a control command from the schedule specification information and outputs it to the wireless communication unit 43.

[0045] The wireless communication unit 43, like the wireless communication unit 12 of the lighting device A1, includes a wireless communication circuit and an antenna. The wireless communication circuit is an integrated circuit configured to perform wireless communication and mesh communication in accordance with the same wireless communication standards as the wireless communication circuit of the wireless communication unit 12. The wireless communication circuit can send and receive wireless signals through the antenna. The wireless communication unit 43 transmits messages, including control commands received from the schedule control unit 42, via wireless signals.

[0046] Furthermore, if the microcontroller of the schedule control unit 42 is equipped with a real-time clock module, the clock function may be implemented using the real-time clock module of the microcontroller.

[0047] As described above, the communication device D1 transmits control commands to the lighting device A1 using clock data as a trigger input, and therefore can also play the role of a control device in the lighting control system S1.

[0048] (2.1.4) Tablet As shown in Figure 1, the tablet C1 is a portable computer system configured by housing, for example, an SoC (System on a chip) and a touch panel display device C10 in a rectangular, plate-shaped housing C11. As described above, the tablet C1 functions as the first communication terminal 100 in the wireless communication system S1.

[0049] An SoC is a single-chip semiconductor device that incorporates a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), and a modem, among other components. The touch panel display device C10 is, for example, a touch panel liquid crystal display or a touch panel organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display.

[0050] In the wireless communication system S1, the various functions of the tablet C1 are realized by having the SoC (CPU) execute control programs (application programs) and schedule setting programs (application programs).

[0051] As shown in Figure 5, the tablet C1 includes an input receiving unit 30, a control unit 31, and a wireless communication unit 32. The input receiving unit 30 is implemented by the touch panel of the tablet C1. The control unit 31 is implemented by the CPU of the tablet C1. The wireless communication unit 32 is implemented by the modem of the tablet C1. The wireless communication unit 32 is configured to perform wireless communication compliant with standards such as BLE and Wi-Fi (registered trademark).

[0052] The input receiving unit 30 accepts the input of setting data. The setting data includes the first interval T31 and the second interval T32 (see Figures 12 to 15) described later, and the first and second consecutive transmission counts mentioned above. The input receiving unit 30 accepts the input of setting data, for example, when the user operates the touch panel of the tablet C1.

[0053] As shown in Figure 5, the control unit 31 includes a creation unit 311. The creation unit 311 creates scene information, including lighting-related information and mode specification information, in response to operation inputs received by the input receiving unit 30.

[0054] Furthermore, the creation unit 311 creates setting information. The setting information includes the first consecutive transmission count and the second consecutive transmission count described above. The first consecutive transmission count is, as described above, the number of times the first radio signal Sig1 is transmitted continuously during the first transmission period PE1 (see Figure 12). The second consecutive transmission count is, as described above, the number of times the second radio signal Sig2 is transmitted continuously during the second transmission period PE2 (see Figure 13). Here, the first communication terminal 100 sets the first consecutive transmission count and the second consecutive transmission count to the second communication terminal 200 in the ratio of the first consecutive transmission count to the second consecutive transmission count. That is, the first consecutive transmission count and the second consecutive transmission count are set in the ratio of the first consecutive transmission count to the second consecutive transmission count. For example, if the input receiving unit 30 receives a setting instruction for a first consecutive transmission count of 10 and a second consecutive transmission count of 1, the creation unit 311 creates a command to set the second communication terminal 200 to 10, which is the ratio of the first consecutive transmission count to the second consecutive transmission count, and transmits it via the wireless communication unit 32 to set the first and second consecutive transmission counts on the second communication terminal 200. Alternatively, if the input receiving unit 30 receives a setting instruction for a first consecutive transmission count of 1 and a second consecutive transmission count of 10, the creation unit 311 creates a command to set the second communication terminal 200 to 0.1, which is the ratio of the first consecutive transmission count to the second consecutive transmission count, and transmits it via the wireless communication unit 32 to set the first and second consecutive transmission counts on the second communication terminal 200.

[0055] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as shown in Figure 1, the wireless communication system S1 includes a plurality of second communication terminals 200 (lighting devices A1). Each of the plurality of second communication terminals 200 is divided into two or more groups. The first communication terminal 100 can set a first consecutive transmission count and a second consecutive transmission count for each of the two or more groups. That is, the first communication terminal 100 can set the first consecutive transmission count and the second consecutive transmission count on a group basis. In the wireless communication system S1 according to this embodiment, the first communication terminal 100 is a setting device for setting the consecutive transmission count (first consecutive transmission count). In other words, the wireless communication system S1 according to this embodiment further includes a setting device (first communication terminal 100) for setting the consecutive transmission count.

[0056] (2.1.5) Handheld remote control As shown in Figure 1, the handheld remote control C2 has a main body C20 made of a rectangular parallelepiped-shaped synthetic resin molded body. The main body C20 is small enough for a person to hold in one hand. Multiple (six in the illustrated example) operation buttons C21 to C26 are provided on the front of the main body C20.

[0057] As shown in Figure 6, the handheld remote control C2 includes an input receiving unit 50, a control unit 51, and a wireless communication unit 52. The input receiving unit 50, the control unit 51, and the wireless communication unit 52 are housed in the main body C20 of the handheld remote control C2.

[0058] The input receiving unit 50 has six tact switches that correspond one-to-one with six operation buttons C21 to C26. The six tact switches are configured to turn on when the corresponding operation buttons C21 to C26 are pressed. In other words, the input receiving unit 50 is configured to accept operation inputs corresponding to each operation button C21 to C26 when the tact switches are turned on.

[0059] The control unit 51 mainly consists of a microcontroller. The control unit 51 is configured to perform various processes related to lighting control, such as scene selection and switching the lighting device A1 on and off, by having the microcontroller's processor execute a control program.

[0060] The wireless communication unit 52, like the wireless communication unit 12 of the lighting device A1, includes a wireless communication circuit and an antenna. The wireless communication circuit is an integrated circuit configured to perform wireless communication and mesh communication in accordance with the same wireless communication standards as the wireless communication circuit of the wireless communication unit 12. The wireless communication circuit can send and receive wireless signals through the antenna. The wireless communication unit 52 transmits messages, including control commands received from the control unit 51, via wireless signals.

[0061] (2.2) Mesh networks in wireless communication systems The wireless communication system S1 constructs a mesh network with each of the following devices acting as a communication terminal (node): lighting device A1, sensor device B1, and communication device D1. Each node in the mesh network (lighting device A1, sensor device B1, and communication device D1) is assigned a unique network address.

[0062] In this embodiment, the mesh network NW1 forms a partially connected mesh network, as shown in Figure 7. The mesh network NW1 has multiple (four in the illustrated example) subnetworks SN1, SN2, SN3, and SN4. Each of the multiple subnetworks SNi (i=1,2,3,4) has one or more nodes Nij (j=1,2,…). Each of the multiple nodes Nij can communicate directly with other nodes Nij within its own subnetwork SNi, but cannot communicate directly with nodes Nij belonging to a different subnetwork SNi.

[0063] In each subnetwork SNi, one of several nodes Nij acts as the management node MNi. Each management node MNi can communicate directly with other nodes Nij within its own subnetwork SNi, and also with other management nodes MNi belonging to other subnetwork SNi. In other words, all nodes Nij belonging to each subnetwork SNi can communicate via the management node MNi of its own subnetwork SNi with all nodes Nij belonging to other subnetwork SNi.

[0064] Furthermore, one of the multiple management nodes MNi acts as the master unit. The master unit performs processes such as synchronizing all nodes Nij (including the management node MNi) belonging to the mesh network NW1, and broadcasting messages to the entire mesh network NW1.

[0065] (2.3) Grouping in wireless communication systems As shown in Figure 8, a single wireless communication system S1 has one or more areas ARi (i=1,2,…,n). Each area ARi has one or more zones ZNij (j=1,2,…). Each zone ZNij contains multiple lighting devices A1 and, if necessary, one sensor device B1. Note that each zone ZNij may contain only one lighting device A1, and may not contain a sensor device B1.

[0066] Furthermore, the zoning of zone ZNij and area ARi is independent of the topology of the mesh network NW1. For example, multiple zone ZNij and area ARi may exist in one subnetwork SNi. Alternatively, multiple node Nij belonging to different subnetworks SNi may exist in one zone ZNij. Note that a single wireless communication system S1 has at most one communication device D1, but the communication device D1 does not belong to any area ARi or any zone ZNij.

[0067] In the wireless communication system S1, communication device D1 acts as the master unit in the mesh network NW1. If communication device D1 is not available, the wireless communication system S1 may also use either lighting device A1 or sensor device B1 to act as the master unit.

[0068] When the wireless communication system S1 is in operation, tablet C1 can communicate with the management node MNi in the mesh network NW1 via BLE communication. The wireless communication system S1 assigns the role of management node MNi to either sensor device B1, lighting device A1, or communication device D1. Furthermore, tablet C1 can communicate with all nodes (communication device D1, sensor device B1, lighting device A1) and handheld remote control C2 via BLE communication.

[0069] The handheld remote control C2 can perform mesh communication with the nodes of the mesh network NW1 (lighting device A1, sensor device B1, and communication device D1) only when transmitting control commands. Additionally, the handheld remote control C2 can perform BLE communication with the tablet C1.

[0070] (3) Wireless communication method Next, a wireless communication method according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 9 to 11. The wireless communication method according to the embodiment is performed, for example, by the wireless communication system S1 according to the embodiment. However, the entity that performs the wireless communication method is not limited to the wireless communication system S1.

[0071] The wireless communication method according to the embodiment includes wireless communication steps (steps ST2, ST7) as shown in Figure 9. In the wireless communication step, a first wireless signal Sig1 for communication connection and a second wireless signal Sig2, which is different from the first wireless signal Sig1, are transmitted. More specifically, in the wireless communication step, the first wireless signal Sig1 is transmitted intermittently until the number of transmissions of the first wireless signal Sig1 reaches the number of consecutive transmissions of the first wireless signal Sig1, and when the number of transmissions of the first wireless signal Sig1 reaches the number of consecutive transmissions, the second wireless signal Sig2 is transmitted.

[0072] In the wireless communication method according to this embodiment, in the wireless communication step, the first radio signal Sig1 is transmitted intermittently until the number of transmissions of the first radio signal Sig1 reaches the number of consecutive transmissions of the first radio signal Sig1, and when the number of transmissions of the first radio signal Sig1 reaches the number of consecutive transmissions, the second radio signal Sig2 is transmitted. As a result, the first radio signal Sig1 and the second radio signal Sig2 are not transmitted simultaneously or aperiodically, making it less likely for burst traffic to occur, and thus it is possible to suppress a decrease in the reliability of communication.

[0073] (3.1) Signal transmission processing First, the signal transmission process of the wireless communication system S1 will be explained with reference to Figure 9.

[0074] The wireless communication unit 12 of the second communication terminal 200 of the wireless communication system S1 determines whether to transmit a first wireless signal Sig1 or a second wireless signal Sig2 to the first communication terminal 100 (step ST1). If it is determined to transmit the first wireless signal Sig1 (step ST1: Yes), the wireless communication unit 12 transmits the first wireless signal Sig1 (step ST2). At this time, the wireless communication unit 12 counts up the number of transmissions of the first wireless signal Sig1. After that, the wireless communication unit 12 determines whether the number of transmissions of the first wireless signal Sig1 has reached the first consecutive transmission count (step ST3).

[0075] If the number of transmissions of the first radio signal Sig1 has not reached the first consecutive transmission count (step ST3: No), the wireless communication unit 12 waits until the first transmission cycle T1 (see Figure 12), described later, has elapsed (step ST6). Once the first transmission cycle T1 has elapsed, the wireless communication unit 12 returns to step ST2 and transmits the first radio signal Sig1. At this time, the wireless communication unit 12 counts up the number of transmissions of the first radio signal Sig1.

[0076] Meanwhile, if the number of transmissions of the first radio signal Sig1 reaches the first consecutive transmission count (step ST3: Yes), the wireless communication unit 12 determines that the next radio signal to be transmitted will be the second radio signal Sig2 (step ST4). The wireless communication unit 12 then waits until the first interval T31 (see Figures 12 to 15), which is the interval for switching from the first radio signal Sig1 to the second radio signal Sig2, has elapsed (step ST5).

[0077] When the first interval T31 has elapsed, the wireless communication unit 12 determines to transmit the second wireless signal Sig2 (step ST1: No) and transmits the second wireless signal Sig2 (step ST7). At this time, the wireless communication unit 12 counts up the number of transmissions of the second wireless signal Sig2. After that, the wireless communication unit 12 determines whether the number of transmissions of the second wireless signal Sig2 has reached the second consecutive transmission count (step ST8).

[0078] If the number of transmissions of the second radio signal Sig2 has not reached the second consecutive transmission count (step ST8: No), the wireless communication unit 12 waits until the second transmission cycle T2 (see Figure 13), described later, has elapsed (step ST10). Once the second transmission cycle T2 has elapsed, the wireless communication unit 12 returns to step ST7 and transmits the second radio signal Sig2. At this time, the wireless communication unit 12 counts up the number of transmissions of the second radio signal Sig2.

[0079] Meanwhile, if the number of transmissions of the second radio signal Sig2 reaches the second consecutive transmission count (step ST8: Yes), the wireless communication unit 12 decides that the next radio signal to be transmitted will be the first radio signal Sig1 (step ST9). The wireless communication unit 12 then waits until the second interval T32 (see Figures 12 to 15), which is the interval for switching from the second radio signal Sig2 to the first radio signal Sig1, has elapsed (step ST5).

[0080] In the example in Figure 9, steps ST2 and ST7 correspond to wireless communication steps.

[0081] (3.2) Configuration process Next, the configuration process for the wireless communication system S1 will be explained with reference to Figures 10 and 11.

[0082] The input unit 30 of the first communication terminal 100 receives setting data (setting information) (step ST11 in Figure 10). The control unit 31 of the first communication terminal 31 acquires the setting data received by the input receiving unit 30 (step ST12 in Figure 10). The wireless communication unit 32 of the first communication terminal 100 transmits a wireless signal containing the setting data acquired by the control unit 31 to the second communication terminal 200 (step ST13 in Figure 10).

[0083] Meanwhile, the wireless communication unit 12 of the second communication terminal 200 receives the wireless signal transmitted from the wireless communication unit 32 of the first communication terminal 100 (step ST21 in Figure 11). The control unit 14 of the second communication terminal 200 acquires setting data from the wireless signal received by the wireless communication unit 12 and stores it in the storage unit 13 (step ST22 in Figure 11). Furthermore, the control unit 14 passes the acquired setting data to the wireless communication unit 12 (step ST23 in Figure 11). After that, the control unit 14 initializes (resets) the number of transmissions of the first wireless signal Sig1 and the number of transmissions of the second wireless signal Sig2 (step ST24 in Figure 11). Then, the control unit 14 sets the first wireless signal to be transmitted by the wireless communication unit 12 to the first wireless signal Sig1 (step ST25 in Figure 11).

[0084] (3.3) Specific examples of signal transmission Next, a specific example of signal transmission by the wireless communication unit 12 of the second communication terminal 200 will be explained with reference to Figures 12 to 15. In Figures 12 to 15, different hatching is applied to the first wireless signal Sig1 and the second wireless signal Sig2 to make them easier to distinguish.

[0085] (3.3.1) Example 1 First, a first example of signal transmission by the wireless communication unit 12 will be explained with reference to Figure 12. In the example in Figure 12, the first transmission period T1, which is the transmission period of the first wireless signal Sig1, is 100 ms. Also in the example in Figure 12, the ratio of the first consecutive transmission count, which is the number of consecutive transmissions of the first wireless signal Sig1, to the second consecutive transmission count, which is the number of consecutive transmissions of the second wireless signal Sig2, is 10:1. Also in the example in Figure 12, the first interval T31 and the second interval T32 are each, for example, 100 ms. That is, in the example in Figure 12, the first interval T31 and the second interval T32 are each fixed values.

[0086] The first interval T31 is the interval during which the system switches from the first transmission period PE1, in which the first radio signal Sig1 is transmitted, to the second transmission period PE2, in which the second radio signal Sig2 is transmitted. The second interval T32 is the interval during which the system switches from the second transmission period PE2 to the first transmission period PE1.

[0087] The wireless communication unit 12 transmits a first radio signal Sig1 during the first transmission period PE1. More specifically, during the first transmission period PE1, the wireless communication unit 12 transmits 10 first radio signals Sig1 in succession during the first transmission period T1. After that, the wireless communication unit 12 transmits a second radio signal Sig2 after the first interval T31 has elapsed. More specifically, during the second transmission period PE2, after the first interval T31 has elapsed, the wireless communication unit 12 transmits one second radio signal Sig2.

[0088] Next, the wireless communication unit 12 transmits the first radio signal Sig1 after the second interval T32 has elapsed. More specifically, during the first transmission period PE1 after the second interval T32 has elapsed, the wireless communication unit 12 transmits 10 first radio signals Sig1. Similarly, the wireless communication unit 12 alternately transmits 10 first radio signals Sig1 and 1 second radio signal Sig2.

[0089] (3.3.2) Second example Next, a second example of signal transmission by the wireless communication unit 12 will be explained with reference to Figure 13. In the example in Figure 13, the second transmission period T2, which is the transmission period of the second wireless signal Sig2, is 100 ms. Also in the example in Figure 13, the ratio of the first consecutive transmission count, which is the number of consecutive transmissions of the first wireless signal Sig1, to the second consecutive transmission count, which is the number of consecutive transmissions of the second wireless signal Sig2, is 1:10. Also in the example in Figure 13, the first interval T31 and the second interval T32 are each, for example, 100 ms. That is, in the example in Figure 13, the first interval T31 and the second interval T32 are each fixed values.

[0090] The wireless communication unit 12 transmits a second radio signal Sig2 during the second transmission period PE2. More specifically, during the second transmission period PE2, the wireless communication unit 12 transmits 10 second radio signals Sig2 in succession during the second transmission period T2. After that, the wireless communication unit 12 transmits a first radio signal Sig1 after the second interval T32 has elapsed. More specifically, during the first transmission period PE1 after the second interval T32 has elapsed, the wireless communication unit 12 transmits one first radio signal Sig1.

[0091] Next, the wireless communication unit 12 transmits the second radio signal Sig2 after the first interval T31 has elapsed. More specifically, the wireless communication unit 12 transmits 10 second radio signals Sig2 during the second transmission period PE2 after the first interval T31 has elapsed. Similarly, the wireless communication unit 12 alternately transmits one first radio signal Sig1 and 10 second radio signals Sig2.

[0092] (3.3.3) Third example Next, a third example of signal transmission by the wireless communication unit 12 will be explained with reference to Figure 14. In the example in Figure 14, the ratio of the first consecutive transmission count, which is the number of consecutive transmissions of the first wireless signal Sig1, to the second consecutive transmission count, which is the number of consecutive transmissions of the second wireless signal Sig2, is 1:1. Also, in the example in Figure 14, the first interval T31 and the second interval T32 are each, for example, 500ms. That is, in the example in Figure 14, the first interval T31 and the second interval T32 are each fixed values.

[0093] The wireless communication unit 12 transmits a second radio signal Sig2 during the second transmission period PE2. More specifically, the wireless communication unit 12 transmits one second radio signal Sig2 during the second transmission period PE2. After that, the wireless communication unit 12 transmits a first radio signal Sig1 after the second interval T32 has elapsed. More specifically, the wireless communication unit 12 transmits one first radio signal Sig1 during the first transmission period PE1 after the second interval T32 has elapsed.

[0094] Next, the wireless communication unit 12 transmits the second radio signal Sig2 after the first interval T31 has elapsed. More specifically, the wireless communication unit 12 transmits one second radio signal Sig2 during the second transmission period PE2 after the first interval T31 has elapsed. Similarly, the wireless communication unit 12 alternately transmits one first radio signal Sig1 and one second radio signal Sig2.

[0095] (3.3.4) Fourth example Next, a fourth example of signal transmission by the wireless communication unit 12 will be explained with reference to Figure 15. In the example in Figure 15, the first transmission period T1, which is the transmission period of the first wireless signal Sig1, is 150 ms, and the second transmission period T2, which is the transmission period of the second wireless signal Sig2, is 100 ms. That is, in the example in Figure 15, the first transmission period T1 and the second transmission period T2 are different. Also, in the example in Figure 15, the ratio of the first consecutive transmission count, which is the number of consecutive transmissions of the first wireless signal Sig1, to the second consecutive transmission count, which is the number of consecutive transmissions of the second wireless signal Sig2, is 2:5. Also, in the example in Figure 15, the first interval T31 and the second interval T32 are each, for example, 100 ms. That is, in the example in Figure 15, the first interval T31 and the second interval T32 are each fixed values.

[0096] The wireless communication unit 12 transmits a second radio signal Sig2 during the second transmission period PE2. More specifically, during the second transmission period PE2, the wireless communication unit 12 transmits five second radio signals Sig2 in succession during the second transmission cycle T2. After that, the wireless communication unit 12 transmits a first radio signal Sig1 after the second interval T32 has elapsed. More specifically, during the first transmission period PE1 after the second interval T32 has elapsed, the wireless communication unit 12 transmits two first radio signals Sig1 in succession during the first transmission cycle T1.

[0097] Next, the wireless communication unit 12 transmits the second radio signal Sig2 after the first interval T31 has elapsed. More specifically, during the second transmission period PE2 after the first interval T31 has elapsed, the wireless communication unit 12 transmits five second radio signals Sig2 in succession with a second transmission cycle T2. Similarly, the wireless communication unit 12 alternately transmits two first radio signals Sig1 and five second radio signals Sig2.

[0098] As described above, in the example shown in Figure 15, the wireless communication unit 12 periodically transmits the first wireless signal Sig1 in the first transmission cycle T1 and the second wireless signal Sig2 in the second transmission cycle T2.

[0099] (4) Effects In the wireless communication system S1 according to this embodiment, the wireless communication unit 12 intermittently transmits the first wireless signal Sig1 until the number of transmissions of the first wireless signal Sig1 reaches the number of consecutive transmissions (first consecutive transmission count), and transmits the second wireless signal Sig2 when the number of transmissions of the first wireless signal Sig1 reaches the number of consecutive transmissions. As a result, the first wireless signal Sig1 and the second wireless signal Sig2 are not transmitted simultaneously or aperiodically, making it less likely for burst traffic to occur, and thus suppressing a decrease in communication reliability.

[0100] Furthermore, in the wireless communication system S1 according to this embodiment, the wireless communication unit 12 intermittently transmits the second wireless signal Sig2 until the number of transmissions of the second wireless signal Sig2 reaches the second consecutive transmission count, and transmits the first wireless signal Sig1 when the number of transmissions of the second wireless signal Sig2 reaches the second consecutive transmission count. As a result, the first wireless signal Sig1 and the second wireless signal Sig2 are not transmitted simultaneously or aperiodically, making it less likely for burst traffic to occur, and thus further suppressing the deterioration of communication reliability.

[0101] Furthermore, in the wireless communication system S1 according to the embodiment, the first communication terminal 100 sets the first number of consecutive transmissions and the second number of consecutive transmissions to the second communication terminal 200. This makes it possible to set the first number of consecutive transmissions and the second number of consecutive transmissions to the second communication terminal 200. In particular, when the first number of consecutive transmissions and the second number of consecutive transmissions are set as a ratio of the first number of consecutive transmissions and the second number of consecutive transmissions, it is possible to reduce the amount of setting information transmitted from the first communication terminal 100 to the second communication terminal 200.

[0102] Furthermore, in the wireless communication system S1 according to this embodiment, the first communication terminal 100 can set the first number of consecutive transmissions and the second number of consecutive transmissions on a group basis.

[0103] Furthermore, the wireless communication system S1 according to this embodiment makes it possible to periodically transmit the first wireless signal Sig1 and the second wireless signal Sig2.

[0104] (5) Variant The embodiments described above are merely one of many embodiments of this disclosure. The embodiments described above can be modified in various ways depending on the design, etc., as long as the objectives of this disclosure are achieved. Furthermore, functions similar to those of the wireless communication system S1 according to the embodiments described above may be embodied in the wireless communication method, (computer) program, or non-temporary recording medium on which the program is stored. A program according to one embodiment is a program that causes one or more processors to execute the wireless communication method described above. Such a program makes it possible to suppress a decrease in the reliability of communication.

[0105] The following lists some modifications of the above-described embodiment. The modifications described below can be combined and applied as appropriate.

[0106] (5.1) Variation 1 The wireless communication unit 12 may be configured to transmit a third radio signal different from the first radio signal Sig1 and the second radio signal Sig2. The third radio signal is, for example, a radio signal transmitted between the second communication terminals 200 in the mesh network NW1 (see Figure 7) described above. Preferably, the wireless communication unit 12 is configured to transmit the third radio signal during a third transmission period. The third transmission period is a transmission period different from the first transmission period PE1 in which the first radio signal Sig1 is transmitted, and the second transmission period PE2 in which the second radio signal Sig2 is transmitted. In the example in Figure 12, the third transmission period is set, for example, to a first interval T31 or a second interval T32 in which neither the first radio signal Sig1 nor the second radio signal Sig2 is transmitted. This makes it possible to transmit the third radio signal at a different timing than the first radio signal Sig1 and the second radio signal Sig2.

[0107] (5.2) Variation 2 In the above-described embodiment, the first interval T31 when switching from the first transmission period PE1 to the second transmission period PE2, and the second interval T32 when switching from the second transmission period PE2 to the first transmission period PE1, are both fixed values. In contrast, the first interval T31 and the second interval T32 may each be variable. This makes it possible to change the first interval T31 and the second interval T32.

[0108] Furthermore, one of the first interval T31 and the second interval T32 may be a fixed value and the other variable. That is, the first interval T31 may be a fixed value and the second interval T32 may be variable, or the second interval T32 may be a fixed value and the first interval T31 may be variable.

[0109] (5.3) Modification 3 In the above embodiment, the first interval T31 when switching from the first transmission period PE1 to the second transmission period PE2, and the second interval T32 when switching from the second transmission period PE2 to the first transmission period PE1, are fixed values. However, the first interval T31 may be the first transmission period T1, which is the transmission interval of the first radio signal Sig1. Similarly, the second interval T32 may be the second transmission period T2, which is the transmission interval of the second radio signal Sig2. This has the advantage that setting and changing the first interval T31 and the second interval T32 is unnecessary.

[0110] (5.4) Modification 4 In the above embodiment, the first interval T31 when switching from the first transmission period PE1 to the second transmission period PE2, and the second interval T32 when switching from the second transmission period PE2 to the first transmission period PE1, are fixed values. However, the first interval T31 may be the second transmission period T2, which is the transmission interval of the second radio signal Sig2. Also, the second interval T32 may be the first transmission period T1, which is the transmission interval of the first radio signal Sig1. This has the advantage that setting and changing the first interval T31 and the second interval T32 is unnecessary.

[0111] (5.5) Variation 5 In the fourth example of signal transmission in the above-described embodiment, the first transmission period T1, which is the transmission period of the first radio signal Sig1, and the second transmission period T2, which is the transmission period of the second radio signal Sig2, are different. In contrast, the first transmission period T1 and the second transmission period T2 may be the same. This makes it possible to transmit the first radio signal Sig1 and the second radio signal Sig2 with the same transmission period.

[0112] (5.6) Other variations The following lists other modifications of the embodiments described above.

[0113] The entity executing the wireless communication system S1 or wireless communication method in this disclosure includes a computer system. The computer system mainly consists of a processor and memory as hardware. The processor executes a program recorded in the computer system's memory to realize the function of the entity executing the wireless communication system S1 or wireless communication method in this disclosure. The program may be pre-recorded in the computer system's memory, provided via a telecommunication line, or provided on a non-temporary recording medium such as a memory card, optical disk, or hard disk drive that is readable by the computer system. The processor of the computer system consists of one or more electronic circuits including semiconductor integrated circuits (ICs) or large-scale integrated circuits (LSIs). The integrated circuits referred to here, such as ICs or LSIs, are named differently depending on the degree of integration and include integrated circuits called system LSIs, VLSIs (Very Large Scale Integration), or ULSIs (Ultra Large Scale Integration). Furthermore, FPGAs (Field-Programmable Gate Arrays) that are programmed after the manufacture of the LSI, or logic devices that allow for the reconfiguration of junction relationships or circuit compartments within the LSI, can also be used as processors. Multiple electronic circuits may be integrated onto a single chip or distributed across multiple chips. Multiple chips may be integrated onto 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, the microcontroller also consists of one or more electronic circuits, including semiconductor integrated circuits or large-scale integrated circuits.

[0114] Furthermore, it is not essential for the wireless communication system S1 to have multiple functions integrated into a single housing; the components of the wireless communication system S1 may be distributed across multiple housings.

[0115] Conversely, in the above-described embodiment, at least some of the functions of the wireless communication system S1, which are distributed across multiple devices, may be consolidated into a single housing. For example, some of the functions of the wireless communication system S1, which are distributed across the lighting device A1 and the sensor device B1, may be consolidated into a single housing.

[0116] In the embodiment described above, the first communication terminal 100, consisting of a tablet C1, functions as a setting device. However, for example, a handheld remote control C2 may function as a setting device. In this case, the handheld remote control C2, as a setting device, sets the first and second consecutive transmission counts described above. More specifically, the handheld remote control C2, as a setting device, sets the first and second consecutive transmission counts as a ratio of the first and second consecutive transmission counts.

[0117] (Appearance) This specification discloses the following aspects:

[0118] The wireless communication system (S1) according to the first embodiment includes a first communication terminal (100) and a second communication terminal (200) different from the first communication terminal (100). The second communication terminal (200) has a wireless communication unit (12) that transmits wireless signals to the first communication terminal (100). The wireless communication unit (12) is capable of transmitting, as the wireless signals, a first wireless signal (Sig1) for communication connection with the first communication terminal (100) and a second wireless signal (Sig2) different from the first wireless signal (Sig1). The wireless communication unit (12) has setting information including the number of consecutive transmissions of the first wireless signal (Sig1). The wireless communication unit (12) intermittently transmits the first wireless signal (Sig1) until the number of transmissions of the first wireless signal (Sig1) reaches the number of consecutive transmissions, and transmits the second wireless signal (Sig2) when the number of transmissions of the first wireless signal (Sig1) reaches the number of consecutive transmissions.

[0119] According to this embodiment, the wireless communication unit (12) intermittently transmits the first wireless signal (Sig1) until the number of transmissions of the first wireless signal (Sig1) reaches the number of continuous transmissions, and then transmits the second wireless signal (Sig2) once the number of transmissions of the first wireless signal (Sig1) reaches the number of continuous transmissions. As a result, the first wireless signal (Sig1) and the second wireless signal (Sig2) are not transmitted simultaneously or aperiodically, making it less likely for burst traffic to occur, and thus suppressing a decrease in communication reliability.

[0120] In the wireless communication system (S1) according to the second embodiment, in the first embodiment, the setting information further includes a second consecutive transmission count, which is the number of consecutive transmissions of the second radio signal (Sig2), in addition to the first consecutive transmission count, which is the number of consecutive transmissions. The wireless communication unit (12) intermittently transmits the second radio signal (Sig2) until the number of transmissions of the second radio signal (Sig2) reaches the second consecutive transmission count, and transmits the first radio signal (Sig1) when the number of transmissions of the second radio signal (Sig2) reaches the second consecutive transmission count.

[0121] According to this embodiment, the wireless communication unit (12) intermittently transmits the second wireless signal (Sig2) until the number of transmissions of the second wireless signal (Sig2) reaches the second consecutive transmission count, and then transmits the first wireless signal (Sig1) once the number of transmissions of the second wireless signal (Sig2) reaches the second consecutive transmission count. As a result, the first wireless signal (Sig1) and the second wireless signal (Sig2) are not transmitted simultaneously or aperiodically, making it less likely for burst traffic to occur, and thus further suppressing the deterioration of communication reliability.

[0122] The wireless communication system (S1) according to the third embodiment further comprises a setting device (100) in the first or second embodiment. The setting device (100) sets the number of consecutive transmissions.

[0123] According to this embodiment, it becomes possible to set the number of consecutive transmissions.

[0124] In the wireless communication system (S1) according to the fourth embodiment, the setting device (100) is the first communication terminal (100) in the third embodiment.

[0125] According to this embodiment, the number of consecutive transmissions can be set at the first communication terminal (100).

[0126] In the wireless communication system (S1) according to the fifth embodiment, in the third or fourth embodiment, the setting information further includes a second consecutive transmission count. The second consecutive transmission count is different from the first consecutive transmission count, which is the total number of consecutive transmissions, and is the number of consecutive transmissions of the second radio signal (Sig2). The first consecutive transmission count and the second consecutive transmission count are set as the ratio of the first consecutive transmission count to the second consecutive transmission count.

[0127] According to this embodiment, it is possible to reduce the amount of information of the setting information transmitted from the setting device (100) to the second communication terminal (200).

[0128] The wireless communication system (S1) according to the sixth embodiment includes a plurality of second communication terminals (200), including a second communication terminal (200), in any one of the third to fifth embodiments. Each of the plurality of second communication terminals (200) is divided into two or more groups. The setting information further includes a second consecutive transmission count. The second consecutive transmission count differs from the first consecutive transmission count, which is the total number of consecutive transmissions, in that it is the number of consecutive transmissions of the second radio signal (Sig2). The setting device (100) can set the first consecutive transmission count and the second consecutive transmission count for each of the two or more groups.

[0129] According to this embodiment, the first number of consecutive transmissions and the second number of consecutive transmissions can be set on a group basis.

[0130] In the wireless communication system (S1) according to the seventh embodiment, in any one of the first to sixth embodiments, the wireless communication unit (12) periodically transmits a first radio signal (Sig1) in a first transmission cycle (T1) and periodically transmits a second radio signal (Sig2) in a second transmission cycle (T2).

[0131] According to this embodiment, it becomes possible to periodically transmit a first radio signal (Sig1) and a second radio signal (Sig2).

[0132] In the wireless communication system (S1) according to the eighth embodiment, the first transmission period (T1) and the second transmission period (T2) are the same as in the seventh embodiment.

[0133] According to this embodiment, it becomes possible to transmit the first radio signal (Sig1) and the second radio signal (Sig2) with the same transmission period.

[0134] In the wireless communication system (S1) according to the ninth aspect, in any one of the first to eighth aspects, the wireless communication unit (12) transmits a third radio signal during the third transmission period. The third transmission period is different from the first transmission period (PE1) for transmitting the first radio signal (Sig1) and the second transmission period (PE2) for transmitting the second radio signal (Sig2). The third radio signal is a signal different from the first radio signal (Sig1) and the second radio signal (Sig2).

[0135] According to this embodiment, it is possible to transmit the third radio signal at a different timing from the first radio signal (Sig1) and the second radio signal (Sig2).

[0136] In the wireless communication system (S1) according to the 10th embodiment, in any one of the 1st to 9th embodiments, at least one of the first interval (T31) when switching from the first transmission period (PE1) to the second transmission period (PE2), and the second interval (T32) when switching from the second transmission period (PE2) to the first transmission period (PE1) is a fixed value. The first transmission period (PE1) is the period during which the first radio signal (Sig1) is transmitted. The second transmission period (PE2) is the period during which the second radio signal (Sig2) is transmitted.

[0137] This embodiment has the advantage that it does not require any changes to the first interval (T31) and the second interval (T32).

[0138] In the wireless communication system (S1) according to the 11th embodiment, in any one of the first to 9 embodiments, at least one of the first interval (T31) when switching from the first transmission period (PE1) to the second transmission period (PE2), and the second interval (T32) when switching from the second transmission period (PE2) to the first transmission period (PE1) is variable. The first transmission period (PE1) is the period during which the first radio signal (Sig1) is transmitted. The second transmission period (PE2) is the period during which the second radio signal (Sig2) is transmitted.

[0139] According to this embodiment, it is possible to change the first interval (T31) and the second interval (T32).

[0140] In the wireless communication system (S1) according to the 12th embodiment, in any one of the first to 9 embodiments, the first interval (T31) when switching from the first transmission period (PE1) to the second transmission period (PE2) is the transmission interval (T1) of the first radio signal (Sig1). The second interval (T32) when switching from the second transmission period (PE2) to the first transmission period (PE1) is the transmission interval (T2) of the second radio signal (Sig2). The first transmission period (PE1) is the period during which the first radio signal (Sig1) is transmitted. The second transmission period (PE2) is the period during which the second radio signal (Sig2) is transmitted.

[0141] This embodiment has the advantage that it does not require setting or changing the first interval (T31) and the second interval (T32).

[0142] In the wireless communication system (S1) according to the 13th embodiment, in any one of the first to 9 embodiments, the first interval (T31) when switching from the first transmission period (PE1) to the second transmission period (PE2) is the transmission interval (T2) of the second radio signal (Sig2). The second interval (T32) when switching from the second transmission period (PE2) to the first transmission period (PE1) is the transmission interval (T1) of the first radio signal (Sig1). The first transmission period (PE1) is the period during which the first radio signal (Sig1) is transmitted. The second transmission period (PE2) is the period during which the second radio signal (Sig2) is transmitted.

[0143] This embodiment has the advantage that it does not require setting or changing the first interval (T31) and the second interval (T32).

[0144] The communication device (A1) according to the 14th embodiment is used as a second communication terminal (200) in any one of the first to 13th embodiments of the wireless communication system (S1).

[0145] According to this embodiment, the wireless communication unit (12) intermittently transmits the first wireless signal (Sig1) until the number of transmissions of the first wireless signal (Sig1) reaches the number of continuous transmissions, and then transmits the second wireless signal (Sig2) once the number of transmissions of the first wireless signal (Sig1) reaches the number of continuous transmissions. As a result, the first wireless signal (Sig1) and the second wireless signal (Sig2) are not transmitted simultaneously or aperiodically, making it less likely for burst traffic to occur, and thus suppressing a decrease in communication reliability.

[0146] The wireless communication method according to the 15th embodiment includes wireless communication steps (ST2, ST7) for transmitting a first wireless signal (Sig1) for communication connection and a second wireless signal (Sig2) different from the first wireless signal (Sig1). In the wireless communication steps (ST2, ST7), the first wireless signal (Sig1) is transmitted intermittently until the number of transmissions of the first wireless signal (Sig1) reaches the number of continuous transmissions of the first wireless signal (Sig1), and when the number of transmissions of the first wireless signal (Sig1) reaches the number of continuous transmissions, the second wireless signal (Sig2) is transmitted.

[0147] According to this embodiment, in the wireless communication steps (ST2, ST7), the first radio signal (Sig1) is transmitted intermittently until the number of transmissions of the first radio signal (Sig1) reaches the number of continuous transmissions of the first radio signal (Sig1), at which point the second radio signal (Sig2) is transmitted. As a result, the first radio signal (Sig1) and the second radio signal (Sig2) are not transmitted simultaneously or aperiodically, making it less likely for burst traffic to occur, and thus suppressing a decrease in communication reliability.

[0148] The program relating to the 16th aspect is a program that causes one or more processors to execute the wireless communication method of the 15th aspect.

[0149] This embodiment makes it possible to suppress a decline in the reliability of communications.

[0150] The configurations relating to the second to thirteenth aspects are not essential to the wireless communication system (S1) and can be omitted as appropriate. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0151] 12 Wireless Communication Section 100 First communication terminal (setting device) 200 Second communication terminal A1 Lighting device (second communication terminal) PE1 First transmission period PE2 Second transmission period S1 Wireless Communication System Sig1 First radio signal Sig2 2nd radio signal ST2, ST7 Step (Wireless Communication Step) T1 First transmission cycle (transmission interval of the first radio signal) T2 Second transmission cycle (transmission interval of the second radio signal) T31 1st Interval T32 Second Interval

Claims

1. First communication terminal and The system comprises a second communication terminal different from the first communication terminal, The second communication terminal has a wireless communication unit that transmits a wireless signal to the first communication terminal, The wireless communication unit uses the following as the wireless signal: A first radio signal for communication connection with the aforementioned first communication terminal, It is possible to transmit a second radio signal that is different from the first radio signal, The setting information includes the number of consecutive transmissions of the first wireless signal, The first radio signal is transmitted intermittently until the number of transmissions of the first radio signal reaches the number of continuous transmissions. When the number of transmissions of the first wireless signal reaches the number of consecutive transmissions, the second wireless signal is transmitted. Wireless communication system.

2. The aforementioned setting information, unlike the first consecutive transmission count which is the number of consecutive transmissions, further includes a second consecutive transmission count which is the number of consecutive transmissions of the second wireless signal, The aforementioned wireless communication unit is The second radio signal is transmitted intermittently until the number of transmissions of the second radio signal reaches the second number of consecutive transmissions. When the number of transmissions of the second radio signal reaches the second consecutive transmission count, the first radio signal is transmitted. The wireless communication system according to claim 1.

3. The device further includes a setting device for setting the number of consecutive transmissions. The wireless communication system according to claim 1.

4. The setting device is the first communication terminal, The wireless communication system according to claim 3.

5. The aforementioned setting information, unlike the first consecutive transmission count which is the number of consecutive transmissions, further includes a second consecutive transmission count which is the number of consecutive transmissions of the second wireless signal, The first number of consecutive transmissions and the second number of consecutive transmissions are set by the ratio of the first number of consecutive transmissions and the second number of consecutive transmissions. The wireless communication system according to claim 3.

6. The system comprises multiple second communication terminals, including the aforementioned second communication terminal. Each of the aforementioned plurality of second communication terminals is divided into two or more groups, The aforementioned setting information, unlike the first consecutive transmission count which is the number of consecutive transmissions, further includes a second consecutive transmission count which is the number of consecutive transmissions of the second wireless signal, The setting device is capable of setting the first number of consecutive transmissions and the second number of consecutive transmissions for each of the two or more groups. The wireless communication system according to claim 3.

7. The aforementioned wireless communication unit is The first wireless signal is transmitted periodically in the first transmission cycle. The second wireless signal is transmitted periodically in the second transmission cycle. A wireless communication system according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The first transmission period and the second transmission period are the same. The wireless communication system according to claim 7.

9. The wireless communication unit transmits a third wireless signal different from the first wireless signal and the second wireless signal during a third transmission period which is different from the first transmission period for transmitting the first wireless signal and the second transmission period for transmitting the second wireless signal. A wireless communication system according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

10. At least one of the first interval when switching from the first transmission period for transmitting the first radio signal to the second transmission period for transmitting the second radio signal, and the second interval when switching from the second transmission period to the first transmission period, is a fixed value. A wireless communication system according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

11. At least one of the first interval for switching from a first transmission period for transmitting the first radio signal to a second transmission period for transmitting the second radio signal, and the second interval for switching from the second transmission period to the first transmission period, is variable. A wireless communication system according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

12. The first interval for switching from the first transmission period for transmitting the first radio signal to the second transmission period for transmitting the second radio signal is the transmission interval for the first radio signal. The second interval when switching from the second transmission period to the first transmission period is the transmission interval of the second radio signal. A wireless communication system according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

13. The first interval for switching from the first transmission period for transmitting the first radio signal to the second transmission period for transmitting the second radio signal is the transmission interval for the second radio signal. The second interval when switching from the second transmission period to the first transmission period is the transmission interval of the first radio signal. A wireless communication system according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

14. A wireless communication system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, used as the second communication terminal, Communication device.

15. The wireless communication step includes transmitting a first wireless signal for communication connection and a second wireless signal different from the first wireless signal, In the aforementioned wireless communication step, The first radio signal is transmitted intermittently until the number of transmissions of the first radio signal reaches the number of consecutive transmissions of the first radio signal. When the number of transmissions of the first wireless signal reaches the number of consecutive transmissions, the second wireless signal is transmitted. Wireless communication method.

16. A program for causing one or more processors to execute the wireless communication method described in claim 15.

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