Lighting system

Abstract

To make it easier to provide lighting that is considerate of the needs of the elderly. [Solution] The lighting system A1 comprises a light source unit 10 that outputs illumination light, an operation unit 21, and a control unit 13. The operation unit 21 receives operation inputs related to the output of the light source unit 10. The control unit 13 controls the output of the light source unit 10 based on instructions corresponding to the operation inputs. The correlated color temperature of the illumination light is set to fall within a predetermined range defined by an upper limit and a lower limit. The upper limit is a value within a first range of 7000K to 8800K. The lower limit is a value within a second range of 3000K to 4500K.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to lighting systems. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a lighting system including a light source unit that outputs illumination light.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a lighting control system that takes into account the impact on the human body. In this lighting control system, a lighting fixture and an information processing device are communicably connected. The lighting fixture includes a first light emitting device, a second light emitting device, and a light emission control unit that controls the ratio of the light emitted by the first light emitting device and the light emitted by the second light emitting device to irradiate illumination light. The information processing device has a dimming management unit that changes the light irradiation ratio between the first light emitting device and the second light emitting device according to the time zone of the day, and changes the circadian characteristics of the illumination light in the time zone where the illumination light is irradiated, and executes lighting control considering the circadian rhythm.

[0003] Further, Patent Document 1 describes ranges such as from 2700K to 6500K, or from 3000K to 5000K, for the correlated color temperature of the first light emitting device and the second light emitting device.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] If the user of the lighting control system (lighting system) is elderly, they may find the illumination light with correlated color temperatures from 2700K to 6500K described in Patent Document 1 inconvenient. Specifically, with light around 6500K, elderly people, whose vision is generally weaker than that of younger people, may have difficulty reading text in newspapers and magazines, and may also have difficulty performing close-up tasks. Furthermore, the optical system of the elderly's eyes has a particularly low transmittance of short-wavelength visible light compared to younger people, and the light reaching the retina of the elderly tends to have a yellowish tint. Therefore, light around 2700K may cause discomfort to elderly people.

[0006] This disclosure is made in light of the reasons stated above, and aims to provide a lighting system that makes it easier to provide lighting that is considerate of the elderly. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A lighting system according to one aspect of this disclosure comprises a light source unit that outputs illumination light, an operation unit, and a control unit. The operation unit receives operation inputs related to the output of the light source unit. The control unit controls the output of the light source unit based on instructions corresponding to the operation inputs. The correlated color temperature of the illumination light is set to fall within a predetermined range defined by an upper limit and a lower limit. The upper limit is a value within a first range of 7000K to 8800K. The lower limit is a value within a second range of 3000K to 4500K. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to this disclosure, there is an advantage in that it becomes easier to provide lighting that is considerate of the elderly. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a conceptual diagram of a lighting system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the lighting system described above. [Figure 3]Figure 3 is a graph showing the change in spectral transmittance of light reaching the retina with age. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a conceptual diagram of the lighting system according to Modification 1. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a conceptual diagram of the lighting system according to Modification Example 2. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a conceptual diagram of the lighting system according to modified example 3. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] (overview) The following describes the lighting systems according to embodiments and modifications, with reference to the drawings. Note that the embodiments and modifications described below are merely one of many embodiments of this disclosure. Furthermore, the embodiments and modifications described below can be modified in various ways depending on the design, etc., as long as the objectives of this disclosure are achieved. Also, the configurations of each of the modifications described below can be appropriately combined with the embodiments or other modifications described below.

[0011] As shown in Figure 1, one embodiment of the lighting system A1 comprises a light source unit 10 that outputs illumination light, an operation unit 21, and a control unit 13. The operation unit 21 receives operation inputs related to the output of the light source unit 10. The control unit 13 controls the output of the light source unit 10 based on instructions corresponding to the operation inputs. In the example configuration of the lighting system A1 shown in Figure 1, the light source unit 10 and the control unit 13 are provided in the lighting device 1, and the operation unit 21 is provided in an operation terminal 2 separate from the lighting device 1.

[0012] Lighting device 1 is installed in a structure. Lighting device 1 is assumed to be a so-called ceiling light, for example, installed on the ceiling surface of the living room of a house. However, lighting device 1 may also be a downlight embedded in the ceiling, or a so-called desk lamp placed on a table, etc. Alternatively, lighting device 1 may be a so-called bracket-type lighting device installed on a wall. Furthermore, lighting device 1 is not limited to residences, but may also be installed in office buildings, commercial facilities, train stations, schools, hospitals, or nursing care facilities, etc.

[0013] The operating terminal 2 can communicate with the lighting device 1 via the communication path L1 (see Figure 1). The operating terminal 2 is assumed to be, for example, a dedicated remote controller (remote control) that can be held and operated with one hand. However, the operating terminal 2 is not limited to a dedicated remote control; it may be a mobile device such as a smartphone or tablet, or even a wall switch. If the operating terminal 2 is a dedicated remote control or a mobile device such as a smartphone, the communication path L1 may be a wireless communication path. If the operating terminal 2 is a wall switch, the communication path L1 may be a wired communication path.

[0014] In lighting system A1, the correlated color temperature of the illumination light is set to fall within a predetermined range defined by an upper and lower limit. The upper limit is set to a value within the first range, from 7000K to 8800K. The lower limit is set to a value within the second range, from 3000K to 4500K. This "setting the correlated color temperature to fall within a predetermined range" may be set by the configuration of the light source unit 10 of the lighting device 1 (hardware configuration), and / or by the configuration of the control unit 13 or the operation terminal 2 of the lighting device 1 (software configuration). In the following example, the "setting the correlated color temperature to fall within a predetermined range" is performed by both the configuration of the light source unit 10 of the lighting device 1 and the configuration of the operation terminal 2.

[0015] Furthermore, it is more preferable that the second range, which is the lower limit, be between 3000K and 4000K.

[0016] According to the configuration of this lighting system A1, with respect to the correlated color temperature of the illumination light, the upper limit value is set to be within a first range of 7000K or more and 8800K or less, and the lower limit value is set to be within a second range of 3000K or more and 4500K or less, so as to fall within a predetermined range. That is, for the elderly whose vision has deteriorated compared to the younger generation, in order to make it easier to see the text in newspapers, magazines, etc., and also to facilitate operations such as working at hand, it is set to shift to a region with a correlated color temperature higher than 6500K. Also, the eye optical system of the elderly has a particularly low transmittance of short-wavelength light among visible light compared to the younger generation, and the light reaching the retina of the elderly will be tinged with yellow. Considering this point, it is set to shift to a region with a correlated color temperature higher than 2700K so as not to give discomfort to the elderly. Therefore, the lighting system A1 has the advantage of being able to easily provide illumination light that takes into account the elderly.

[0017] (Embodiment) Hereinafter, the configuration of the lighting system A1 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 1.

[0018] The lighting system A1 includes one or more (in the illustrated example, one) lighting device 1 (as described above, for example, a ceiling light) and an operation terminal 2.

[0019] [Lighting Device] Hereinafter, the configuration of the lighting device 1 will be described.

[0020] As described above, the lighting device 1 is installed, for example, on the ceiling surface of the ceiling in the living room of a house. The lighting device 1 includes a light source unit 10, a control unit 13, and a communication unit 14.

[0021] The light source unit 10 outputs illumination light. The light source unit 10 is arranged, for example, to output illumination light from the ceiling surface side into the space in the living room. The light source unit 10 includes at least two types of light sources with different correlated color temperatures of the light that can be output. Hereinafter, as an example, the light source unit 10 includes two types of light sources, a first light source 11 and a second light source 12. However, the light source unit 10 may include three or more types of light sources.

[0022] The first light source 11 is configured to output first light with a correlated color temperature within a first range of 7000K to 8800K. The first light source 11 includes one or more LED (Light Emitting Diode) elements that emit light with a correlated color temperature higher than, for example, so-called daylight color (5000K or 6000K, etc.) (light with a correlated color temperature within a first range of 7000K to 8800K).

[0023] The second light source 12 is configured to output second light with a correlated color temperature within a second range of 3000K to 4500K. The second light source 12 includes, for example, one or more LED elements that emit light with a correlated color temperature higher than the so-called incandescent color (2700K) (light with a correlated color temperature within the second range of 3000K to 4500K).

[0024] Here, as an example, the first light from the first light source 11 is assumed to have a correlated color temperature of 7800K (correlated color temperature within the first range). Also, as an example, the second light from the second light source 12 is assumed to have a correlated color temperature of 3500K (correlated color temperature within the second range). Furthermore, the correlated color temperature of the illumination light of the light source unit 10 as a whole depends on the combination of the first and second lights, and can be adjusted within the range of 3500K to 7800K. In other words, as an example, 7800K is the upper limit and 3500K is the lower limit for the correlated color temperature of the illumination light. However, the upper limit is not limited to 7800K as long as it is within the first range of 7000K to 8800K. Similarly, the lower limit is not limited to 3500K as long as it is within the second range of 3000K to 4500K.

[0025] When an illumination light output with a correlated color temperature between the lower and upper limits is required, the ratio of the luminous flux of the first light source to the luminous flux of the second light source is adjusted to generate illumination light with that correlated color temperature. In other words, the higher the ratio of the luminous flux of the first light source, the closer the correlated color temperature of the illumination light will be to the upper limit (7800K). Conversely, the higher the ratio of the luminous flux of the second light source, the closer the correlated color temperature of the illumination light will be to the lower limit (3500K).

[0026] If an illumination output of 7800K, the upper limit, is required, only the first light source 11 will be lit, and the second light source 12 will be turned off. Similarly, if an illumination output of 3500K, the lower limit, is required, only the second light source 12 will be lit, and the first light source 11 will be turned off. In other words, the first light source 11 can be said to be the light source corresponding to the upper limit, and the second light source 12 can be said to be the light source corresponding to the lower limit.

[0027] If the ratio of the luminous flux of the first light source to the luminous flux of the second light source is the same, for example, illumination light with a correlated color temperature of 6200K can be output from the light source unit 10. Furthermore, in the "fully lit" state described later, it is assumed that the ratio of the luminous flux of the first light source to the luminous flux of the second light source is the same, and illumination light with a correlated color temperature of 6200K is output.

[0028] In short, the correlated color temperature of the illumination light from the light source unit 10 as a whole is set to fall within a predetermined range defined by an upper limit and a lower limit. The upper limit is set to a value within the first range of 7000K to 8800K (7800K is used as an example here). The lower limit is set to a value within the second range of 3000K to 4500K. The second range is more preferably 3000K to 4000K, and as an example here, the lower limit is set to 3500K.

[0029] The control unit 13 is implemented, for example, by a computer system having one or more processors and one or more memories. In other words, multiple functions of the control unit 13 can be realized by one or more processors executing a program stored in memory. The program may be pre-stored in memory, provided via a telecommunication line such as the Internet, or provided on a non-temporary recording medium such as a memory card.

[0030] The control unit 13 includes a lighting circuit that lights up the first light source 11 and the second light source 12 of the light source unit 10, and a control circuit that controls the lighting circuit to increase or decrease the current supplied to the first light source 11 and the second light source 12.

[0031] The lighting circuit includes a rectifier that rectifies the AC voltage supplied from the power system, a power factor correction circuit that boosts and smooths the pulsating voltage output from the rectifier, and two step-down chopper circuits that step down the DC voltage output from the power factor correction circuit. One of the two step-down chopper circuits supplies DC current to the LED element of the first light source 11, and the other supplies DC current to the LED element of the second light source 12.

[0032] The control circuit controls the lighting circuit to individually increase or decrease the output current of these two step-down chopper circuits, thereby individually adjusting (dimming, color tuning) the luminous flux and color temperature (correlated color temperature) of the light emitted from the light source unit 10.

[0033] When the control unit 21 of the operation terminal 2, which will be described later, receives an operation input from the user, the control unit 13 controls the output of the light source unit 10 (on / off, dimming, color adjustment) based on the instruction (instruction signal) from the operation terminal 2 corresponding to the operation input. In other words, in this embodiment, it is assumed that the operation inputs that the control unit 21 of the operation terminal 2 can accept include operation inputs related to turning on / off the light source unit 10 (for example, full illumination at a dimming rate of 100%), operation inputs related to correlated color temperature, and operation inputs related to dimming rate.

[0034] For example, the control unit 13 controls the light source unit 10 to turn on or off based on an instruction signal from the operation terminal 2 corresponding to an operation input instructing to turn on or off the light. The control unit 13 also controls the light source unit 10 so that illumination light with the changed dimming rate is output based on an instruction signal from the operation terminal 2 corresponding to an operation input for changing the dimming rate. Furthermore, for example, the control unit 13 controls the light source unit 10 so that illumination light with the changed correlated color temperature is output based on an instruction signal from the operation terminal 2 corresponding to an operation input for changing the correlated color temperature.

[0035] In particular, the light source unit 10 includes, as described above, a first light source 11 capable of outputting a first light with a correlated color temperature of 7800K within a first range of 7000K to 8800K, and a second light source 12 capable of outputting a second light with a correlated color temperature of 3500K within a second range of 3000K to 4500K. In other words, the configuration of the light source unit 10 makes it easier to "set the correlated color temperature to fall within a predetermined range."

[0036] The control unit 13 then adjusts the ratio of the luminous flux of the first light source to the luminous flux of the second light source when changing the correlated color temperature of the illumination light to one of the correlated color temperatures within a predetermined range from a lower limit (3500K) to an upper limit (7800K) in response to an instruction signal from the operation terminal 2. In other words, the control unit 13 controls the system to increase the ratio of the luminous flux of the first light source as the instructed correlated color temperature increases, and to increase the ratio of the luminous flux of the second light source as the instructed correlated color temperature decreases. If the instruction signal from the operation terminal 2 indicates a correlated color temperature of the upper limit (7800K), the control unit 13 controls the system to turn on only the first light source 11 and turn off the second light source 12. If the instruction signal from the operation terminal 2 indicates a correlated color temperature of the lower limit (3500K), the control unit 13 controls the system to turn on only the second light source 12 and turn off the first light source 11. In other words, the configuration of the control unit 13 makes it easier to achieve the goal of "setting the correlated color temperature to fall within a predetermined range."

[0037] The communication unit 14 is configured to communicate with the communication unit 24 of the operating terminal 2, which will be described later, via the communication path L1 (see Figure 1). If the operating terminal 2 is an infrared remote control, the communication unit 14 communicates with the operating terminal 2 using infrared communication. However, the communication standard for wireless communication between the communication unit 14 and the operating terminal 2 is not particularly limited. For example, if the operating terminal 2 is a mobile device such as a smartphone or tablet, it may be a communication standard such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark) and / or BLE (Bluetooth (registered trademark) low energy). Also, if the operating terminal 2 is a wall switch, the communication between the communication unit 14 and the operating terminal 2 may be wired or wireless. In short, the communication path L1 may be a wireless communication path or a wired communication path.

[0038] The lighting device 1 also includes a main body (housing) and a cover. The main body is formed in the shape of a box with an open bottom, for example, from a metal plate such as an aluminum plate. The light source unit 10 and the control unit 13 are housed inside the main body. However, the light source unit 10 is housed inside the main body with the light-emitting surface of the LED element facing the bottom surface of the main body. The control unit 13 is housed inside the main body between the inner bottom surface of the main body and the light source unit 10. The cover is made of a translucent synthetic resin such as acrylic resin or polycarbonate resin. The cover is attached to the main body so as to cover the bottom side of the main body. The cover is configured to diffuse the light emitted from the light source unit 10. The light emitted from the light source unit 10 enters the cover from the inner surface (top surface) of the cover, is diffused, and exits the cover from the outer surface (bottom surface) of the cover.

[0039] [Operating terminal] The configuration of the operating terminal 2 will be described below.

[0040] As described above, the operating terminal 2 is, for example, a dedicated remote control, but is not limited to a dedicated remote control; it may also be a mobile device such as a smartphone or tablet, or even a wall switch. If the operating terminal 2 is a mobile device such as a smartphone or tablet, dedicated application software for communicating with the lighting device 1 is pre-installed.

[0041] The operating terminal 2 comprises an operating unit 21, a processing unit 22, a display unit 23, a communication unit 24, and a storage unit B1.

[0042] The control unit 21 receives operation inputs related to the output of the light source unit 10 of the lighting device 1. The control unit 21 may include a plurality of operation buttons. The plurality of operation buttons may include an on button to instruct on turning on (e.g., all lights on), an off button to instruct on turning off, a color temperature button to instruct on raising / lowering the correlated color temperature, and a dimming button to instruct on raising / lowering the dimming rate. In addition, the plurality of operation buttons may include a specific button, a first to third selection button, a scene registration button, and a scene selection button, which will be described later.

[0043] In other words, the operation unit 21 can accept an operation input to specify any correlated color temperature within the predetermined range described above. The control unit 13 of the lighting device 1 controls the light source unit 10 to output illumination light of the specified correlated color temperature.

[0044] Furthermore, the operation unit 21 can accept operation input to arbitrarily specify the dimming rate (luminous flux ratio) at a specified correlated color temperature within the range of 0% to 100%. The control unit 13 controls the light source unit 10 to output illumination light at the specified correlated color temperature and dimming rate.

[0045] The processing unit 22 is implemented, for example, by a computer system having one or more processors and one or more memories. In other words, multiple functions of the processing unit 22 can be realized by one or more processors executing a program stored in memory. The program may be pre-stored in memory, provided via a telecommunication line such as the Internet, or provided on a non-temporary recording medium such as a memory card.

[0046] The processing unit 22 generates an instruction signal based on the operation input received by the operation unit 21 and transmits the instruction signal to the lighting device 1 via the communication unit 24.

[0047] For example, if the off button is pressed while the light source unit 10 is lit, the processing unit 22 generates an instruction signal to turn off the light and transmits the instruction signal to the lighting device 1 via the communication unit 24. As a result, the light source unit 10 is controlled to turn off.

[0048] For example, if the power button is pressed while the light source unit 10 is off, the processing unit 22 generates an instruction signal to turn on all lights and transmits the instruction signal to the lighting device 1 via the communication unit 24. As a result, the light source unit 10 is controlled to turn on all lights. When "all lights are on," as described above, the ratio of the luminous flux of the first light to the luminous flux of the second light is the same, and illumination light with a correlated color temperature of 6200K is output.

[0049] For example, when a color temperature button that instructs to raise (or lower) the correlated color temperature is pressed, the processing unit 22 generates an instruction signal that instructs to raise (or lower) the correlated color temperature and transmits the instruction signal to the lighting device 1 via the communication unit 24. As a result, the correlated color temperature of the illumination light output from the light source unit 10 is changed in the direction of being raised (or lowered).

[0050] For example, when a dimming button that instructs to increase (or decrease) the dimming rate is pressed, the processing unit 22 generates an instruction signal that instructs to increase (or decrease) the dimming rate and transmits the instruction signal to the lighting device 1 via the communication unit 24. As a result, the dimming rate of the illumination light output from the light source unit 10 is changed in the direction of increasing (or decreasing) it.

[0051] Furthermore, the processing unit 22 displays information such as the current lighting status of the light source unit 10, dimming rate, and correlated color temperature on the display unit 23, corresponding to the operation input received by the operation unit 21. The display unit 23 is a display (for example, a liquid crystal display). The display unit 23 is not essential for the operation terminal 2 and may be omitted.

[0052] The display unit 23 may be a touch panel display. In particular, if the operating terminal 2 is a mobile device such as a smartphone or tablet, the display unit 23 may be a touch panel display. If the display unit 23 is a touch panel display, the display unit 23 may also have the functions of the operating unit 21. That is, the display unit 23 may display button areas (image areas) on the screen that correspond to the above-mentioned multiple operation buttons (on button, off button, color temperature button, dimming button, specific button, 1st to 3rd selection buttons, scene registration button, and scene selection button, etc.). When the user performs a tap operation on the button area on the screen, the operating unit 21 (display unit 23) receives operation input related to the output of the light source unit 10 of the lighting device 1.

[0053] The communication unit 24 has a communication interface with the communication unit 14 of the lighting device 1, for example, for wireless communication. The communication unit 24 transmits instruction signals generated by the processing unit 22 to the communication unit 14 of the lighting device 1 via the communication path L1.

[0054] By the way, in this embodiment, as an example, a dedicated button (hereinafter also referred to as the "specific button") is provided for specifying the correlated color temperature within the first range (i.e., the upper limit of 7800K). When the user operates the color temperature button to instruct an increase or decrease in the correlated color temperature, the processing unit 22, for example, imposes a restriction so that it can only be increased or decreased from the lower limit (3500K) to 6500K. This restriction function may be provided in the control unit 13 of the lighting device 1 instead of the processing unit 22.

[0055] In other words, even if the user continuously presses (or holds down) the color temperature button to raise the correlated color temperature to the maximum, the processing unit 22 does not send an instruction signal to the lighting device 1 to raise it above 6500K, but only sends an instruction signal for 6500K, so that the temperature will only rise to, for example, 6500K, through the operation of the color temperature button alone. When the user presses a specific button, the processing unit 22 sends an instruction signal to the lighting device 1 to raise it to the upper limit of 7800K. In other words, when the user presses a specific button, the processing unit 22 instructs the lighting device 1 to operate in a specific operating mode that outputs illumination light with a correlated color temperature of 7800K. As a result, the control unit 13 of the lighting device 1 executes the specific operating mode and controls it to output illumination light with a correlated color temperature of 7800K, that is, it lights up only the first light source 11 and turns off the second light source 12.

[0056] Furthermore, if the user presses the specific button again while 7800K illumination light is being output, the processing unit 22 sends an instruction signal to the lighting device 1 to cancel the specific operation mode that outputs 7800K illumination light. As a result, the lighting device 1 cancels the specific operation mode and returns to the state where it outputs 6200K illumination light, for example, when all lights are on.

[0057] The memory unit B1 includes an electrically rewritable non-volatile semiconductor memory such as flash memory. The memory unit B1 pre-stores operation setting information regarding which operation corresponds to which action when any of the operation buttons on the operation unit 21 is operated, such as turning on the light, turning off the light, raising / lowering the correlated color temperature, raising / lowering the dimming rate, and operating in a specific operation mode. When an operation button on the operation unit 21 is operated, the processing unit 22 refers to the operation setting information in the memory unit B1 to determine which operation corresponds to that operation button and performs processing such as generating an instruction signal.

[0058] Furthermore, the memory unit B1 pre-stores, for example, color temperature setting information (preset scene information) as described later. The memory unit B1 can also store (store) output information, as described later, in response to user input.

[0059] [Using preset lighting scenes] In this embodiment, for example, one or more preset lighting scenes are stored in the memory unit B1, and the user can select one of the one or more lighting scenes by operating the operation terminal 2, at which point the lighting device 1 outputs color temperature light (illumination light) corresponding to the selected lighting scene.

[0060] Specifically, memory unit B1 stores color temperature setting information related to the correlated color temperature of the illumination light. The color temperature setting information includes one or more (for example, all three) of the following: information on the first color temperature light, information on the second color temperature light, and information on the third color temperature light. The first color temperature light is light whose correlated color temperature is within the first range of 7000K to 8800K. The second color temperature light is light whose correlated color temperature is within the range of 3000K to less than 3750K. The third color temperature light is light whose correlated color temperature is within the range of 3750K to 4500K.

[0061] The operation unit 21 can accept operation inputs to specify color temperature light based on color temperature setting information stored in the memory unit B1. The control unit 13 controls the light source unit 10 to output the color temperature light specified by the operation unit 21 as illumination light.

[0062] For example, the control unit 21 may include first to third selection buttons for selecting the first to third lighting scenes, respectively.

[0063] When a user selects a first lighting scene by pressing the first selection button on the operation unit 21, the processing unit 22 reads information about the first color temperature light from the storage unit B1 as the illumination light corresponding to the first lighting scene. The processing unit 22 then sends an instruction signal to the lighting device 1 so that the read first color temperature light is output from the light source unit 10. The first color temperature light is light within a first range of correlated color temperature between 7000K and 8800K, and in this example, it is light at 7800K. In other words, the illumination light output by operating the first selection button is the same as the illumination light output by operating a specific button. The first selection button may be a specific button.

[0064] Furthermore, if the user selects a second lighting scene by pressing the second selection button on the operation unit 21, the processing unit 22 reads information about the second color temperature light from the storage unit B1 as the illumination light corresponding to the second lighting scene. Then, the processing unit 22 sends an instruction signal to the lighting device 1 so that the read second color temperature light is output from the light source unit 10.

[0065] Furthermore, if the user selects a third lighting scene by pressing the third selection button on the operation unit 21, the processing unit 22 reads information about the third color temperature light from the storage unit B1 as the lighting light corresponding to the third lighting scene. Then, the processing unit 22 sends an instruction signal to the lighting device 1 so that the read third color temperature light is output from the light source unit 10.

[0066] Therefore, users can easily utilize illumination light with correlated color temperature according to the scene by operating the control unit 21, improving convenience.

[0067] [Registration and use of lighting scenes] In this embodiment, the user can change the correlated color temperature of the illumination light by operating the operation terminal 2, and then store (register) the correlated color temperature of the illumination light currently output from the light source unit 10 that is currently lit in the storage unit B1. Specifically, the operation unit 21 can receive operation input to store output information, including the correlated color temperature of the illumination light when the light source unit 10 is lit, in the storage unit B1. For example, the operation unit 21 may include a scene registration button. When the user presses the scene registration button while the light source unit 10 is lit, the processing unit 22 stores (registers) the output information, including the correlated color temperature of the illumination light currently being output, as a user-registered scene in the storage unit B1 in response to the operation of the scene registration button.

[0068] Preferably, the operation unit 21 is capable of receiving operation inputs to store output information, including not only the correlated color temperature of the currently outputting illumination light but also the dimming rate (luminous flux ratio) of the currently outputting illumination light, in the storage unit B1. Preferably, the processing unit 22 stores (registers) the output information, including the correlated color temperature and dimming rate, as a user-registered scene in the storage unit B1 in response to the operation of the scene registration button.

[0069] In this way, the lighting system A1 allows the user to register output information, including the correlated color temperature of the lighting light actually used, as a user-registered scene through operation using the control unit 21.

[0070] Furthermore, the operation unit 21 can accept operation inputs to read output information stored in the memory unit B1. The control unit 13 controls the light source unit 10 to output illumination light based on the read output information. For example, the operation unit 21 may include a scene selection button. When a user presses the scene selection button to select a user-registered scene, the processing unit 22 reads the output information registered as that user-registered scene from the memory unit B1. The processing unit 22 then sends an instruction signal to the lighting device 1 so that illumination light with the correlated color temperature (or correlated color temperature and dimming rate) of the read output information is output from the light source unit 10. As a result, the user can easily reuse illumination scenes with correlated color temperatures (or correlated color temperature and dimming rate) that they have actually used before through operation using the operation unit 21.

[0071] [Relationship between magnitudes of luminous beams] In this embodiment, the output value of the luminous flux is set such that when illumination light with a correlated color temperature in the first range of 7000K to 8800K is output, the luminous flux is greater than when illumination light with a correlated color temperature in the range of 3000K to 6500K is output.

[0072] Specifically, the memory unit B1 stores first output setting information for outputting illumination light at a first luminous flux and second output setting information for outputting illumination light at a second luminous flux greater than the first luminous flux. When the control unit 13 outputs illumination light at a correlated color temperature within the range of 3000K to 6500K, it controls the light source unit 10 to output illumination light at a first luminous flux based on the first output setting information. Also, when the control unit 13 outputs illumination light at a correlated color temperature within the first range, it controls the light source unit 10 to output illumination light at a second luminous flux based on the second output setting information.

[0073] For example, the first output setting information may include multiple output values ​​corresponding to multiple correlated color temperatures within the range of 3000K to 6500K as the first luminous flux. Similarly, the second output setting information may include multiple output values ​​corresponding to multiple correlated color temperatures within the first range of 7000K to 8800K as the second luminous flux. However, all of the multiple output values ​​for the second luminous flux are greater than the multiple output values ​​for the first luminous flux. For example, it is assumed that the output value corresponding to 7800K as the second luminous flux is approximately 1.3 times the output value corresponding to 6200K (fully lit) as the first luminous flux.

[0074] When a user operates the color temperature button on the control unit 21 to instruct an increase (or decrease) in the correlated color temperature, the increase (or decrease) in the correlated color temperature will be performed within the range of 3000K to 6500K. Therefore, the processing unit 22 reads the first output setting information from the storage unit B1. The processing unit 22 extracts one output value of the first luminous flux corresponding to the changed correlated color temperature from the first output setting information. The processing unit 22 includes the extracted output value of the first luminous flux in the instruction signal that instructs an increase (or decrease) in the correlated color temperature and sends the instruction signal to the lighting device 1 via the communication unit 24. As a result, the correlated color temperature of the illumination light output from the light source unit 10 is changed in the direction of increasing (or decreasing). At that time, the illumination light is output with the output value of the first luminous flux corresponding to that correlated color temperature.

[0075] On the other hand, if the user operates a specific button on the control unit 21 to instruct the system to raise the upper limit (in this case, 7800K), the correlated color temperature will be changed to one within the first range of 7000K to 8800K. Therefore, the processing unit 22 reads the second output setting information from the storage unit B1. The processing unit 22 extracts one output value of the second luminous flux corresponding to the changed correlated color temperature (in this case, 7800K) from the second output setting information. The processing unit 22 includes the extracted output value of the second luminous flux in the instruction signal instructing the system to change to the correlated color temperature (in this case, 7800K) and sends the instruction signal to the lighting device 1 via the communication unit 24. As a result, the correlated color temperature of the illumination light output from the light source unit 10 is changed to 7800K (execution of specific operation mode). During the execution of the specific operation mode, the illumination light is output at the output value of the second luminous flux corresponding to 7800K.

[0076] Furthermore, this relationship between the magnitudes of the luminous flux may also apply when any of the 1st to 3rd selection buttons are operated, or when a user-registered scene is reused after the scene selection button has been operated.

[0077] By setting the relative magnitudes of the luminous flux in this way, the illuminance increases when using illumination light with a correlated color temperature within the first range of 7000K to 8800K. As a result, the possibility that elderly users may have difficulty seeing text in newspapers and magazines, or have difficulty performing close-up tasks, can be further reduced.

[0078] [Relationship with average color rendering index] Incidentally, in this embodiment, the average color rendering index Ra is set to fall within the range of 85 or higher and less than 93 for any correlated color temperature within the range of 6150K to 6250K. Here, as an example, we assume that the arbitrary correlated color temperature is 6200K.

[0079] In this embodiment, as described above, when "all lights are on," illumination light of 6200K (correlated color temperature within the range of approximately 6150K to 6250K) is output. The average color rendering index Ra, which is evaluated as being closer to natural light the closer it is to 100, is deliberately lowered to be below 93 and within the range of 85 or higher when "all lights are on." Therefore, energy saving and comfort and functionality for the elderly are achieved simultaneously.

[0080] It is not necessary for all correlated color temperatures within the range of 6150K to 6250K to satisfy the condition that the average color rendering index Ra value is less than 93 and falls within the range of 85 or higher. For example, if only 6200K satisfies this condition, then the other correlated color temperatures within the range of 6150K to 6250K do not need to satisfy it.

[0081] (Operation instructions) The operation of lighting system A1 will be explained below with reference to the flowchart shown in Figure 2. Note that the flowchart shown in Figure 2 is merely one example of the operation flow for lighting system A1, and the order of processing may be changed as appropriate, or processing may be added or omitted as appropriate.

[0082] For example, when the light source unit 10 is turned off, if the user presses the power button on the control unit 21 of the control terminal 2 (step ST1), the control terminal 2 generates an instruction signal to turn on all lights and sends the instruction signal to the lighting device 1. As a result, the light source unit 10 outputs illumination light with a correlated color temperature of 6200K (step ST2: all lights on).

[0083] Next, suppose the user presses the color temperature button on the control unit 21 (Step ST3: Yes). If the operation of the color temperature button is an operation to increase the correlated color temperature (Step ST4: Yes), the control terminal 2 generates an instruction signal to increase the correlated color temperature and transmits the instruction signal to the lighting device 1. The amount to increase from the current correlated color temperature can be determined, for example, by the number of times the color temperature button is pressed or the length of time it is pressed. As a result, the light source unit 10 outputs illumination light with the adjusted correlated color temperature (however, the "increase" is possible up to a maximum of 6500K) (Step ST5). Then, the process returns to Step ST3.

[0084] On the other hand, if the operation of the color temperature button is a decrease operation to lower the correlated color temperature (step ST4: No), the operation terminal 2 generates an instruction signal to lower the correlated color temperature and transmits the instruction signal to the lighting device 1. The amount to which the correlated color temperature is lowered from the current correlated color temperature can be determined, for example, by the number of times the color temperature button is pressed or the length of time it is pressed. As a result, the light source unit 10 outputs illumination light with the adjusted correlated color temperature (however, "lowering" is possible down to a minimum of 3500K) (step ST6). Then, the process returns to step ST3.

[0085] Next, suppose the user does not press the color temperature button on the control unit 21 (Step ST3: No), but presses a specific button on the control unit 21 (Step ST7: Yes). The control terminal 2 generates an instruction signal to set the correlated color temperature to 7800K and sends the instruction signal to the lighting device 1. As a result, the light source unit 10 outputs illumination light with a correlated color temperature of 7800K (Step ST8: Execution of specific operation mode).

[0086] Suppose the user presses a specific button again while the illumination light with a correlated color temperature of 7800K is being output, that is, performs a release operation to cancel the specific operating mode that outputs 7800K illumination light (Step ST9: Yes). Then the process returns to Step ST2, and illumination light with a correlated color temperature of 6200K is output (all lights on).

[0087] If, while the illumination light with a correlated color temperature of 7800K is being output, the user presses the off button on the operation unit 21 without pressing a specific button again (step ST9: No) (step ST10: Yes), the operation terminal 2 generates an instruction signal to turn off the lights and sends the instruction signal to the illumination device 1. As a result, the light source unit 10 turns off (step ST12), and the process ends. As long as no release operation is performed (step ST9: No) and the off button is not pressed (step ST10: No), the illumination light with a correlated color temperature of 7800K continues to be output.

[0088] Returning to step ST7, if the specific button on the control unit 21 is not pressed (step ST7: No), but the off button on the control unit 21 is pressed (step ST11: Yes), the light source unit 10 turns off (step ST12), and the process ends. If the off button is not pressed (step ST11: No), the process returns to step ST3. In other words, the output of the illumination light continues.

[0089] Although not shown in the flowchart in Figure 2, the user can increase or decrease the dimming rate of the illumination light by pressing the dimming button while the illumination light is outputting. Furthermore, the user can use the corresponding preset illumination scene by pressing one of the 1st to 3rd selection buttons while the illumination light is outputting. Additionally, the user can register the output information, including the correlated color temperature of the currently outputting illumination light, as a user-registered scene by pressing the scene registration button while the illumination light is outputting. Finally, the user can retrieve the output information registered as a user-registered scene by pressing the scene selection button while the illumination light is outputting, allowing the user to reuse an illumination scene with a correlated color temperature previously registered.

[0090] (advantage) As described above, according to the illumination system A1 of the embodiment, the correlated color temperature of the illumination light is set to fall within a predetermined range, with an upper limit of 7000K to 8800K in the first range and a lower limit of 3000K to 4500K in the second range. In the above example, the upper limit is 7800K and the lower limit is 3500K.

[0091] Table 1 below shows the changes in the light characteristics reaching the retina at ages 25, 60, 70, and 80, with the changes in Tc (color temperature) and Duv (color deviation) for the same light source relative to the eye of a 0-year-old. From Table 1, it can be seen that the color temperature reaching the human eye shifts to the lower temperature side with age.

[0092] [Table 1]

[0093] Figure 3 shows the change in spectral transmittance of light reaching the retina at different ages (25, 60, 70, and 80), with the horizontal axis representing the wavelength of light (nm). From Figure 3, it can be seen that with age, the spectral transmittance of lower wavelength light reaching the human retina, i.e., blue light (380nm to 500nm), decreases significantly.

[0094] Therefore, in the lighting system A1 according to this embodiment, the upper limit is set to shift to a correlated color temperature region higher than 6500K so that elderly people, whose vision is more impaired than that of younger people, can easily see the text in newspapers and magazines and perform tasks at close range. In addition, the optical system of the eye of the elderly has a particularly low transmittance of short-wavelength light among visible light compared to younger people, and the light that reaches the retina of the elderly tends to have a yellowish tint. Taking this into consideration, the lower limit is set to shift to a correlated color temperature region higher than 2700K so as not to cause discomfort to the elderly.

[0095] As a result, lighting system A1 has the advantage of making it easier to provide lighting that is considerate of the elderly.

[0096] (modified version) Several variations are listed below. For each variation of the lighting system A1 described below, elements similar to those in the lighting system A1 according to the above embodiment may be given the same reference numerals and their descriptions may be omitted as appropriate.

[0097] [Example 1] The following describes lighting system A1 (also simply referred to as Modification 1) relating to Modification 1, with reference to Figure 4.

[0098] Modification 1 differs from the lighting system A1 according to the above embodiment in that the storage unit B1 is provided in the lighting device 1, as shown in Figure 4.

[0099] Specifically, the lighting device 1 of the modified example 1 includes a memory unit B1. The memory unit B1 of the lighting device 1 stores (stores) operation setting information related to the operation of turning on, turning off, raising / lowering correlated color temperature, raising / lowering dimming rate, and operation of specific operation modes. The memory unit B1 of the lighting device 1 also stores (stores) color temperature setting information (preset scene information). The memory unit B1 of the lighting device 1 can also store (register) output information (user registered scene information). The memory unit B1 of the lighting device 1 also stores (stores) first output setting information and second output setting information.

[0100] The operation terminal 2 transmits an instruction signal to the lighting device 1 that includes identification information for identifying the operated operation button. Based on the instruction signal, the control unit 13 of the lighting device 1, if the operated operation button is not a scene registration button, refers to the operation setting information, color temperature setting information, output information, first output setting information, and second output setting information in the storage unit B1 and executes the corresponding processing. Also, based on the instruction signal, if the operated operation button is a scene registration button, the control unit 13 of the lighting device 1 stores (registers) the output information, including the correlated color temperature of the currently outputting illumination light, as a user-registered scene in the storage unit B1.

[0101] The storage unit B1 of the lighting device 1 is not limited to storing all of the operation setting information, color temperature setting information, output information, first output setting information, and second output setting information, but may store only some of this information. Other information not stored by the storage unit B1 of the lighting device 1 may be stored by the storage unit B1 of the operation terminal 2 (see Figure 1), as in the above embodiment.

[0102] Even in the configuration of Modification 1, it becomes easier to provide lighting that is considerate of the elderly.

[0103] [Differentiation 2] The following describes lighting system A1 (also simply referred to as Modification 2) relating to Modification 2, with reference to Figure 5.

[0104] Modification 2 differs from the lighting system A1 according to the above embodiment in that the storage unit B1 is provided on the server 3, as shown in Figure 5.

[0105] Server 3 is installed outside a facility such as a house where lighting device 1 is installed. Server 3 is implemented by a computer system having, for example, one or more processors and one or more memories. In other words, multiple functions of Server 3 are realized by one or more processors executing programs stored in memory. The programs may be pre-stored in memory, provided via telecommunication lines such as the Internet, or provided on non-temporary recording media such as memory cards.

[0106] Server 3 may consist of one or more server devices. If Server 3 consists of multiple server devices, these multiple server devices may form a cloud (cloud computing).

[0107] Server 3 can communicate with lighting system A1 via network NT1 (see Figure 5), such as the Internet. In the example in Figure 5, server 3 can communicate with the operating terminal 2 of lighting system A1. For example, a facility such as a house is equipped with a communication device (gateway) for communicating with the outside world, and the transmission and reception of signals between the operating terminal 2 and server 3 takes place via the gateway and network NT1. Server 3 may also be able to communicate with lighting device 1 via the gateway and network NT1.

[0108] Server 3 can communicate not only with one operating terminal 2, but also with multiple operating terminals 2 used in one or more residential or other facilities. Furthermore, Server 3 may not only communicate with one lighting device 1, but also with multiple lighting devices 1 used in one or more residential or other facilities.

[0109] As shown in Figure 5, Server 3 comprises a processing unit 31 and a storage unit B1. The storage unit B1 of Server 3 stores (stores) operation setting information related to the operation of turning on, turning off, raising / lowering correlated color temperature, raising / lowering dimming rate, and operation of specific operation modes. The storage unit B1 of Server 3 also stores (stores) color temperature setting information (preset scene information). Furthermore, the storage unit B1 of Server 3 can store (register) output information (user registered scene information). In addition, the storage unit B1 of Server 3 stores (stores) first output setting information and second output setting information.

[0110] The operating terminal 2 sends a terminal signal to the server 3 containing identification information to identify the operated button. Based on the terminal signal, the processing unit 31 of the server 3, if the operated button is not a scene registration button, instructs the operating terminal 2 to refer to the operation setting information, color temperature setting information, output information, first output setting information, and second output setting information, etc., in the storage unit B1 and execute the corresponding process. Based on the instruction received from the server 3, the operating terminal 2 sends an instruction signal to the lighting device 1 to execute the corresponding process. Also, based on the instruction signal, if the operated button is a scene registration button, the processing unit 31 stores (registers) the output information, including the correlated color temperature of the currently outputting illumination light, as a user-registered scene in the storage unit B1.

[0111] The storage unit B1 of server 3 is not limited to storing all of the operation setting information, color temperature setting information, output information, first output setting information, and second output setting information, but may store only some of this information. Other information not stored by the storage unit B1 of server 3 may be stored by the storage unit B1 of the operation terminal 2 (see Figure 1), as in the above embodiment, or by the storage unit B1 of the lighting device 1 (see Figure 4), as in the above modified example 1.

[0112] Furthermore, when server 3 receives a terminal signal from operation terminal 2, if the operated button is not a scene registration button, server 3 may instruct lighting device 1 to execute the corresponding process directly, without going through operation terminal 2.

[0113] Alternatively, the operating terminal 2 may transmit a terminal signal to the lighting device 1, which in turn may transmit the terminal signal to the server 3 via the lighting device 1. The server 3 may then instruct the lighting device 1 that transmitted the terminal signal to perform the corresponding processing.

[0114] In the configuration of Modification 2, it becomes easier to provide lighting that is considerate of the elderly.

[0115] [Difference 3] The following describes lighting system A1 (also simply referred to as Modification 3) related to Modification 3, with reference to Figure 6.

[0116] Modification 3 differs from the lighting system A1 according to the above embodiment in that the operating terminal 2 further includes a determination unit C1, as shown in Figure 6.

[0117] Specifically, the lighting system A1 of the modified example 3 further includes a determination unit C1 that reads the time when the operation unit 21 receives an operation input for specifying the correlated color temperature. The determination unit C1 does not permit the output of illumination light according to the correlated color temperature if the specified correlated color temperature is within a first range (7000K to 8800K) and the operation time is outside a predetermined time range. In the example of the above embodiment, if the specified correlated color temperature is 7800K, that is, if a specific button (or first selection button) on the operation unit 21 is operated, the operation time becomes the subject of determination by the determination unit C1. In addition, if the correlated color temperature of the output information read out when the scene selection button is operated is within the first range, the operation time also becomes the subject of determination by the determination unit C1.

[0118] The determination unit C1 is implemented, for example, by a computer system having one or more processors and one or more memories. In other words, the function of the determination unit C1 is realized by one or more processors executing a program stored in memory. The program may be pre-stored in memory, provided via a telecommunication line such as the Internet, or provided on a non-temporary recording medium such as a memory card. Alternatively, the function of the determination unit C1 may be provided in the processing unit 22.

[0119] In Modification 3, the specified time period is assumed to be during the daytime (for example, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM), but this is not limited to that. Memory unit B1 stores information about the specified time period in advance. Multiple specified time periods may be prepared, for example, depending on the season in which the lighting system A1 is used.

[0120] When a specific button on the operation unit 21 is operated, the processing unit 22 instructs the determination unit C1 to perform a determination process. The determination unit C1 refers to the built-in timer, reads the time the specific button was operated, and performs a determination process to determine whether the time of operation is outside a predetermined time range. If the time of operation is, for example, 9 p.m., it is outside the predetermined time range, and therefore the determination unit C1 does not permit the output of illumination light with a correlated color temperature of 7800K. For example, based on the result of the determination unit C1's denial, the processing unit 22 does not send an instruction signal to the illumination device 1 to instruct the execution of a specific operation mode, even if the specific button (or first selection button) on the operation unit 21 is operated. As a result, even if the specific button (or first selection button) is operated, illumination light with a correlated color temperature of 7800K is not output from the light source unit 10, and the output of illumination light with the current correlated color temperature is maintained.

[0121] According to the configuration of Modified Example 3, the use of illumination light with correlated color temperature (e.g., 7800K) within the first range can be restricted outside of a predetermined time range (e.g., during nighttime hours). Therefore, it is possible to provide illumination light that takes circadian rhythms into consideration, for example.

[0122] As another example of the 3rd modification, the function of the determination unit C1 may be provided in the lighting device 1, or it may be provided in the server 3 (see Figure 5).

[0123] [Other variations] Functions similar to those of the lighting system A1 according to the above embodiment may be implemented by a lighting control method, a computer program, or a non-temporary recording medium on which a computer program is stored.

[0124] The lighting system A1 in this disclosure includes a computer system. The computer system mainly consists of a processor and memory as hardware. The functions of the lighting system A1 in this disclosure are realized by the processor executing a program recorded in the memory of the computer system. The program may be pre-recorded in the memory of the computer system, provided via a telecommunications line, or provided on a non-temporary recording medium such as a memory card, optical disk, or hard disk drive that can be read by the computer system. The processor of the computer system consists of one or more electronic circuits including semiconductor integrated circuits (ICs) or large-scale integrated circuits (LSIs). The integrated circuits such as ICs or LSIs referred to here are named differently depending on the degree of integration, and include integrated circuits called system LSIs, VLSIs (Very Large Scale Integration), or ULSIs (Ultra Large Scale Integration). Furthermore, FPGAs (Field-Programmable Gate Arrays) that are programmed after the manufacture of the LSI, or logic devices that allow for the reconfiguration of junction relationships or circuit compartments within the LSI, can also be used as processors. Multiple electronic circuits may be integrated onto a single chip or distributed across multiple chips. Multiple chips may be integrated onto a single device or distributed across multiple devices. The computer system referred to here includes a microcontroller having one or more processors and one or more memories. Therefore, the microcontroller also consists of one or more electronic circuits, including semiconductor integrated circuits or large-scale integrated circuits.

[0125] Furthermore, it is not essential that the multiple functions of lighting system A1 be integrated into a single housing. For example, the components of lighting system A1 may be distributed across multiple housings.

[0126] Conversely, multiple functions of lighting system A1 may be integrated into a single housing. Furthermore, at least some of the functions of lighting system A1, for example, some of the functions of lighting system A1, may be implemented by the cloud (cloud computing), etc.

[0127] In the above embodiment, when the correlated color temperature is raised or lowered by operating the color temperature button, it is set so that it can only be raised or lowered from 3500K (lower limit) to 6500K. Furthermore, it is set so that the correlated color temperature can be raised to 7800K (upper limit) by operating a specific button. However, this is not limited to this, and for example, if there is no specific button, the correlated color temperature can be raised or lowered between 3500K (lower limit) and 7800K (upper limit) simply by operating the color temperature button.

[0128] In the above embodiment, the first light source 11 is a light source corresponding to 7800K (upper limit), and the second light source 12 is a light source corresponding to 3500K (lower limit). When outputting illumination light at 7800K (upper limit), only the first light source 11 is lit, and when outputting illumination light at 3500K (lower limit), only the second light source 12 is lit. In other words, the hardware configuration (configuration of the light source unit 10) is also configured to easily achieve "setting the correlated color temperature to fall within a predetermined range."

[0129] However, this is not limited to the above, and the first light source 11 may be a light source capable of outputting light with a correlated color temperature higher than 7800K (upper limit), and / or the second light source 12 may be a light source capable of outputting light with a correlated color temperature lower than 3500K (lower limit). In this case, "setting the correlated color temperature to fall within a predetermined range" may be achieved solely by the configuration (software configuration) of the control unit 13 of the lighting device 1 or the processing unit 22 of the operation terminal 2. For example, the control unit 13 may adjust the ratio of the luminous flux of the first light and the luminous flux of the second light so that illumination light with a correlated color temperature of 7800K (upper limit) or 3500K (lower limit) is output. Alternatively, for example, the processing unit 22 may send an instruction signal to the lighting device 1 to adjust the ratio of the luminous flux of the first light and the luminous flux of the second light so that illumination light with a correlated color temperature of 7800K (upper limit) or 3500K (lower limit) is output. In short, the light source unit 10 itself can output illumination light with correlated color temperatures wider than a predetermined range, and this can be controlled by the software configuration.

[0130] In the above embodiment, the operation unit 21 is of the button type (on button, off button, color temperature button, dimming button, specific button, first to third selection buttons, scene registration button, and scene selection button). However, it is not limited to this, and at least one of the above-mentioned operation buttons (for example, the dimming button or the color temperature button) may be of the dial type. Also, if the operation terminal 2 is a smartphone or tablet terminal, a dial area (image area) may be displayed on the screen of the display unit 23 instead of the button area (image area). Also, instead of a specific button, switching to a specific operation mode may be achieved by, for example, a DIP switch. The DIP switch may be provided on the operation terminal 2 or on the lighting device 1.

[0131] In the above embodiment, the user-registered scene is recalled by pressing the scene selection button. However, this is not limited to this, and the user-registered scene may be recalled automatically each time the user presses the power button. In other words, when the light source unit 10 switches from the off state to the on state, the illumination light with the registered correlated color temperature may be automatically output each time.

[0132] In the above embodiment, the lighting system A1 is set so that the correlated color temperature falls within a predetermined range, for example, for elderly people (referred to as the elderly-friendly mode). However, in order to make the lighting system A1 easier for people other than the elderly (for example, young people) to use, a normal mode may be additionally provided as an operating mode, in which the correlated color temperature falls within a range from 2700K to 6500K, with 2700K as the lower limit and 6500K as the upper limit, as described in Patent Document 1. Switching between the normal mode and the elderly-friendly mode may be performed by switching a DIP switch or the like provided on the lighting device 1 or the operation terminal 2.

[0133] (summary) Based on the embodiments described above, the following aspects are disclosed.

[0134] The first embodiment of the lighting system (A1) comprises a light source unit (10) that outputs illumination light, an operation unit (21), and a control unit (13). The operation unit (21) receives operation inputs related to the output of the light source unit (10). The control unit (13) controls the output of the light source unit (10) based on instructions corresponding to the operation inputs. The correlated color temperature of the illumination light is set to fall within a predetermined range defined by an upper limit and a lower limit. The upper limit is a value within a first range of 7000K to 8800K. The lower limit is a value within a second range of 3000K to 4500K.

[0135] According to the above embodiment, the correlated color temperature of the illumination light is set to fall within a predetermined range, with an upper limit of 7000K to 8800K (first range) and a lower limit of 3000K to 4500K (second range). As a result, the lighting system (A1) has the advantage of making it easier to provide illumination that is considerate of the elderly.

[0136] With respect to the lighting system (A1) according to the second embodiment, in the first embodiment, the second range is 3000K or more and 4000K or less.

[0137] According to the above embodiment, lighting that is more considerate of the elderly can be provided.

[0138] With respect to the lighting system (A1) according to the third embodiment, in the first or second embodiment, the light source unit (10) includes at least two types of light sources (11, 12) whose correlated color temperatures of the output light are different from each other.

[0139] According to the above embodiment, it becomes easier to provide illumination light with a correlated color temperature that falls within a predetermined range.

[0140] With respect to the lighting system (A1) according to the fourth embodiment, in the third embodiment, the light source unit (10) includes, as two types of light sources, a first light source (11) capable of outputting first light of a correlated color temperature within a first range, and a second light source (12) capable of outputting second light of a correlated color temperature within a second range.

[0141] According to the above embodiment, it becomes easier to provide illumination light with a correlated color temperature that falls within a predetermined range.

[0142] The fifth embodiment of the lighting system (A1) further includes a storage unit (B1) that stores color temperature setting information relating to the correlated color temperature of the illumination light, in any one of the first to fourth embodiments. The color temperature setting information includes one or more of the following: information on a first color temperature light whose correlated color temperature is within a first range; information on a second color temperature light whose correlated color temperature is in the range of 3000K or more and less than 3750K; and information on a third color temperature light whose correlated color temperature is in the range of 3750K or more and 4500K or less. The operation unit (21) can accept operation inputs for specifying a color temperature light based on the color temperature setting information stored in the storage unit (B1). The control unit (13) controls the light source unit (10) to output the color temperature light specified by the operation unit (21) as illumination light.

[0143] According to the above embodiment, illumination light with correlated color temperature according to the scene can be easily used by operating the control unit (21), thereby improving convenience.

[0144] With respect to the illumination system (A1) according to the sixth embodiment, in any one of the first to fifth embodiments, the operation unit (21) is capable of receiving an operation input for specifying any correlated color temperature within a predetermined range. The control unit (13) controls the light source unit (10) to output illumination light of the specified correlated color temperature.

[0145] According to the above embodiment, the user can easily specify any correlated color temperature within a predetermined range by operating the control unit (21), thereby improving convenience.

[0146] The lighting system (A1) according to the seventh embodiment further includes a determination unit (C1) that reads the time when the operation unit (21) receives an operation input for specifying the correlated color temperature. The determination unit (C1) does not permit the output of illumination light at the correlated color temperature if the specified correlated color temperature is within a first range and the operation time is outside a predetermined time range.

[0147] According to the above embodiment, the use of illumination light based on correlated color temperature outside of a predetermined time range can be restricted.

[0148] With respect to the lighting system (A1) according to the eighth embodiment, in the sixth embodiment, the operating unit (21) is capable of receiving an operation input to arbitrarily specify the dimming rate at a specified correlated color temperature within the range of 0% to 100%. The control unit (13) controls the light source unit (10) to output illumination light at the specified correlated color temperature and dimming rate.

[0149] According to the above embodiment, the user can easily specify both correlated color temperature and dimming rate by operating the control unit (21), improving convenience.

[0150] The lighting system (A1) according to the ninth embodiment further comprises a storage unit (B1) in any one of the first to eighth embodiments. The operation unit (21) is capable of receiving operation inputs to store output information, including the correlated color temperature of the illumination light when the light source unit (10) is lit, in the storage unit (B1).

[0151] According to the above embodiment, the user can store output information, including the correlated color temperature of the illumination light actually used, in the storage unit (B1) through operation by the operation unit (21), thereby improving convenience.

[0152] With respect to the lighting system (A1) according to the tenth embodiment, in the ninth embodiment, the operation unit (21) is capable of receiving operation input for reading output information stored in the memory unit (B1). The control unit (13) controls the light source unit (10) to output illumination light based on the read output information.

[0153] According to the above embodiment, the user can reuse illumination light with a correlated color temperature that they have actually used before by operating the control unit (21), thereby improving convenience.

[0154] The 11th embodiment of the lighting system (A1) further includes a memory unit (B1) in any one of the first to tenth embodiments. The memory unit (B1) stores first output setting information for outputting illumination light at a first luminous flux and second output setting information for outputting illumination light at a second luminous flux greater than the first luminous flux. When the control unit (13) outputs illumination light at a correlated color temperature within the range of 3000K to 6500K, it controls the light source unit (10) to output illumination light at a first luminous flux based on the first output setting information. The control unit (13) also controls the light source unit (10) to output illumination light at a second luminous flux based on the second output setting information when the correlated color temperature is within the first range.

[0155] According to the above embodiment, when using illumination light with a correlated color temperature within the first range, the illuminance becomes high, which can further reduce the possibility that it will be difficult to see text in newspapers and magazines, and that it will be difficult to perform tasks at close range.

[0156] The configurations relating to aspects 2 through 11 are not essential to the lighting system (A1) and may be omitted as appropriate. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0157] A1 Lighting System 10 Light source section 11 1st light source 12 Second light source 13 Control Unit 21 Control section B1 storage section C1 Judgment part

Claims

1. A light source unit that outputs illumination light, An operation unit that receives operation inputs related to the output of the light source unit, A control unit that controls the output of the light source unit based on instructions corresponding to the aforementioned operation input, Equipped with, The correlated color temperature of the illumination light is set to fall within a predetermined range defined by an upper limit and a lower limit. The aforementioned upper limit shall be a value within the first range of 7000K to 8800K. The aforementioned lower limit is set to a value within the second range of 3000K to 4500K. Lighting system.

2. The second range mentioned above is 3000K or more and 4000K or less. The lighting system according to claim 1.

3. The light source unit includes at least two light sources whose outputtable correlated color temperatures are different from each other. The lighting system according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The light source unit uses the two types of light sources as follows: A first light source capable of outputting first light of correlated color temperature within the first range, A second light source capable of outputting second light of correlated color temperature within the second range, including, The lighting system according to claim 3.

5. The system further includes a storage unit that stores color temperature setting information relating to the correlated color temperature of the illumination light, The aforementioned color temperature setting information is, Information of first color temperature light whose correlated color temperature is within the first range, Information on second-color temperature light whose correlated color temperature is in the range of 3000K or more and less than 3750K, and It includes one or more pieces of information from third-color temperature light whose correlated color temperature is in the range of 3750K to 4500K, The operation unit is capable of receiving operation inputs for specifying color temperature light based on the color temperature setting information stored in the memory unit. The control unit controls the light source unit to output the color temperature light specified by the operation unit as the illumination light. The lighting system according to claim 1 or 2.

6. The operation unit is capable of receiving operation inputs for specifying any correlated color temperature within the predetermined range. The control unit controls the light source unit to output the illumination light of the specified correlated color temperature. The lighting system according to claim 1 or 2.

7. The system further includes a determination unit that reads the time at which the operation unit received the operation input for specifying the correlated color temperature, The determination unit, if the specified correlated color temperature is within the first range of correlated color temperatures, and if the operation time is outside the predetermined time range, does not permit the output of the illumination light based on the correlated color temperature. The lighting system according to claim 6.

8. The aforementioned operating unit is capable of receiving an operation input to arbitrarily specify the dimming rate at the specified correlated color temperature within the range of 0% to 100%, The control unit controls the light source unit to output the illumination light with the specified correlated color temperature and dimming ratio. The lighting system according to claim 6.

9. It also has a memory unit, The operation unit is capable of receiving an operation input for storing output information, including the correlated color temperature of the illumination light when the light source unit is lit, in the storage unit. The lighting system according to claim 1 or 2.

10. The operation unit is capable of receiving operation inputs for reading the output information stored in the storage unit. The control unit controls the light source unit to output the illumination light based on the output information read out. The lighting system according to claim 9.

11. The system further includes a storage unit that stores first output setting information for outputting the illumination light at a first luminous flux, and second output setting information for outputting the illumination light at a second luminous flux greater than the first luminous flux. The control unit, When outputting the illumination light at a correlated color temperature within the range of 3000K to 6500K, the light source unit is controlled to output the illumination light at the first luminous flux based on the first output setting information. When the illumination light is output at a correlated color temperature within the first range, the light source unit is controlled to output the illumination light with a second luminous flux based on the second output setting information. The lighting system according to claim 1 or 2.

Images