Method for controlling an information terminal, method for controlling a simulation system, program, information terminal and simulation system

Abstract

This invention provides a control method for an information terminal that allows for easy setting of lighting effects, a control method for a simulation system, a program, an information terminal, and a simulation system. [Solution] The control method for the information terminal 40 is a control method for the information terminal 40 comprising a communication unit 44 and a display unit 43, and includes a communication step (S5) of communicating via the communication unit 44 with a simulation system 30 that performs a simulation of lighting effects based on architectural data D1 of the lighting effect space S and equipment data D2 of lighting devices 10 that illuminate the lighting effect space S, and a setting display step (S3) of displaying a setting image i40 on the display unit 43 that enables the setting of lighting effects with fewer setting items than the simulation system 30, based on at least the equipment data D2.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a control method for an information terminal, a control method for a simulation system, a program, an information terminal, and a simulation system.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, an apparatus capable of performing lighting effects on a lighting effect space has been known. As such an apparatus capable of performing lighting effects, Patent Document 1 discloses a dimming console as an operating device for operating the dimming states of a plurality of lighting fixtures installed in a studio or a theater. It is also known to perform simulation of lighting effects using the dimming console.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Since the dimming console as in the above Patent Document 1 is usually used by lighting effect experts, it has been difficult for general users to use.

[0005] The present invention provides a control method for an information terminal, a control method for a simulation system, a program, an information terminal, and a simulation system that can easily perform lighting effect settings.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] A control method for an information terminal according to one aspect of the present invention is a control method for an information terminal comprising a communication unit and a display unit, comprising: a communication step of communicating via the communication unit with a simulation system that performs a simulation of lighting effects based on architectural data of a lighting effect space and equipment data of lighting devices that illuminate the lighting effect space; and a setting display step of displaying on the display unit a setting image that enables the setting of the lighting effects with fewer setting items than the simulation system, based on at least the equipment data.

[0007] A control method for a simulation system according to one aspect of the present invention is a control method for a simulation system comprising an acquisition unit and a communication unit, comprising: an acquisition step of acquiring architectural data of a lighting effect space and equipment data of lighting devices that illuminate the lighting effect space using the acquisition unit; a receiving step of receiving input information input via the communication unit from an information terminal that displays a setting image that allows lighting effect settings to be made with fewer setting items than the simulation system, based on at least the equipment data; and a simulation step of performing a simulation of the lighting effect based on the architectural data, the equipment data and the input information.

[0008] A control method for an information terminal according to another aspect of the present invention is a control method for an information terminal comprising an acquisition unit, a communication unit, and a display unit, comprising: an acquisition step of acquiring equipment data of a lighting device that illuminates a lighting effect space using the acquisition unit; a setting display step of displaying a setting image on the display unit that allows the setting of the lighting effect to be performed with fewer setting items than a simulation system that performs a simulation of the lighting effect, based on at least the equipment data; and a transmission step of transmitting control information relating to the lighting effect based on input information input through the setting image to a control device that controls the lighting device via the communication unit.

[0009] A control method for an information terminal according to another aspect of the present invention is a control method for an information terminal comprising an acquisition unit, a display unit, and an information processing unit, comprising: an acquisition step of acquiring architectural data of a lighting effect space and equipment data of lighting devices that illuminate the lighting effect space using the acquisition unit; a setting display step of displaying a setting image on the display unit that allows the setting of the lighting effect to be performed with fewer setting items than a simulation system that performs a simulation of the lighting effect based on at least the equipment data; and a simulation step of the information processing unit performing a simulation of the lighting effect based on the architectural data, the equipment data, and input information input through the setting image.

[0010] A program according to one aspect of the present invention causes a computer to execute the above-described control method.

[0011] An information terminal according to one aspect of the present invention comprises a communication unit that communicates with a simulation system that performs a simulation of lighting effects based on architectural data of a lighting effect space and equipment data of lighting devices that illuminate the lighting effect space, and a display unit that displays a setting image that allows the lighting effect to be set with fewer setting items than the simulation system, based on at least the equipment data.

[0012] A simulation system according to one aspect of the present invention is a simulation system for performing a lighting effect simulation, comprising: an acquisition unit that acquires architectural data of a lighting effect space and equipment data of lighting devices that illuminate the lighting effect space; a communication unit that receives input information input through a setting image from an information terminal that displays a setting image that allows the lighting effect to be set with fewer setting items than the simulation system, based at least on the equipment data; and an information processing unit that performs the lighting effect simulation based on the architectural data, the equipment data and the input information. [Effects of the Invention]

[0013] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an information terminal control method, a simulation system control method, a program, an information terminal, and a simulation system that enable easy setting of lighting effects. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0014] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of a lighting control system according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows the lighting design space from the front. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows an image displayed on the display unit of the simulation system. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows the settings image displayed on the information terminal's display. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a sequence diagram showing a control method for a lighting control system according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the lighting control system in the first modified example. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a sequence diagram showing the control method of the first modified lighting control system. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the lighting control system in the second modified example. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a sequence diagram showing the control method of the lighting control system in the second modified example. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the third modified lighting control system. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a sequence diagram showing the control method of the third modified lighting control system. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0015] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be specifically described while referring to the drawings. Note that all the embodiments described below show comprehensive or specific examples. The numerical values, shapes, materials, components, arrangement positions and connection forms of the components, steps, order of steps, etc. shown in the following embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the present invention. In addition, among the components in the following embodiments, components not described in the independent claims are described as optional components. Also, each figure is a schematic diagram and is not necessarily drawn precisely. In each figure, the same reference numerals are given to substantially the same configurations, and duplicate explanations may be omitted or simplified.

[0016] (Embodiment) First, referring to FIG. 1, the configuration of a lighting control system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of a lighting control system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] The lighting control system 1 is a system that can control, for example, lighting devices 10 for performances installed in a stage, a television studio, or an arena, or simulate lighting effects. The lighting control system 1 is used, for example, in lighting effects in a play, a concert event, or the recording of a television program. As shown in FIG. 1, the lighting control system 1 includes a plurality of lighting devices 10, a control device 20, a simulation system 30, and an information terminal 40. The number of lighting devices 10 included in the lighting control system 1 is not particularly limited, and the lighting control system 1 may include at least one lighting device 10. In the present embodiment, the lighting control system 1 includes a plurality of lighting devices 10.

[0018] The lighting device 10 is a lighting device for performance purposes, specifically a spotlight or a moving light. The lighting device 10 allows for changes in dimming level and emitted color. The lighting device 10 includes, for example, light-emitting elements that emit red light, light-emitting elements that emit green light, and light-emitting elements that emit blue light, and the change in emitted color is achieved, for example, by independently controlling the brightness of these light-emitting elements. The light-emitting elements are, for example, LED (Light Emitting Diode) elements, but may also be realized by organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) elements or semiconductor laser elements.

[0019] The control device 20 controls multiple lighting devices 10. The control device 20 transmits control signals to each lighting device 10, for example, to emit light at a predetermined dimming level and color at a predetermined timing. As a result, each lighting device 10 emits light at a predetermined dimming level and color at a predetermined timing.

[0020] In this embodiment, the control device 20 receives lighting effect information, described later, from at least one of the simulation system 30 and the information terminal 40 (in this embodiment, the simulation system 30). The control device 20 controls the lighting device 10 based on the lighting effect information. This realizes the lighting effect provided by the lighting device 10. The control device 20 is, for example, a controller that is communicated to the simulation system 30 and the information terminal 40. The controller may include a PC or a tablet terminal. Alternatively, the control device 20 may be built into the simulation system 30, for example.

[0021] The simulation system 30 performs a simulation of lighting effects based on architectural data D1 of the lighting effect space S (see Figure 2) and equipment data D2 of the lighting device 10 that illuminates the lighting effect space S. The lighting effect space S is a space such as a stage, television studio, or stadium, which is illuminated by the lighting device 10. Architectural data D1 is, for example, data that models the lighting effect space S in three dimensions. Specifically, architectural data D1 includes data on the building, such as the ceiling, walls, and floor that constitute the lighting effect space S. Architectural data D1 includes, for example, the location, material, and reflectivity of the building. Equipment data D2 is data on the lighting device 10. Equipment data D2 includes, for example, at least one piece of information such as the type of lighting device 10, the location illuminated by the lighting device 10, the installation location of the lighting device 10, and the direction of light distribution. The installation location of the lighting device 10 may be the installation location of the lighting device 10 in the lighting effect space S, or it may be the relative positional relationship between the lighting devices 10.

[0022] The simulation system 30 is a system for professionals such as lighting staff (also called lighting designers) (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the first user) to perform simulations of lighting effects. Therefore, it is possible to perform detailed simulations of lighting effects.

[0023] The simulation system 30 includes, for example, a PC or tablet terminal that is connected to other devices via communication. The simulation system 30 has an operation reception unit 31, an acquisition unit 32, a display unit 33, a communication unit 34, an information processing unit 35, and a storage unit 36.

[0024] The operation reception unit 31 receives user input. Specifically, the operation reception unit 31 receives input from the first user for setting the light emission timing, dimming level, and light emission color of each lighting device 10 in order to perform a lighting effect simulation. In other words, the simulation system 30 can perform a lighting effect simulation when information regarding the light emission timing, dimming level, and light emission color of each lighting device 10 is input by the first user. The operation reception unit 31 is specifically implemented by a touch panel, but may also be implemented by a mouse and keyboard. In this embodiment, the operation reception unit 31 is implemented as a GUI including a touch panel.

[0025] The acquisition unit 32 acquires architectural data D1 of the lighting production space S and equipment data D2 of the lighting device 10 that illuminates the lighting production space S. The acquisition unit 32 acquires architectural data D1 and equipment data D2 from a database DB that stores architectural data D1 and equipment data D2, for example. The database DB is, for example, an external server. The acquisition unit 32 is, for example, a communication circuit for communicating with the database DB. The acquisition unit 32 is, for example, a wired communication circuit that communicates with the database DB via wired connection, but it may also be a wireless communication circuit that communicates with the database DB via wireless connection. The acquisition unit 32 may also acquire architectural data D1 and equipment data D2 via a storage medium such as a USB memory.

[0026] The display unit 33 displays various images. The display unit 33 displays images that include various objects for the first user to input (set) regarding the light emission timing, dimming level, and light emission color of each lighting device 10. The display unit 33 is implemented by a display panel such as a liquid crystal panel or an organic EL panel. The images displayed by the display unit 33 will be described later.

[0027] The communication unit 34 is a communication circuit for the simulation system 30 to communicate with at least one of the control device 20 and the information terminal 40. The communication unit 34 is, for example, a wireless communication circuit that communicates wirelessly with at least one of the control device 20 and the information terminal 40, but it may also be a wired communication circuit that communicates wired with at least one of the control device 20 and the information terminal 40. In this embodiment, the communication unit 34 communicates with both the control device 20 and the information terminal 40.

[0028] The information processing unit 35 controls the entire simulation system 30. The information processing unit 35 also performs information processing in response to user operations received by the operation reception unit 31. For example, the information processing unit 35 generates an image containing various objects for the first user to input (set) regarding the light emission timing, dimming level, and light emission color of each lighting device 10, and stores the generated image in the storage unit 36. The information processing unit 35 also performs a lighting effect simulation based on the information input by the first user regarding the light emission timing, dimming level, and light emission color of each lighting device 10.

[0029] In this embodiment, the information processing unit 35 performs a lighting simulation based on the input information received from the information terminal 40. In other words, in this embodiment, the information processing unit 35 can perform a lighting simulation based on information entered into the simulation system 30 by the first user, and can also perform a lighting simulation based on the input information received from the information terminal 40.

[0030] The information processing unit 35 is implemented, for example, by a microcomputer, but may also be implemented by a processor or dedicated circuit. The functions of the information processing unit 35 are realized by the execution of a computer program (software) stored in the storage unit 36 ​​by the hardware, such as the microcomputer or processor that constitutes the information processing unit 35.

[0031] The memory unit 36 ​​stores various types of data, such as building data D1 and equipment data D2. The memory unit 36 ​​is a storage device that stores information necessary for information processing, such as computer programs executed by the information processing unit 35. The memory unit 36 ​​is implemented, for example, by semiconductor memory.

[0032] The information terminal 40 displays a setting image that allows for lighting effects to be configured with fewer setting items than the simulation system 30, based on at least the equipment data D2. The setting items for configuring the lighting effects include, for example, the number of lighting devices 10, the brightness level, and the number of light-emitting colors. The information terminal 40 is a terminal for general users (for example, those aged 6 or older) (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the second user) to configure the lighting effects.

[0033] The information terminal 40 receives, for example, operations from a second user for setting up lighting simulations. The information terminal 40 is, for example, a smartphone, PC, or tablet terminal that is connected to at least one of the simulation system 30 and the control device 20. In this embodiment, the information terminal 40 is a smartphone. Also in this embodiment, the information terminal 40 is connected to the simulation system 30. The information terminal 40 may be a PC or the like built into the simulation system 30. The information terminal 40 comprises an operation reception unit 41, an acquisition unit 42, a display unit 43, a communication unit 44, an information processing unit 45, and a storage unit 46.

[0034] The operation reception unit 41 receives operations from a second user. Specifically, the operation reception unit 41 receives operations from a second user to set the light emission timing, dimming level, and light emission color of each lighting device 10 in order to simulate lighting effects. The operation reception unit 41 is specifically implemented by a touch panel, but may also be implemented by a mouse and keyboard. In this embodiment, the operation reception unit 41 is implemented as a GUI including a touch panel.

[0035] The acquisition unit 42 acquires at least equipment data D2 from the database DB. The acquisition unit 42 may acquire both building data D1 and equipment data D2. Note that the equipment data D2 and / or building data D1 acquired by the acquisition unit 42 do not have to be exactly the same as the equipment data D2 and / or building data D1 acquired by the simulation system 30. The acquisition unit 42 is, for example, a communication circuit for communicating with the database DB. The acquisition unit 32 is, for example, a wired communication circuit for wired communication with the database DB, but it may also be a wireless communication circuit for wireless communication with the database DB. Note that the acquisition unit 42 may acquire equipment data D2 and / or building data D1 via a storage medium such as a USB memory.

[0036] The display unit 43 displays various images. The display unit 43 displays images that include various objects for a second user to input (set) regarding the light emission timing, dimming level, and light emission color of each lighting device 10.

[0037] In this embodiment, unlike the display unit 33 of the simulation system 30, the display unit 43 displays a setting image that allows for lighting effects to be set with fewer setting items than the simulation system 30. The display unit 43 is implemented by a display panel such as a liquid crystal panel or an organic EL panel. The setting image displayed by the display unit 43 will be described later.

[0038] The communication unit 44 is a communication circuit for the information terminal 40 to communicate with at least one of the simulation system 30 and the control device 20. The communication unit 44 is, for example, a wireless communication circuit that communicates wirelessly with at least one of the simulation system 30 and the control device 20, but it may also be a wired communication circuit that communicates wired with at least one of the simulation system 30 and the control device 20. In this embodiment, the communication unit 44 communicates with the simulation system 30.

[0039] The information processing unit 45 controls the entire information terminal 40. The information processing unit 45 also processes information in response to operations of a second user received by the operation reception unit 41. For example, the information processing unit 45 generates an image containing various objects for the second user to input (set) regarding the light emission timing, dimming level, and light emission color of each lighting device 10, and stores the generated image in the storage unit 46.

[0040] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the information processing unit 45 transmits the input information entered by the second user regarding the lighting effects to the simulation system 30 via the communication unit 44, causing the simulation system 30 to perform a simulation of the lighting effects.

[0041] The information processing unit 45 is implemented, for example, by a microcomputer, but may also be implemented by a processor or dedicated circuit. The functions of the information processing unit 45 are realized by the hardware, such as the microcomputer or processor constituting the information processing unit 45, executing a computer program (software) stored in the storage unit 46. This computer program includes, for example, an application program specifically for the lighting control system 1 that is installed on the information terminal 40.

[0042] The storage unit 46 stores various types of data, such as equipment data D2 and / or building data D1. The storage unit 46 is a memory device that stores information necessary for information processing, such as computer programs executed by the information processing unit 45. The storage unit 46 is implemented, for example, by semiconductor memory.

[0043] Next, with reference to Figures 2 to 4, the images displayed on the display unit 33 of the simulation system 30 and the images (setting images) displayed on the display unit 43 of the information terminal 40 will be explained. Figure 2 is a front view of the lighting effect space S. Figure 3 is a diagram showing the image i30 displayed on the display unit 33 of the simulation system 30. Figure 4 is a diagram showing the setting image i40 displayed on the display unit 43 of the information terminal 40.

[0044] Before describing the image i30 displayed on the display unit 33 and the setting image i40 displayed on the display unit 43, the lighting effect space S and the lighting device 10 will be described. For the sake of simplicity, the right and left sides of the lighting effect space S when viewed from the front may be referred to as right and left, respectively. Also, the front and back sides of the lighting effect space S when viewed from the front may be referred to as front and back (or rear), respectively.

[0045] As shown in Figure 2, in this embodiment, the lighting effect space S is a space enclosed by the ceiling 201, the back wall 202, the right wall 203, the left wall 204, and the floor 205. Note that in Figure 2, for ease of understanding, multiple lighting devices 10 are grouped together and shown with a single reference numeral.

[0046] Multiple (in this case, 14) lighting devices 10 are arranged in a row from left to right in the central part of the ceiling 201 in the front-to-back direction. Hereafter, the lighting devices 10 located in the central part of the ceiling 201 in the front-to-back direction may be referred to as lighting devices 10A. When lighting devices 10A are illuminated in a predetermined color, the area around the ceiling 201 is illuminated in that predetermined color.

[0047] Furthermore, several (in this case, six) lighting devices 10 are arranged in a row from left to right on the front part of the ceiling 201. Hereinafter, the lighting devices 10 provided on the front part of the ceiling 201 may be referred to as lighting devices 10B. Lighting devices 10B are, for example, spotlights. When lighting devices 10B are illuminated in a predetermined color, the area 205a of the floor 205 facing the lighting devices 10B is illuminated in the predetermined color.

[0048] Multiple (in this case, 14) lighting devices 10 are arranged in a row from left to right on the upper part of the back wall 202. Hereafter, the lighting devices 10 installed on the upper part of the back wall 202 may be referred to as lighting devices 10C. When the lighting devices 10C are illuminated in a predetermined color, the area around the upper part of the back wall 202 is illuminated in that predetermined color.

[0049] Furthermore, several (in this case, 14) lighting devices 10 are arranged in a row from left to right at the lower part of the back wall 202. Hereafter, the lighting devices 10 provided at the lower part of the back wall 202 may be referred to as lighting devices 10D. When the lighting devices 10D are illuminated in a predetermined color, the area around the lower part of the back wall 202 is illuminated in that predetermined color.

[0050] In this embodiment, lighting devices 10 are not provided on the right wall 203, the left wall 204, or the floor 205.

[0051] Furthermore, in this embodiment, for the sake of ease of understanding, an example of installing the lighting device 10 in the lighting performance space S will be described, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the lighting device 10 that illuminates the ceiling 201, the back wall 202, and the floor 205 may be installed outside the lighting performance space S.

[0052] Next, we will describe the image i30 displayed on the display unit 33 of the simulation system 30.

[0053] As shown in Figure 3, image i30 is an image used by the first user to set the light emission timing, dimming level, and light emission color of each lighting device 10. Image i30 includes, for example, multiple objects 301 representing faders (60 in this case). Multiple objects 301 are arranged in groups of 20 in each of the upper region R301, middle region R302, and lower region R303 of image i30. In Figure 3, for ease of understanding, multiple objects 301 are grouped together and shown with a single code, and multiple objects 302 are grouped together and shown with a single code.

[0054] In the simulation system 30, one object 301 is assigned to each lighting device 10. Specifically, 14 lighting devices 10A are assigned to the 14th object 301a from the left end of the upper region R301. Lighting devices 10B are assigned to the 15th to 17th objects 301b in the upper region R301. Lighting devices 10C are assigned to the 18th to 20th objects 301c in the upper region R301, and to the 11th object 301c from the left end of the middle region R302. Lighting devices 10D are assigned to the 12th to 20th objects 301d in the middle region R302, and to the 5th object 301d from the left end of the lower region R303. Furthermore, the 6th to 20th objects 301 in the lower region R303 are not assigned lighting devices 10.

[0055] When the first user touches object 301 and moves their finger up and down, object 301 moves within its vertical movement range. As object 301 moves from the lower end to the upper end of the movement range, the dimming level of the lighting device 10 changes continuously between 0% and 100%.

[0056] Furthermore, image i30 contains multiple objects 302 (six in Figure 2) for making various settings. Note that image i30 is intended for use by a first-party user, such as a lighting professional, to perform detailed simulations of lighting effects, and therefore contains many objects not shown for setting lighting effects.

[0057] Although a detailed explanation will be omitted, in the simulation system 30, the emission color of each lighting device 10 is selected from, for example, 256 or more colors by using objects 302, etc.

[0058] Next, we will explain the setting image i40 (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as image i40) displayed on the display unit 43 of the information terminal 40.

[0059] As shown in Figure 4, image i40 is an image for a second user to set the light emission timing, dimming level, and light emission color of each lighting device 10. Image i40 allows for setting lighting effects with fewer settings than image i30. Image i40 also includes an image for setting some of the multiple settings in the simulation system 30 all at once. Furthermore, image i40 includes an image in which graphic objects representing the lighting devices 10 are arranged in two dimensions to correspond to the positions illuminated by the lighting devices 10. A detailed explanation follows below.

[0060] Image i40 includes, for example, multiple (in this case, 24) graphic objects 401 (hereinafter simply referred to as object 401) that indicate areas (or the location of the lighting device 10) illuminated by the lighting device 10 in the lighting effect space S. Multiple objects 401 are arranged, for example, in the first stage area R401, the second stage area R402, the third stage area R403, and the fourth stage area R404 of image i40. In Figure 4, for ease of understanding, multiple objects 401 are grouped together and shown with a single symbol, and multiple objects 402, which will be described later, are also grouped together and shown with a single symbol.

[0061] Here, image i40 contains a two-dimensional image of the lighting space S. Specifically, the first region R401 corresponds to the ceiling 201 of the lighting space S. The second region R402 corresponds to the position of the spotlight or the position illuminated by the spotlight. The third region R403 corresponds to the upper part of the back wall 202. The fourth region R404 corresponds to the lower part of the back wall 202. For example, near the first region R401, a text object labeled "Ceiling" is displayed, indicating the ceiling 201 of the lighting space S. Near the second region R402, a text object labeled "Spot" is displayed, indicating the spotlight. Near the third region R403, a text object labeled "Upper Wall" is displayed, indicating the upper part of the back wall 202. Near the fourth region R404, a text object labeled "Lower Wall" is displayed, indicating the lower part of the back wall 202. Thus, image i40 includes an image in which an object 401 representing the lighting device 10 is arranged in two dimensions to correspond to the position illuminated by the lighting device 10.

[0062] In the information terminal 40, one object 401 is assigned to multiple (in this case, two) lighting devices 10. In other words, image i40 includes an image that allows setting a portion of multiple lighting devices 10 at once. Specifically, each of the seven objects 401a in the first stage area R401 is assigned two lighting devices 10A. Each of the three objects 401b in the second stage area R402 is assigned two lighting devices 10B. Each of the seven objects 401c in the third stage area R403 is assigned two lighting devices 10C. Each of the seven objects 401d in the fourth stage area R404 is assigned two lighting devices 10D.

[0063] Thus, in the information terminal 40, objects 401a to 401d corresponding to lighting devices 10A to 10D that illuminate (or are arranged) in a single row in the left-right direction are arranged in a single row in the left-right direction within the image i40. Therefore, the second user can intuitively operate the objects 401 while imagining the desired lighting effect. Note that the number of columns (or rows) of the lighting devices 10 and the number of columns (or rows) of the objects 401 may be different. Specifically, for example, when the lighting devices 10 illuminate (or are arranged) in a single row, objects 401 may be arranged in multiple columns within the image i40. Also, for example, when the lighting devices 10 illuminate (or are arranged) in multiple columns, objects 401 may be arranged in a single row within the image i40.

[0064] Furthermore, in the information terminal 40, for example, objects 401c and 401d corresponding to lighting devices 10C and 10D that illuminate (or are arranged) separately above and below are arranged vertically within the image i40. More specifically, object 401d corresponding to lighting device 10D that illuminates (or is arranged) below lighting device 10C is positioned below object 401c. As a result, the second user can operate object 401 more intuitively while imagining the desired lighting effect.

[0065] In addition, on the information terminal 40, the lighting device 10 is assigned to all objects 401 within the image i40.

[0066] Furthermore, in the information terminal 40, the setting values ​​for each setting item of the lighting device 10 are smaller compared to the simulation system 30.

[0067] Specifically, the information terminal 40 may, for example, allow the dimming level of each lighting device 10 to be set in steps (for example, in 10% increments) between 0% and 100%. Alternatively, the dimming level of each lighting device 10 may be set in several steps (for example, 3 to 5 steps).

[0068] Furthermore, in the information terminal 40, for example, the emission color of each lighting device 10 is selected from 3 to 12 colors. Specifically, the image i40 contains multiple (in this case, 9) objects 402 that represent a color palette. For example, each of the 9 objects 402 corresponds to one of 9 colors. For example, if a second user clicks on an object 402 that represents red and then touches object 401, the touched object 401 turns red, and the emission color of the lighting device 10 corresponding to that object 401 is set to red.

[0069] Image i40 also includes an object 403 that, for example, displays a preview of settings entered by a second user. Object 403 contains four regions corresponding to the first region R401, the second region R402, the third region R403, and the fourth region R404. For example, if object 401 in the first region R401 is set to red, the top region in object 403 will turn red.

[0070] Furthermore, the information terminal 40 allows switching between lighting scenes by registering how to control multiple lighting devices 10 (control content). In other words, using the information terminal 40, not only static lighting effects but also dynamic lighting effects that change over time are possible. For example, on a stage, the information terminal 40 can register the control content for scene control to realize a house scene, scene control content to realize a mountain scene, scene control content to realize an ocean scene, their playback order, and switching times. As a result, when the scenes are played back, the house scene control, mountain scene control, and ocean scene control can be performed sequentially over time.

[0071] Additionally, image i40 contains object 404 for adjusting the playback speed of the scene control.

[0072] Next, an example of the operation of the lighting control system 1 will be described with reference to Figure 5. Here, we will describe the case in which a second user simulates lighting effects using the information terminal 40. Figure 5 is a sequence diagram showing the control method of the lighting control system 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0073] The acquisition unit 42 of the information terminal 40 acquires at least equipment data D2 from the database DB (S1). The acquisition unit 32 of the simulation system 30 acquires building data D1 and equipment data D2 from the database DB (S2). Steps S1 and S2 are examples of the "acquisition steps" of the present invention.

[0074] The information processing unit 45 of the information terminal 40 generates an image i40 based on the equipment data D2 in response to the operation of the second user. The display unit 43 then displays the generated image i40. In other words, the display unit 43 displays an image i40 that allows lighting effects to be set with fewer setting items than the simulation system 30, based on at least the equipment data D2 (S3). Step S3 is an example of the "setting display step" of the present invention.

[0075] Specifically, the equipment data D2 includes data for the lighting device 10 and layout information. The layout information includes, for example, layout coordinate information and name information. The layout coordinate information includes, for example, coordinate information indicating the position of object 401 in the display area of ​​the display unit 33 or in image i40. The name information includes, for example, information indicating "ceiling," "spot," "on the wall," and "below the wall." The layout information also includes information on how many rows and columns of cells object 401 will be displayed in and information on which cells each lighting device 10 will be assigned to. The information processing unit 45 then generates image i40 based on the data for the lighting device 10 and the layout information.

[0076] The second user inputs the light emission timing, dimming level, and light emission color of each lighting device 10 via image i40. The operation reception unit 41 then accepts the input from the second user (S4).

[0077] The communication unit 44 of the information terminal 40 transmits the input information received by the second user via the image i40 to the simulation system 30 (S5). Step S5 is an example of the "communication step" of the present invention.

[0078] The communication unit 34 of the simulation system 30 receives input information from the information terminal 40 via image i40 by a second user (S6). The information processing unit 35 of the simulation system 30 performs a lighting simulation based on the building data D1, equipment data D2, and input information (S7). The display unit 33 of the simulation system 30 displays the lighting simulation results as a three-dimensional model (S8). This allows the second user to view and confirm the lighting simulation results set using the information terminal 40. Step S6 is an example of the "reception step" of the present invention. Also, step S7 is an example of the "simulation step" of the present invention.

[0079] Next, the second user executes (or verifies) the configured lighting effect using the actual lighting device 10. For example, if the second user is in a different location from the lighting effect space S, they may move to a location where they can see the lighting effect space S before executing (or verifying) the lighting effect using the lighting device 10. On the other hand, if the second user is in a location where they can see the lighting effect space S, they may execute (or verify) the lighting effect using the lighting device 10 immediately after viewing the simulation results of the lighting effect.

[0080] Specifically, the information terminal 40 receives input from a second user to initiate the lighting effect (S9). The information terminal 40 then transmits a lighting effect start signal to the simulation system 30 to initiate the lighting effect (S10). In this embodiment, the lighting effect start signal is an example of the "information for control" of the present invention. Also, in this embodiment, step S10 is an example of the "transmission step" of the present invention.

[0081] The communication unit 34 of the simulation system 30 receives a lighting effect start signal. The information processing unit 35 then generates lighting effect information indicating the light emission timing, dimming level, and light emission color of each lighting device 10 for executing the lighting effect. The lighting effect information is control information related to the lighting effect based on the input information received through the image i40. The communication unit 34 transmits the lighting effect information to the control device 20 (S11).

[0082] The control device 20 transmits control signals to each lighting device 10 based on the lighting effect information (S12). This causes the lighting effects to be executed by the lighting devices 10 (S13). In other words, the control device 20 causes the lighting devices 10 to execute lighting effects based on lighting effect information related to lighting effects based on input information from the second user. It can also be said that the control device 20 controls the lighting devices 10 based on the lighting effect start signal. Step S12 is an example of a "control step" of the present invention.

[0083] As described above, the control method for the information terminal 40 includes a setting display step (S3) in which a setting image i40 that allows lighting effects to be set with fewer setting items than the simulation system 30, based on at least the equipment data D2, is displayed on the display unit 43, and a communication step (S5) in which the information terminal 40 communicates with the simulation system 30 that performs the lighting effects simulation via the communication unit 44.

[0084] With such an information terminal 40, lighting effects can be easily configured. Furthermore, by transmitting the input information received through the configuration image i40 to the simulation system 30, a simulation of the lighting effects based on the input information received through the configuration image i40 can be performed.

[0085] (First variation) Next, a lighting control system 1 according to a first modification of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 6 and 7. Figure 6 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the lighting control system 1 according to the first modification. Figure 7 is a sequence diagram showing the control method of the lighting control system 1 according to the first modification. In this first modification, unlike the above embodiment, an example will be described in which lighting effect information is transmitted from the information terminal 40 to the control device 20.

[0086] As shown in Figure 6, in the first modified example, the communication unit 44 of the information terminal 40 communicates with both the simulation system 30 and the control device 20.

[0087] The other components of the first modified example are the same as those of the embodiment described above.

[0088] As shown in Figure 7, in the first modified example, after the operation reception unit 41 of the information terminal 40 receives input from a second user to start a lighting effect (S9), the information processing unit 45 generates lighting effect information for executing the lighting effect. Then, the communication unit 44 transmits the lighting effect information to the control device 20 (S21). In the first modified example, the lighting effect information is an example of the "information for control" of the present invention. Also, step S21 is an example of the "transmission step" of the present invention.

[0089] Subsequently, the control device 20 transmits control signals to each lighting device 10 based on the lighting effect information (S12). In other words, the control device 20 controls the lighting devices 10 based on the lighting effect information.

[0090] Other examples of operation of the first modified form are the same as those of the embodiment described above.

[0091] In the first modified example, as described above, the device includes a transmission step (S21) in which lighting effect information (control information) related to lighting effects based on input information from the second user is transmitted to the control device 20 via the communication unit 44.

[0092] With such an information terminal 40, lighting effect information (control information) can be transmitted to the control device 20 without going through the simulation system 30, and the lighting effect can be executed by the lighting device 10. This configuration is effective, for example, when setting the lighting effect on the information terminal 40, simulating it in the simulation system 30 (for example, a few days later), and then executing the lighting effect by the lighting device 10.

[0093] (Second variation) Next, a second modified example of the lighting control system 1 of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 8 and 9. Figure 8 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the second modified example of the lighting control system 1. Figure 9 is a sequence diagram showing the control method of the second modified example of the lighting control system 1. In this second modified example, unlike the embodiments described above, an example of performing lighting effects using the lighting device 10 without performing simulation will be described.

[0094] As shown in Figure 8, in the second modified example, the communication unit 44 of the information terminal 40 communicates with the control device 20. In the second modified example, the communication unit 44 does not communicate with the simulation system 30, but it may be possible to communicate with it.

[0095] The other configurations of the second modified example are the same as those of the embodiment described above.

[0096] As shown in Figure 9, in the second modified example, after the operation reception unit 41 of the information terminal 40 receives an input operation from the second user (S4), the communication unit 44 does not transmit the input information entered by the second user to the simulation system 30. In other words, in the second modified example, the lighting effect simulation is not performed.

[0097] Then, after the operation reception unit 41 receives input from the second user to start the lighting effect (S9), the information processing unit 45 generates lighting effect information to execute the lighting effect. Then, the communication unit 44 transmits the lighting effect information to the control device 20 (S21).

[0098] Other operational examples of the second modified version are the same as those of the first modified version.

[0099] In the second modified example, as described above, the system includes a setting display step (S3) in which a setting image i40 that allows lighting effects to be set with fewer setting items than the simulation system 30, based on at least the equipment data D2, is displayed on the display unit 43, and a transmission step (S21) in which control information (lighting effects information) related to lighting effects based on input information input through the setting image i40 is transmitted to the control device 20 via the communication unit 44.

[0100] Such an information terminal 40 allows for easy configuration of lighting effects. Furthermore, control information (lighting effect information) can be transmitted to the control device 20 without going through the simulation system 30, enabling the lighting effects to be executed by the lighting device 10. This configuration is particularly effective, for example, when a second user is near the lighting effect space S, as it allows them to immediately execute (or verify) the lighting effects by the lighting device 10 without performing a simulation.

[0101] (Third variation) Next, a third modified example of the lighting control system 1 of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 10 and 11. Figure 10 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the third modified example of the lighting control system 1. Figure 11 is a sequence diagram showing the control method of the third modified example of the lighting control system 1. In this third modified example, unlike the embodiments described above, an example will be described in which the information terminal 40 performs a simulation of lighting effects.

[0102] As shown in Figure 10, in the third modified example, the acquisition unit 42 of the information terminal 40 acquires both building data D1 and equipment data D2 from the database DB.

[0103] In the third modified example, similar to the second modified example, the communication unit 44 of the information terminal 40 communicates with the control device 20. In the third modified example, the communication unit 44 does not communicate with the simulation system 30, but it may be possible to communicate with it.

[0104] The other components of the third variant are the same as those of the second variant.

[0105] As shown in Figure 11, in the third modified example, in step S1, the acquisition unit 42 of the information terminal 40 acquires both building data D1 and equipment data D2 from the database DB.

[0106] After the operation reception unit 41 of the information terminal 40 receives an input operation from the second user (S4), the information processing unit 45 performs a lighting effect simulation based on the building data D1, equipment data D2, and input information (S31). The display unit 43 of the information terminal 40 displays the lighting effect simulation result as a three-dimensional model (S32). This allows the second user to view and confirm the lighting effect simulation result set using the information terminal 40. Step S31 is an example of the "simulation step" of the present invention. Step S32 is an example of the "setting display step" of the present invention.

[0107] Other operational examples of the third variant are the same as those of the second variant.

[0108] In the third modified example, as described above, the system includes a setting display step (S32) in which a setting image i40, which allows lighting effects to be set with fewer setting items than the simulation system 30, is displayed on the display unit 43 based on at least the equipment data D2, and a simulation step (S31) in which the information processing unit 45 performs a simulation of lighting effects based on the input information entered through the building data D1, the equipment data D2, and the setting image i40.

[0109] With this information terminal 40, lighting effects can be easily configured. Furthermore, lighting effects can be simulated based on input information received through the lighting effect configuration image i40. In other words, lighting effects can be easily simulated. Moreover, since simulations can be performed using the information terminal 40 without the need for the simulation system 30, lighting effects can be simulated even more easily.

[0110] In the third modified example, an example was described in which lighting effect information is transmitted from the information terminal 40 to the control device 20 after a simulation has been performed on the information terminal 40, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, after a simulation has been performed on the information terminal 40, a lighting effect start signal may be transmitted from the information terminal 40 to the simulation system 30, and the lighting effect information may be transmitted from the simulation system 30 to the control device 20.

[0111] [Effects, etc.] The following describes examples of inventions that can be obtained from the disclosures in this specification, and explains the effects and other benefits that can be obtained from these examples.

[0112] Invention 1 is a control method for an information terminal 40 comprising a communication unit 44 and a display unit 43, the method comprising: a communication step (S5) of communicating via the communication unit 44 with a simulation system 30 that performs a simulation of lighting effects based on architectural data D1 of a lighting effect space S and equipment data D2 of a lighting device 10 that illuminates the lighting effect space S; and a setting display step (S3) of displaying a setting image i40 on the display unit 43 that enables the setting of lighting effects with fewer setting items than the simulation system 30, based on at least the equipment data D2.

[0113] This control method for the information terminal 40 allows for easy setting of lighting effects. Furthermore, by transmitting the input information received through the setting image i40 to the simulation system 30, a simulation of lighting effects based on the input information can be performed. In other words, lighting effect simulations can be easily performed.

[0114] Invention 2 is a control method for the information terminal 40 of Invention 1, wherein the setting image i40 includes an image for setting a portion of multiple setting items in the simulation system 30 all at once.

[0115] This method of controlling the information terminal 40 makes it easier to set up lighting effects.

[0116] Invention 3 is a control method for the information terminal 40 of Invention 2, wherein the setting image i40 includes an image that allows for the simultaneous setting of a portion of multiple lighting devices 10.

[0117] This method of controlling the information terminal 40 makes it easier to set up lighting effects.

[0118] Invention 4 is a control method for an information terminal 40 of any of Inventions 1 to 3, wherein the setting image i40 includes a two-dimensional image of the lighting effect space S.

[0119] This control method for the information terminal 40 makes it easier to visualize the lighting effect space S from the setting image i40, thus making it easier to set up the lighting effect.

[0120] Invention 5 is a control method for the information terminal 40 of Invention 4, wherein the setting image i40 includes an image in which graphic objects (objects 401) representing the lighting device 10 are arranged in two dimensions to correspond to the positions illuminated by the lighting device 10.

[0121] According to this control method for the information terminal 40, a setting image i40 is displayed in which the position of a graphic object (object 401) representing the lighting device 10 corresponds to the position illuminated by the lighting device 10. This allows users to intuitively set the lighting effect while visualizing the desired lighting effect.

[0122] Invention 6 is a control method for an information terminal 40 of any of Inventions 1 to 5, which includes a transmission step (S21) of transmitting control information (lighting effect information) related to lighting effects to a control device 20 that controls a lighting device 10 via a communication unit 44.

[0123] According to this control method for the information terminal 40, control information (lighting effect information) can be transmitted to the control device 20 without going through the simulation system 30.

[0124] Invention 7 is a control method for an information terminal 40 of any of Inventions 1 to 6, which includes a transmission step S10 or S21 in which the control device 20 transmits information for controlling the lighting device 10 (lighting effect start signal or lighting effect information) to the simulation system 30 or the control device 20 that controls the lighting device 10 via the communication unit 44, and the control device 20 controls the lighting device 10 based on the information for control (lighting effect start signal or lighting effect information).

[0125] According to this control method for the information terminal 40, the lighting effects set on the information terminal 40 can be made to be executed by the lighting device 10.

[0126] Invention 8 is a method for controlling an information terminal 40 according to any of Inventions 1 to 7, wherein the architectural data D1 is data that represents a three-dimensional model of the lighting effect space S.

[0127] This method of controlling the information terminal 40 makes it possible to improve the accuracy of the simulation performed by the simulation system 30.

[0128] Invention 9 is a control method for an information terminal 40 according to any of Inventions 1 to 8, wherein the equipment data D2 includes at least one piece of information such as the type of lighting device 10, the position illuminated by the lighting device 10, the installation position of the lighting device 10, and the direction of light distribution.

[0129] This method of controlling the information terminal 40 makes it possible to set up lighting effects in more detail.

[0130] Invention 10 is a control method for a simulation system 30 comprising an acquisition unit 32 and a communication unit 34, the method comprising: an acquisition step (S2) in which the acquisition unit 32 acquires architectural data D1 of a lighting effect space S and equipment data D2 of a lighting device 10 that illuminates the lighting effect space S; a receiving step (S6) in which the communication unit 34 receives input information input via the setting image i40 from an information terminal 40 that displays a setting image i40 that allows the lighting effect to be set with fewer setting items than the simulation system 30, based on at least the equipment data D2; and a simulation step (S7) in which a simulation of the lighting effect is performed based on the architectural data D1, the equipment data D2 and the input information.

[0131] According to the control method of this simulation system 30, lighting effects can be easily set. Furthermore, lighting effects can be simulated based on input information received through the lighting effect setting image i40. In other words, lighting effects can be easily simulated.

[0132] Invention 11 is a control method for an information terminal 40 comprising an acquisition unit 42, a communication unit 44, and a display unit 43, the method comprising: an acquisition step (S1) in which the acquisition unit 42 acquires at least equipment data D2 of a lighting device 10 that illuminates a lighting effect space S; a setting display step (S3) in which the display unit 43 displays a setting image i40 that allows the setting of a lighting effect with fewer setting items than a simulation system 30 that performs a simulation of a lighting effect based on at least the equipment data D2; and a transmission step (S21) in which control information relating to a lighting effect (lighting effect information) based on input information input through the setting image i40 is transmitted via the communication unit 44 to a control device 20 that controls the lighting device 10.

[0133] This control method for the information terminal 40 allows for easy setting of lighting effects. Furthermore, control information (lighting effect information) can be transmitted to the control device 20 without going through the simulation system 30.

[0134] Invention 12 is a control method for an information terminal 40 comprising an acquisition unit 42, a display unit 43, and an information processing unit 45, the method comprising: an acquisition step (S1) in which the acquisition unit 42 acquires architectural data D1 of a lighting effect space S and equipment data D2 of a lighting device 10 that illuminates the lighting effect space S; a setting display step (S32) in which the display unit 43 displays a setting image i40 that allows the setting of the lighting effect with fewer setting items than a simulation system 30 that performs a simulation of the lighting effect based on at least the equipment data D2; and a simulation step (S31) in which the information processing unit 45 performs a simulation of the lighting effect based on the architectural data D1, the equipment data D2, and input information input through the setting image i40.

[0135] This control method for the information terminal 40 allows for easy setting of lighting effects. Furthermore, it enables simulation of lighting effects based on input information received through the lighting effect setting image i40. Additionally, since simulations can be performed on the information terminal 40 without using the simulation system 30, lighting effect simulations can be made even easier.

[0136] Invention 13 is a program that causes a computer to execute one of the control methods from Inventions 1 to 12.

[0137] With such a program, a computer can easily perform the setup of lighting effects.

[0138] Invention 14 is an information terminal 40 comprising a communication unit 44 that communicates with a simulation system 30 that performs a simulation of lighting effects based on architectural data D1 of the lighting effect space S and equipment data D2 of lighting devices 10 that illuminate the lighting effect space S, and a display unit 43 that displays a setting image i40 that allows the lighting effect to be set with fewer setting items than the simulation system 30, based on at least the equipment data D2.

[0139] Such an information terminal 40 makes it easy to set up lighting effects. Furthermore, by transmitting the input information received through the setting image i40 to the simulation system 30, it is possible to simulate lighting effects based on the input information received through the setting image i40.

[0140] Invention 15 is a simulation system 30 for performing lighting effects simulations, comprising: an acquisition unit 32 that acquires architectural data D1 of a lighting effect space S and equipment data D2 of a lighting device 10 that illuminates the lighting effect space S; a communication unit 34 that receives input information from an information terminal 40 that displays a setting image i40 that allows lighting effects to be set with fewer setting items than the simulation system 30, based on at least the equipment data D2, via the setting image i40; and an information processing unit 35 that performs lighting effects simulations based on the architectural data D1, equipment data D2, and input information.

[0141] This simulation system 30 makes it easy to set up lighting effects. Furthermore, it can simulate lighting effects based on input information received through the lighting effect setting image i40.

[0142] (Other embodiments) Although embodiments and variations have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments and variations described above.

[0143] For example, in the above embodiment and the first modified example, an example was described in which the simulation system 30 performs a simulation of lighting effects by the lighting device 10, and then the display unit 33 of the simulation system 30 displays the simulation results. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, after the simulation system 30 performs a simulation of lighting effects by the lighting device 10, simulation information indicating the simulation results may be transmitted from the simulation system 30 to, for example, an information terminal 40, and the display unit 43 of the information terminal 40 may display the simulation results.

[0144] Furthermore, although the lighting control system 1 was implemented by multiple devices in the above embodiments, it may also be implemented as a single device. Thus, the system in this specification may consist of a single device or it may consist of multiple devices. When the system is implemented by multiple devices, the components of the system may be distributed among the multiple devices in any way.

[0145] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, a process executed by a specific information processing unit may be executed by another information processing unit. Also, the order of multiple processes may be changed, or multiple processes may be executed in parallel.

[0146] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, each component may be realized by executing a software program suitable for that component. Each component may also be realized by a program execution unit such as a CPU or processor reading and executing a software program recorded on a recording medium such as a hard disk or semiconductor memory.

[0147] Furthermore, each component may be implemented by hardware. Each component may also be a circuit (or integrated circuit). These circuits may form a single circuit as a whole, or they may be separate circuits. Also, each of these circuits may be a general-purpose circuit or a dedicated circuit.

[0148] Furthermore, general or specific embodiments of the present invention may be implemented as a system, apparatus, method, integrated circuit, computer program, or recording medium such as a computer-readable CD-ROM. Alternatively, they may be implemented as any combination of a system, apparatus, method, integrated circuit, computer program, and recording medium.

[0149] For example, the present invention may be implemented as any of the systems or devices described above, such as the lighting control system 1, the simulation system 30, or the information terminal 40. Furthermore, the present invention may be implemented as a control method or device control method executed by a computer system. The present invention may also be implemented as a program for causing a computer to execute the control method or device control method, or as a computer-readable non-temporary recording medium on which such a program is stored.

[0150] Furthermore, the present invention also includes forms obtained by applying various modifications to the above embodiments and modifications as conceived by those skilled in the art, or forms realized by arbitrarily combining the components and functions of the above embodiments and modifications without departing from the spirit of the present invention. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0151] 10 Lighting devices 20 Control device 30 Simulation Systems 32 Acquisition Department 34 Communications Department 35 Information Processing Department 40 Information terminals 42 Acquisition Department 43 Display section 44 Communications Department 45 Information Processing Section 401, 401a~401d Shape object, object D1 Architectural Data D2 Equipment Data i40 settings image, image S Lighting Design Space S1 Step (Acquisition Step) S2 Step (Acquisition Step) S3 Step (Settings Display Step) S5 step (communication step) S6 Step (Receiving Step) S7 Step (Simulation Step) S10 Step (Transmission Step) S12 Step (Control Step) S21 Step (Transmission Step) S31 Step (Simulation Step) S32 Step (Setting Display Step)

Claims

1. A control method for an information terminal comprising a communication unit and a display unit, A simulation system that performs a simulation of lighting effects based on architectural data of the lighting effect space and equipment data of lighting devices that illuminate the lighting effect space, and a communication step that communicates via the communication unit, A setting display step in which, based on at least the equipment data, a setting image is displayed on the display unit that allows the lighting effects to be set with fewer setting items than the simulation system, including, A method for controlling information terminals.

2. The aforementioned setting image includes an image for setting some of the multiple setting items in the simulation system all at once. A method for controlling an information terminal as described in claim 1.

3. The control method for an information terminal according to claim 2, wherein the setting image includes an image that allows for the simultaneous setting of a portion of a plurality of lighting devices.

4. The control method for an information terminal according to claim 1, wherein the setting image includes a two-dimensional image of the lighting effect space.

5. The control method for an information terminal according to claim 4, wherein the setting image includes an image in which graphic objects representing the lighting device are arranged in two dimensions to correspond to the positions illuminated by the lighting device.

6. The control method for an information terminal according to claim 1, comprising a transmission step of transmitting control information relating to the lighting effects to a control device that controls the lighting device via the communication unit.

7. The control device includes a transmission step in which it transmits information for controlling the lighting device to the simulation system or a control device that controls the lighting device via the communication unit, The control method for an information terminal according to claim 1, wherein the control device controls the lighting device based on the information for control.

8. The method for controlling an information terminal according to claim 1, wherein the architectural data is data representing a three-dimensional model of the lighting effect space.

9. The control method for an information terminal according to claim 1, wherein the equipment data includes at least one piece of information: the type of lighting device, the location illuminated by the lighting device, the installation location of the lighting device, and the direction of light distribution.

10. A control method for a simulation system comprising an acquisition unit and a communication unit, An acquisition step in which the acquisition unit acquires architectural data of the lighting design space and equipment data of the lighting device that illuminates the lighting design space, A receiving step of receiving input information via the communication unit from an information terminal that displays a setting image that allows lighting effects to be set with fewer setting items than the simulation system, based at least on the equipment data, A simulation step in which the lighting effects are simulated based on the aforementioned building data, equipment data, and input information, including, A method for controlling a simulation system.

11. A control method for an information terminal comprising an acquisition unit, a communication unit, and a display unit, An acquisition step in which the acquisition unit acquires at least equipment data of lighting devices that illuminate a lighting performance space, A setting display step that displays on the display unit a setting image that allows the setting of the lighting effect to be performed with fewer setting items than a simulation system that performs a simulation of the lighting effect based on at least the equipment data, A transmission step of transmitting control information related to the lighting effect based on the input information input through the setting image to a control device that controls the lighting device via the communication unit, including, A method for controlling information terminals.

12. A control method for an information terminal comprising an acquisition unit, a display unit, and an information processing unit, An acquisition step in which the acquisition unit acquires architectural data of the lighting design space and equipment data of the lighting device that illuminates the lighting design space, A setting display step that displays on the display unit a setting image that allows the setting of the lighting effect to be performed with fewer setting items than a simulation system that performs a simulation of the lighting effect based on at least the equipment data, The information processing unit performs a simulation step in which it simulates the lighting effects based on the building data, the equipment data, and the input information input through the setting image. including, A method for controlling information terminals.

13. A program that causes a computer to execute the control method described in any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. A communication unit that communicates with a simulation system that performs a simulation of lighting effects based on architectural data of the lighting effect space and equipment data of the lighting devices that illuminate the lighting effect space, A display unit that displays a setting image that allows the lighting effects to be set with fewer setting items than the simulation system, based at least on the equipment data, Equipped with, Information terminal.

15. A simulation system for simulating lighting effects, An acquisition unit that acquires architectural data of a lighting design space and equipment data of lighting devices that illuminate the lighting design space, A communication unit that receives input information from an information terminal that displays a setting image that allows lighting effects to be set with fewer setting items than the simulation system, based at least on the equipment data, via the setting image, An information processing unit that performs a simulation of the lighting effects based on the aforementioned building data, equipment data, and input information, Equipped with, Simulation system.

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