Lighting support system and lighting system

Abstract

Ensure that adequate lighting is provided even in small spaces separated by partitions. [Solution] One aspect of the present invention is a lighting assistance system. The lighting assistance system includes an infrared radiation source that emits infrared rays. The lighting assistance system includes a control device that controls the infrared radiation source. The infrared radiation source is positioned so that the infrared rays emitted from the infrared radiation source can be detected by an infrared detection sensor used in the lighting fixture. The control device controls the infrared radiation source to repeatedly switch on and off.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a lighting assistance system and a lighting system.

Background Art

[0002] In office buildings, as part of energy-saving measures, equipment that automatically turns off the lighting in areas where there is no one using an infrared detection sensor is widely introduced. The infrared detection sensor operates by detecting changes in far-infrared rays emitted from the human body. However, in recent years, due to changes in office layouts, especially the increase in the height of partitions, the cases where the visual field of the infrared detection sensor is restricted are increasing. As a result, in offices with high partitions, there is a problem that the lighting turns off even though there are actually people.

[0003] To address such problems, technologies for arranging and adjusting the visual field of the infrared detection sensor have been carried out, but there are still many cases where false detections and inappropriate lighting controls occur. Behind this is the sensitivity limit due to the infrared detection sensor simply detecting temperature changes. Also, the technology described in Patent Document 1 attempts to prevent false detections by providing partition parts to the infrared detection sensor.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] The present invention aims to improve the convenience of the lighting system. In particular, it is an object of the present invention to provide appropriate lighting even in small spaces partitioned by partitions and the like.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] One aspect of the present invention is a lighting assistance system. The lighting assistance system includes an infrared radiation source that emits infrared rays. The lighting assistance system includes a control device that controls the infrared radiation source. The infrared radiation source is positioned so that the infrared rays emitted from the infrared radiation source can be detected by an infrared detection sensor used in the lighting fixture. The control device controls the infrared radiation source to repeatedly switch on and off.

[0007] One aspect of the present invention is a lighting system. The lighting system includes a lighting fixture that uses an infrared detection sensor. The lighting system includes a lighting auxiliary system. The lighting auxiliary system includes an infrared radiation source that emits infrared rays. The lighting auxiliary system includes a control device that controls the infrared radiation source. The infrared radiation source is positioned so that the infrared rays emitted from the infrared radiation source can be detected by the infrared detection sensor. The control device controls the infrared radiation source so that it repeatedly turns on and off. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] This invention provides infrared radiation that can be detected by an infrared detection sensor by using an infrared radiation source. As a result, this invention can provide an appropriate lighting environment. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This figure shows an example of lighting system 100. [Figure 2] Figure 1 shows an example of the configuration of the microcontroller 123. [Figure 3] Figure 2 is a flowchart showing an example of processing by the microcontroller 123. [Figure 4] This flowchart shows an example of the control process for the high-power infrared LED 121 that is performed in S12. [Figure 5] This figure shows another example of the lighting system 100. [Figure 6]Figure 5 shows an example of the configuration of the microcontroller 123. [Figure 7] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing an example of processing by the microcontroller 123. [Figure 8] This figure shows another example of the lighting system 100. [Figure 9] Figure 8 shows an example of the configuration of the microcontroller 123. [Figure 10] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing an example of processing by the microcontroller 123. [Figure 11] This figure shows another example of the lighting system 100. [Figure 12] Figure 11 shows an example of the configuration of the microcontroller 123. [Figure 13] Figure 12 is a flowchart showing an example of processing by the microcontroller 123. [Figure 14] This figure shows another example of the configuration of the microcontroller 123 shown in Figure 1. [Figure 15] Figure 14 is a flowchart showing an example of processing by the microcontroller 123. [Figure 16] Figure 5 shows another example of the configuration of the microcontroller 123. [Figure 17] Figure 16 is a flowchart showing an example of processing by the microcontroller 123. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] The present invention will be described below through embodiments, but these embodiments are not intended to limit the invention as defined in the claims. Furthermore, not all combinations of features described in the embodiments are necessarily essential to the solution of the invention.

[0011] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a lighting system 100. The lighting system 100 is an assembly of facilities and devices for providing light and is used to illuminate a specific place or space. The lighting system 100 includes a luminaire 110 and a lighting assistance system 120.

[0012] The lighting fixture 110 is a lighting device that automatically turns on and off by detecting the movement of a person (HU). This technology is realized using a pyroelectric infrared sensor 111. The pyroelectric infrared sensor 111 is a pyroelectric element that detects changes in infrared radiation emitted from a moving heat source such as a person (HU). The pyroelectric infrared sensor 111 uses a pyroelectric material and has the characteristic of generating voltage in response to temperature changes, and it uses this voltage change to detect changes in infrared radiation. In particular, when a moving heat source such as a person (HU) moves within the field of view (FV) of the pyroelectric infrared sensor 111, the intensity of the infrared radiation changes, and the pyroelectric infrared sensor 111 detects this change in infrared radiation intensity and recognizes it as movement. The lighting fixture 110 using the pyroelectric infrared sensor 111 automatically turns on when a person (HU) enters the field of view (FV) of the pyroelectric infrared sensor 111, and automatically turns off if no movement of the person (HU) is detected for a certain period of time. As a result, the lighting fixture 110 can save power. Furthermore, lighting fixtures 110 using pyroelectric infrared sensors 111 can reduce unnecessary power consumption and are environmentally friendly. Lighting fixtures 110 using pyroelectric infrared sensors 111 also support work and movement in the dark, improving safety. They can also be used as security measures. Because lighting fixtures 110 using pyroelectric infrared sensors 111 are highly energy-efficient and easy to use, they are widely used in various locations. For example, lighting fixtures 110 using pyroelectric infrared sensors 111 are installed in hallways, entrances, toilets, and stairwells in homes. They can also be installed in common areas and conference rooms in offices, for example. Furthermore, lighting fixtures 110 using pyroelectric infrared sensors 111 are installed in toilets and corridors in public facilities, for example. Finally, lighting fixtures 110 using pyroelectric infrared sensors 111 are installed as outdoor security lighting. In this embodiment, the lighting fixture 110 using the pyroelectric infrared sensor 111 is installed in an office. The pyroelectric infrared sensor 111 is an example of an infrared detection sensor.

[0013] In an embodiment, an office is partitioned into a first space SP1 and a second space SP2 by a partition PA. A lighting fixture 110 is provided on the first space SP1 side of the ceiling CE of the office. A pyroelectric infrared sensor 111 is provided on the second space SP2 side of the ceiling CE. The pyroelectric infrared sensor 111 has its field of view FV blocked by the partition PA and is in a situation where it cannot detect the movement of a person HU even if the person HU moves in the first space SP1.

[0014] A lighting assistance system 120 is a system that enables the use of the lighting fixture 110 even when there is a person HU outside the field of view FV of the pyroelectric infrared sensor 111 in the space where the lighting fixture 110 is provided. In the embodiment, the lighting assistance system 120 enables the use of the lighting fixture 110 even when there is a person HU in the first space SP1 where the field of view FV of the pyroelectric infrared sensor 111 is blocked.

[0015] The lighting assistance system 120 includes a high-output infrared LED 121, a power supply unit 122, and a microcontroller 123. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the lighting assistance system 120 further includes a transmitter 124 and a receiver 125.

[0016] The high-power infrared LED 121 is a semiconductor device that emits infrared light, typically in the near-infrared region. The high-power infrared LED 121 has significantly higher output than a standard infrared LED. It can emit very strong infrared light, enabling long-distance and wide-area infrared illumination. Furthermore, the high-power infrared LED 121 operates efficiently within a narrow wavelength range of the near-infrared. It also operates with relatively low power consumption compared to other high-power light sources. Additionally, being a semiconductor device, the high-power infrared LED 121 boasts a long lifespan and excellent durability. Like a standard infrared LED, the high-power infrared LED 121 is constructed from semiconductor materials and emits infrared light by passing current through a pn junction. The high-power infrared LED 121 is designed to operate at higher power by increasing the chip size and incorporating an efficient heat dissipation structure. The high-power infrared LED 121 is positioned so that the infrared light emitted from it can be detected by the pyroelectric infrared sensor 111. In this embodiment, the high-power infrared LED 121 is located near the pyroelectric infrared sensor 111 in the ceiling CE. Although the high-power infrared LED 121 is not located within the field of view FV of the pyroelectric infrared sensor 111, it emits very strong infrared radiation. Therefore, the pyroelectric infrared sensor 111 can detect changes in infrared radiation when the high-power infrared LED 121, which was previously off, turns on. The high-power infrared LED 121 is an example of an infrared radiation source.

[0017] The power supply unit 122 is a device that receives electricity from an external source via a power cable, performs operations such as AC-DC conversion and voltage reduction, and supplies power to the high-power infrared LED 121 according to a predetermined specification. In this embodiment, the power supply unit 122 is installed behind the ceiling CE. The power supply unit 122 is electrically connected to the high-power infrared LED 121 and the microcontroller 123.

[0018] The microcontroller 123 is a device that implements a complete set of computer functions into a single integrated circuit. The microcontroller 123 controls the high-power infrared LED 121. In this embodiment, the microcontroller 123 is located behind the ceiling CE. The microcontroller 123 is electrically connected to the power supply unit 122 and the receiver 125. The microcontroller 123 is an example of a control device.

[0019] The transmitter 124 and receiver 125 are a system for transmitting and receiving control signals using wireless communication to operate the microcontroller 123 from a distance.

[0020] The transmitter 124 is a device that transmits operation signals. The transmitter 124 includes, for example, an operation unit 124B such as a button. When the operation unit 124B is operated, the transmitter 124 generates and transmits an operation signal. The transmitter 124 transmits the operation signal using, for example, infrared rays, radio waves, etc. The transmitter 124 is installed in a location accessible to the user. In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the transmitter 124 is placed on a table TA located in the first space SP1 of the office.

[0021] The receiver 125 is a device that receives operation signals transmitted from the transmitter 124. When the receiver 125 receives an operation signal transmitted from the transmitter 124, it outputs the received operation signal to the microcontroller 123. The receiver 125 is installed in a position where it can receive the operation signal transmitted from the transmitter 124. In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the receiver 125 is installed on the ceiling CE.

[0022] Figure 2 shows an example of the configuration of the microcontroller 123 shown in Figure 1. The microcontroller 123 includes a CPU 123A, RAM 123B, ROM 123C, input / output circuit 123D, and timer circuit 123E.

[0023] The CPU 123A is one of the main components of the microcontroller 123 and is a device that controls the RAM 123B, ROM 123C, input / output circuit 123D, and timer circuit 123E, as well as performing data calculations.

[0024] CPU123A functions as an operation signal acquisition unit SM1 and an LED control unit SM2.

[0025] The operation signal acquisition unit SM1 is a software module that acquires operation signals.

[0026] The LED control unit SM2 is a software module that controls the high-power infrared LED 121.

[0027] RAM123B is a type of semiconductor memory device that allows data to be repeatedly written to and rewritten, and has the property that data stored anywhere within the device can be read and written at the same time.

[0028] ROM123C is a memory element and storage device that uses semiconductors, etc. It can write data only once during manufacturing, and during use, only the recorded data can be read.

[0029] The input / output circuit 123D is a circuit for inputting or outputting signals and data between the microcontroller 123 and peripheral devices. When the input / output circuit 123D receives an operation signal output from the receiver 125, it outputs the received operation signal to the CPU 123A. When the input / output circuit 123D receives a control signal output from the CPU 123A, it outputs the received control signal to the power supply unit 122.

[0030] The timer circuit 123E is a circuit that performs counting based on a clock signal and controls various aspects of time and frequency. The timer circuit 123E can measure a fixed time interval. For example, if the CPU 123A performs some processing every second, it uses the timer circuit 123E to measure one second. The timer circuit 123E can also generate an interrupt when a specific count is reached. The CPU 123A can use the interrupt to perform processing periodically.

[0031] Figure 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing performed by the microcontroller 123 shown in Figure 2. The explanation of the flowchart in Figure 3 assumes that the microcontroller 123 is not controlling the high-power infrared LED 121. Furthermore, the explanation of the flowchart in Figure 3 assumes that the lighting fixture 110 is turned off.

[0032] As mentioned above, the pyroelectric infrared sensor 111's field of view FV is obstructed by the partition PA, and therefore it cannot detect the movement of a person HU in the first space SP1. Consequently, the lighting fixture 110 does not light up even when a person HU moves in the first space SP1.

[0033] Therefore, if a user using the first space SP1 of the office wants to turn on the lighting fixture 110, they operate the control unit 124B of the transmitter 124 to turn on the lighting fixture 110. When the control unit 124B is operated, the transmitter 124 generates and transmits an operation signal. When the receiver 125 receives the operation signal transmitted from the transmitter 124, it outputs the received operation signal to the microcontroller 123. The operation signal acquisition unit SM1 of the microcontroller 123 acquires the operation signal output from the receiver 125.

[0034] The LED control unit SM2 of the microcontroller 123 determines whether it has received an operation signal from the receiver 125 when it is not controlling the high-power infrared LED 121 (S11). The LED control unit SM2 uses the timer circuit 123E to execute the process in S11 at predetermined intervals. Receiving an operation signal from the receiver 125 in S11 is an example of the fulfillment of the first specific condition caused by the operation of the human HU.

[0035] If no operation signal is obtained in S11 (S11; NO), the LED control unit SM2 repeats the process of S11 after a predetermined time has elapsed. The LED control unit SM2 repeatedly executes the process of S11 until an operation signal is obtained from the receiver 125.

[0036] If an operation signal is acquired in S11 (S11; YES), the LED control unit SM2 starts controlling the high-power infrared LED 121 (S12). In S12, the LED control unit SM2 controls the high-power infrared LED 121 to repeatedly turn on and off.

[0037] Figure 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the control process for the high-power infrared LED 121 performed in S12. In the embodiment shown in Figure 3, the LED control unit SM2 controls the high-power infrared LED 121 to light up at specific time intervals.

[0038] When the LED control unit SM2 starts controlling the high-power infrared LED 121, it controls the high-power infrared LED 121 to light up (S201). In S201, the LED control unit SM2 outputs a control signal to the power supply unit 122 to control the supply of power to the high-power infrared LED 121.

[0039] When the power supply unit 122 receives a control signal from the microcontroller 123, it supplies power to the high-power infrared LED 121. The high-power infrared LED 121 lights up when it receives power from the power supply unit 122.

[0040] After controlling the lighting of the high-power infrared LED 121, the LED control unit SM2 determines whether the lighting time has elapsed (S202). In S202, the LED control unit SM2 uses the timer circuit 123E to execute the process in S202 at predetermined intervals. The lighting time is set to a time longer than the time for which the pyroelectric infrared sensor 111 can detect changes in infrared radiation. For example, if the pyroelectric infrared sensor 111 can detect changes in infrared radiation in 1 second, the lighting time is set to approximately 2 seconds.

[0041] If the illumination time has not elapsed in S202 (S202; NO), the LED control unit SM2 will execute the S202 process again after a predetermined time has elapsed.

[0042] When the high-power infrared LED 121 is lit, the pyroelectric infrared sensor 111 detects the change in infrared radiation emitted from the high-power infrared LED 121 during the lit-up period. The lighting fixture 110 lights up when the pyroelectric infrared sensor 111 detects the change in infrared radiation emitted from the high-power infrared LED 121.

[0043] If the illumination time elapses in S202 (S202; YES), the LED control unit SM2 controls the high-power infrared LED 121 to turn off (S203). In S203, the LED control unit SM2 outputs a control signal to the power supply unit 122 to stop supplying power to the high-power infrared LED 121.

[0044] When the power supply unit 122 receives a control signal from the microcontroller 123, it stops supplying power to the high-power infrared LED 121. The high-power infrared LED 121 turns off when the power supply from the power supply unit 122 stops.

[0045] When the high-power infrared LED 121 is turned off, the pyroelectric infrared sensor 111 stops detecting changes in infrared radiation. However, the lighting fixture 110 does not immediately turn off even if the pyroelectric infrared sensor 111 stops detecting changes in infrared radiation.

[0046] After executing the off-power control for the high-power infrared LED 121, the LED control unit SM2 determines whether the off-time has elapsed (S204). In S204, the LED control unit SM2 uses the timer circuit 123E to execute the process in S204 at predetermined intervals. The off-time is set to a time shorter than the time it takes for the lighting fixture 110 to turn off when the pyroelectric infrared sensor 111 does not detect a change in infrared light. For example, if the lighting fixture 110 turns off after 40 seconds when the pyroelectric infrared sensor 111 does not detect a change in infrared light, the off-time is set to approximately 30 seconds.

[0047] If the time limit for turning off the lights has not elapsed in S204 (S204; NO), the LED control unit SM2 will execute the S204 process again after a predetermined time has elapsed.

[0048] If the time limit for turning off the LED has elapsed in S204 (S204; YES), the LED control unit SM2 controls the high-power infrared LED 121 to turn on again (S201).

[0049] When the high-power infrared LED 121 lights up again, the pyroelectric infrared sensor 111 detects the change in infrared radiation emitted from the high-power infrared LED 121 again. Since the time required for the lighting fixture 110 to turn off when the pyroelectric infrared sensor 111 does not detect a change in infrared radiation has not elapsed, the lighting fixture 110 remains lit instead of turning off.

[0050] Returning to the explanation of Figure 3, if a user using the first space SP1 of the office wants to turn off the lighting fixture 110, they operate the control unit 124B of the transmitter 124 to turn off the lighting fixture 110. When the control unit 124B is operated, the transmitter 124 generates and transmits an operation signal. When the receiver 125 receives the operation signal transmitted from the transmitter 124, it outputs the received operation signal to the microcontroller 123. The operation signal acquisition unit SM1 of the microcontroller 123 acquires the operation signal output from the receiver 125.

[0051] When the LED control unit SM2 is controlling the high-power infrared LED 121, it determines whether it has received an operation signal from the receiver 125 (S13). The LED control unit SM2 executes the process in S13 at predetermined intervals using an interrupt from the timer circuit 123E. Receiving an operation signal from the receiver 125 in S13 is an example of the second specific condition being met due to the operation of the human HU.

[0052] If no operation signal is received in S13 (S13; NO), the LED control unit SM2 continues processing S12. The LED control unit SM2 continues processing S12 until it receives an operation signal from the receiver 125.

[0053] If an operation signal is acquired in S13 (S13; YES), the LED control unit SM2 terminates control of the high-power infrared LED 121 (S14). In S14, if the high-power infrared LED 121 was lit, the LED control unit SM2 turns off the high-power infrared LED 121 before terminating control.

[0054] As described above, the lighting assistance system 120 includes a high-power infrared LED 121 that emits infrared rays. The lighting assistance system 120 also includes a microcontroller 123 that controls the high-power infrared LED 121. The high-power infrared LED 121 is positioned so that the infrared rays emitted from it can be detected by the pyroelectric infrared sensor 111. The microcontroller 123 controls the high-power infrared LED 121 to repeatedly switch on and off.

[0055] This configuration allows the lighting support system 120 to appropriately provide infrared light that can be detected by the pyroelectric infrared sensor 111. As a result, the lighting support system 120 can provide an appropriate lighting environment.

[0056] The microcontroller 123 controls the high-power infrared LED 121 to light up at specific time intervals.

[0057] This configuration enables the lighting support system 120 to maintain stable lighting control even when people (HUs) are present for extended periods.

[0058] The microcontroller 123 controls the high-power infrared LED 121 so that it stays lit for a longer period than the time the pyroelectric infrared sensor 111 can detect changes in infrared radiation.

[0059] This configuration allows for reduced energy consumption while maintaining the illumination time necessary for the pyroelectric infrared sensor 111 to detect light appropriately.

[0060] The microcontroller 123 controls the high-power infrared LED 121 so that the off time is shorter than the time it takes for the lighting fixture 110 to turn off when the pyroelectric infrared sensor 111 does not detect a change in infrared radiation.

[0061] This configuration allows the lighting support system 120 to suppress energy consumption while enabling stable lighting control even when people (HUs) are present for extended periods.

[0062] The microcontroller 123 starts controlling the high-power infrared LED 121 when a first specific condition caused by the movement of a person in the human HU is met while the high-power infrared LED 121 is not being controlled. The microcontroller 123 terminates controlling the high-power infrared LED 121 when a second specific condition caused by the movement of a person in the human HU is met while the high-power infrared LED 121 is being controlled.

[0063] This configuration allows the lighting assistance system 120 to improve work efficiency and significantly enhance convenience in environments such as offices and conference rooms.

[0064] The lighting assistance system 120 includes an operating unit 124B for operation by a human HU. The microcontroller 123 starts controlling the high-power infrared LED 121 when the operating unit 124B is operated while the high-power infrared LED 121 is not being controlled. The microcontroller 123 terminates control of the high-power infrared LED 121 when the operating unit 124B is operated while the high-power infrared LED 121 is being controlled.

[0065] This configuration provides the lighting support system 120 with the flexibility to manually control the lighting as needed by offering an interface that can be manually operated by human HUs.

[0066] Figure 5 shows another example of the lighting system 100.

[0067] In the embodiment shown in Figure 5, unlike the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the lighting assistance system 120 does not include a transmitter 124 and a receiver 125, but instead includes a motion sensor 126.

[0068] The motion sensor 126 is a sensor for detecting the movement or presence of a person (HU). The lighting support system 120 includes, for example, an infrared sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, or a millimeter-wave sensor as the motion sensor 126. The infrared sensor detects movement by detecting infrared radiation emitted from the body of a person (HU). The infrared sensor reacts when it detects a temperature change within a specific range. The ultrasonic sensor detects movement by emitting ultrasonic waves into the surroundings and detecting their reflection. The ultrasonic sensor reacts when the reflection pattern changes as a person (HU) or object moves, as this changes the reflection pattern. The millimeter-wave sensor uses high-frequency radio waves called millimeter waves to detect the movement of a person (HU) or object. The millimeter-wave sensor is more accurate than the infrared sensor and can capture even fine movements. The motion sensor 126 is installed outside the field of view FV of the pyroelectric infrared sensor 111. In the embodiment shown in Figure 5, the motion sensor 126 is installed on the ceiling CE of the office in a position where it can detect the movement or presence of a person (HU) in the first space SP1. The human presence sensor 126 is electrically connected to the microcontroller 123, and when it detects the movement or presence of a person (HU), it outputs a detection signal to the microcontroller 123.

[0069] Figure 6 shows an example of the configuration of the microcontroller 123 shown in Figure 5.

[0070] When the input / output circuit 123D of the microcontroller 123 receives a detection signal output from the human presence sensor 126, it outputs the received detection signal to the CPU 123A.

[0071] In the embodiment shown in Figure 6, unlike the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the CPU 123A does not function as an operation signal acquisition unit SM1, but rather functions as a detection signal acquisition unit SM3 and an LED control unit SM2.

[0072] The detection signal acquisition unit SM3 is a software module that acquires detection signals.

[0073] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing performed by the microcontroller 123 shown in Figure 6. In the embodiment shown in Figure 7, the microcontroller 123 performs the processing of S21 instead of the processing of S11 in Figure 3, and performs the processing of S23 instead of the processing of S13 in Figure 3.

[0074] When an office user enters the first space SP1, the motion sensor 126 detects the user's movement and presence. The motion sensor 126 senses, for example, at predetermined time intervals. When the motion sensor 126 detects the user's movement or presence, it outputs a detection signal to the microcontroller 123. The detection signal acquisition unit SM3 of the microcontroller 123 acquires the detection signal output from the motion sensor 126.

[0075] The LED control unit SM2 of the microcontroller 123 determines whether a detection signal has been acquired from the human presence sensor 126 when it is not controlling the high-power infrared LED 121 (S21). The LED control unit SM2 uses the timer circuit 123E to execute the process in S21 at predetermined intervals. Acquiring a detection signal in S21 is an example of the fulfillment of a first specific condition caused by the movement of a human HU.

[0076] If no detection signal is obtained in S21 (S21; NO), the LED control unit SM2 repeats the process of S21 after a predetermined time has elapsed. The LED control unit SM2 repeatedly executes the process of S21 until a detection signal is obtained from the motion sensor 126.

[0077] If a detection signal is acquired in S21 (S21; YES), the LED control unit SM2 starts controlling the high-power infrared LED 121 (S22). In S22, the LED control unit SM2 executes the process shown in Figure 4.

[0078] When an office user leaves the first space SP1, the motion sensor 126 stops detecting the user's movement or presence.

[0079] When the LED control unit SM2 is controlling the high-power infrared LED 121, it determines whether a specific time has elapsed since the motion sensor 126 stopped detecting a person HU (S23). In S23, the LED control unit SM2 determines that a specific time has elapsed when it has stopped receiving a detection signal from the motion sensor 126. The specific time can be any time.

[0080] If the specified time has not elapsed in S23 (S23; NO), the LED control unit SM2 continues processing in S12. The LED control unit SM2 continues processing in S12 until the specified time has elapsed since the motion sensor 126 stopped detecting a person HU.

[0081] If a specific time has elapsed in S23 (S23; YES), the LED control unit SM2 terminates control of the high-power infrared LED 121 (S14). In S14, if the high-power infrared LED 121 was lit, the LED control unit SM2 turns off the high-power infrared LED 121 before terminating control.

[0082] As described above, the lighting support system 120 is equipped with a human presence sensor 126 for detecting human presence. The human presence sensor 126 is located outside the field of view FV of the pyroelectric infrared sensor 111. The microcontroller 123 starts controlling the high-power infrared LED 121 when the human presence sensor 126 detects a human presence while the microcontroller 123 is not controlling the high-power infrared LED 121. The microcontroller 123 terminates control of the high-power infrared LED 121 when the human presence sensor 126 stops detecting a human presence and a specific amount of time has elapsed while the microcontroller 123 is controlling the high-power infrared LED 121.

[0083] With this configuration, the lighting support system 120, when linked with the motion sensor 126, can appropriately respond to situations that cannot be handled by the pyroelectric infrared sensor 111 alone, thereby achieving even more convenient lighting control.

[0084] Figure 8 shows another example of the lighting system 100.

[0085] In the embodiment shown in Figure 8, the lighting system 100 is equipped with an illuminance sensor 127, unlike the embodiment shown in Figure 1.

[0086] The illuminance sensor 127 is a sensor for measuring illuminance. Illuminance indicates the intensity of light and is expressed in units of lux. The illuminance sensor 127 is used to measure the amount of light in environments with natural or artificial light. The illuminance sensor 127 has the function of converting light energy into an electrical signal. The illuminance sensor 127 detects light using a light-sensing element called a photodiode or phototransistor. A light-sensing element has the property of conducting an electric current when exposed to light. The illuminance sensor 127 determines the intensity of light by measuring the magnitude of the current flowing through the light-sensing element. The illuminance sensor 127 is installed indoors. In the embodiment shown in Figure 8, the illuminance sensor 127 is installed on the ceiling CE of an office. The illuminance sensor 127 is electrically connected to the microcontroller 123, and when it measures illuminance, it outputs illuminance data that can identify the illuminance to the microcontroller 123.

[0087] Figure 9 shows an example of the configuration of the microcontroller 123 shown in Figure 8.

[0088] When the input / output circuit 123D of the microcontroller 123 receives illuminance data output from the illuminance sensor 127, it outputs the received illuminance data to the CPU 123A.

[0089] In the embodiment shown in Figure 9, unlike the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the CPU 123A functions as an illuminance data acquisition unit SM4, an operation signal acquisition unit SM1, and an LED control unit SM2.

[0090] The illuminance data acquisition unit SM4 is a software module that acquires illuminance data.

[0091] Figure 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing performed by the microcontroller 123 shown in Figure 9. In the embodiment shown in Figure 10, when the microcontroller 123 acquires an operation signal in S11 in Figure 3 (S11; YES), it performs the processing in S31 before performing the processing in S12.

[0092] When the illuminance sensor 127 measures illuminance, it outputs illuminance data that allows for the identification of illuminance to the microcontroller 123. The illuminance data acquisition unit SM4 of the microcontroller 123 acquires the illuminance data output from the illuminance sensor 127. Once the illuminance data acquisition unit SM4 acquires the illuminance data, it stores the illuminance data in the RAM 123B.

[0093] If an operation signal is obtained in S11 (S11; YES), the LED control unit SM2 determines whether the illuminance is less than a specific value (S31). In S31, the LED control unit SM2 determines whether the illuminance is less than a specific value by referring to the illuminance data stored in RAM 123B. The specific value can be any illuminance that allows the use of the lighting fixture 110.

[0094] If the illuminance in S31 is not less than a specific value (S31; NO), the LED control unit SM2 does not control the high-power infrared LED 121. If the LED control unit SM2 does not control the high-power infrared LED 121, it may output an alert using an output device (not shown). Office users can be informed that the illuminance level is such that the use of the lighting fixture 110 is not permitted by the output of the alert.

[0095] If the illuminance in S31 is less than a specific value (S31; YES), the LED control unit SM2 starts controlling the high-power infrared LED 121 (S12).

[0096] Figure 11 shows another example of the lighting system 100.

[0097] In the embodiment shown in Figure 11, the lighting system 100 is equipped with an illuminance sensor 127, unlike the embodiment shown in Figure 5.

[0098] Figure 12 shows an example of the configuration of the microcontroller 123 shown in Figure 11.

[0099] In the embodiment shown in Figure 12, unlike the embodiment shown in Figure 6, the CPU 123A functions as an illuminance data acquisition unit SM4, a detection signal acquisition unit SM3, and an LED control unit SM2.

[0100] Figure 13 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing performed by the microcontroller 123 shown in Figure 12. In the embodiment shown in Figure 13, when the microcontroller 123 acquires an operation signal in S21 in Figure 7 (S21; YES), it performs the processing in S31 before performing the processing in S12.

[0101] If a detection signal is obtained in S21 (S21; YES), the LED control unit SM2 determines whether the illuminance is less than a specific value (S31). In S31, the LED control unit SM2 determines whether the illuminance is less than a specific value by referring to the illuminance data stored in RAM 123B. The specific value can be any illuminance that allows the use of the lighting fixture 110.

[0102] If the illuminance in S31 is not less than a specific value (S31; NO), the LED control unit SM2 does not control the high-power infrared LED 121.

[0103] If the illuminance in S31 is less than a specific value (S31; YES), the LED control unit SM2 starts controlling the high-power infrared LED 121 (S12).

[0104] As described above, the lighting support system 120 includes an illuminance sensor 127 for measuring illuminance. When the first specific condition is met, the microcontroller 123 starts controlling the high-power infrared LED 121 when the illuminance measured by the illuminance sensor 127 is less than a specific value.

[0105] With this configuration, the lighting support system 120 can use the illuminance sensor 127 to perform optimal lighting control according to the brightness of the environment, thereby preventing excessive power consumption.

[0106] Figure 14 shows another example of the configuration of the microcontroller 123 shown in Figure 1.

[0107] In the embodiment shown in Figure 14, the ROM 123C stores a calendar data CD. The calendar data CD contains data that can identify the time of sunset and sunrise. The time of sunset is the moment when the sun completely sets below the horizon. The time of sunrise is the moment when the sun's upper edge appears above the horizon.

[0108] Figure 15 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing performed by the microcontroller 123 shown in Figure 14. In the embodiment shown in Figure 15, when the microcontroller 123 acquires an operation signal in S11 in Figure 3 (S11; YES), it performs the processing in S41 before performing the processing in S12.

[0109] If an operation signal is obtained in S11 (S11; YES), the LED control unit SM2 determines whether it is a specific time period (S41). In S41, the LED control unit SM2 determines whether it is a specific time period by referring to the calendar data CD stored in ROM123C. The specific time period is, for example, the time period from around sunset to around sunrise.

[0110] If it is not a specific time period in S41 (S41; NO), the LED control unit SM2 does not control the high-power infrared LED 121. If the LED control unit SM2 does not control the high-power infrared LED 121, it may output an alert using an output device (not shown). Office users can be informed by the output of the alert that the illumination level is not permitted for use of the lighting fixture 110.

[0111] If it is a specific time period in S41 (S41; YES), the LED control unit SM2 starts controlling the high-power infrared LED 121 (S12).

[0112] Figure 16 shows another example of the configuration of the microcontroller 123 shown in Figure 5.

[0113] In the embodiment shown in Figure 16, the ROM 123C stores a calendar data CD.

[0114] Figure 17 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing performed by the microcontroller 123 shown in Figure 16. In the embodiment shown in Figure 17, when the microcontroller 123 acquires an odor detection signal in S21 of Figure 7 (S21; YES), it performs the processing in S41 before performing the processing in S12.

[0115] If an operation signal is obtained in S21 (S21; YES), the LED control unit SM2 determines whether it is a specific time period (S41). In S41, the LED control unit SM2 determines whether it is a specific time period by referring to the calendar data CD stored in ROM123C. The specific time period is, for example, the time period from around sunset to around sunrise.

[0116] If it is not a specific time period in S41 (S41; NO), the LED control unit SM2 does not control the high-power infrared LED 121.

[0117] If it is a specific time period in S41 (S41; YES), the LED control unit SM2 starts controlling the high-power infrared LED 121 (S12).

[0118] As described above, the microcontroller 123 starts controlling the high-power infrared LED 121 when the first specific condition is met and it is within a specific time period.

[0119] This configuration allows the lighting support system 120 to automatically control lighting during specific time periods, enabling energy-efficient lighting tailored to the time of day.

[0120] Although the invention has been described above using embodiments, the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the scope described in the embodiments. It will be obvious to those skilled in the art that various modifications or improvements can be made to the embodiments. It will also be clear from the claims that such modified or improved forms may be included within the technical scope of the present invention.

[0121] In this embodiment, the lighting fixture 110 uses a pyroelectric infrared sensor 111 as an infrared detection sensor to automatically turn on and off, mainly by detecting the movement of a person HU. However, the infrared detection sensor can be any sensor capable of detecting infrared radiation, and is not limited to a pyroelectric infrared sensor 111. The lighting fixture 110 may use, for example, a thermistor-type infrared sensor that uses a thermistor to detect temperature changes due to infrared energy as an infrared detection sensor. The lighting fixture 110 may use, for example, a bolometer that uses a material whose electrical resistance depends on temperature to detect temperature changes due to infrared radiation as an infrared detection sensor. The lighting fixture 110 may use, for example, a quantum-type infrared sensor that uses a semiconductor material to directly detect infrared photons as an infrared detection sensor. The lighting fixture 110 may use, for example, a thermopile sensor configured by connecting a plurality of thermocouples in series and converting the temperature difference due to infrared radiation into a voltage as an infrared detection sensor. The lighting fixture 110 may use, for example, a photoacoustic sensor that utilizes the phenomenon in which infrared radiation is absorbed by a substance and generates acoustic waves as an infrared detection sensor. The lighting fixture 110 may use, for example, a photodiode or phototransistor that converts infrared photons into electrical signals using a material sensitive to infrared light as an infrared detection sensor.

[0122] In this embodiment, the lighting support system 120 includes a high-power infrared LED 121 as an infrared radiation source. However, the infrared radiation source can be any device that emits infrared radiation, and is not limited to the high-power infrared LED 121. The lighting support system 120 may also include, for example, a halogen lamp that emits a wide range of light including infrared radiation as an infrared radiation source. The lighting support system 120 may also include, for example, a laser diode capable of generating highly directional infrared radiation as an infrared radiation source. The lighting support system 120 may also include, for example, an infrared heater using carbon or ceramic as an infrared radiation source. The lighting support system 120 may also include, for example, a thermoelectric radiation source that generates infrared radiation by heating a specific material. The lighting support system 120 may also include, for example, a mercury lamp that also emits some infrared radiation as an infrared radiation source. The lighting support system 120 may also include, for example, a nanotube or graphene-based infrared radiator that emits infrared radiation using nanomaterials as an infrared radiation source. The lighting support system 120 may include, for example, a plasma radiation source that emits infrared radiation using plasma technology, as an infrared radiation source.

[0123] The execution order of operations, procedures, steps, and stages in the devices and systems shown in the claims, specifications, and drawings is not explicitly stated as "before" or "prior to." It should be noted that the execution order of each process can be any order, unless the output of a previous process is used in a later process. Even if the operation flow in the claims, specifications, and drawings is explained using terms such as "first" and "next" for convenience, this does not mean that it is essential to perform the operations in that order. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0124] 100 Lighting Systems 110 Lighting fixtures 111 Pyroelectric infrared sensor 120 Lighting Auxiliary Systems 121 High-power infrared LEDs 122 Power Supply Units 123 Microcontrollers 123A CPU 123B RAM 123C ROM 123D Input / Output Circuit 123E Timer Circuit 124 Transmitter 124B Operation section 125 Receiver 126 motion sensors 127 Illuminance recovery CD Calendar Data CE Ceiling FV field of view HU person PA Partition SM1 Operation signal acquisition section SM2 LED control section SM3 detection signal acquisition unit SP1 1st space SP2 2nd space TA Table

Claims

1. An infrared radiation source that emits infrared radiation, The system includes a control device for controlling the infrared radiation source, The infrared radiation source is positioned so that the infrared radiation emitted from the infrared radiation source can be detected by an infrared detection sensor used in a lighting fixture. The control device is a lighting assistance system that controls the infrared radiation source to repeatedly switch between on and off.

2. The lighting assistance system according to claim 1, wherein the control device controls the infrared radiation source to light up at specific time intervals.

3. The lighting assistance system according to claim 1, wherein the control device controls the infrared radiation source so that it remains lit for a longer period than the time for which the infrared detection sensor can detect a change in infrared radiation.

4. The lighting assistance system according to claim 1, wherein the control device controls the infrared radiation source such that the off-time is shorter than the time it takes for the lighting fixture to turn off when the infrared detection sensor does not detect a change in infrared radiation.

5. The control device is When the infrared radiation source is not being controlled, if a first specific condition caused by human movement is met, control of the infrared radiation source is initiated. The lighting assistance system according to claim 3, wherein the control of the infrared radiation source is terminated when a second specific condition caused by human movement is met while the infrared radiation source is being controlled.

6. It is equipped with a control panel for human operation, The control device is When the control unit is operated while the infrared radiation source is not being controlled, control of the infrared radiation source is initiated. The lighting assistance system according to claim 5, wherein the control of the infrared radiation source is terminated when the operating unit is operated while the infrared radiation source is being controlled.

7. Lighting fixtures that use infrared detection sensors, Equipped with a lighting support system, The aforementioned lighting support system is An infrared radiation source that emits infrared radiation, The system includes a control device for controlling the infrared radiation source, The infrared radiation source is positioned so that the infrared radiation emitted from the infrared radiation source can be detected by the infrared detection sensor. The control device controls the infrared radiation source so that it repeatedly turns on and off, providing a lighting system.

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