Lighting control device and lighting control system

Abstract

To provide a lighting control device that enables even faster installation of lighting equipment. [Solution] The system has a function to control the power supplied to lighting fixtures based on setting information created on an external terminal device that indicates the association between the input device and the connection part, and controls up to a number of groups of lighting fixtures corresponding to the number of connection parts in response to control signals from the input device received via wireless communication, and includes a power measurement unit 356 capable of measuring the power consumption of the lighting fixtures, the structured body records at least power consumption information for the lighting fixtures, the control unit 35 is used to rewrite the structured body, the rewriting of the structured body includes rewriting the power consumption measured by the power measurement unit 356, it is connectable to the cloud and provides electricity usage information to the user's smartphone via the cloud when requested from the smartphone.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] <照 Conventionally, a lighting control system for controlling a plurality of lighting fixtures installed in facilities such as offices, factories, or shopping centers has been known. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a lighting control system in which lighting fixtures corresponding to each of a plurality of sections in a facility are controlled based on information from a human detection sensor that detects a person in each section or an illuminance sensor that detects the illuminance of each section. Further, Patent Document 2 discloses a lighting control system that enables rapid construction of lighting facilities.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the lighting control system disclosed in Patent Document 1, a lighting equipment installer needs to understand the specifications and standards of each of the lighting fixtures, input devices (various sensor devices and switches), and the lighting control device, and then perform the installation work of each device. However, in order for each lighting fixture to be controlled (flashed, etc.) by each input device, the installer needs to manually perform an operation of associating each lighting fixture with each input device in the lighting control device, and there is a problem that the acceleration of construction is not promoted. <000002A> Furthermore, in the lighting control system disclosed in Patent Document 2, it is believed that the construction process can be made even faster by making the lighting control device more functional.

[0006] This invention was made to solve these problems, and aims to provide a lighting control device and a lighting control system that enable even faster installation of lighting equipment. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] (1) In order to achieve the above objective, the lighting control device according to the present invention is Control unit and A storage unit capable of storing a structured database, A communication unit that enables wireless communication with at least one input device, It has multiple connection points that can be connected to cables that supply power to lighting fixtures, It has a function to control the power supplied to the lighting fixtures based on setting information created in an external terminal device that indicates the association between the input device and the connection part, and controls up to a number of groups of lighting fixtures corresponding to the number of connection parts in response to control signals from the input device received via wireless communication. The lighting fixture is equipped with a power measuring unit capable of measuring the power consumption of the aforementioned lighting fixture. The structured body records at least the power consumption information for the lighting fixture, The control unit is used to rewrite the structured body, The rewriting of the structured body includes rewriting the power consumption measured by the power measurement unit. It can connect to the cloud, The system provides electricity usage information to the user's mobile device via the aforementioned cloud when requested from the mobile device. (2) To achieve the above objective, the lighting control system according to the present invention is a lighting control system having at least one input device and a lighting control device that can communicate with it, and a user information terminal device, The lighting control device has the configuration of (1) above.

Effects of the Invention

[0008] With the lighting control device and the lighting control system according to the present invention, the construction of lighting facilities can be further accelerated.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0009] [Figure 1] It is a diagram showing an example of the schematic configuration of a lighting control system. [Figure 2] It is a diagram showing an example of the schematic configuration of a lighting control device. [Figure 3] It is a schematic diagram showing an example of the appearance of a lighting control device. [Figure 4] It is a diagram showing an example of the schematic configuration of a terminal device. [Figure 5] It is a diagram showing the depth of water for promoting ZEB conversion. [Figure 6] It is a diagram showing an example of the energy consumption ratio of an office building. [Figure 7] It is a diagram showing an example of electricity cost savings. [Figure 8] It is a diagram showing a conventional lighting system. [Figure 9] It is a diagram showing an example of the layout of a conventional floor. [Figure 10] It is a diagram showing an example of configuring a system related to power measurement separately from other measurement systems. [Figure 11] It is a diagram showing an example of wiring when using SLC (or newSLC). [Figure 12] It is a diagram showing an example of the layout of a floor when using SLC (or newSLC). [Figure 13] It is a diagram showing in detail an example of wiring when using SLC. [Figure 14] It is a diagram showing in detail an example of wiring when using newSLC. [Figure 15] It is a diagram showing a comparison of the cost magnitude relationship when using SLC (or newSLC) with the conventional case. [Figure 16] A diagram showing an image of the state of work in the conventional (wired) case and an image of the state of work by wireless. [Figure 17] (a) is a diagram showing a state where wiring is connected to newSLC, (b) is a photographic image of a device (turtle net) used for mutual wiring connection related to a plurality of illuminations (lighting fixtures), and (c) is a diagram showing an example of wiring connection using the turtle net. [Figure 18] (a) is a diagram showing an example of a display screen for smart lighting, (b) is a diagram showing an example of a display screen for an alarm, (c) is a diagram showing an example of a display screen for conveying a tendency related to current consumption, (d) is a diagram showing an example of a display screen related to a selection menu (current, number of operations, operation time, etc.) of a tendency to be displayed, and (e) is a diagram showing an example of a display screen related to a list of two-dimensional codes for identifying devices to be information-displayed. [Figure 19] A diagram showing an example of a registration screen related to newSLC. [Figure 20] A diagram showing an example of a setting screen related to newSLC. [Figure 21] A diagram showing an example of a setting screen related to newSLC. [Figure 22] A diagram showing an example of a setting screen related to newSLC. [Figure 23] A diagram showing an example of a setting screen related to newSLC. [Figure 24] A diagram showing an example of a setting screen related to newSLC. [Figure 25] A diagram showing an example of a setting screen related to newSLC. [Figure 26] A diagram showing an example of a setting screen related to newSLC. [Figure 27] A diagram showing an example of a setting screen related to newSLC. [Figure 28] A diagram showing an example of a setting screen related to newSLC. [Figure 29] A diagram showing an example of a setting screen related to newSLC. [Figure 30] A diagram showing an example of a setting screen related to newSLC. [Figure 31] This figure shows an example of the settings screen for newSLC. [Figure 32] This figure shows an example of the settings screen for newSLC. [Figure 33] This figure shows an example of the settings screen for newSLC. [Figure 34] This figure shows an example of the settings screen for newSLC. [Figure 35] (a) is a diagram showing an example of a structured body before the group change, and (b) is a diagram showing an example of a structured body after the group change. [Figure 36] This is a diagram illustrating an example of a structured entity containing information related to the electricity consumption of lighting. [Figure 37] (a) is a diagram showing an example of the floor layout before the group change, and (b) is a diagram showing an example of the floor layout after the group change. [Figure 38] (a) is a diagram showing an example of a structured body before the group change, and (b) is a diagram showing an example of a structured body after the group change. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] <Introduction> The following describes the lighting control device and lighting control system according to the embodiment. The lighting control system 1 (Figure 1) and lighting control device 3 (Figure 2) according to this embodiment have a configuration that is partially the same as the lighting control system and lighting control device disclosed by the applicant in Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-076040, etc. (Japanese Patent Publication No. 2023-165231, certified copy of patent decision served on February 6, 2025).

[0011] In the following, conventional lighting control devices, such as those disclosed in Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-076040 (Japanese Patent Publication No. 2023-165231), may be referred to as "SLC," and the lighting control device 3 according to this embodiment may be referred to as "newSLC." In "SLC" and "newSLC," "SLC" is an abbreviation for "Smart Lighting Controller."

[0012] Furthermore, the following will first describe some of the parts of the lighting control system 1 and lighting control device 3 according to this embodiment that are common with conventional SLCs. In addition, the characteristic configuration of the lighting control device 3 (newSLC) according to this embodiment will be described. After that, the problems solved and the advantages demonstrated by the lighting control device 3 (newSLC) according to this embodiment and the lighting control system 1 using the lighting control device 3 (newSLC) will be described.

[0013] <Lighting control system 1 (common features with conventional SLC)> Figure 1 shows an example of the schematic configuration of the lighting control system 1 according to this embodiment. The configuration of the lighting control system 1 in the example in Figure 1 is the same as that of a conventional SLC, except for a part of the lighting control device 3. The lighting control system 1 includes a lighting fixture 2, a lighting control device 3, a terminal device 4, an input device 5, and an antenna 6. Hereinafter, the installers of the lighting fixture 2, lighting control device 3, input device 5, and antenna 6, as well as the operators of the terminal device 4, may be collectively referred to as "users".

[0014] Multiple lighting fixtures 2 are installed on the ceiling of facilities such as offices, factories, or shopping centers. Lighting fixtures 2 may also be installed on the walls or floors of facilities. Lighting fixtures 2 may also be installed in common areas of apartment buildings, private residences, or civil engineering facilities. Figure 1 shows that the lighting control system 1 has eight lighting fixtures 2, but the number of lighting fixtures 2 that the lighting control system 1 has is not limited to eight.

[0015] The lighting control device 3 has the function of controlling the power supplied to the lighting fixture 2 from a power source (not shown). For example, the lighting control device 3 controls the on / off state of the lighting fixture 2 and the dimming when it is lit, in response to the control signal from the input device 5 received via the antenna 6. In Figure 1, the lighting control system 1 is shown to have one lighting control device 3, but the lighting control system 1 may have two or more lighting control devices 3.

[0016] Terminal device 4 is an information processing device such as a notebook PC (Personal Computer). Terminal device 4 may also be a multifunction mobile phone (smartphone, etc.), tablet device, tablet PC, e-book reader, or wearable computer. Alternatively, terminal device 4 may be a portable game console, game console, or server device. Figure 1 shows that the lighting control system 1 has one terminal device 4, but the lighting control system 1 may have two or more terminal devices 4.

[0017] Input device 5 is a flashing device (switch, motion sensor, or illuminance sensor, etc.) that transmits control signals for turning the lighting fixture 2 on and off to the lighting control device 3. Input device 5 is not limited to having an input means such as a mechanical switch operated by the user's fingers, but may also have an input means such as a light sensor or an infrared sensor, and input may be made when various sensors (also called sensors) sense a change in the situation. Input device 5 may also transmit a control signal for dimming when the lighting fixture 2 is turned on. Input device 5 has a communication interface circuit including an antenna with a sensitivity band of 928 MHz, and establishes short-range wireless communication using the EnOcean® wireless communication method with antenna 6, which will be described later. The communication method between input device 5 and antenna 6 may be short-range wireless communication according to other communication methods such as Bluetooth®, ZigBee®, or LoRa®. Furthermore, the frequency band of the communication interface circuit of input device 5 is not limited to the above frequency band.

[0018] If the input device 5 is a single switch, when a person operates a predetermined operating component (such as a rocker or push button), the input device 5 transmits a control signal corresponding to the operation to the lighting control device 3 via the communication interface circuit. If the input device 5 is a motion sensor, when the input device 5 detects that a person has entered its sensing range, it transmits a predetermined control signal to the lighting control device 3 via the communication interface circuit. If the input device 5 is an illuminance sensor, the input device 5 detects the illuminance at predetermined time intervals and transmits a control signal indicating the detected illuminance to the lighting control device 3 via the communication interface circuit. The control signals transmitted by the input device 5 include identification information unique to the input device 5 (for example, input device ID (identification)).

[0019] Antenna 6 is an antenna with a sensitivity band of 928 MHz. Antenna 6 is connected to the lighting control device 3 by a predetermined cable and supplies control signals from the input device 5 to the lighting control device 3. Note that the sensitivity band of antenna 6 is not limited to the frequency band described above.

[0020] <Lighting control device 3 (common features with conventional SLC)> Figure 2 is a diagram showing an example of the schematic configuration of the lighting control device 3, and Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the external appearance of the lighting control device 3. The lighting control device 3 comprises a first communication unit 31, a second communication unit 32, a lighting control storage unit 33, connection units 34a to 34h, and a control unit 35. Hereafter, connection units 34a to 34h may be collectively referred to as connection unit 34.

[0021] The first communication unit 31 has a communication interface circuit for establishing short-range wireless communication using the EnOcean® wireless communication method with the input device 5 via the antenna 6. The communication method between the lighting control device 3 and the input device 5 may also be short-range wireless communication according to other communication methods such as the Bluetooth® communication method. The first communication unit 31 demodulates the control signal received by the antenna 6 into a received packet and supplies it to the control unit 35. Hereinafter, the information indicated by the received packet obtained by demodulating the control signal may be referred to as control information.

[0022] The second communication unit 32 has a communication interface circuit for connecting to USB (Universal Serial Bus) or the like. The second communication unit 32 may also be a wired or wireless LAN (Local Area Network) communication interface or the like. The second communication unit 32 is connected to the terminal device 4 via a predetermined cable, and the lighting control device 3 and the terminal device 4 communicate using a communication protocol such as LonTalk. The communication protocol between the lighting control device 3 and the terminal device 4 may also be BACnet, BACnet-MSTP, or Modbus, etc.

[0023] The lighting control storage unit 33 includes, for example, a semiconductor memory device such as ROM (Read Only Memory) or RAM (Random Access Memory). The lighting control storage unit 33 stores the control program used for processing in the control unit 35, information related to the input device 5, and the setting table T1, etc. Information related to the input device 5 includes, for example, type information indicating the type of input device 5. Details of the setting table T1 will be described later.

[0024] The connection section 34 connects to a power cable (for example, a VVF (Vinyl insulated Vinyl sheathed Flat-type) cable) connected to the lighting fixture 2, and supplies power from a power source (not shown) to the lighting fixture 2. The connection section 34 may also be connected to a dimming control cable connected to the lighting fixture 2. Figure 3 shows that the lighting control device 3 has eight connection sections 34a to 34h, but the number of connection sections 34 in the lighting control device 3 is not limited to eight. Furthermore, multiple lighting fixtures 2 may be connected to a single connection section 34.

[0025] The control unit 35 comprises one or more processors and their peripheral circuits. The control unit 35 comprehensively controls the overall operation of the lighting control device 3 and is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The control unit 35 controls the first communication unit 31, the second communication unit 32, the connection unit 34, etc., so that various processes of the lighting control device 3 are executed in appropriate procedures based on the control program stored in the lighting control storage unit 33.

[0026] The control unit 35 includes a receiving unit 351, a transmitting unit 352, and a registration unit 353. Each of these units in the control unit 35 is a functional module implemented by a control program executed on the processor of the receiving unit 351. The various control functions of the lighting control device 3, as described later, are performed by the control unit 35.

[0027] <Terminal device 4 (common features with conventional SLC)> Figure 4 shows an example of the schematic configuration of the terminal device 4. The terminal device 4 is capable of performing various processes, including the process of generating setting information that indicates the association between a connection unit 34 connected to one or more lighting fixtures 2 and an input device 5. To this end, the terminal device 4 comprises a terminal communication unit 41, a terminal storage unit 42, a terminal operation unit 43, a terminal display unit 44, and a terminal processing unit 45.

[0028] The terminal communication unit 41 has a communication interface circuit for connecting to USB or the like. The terminal communication unit 41 may also be a wired or wireless LAN communication interface, etc. The terminal communication unit 41 is connected to the lighting control device 3 via a predetermined cable, and the lighting control device 3 and the terminal device 4 communicate using a communication protocol such as LonTalk.

[0029] The terminal storage unit 42 includes, for example, a semiconductor memory device such as ROM or RAM. The terminal storage unit 42 stores application programs such as terminal control programs used in processing by the terminal processing unit 45, and various types of information such as information related to the input device 5. The various programs such as terminal control programs stored in the terminal storage unit 42 may be installed in the terminal storage unit 42 using, for example, a known setup program transmitted from an external server device.

[0030] The terminal operation unit 43 is, for example, a keyboard and / or keypad. The terminal operation unit 43 can be any device that enables operation of the terminal device 4, for example, a pointing device such as a touch panel. The user can use the terminal operation unit 43 to input characters, numbers and symbols, or positions on the display screen of the terminal display unit 44. When the terminal operation unit 43 is operated by the user, it generates a signal corresponding to that operation, and the generated signal is supplied to the terminal processing unit 45 as a user instruction.

[0031] The terminal display unit 44 is a liquid crystal display. The terminal display unit 44 may also be an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display or the like. The terminal display unit 44 displays video corresponding to video data supplied from the terminal processing unit 45, moving images corresponding to moving image data, still images corresponding to still image data, etc.

[0032] The terminal processing unit 45 comprises one or more processors and their peripheral circuits. The terminal processing unit 45 comprehensively controls the overall operation of the terminal device 4 and is, for example, a CPU. The terminal processing unit 45 controls the terminal communication unit 41, the terminal display unit 44, etc., so that various processes of the terminal device 4 are executed in appropriate procedures based on terminal control programs stored in the terminal storage unit 42 and operations of the terminal operation unit 43.

[0033] The terminal processing unit 45 includes a display processing unit 451, an association unit 452, a terminal transmission unit 453, and a terminal reception unit 454. Each of these units in the terminal processing unit 45 is a functional module implemented by a terminal control program executed on the processor of the terminal processing unit 45. Alternatively, each of these units in the terminal processing unit 45 may be implemented in the terminal device 4 as an independent integrated circuit, microprocessor, or firmware.

[0034] <Connection between the connector and the input device> The lighting control device 3 can associate connection parts 34 (in this case, eight connection parts 34a to 34h) with multiple input devices 5 (switches, motion sensors, or illuminance sensors, etc.). Specifically, the connection parts 34 can be connected to cables (not shown) that supply power to the lighting fixtures (lighting fixtures) 2. The number of connection parts 34 may be one or more. The lighting control device 3 can communicate with the input devices 5 via the cables. The number of input devices 5 may be one or more. Also, the type of input device 5 may be one or more.

[0035] Information for various settings of the lighting control system 1 and the lighting control device 3 is input using the terminal device 4. The terminal device 4 is equipped with a terminal display unit 44.

[0036] The terminal device 4 displays a connection selection object (not shown) indicating a connection section 34 and an input device selection object (not shown) indicating the type of input device 5 on the terminal display unit 44, which can be selected by the user. The input device selection object may correspond to only one type of input device 5. If one of the connection selection objects displayed on the terminal display unit 44 is selected by the user, and an input device selection object is also selected, one or more input device objects will be displayed on the terminal display unit 44.

[0037] Furthermore, when an input device object is selected by the user from among the input device objects displayed on the terminal display unit 44, setting information is generated indicating the association between the connection unit indicated by the selected connection unit selection object and the input device indicated by the selected input device object. This setting information is generated by the association unit 452.

[0038] The configuration information is transmitted from the terminal device 4 to the lighting control device 3 by the terminal communication unit 41. When the user performs any operation (input) on the input device 5, the lighting control device 3 supplies power to the lighting fixture 2 via the cable connected to the connection unit 34 associated with the operated input device 5, based on the configuration information according to the content of the user's operation.

[0039] <Main functions added to the lighting control device 3 (newSLC)> The association function described above is a function provided in conventional SLCs. The lighting control device 3 (newSLC) according to this embodiment, as will be described in detail later, is equipped with a function to store a structured database and utilize this structured database. The structured database is rewritten to reflect the various types of information collected. This function is mainly performed by the second communication unit 32 and the lighting control storage unit 33 shown in Figure 2.

[0040] Furthermore, the lighting control device 3 (newSLC) is equipped with a communication function that enables integration into the hierarchical lighting control system 1. This communication function can be realized by utilizing the first communication unit 31 and the second communication unit 32 to connect various devices (various sensors, micro-edge devices, etc.). The function of connecting to various devices (various sensors, micro-edge devices, etc.) is mainly performed by the first communication unit 31 and the connection unit 34 (connection units 34a to 34h) shown in Figure 2.

[0041] Furthermore, the lighting control device 3 (newSLC) is equipped with an ammeter function that enables the integration of an ammeter into the lighting control system 1. This ammeter function is a feature not found in conventional SLCs. This function is performed by the power measurement unit 356, etc. The power measurement unit 356 is configured using a power measurement device (power measurement IC). The power measurement unit 356 can measure, for example, the AC voltage (V), AC current (A), power factor, and power consumption (Wh) supplied to and consumed by the equipment to be measured (lighting fixture 2 (lighting fixture), etc.).

[0042] The following sections will provide a detailed explanation of the challenges solved and the advantages offered by the lighting control device 3 (newSLC) and the lighting control system 1 using the lighting control device 3 (newSLC). Furthermore, the use of the aforementioned structured body and the hierarchical structure of the lighting control system 1 will also be explained.

[0043] <Challenges in building smart buildings> <<Challenges during building construction>> Recent advancements in IT technology have led to a widespread trend towards building smart buildings. The challenges here are, firstly, a shortage of manpower, and secondly, soaring construction costs. Achieving smart building functionality goes beyond simply deploying physical devices and wiring cables. It requires the introduction and connection of monitoring equipment specific to each device being managed. It requires various labor-intensive and costly operations, such as complex designs, time-consuming equipment settings, model-specific construction work, cable wiring, etc. As a result, these issues have led to soaring construction costs.

[0044] <<Equipment Disconnection>> When promoting the smart building concept, it is inevitable to construct a system for visualizing energy consumption, that is, a unified monitoring (also known as "unified management") system. In a smart building, a system that can manage all aspects such as air conditioning, lighting, sanitation, monitoring, and energy in a unified manner is required. However, according to the common sense of traditional construction sites, it is natural that equipment such as air conditioning, lighting, sanitation, monitoring, and energy are individual. Introducing a unified management system by integrating these devices would incur a large amount of cost.

[0045] <<Suppression of Energy Consumption by ZEB Readiness>> Currently, efforts are underway to promote "carbon neutrality and ZEB transformation" and to achieve zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. In the promotion of carbon neutrality and ZEB (Net Zero Energy Building) transformation, when the current energy consumption is set as 100%, a state where energy conservation of -30% to -40% is achieved is regarded as ZEB-oriented, and a state where energy conservation of -50% is achieved is regarded as ZEB Ready (Figure 5). That is, the prerequisite is to aim for a 50% reduction in the current energy consumption, and the first challenge is how to achieve this 50% reduction.

[0046] <<Energy Consumption Ratio of Office Buildings>> When considering reducing the energy consumption in an office, the first thing to do is to understand where and how much electricity is being consumed. Generally, the energy consumption ratio in an office building is said to be 40% for air conditioning, 21% for lighting, 25% for outlets, 9% for elevators and power, 1% for hot water supply, and 4% for others (Figure 6). There can be no energy-saving activities without taking into account the consumption ratio for each of these devices. However, when trying to introduce an overall integrated management system, it was inevitable that the system would be costly. To avoid this, there are cases where an energy management system for each device is introduced and the results are output to EXCEL (registered trademark) (output to spreadsheet software) and then totaled up, but this is inefficient. To address this issue, NWC (registered trademark, the applicant of this application, hereinafter abbreviated) developed a system to facilitate the construction of an integrated management system. In this embodiment, the focus is on the lighting control system part and its content will be described.

[0047] <<System Configuration Focusing on Lighting>> When focusing on a system centered on lighting, NWC's lighting control system can be wirelessly connected not only to the on / off, dimming, and scheduler of lighting using a wireless switch, but also to temperature and humidity sensors, CO2 sensors, human presence sensors, and people counting, and can also control the blinds according to the number of people in the room. As a result, the electricity cost, which accounts for 21% of the energy consumption, can be wisely saved (Figure 7).

[0048] <NWC's Response to Smart Building Implementation> [[ID=??]] <<Construction of Lighting Control System>> The measures taken by NWC for smart building construction can be broadly grouped into two categories. The first is to facilitate the construction of an integrated management system for fragmented devices. The second is to improve the efficiency of the work involved in smart building construction.

[0049] [[ID=??]] <<Conventional Lighting Control System>> Conventional lighting control systems, as shown in Figure 8, consist of a light fixture (also called a "lighting fixture") and a wall switch. The light fixture turns on and off by switching the physical switch on the wall. When wiring cables from a wall switch, the wiring was done as follows:

[0050] In the case of new building construction, the usage patterns of the tenants are unknown, so the connection of switches and light fixtures is not considered. Wiring is carried out almost unconditionally, for example, by dividing the floor into multiple areas (areas 1-20) as shown in Figure 9. Furthermore, when tenants move in, the configuration of the already wired cables must be changed again according to the floor layout, resulting in significant waste in terms of cost. Figure 9 shows an example of an actual office floor and the wiring of light fixtures and switches. The numbers in the figure indicate the divided areas, with each area representing a light fixture area. One switch is linked to each of the 20 areas.

[0051] In constructing smart buildings, it is naturally necessary to have separate systems for collecting information using sensors and measuring power consumption (power supply and power consumption). Therefore, in addition to lighting, monitoring equipment for illuminance, motion, and CO2 sensors is included. Power consumption measurement also requires a separate system. In Figure 10, the vertical blocks labeled "Illuminance, Motion, and CO2" and "Power Consumption Measurement" represent the separate systems related to power consumption measurement.

[0052] The need for a separate system means that illuminance, motion, and CO2 sensors will need to be installed, along with a monitoring system for them. To measure the amount of electric power, a CT (Current Transformer) must be installed and a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller, sequencer) must be incorporated to configure a monitoring device (on the right side of FIG. 10). Specifically, the AC voltage (V), AC current (A), and power factor are calculated, and the integrated power (Wh) is calculated based on the observation time of the monitoring device. Based on the power source connected to the newSLC main body, the voltage and power factor are calculated in the internal circuit.

[0053] To build a unified management system, additional integrated equipment and programs are required. As a result, equipment costs, engineering costs, construction costs, etc. are incurred.

[0054] << Lighting Control System >> In order to build a lighting control system aimed at improving the handling convenience of lighting, reducing the construction load, and suppressing the amount of electric power, NWC developed a "Smart Lighting Controller" as a lighting control device (FIG. 11). Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-076040 (Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2023-165231) by the present applicant discloses the content related to this "Smart Lighting Controller". Hereinafter, the "Smart Lighting Controller" will be referred to as "SLC". The lighting control device 3 (newSLC) of the present embodiment is an enhanced version of the functions of this "SLC".

[0055] The SLC has eight connection parts 34 (connection parts 34a to 34h), and the SLC can control up to eight lighting groups. The SLC can perform EnOcean communication control, and the on / off of the lighting can be switched using an EnOcean wireless switch. Hereinafter, the configuration of the lighting control system using the SLC will be described. The following description of the lighting control system partially overlaps with the disclosure content in the aforementioned Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-076040 (Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2023-165231). Also, the following functions of the SLC are also implemented in the newSLC.

[0056] << Wiring When the SLC is Installed >> When an SLC is installed in the aforementioned office floor (such as the office floor in the example of FIG. 9), the wiring changes as shown in FIG. 12. In the example of FIG. 12, a floor similar to that in the example of FIG. 9 is divided into eight areas, which is significantly fewer than the 20 areas in the example of FIG. 9. Further, one SLC (shown within the round frame below the number) is installed in each area (Areas 1 to 8). And the cable wiring is connected to each SLC, and wireless communication is performed between each SLC and the lighting fixtures. That is, in the case of wiring during building renovation or in the construction of a new building in the future, the wiring as in the example of FIG. 12 can be used from the beginning. In this case, it is not necessary to lay wall switches or lay cable wiring. Moreover, the range can be flexibly combined according to partitions installed by the tenant, etc. The problem that the lighting lighting control range cannot be easily changed when the building is completed as in the conventional case is solved. Such advantages are common to the SLC and the newSLC.

[0057] <<Installation of SLC and sensors>> When introducing the SLC of NWC, lighting fixtures, wireless switches, and sensors are connected to the SLC. The ammeter, although it has a separate function from the SLC, can be connected to the iNBIS-330 (application edge device) via the micro-edge device. The iNBIS-330 is connected to the upper system of the SLC. When performing remote monitoring, monitoring and control can be performed via the cloud. When an SLC is installed, information from sensors such as illuminance, human presence, and CO2 can be taken into the SLC. In this case, the ammeter system is a separate system. In the newSLC, the ammeter system is integrated, which is a difference from the SLC.

[0058] Here, the micro-edge device and the application-edge device can be the same as those disclosed in Patent No. 7249078, Patent 7262035, Patent 7262036, etc. by the applicant of the present application.

[0059] Micro-edge devices are Level 1 sensor controllers that receive digital data transmitted from various wireless sensor devices (such as input devices (switches) in lighting control systems). Application edge devices are devices that constitute the upper layer (Level 2) of micro-edge devices. Application edge devices are responsible for collecting data for each management item (application) in a building, such as air conditioning, electricity (lighting, etc.), sanitation, and central monitoring.

[0060] At the micro-edge device (Level 1), data from sensors (Level 0) is aggregated, and the digitized data from the sensors (Level 0) is sent from the micro-edge device (Level 1) to the application edge device (Level 2). At the application edge device, each micro-edge device is assigned an IP address, and the application edge device is identified using the IP address. The application edge device then creates a structured entity (database) that integrates multiple types of micro-edge devices using different communication standards.

[0061] The created structured entity (database) records various attributes (including properties) of the collected data. These attributes include information such as IP address, building name, floor, area, management item, information type, data acquisition date, and data acquisition time. If the data involves sensors, it also includes information such as the detected values ​​of each sensor (detection value information) and on / off status.

[0062] In this way, in an application edge device, information on micro edge devices of different communication standards is integrated across the board. Then, regardless of differences in the specifications (signal standards, communication standards, OS (operating system), programming languages, etc.) of various types of information for each manufacturer (producer) and vendor (seller), information can be collected across the board, making it possible to provide integrated services to building managers, general users of facility equipment, and the like.

[0063] <<Introduction of new SLC>> Under such an existing environment, when the newly developed SLC (newSLC) of this embodiment is introduced, all lighting fixtures, wireless switches, and sensors can be connected to the SLC (including newSLC). This is common to the SLC shown in FIG. 13 and the newSLC shown in FIG. 14. It is also possible to replace all existing SLCs with newSLC. The ammeter is built into the newSLC. For this reason, connection of individual devices and construction of separate systems are unnecessary. This is a point different from the SLC. Control of lighting equipment, power consumption, etc. can be monitored and controlled via the cloud using Smart Palm (registered trademark).

[0064] "Smart Palm" is an intelligent tool (and service) capable of controlling lighting and air conditioning. Smart Palm is provided to building managers and general users, etc. via a browser. Smart Palm realizes a remote control for both lighting and air conditioning on a portable information terminal, making it possible to control and monitor lighting and air conditioning in the office. Smart Palm provides an operability as if the palm of the hand becomes a switch. Control and monitoring by Smart Palm can be performed in the in-house (on-site) network, but can also be performed from a remote location via the cloud.

[0065] In addition, the smart palm provided via a browser has a function of displaying the electricity consumption, for example, in terms of floor units, group units, and lighting units. Therefore, it is possible to check matters such as how much the electricity consumption is in the target range via a portable information terminal. Examples of the portable information terminal include smartphones, tablet terminals, notebook PCs, wearable terminals, and the like.

[0066] <Facilitate the construction of a unified management (also referred to as "unified monitoring") system by new SLC> <<Difficulty of connection (conventional problem)>> When attempting to construct a unified monitoring system for air conditioning, lighting, sanitation, monitoring, energy, etc. in order to achieve smart buildingization, it may seem easy at first glance, but it has been difficult to actually achieve.

[0067] One of the major reasons is that air conditioning, lighting, etc. are specialized fields for each area (management item), and since they can exist independently, it was difficult to connect them to each other (horizontal connection concept).

[0068] Another reason is that within each area (management item), there are multiple devices, and their manufacturers and connection forms are also different. Especially in the case of mechanical equipment (also referred to as "plant equipment"), the connection is based on the physical shape. However, when it comes to electrical and electronic connections, interfaces, protocols, etc. also become problems. It was difficult to unify these, and even with open standards, there were difficulties in connection (vertical connection concept).

[0069] <<Structure (Configuration of lighting control system using new SLC)>> Let's consider once again the structure of the devices used in smart buildings. Focusing on the lighting control system for explanation, the connection form between devices is as shown in FIG. 14. As shown in FIG. 14, there are lighting fixtures (lighting equipment) at the bottom (lower layer), and there is a lighting control device (newSLC) for controlling them. This newSLC controls the on / off of the lighting fixtures. Also, a wireless switch (wireless SW), an illuminance sensor, a human presence sensor, and a CO2 sensor are connected to the newSLC. Furthermore, a current meter is incorporated inside the newSLC. There is a micro-edge device (iNBIS-1051 in the example of FIG. 14) above (upper layer) the newSLC. The lighting fixtures and the newSLC are connected to the cloud via a gateway from the micro-edge device. Also, iNBIS-1051 has a reader for a SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) card. The smart palm is connected to the lighting fixtures via the cloud, and the lighting fixtures can be controlled using the smart palm. When controlling and monitoring the lighting fixtures from outside the in-house (on-premises) network using the smart palm, iNBIS-1051 is used.

[0070] In order to realize the connection of such control devices, communication devices, etc., conventionally, a considerable amount of adjustment has been required. / / This is just a tag, no content to translate Moreover, if one tries to build a unified management system while the device manufacturers are different or the specifications of the used devices are not clear, a considerable amount of labor, effort, technical ability, and cost are required. / / This is just a tag, no content to translate

[0071] / / This is just a tag, no content to translate / / This is just a tag, no content to translate If we consider using the newSLC alone without connecting it to upper-level devices or the cloud from the micro-edge device and only using it for the on / off control of the lighting fixtures, it can be considered in almost the same way as the connection of mechanical equipment inside the building. And in this case, the lighting control system is simply a system that can remotely turn on and off the power supply of the lighting fixtures. However, when using a wireless switch, controlling remotely, or using the cloud, the construction of a system at a considerably more complex level is required. / / This is just a tag, no content to translate

[0072] / / This is just a tag, no content to translate / / This is just a tag, no content to translate <<Features of newSLC>> One of the features of the lighting control device 3 (newSLC) according to this embodiment is that it facilitates the construction of a centralized management system by storing a structure similar to that of an application edge device in the lighting control device 3 (newSLC). The construction and rewriting of the structure can be performed by the lighting control device 3 (newSLC) itself using the control unit 35 (Figure 2). In other words, all the tedious and time-consuming tasks such as connecting, designing, configuring, adjusting, and programming equipment are completely eliminated. Furthermore, once a system including newSLC has been implemented, it is possible to change the areas for on / off control or change the grouping. Moreover, traditionally, changing the layout or control conditions required hiring a specialist contractor and having them perform the work on weekends, incurring significant costs each time. In contrast, with newSLC, even the settings themselves can be easily changed using a smartphone. Furthermore, by issuing QR codes (registered trademark), it's possible to change the control system and increase the number of users. In short, this eliminates the engineering work required for system construction. This makes lighting control more flexible.

[0073] <<Differences between home remote control and lighting control systems using newSLC>> In recent years, it has become possible to remotely control household lighting and air conditioners using smartphones and other devices. While newSLC shares some commonalities with these existing remote control systems, it is fundamentally different as a whole. The difference is that the home system simply uses a smartphone to control the remote control devices for lighting and air conditioning. Of course, it is possible to register multiple light fixtures and control them individually on and off, but the basic process is the same as registering them on a remote control (channel registration, registration of controlled devices). Such a home system cannot be used for lighting control on an office floor. The reason is that home lighting has a light-receiving part for a remote control, and through this light-receiving part, the power on / off of the lighting fixture is controlled. In contrast, office lighting fixtures do not have a remote control light-receiving part. In an office, it is required to control multiple lights simultaneously. Also, an office lighting control system controls the power supply to the lighting fixtures. These are the major differences between home and office applications. <000,0391> <Function of newSLC> To build a unified management system for lighting control, newSLC has the following functions.

[0075] <<On / Off control of the lighting fixture itself>> It has a control function for eight relay circuits. This inherits the function of SLC.

[0076] <<Cooperation with wireless switches and sensors>> It incorporates an EnOcean wireless transceiver system. In lighting control devices, lighting and a human presence sensor can be incorporated. The sensor itself is external. This inherits the function of SLC.

[0077] <<On / Off control of lighting by sensors>> A function is provided to turn on / off and change the illuminance according to the states of sensors. This inherits the function of SLC.

[0078] <<Grouping of lighting>> A grouping function is provided to combine eight relay circuits to make multiple lighting fixtures operate like a single lighting fixture. This inherits the function of SLC.

[0079] <<Change of lighting brightness>> In addition to the on / off control of lighting (lighting fixtures), a dimming function is provided. Note that models with and without dimming functionality are considered separate models. SLC (Sky-Lens Conduit) lighting also includes models with dimming functionality.

[0080] <<Controlled with a smartphone>> The on / off control, setting registration, and setting change functions of newSLC can now be controlled via information terminals such as smartphones. Furthermore, it doesn't require the installation of a dedicated app (application software); it can be controlled using a web browser. This means it is independent of smartphone models and operating systems. Furthermore, it can be operated from other information terminal devices such as tablets and personal computers. As shown in Figure 13, while SLC can also be connected to Smart Palm, newSLC incorporates structured components and current metering functions, enabling more advanced management capabilities via Smart Palm.

[0081] <<Information can be stored in the cloud and viewed remotely>> While the ability to control the lighting via smartphones and other devices is important, it's also crucial that the system isn't limited to operation within a specific office or the same Wi-Fi router's network area. It should also be possible to control the lighting from outside the office or building where the fixtures are installed. To enable these functions, the system is equipped with the capability to upload information to the cloud. As mentioned earlier, it was possible to upload (put on, send) information to the cloud with SLC, but with newSLC, information that enables more advanced management can be uploaded to the cloud.

[0082] <<Connection to the unified management system (newSLC)>> To enable unification with monitoring systems for air conditioning, sanitation, monitoring, and energy in newSLC, the structured format of the internal database is standardized. This standardization of the structured format (integration of formats) can be carried out in newSLC in the same way as the structured formats disclosed in the aforementioned patents No. 7249078, No. 7262035, No. 7262036, and No. 7570609, also by the present applicant. More specifically, first, a structured format, which is a database corresponding to each of the multiple types of communication standards, is constructed in newSLC, as in the invention described in claim 1 of patent No. 7570609. The newSLC internally stores and rewrites structured data. Therefore, the monitoring systems (management items) for HVAC, sanitation, monitoring, and energy are centralized within the newSLC (lighting control device 3). This is one of the improvements compared to the original SLC. Furthermore, newSLC allows for rewriting information within structured data.

[0083] <<Autonomous Distributed System>> In conventional SLCs, the scheduler function operated based on instructions from higher-level application edge devices. In contrast, newSLC manages its own structured data, so once the settings are configured and operation begins, newSLC can operate independently. Furthermore, intervention from higher-level application edge devices is unnecessary.

[0084] <<Change in communication standards>> Conventional SLCs used the LonWorks® communication standard, but required various function settings, and these settings were difficult to configure. In contrast, newSLC uses modbusTCP for communication between controllers. It also employs Ethernet cable and is equipped with daisy-chain return line connectors (in this case, independent connectors).

[0085] <<Internal database>> The conventional SLC was controlled by the upper-level iNBIS-330 (product name of the application edge device of NWC). In contrast, since the newSLC manages the structure by itself, it can operate independently. And to facilitate setting changes, it incorporates some functions of conventional productivity tools. Specifically, an initial value is registered in the set value stored in the structure, and the setting can be changed simply by changing it as needed.

[0086] <<Ease of changing grouping>> In the newSLC, due to the built-in productivity tool function and database (structure), setting changes have become easier, so changing grouping has also become easier.

[0087] <Ingenuity for constructing a monitoring system using newSLC> The reason why the newSLC can perform the above functions and operations will be explained below.

[0088] <<Solutions to previous problems>> So far, the biggest difficulty when trying to build a smart building has been that the monitoring systems of the building, such as air conditioning, lighting, sanitation, monitoring, and energy, have been fragmented. Therefore, unified monitoring could not be achieved, or the system has become expensive. What is necessary for this response is related to the design concept itself. If a unified monitoring system requires the integration of air conditioning, lighting, sanitation, monitoring, and energy, then from the beginning, it is essential to build a mechanism assuming that these will be monitored. That is, if a unified monitoring system for air conditioning, lighting, sanitation, monitoring, energy, etc. is to be created, it is necessary to have a database of the information structure possessed by each device from the very beginning of system construction. Because the information held by each device is different, if the way of holding information is not determined from the conceptual stage of trying to create a unified monitoring system, the connection of each device will become insufficient. Therefore, to achieve this, NWC has incorporated a hierarchical structure into the lighting control system, consisting of sensors, micro-edge devices, application edge devices, and the cloud. newSLC is positioned as a micro-edge device. A common, end-to-end database structure has been established across all these levels (layers). Furthermore, the system defines everything from the standardization of data management for each device to how data is handled (data management methods) from the end devices that collect data, such as sensors, to the highest-level point where it is displayed as a monitoring system, thus envisioning the construction of this unified monitoring system. Even before this, there was a desire to control lighting based on sunlight and the presence of people, and to obtain information on total power consumption. However, there were reasons why these things could not be done. One reason was the high cost of the equipment. Another reason was the high cost, including the design and construction costs for building the system. For these reasons, the construction of smart building management systems had to be fragmented, but newSLC has made it possible to build systems without fragmentation by incorporating the necessary sensors for system construction, adding functions to measure power consumption, and making various other improvements. The inventors have made various improvements to make it easy to construct a lighting control system, incorporating not only external improvements to the equipment but also various internal functions.

[0089] <<It has a structured body>> Although this overlaps somewhat with what was explained earlier, newSLC has been given a structured data set (stored data). Then, information from wireless switches and various sensors (illuminance, motion detection, CO2, etc.) is uploaded to the centralized management system (collected and uploaded) and recorded in the structured data set. Without this feature, it would be necessary to program the functionality from scratch for each equipment manufacturer and communication standard, which would be extremely time-consuming (requiring a lot of manpower).

[0090] <<It has the functionality to connect to the cloud.>> Connecting to the cloud requires specific procedures. Furthermore, simply uploading (collecting) data isn't enough; accepting control inputs requires appropriate programming (software development). By integrating cloud connectivity and control input acceptance functions into newSLC, we enabled cloud connectivity.

[0091] <<Has management functions>> Traditional SLCs lacked management functions. Therefore, the information needed to enter the settings was held on the higher-level system, the application edge device, and the registration data was generated from there by a productivity tool and written to the SLC. In contrast, newSLC has management functions and stores a database (structured data) internally. Therefore, it is possible to rewrite the configuration data on newSLC. This effect is surprisingly significant, contributing to various aspects such as enhanced device functionality, independent and distributed capabilities, easy configuration, and the ability to make copies. Furthermore, newSLC may also be used in conjunction with application edge devices. Application edge devices have the functionality to display the EMS (Energy Management System) screen. If lighting control is not performed using newSLC, lighting can be controlled using newSLC and Smart Palm without the need for an application edge device.

[0092] <Introduction of a lighting control system> <<It was difficult to control>> The biggest reason why a unified management system for lighting control systems has not been realized until now is the lack of lighting control equipment (lighting control devices) with communication capabilities, such as SLC and newSLC. Traditionally, lighting control devices were sufficient if they could simply control the on / off state of the lighting fixtures themselves. Conventional lighting control devices could distinguish between on and off states and control those states. However, in recent years, this alone is no longer sufficient, and there is a growing demand for control that can adapt to ambient illuminance levels. Conventional equipment lacked the ability to integrate the on / off control of lighting fixtures with communication functions.

[0093] <<The environment has changed>> A major challenge in introducing lighting control equipment was that the wiring costs, design costs, and installation costs for combining wall switches with conventional light fixtures were low, and therefore did not represent a significant economic burden. In other words, a major challenge in the past was that the price, design, and setup costs of lighting control equipment were higher than the wiring costs, design costs, and installation costs. Moreover, considering the lifespan of lighting control equipment, it was undeniable that the conventional method was even more cost-effective (left-hand diagram in Figure 15). However, with the recent advancements in communication technology and IoT, as well as the growing trend towards carbon neutrality, the introduction of lighting control systems has become indispensable. Furthermore, in recent years, the price, design, and setup costs of lighting control equipment have decreased, and labor costs have become a greater burden compared to these expenses. In other words, while mechanical and cable-wired systems were traditionally cheaper (left side of Figure 15), in recent years, electronic and wireless systems have become cheaper as a result (right side of Figure 15). In fact, when comparing the cost of using the conventional method for cable wiring in recent office construction projects with the new method combining lighting control equipment and wireless technology, the new method is considerably cheaper. This is because the installation costs of the system components have become significantly lower. Moreover, considering the possibility of retrofitting the system components of the new system after construction using the conventional method, it is actually cheaper to introduce the new system from the very beginning of the building design phase.

[0094] <Advantages of new SLC> When trying to incorporate lighting control devices (system component devices) into a unified management system, there are restrictions due to the manufacturers' closed systems. Since lighting equipment manufacturers do not disclose their control information (specification information and other technical information) in detail, it is not easy to connect lighting equipment from different manufacturers in one lighting control system. Therefore, NWC developed its own lighting control device and treats it as one of the unified management systems. At that time, the conventional SLC incorporated the functions of sensors. In order to enhance the convenience of the conventional SLC, new SLC (the lighting control device 3 according to this embodiment) was developed so that functions can be integrated. SLC and new SLC are common in basic lighting control functions, but new SLC has added some functions as described partially before.

[0095] <Functions provided in new SLC to solve conventional problems> <Facilitate connection> As described before, the difficulties in introducing a lighting control system lie in design and setting. If it is simply to turn on and off the lighting mechanically, the design and setting are simple. However, when adding a wireless switch, adding sensors such as illuminance meters, controlling the lighting according to the value of the illuminance meter, uploading information to the cloud, or integrating a power meter, design and setting for defining these functions become necessary. This part is difficult. Specifically, what is difficult is to define the information related to the combination function of the function of controlling lighting, the collection of information such as illuminance, and how to operate the lighting by combining them. To eliminate this difficulty, NWC incorporated these functions as initial settings in advance and incorporated standard functions as parameters. Therefore, essentially, instead of manually entering settings from scratch as in the past, it is now possible to simply modify standard parameter values ​​as needed. These features allowed us to build a lighting control system that could be operated immediately after connecting the equipment cables. More details on this will be discussed later.

[0096] <<Settings can be easily changed>> While the settings for lighting control equipment aren't changed very often, grouping settings may be altered as needed, such as during layout changes. Traditionally, this would have required calling in a contractor to configure the lighting control equipment. However, with newSLC, grouping can be easily changed using a smartphone.

[0097] <<Possessing intelligence>> One of the most significant measures taken to facilitate the construction of a unified management system was to give newSLC itself intelligence. This allows newSLC to have a database within it, enabling independent grouping and scheduler operation without the need for iNBIS-330 (the product name for NWC's application edge device). Furthermore, this enables newSLC to operate as an autonomous distributed device with its own CPU.

[0098] <Benefits of integrating functions> <<Systematic Benefits>> The development of this new SLC offers various advantages. One of the systemic advantages (the benefit of easier system construction) is that it has become easier to construct the lighting control system, which is part of the centralized management system. Ultimately, a unified management system is a mechanism that manages systems that are currently managed separately for each area (management item), such as air conditioning, lighting, sanitation, monitoring, and energy, as a whole. Therefore, it is necessary to facilitate the collection and management of information in each field. The lighting control device 3 (newSLC) according to this embodiment facilitates the construction of this lighting control system.

[0099] <<Equipment advantages>> The advantages of this lighting control system (benefits from functional integration) can be listed as follows: (1) It is now possible to connect sensors such as illuminance meters to a single newSLC. This eliminates the need to set up a separate system and use a light meter. This aspect is inherited from the SLC's functionality. (2) The incorporation of an electricity meter. Traditionally, one would have had to purchase the electricity meter itself. I needed to set up a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) to retrieve data from the electricity meter. We needed to create a system to collect and display electricity consumption data. Of course, building a system means that settings will be added to it, and if these are integrated, they will be simplified. Intermediate devices for data conversion will also become unnecessary. By integrating the functions, these become obsolete. This is one of the key features of newSLC.

[0100] <<Cost Benefits>> Reducing the amount of equipment reduces equipment costs. Equipment setup costs also decrease. Engineering costs decrease. Meetings with other vendors become unnecessary altogether. In addition to the cost of the equipment, using wireless technology eliminates the need for wiring work and associated costs. No setup or programming is required. The construction process itself will become simpler, which will have an impact on various aspects such as the construction period and the role of site supervisors. The total cost will be significantly reduced, resulting in enormous cost benefits. This point will become even more pronounced with newSLC.

[0101] <<Operational Benefits>> The operational advantage is that the equipment becomes a single unit, resulting in a unified system and simpler control. Only one monitoring system is needed. If remote monitoring becomes possible using the cloud, it will no longer be necessary to have personnel stationed in a central monitoring room to monitor operations, as was done in the past. You will only receive an alarm on your smartphone when an anomaly occurs, and you will only need to investigate and respond to the situation as needed. The cost of managing on-site personnel for this purpose will be drastically reduced. This point will become even more pronounced with newSLC.

[0102] <Improve work efficiency> <<Labor-saving in construction>> SLC and newSLC eliminate the need for wall switches, thus eliminating the need for wiring work related to switches. Similarly, the use of wireless sensors and wireless switches can also eliminate the need for cable laying work. This eliminates the need for cable laying and rework associated with layout changes, tasks that were previously taken for granted. Doing so would yield significant cost savings. The time and material costs associated with creating cable wiring diagrams, design work, approval processes, cable laying and construction, inspection, material procurement, and switch installation can be eliminated, resulting in cost savings that far exceed the initial cost of introducing lighting control equipment. The left side of Figure 16 shows an image of the installation process using conventional (wired) technology. The right side shows an image of the installation process when SLC or newSLC is applied (wireless).

[0103] <<Simplification of wiring work>> In lighting wiring work, the most time-consuming part is often the wiring connections. The NWC Design Tool (part of the functionality of the NWC Design Tool is disclosed in the aforementioned Patent No. 7570609) allows for pre-setting the required cable length from the floor plan, and then transporting pre-cut cables to the installation location (spider net). This allows for easy connection of lighting equipment to newSLC. This simplifies the work required for installation. Figures 17(a) to (c) show examples of wiring connections related to newSLC. Figure 17(a) shows the state with wiring connected to newSLC. Figure 17(b) shows a photograph of a device (Kamenoko Net, Kamenoko Net® registered trademark) used for the mutual wiring connections of multiple lighting fixtures. Figure 17(c) shows an example of wiring connection using the Kamenoko Net shown in Figure 17(b). A dashed-line connection device like the Kamenoko Net has the function of integrating and grouping multiple lighting fixtures into a single connection part 34 (connection parts 34a to 34h) in terms of wiring structure.

[0104] <Monitoring and control using smart palm> <<Remote Control>> Smart Palm (trademark registered) is a tool that allows you to manage lighting control systems using your smartphone. No special app is required; it operates directly in a web browser. Basic functions include registering and deleting lighting fixtures, grouping them, turning them on and off, dimming them, and checking power usage. Since these tasks can be performed from each user's smartphone, there is no longer a need to install a dedicated system as was previously required. Furthermore, monitoring and control are possible not only from within the company but also from outside the building. Figures 18(a) to (e) show screen display examples by Smart Palm (registered trademark). Figure 18(a) is an example of a display screen for smart writing, and Figure 18(b) is an example of a display screen for an alarm. Figure 18(c) is an example of a display screen for conveying a trend related to current consumption, and Figure 18(d) is an example of a display screen showing a selection menu (current, number of operations, operation time, etc.) of the trend to be displayed. Figure 18(e) is an example of a display screen showing a list of two-dimensional codes (here, QR codes (registered trademark)) for identifying devices to be the target of information display.

[0105] <<Integration of Composite Functions>> Since many functions have already been realized in the SLC, it may seem like an easy task to be performed in a lighting control system including the new SLC. However, by including the new SLC, the incorporation of sensor functions and power functions, the integration of micro-edge device functions, the incorporation of monitoring control functions, the generation of trend graphs, the cooperation with cloud functions, and the cooperation with air conditioning systems are realized. In addition, by incorporating various findings such as evolving the functions of the new SLC device itself, constructing the consistency of data exchange with the unified management system side, and developing programs for smooth operation on smartphones, for the first time, the construction of a lighting control system can be easily and inexpensively constructed.

[0106] <Relationship between new SLC and Application Edge Device> Next, the relationship between the new SLC and the application edge device will be described. As shown in the example of Figure 13, the new SLC and the application edge device (iNBIS-330 in the example of Figure 13) may be used in combination and connected to each other.

[0107] < >The new SLC and the application edge device have different uses. The new SLC is used for lighting control, and the application edge device is used for the control of the EMS (Energy Management System).

[0108] Conventional SLC products operated under control from application edge devices. Therefore, SLCs needed to be used in conjunction with application edge devices. In contrast, newSLC has its own structured database and CPU, enabling autonomous distributed operation. Consequently, newSLC can perform lighting control operations without the need for application edge devices.

[0109] Furthermore, in the example shown in Figure 13, there are situations where the SLC is replaced by the newSLC, and other equipment continues to be used as is. Therefore, the newSLC may also be connected to an application edge device (iNBIS-330 in the example shown in Figure 13).

[0110] In the example in Figure 13, the gateway refers to either an internet gateway or an LTE (Long Term Evolution) network device. Furthermore, the iNBIS-330 is a device that does not have a SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) card reader. Therefore, the iNBIS-330 connects to the cloud via a gateway (internet gateway).

[0111] Even if an application edge device (in this case, iNBIS-330) is not installed, the system size is not limited to that of a single newSLC unit. Connecting newSLCs can be done in the same way as shown in Figure 11. While only one channel is connected in the example in Figure 11, a single newSLC can connect up to eight channels. To connect more than eight channels, multiple newSLCs can be installed, as shown in the example in Figure 12. The newSLCs are connected to each other via LAN cables. In the example in Figure 12, the grouping function can be used to configure which lighting fixtures a single wireless switch controls.

[0112] In the example shown in Figure 12, if monitoring by an EMS (Energy Management System) is performed, the iNBIS-330 is installed at a higher level. If only lighting control is required and a screen for EMS monitoring (EMS screen) is not needed, then the installation of iNBIS-330 is not necessarily required. For example, lighting control and setting changes can be done using a mobile device such as a smartphone.

[0113] <When registering a new wireless switch> When a new wireless switch is registered, it is necessary to register it to the structured entity on the newSLC side. In this case, no configuration to the structured entity is required on the application edge device side.

[0114] In newSLC, similar to the structured entities for application edge devices, the created structured entities (databases) record various attributes (including properties) of the collected data. The recorded attributes include information such as IP address, building name, floor, area, management item, information type, information acquisition date, and information acquisition time. The structured entity is a database, and information such as lighting on / off status and changes in status are recorded within it.

[0115] Configuration information, such as information related to the registration of wireless switches, is registered on the newSLC or SLC side. In conventional SLCs, this configuration was done using a productivity tool. In the case of newSLC, details such as which wireless switch and which channel of newSLC (connection section 34 (connection sections 34a to 34h)) to link are registered (configured) using the configuration function provided in newSLC.

[0116] The following describes how to connect a wireless switch to a new SLC or application edge device. The connection between the wireless switch and other devices is done manually. It is necessary to specify which wireless switch should be connected to which device (either a newSLC or an application edge device). An EnOcean antenna is also required in this process.

[0117] In newSLC, wireless switches are registered with newSLC using a PC (Personal Computer) or a control monitor. A terminal device 4 (Figure 4) can be used as the PC, and a terminal display unit 44 can be used as the control monitor. When using conventional SLC, wireless SW registration must be performed on the application edge device (iNBIS-330) using the productivity tool. It is also possible to register the wireless switch directly to the application edge device (iNBIS-330). Furthermore, as shown in Figure 13, for example, in order to connect wireless switches or other devices (sensors, etc.) to an SLC, it is necessary to specify which wireless switches, etc., should be connected to which SLC.

[0118] The settings screen for newSLC displays information such as which wireless switches are located near the newSLC. The settings screen for newSLC is displayed, for example, on the terminal display unit 44 of the terminal device (Figure 1). On the settings screen, you specify the wireless switch you want to register and register it. The display of wireless switch information is done automatically, but the wireless switch is specified manually. Figure 19 shows an example of the settings screen for a wireless switch related to newSLC (after registration). The rectangular frame A0 in Figure 19 encloses the display area for information about the device being registered. Note that the rectangular frames A0, A11, A12, A21, etc., shown with symbols from Figure 19 onward, and the image of fingers superimposed on rectangular frame A53 in Figure 27, were added to the captured images of the display screen to clarify the relevant areas.

[0119] What is registered in newSLC is information within the scope managed by newSLC. Since iNBIS-330 etc. (application edge devices) are the upper-level systems of newSLC, what is registered in newSLC is information within the scope managed by iNBIS-330 etc.

[0120] <Supplementary Explanation of the Functions Provided in newSLC> <<Matters to be Supplementary Explained>> In the item of <<Facilitating Connection>> in the <Functions Provided in newSLC to Solve the Conventional Problems> mentioned above, "To eliminate this difficulty, NWC incorporated these functions as initial settings in advance and incorporated standard functions as parameters." Therefore, basically, instead of entering the set values from scratch as in the past, it is only necessary to modify the standard parameter values as needed." This was explained. Regarding the "set values" and "standard parameter values" in this, and matters related to them, supplementary explanations will be given below.

[0121] There are mainly three types of device settings, which are explained below. (1) Settings related to the installation for positioning newSLC (2) Settings regarding the registration of sensors and wireless devices (3) Settings for binding to achieve cooperation between newSLC and wireless devices

[0122] <<(1) Settings related to the installation for positioning newSLC>> In order to determine the positioning of the newSLC device, it is only necessary to perform two registrations: the IP address and the device ID. Also, if the network environment is connected and the IP address is determined, by specifying that address, the device ID will be automatically obtained and registered. If there is no network environment, the IP address and the device ID are specified. The rectangular frames A11 and A12 in Figure 20 indicate the relevant parts on the setting screen.

[0123] When a newSLC is registered, it is displayed hierarchically on the left side of the screen. This allows you to visually understand the registered newSLCs. To check or change the settings, select the newSLC, and the registered standard values ​​will be displayed. Change the settings as needed. Rectangular frame A21 in Figure 21 indicates the relevant area in the settings screen.

[0124] <<(2) Settings for registering sensors and wireless devices>> Regarding the sensors and wireless devices to be connected, the sensors and wireless devices are selected on the registration screen shown in Figure 22. In the case of wireless devices manufactured by EnOcean, after selecting the device, pressing the "EnOcean Device Management Settings" button, which is enclosed in the rectangular frame A31 in Figure 22, will register the basic information of the selected device. When an illuminance sensor is registered, the illuminance levels at which the lights turn on and off are pre-set as default values. Rectangular frames A41 and A42 in Figure 23 indicate the relevant sections in the illuminance sensor settings screen. Furthermore, the values ​​to be registered are displayed as standard parameter values ​​in the form of on / off, range settings, and selection of the relevant item, and the values ​​can be changed as needed (Figure 24).

[0125] <<(3) Binding settings to enable communication between newSLC and wireless devices>> Setting up sensors and wireless devices only requires a few simple steps, without needing to go through complicated configurations. Examples of binding (linking) wireless switches are explained sequentially using Figures 25 to 34. The rectangular frames A51 to A61 in each figure indicate the relevant areas in the settings screen. Note that in some figures (Figures 26 and 27), user actions are indicated by superimposed diagrams of hands.

[0126] (A) Select "Switch Registration Procedure" (Figure 25). (B) Turn the wireless switch on / off (Figure 26). (C) Information about the on / off wireless switch will be automatically displayed at the bottom of the screen (rectangular frame A52 in Figure 27). Select the device you want to register and press the "Register" button (rectangular frame A53). (D) The device ID of the wireless switch will be displayed (rectangular frame A54 in Figure 28), so press the "Register" button (rectangular frame A55). (E) Once registered correctly, it will appear in the "Registered Devices" section at the top of the screen (rectangular frame A56 in Figure 29) (rectangular frame A57). (F) Select "Switch" (rectangular frame A58 in Figure 30). (G) Register the "switch name" (rectangular frame A59 in Figure 31). (H) Register the switch name (rectangular frame A60 in Figure 32). (I) Select "Relay Group" (rectangular frame A61 in Figure 33). (J) Register to "switch1" (select the channel to register, Figure 34).

[0127] Following the above steps, the interaction between newSLC and the wireless switch is established, and the lighting that turns on / off can be determined by switching the wireless switch on / off.

[0128] <<What is a structured body?>> The data acquired in smart buildings basically has attributes. The content of the data acquired differs between analog and digital data. For example, with analog data, temperature is defined as having a range of values ​​from 0 to 100, and the range of values ​​changes depending on the attribute (in this case, temperature). This determines the structure of the data. Furthermore, the definition changes depending on the value, such as determining whether a temperature below a certain level is considered "LOW" or above a certain level is considered "HIGH." Various parameters are then attached to this.

[0129] Similarly, the content of values ​​in digital data and pulse data changes depending on the data type. Rules are individually defined for the content and range of these values. Structured data stores information about these rules and the values ​​corresponding to those rules in a database. This data is managed, for example, by setting "LOW ALARM" or thresholds, to ensure that appropriate data is set (and stored).

[0130] These types of structured bodies are referred to as "analog structured bodies," "digital structured bodies," and "pulse structured bodies," respectively.

[0131] <<The meaning of having a structured body>> A structured data set is a way of organizing information that describes the operation of hardware (H / W) in a way that is easy for humans to understand. The type of structured object varies depending on its attributes. The processing of the structured material varies depending on its type and the value of its change. The control (management) of the structured entity is performed using software.

[0132] <<Effects with a structured form>> The reason for having a structured system is that the types of data being monitored and controlled differ, such as lighting, air conditioning, sanitation, status, and energy. In structured data, although the data types may differ, the content of the data remains the same regardless of the manufacturer or equipment (model, etc.). In other words, we constructed a structured system so that the format of the data exchanged with the device remains the same, regardless of the equipment used.

[0133] The advantages of using structured materials are significant. This is because, traditionally, in most cases, the way data was stored was changed to suit the device. Before using structured data, different devices had different resolutions and different data ranges (for example, a range of 0 to 100 degrees), requiring adjustments to the data range to be accepted each time. Instead of adapting to the performance and attributes of individual devices in conventional smart building construction, we standardized the way data is stored to be independent of individual devices. This is the form of a structured body, and the essence of a structured body lies in defining how data should be handled according to matters such as lighting, temperature, and air conditioning. By using this structured format, the way data is stored is determined independently of the device. As a result, when interacting with external devices, the type of device being used is no longer an external issue; instead, the focus shifts to an internal issue of how the data is processed internally. Thus, because building management is no longer dependent on equipment, it has become easier to construct smart buildings. This is a major benefit of having a structural framework. Furthermore, by incorporating such a structured material into newSLC, a new value has been created for the mulberry material.

[0134] <Example of structured object and configuration changes> Figure 35(a) shows an example of a structured entity. As mentioned above, the structured entity functions as a database. Various types of information are registered in the structured entity, such as connection ID, input device ID, IP address, building name, floor, area (group), on / off status, and dimming value. In addition, as shown in Figure 36, historical data (log data) for lighting fixture 2, such as the amount of power supplied, the amount of power consumed, the date of information acquisition, and the time of information acquisition, are also registered as information that constitutes part of the structured entity.

[0135] For example, it is possible to combine structured entities (databases) as shown in Figures 35(a) and 36 and refer to them as a "combination structure," and to refer to the individual structured entities in Figures 35(a) and 36 as "sub-combination structures," etc.

[0136] In the lighting control device 3 according to this embodiment, as described above, changes in grouping and changes in power supply are reflected in the structured body. For example, when a specific input device (here referred to as "SW01") is changed from group 1 to group 2, when the operation to change the group is performed on a smartphone (smart palm), the numerical value of the corresponding cell in the "area (group)" in the structured body changes from group 1 (group 1) to group 2 (group 2), as shown in Figure 35(b).

[0137] In other words, with respect to newSLC (lighting control device 3), the only settings that can be changed in Smart Palm are those related to the grouping of lights. Smart Palm allows you to set which group each of the eight connection points 34a to 34h is assigned to. You can also set the names of the assigned connection points 34a to 34h using letters, numbers, symbols, etc.

[0138] Furthermore, each newSLC unit is equipped with eight controllable channels (relay circuits, channels), and each channel corresponds to eight connection points 34 (connection points 34a to 34h). Each of these eight channels (connection points 34a to 34h) can be assigned to a different group.

[0139] For example, in Figure 35(a), in the structured entity, all the values ​​in the "Area (Group)" column are "1", and the eight channels (corresponding to connection IDs 1 to 8) are assigned to Group 1.

[0140] However, for example, by performing an operation to change the group on a smartphone (smart palm), it is possible to change the group of some channels (in this case, connection ID=6~8) to a group other than "1", as shown in the "Area (Group)" column in Figure 35(b).

[0141] Furthermore, such group changes can be carried out in various ways. For example, channels 1 to 4 (corresponding to connection IDs 1 to 4) can be designated as Group 1, and channels 5 to 8 (corresponding to connection IDs 5 to 8) can be designated as Group 2.

[0142] Furthermore, in cases such as "changing Group 1 to Group 2," it is possible to make it so that "Group 1 and Group 2 become one group" on a newSLC basis. For example, in Figure 37(a), multiple newSLCs are installed on one floor, and each newSLC constitutes one group. In the example in Figure 37(a), eight newSLCs are used, and eight groups (Groups 1 to 8) are formed. The numbers "1" to "8" in Figure 37(a) indicate the group numbers.

[0143] Furthermore, in the case of "changing Group 1 to Group 2" as shown in Figure 37(a), it is possible to change all lighting fixtures in Group 1 to Group 2, as shown in Figure 37(b). In this case, Group 1 is eliminated.

[0144] Figure 38(a) shows an example of a structured body before the group change (corresponding to Figure 37(a)), and Figure 38(b) shows an example of a structured body after the group change (corresponding to Figure 37(b)).

[0145] In Figure 38(a), all the values ​​in the "Area (Group)" column are "1". In contrast, in Figure 38(b), all the values ​​in the "Area (Group)" column have been changed to "2". In this case, when the switch for Group 2 is turned on / off after the group change, the lighting for the Group 2 area, which includes the area of ​​the original Group 1, will be turned on / off.

[0146] Here, the connection between newSLC (lighting control device 3) and the cloud can be made via the second communication unit 32. Then, newSLC provides information measured by the power measurement unit 356 to the user's smartphone or other device via the cloud when requested by the user's smartphone or other device. The information measured by the power measurement unit 356 includes, for example, information such as AC voltage (V), AC current (A), power factor, and power consumption (Wh) related to the supply to the lighting fixture 2 and the consumption by the lighting fixture 2. There is also information on the amount of power (supplied power amount, consumed power amount, etc.) calculated using this information.

[0147] Furthermore, a power supply (not shown) that provides power to the lighting fixture 2 is connected to the newSLC. The newSLC then measures the power supplied to the lighting fixture 2 using a power measurement unit 356 and provides information such as electricity usage to the user's smartphone or other device.

[0148] In this embodiment, the power measurement unit 356 calculates voltage, power factor, etc., based on the power supply connected to the newSLC. Then, the electricity usage (supplied power, consumed power, etc.) is measured by combining the data for the eight connection points 34a to 34h (the total for the eight connection points 34a to 34h).

[0149] However, this is not the only option; for example, the power measurement unit 356 may be configured to measure electricity usage at each connection point 34a to 34h.

[0150] Furthermore, in the structured system, in addition to the lighting and energy information described above, information related to, for example, air conditioning, sanitation, and monitoring is also registered. Figure 36 shows an example of energy information related to lighting, but structured systems (not shown) are also provided for air conditioning, sanitation, monitoring, and energy.

[0151] Furthermore, by providing information on such structured systems to users' smartphones, etc., and by reflecting changes made by users regarding lighting, energy, air conditioning, sanitation, monitoring, etc., into these structured systems, it becomes possible to easily build a system for "visualizing" and "centralized monitoring" (centralized management) of energy consumption.

[0152] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 12 and 37, when multiple newSLCs (lighting control devices 3) are used, each newSLC is provided with a structured body, such as those shown in Figures 35(a), (b) and 36, and other structured bodies containing information. The record of the structured body for each newSLC is then modified in accordance with changes in the collected information.

[0153] <Regarding "Information Acquisition Time"> The aforementioned "information acquisition time" (not shown in the diagram) refers to the detection time (or reception time) of information such as temperature, humidity, illuminance, acceleration, and contact detected by the sensor (EnOcean multi-sensor) related to the input device 5. In addition, the detection time of equipment malfunctions in newSLC, etc., is also included in the "information acquisition time".

[0154] <Inventions that can be extracted from the embodiments> From the embodiments described so far, it is possible to extract the following inventions. (1) Control unit (control unit 35, etc.) A storage unit (such as the lighting control storage unit 33) capable of storing a structured database, A communication unit (first communication unit 31, etc.) that enables wireless communication with at least one input device (input device 5, etc.), It is equipped with multiple connection points (connection points 34 (connection points 34a to 34h), etc.) that can be connected to a cable (power cable, etc.) that supplies power to a lighting fixture (lighting fixture 2, etc.), It has a function to control the power supplied to the lighting fixtures based on setting information created in an external terminal device (such as terminal device 4) that indicates the association between the input device and the connection part, and controls up to a number of groups of lighting fixtures corresponding to the number of connection parts in response to control signals from the input device received via wireless communication. The lighting fixture is equipped with a power measuring unit (such as a power measuring unit 356) capable of measuring the power consumption of the aforementioned lighting fixture. The structured body records at least the power consumption information for the lighting fixture, The control unit is used to rewrite the structured body, The rewriting of the structured body includes rewriting the power consumption measured by the power measurement unit. It can connect to the cloud, A lighting control device (lighting control device 3, etc.) that, via the aforementioned cloud, provides electricity usage information to a user's mobile information terminal (such as a smartphone) when requested by the mobile information terminal. (2) The lighting control device according to (1) above, wherein a power supply is connected to the lighting fixture, the power supplied from the power supply to the lighting fixture is measured by the power measurement unit, and the power consumption information is provided to the portable information terminal. (3) The structured body records information on the grouping of the lighting fixtures, The lighting control device according to (2) above, wherein the grouping of the lighting fixtures can be changed using the control unit. (4) The lighting control device according to (3) above, wherein when the grouping of the lighting fixtures is changed, the structured body is rewritten whether a part of the connection part is assigned to another group or all of the connection part is assigned to another group. (5) A lighting control system having at least one input device (such as input device 5) and a lighting control device (such as lighting control device 3) that can communicate with it, and a user terminal device (such as terminal device 4), The aforementioned lighting control device is Control unit (control unit 35, etc.) A storage unit (such as the lighting control storage unit 33) capable of storing a structured database, A communication unit (such as the first communication unit 31) that enables wireless communication with at least one of the input devices, Multiple connection points (connection points 34 (connection points 34a~34h), etc.) that can be connected to a cable (power cable, etc.) that supplies power to a lighting fixture (lighting fixture 2, etc.), It has a function to control the power supplied to the lighting fixtures based on setting information created in the external terminal device that indicates the association between the input device and the connection part, and controls up to a number of groups of lighting fixtures corresponding to the number of connection parts in response to control signals from the input device received via wireless communication. The lighting fixture is equipped with a power measuring unit (such as a power measuring unit 356) capable of measuring the power consumption of the aforementioned lighting fixture. The structured body records at least the power consumption information for the lighting fixture, The control unit is used to rewrite the structured body, The rewriting of the structured body includes rewriting the power consumption measured by the power measurement unit. It can connect to the cloud, A lighting control system that, via the aforementioned cloud, provides electricity usage information to a user's mobile device (such as a smartphone) when requested by the user's mobile device.

[0155] <Other> Those skilled in the art should understand that various changes, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0156] 1: Lighting control system 2: Lighting fixtures 3: Lighting control device 4: Terminal device 5: Input device 6: Antenna 31: First Communications Department 32: Second Communications Department 33: Lighting control memory unit 34 (34a~34h): Connection part 35: Control Unit 351: Receiving unit 352: Transmitter 353: Registration Department 356: Power Measurement Unit

Claims

1. Control unit and A storage unit capable of storing a structured database, A communication unit that enables wireless communication with at least one input device, It has multiple connection points that can be connected to cables that supply power to lighting fixtures, It has a function to control the power supplied to the lighting fixtures based on setting information created in an external terminal device that indicates the association between the input device and the connection part, and controls up to a number of groups of lighting fixtures corresponding to the number of connection parts in response to control signals from the input device received via wireless communication. The lighting fixture is equipped with a power measuring unit capable of measuring the power consumption of the aforementioned lighting fixture. The structured body records at least the power consumption information for the lighting fixture, The control unit is used to rewrite the structured body, The rewriting of the structured body includes rewriting the power consumption measured by the power measurement unit. It can connect to the cloud, A lighting control device that, via the aforementioned cloud, provides electricity usage information to a user's mobile device when requested by the user's mobile device.

2. The lighting control device according to claim 1, wherein a power supply is connected to the lighting fixture, the power supplied from the power supply to the lighting fixture is measured by the power measurement unit, and the power consumption information is provided to the portable information terminal.

3. The structured body records information about the grouping of the lighting fixtures. The lighting control device according to claim 2, wherein the grouping of the lighting fixtures can be changed using the control unit.

4. The lighting control device according to claim 3, wherein, in changing the grouping of the lighting fixtures, the structured body is rewritten whether a part of the connection part is assigned to another group or all of the connection part is assigned to another group.

5. A lighting control system comprising at least one input device, a lighting control device capable of communicating with it, and a user terminal device, The aforementioned lighting control device is Control unit and A storage unit capable of storing a structured database, A communication unit that enables wireless communication with at least one of the input devices, Multiple connection points that can be connected to cables supplying power to lighting fixtures, It has a function to control the power supplied to the lighting fixtures based on setting information created in the external terminal device that indicates the association between the input device and the connection part, and controls up to a number of groups of lighting fixtures corresponding to the number of connection parts in response to control signals from the input device received via wireless communication. The lighting fixture is equipped with a power measuring unit capable of measuring the power consumption of the aforementioned lighting fixture. The structured body records at least the power consumption information for the lighting fixture, The control unit is used to rewrite the structured body, The rewriting of the structured body includes rewriting the power consumption measured by the power measurement unit. It can connect to the cloud, A lighting control system that, via the aforementioned cloud, provides electricity usage information to a user's mobile device when requested from the mobile device.

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