Power supply units, lighting devices, and lighting fixtures
By mounting the power supply unit and wireless communication unit on opposite surfaces and coupling them in a shorter direction, the lighting fixture addresses long wiring lengths, reducing noise and improving workability and wireless performance.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- PANASONIC INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2026-02-25
- Publication Date
- 2026-05-19
AI Technical Summary
Conventional lighting fixtures with separate locations for the lighting circuit and wireless communication module result in long wiring lengths, which can lead to increased noise leakage and reduced workability.
The power supply device and lighting fixture are designed with the power supply unit mounted on one surface and the wireless communication unit mounted on the opposite surface, with the wireless communication unit's case coupled to the power supply case in a shorter direction, reducing wiring length and noise leakage.
This configuration shortens wiring length, reduces noise, improves workability, and enhances wireless performance by minimizing radio wave attenuation.
Smart Images

Figure 2026083125000001_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The present disclosure relates to a power supply device, a lighting device, and a lighting fixture, and more particularly, to a power supply device having a wireless communication function, a lighting device including the power supply device, and a lighting fixture including the lighting device.
Background Art
[0002] As a conventional example, a lighting fixture described in Patent Document 1 is exemplified. The lighting fixture described in Patent Document 1 (hereinafter referred to as the conventional example) includes an LED module, a lighting circuit that controls lighting of the LED module, and a wireless communication unit that is connected to the lighting circuit and performs wireless communication with other lighting fixtures or lighting control devices.
[0003] The wireless communication unit includes a wireless communication unit case fixed to a sheet metal, a wireless communication module substrate housed in the wireless communication unit case, and an antenna provided on the wireless communication module substrate. The wireless communication module substrate is fixed by a substrate fixing mechanism provided in the wireless communication unit case so as to be parallel to the sheet metal.
[0004] In the above conventional example, by arranging the wireless communication module substrate provided with the antenna with a space distance of 10 mm or more from the sheet metal of the lighting fixture, a space for the radio wave to wrap around the antenna is secured to improve the antenna characteristics.
Prior Art Documents
Patent Documents
[0005]
Patent Document 1
Summary of the Invention
Problems to be Solved by the Invention
[0006] By the way, in the conventional example described above, the lighting circuit and the wireless communication module are fixed to the sheet metal of the lighting fixture in a separate location, so the length of the wiring (wiring length) that electrically connects the lighting circuit and the wireless communication module is long.
[0007] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide a power supply device, a lighting device, and a lighting fixture that can shorten the wiring length. [Means for solving the problem]
[0008] A power supply device according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises a power supply unit, a wireless communication unit, and a mounting member. The power supply unit converts input power into power and outputs it to a load. The wireless communication unit has an antenna section that emits electromagnetic waves into space or receives electromagnetic waves from space, and a wireless circuit section that transmits or receives at least one of wireless signals using the electromagnetic waves as a medium via the antenna section. The power supply unit is mounted on the mounting member. The power supply unit is mounted on a second surface of the mounting member opposite to the first surface to which the load is mounted. The power supply unit comprises a power supply board on which a printed circuit for power conversion is formed, and a power supply case formed in the shape of a long box, housing the power supply board and being attached to the mounting member. The wireless communication unit comprises a circuit board on which the antenna section and the wireless circuit section are formed, and a case housing the circuit board and being coupled to the power supply case. The case is coupled to one end of the power supply case in the short direction.
[0009] A lighting device according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises a power supply unit and a light source that serves as the load for the power supply unit. The light source is mounted on a first surface of the mounting member. The power supply unit is mounted on a second surface of the mounting member opposite to the first surface.
[0010] A lighting device according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises a power supply unit, a light source that is the load of the power supply unit, and a light-transmitting cover that is attached to the mounting member so as to cover the light source. The light source is mounted on a first surface of the mounting member. The power supply unit is mounted on a second surface of the mounting member opposite to the first surface. A portion of the case is exposed to the outside of the cover.
[0011] A lighting fixture according to one aspect of this disclosure comprises a lighting device and a fixture body that supports the lighting device.
[0012] A lighting fixture according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises a lighting device and a fixture body that supports the lighting device. The lighting device comprises a power supply unit and a light source attached to the mounting member and powered by the power supply unit. The power supply unit is supported by the fixture body. [Effects of the Invention]
[0013] The power supply unit, lighting unit, and lighting fixture disclosed herein have the effect of shortening the wiring length. [Brief explanation of the drawing]
[0014] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a lighting fixture according to an embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of the same lighting fixture and a light source unit which is a lighting device according to the present disclosure. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a circuit block diagram of the same light source unit. [Figure 4] Figure 4A is a cross-sectional view of the same light source unit. Figure 4B is a cross-sectional view of the same light source unit. [Figure 5] Figure 5A is a horizontal cross-sectional view of the same light source unit. Figure 5B is a vertical cross-sectional view of the same light source unit. Figure 5C is a cross-sectional view of yet another structure of the same light source unit. [Figure 6]FIG. 6 is a front view of the power supply device in the fixture main body of the same lighting fixture and the same light source unit. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the main part of the same wireless communication unit. [Figure 8] FIG. 8A is a cross-sectional view of Modification Example 1 of the same power supply device. FIG. 8B is a longitudinal sectional view of Modification Example 1 of the same power supply device. FIG. 8C is a cross-sectional view of Modification Example 1 of the same power supply device. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a partially omitted cross-sectional view of Modification Example 2 of the same power supply device. [Figure 10] FIG. 10A is a cross-sectional view of the case of the wireless communication unit in Modification Example 3 of the same power supply device. FIG. 10B is a cross-sectional view of another case of the wireless communication unit in Modification Example 3 of the same power supply device. [Figure 11] FIG. 11A is a partially omitted bottom view of Modification Example 4 of the same power supply device. FIG. 11B is a partially omitted bottom view of Modification Example 4 of the same power supply device. FIG. 11C is a partially omitted bottom view of Modification Example 4 of the same power supply device. FIG. 11D is a partially omitted bottom view of Modification Example 4 of the same power supply device. FIG. 11E is a partially omitted bottom view of Modification Example 4 of the same power supply device. [Figure 12] FIG. 12A is a partially omitted bottom view of Modification Example 5 of the same power supply device. FIG. 12B is a partially omitted bottom view of Modification Example 5 of the same power supply device. [Figure 13] FIG. 13A is a longitudinal sectional view of Modification Example 6 of the same power supply device. FIG. 13B is a cross-sectional view of Modification Example 6 of the same power supply device. FIG. 13C is a cross-sectional view of the light source unit including Modification Example 6 of the same power supply device. [Figure 14] FIG. 14A is a cross-sectional view of Modification Example 7 of the same power supply device. FIG. 14B is a longitudinal sectional view of Modification Example 7 of the same power supply device. [Figure 15] FIG. 15A is a cross-sectional view of Modification Example 8 of the same power supply device. FIG. 15B is a cross-sectional view of Modification Example 8 of the same power supply device. [Figure 16]FIG. 16A is a cross-sectional view of Modification Example 9 of the power supply device described above. FIG. 16B is a cross-sectional view of Modification Example 9 of the power supply device described above. FIG. 16C is a cross-sectional view of Modification Example 9 of the power supply device described above. FIG. 16D is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of Modification Example 9 of the power supply device described above. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of a lighting fixture including Modification Example 10 of the power supply device described above. [Figure 18] FIG. 18A is a cross-sectional view of a lighting fixture including Modification Example 10 of the power supply device described above. FIG. 18B is a cross-sectional view of a lighting fixture including Modification Example 10 of the power supply device described above. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of a lighting fixture including Modification Example 11 of the power supply device described above. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of a lighting fixture including Modification Example 12 of the power supply device described above. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view of a lighting fixture including Modification Example 13 of the power supply device described above. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a lighting fixture according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is a plan view of a light source unit which is a lighting device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view of a lighting fixture according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.
Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention
[0015] Hereinafter, a power supply device, a lighting device, and a lighting fixture according to embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, each of the drawings described in the following embodiments is a schematic diagram, and the respective ratios of the sizes and thicknesses of the respective components do not necessarily reflect actual dimensional ratios. Note that 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 design and the like as long as the effects of the present disclosure can be achieved.
[0016] (1) Overview The power supply device E1 according to this embodiment comprises a power supply unit 2, a wireless communication unit C1, and a mounting member 4 (see Figure 2).
[0017] Power supply unit 2 converts the input power into power and outputs it to the load. The load is, for example, a light source for lighting, such as an LED. However, the load may also be a light source other than an LED, such as an organic electroluminescent element or a laser diode, or it may be something other than a light source.
[0018] The mounting member 4 has a second side (40B) to which the power supply unit 2 is attached, opposite to the first side 40A to which the load (light source) is attached. The power supply unit 2 has a power supply board 25 on which a printed circuit for power conversion is formed, and a power supply case 20 which is formed in a long box shape, houses the power supply board 25, and is attached to the mounting member 4. The power supply case 20 may be directly attached to the second side 40B of the mounting member 4. Alternatively, the power supply case 20 may be attached to the "second side" by being attached to a side plate 41 that protrudes perpendicularly to the second side 40B of the mounting member 4, as will be described later.
[0019] The wireless communication unit C1 includes an antenna section 31 and a wireless circuit section 30, a circuit board 32 on which the antenna section 31 and the wireless circuit section 30 are formed, and a case 33 that houses the circuit board (32) and is connected to the power supply case 20.
[0020] The antenna unit 31 emits electromagnetic waves into space or receives electromagnetic waves from space. The wireless circuit unit 30 transmits or receives wireless signals using electromagnetic waves as a medium via the antenna unit 31, or at least one of the latter. The circuit board 32 has the antenna unit 31 and the wireless circuit unit 30 formed on it. In this embodiment, the electromagnetic waves used by the wireless circuit unit 30 as a medium for wireless signals may be radio waves, or electromagnetic waves other than radio waves, such as infrared light and visible light.
[0021] The case 33 of the wireless communication unit C1 is coupled to one end of the power supply case 20 in the shorter direction. Therefore, the power supply device E1 according to this embodiment can shorten the wiring length for electrically connecting the wireless communication unit C1 and the power supply unit 2 compared to the conventional example described above. As a result, the power supply device E1 according to this embodiment can reduce noise leaking from the wiring and improve the workability of the wiring connection work. Moreover, since the power supply device E1 according to this embodiment couples the case 33 to one end of the power supply case 20 in the shorter direction, it can suppress an increase in the longitudinal dimensions compared to the case where the case 33 is coupled to one end of the power supply case 20 in the longitudinal direction.
[0022] Furthermore, the lighting device (light source unit A1) according to the embodiment includes a power supply device E1 according to the embodiment and a light source (LED module 1) which is the load of the power supply device E1 according to the embodiment. The light source (LED module 1) is mounted on the first surface of the mounting member 4. The power supply device E1 is mounted on the second surface of the mounting member 4 opposite to the first surface.
[0023] However, the lighting device according to this embodiment can shorten the wiring length.
[0024] Furthermore, the lighting fixture B1 relating to the actual pond plate comprises a lighting device (light source unit A1) according to the embodiment and a fixture body 9 that supports the lighting device (light source unit A1) according to the embodiment.
[0025] However, the lighting fixture B1 according to this embodiment can shorten the wiring length.
[0026] (2) Details (2-1) Lighting fixtures First, the lighting fixture B1 according to the embodiment (hereinafter referred to as lighting fixture B1) will be described.
[0027] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the lighting fixture B1 comprises a lighting device according to the embodiment, namely a light source unit A1 (hereinafter abbreviated as light source unit A1) and a fixture body 9 that supports the light source unit A1. The light source unit A1 is detachably attached to the fixture body 9 which is directly attached to the ceiling. However, the fixture body 9 may be embedded in the ceiling. Alternatively, the fixture body 9 may be directly attached to the wall or embedded in the wall.
[0028] The main body of the device 9 comprises a long, box-shaped housing section 90 with an open bottom, a pair of reflectors 91 projecting diagonally upward from the open edges on both sides along the longitudinal direction of the housing section 90, and a pair of end plates 92 provided at both ends of the housing section 90 and the pair of reflectors 91 in the longitudinal direction (see Figure 2). The housing section 90 and the pair of reflectors 91 are integrally formed by punching and bending metal plates.
[0029] The fixture body 9 is installed on the ceiling by inserting suspension bolts (not shown) through at least two of the multiple mounting holes 900 provided on the bottom surface of the housing 90, and tightening nuts (not shown) onto these suspension bolts. In addition, a power line is inserted through one of the multiple power supply holes 901 provided on the bottom surface of the housing 90. However, if multiple lighting fixtures B1 are installed, another power line for daisy-chaining may be inserted through a different power supply hole 901.
[0030] A terminal block 902 is mounted on the bottom surface of the housing 90. The terminal block 902 is electrically connected to the power cable 903. A power connector 904 is provided at the end of the power cable 903.
[0031] However, the power line inserted through the power hole 901 of the fixture body 9 is electrically connected to the terminal block 902, and via the terminal block 902, power cable 903, and power connector 904, it is electrically connected to the power unit 2 of the light source unit A1.
[0032] (2-2) Light source unit The light source unit A1 comprises an LED module 1, a power supply unit E1 according to this embodiment (hereinafter abbreviated as power supply unit E1), and a cover 7 (see Figure 2). In this embodiment, the mounting member 4, which is a component of the power supply unit E1, is also a component of the light source unit A1.
[0033] (2-2-1) LED module LED module 1 comprises a number of LEDs 10 and a substrate 11. The substrate 11 is formed in the shape of a long rectangular plate. The number of LEDs 10 are mounted in a single row at equal intervals along the longitudinal direction of the substrate 11, in the center of the short side on the surface (bottom surface) of the substrate 11 (see Figure 2).
[0034] (2-2-2) Mounting components The mounting member 4 is formed into a long, rectangular trough shape by processing a metal plate (for example, a steel plate). The mounting member 4 has a long, rectangular base plate 40 and a pair of side plates 41 that rise upward from both ends along the longitudinal direction of the base plate 40. The LED module 1 is attached to the lower surface (first surface 40A) of the base plate 40 by a plurality of claws 42 (see Figure 4A) cut out from the base plate 40. However, the mounting member 4 may be formed by extrusion molding of aluminum or an aluminum alloy, or it may be formed from a material other than a metal plate, for example, a synthetic resin.
[0035] (2-2-3) Cover The cover 7 is formed in a semi-cylindrical shape from a translucent synthetic resin such as acrylic resin or polycarbonate resin (see Figure 2). The cover 7 also has a pair of protruding walls 70 that project upward along its longitudinal direction. The cover 7 houses the mounting member 4 between the pair of protruding walls 70, and is attached to the mounting member 4 by hooking the hooks formed on the tips (upper ends) of the pair of protruding walls 70 onto the tips (upper ends) of the pair of side plates 41 of the mounting member 4. The cover 7 may also be made of inorganic glass such as quartz glass.
[0036] (2-2-4) Power supply device The power supply unit E1 comprises a power supply unit 2 and a wireless communication unit C1 (see Figure 2).
[0037] (2-2-4-1) Power supply unit The power supply unit 2 includes a lighting circuit 21 and a power supply case 20 that houses the lighting circuit 21 (see Figure 2).
[0038] The lighting circuit 21 includes a power supply board 25, which is a printed circuit board with conductors for wiring printed on a rectangular insulating substrate, and a plurality of circuit components 26 mounted on both the front and back surfaces of the power supply board 25 (see Figure 2). In other words, the lighting circuit 21 is composed of printed circuits.
[0039] Figure 3 shows the circuit configuration of the lighting circuit 21. The lighting circuit 21 includes a power conversion circuit 210, a constant current circuit 211, a control circuit 212, and the like.
[0040] The power conversion circuit 210 includes, for example, a rectifier circuit such as a diode bridge, a boost chopper circuit (power factor correction circuit), and the like. The power conversion circuit 210 converts AC power supplied from an external power supply P1 through the power supply terminal section 22 into DC power. The external power supply P1 is, for example, a commercial power grid that supplies AC voltage and AC current with an effective value of 100V or 200V. However, the power conversion circuit 210 may be equipped with a switching power supply circuit having a power factor correction function, such as a buck chopper circuit, a buck-boost chopper circuit, or a flyback converter, instead of a boost chopper circuit.
[0041] The constant current circuit 211 includes, for example, a buck converter. The constant current circuit 211 steps down the DC voltage output from the power conversion circuit 210 and applies it to the LED module 1, and also adjusts the DC current flowing through the LED module 1. However, the constant current circuit 211 may be equipped with various chopper circuits, series regulators, etc., instead of a buck converter.
[0042] The control circuit 212 includes, for example, a microcontroller. The control circuit 212 controls the power conversion circuit 210 to maintain its output voltage at a constant DC voltage. Furthermore, the control circuit 212 controls the step-down chopper circuit of the constant current circuit 211 to match the DC current supplied from the constant current circuit 211 to the LED module 1 to a target value. The control circuit 212 also changes the target value of the DC current supplied to the LED module 1 in response to a dimming signal received from the wireless communication unit C1 via the signal connector 5.
[0043] Here, the power terminal section 22 is mounted on one end of the power supply board 25 in the longitudinal direction (see Figure 2). In this embodiment, the power terminal section 22 is a connector to which the power connector 904 is detachably connected, but instead of the power connector 904, it may be a terminal block to which the conductors of an electric wire are electrically connected. Alternatively, the power terminal section may be an output wire drawn from the lighting circuit 21 and may be soldered to the conductor of the power cable 903. Note that the configuration of the power terminal section 22 also includes configurations other than those described above.
[0044] The power supply case 20 has a rectangular bottom wall 200 and a pair of first side walls 201 that protrude downward along the short direction of the bottom wall 200 from both ends in the longitudinal direction of the bottom wall 200 (see Figure 2). The power supply case 20 also has a pair of second side walls 202 that protrude downward along the longitudinal direction of the bottom wall 200 from both ends in the short direction of the bottom wall 200 (see Figures 4A and 4B). In other words, the power supply case 20 is formed in the shape of a long box with an opening 204 at the front (downward) of the bottom wall 200. The power supply case 20 also has a fixing piece 203 that protrudes outward from the tip of one of the second side walls 202 (see Figure 4A). The fixing piece 203 is formed in the shape of a trough.
[0045] The power supply case 20 houses the power supply board 25 such that the bottom wall 200 and the power supply board 25 are approximately parallel (see Figure 4A). The power supply case 20 has a plurality of claws 205 cut out from a pair of second side walls 202, and supports the power supply board 25 by sandwiching it between these claws 205. The socket for the power supply terminal section 22 protrudes outside the power supply case 20 through a window hole provided in one of the first side walls 201.
[0046] The power supply unit 2 is mounted on the upper surface (second surface) of the mounting member 4 of the light source unit A1 so that the opening 204 of the power supply case 20 faces the mounting member 4 (see Figure 4A). Specifically, the power supply case 20 is fixed to the mounting member 4 by screwing one of the second side walls 202 and the fixing piece 203 to each side plate 41 of the mounting member 4. However, the method of fixing the power supply case 20 to the mounting member 4 is not limited to screwing, and other appropriate fixing methods such as crimping can be used. Also, when mounted on the mounting member 4, the opening 204 of the power supply case 20 is closed by the bottom plate 40 of the mounting member 4.
[0047] (2-2-4-2) Wireless Communication Unit The wireless communication unit C1 comprises a wireless circuit section 30, an antenna section 31, a circuit board 32 on which the wireless circuit section 30 and the antenna section 31 are formed, and a case 33 that houses the circuit board 32 (see Figures 3-5). The circuit board 32 consists of a printed circuit board with wiring conductors printed on a rectangular insulating substrate (see Figures 4A and 4B). In other words, the wireless circuit section 30 is composed of a printed circuit. A plug 51 of the signal connector 5 is mounted on the end of the circuit board 32. The plug 51 mounted on the circuit board 32 and the connector 213 mounted on the power supply board 25 are mechanically and electrically connected via a cable 52 inserted through a hole provided in the bottom surface of the case 33 (see Figure 5). The shape of the circuit board 32 is not limited to a rectangle, but includes various shapes such as polygons other than rectangles, circles, etc.
[0048] The antenna unit 31 is configured to emit electromagnetic waves (for example, radio waves in the 920 MHz band or 2.4 GHz band) into space and to receive electromagnetic waves from space. The antenna unit 31 is a so-called pattern antenna, for example, formed from a conductor printed on a circuit board 32. However, the antenna unit 31 is not limited to a pattern antenna and may be a patch antenna (microstrip antenna), chip antenna, rod antenna, film antenna, etc.
[0049] Here, the mounting surface of the circuit board 32 is divided into a region where the antenna section 31 is provided (first region S1) and a region where the wireless circuit section 30 is mounted (second region S2) (see Figure 4B). The first region S1 and the second region S2 are regions obtained by dividing the mounting surface of the circuit board 32 along the shorter side.
[0050] The wireless circuit unit 30 extracts a wireless signal from the radio waves received by the antenna unit 31 and obtains control information from the wireless signal. Furthermore, the wireless circuit unit 30 converts the control information into a dimming signal and transmits the converted dimming signal to the lighting circuit 21 (control circuit 212) via the signal connector 5.
[0051] The lighting circuit 21 controls the LED module 1 by changing the target value of the DC current supplied from the control circuit 212 to the LED module 1 in response to a dimming signal received from the wireless communication unit C1, thereby causing the LED module 1 to blink (switch on and off) and dim. If the LED module 1 has multiple types of LEDs with different light colors, the lighting circuit 21 can also adjust the color of the light emitted from the LED module 1 (illumination light) by changing the target value of the DC current supplied to each color LED.
[0052] Case 33 is formed in a box shape from a synthetic resin such as polycarbonate resin (see Figures 4-5). However, part or all of case 33 may be made of metal. Case 33 has six walls 330. The first wall 330A is formed in a quadrangular shape in plan view and faces the sixth wall 330F. The second wall 330B, the third wall 330C, the fourth wall 330D, and the fifth wall 330E each protrude in the same direction from four sides of the first wall 330A and the sixth wall 330F, respectively, forming a rectangular tube. The second wall 330B and the third wall 330C face each other, and the fourth wall 330D and the fifth wall 330E face each other.
[0053] Case 33 has a support portion 335 that supports at least a portion of the first region S1 of the circuit board 32 within the case 33. The support portion 335 is composed of a pair of protruding walls that rise from the inner surface of the fifth wall 330E toward the fourth wall 330D (see Figures 4A and 4B). The pair of protruding walls are formed in the shape of a quadrangular plate. The pair of protruding walls face each other in parallel with a gap that is not less than the thickness of the circuit board 32 (see Figure 4A).
[0054] However, the support portion 335 supports the circuit board 32 by sandwiching at least a portion of the first region S1 between the pair of protruding walls. In other words, the circuit board 32 supported by the support portion 335 is housed in the case 33 in an upright position relative to the fifth wall 330E. There is a gap between the end face of the circuit board 32 supported by the support portion 335 and the inner surface of the fourth wall 330D that is sufficiently smaller than the height of the support portion 335 (the distance from the inner surface of the fifth wall 330E to the tip of the protruding wall) (see Figures 4A and 4B). In other words, the height dimension of the support portion 335 is greater than the distance between the circuit board 32 and the case 33 (the fourth wall 330D) in the height direction of the case 33. Therefore, even if the circuit board 32 moves in a direction toward the fourth wall 330D, there is no risk of it coming off the support portion 335. Furthermore, since the support portion 335 supports the circuit board 32 by sandwiching it from the thickness direction, damage to the circuit board 32 caused by the support portion 335 can be reduced.
[0055] Case 33 is joined to the power supply case 20 by appropriate methods such as screwing, crimping, hooking, or gluing.
[0056] (2-3) Installation of lighting fixtures Lighting fixture B1 is installed on the ceiling of the room using the following procedure.
[0057] First, the power wires drawn from the ceiling are routed through the power hole 901 of the fixture body 9 into the housing 90, and then the fixture body 9 is attached to the suspension bolts provided in the ceiling. Then, the power wires routed from the power hole 901 are electrically connected to the terminal block 902.
[0058] Next, after the power connector 904 of the power cable 903 is plugged into the power terminal section 22 of the power unit 2, the light source unit A1 is attached to the fixture body 9 so that the power unit 2 is housed in the housing section 90. Note that the mounting structure of the light source unit A1 to the fixture body 9 is conventionally known, so a detailed explanation and illustration are omitted.
[0059] The lighting fixture B1 is installed on the ceiling using the above procedure.
[0060] Here, the power supply case 20 of the power supply unit 2 houses the power terminal section 22 and the lighting circuit 21 arranged along the longitudinal direction of the power supply case 20, with the power terminal section 22 positioned at one end of the power supply case 20 in the longitudinal direction (see Figure 6). Therefore, when the light source unit A1 is attached to the fixture body 9, the power terminal section 22 can be positioned near the terminal block 902 attached to the housing section 90 of the fixture body 9 (see Figure 6), thereby shortening the power cable 903. Also, the power supply case 20 is positioned between the multiple mounting holes 900 provided in the housing section 90 (see Figure 6). Thus, the light source unit A1 can maintain a sufficient distance between the suspension bolts inserted through the mounting holes 900 of the fixture body 9 and the power supply case 20 (see Figure 6). As a result, the light source unit A1 can maintain a sufficient insulation distance between the suspension bolts and the power supply case 20.
[0061] (2-4) Operation of lighting fixtures The power lines connected to the terminal block 902 of the fixture body 9 are switched on and off by a switch installed on the wall of the room (hereinafter referred to as the wall switch). In other words, the lighting fixture B1 (light source unit A1) is switched alternately between the on state and the off state by operating the wall switch.
[0062] Furthermore, when the lighting fixture B1 (light source unit A1) is powered via a wall switch, it can be remotely controlled for flashing and dimming (or dimming and color adjustment) by a wireless signal transmitted from a remote controller (not shown, hereinafter referred to as "remote control").
[0063] The remote control, for example, accepts user input and generates control information corresponding to the received input. Furthermore, the remote control transmits a wireless signal containing the generated control information. The control information generated by the remote control includes instructions for switching the lighting fixture B1 (light source unit A1) on and off, and instructions for the dimming level.
[0064] The wireless signal transmitted from the remote control is received by the wireless communication unit C1 of the light source unit A1. The wireless communication unit C1 converts the control information contained in the wireless signal into a dimming signal and transmits the converted dimming signal to the lighting circuit 21 (control circuit 212) via the signal connector 5. The dimming signal corresponds to any value from 0% to 100%, with the rated light output of the light source unit A1 being 100%. However, when the control information is an instruction to switch from off to on, the dimming signal is set to 100%, and when the control information is an instruction to switch from on to off, the dimming signal is set to 0%.
[0065] The lighting circuit 21 controls the LED module 1 by changing the target value of the DC current supplied to the LED module 1 by the control circuit 212 in response to a dimming signal received from the wireless communication unit C1, thereby causing the LED module 1 to blink (switch between on and off) and dim (or change color). When the dimming signal is set to 0%, the control circuit 212 turns off the LED module 1 by stopping the power conversion circuit 210 and the constant current circuit 211.
[0066] Here, the sensitivity of the antenna unit 31 when receiving and transmitting radio waves is highest in the direction perpendicular to the surface (mounting surface) of the circuit board 32 on which the antenna unit 31 is formed (normal direction). In other words, since the wireless communication unit C1 is installed so that the normal direction of the circuit board 32 is approximately parallel to the ceiling surface, the range in which wireless signals transmitted from the remote control can be received can be extended in the direction parallel to the ceiling surface (horizontal direction). As a result, the light source unit A1 and the lighting fixture B1 can be remotely controlled (flashing, dimming, and color adjustment) to expand the range of remote control operation and improve usability.
[0067] Furthermore, the source of the wireless signal received by the wireless communication unit C1 is not limited to the remote control mentioned above. For example, it could be any device capable of transmitting wireless signals using electromagnetic waves such as radio waves, such as a wall switch with wireless communication capabilities, a smartphone, or a tablet PC. Alternatively, the wireless communication unit C1 can receive wireless signals relayed by a relay device that relays wireless signals transmitted from a remote control, or by a wireless communication unit with relay functionality installed in another lighting fixture. In other words, the light source unit A1 and the lighting fixture B1 can expand the range of wireless communication and improve usability.
[0068] By the way, since the mounting member 4 of the light source unit A1 is made of a metal material, the wireless signal (radio wave) that passes electromagnetically through the mounting member 4 and reaches the antenna unit 31 is attenuated. In particular, it is known that the attenuation of the wireless signal (radio wave) increases when the distance from the pattern-forming surface of the antenna unit 31 (the surface of the circuit board 32) to the mounting member 4 (side plate 41) is short. Therefore, it is desirable that the above distance be, for example, 4 mm or more. However, the lower limit of the above distance will vary depending on the magnitude of the radio wave output of the antenna unit 31, the frequency band of the radio wave, the type of material of the mounting member 4, the thickness of the mounting member 4, etc.
[0069] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 4A, the distance D1 from the circuit board 32 of the antenna unit 31 to the fixing piece 203 of the power supply case 20 is preferably 1 mm or more in order to suppress attenuation of the wireless signal (radio wave). However, the lower limit of the distance D1 varies depending on the magnitude of the radio wave output of the antenna unit 31, the frequency band of the radio wave, the type of material of the mounting member 4, the thickness of the mounting member 4, etc.
[0070] (2-5) Advantages of the Embodiment As described above, the power supply unit E1 connects the case 33 of the wireless communication unit C1 to one end of the power supply case 20 of the power supply unit 2 in the shorter direction, thus shortening the wiring length for electrically connecting the power supply unit 2 and the wireless communication unit C1. As a result, the power supply unit E1 can reduce noise leaking from the wiring and improve the workability of the wiring connection work. The wiring for electrically connecting the power supply unit 2 and the wireless communication unit C1 can be housed inside the power supply case 20 and case 33 (see Figures 5A and 5B). Therefore, the power supply unit E1 can prevent the wiring from being pinched between the mounting member 4 and the fixture body 9 when attaching the light source unit A1 to the fixture body 9. Furthermore, since the case 33 of the wireless communication unit C1 is connected to one end of the power supply case 20 in the shorter direction, the power supply unit E1 can be made smaller in the longitudinal direction of the power supply case 20. Furthermore, the power supply unit E1 houses the circuit board 32 in case 33 so that its thickness direction matches the short direction of the power supply case 20 (see Figure 4A). Therefore, the power supply unit E1 can be further miniaturized in the short-side direction of the power supply case 20. The circuit board 32 may also be housed in the case 33 with its thickness direction aligned with the long-side direction of the power supply case 20 (see Figure 5C).
[0071] Furthermore, since the circuit board 32 is positioned in the center of the width direction of the case 33 along the shorter side of the power supply case 20 (see Figure 4A), if the case 33 is made of metal, the distance (horizontal distance) between the side of the case 33 and the antenna section 31 becomes almost uniform. As a result, the power supply unit E1 can further improve wireless performance by suppressing radio wave attenuation caused by the case 33.
[0072] Incidentally, both the electromagnetic waves emitted from the antenna section 31 and the electromagnetic waves received by the antenna section 31 from space are strongest in the thickness direction of the circuit board 32. Therefore, by housing the circuit board 32 in the case 33 in a position where the surface on which the antenna section 31 is formed is tilted with respect to the second surface 40B of the mounting member 4 (the upper surface of the bottom plate 40), attenuation of electromagnetic waves by the metal mounting member 4 can be suppressed. Here, "tilted position with respect to the second surface 40B of the mounting member 4" means a position in which the surface on which the antenna section 31 of the circuit board 32 is formed is not parallel to the second surface 40B of the mounting member 4. Note that "tilted position" also includes a position in which the surface on which the antenna section 31 of the circuit board 32 is formed and the second surface 40B of the mounting member 4 are perpendicular.
[0073] However, the power supply unit E1 can improve wireless performance compared to the case where the circuit board 32 is housed in the case 33 with the surface on which the antenna section 31 is formed parallel to the second surface 40B of the mounting member 4. Furthermore, when the lighting fixture B1 is installed on the ceiling, the circuit board 32 is housed in the case 33 in an upright position (tilted at approximately 90 degrees) relative to the ceiling surface. Therefore, the lighting fixture B1 (power supply unit E1 and light source unit A1) can further improve wireless performance by horizontally expanding the range in which the antenna section 31 can receive electromagnetic waves (radio waves) of wireless signals.
[0074] Incidentally, a retaining portion 334 is provided on the outer surface of the fifth wall 330E of case 33 (see Figure 4B). The retaining portion 334 is formed in an L shape and protrudes from the outer surface of the fifth wall 330E (the surface facing the mounting member 4). The retaining portion 334 can hold the electric wire L1 (for example, an electric wire for supplying power from the power supply unit 2 to the LED module 1) by sandwiching it between itself and the fifth wall 330E. Thus, since the wireless communication unit C1 holds the electric wire L1 with the retaining portion 334 provided on case 33, the workability of the assembly work of the light source unit A1 can be improved. Note that the retaining portion 334 may also be, for example, a recess formed at the boundary between the second wall 330B or the third wall 330C and the fourth wall 330D (see Figure 7).
[0075] (3) Variant Next, several modifications of the power supply unit E1, light source unit A1, and lighting fixture B1 according to the embodiment will be described. However, the basic configuration of each modification described below is common to the power supply unit E1, light source unit A1, and lighting fixture B1 according to the embodiment. Therefore, in the description of each modification, components common to the power supply unit E1, light source unit A1, and lighting fixture B1 according to the embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals and will be omitted from the illustration and description as appropriate.
[0076] (3-1) Variation 1 The power supply unit E1 of the modified example 1 is characterized in that the circuit components constituting the antenna section 31 and the wireless circuit section 30 are mounted on both sides of the circuit board 32 of the wireless communication unit C1 (see Figure 8).
[0077] In Modification 1, the circuit board 32 of the wireless communication unit C1 is a double-sided printed circuit board, with multiple components 30B, including an integrated circuit 30A for wireless communication, mounted on one side (see Figures 8A and 8B), and other components mounted on the other side (see Figures 8B and 8C). The antenna section 31 is formed on both sides of the circuit board 32 (see Figures 8A and 8C). The antenna section 31 formed on both sides of the circuit board 32 is electrically connected via through-holes formed in the circuit board 32. However, the antenna section 31 formed on both sides of the circuit board 32 may be independent antennas that are not electrically connected via through-holes.
[0078] However, in the modified example 1, the power supply unit E1 can be miniaturized by using a double-sided printed circuit board 32.
[0079] (3-2) Modification 2 The power supply unit E1 of the modified example 2 is characterized in that the circuit board 32 is located at one end of the case 33 in the width direction along the short side of the power supply case 20 (see Figure 9).
[0080] In the modified example 2, the support portion 335 that supports the circuit board 32 is composed of a single protruding wall that rises from the inner surface of the fifth wall 330E parallel to the second wall 330B (or third wall 330C) of the case 33. The protruding wall (support portion 335) faces the second wall 330B at a distance not less than the thickness of the circuit board 32. The support portion 335 supports the circuit board 32 by sandwiching at least a portion of the first region S1 between the protruding wall and the wall of the case 33 (second wall 330B).
[0081] The case 33 of the wireless communication unit C1 faces the substrate 11 of the LED module 1 across the mounting member 4, and a conductor is formed on the surface (bottom surface) of the substrate 11 to electrically connect multiple LEDs 10.
[0082] However, in the modified example E1, the antenna unit 31 (circuit board 32) is positioned so as not to overlap in the vertical direction (thickness direction of the bottom plate 40 of the mounting member 4) with the region S3 on the surface of the substrate 11 where the wiring conductors are formed. As a result, the modified example E1 can suppress the attenuation of radio waves caused by the conductors of the LED module 1 and further improve wireless performance.
[0083] (3-3) Modified example 3 The power supply unit E1 of the modified example 3 is characterized in that an opening is provided in the case 33 of the wireless communication unit C1, and that it has a cover to close the opening.
[0084] As shown in Figure 10A, a flat lid 338A is rotatably attached to the peripheral edge of the opening of the case 33. After the circuit board 32 is housed inside the case 33 from the opening, the lid 338A is rotated to a position that closes the opening of the case 33. Preferably, the lid 338A is fixed to the case 33 in the position that closes the opening of the case 33.
[0085] Alternatively, as shown in Figure 10B, a projection 3380 is provided on a flat plate-shaped lid 338B, and the lid 338B is attached to the case 33 by inserting the projection 3380 into the opening surface of the case 33. Preferably, the lid 338B is fixed to the case 33 in a state that closes the opening surface of the case 33.
[0086] However, in the modified example 3, the power supply unit E1 has its opening in the case 33 of the wireless communication unit C1 covered with lids 338A and 338B, thus preventing foreign matter from entering the case 33 even before it is attached to the power supply case 20.
[0087] (3-4) Modification 4 The power supply unit E1 of the modified example 4 is characterized by having a hole 46 that penetrates from the second surface 40B to the first surface 40A at a position opposite the antenna portion 31 of the mounting member 4 (see Figure 11).
[0088] The hole 46 is formed in a rectangular shape (see Figures 11A-11C). The rectangular hole 46 is formed to be larger than the thickness and width of the circuit board 32 (see Figure 11A). However, the rectangular hole 46 may be formed to be larger than the thickness of the circuit board 32 and smaller than its width (see Figure 11B). Alternatively, the rectangular hole 46 may be formed so that its longitudinal direction is parallel to the thickness direction of the circuit board 32 (see Figure 11C).
[0089] Furthermore, the hole 46 may be formed in a circular shape (see Figures 11D and 11E). There may be one circular hole 46 (see Figure 11D) or multiple circular holes 46 (see Figure 11E). Preferably, the diameter of the circular hole 46 is larger than the thickness of the circuit board 32 and smaller than the width of the circuit board 32. The hole 46 may be covered by the substrate 11 of the LED module 1 on the first surface 40A of the mounting member 4. If the substrate 11 is made of an electrically insulating material such as synthetic resin, radio waves (electromagnetic waves) passing through the hole 46 can pass through the substrate 11 with almost no attenuation. By covering the hole 46 with the substrate 11, it is possible to prevent foreign objects from entering the lower side of the mounting member 4 through the hole 46. It is preferable to prevent insects from entering by covering the hole 46 with a material made of a material that can transmit electromagnetic waves to the same extent as or greater than the material that forms the case 33, for example, with synthetic resin tape.
[0090] However, in the modified example 4, the power supply unit E1 has a hole 46 that penetrates the mounting member 4, positioned opposite the antenna portion 31 of the mounting member 4. As a result, electromagnetic wave attenuation is suppressed by passing through the hole 46. Consequently, the power supply unit E1 in the modified example 4 can improve the sensitivity (wireless performance) of electromagnetic wave transmission or reception in the wireless communication unit C1.
[0091] (3-5) Modification 5 The power supply unit E1 of the modified example 5 is characterized by having a hole 46 that penetrates from the second surface 40B to the first surface 40A at a position that does not face the antenna portion 31 of the mounting member 4 (see Figure 12).
[0092] The hole 46 may be formed in a rectangular shape (see Figure 12A) or a circular shape (see Figure 12B). Also, there may be one hole 46 (see Figure 12A) or multiple holes 46 (see Figure 12B). The hole 46 may be covered by the substrate 11 of the LED module 1 on the first surface 40A of the mounting member 4. If the substrate 11 is made of an electrically insulating material such as synthetic resin, radio waves (electromagnetic waves) passing through the hole 46 can pass through the substrate 11 with almost no attenuation. By covering the hole 46 with the substrate 11, it is possible to prevent foreign objects from entering the lower side of the mounting member 4 through the hole 46. It is preferable to prevent insects from entering by covering the hole 46 with a material made of a material that can transmit electromagnetic waves to the same extent as or greater than the material that forms the case 33, for example, with synthetic resin tape.
[0093] However, in the power supply unit E1 of Modified Example 5, as with the power supply unit E1 of Modified Example 4, electromagnetic wave attenuation is suppressed by passing through the hole 46, thus improving the sensitivity (wireless performance) of electromagnetic wave transmission or reception in the wireless communication unit C1. However, since the hole 46 of the power supply unit E1 of Modified Example 5 is provided in a position that does not face the antenna portion 31 of the mounting member 4, the degree of improvement in wireless performance may be slightly lower compared to the power supply unit E1 of Modified Example 4.
[0094] (3-6) Modification 6 The power supply unit E1 of the modified example 6 is characterized by the mounting structure of the case 33 of the wireless communication unit C1 to the mounting member 4.
[0095] In the power supply unit E1 of the modified example 6, the mounting member 4 has a hole 46 through which a part of the case 33 is inserted (see Figures 13A and 13B). The hole 46 penetrates the bottom plate 40 of the mounting member 4 in an area where the LED module 1 is not present (see Figure 13B).
[0096] The circuit board 32 is formed in a T-shape when viewed from the thickness direction (see Figure 13A). The case 33 has a housing projection 34 that protrudes from the fifth wall 330E and accommodates a portion of the circuit board 32. The internal space of the housing projection 34 penetrates the fifth wall 330E and connects to the internal space of the case 33.
[0097] A portion of the circuit board 32 housed in the housing projection 34 is the T-shaped leg portion, which includes the first region S1 where the antenna portion 31 is formed (see Figure 13A). The circuit board 32 is supported by the case 33 when the T-shaped leg portion is housed in the housing projection 34.
[0098] The case 33 is attached to the power supply case 20 with the housing projection 34 inserted through the hole 46 (see Figures 13A and 13B). In other words, the antenna portion 31 of the wireless communication unit C1 protrudes downward from the bottom plate 40 through the hole 46. The housing projection 34 that protrudes downward from the bottom plate 40 may be housed inside the cover 7. However, as shown in Figure 13C, the housing projection 34 that protrudes downward from the bottom plate 40 may be exposed outside the cover 7.
[0099] However, in the modified example 6, the power supply unit E1 has the antenna section 31 inserted through the hole 46 of the mounting member 4 and exposed below the mounting member 4, so that electromagnetic waves emitted from or received by the antenna section 31 are less likely to be attenuated by the metal mounting member 4. As a result, the power supply unit E1 of the modified example 6 can improve the sensitivity (wireless performance) of electromagnetic wave transmission or reception in the wireless communication unit C1.
[0100] (3-7) Modification 7 The power supply unit E1 (wireless communication unit C1) of the modified example 7 is characterized by having a restricting part 336 in the case 33 that restricts the movement of the circuit board 32 relative to the support part 335 (see Figures 14A and 14B).
[0101] The restricting portion 336 is provided on the side of one of the pair of protruding walls that make up the support portion 335, the one that faces the non-mounting surface of the circuit board 32 (the surface of the circuit board 32 on which the antenna portion 31 is not formed; hereinafter referred to as the back surface) (see Figure 14A). The restricting portion 336 is formed in a shape resembling a triangular pyramid attached to the front end of a triangular prism, and protrudes from the side of the protruding wall toward the back surface of the circuit board 32. As a result of providing the restricting portion 336, the gap between the pair of protruding walls that make up the support portion 335 is partially narrowed. Therefore, the end of the circuit board 32 is pressed between the restricting portion 336 and the other protruding wall (the protruding wall on which the restricting portion 336 is not provided), and the movement of the circuit board 32 supported by the support portion 335 is restricted by the restricting portion 336. Furthermore, because the front end of the restricting portion 336 is formed in a triangular pyramidal shape, there is an advantage in that when the end of the circuit board 32 is inserted, the tip of the circuit board 32 in the insertion direction is less likely to get caught on the tip of the restricting portion 336.
[0102] The restricting portion 336 may be provided on the side surface of the protruding wall facing the mounting surface (front surface) of the circuit board 32. In this case, it is preferable that the restricting portion 336 be formed in contact with the area in the first region S1 of the circuit board 32 where the antenna portion 31 is not formed. However, if the antenna portion 31 of the first region S1 is protected by resist, the restricting portion 336 may be formed in contact with the area in the first region S1 where the antenna portion 31 is formed.
[0103] (3-8) Variation 8 The power supply unit E1 (wireless communication unit C1) of the modified example 8 is characterized in that the case 33 has a plurality of support parts 335, each capable of supporting a circuit board 32 (see Figures 15A and 15B). In the wireless communication unit C1 of the modified example 8, three sets of protruding walls protrude from the inner surface of the fifth wall 330E. Each pair of protruding walls in each set constitutes one support part 335. However, the heights of the three sets of protruding walls may all be the same, or the height of at least one set of protruding walls may differ from the heights of the other sets of protruding walls.
[0104] The circuit board 32 is supported by one of the three support parts 335 selected from among them. For example, when the wireless communication unit C1 is placed between a pair of side plates 41 of the mounting member 4, it is preferable to support the circuit board 32 on the central support part 335 such that the distance between each side plate 41 and the circuit board 32 is maximized (see Figure 15A). Also, when the side plates 41 of the mounting member 4 are provided on only one side of the bottom plate 40, it is preferable to support the circuit board 32 on the support part 335 furthest from the side plate 41 (see Figure 15B).
[0105] However, in the modified example 8, the power supply unit E1 allows the position of the circuit board 32 inside the case 33 to be changed to match the shape of the mounting member 4 of the light source unit A1, thus enabling a reduction in manufacturing costs through the standardization of parts.
[0106] (3-9) Modification 9 The lighting device (light source unit A1) of the modified example 9 is characterized by having a hole 340 that connects the inside and outside of the case 33 (see Figure 16).
[0107] The hole 340 is provided, for example, on the side of the housing projection 34 (see Figure 16A). Preferably, the antenna portion 31 of the first region S1 of the circuit board 32 is exposed outside the housing projection 34 through the hole 340.
[0108] Furthermore, the hole 340 may be provided on the bottom surface of the housing projection 34 (see Figure 16B). In addition, a part of the circuit board 32 on which the antenna portion 31 is formed may protrude outside the housing projection 34 through the hole 340 on the bottom surface of the housing projection 34 (see Figure 16C).
[0109] However, by allowing electromagnetic waves to pass through the hole 340 in case 33, attenuation of electromagnetic waves can be suppressed compared to when they pass through the wall other than the hole 340. As a result, the light source unit A1 of modified example 9 can improve the sensitivity of electromagnetic wave transmission or reception by the wireless communication unit C1. The hole 340 may be covered with a member made of a material that allows electromagnetic waves to pass through (for example, synthetic resin). This prevents foreign matter from entering the case 33.
[0110] (3-10) Variation 10 The power supply unit E1 of the modified example 10 is characterized by the orientation (posture) of the circuit board 32 housed within the case 33 of the wireless communication unit C1 (see Figure 17).
[0111] In the modified example 10 power supply unit E1, the circuit board 32 is housed in the case 33 in an orientation (posture) such that its thickness direction coincides with the thickness direction (vertical direction) of the bottom plate 40 of the mounting member 4 (see Figure 17). However, it is preferable that the surface on which the antenna portion 31 is formed of the circuit board 32 faces the bottom plate 40 of the mounting member 4. The circuit board 32 is supported by a pair of support portions 335 that protrude from the first wall 330A and the sixth wall 330F of the case 33, respectively.
[0112] Furthermore, the distance between the fifth wall 330E of the case 33 and the circuit board 32 is preferably 4 mm or more. As shown in Figure 15A, the height of the case 33 may be reduced by bringing the circuit board 32 closer to the bottom plate 40. Alternatively, the height of the case 33 can be further reduced by orienting the surface (mounting surface) of the circuit board 32 so that the surface on which the antenna portion 31 is not formed is facing upwards (see Figure 15B).
[0113] However, in the modified example 10, the power supply unit E1 houses the circuit board 32 in the case 33 in an orientation (posture) such that its thickness direction matches the thickness direction of the bottom plate 40 of the mounting member 4, thus enabling a thinner wireless communication unit C1.
[0114] (3-11) Variation 11 The power supply unit E1 of the modified example 11 is characterized in that a portion of the case 33 is housed inside the power supply case 20 (see Figure 19).
[0115] In other words, a groove (notch) is provided in the lower part of the second side wall 202 of the power supply case 20, and a part of the case 33 is housed inside the power supply case 20 through this groove (see Figure 19). However, a part of the case 33 may also be housed inside the power supply case 20 through a hole that penetrates the second side wall 202.
[0116] However, in the modified example 11, since a portion of the case 33 is housed inside the power supply case 20, the wiring length can be further shortened, and the dimensions of the power supply case 20 along its shorter side can be reduced.
[0117] (3-12) Variation 12 The lighting fixture B1 of the modified example 12 is characterized by exposing a portion of the case 33 of the wireless communication unit C1 to the outside of the fixture body 9 (see Figure 20).
[0118] In other words, through holes are provided in one side of the housing section 90 of the device body 9 along the longitudinal direction and in the reflector 91 facing that side, and a part of the case 33 is exposed to the outside of the device body 9 (outside the reflector 91) through these through holes. The configuration of the wireless communication unit C1 is the same as the configuration of the wireless communication unit C1 in modified example 11.
[0119] However, in the modified example 12, the lighting fixture B1 exposes a portion of the case 33 of the wireless communication unit C1 to the outside of the fixture body 9, thereby suppressing radio wave attenuation caused by the metal fixture body 9 and further improving wireless performance.
[0120] (3-13) Variation 13 The power supply unit E1 in modified example 13 is characterized in that, in modified example 10, the antenna portion 31 is formed on a separate board (antenna board 35) from the circuit board 32, and a part of the antenna portion 31 is inserted through a hole 46 provided in the mounting member 4.
[0121] As shown in Figure 21, the antenna section 31 (antenna substrate 35) is housed in the case 33 in an upright position, protruding downward from the edge on the surface (bottom surface) of the circuit board 32. However, the case 33 has a housing projection 34 that houses a part of the antenna substrate 35 and protrudes downward, with a part of the antenna section 31 (antenna substrate 35) housed within the housing projection 34.
[0122] The hole 46 is provided at one end of the bottom plate 40 of the mounting member 4 in the shorter direction. The case 33 is then connected to the power supply case 20 with the housing projection 34 inserted through the hole 46 (see Figure 21). In other words, the antenna portion 31 of the wireless communication unit C1 protrudes downward from the bottom plate 40 through the hole 46.
[0123] However, in the modified example 13, the power supply unit E1 has the antenna section 31 inserted through the hole 46 of the mounting member 4 and exposed below the mounting member 4, so that electromagnetic waves emitted from or received by the antenna section 31 are less likely to be attenuated by the metal mounting member 4. As a result, the power supply unit E1 of the modified example 13 can improve the sensitivity (wireless performance) of electromagnetic wave transmission or reception in the wireless communication unit C1.
[0124] (3-14) Modification 14 The power supply unit E1 of the modified example 14 is characterized in that the wireless communication unit C1 not only receives wireless signals containing information related to the lighting control of the LED module 1, but also receives and transmits wireless signals containing other information.
[0125] For example, the wireless communication unit C1 may transmit a wireless signal containing information regarding the usage status of the light source unit A1. This information regarding the usage status of the light source unit A1 may include, for example, the time (date) when use began, the cumulative lighting time, the occurrence of an abnormality in the power supply unit E1 or LED module 1, the diagnostic result of the lifespan of the power supply unit E1 or LED module 1, the time period during which it was lit, and the power consumption. Alternatively, the wireless communication unit C1 may transmit a wireless signal containing detection information from sensors provided on the light source unit A1 or the fixture body 9. This sensor detection information may include, for example, detection information of the presence or absence of a person by a motion sensor, or detection information of brightness (illuminance) by a brightness sensor. Alternatively, the wireless communication unit C1 may transmit a wireless signal containing identification information for the light source unit A1. This identification information may include the manufacturing lot number of the light source unit A1, the model number corresponding to the type of light source unit A1, and so on.
[0126] The various types of information mentioned above (information other than information related to lighting control) may be used to link lighting fixture B1 with other devices. Other devices linked with lighting fixture B1 include, for example, television receivers, audio equipment such as wireless speakers or smart speakers, air conditioning and air quality equipment such as air conditioners and air purifiers, security equipment, and disaster prevention equipment.
[0127] (4) Another embodiment The lighting device (light source unit A2) and lighting fixture B2 according to the embodiment described below (hereinafter referred to as Embodiment 2) differ in shape from the lighting device (light source unit A1) and lighting fixture B1 according to the embodiment described so far (hereinafter referred to as Embodiment 1). That is, both the light source unit A1 and lighting fixture B1 according to Embodiment 1 are formed in an elongated shape when viewed from above. In contrast, both the light source unit A2 and lighting fixture B2 according to Embodiment 2 are formed in a substantially square shape when viewed from above.
[0128] The lighting fixture B2 comprises a light source unit A2 and a fixture body 9B that supports the light source unit A2.
[0129] (4-1) Main body of the device As shown in Figure 22, the main body of the device 9B has a rectangular parallelepiped housing section 93 with an open bottom and a pyramidal truncated reflecting member 94 with two open bottom surfaces. The housing section 93 is connected to the upper end of the reflecting member 94.
[0130] (4-2) Light source unit The light source unit A2 comprises an LED module, a power supply unit E2 including a mounting member 4B to which the LED module is attached, a cover 7B attached to the mounting member 4B so as to cover the LED module, and two mounting fixtures 95 (see Figures 22 and 23).
[0131] Although not shown in the diagram, the LED module is constructed by mounting numerous LEDs vertically and horizontally on the mounting surface (bottom surface) of a square-shaped circuit board.
[0132] The mounting member 4B comprises a square-shaped mounting plate 400B and four side plates that protrude downward from the periphery (four sides) of the mounting plate 400B. However, it is preferable that the mounting plate 400B and the four side plates are integrally formed by bending a metal plate material. The LED module is attached to the lower surface of the mounting plate 400B by an appropriate method such as screw fastening.
[0133] The two mounting fixtures 95 have the same configuration. Each mounting fixture 95 includes a mounting spring 950 and a mounting bracket 951 for attaching the mounting spring 950 to the mounting plate 400B (see Figure 23). The two mounting springs 950 are attached, one to the center of each of two opposing sides on the upper surface of the mounting plate 400B, by the corresponding mounting brackets 951.
[0134] As shown in Figure 22, the cover 7B has a square-shaped bottom portion 71 and peripheral wall portions 72 that rise upward from the periphery (four sides) of the bottom portion 71. The bottom portion 71 and the peripheral wall portions 72 are integrally formed from a translucent synthetic resin material such as acrylic resin or polycarbonate resin. Preferably, the surface of the cover 7B is configured to diffuse light by a textured finish or by incorporating a diffusing agent.
[0135] The cover 7B is attached to the mounting member 4B such that the upper end of the peripheral wall portion 72 fits inside the mounting member 4B (see Figure 22).
[0136] The power supply unit E2 comprises a power supply unit 2B and a wireless communication unit C2. The power supply unit 2B includes a power supply board 25B that constitutes a lighting circuit, a power supply case 20B that houses the power supply board 25B, and the like. The power supply case 20B is formed in the shape of a long box from a metal plate (see Figure 23). The power supply case 20B is attached to the top surface of the mounting plate 400B of the mounting member 4B (see Figure 23). However, the power supply unit E2 may have a configuration common to any of the embodiments 1 and their modified examples 1-14 described above.
[0137] The wireless communication unit C2 includes a circuit board and a case 33B that houses the circuit board. The case 33B is formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape from a synthetic resin material (see Figure 23). The case 33B of the wireless communication unit C1 is coupled to one end of the power supply case 20B in the short direction.
[0138] As described above, the light source unit A2 is detachably attached to the fixture body 9B by two mounting fixtures 95 with the mounting member 4B housed in the housing section 90 of the fixture body 9B (see Figure 22).
[0139] The lighting device (light source unit A2) and lighting fixture B2 according to Embodiment 2 can shorten the wiring length, similar to the lighting device (light source unit A1) and lighting fixture B1 according to Embodiment 1.
[0140] (4-3) Embodiment 3 In all of the lighting devices (light source units A1, A2) and lighting fixtures B1, B2 according to the above-described embodiments 1 and 2, power supply units E1 and E2 are attached to the mounting member 4.
[0141] In contrast, the lighting device (light source unit A3) and lighting fixture B3 according to Embodiment 3 have the power supply unit E1 attached to the fixture body 9C, as shown in Figure 24. Although not shown in the illustration, the lighting device (light source unit A2) and lighting fixture B2 according to Embodiment 2 may also have the power supply unit E2 attached to the fixture body 9B.
[0142] In the lighting device (light source unit A3) and lighting fixture B3 according to Embodiment 3, the wireless communication units C1 and C2 can be miniaturized, similar to the lighting devices (light source units A1 and A2) and lighting fixtures B1 and B2 according to Embodiments 1 and 2.
[0143] (5) Summary A power supply device (E1;E2) according to a first aspect of this disclosure comprises a power supply unit (2;2B), a wireless communication unit (C1;C2), and a mounting member (4;4B). The power supply unit (2;2B) converts input power into power and outputs it to a load (LED module 1). The wireless communication unit (C1;C2) has an antenna section (31) and a wireless circuit section (30). The antenna section (31) emits electromagnetic waves into space or receives electromagnetic waves from space. The wireless circuit section (30) transmits or receives at least one of wireless signals using electromagnetic waves as a medium via the antenna section (31). The power supply unit (2;2B) is attached to the mounting member (4;4B). The power supply unit (2;2B) is attached to the second side (40B) of the mounting member (4;4B) opposite to the first side (40A) to which the load is attached. The power supply unit (2;2B) comprises a power supply board (25;25B) and a power supply case (20;20B). The power supply board (25;25B) has printed circuits for power conversion formed on it. The power supply case (20;20B) is formed in a long box shape and houses the power supply board (25;25B) and is attached to a mounting member (4;4B). The wireless communication unit (C1;C2) comprises a circuit board (32) on which an antenna section (31) and a wireless circuit section (30) are formed, and a case (33;33B) that houses the circuit board (32) and is coupled to the power supply case (20;20B). The case (33;33B) is coupled to one end of the power supply case (20;20B) in the shorter direction.
[0144] In the power supply device (E1;E2) according to the first embodiment, a case (33;33B) is coupled to one end of the power supply case (20;20B) in the shorter direction, so that the length of the wiring that electrically connects the circuit board (32) and the power supply board (25;25B) can be shortened.
[0145] A power supply device (E1; E2) according to a second aspect of the present disclosure can be realized in combination with the first aspect. In the power supply device (E1; E2) according to the second aspect, it is preferable that the circuit board (32) is housed in a case (33; 33B) in a position in which the surface on which the antenna portion (31) is formed is tilted with respect to the second surface (40B) of the mounting member (4; 4B).
[0146] The power supply device (E1; E2) according to the second embodiment can improve wireless performance by suppressing the attenuation of electromagnetic waves by the mounting members (4; 4B).
[0147] A power supply device (E1; E2) according to a third aspect of the present disclosure can be realized in combination with the first or second aspect. In the power supply device (E1; E2) according to the third aspect, the mounting member (4; 4B) preferably has a hole (46) that penetrates from the second surface (40B) to the first surface (40A).
[0148] In the third embodiment, the power supply device (E1; E2) can further improve wireless performance because electromagnetic wave attenuation is suppressed by passing through the hole (46).
[0149] A power supply device (E1; E2) according to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure can be realized in combination with a third aspect. In the power supply device (E1; E2) according to the fourth aspect, it is preferable that a part of the case (33) that houses the portion of the circuit board (32) on which the antenna portion (31) is formed (first region S1) (housing projection 34) protrudes from the first surface (40A) of the mounting member (4; 4B) through a hole (46).
[0150] The power supply device (E1; E2) according to the fourth embodiment makes it less likely for electromagnetic waves emitted from the antenna unit (31) or electromagnetic waves received by the antenna unit (31) to be attenuated by the mounting member (4; 4B), thereby improving the sensitivity (wireless performance) of electromagnetic wave transmission or reception in the wireless communication unit (C1; C2).
[0151] A power supply unit (E1; E2) according to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure can be realized in combination with any of the first to fourth aspects. In the power supply unit (E1; E2) according to the fifth aspect, the circuit board (32) is preferably housed in the case (33) such that its thickness direction coincides with the short side direction of the power supply case (20; 20B).
[0152] The power supply unit (E1; E2) according to the fifth embodiment can reduce the width dimension of the power supply case (20; 20B) along the shorter side.
[0153] A power supply unit (E1;E2) according to a sixth aspect of this disclosure can be realized in combination with a fifth aspect. In the power supply unit (E1;E2) according to the sixth aspect, the circuit board (32) is preferably located in the center of the width direction of the case (33) along the short side direction of the power supply case (20;20B).
[0154] The power supply device (E1; E2) according to the sixth embodiment can further improve wireless performance by suppressing the attenuation of electromagnetic waves caused by electromagnetic barriers (a pair of side plates 41 of the mounting member 4) when electromagnetic barriers (a pair of side plates 41 of the mounting member 4) are present on both sides in the short direction of the power supply case (20; 20B).
[0155] A power supply unit (E1;E2) according to a seventh aspect of this disclosure can be realized in combination with a fifth aspect. In the power supply unit (E1;E2) according to the seventh aspect, the circuit board (32) is preferably located at one end in the width direction of the case (33) along the short side of the power supply case (20;20B).
[0156] The power supply device (E1; E2) according to the seventh embodiment can achieve further improvement in wireless performance.
[0157] A power supply unit (E1; E2) according to the eighth aspect of this disclosure can be realized in combination with any of the first to fourth aspects. In the power supply unit (E1; E2) according to the eighth aspect, the circuit board (32) is preferably housed in the case (33) such that its thickness direction coincides with the longitudinal direction of the power supply case (20; 20B).
[0158] The power supply unit (E1; E2) according to the eighth embodiment can shorten the width dimension of the case (33) along the longitudinal direction of the power supply case (20; 20B).
[0159] A power supply unit (E1;E2) according to the ninth aspect of this disclosure can be realized in combination with any of the first to eighth aspects. In the power supply unit (E1;E2) according to the ninth aspect, it is preferable that the case (33) has an opening on the side facing the power supply case (20;20B) when mounted on the power supply case (20;20B).
[0160] The power supply unit (E1; E2) according to the ninth embodiment allows the opening of the case (33) to be closed with the power supply case (20; 20B), thereby improving the workability of the assembly process.
[0161] A power supply unit (E1; E2) according to a tenth aspect of the present disclosure can be realized in combination with any of the first to ninth aspects. Preferably, the power supply unit (E1; E2) according to the tenth aspect further has a power terminal section (22) that is electrically connected to an external power supply (P1). Preferably, the power terminal section (22) is located at one end in the longitudinal direction of a power supply case (20; 20B).
[0162] The power supply unit (E1; E2) according to the tenth embodiment can shorten the wiring length inside the power supply case (20; 20B).
[0163] A power supply device (E1; E2) according to an eleventh aspect of the present disclosure can be realized by combining it with the first aspect. In the power supply device (E1; E2) according to the eleventh aspect, it is preferable that the circuit board (32) is housed in the case (33) such that its thickness direction is aligned with the thickness direction of the mounting member (4; 4B).
[0164] The power supply device (E1; E2) according to the 11th embodiment can be made smaller in dimensions along the thickness direction of the mounting member (4; 4B).
[0165] A power supply unit (E1;E2) according to a twelfth aspect of this disclosure can be realized in combination with an eleventh aspect. In the power supply unit (E1;E2) according to the twelfth aspect, it is preferable that a part of the case (33) is housed in a power supply case (20;20B).
[0166] The power supply unit (E1; E2) according to the twelfth embodiment can be made smaller in dimensions along the shorter side of the power supply case (20; 20B).
[0167] A lighting device (light source unit A1; A2) according to a thirteenth aspect of this disclosure comprises a power supply unit (E1; E2) according to any of the first to twelfth aspects, and a light source (LED module 1) which is a load for the power supply unit (E1; E2). The light source is mounted on the first surface of a mounting member (4; 4B). The power supply unit (E1; E2) is mounted on the second surface of the mounting member (4; 4B) opposite to the first surface.
[0168] The lighting device according to the 13th embodiment can shorten the wiring length.
[0169] A lighting device according to a fourteenth aspect of this disclosure comprises a power supply unit (E1; E2) according to a fourth aspect, a light source (LED module 1) which is a load for the power supply unit (E1; E2), and a light-transmitting cover (7) which is attached to a mounting member (4; 4B) so as to cover the light source. The light source is attached to the first surface (40A) of the mounting member (4; 4B). The power supply unit (E1; E2) is attached to the second surface (40B) of the mounting member (4; 4B) opposite to the first surface (40A). A part of the case (33) (housing projection 34) is exposed to the outside of the cover (7).
[0170] The lighting device according to the 14th embodiment can shorten the wiring length.
[0171] A lighting fixture (B1; B2) according to a 15th aspect of the present disclosure comprises a lighting device according to any of the first to 13 aspects, and a fixture body (9; 9B) supporting the lighting device according to any of the first to 13 aspects.
[0172] The lighting fixtures (B1; B2) according to the 15th embodiment can shorten the wiring length.
[0173] A lighting fixture (B3) according to the sixteenth aspect of this disclosure comprises a lighting device (light source unit A3) and a fixture body (9C) that supports the lighting device. The lighting device comprises a power supply unit (E1; E2) and a light source (LED module 1) attached to a mounting member (4) and powered by the power supply unit (E1; E2). The power supply unit (E1; E2) is supported by the fixture body (9C).
[0174] The lighting fixture (B3) according to the 16th embodiment can shorten the wiring length. [Explanation of symbols]
[0175] A1; A2 Light source unit (lighting device) B1;B2 Lighting equipment C1;C2 Wireless Communication Unit E1;E2 Power supply 1 LED module (light source) 2; 2B Power Supply Unit 4;4B Mounting component 9;9B Main body of the device 20;20B Power Supply Case 25;25B Power supply board 30 Radio circuit section 31 Antenna section 32 Circuit boards 33;33B Case 34. Retaining protrusion 46 holes
Claims
1. A power supply unit that converts input power into power and outputs it to the load, A wireless communication unit having an antenna section that emits electromagnetic waves into space or receives electromagnetic waves from space, and a wireless circuit section that transmits or receives at least one of wireless signals using the electromagnetic waves as a medium via the antenna section, Mounting member to which the power supply unit is attached, Equipped with, The mounting member has the power supply unit attached to the second surface opposite to the first surface to which the load is attached. The aforementioned power supply unit is A power supply board on which the printed circuit for performing the power conversion is formed, A power supply case formed in the shape of a long box, which houses the power supply board and is attached to the mounting member, It has, The aforementioned wireless communication unit is A circuit board on which the antenna section and the wireless circuit section are formed, A case that houses the circuit board and is coupled to the power supply case, It has, The case is coupled to one end of the power supply case in the shorter direction. power supply.
2. The circuit board is housed in the case in a position in which the surface on which the antenna portion is formed is tilted relative to the second surface of the mounting member. The power supply device according to claim 1.
3. The mounting member has a hole that penetrates from the second surface to the first surface. The power supply device according to claim 1 or 2.
4. A part of the case, the part that houses the portion of the circuit board in which the antenna portion is formed, protrudes from the first surface of the mounting member through the hole. The power supply device according to claim 3.
5. The circuit board is housed in the power supply case such that its thickness direction coincides with the shorter side direction of the power supply case. The power supply device according to claim 1 or 2.
6. The circuit board is positioned in the center of the width direction of the power supply case, along the shorter direction of the case. The power supply device according to claim 5.
7. The circuit board is positioned at one end of the power supply case in the width direction of the case, along the shorter direction of the case. The power supply device according to claim 5.
8. The circuit board is housed in the power supply case such that its thickness direction coincides with the longitudinal direction of the power supply case. The power supply device according to claim 1 or 2.
9. The aforementioned case has an opening on the side facing the power supply case when it is attached to the power supply case. The power supply device according to claim 1 or 2.
10. It further has a power terminal section that is electrically connected to an external power supply, The power terminal section is located at one end of the power supply case in the longitudinal direction. The power supply device according to claim 1 or 2.
11. The circuit board is housed in the case such that its thickness direction is aligned with the thickness direction of the mounting member. The power supply device according to claim 1.
12. A portion of the aforementioned case is housed within the power supply case. The power supply device according to claim 11.
13. A power supply device according to claim 1 or 2, The light source that becomes the load of the power supply device, Equipped with, The light source is attached to the first surface of the mounting member. The power supply unit is attached to the second surface of the mounting member opposite to the first surface. Lighting device.
14. The power supply device of claim 4, The light source that becomes the load of the power supply device, A cover that is translucent and attached to the mounting member so as to cover the light source, Equipped with, The light source is attached to the first surface of the mounting member. The power supply unit is attached to the second surface of the mounting member opposite to the first surface. The aforementioned part of the case is exposed to the outside of the cover. Lighting device.
15. The lighting device of claim 13, The fixture body that supports the aforementioned lighting device, Equipped with, Lighting fixtures.
16. Lighting equipment, The fixture body that supports the aforementioned lighting device, Equipped with, The aforementioned lighting device is A power supply device according to claim 1 or 2, A light source attached to the mounting member and powered by the power supply device, Equipped with, The power supply unit is supported by the main body of the appliance. Lighting fixtures.