Lighting control device and lighting device

Abstract

To provide a lighting control device and lighting device that can reduce power consumption. [Solution] The lighting control device according to the embodiment comprises an AI detection unit, a lighting control unit, and a detection control unit. The AI ​​detection unit detects a person using AI based on the sensing results from a sensing device. When a person is detected by the AI ​​detection unit, the lighting control unit turns on the lighting unit for a first period of time. The detection control unit stops the operation of the AI ​​detection unit for a second period of time that is shorter than the first period after the lighting unit has been turned on.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a lighting control device and a lighting apparatus.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a technique of detecting a person to turn on lighting is known. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technique of analyzing an image captured by a camera unit to detect a person.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, when a person is detected by analyzing an image captured by a camera unit using AI (Artificial Intelligence), there is a problem that power consumption increases. The same applies to the case where a person is detected by AI from a sensing result obtained by a sensing device other than the camera unit.

[0005] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a lighting control device and a lighting apparatus that can reduce power consumption.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] A lighting control device according to an embodiment includes an AI detection unit, a lighting control unit, and a detection control unit. The AI detection unit detects a person by AI from a sensing result obtained by a sensing device. The lighting control unit causes a lighting unit to be turned on for a first period when a person is detected by the AI detection unit. The detection control unit stops the operation of the AI detection unit for a second period that is shorter than the first period after the lighting unit is turned on. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, power consumption can be reduced. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows an example of processing performed by a lighting control device provided in a lighting device according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows another example of processing by the lighting control device included in the lighting device according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows yet another example of processing performed by the lighting control device included in the lighting device according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows an example of the configuration of a lighting device according to an embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing an example of processing by the processing unit of the lighting device according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing an example of AI detection post-processing by the processing unit of the lighting device according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing an example of non-AI detection post-processing by the processing unit of the lighting device according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows an example of a lighting system including a lighting control device according to an embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] The lighting control device 2 according to the embodiment described below comprises an AI detection unit 31, a lighting control unit 30, and a detection control unit 33. The AI ​​detection unit 31 detects a person using AI based on the sensing results from the sensing device 11. When a person is detected by the AI ​​detection unit 31, the lighting control unit 30 turns on the lighting unit 3 for a first period T1. The detection control unit 33 stops the operation of the AI ​​detection unit 31 for a second period T2 which is shorter than the first period T1, after the lighting unit 3 has been turned on.

[0010] Furthermore, the lighting control device 2 according to this embodiment further comprises a non-AI detection unit 32 that detects people without using AI. The lighting control unit 30 turns on the lighting unit 3 for a third period T3 when the non-AI detection unit 32 detects a person while the operation of the AI ​​detection unit 31 is stopped. The detection control unit 33 stops the operation of the non-AI detection unit 32 for a fourth period T4 which is shorter than the third period T3, after the lighting unit 3 is turned on based on the detection of a person by the non-AI detection unit 32.

[0011] Furthermore, if the non-AI detection unit 32, which was started to operate after the fourth period T4 has elapsed since the lighting unit 3 was turned on based on the detection of a person by the non-AI detection unit 32, does not detect a person, the detection control unit 33 stops the operation of the non-AI detection unit 32 and starts the operation of the AI ​​detection unit 31.

[0012] Furthermore, the third period T3 is the same length as the first period T1, and the fourth period T4 is the same length as the second period T2.

[0013] Furthermore, the detection control unit 33 stops the operation of the sensing device 11 during the second period T2.

[0014] Furthermore, the lighting control device 2 according to the embodiment further comprises a setting unit 35 that sets at least one of a plurality of periods, including a first period T1 and a second period T2, based on predetermined conditions.

[0015] Furthermore, the AI ​​detection unit 31 estimates the work attributes of the detected person based on the sensing results. The setting unit 35 sets at least one period based on the work attributes estimated by the AI ​​detection unit 31.

[0016] Furthermore, the AI ​​detection unit 31 determines the type of installation area for the lighting unit 3 based on the sensing results. The setting unit 35 sets at least one period based on the type of installation area determined by the AI ​​detection unit 31.

[0017] Furthermore, the lighting control device 2 according to the embodiment further includes a receiving unit 34 that receives input of information indicating the type of the installation area of the lighting unit 3. The setting unit 35 sets at least one period based on the information received by the receiving unit 34.

[0018] A lighting device 1 according to the embodiment includes the lighting control device 2 and a lighting unit 3.

[0019] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the respective embodiments described below do not limit the technology disclosed by the present invention. In addition, identical reference numerals are assigned to identical components throughout the respective embodiments, and redundant descriptions will be omitted.

[0020] (Embodiment) First, an overview of the lighting device according to the embodiment will be described using FIG. 1. FIG. 1 shows an example of processing by the lighting control device 2 included in the lighting device 1 according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the lighting device 1 includes the lighting control device 2, and the lighting unit 3 whose lighting and the like are controlled by the lighting control device 2.

[0021] The lighting control device 2 includes a sensing device 11, an AI detection unit 31, a lighting control unit 30, and a detection control unit 33. The AI detection unit 31 detects a person from the sensing result obtained by the sensing device 11 using AI.

[0022] The sensing device 11 is, for example, an image sensor, but is not limited to such an example. The lighting control unit 30 controls the lighting off and on of the lighting unit 3 and the like. The detection control unit 33 controls the start and stop of the operations of the sensing device 11 and the AI detection unit 31.

[0023] In the example shown in Figure 1, the operating state of the lighting unit 3 is represented as "ON" when the lighting unit 3 is lit, and as "OFF" when the lighting unit 3 is off. Also in the example shown in Figure 1, the operating state of the sensing device 11 and the AI ​​detection unit 31 is represented as "ON" when the sensing device 11 and the AI ​​detection unit 31 are operating, and as "OFF" when the sensing device 11 and the AI ​​detection unit 31 are stopped. The state in which the sensing device 11 and the AI ​​detection unit 31 are stopped includes, for example, a state in which no power is supplied to the sensing device 11 and the AI ​​detection unit 31 (e.g., shutdown state), or a state in which the sensing device 11 and the AI ​​detection unit 31 are in standby mode with low power (sleep state), but is not limited to these examples.

[0024] In the example shown in Figure 1, at time t0 when the lighting device 1 is activated, the operation of the sensing device 11 and the AI ​​detection unit 31 is started by the detection control unit 33. Subsequently, at time t1, a person is detected by the AI ​​detection unit 31 based on the sensing results from the sensing device 11.

[0025] When the lighting control unit 31 detects a person, the lighting control unit 30 turns on the lighting unit 3 for the duration of the first period T1. The detection control unit 33 also stops the operation of the sensing device 11 and the AI ​​detection unit 31 for a second period T2, which is shorter than the first period T1, after the lighting unit 3 has been turned on.

[0026] The detection control unit 33 starts the operation of the sensing device 11 and the AI ​​detection unit 31 at time t2, when the second period T2 has elapsed. In the example shown in Figure 1, since there is no person within the detection range of the AI ​​detection unit 31 at time t2, the lighting control unit 30 turns off the lighting unit 3 at time t3, when the first period T1 has elapsed.

[0027] Subsequently, at time t4, since the AI ​​detection unit 31 detects a person, the lighting control unit 30 turns on the lighting unit 3 for the duration of the first period T1. The detection control unit 33 also stops the operation of the sensing device 11 and the AI ​​detection unit 31 for a second period T2, which is shorter than the first period T1, after the lighting unit 3 has been turned on.

[0028] The AI ​​detection unit 31 starts operating at time t5, after the second period T2 has elapsed. In the example shown in Figure 1, at time t5, a person is present within the detection range of the AI ​​detection unit 31, and the AI ​​detection unit 31 detects the person. Therefore, the lighting control unit 30 continues to light the lighting unit 3 from time t6 until the first period T1.

[0029] As described above, the lighting control device 2 according to this embodiment operates the sensing device 11 and the AI ​​detection unit 31 intermittently based on the results of human detection by the AI ​​detection unit 31, thereby reducing power consumption compared to the case where the sensing device 11 and the AI ​​detection unit 31 are operated continuously.

[0030] The lighting control device 2 according to this embodiment may further include a non-AI detection unit that detects people without using AI, in addition to the sensing device 11 and the AI ​​detection unit 31. Figure 2 shows another example of processing by the lighting control device 2 included in the lighting device 1 according to this embodiment.

[0031] The lighting control device 2 further comprises a sensing device 12 and a non-AI detection unit 32. The sensing device 12 is, for example, an infrared sensor, but is not limited to such an example. The power consumption due to the operation of the non-AI detection unit 32 and the sensing device 12 is less than the power consumption due to the operation of the sensing device 11 and the AI ​​detection unit 31. The power consumption due to the operation of the non-AI detection unit 32 is less than the power consumption due to the operation of the AI ​​detection unit 31. Also, the power consumption due to the operation of the sensing device 12 is less than the power consumption due to the operation of the sensing device 11, but is not limited to such an example.

[0032] In the example shown in Figure 2, similar to the example shown in Figure 1, the operating state of the lighting unit 3 is represented as "ON" and "OFF," and the operating states of the sensing device 11 and the AI ​​detection unit 31 are represented as "ON" and "OFF." Furthermore, in the example shown in Figure 2, regarding the operation of the sensing device 12 and the non-AI detection unit 32, the state in which the sensing device 12 and the non-AI detection unit 32 are operating is represented as "ON," and the state in which the sensing device 12 and the non-AI detection unit 32 are stopped is represented as "OFF." The state in which the sensing device 12 and the non-AI detection unit 32 are stopped includes, for example, a state in which power is not supplied to the sensing device 12 and the non-AI detection unit 32 (e.g., shutdown state), or a state in which the sensing device 12 and the non-AI detection unit 32 are in standby mode with low power (sleep state), but is not limited to such examples.

[0033] In the example shown in Figure 2, at time t0 when the lighting device 1 is activated, the sensing device 12 and the non-AI detection unit 32 are started by the detection control unit 33, but the sensing device 11 and the AI ​​detection unit 31 are not started.

[0034] Subsequently, at time t1, a person is detected by the non-AI detection unit 32 based on the sensing results from the sensing device 12. When a person is detected by the non-AI detection unit 32, the lighting control unit 30 turns on the lighting unit 3 for the duration of the third period T3. The detection control unit 33 also stops the operation of the sensing device 12 and the non-AI detection unit 32 for a fourth period T4, which is shorter than the third period T3, after the lighting unit 3 has been turned on.

[0035] The detection control unit 33 starts the operation of the sensing device 12 and the non-AI detection unit 32 at time t2, after the fourth period T4 has elapsed. In the example shown in Figure 2, since there is no person within the detection range of the non-AI detection unit 32 at time t2, the lighting control unit 30 turns off the lighting unit 3 at time t3, after the third period T3 has elapsed.

[0036] If the non-AI detection unit 32 is unable to detect a person during the fifth period T5 after the sensing device 12 and the non-AI detection unit 32 have started operating, the detection control unit 33 stops the operation of the sensing device 12 and the non-AI detection unit 32 and starts the operation of the sensing device 11 and the AI ​​detection unit 31 at time t4 after the fifth period T5.

[0037] Here, the non-AI detection unit 32 can detect moving people, but it has difficulty accurately detecting stationary people, while the AI ​​detection unit 31 can accurately detect not only moving people but also stationary people. In this case, even if a stationary person is present within the detection range of both the non-AI detection unit 32 and the AI ​​detection unit 31, and the non-AI detection unit 32 cannot detect the person, the AI ​​detection unit 31 can accurately detect the stationary person.

[0038] Subsequently, at time t5, since the AI ​​detection unit 31 detects a person, the lighting control unit 30 turns on the lighting unit 3 for the duration of the first period T1. The detection control unit 33 also stops the operation of the sensing device 11 and the AI ​​detection unit 31 for a second period T2, which is shorter than the first period T1, from the time the lighting unit 3 is turned on.

[0039] The detection control unit 33 starts the operation of the sensing device 11 and the AI ​​detection unit 31 at time t6, after the second period T2 has elapsed. In the example shown in Figure 2, at time t7, a person is present within the detection range of the AI ​​detection unit 31, so the lighting control unit 30 continues to illuminate the lighting unit 3 from time t7 to the first period T1. The detection control unit 33 also stops the operation of the sensing device 11 and the AI ​​detection unit 31 from time t7 to the second period T2.

[0040] Furthermore, if the AI ​​detection unit 31 does not detect a person, the detection control unit 33 stops the operation of the AI ​​detection unit 31 and starts the operation of the non-AI detection unit 32. In the example shown in Figure 2, the non-AI detection unit 32 is mainly used in the initial state or when the AI ​​detection unit 31 does not detect a person, while the AI ​​detection unit 31 is mainly used when starting person detection.

[0041] In the example shown in Figure 2, the sensing device 12 and the non-AI detection unit 32 are started to operate at time t2 after the fourth period T4 has elapsed, but the example is not limited to this. Figure 3 shows yet another example of processing by the lighting control device 2 included in the lighting device 1 according to the embodiment.

[0042] In the example shown in Figure 3, similar to the example shown in Figure 2, the operating states of the lighting unit 3, the sensing device 11 and the AI ​​detection unit 31, and the sensing device 12 and the non-AI detection unit 32 are represented as "ON" and "OFF". Also, in the example shown in Figure 3, the processing at times t0 and t1 is the same as in the example shown in Figure 2, so the following explanation will focus on the processing from time t2 onwards.

[0043] As shown in Figure 3, the detection control unit 33 starts the operation of the sensing device 11 and the AI ​​detection unit 31 at time t2, after the fourth period T4 has elapsed. In the example shown in Figure 3, since there is no person within the detection range of the AI ​​detection unit 31 at time t2, the lighting control unit 30 turns off the lighting unit 3 at time t3, after the third period T3 has elapsed.

[0044] Furthermore, if the AI ​​detection unit 31 is unable to detect a person during the fifth period T5 after the sensing device 11 and the AI ​​detection unit 31 have started operating, the detection control unit 33 stops the operation of the sensing device 11 and the AI ​​detection unit 31 at time t4 after the fifth period T5, and starts the operation of the sensing device 12 and the non-AI detection unit 32.

[0045] Subsequently, at time t5, a person is detected by the non-AI detection unit 32, so the lighting control unit 30 turns on the lighting unit 3 for the duration of the third period T3. The detection control unit 33 also stops the operation of the sensing device 12 and the non-AI detection unit 32 for a fourth period T4, which is shorter than the third period T3, from the time the lighting unit 3 is turned on.

[0046] The detection control unit 33 starts the operation of the sensing device 11 and the AI ​​detection unit 31 at time t6, after the fourth period T4 has elapsed. In the example shown in Figure 3, at time t7, a person is present within the detection range of the AI ​​detection unit 31, so the lighting control unit 30 keeps the lighting unit 3 on from time t7 until the first period T1. The detection control unit 33 also stops the operation of the sensing device 11 and the AI ​​detection unit 31 from time t7 until the second period T2.

[0047] In the example shown in Figure 3, the non-AI detection unit 32 is mainly used to transition the lighting unit 3 from an off state to an on state, while the AI ​​detection unit 31 is mainly used to transition the lighting unit 3 from an on state to an off state or to maintain the on state of the lighting unit 3.

[0048] As described above, the lighting control device 2 shown in Figures 2 and 3 operates the sensing device 11 and the AI ​​detection unit 31 intermittently based on the results of human detection by the AI ​​detection unit 31. Therefore, power consumption can be reduced compared to when the sensing device 11 and the AI ​​detection unit 31 are operated continuously.

[0049] Furthermore, the lighting control device 2 shown in Figures 2 and 3 uses a non-AI detection unit 32, which consumes less power than the AI ​​detection unit 31, in combination with the AI ​​detection unit 31, thereby reducing power consumption compared to the processing shown in Figure 1.

[0050] The configuration and operation of the lighting device 1 described above will be explained in more detail below. Figure 4 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the lighting device 1 according to the embodiment. As shown in Figure 4, the lighting device 1 comprises a lighting control device 2 and a lighting unit 3.

[0051] The lighting unit 3 is equipped with a light source, such as an LED (Light Emitting Diode), and illuminates the surrounding environment where it is installed. For example, the lighting unit 3 is controlled by the lighting control device 2 to turn on, turn off, and adjust the brightness, illuminating the area within the illumination range. When the lighting device 1 is installed on the ceiling, the lighting unit 3 illuminates the area below.

[0052] The lighting control device 2 comprises a communication unit 10, sensing devices 11 and 12, a storage unit 13, and a processing unit 14. The communication unit 10 is connected to a lighting control panel (not shown) or the like via wired or wireless means to enable communication.

[0053] The sensing device 11 includes, for example, an image sensor. The image sensor is an image sensor whose imaging area is the region illuminated by the illumination unit 3, and is, for example, a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) image sensor. Such an image sensor may be an image sensor whose imaging area is outside the region illuminated by the illumination unit 3. The image sensor may also include, for example, an infrared image sensor. Furthermore, the sensing device 11 may include, for example, a millimeter-wave radar, an ultrasonic sensor, etc., in place of or in addition to the image sensor.

[0054] The sensing device 12 includes, for example, an infrared sensor. The infrared sensor is, for example, a pyroelectric infrared sensor, but is not limited to such examples. The sensing device 12 may also include an ultrasonic sensor in place of or in addition to the infrared sensor.

[0055] The storage unit 13 can be implemented by a semiconductor memory element such as RAM (Random Access Memory) or flash memory, or by a storage device such as a hard disk or optical disc. The storage unit 13 stores setting information. The setting information includes information for the first period T1, the second period T2, the third period T3, the fourth period T4, and the fifth period T5.

[0056] Furthermore, the configuration information includes information about the operating mode. The processing unit 14 operates in the operating mode indicated by the configuration information. The operating mode indicated by the configuration information is an operating mode selected from the first mode and the second mode. The first mode is the operating mode shown in Figure 2, and the second operating mode is the operating mode shown in Figure 3.

[0057] The processing unit 14 can be implemented by, for example, a microcomputer. The microcomputer is equipped with a processor such as a CPU or MPU (Micro Processing Unit), and memory devices such as ROM (Read Only Memory) and RAM. The AI ​​detection unit 31 and the non-AI detection unit 32 are each included in the processing unit 14 as separate devices, for example, but may also be part of the functions of the microcomputer.

[0058] ROM stores programs, and the CPU and other processors execute these programs to implement various controls and functions. RAM is used as a memory area necessary for the CPU and other processors to perform calculations and other operations.

[0059] Furthermore, part or all of the processing unit 14 may be implemented by an integrated circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or SoC (System-on-a-chip).

[0060] Furthermore, the processing unit 14 can read programs or data stored on a recording medium (not shown) via the communication unit 10, and provides the read data or programs to the processor via memory.

[0061] The processor loads such a program from the recording medium into memory and executes the loaded program. The recording medium is, but is not limited to, optical recording media such as DVDs (Digital Versatile Discs) and PDs (Phase Change Rewritable Discs), or semiconductor memory.

[0062] The processing unit 14 includes a lighting control unit 30, an AI detection unit 31, a non-AI detection unit 32, a detection control unit 33, a reception unit 34, and a setting unit 35.

[0063] The lighting control unit 30 controls the on / off switching of the lighting unit 3, dimming the lighting unit 3, and so on. For example, the lighting control unit 30 controls the on / off switching and dimming of the lighting unit 3 based on control information transmitted from a lighting control panel (not shown).

[0064] Furthermore, the lighting control unit 30 controls the turning on and off of the lighting unit 3 based on the human detection results from the AI ​​detection unit 31, and also controls the turning on and off of the lighting unit 3 based on the human detection results from the non-AI detection unit 32.

[0065] For example, the lighting control unit 30 turns on the lighting unit 3 for the duration of the first period T1 when a person is detected by the AI ​​detection unit 31. Also, the lighting control unit 30 turns on the lighting unit 3 for the duration of the third period T3 when a person is detected by the non-AI detection unit 32 while the AI ​​detection unit 31 is not operating.

[0066] The detection unit, which is started by the detection control unit 33 after a certain period of time has elapsed since the lighting unit 3 was turned on, is the non-AI detection unit 32 when the operating mode indicated by the setting information is the first mode, and is the AI ​​detection unit 31 when the operating mode is the second mode.

[0067] When the operating mode is the first mode, the lighting control unit 30, after the lighting unit 3 is turned on based on the detection of a person by the non-AI detection unit 32 and after the fourth period T4 has elapsed, if the non-AI detection unit 32 detects a person, keeps the lighting unit 3 lit for the duration of the third period T3, and if the non-AI detection unit 32 does not detect a person, turns off the lighting unit 3.

[0068] Furthermore, when the operating mode is the first mode, the lighting control unit 30, after the second period T2 has elapsed since the lighting unit 3 was turned on based on the detection of a person by the AI ​​detection unit 31, will keep the lighting unit 3 lit for the duration of the first period T1 if the AI ​​detection unit 31 detects a person, and will turn off the lighting unit 3 if the AI ​​detection unit 31 does not detect a person.

[0069] When the operating mode is the second mode, the lighting control unit 30, after the lighting unit 3 is turned on based on the detection of a person by the non-AI detection unit 32 and after the fourth period T4 has elapsed, if the AI ​​detection unit 31 detects a person, will keep the lighting unit 3 lit for the duration of the first period T1, and if the AI ​​detection unit 31 does not detect a person, will turn off the lighting unit 3.

[0070] Furthermore, the lighting control unit 30 can operate the lighting unit 3 at a dimming rate corresponding to the work attributes estimated by the AI ​​detection unit 31. Additionally, the lighting control unit 30 can operate the lighting unit 3 at a dimming rate corresponding to the type of installation area for the lighting unit 3 determined by the AI ​​detection unit 31.

[0071] The AI ​​detection unit 31 uses AI to detect the presence and movement of people, respectively, based on the sensing results, which are information output from the sensing device 11. For example, if the sensing device 11 is an image sensor, the AI ​​detection unit 31 performs detection processing for the presence and absence of people within the detection range based on the image data output from the sensing device 11 (an example of sensing results).

[0072] The presence or absence of a person within the detection range is detected, for example, by detecting feature points of a person's face or body. The AI ​​detection unit 31 detects the presence or absence of a person within the detection range using, for example, a deep learning model such as a convolutional neural network, but is not limited to such examples.

[0073] Furthermore, the AI ​​detection unit 31 detects people using deep learning models, predicts the person's position, speed, and direction of movement using a Kalman filter, and tracks the person's movement between frames, but is not limited to this example.

[0074] Furthermore, the AI ​​detection unit 31 can estimate the work attributes of the detected person. Work attributes include, for example, PC work using a PC, paper work using paper, etc., but are not limited to such examples. The AI ​​detection unit 31 can estimate the work attributes of a person within the detection range that has been detected using VQA (Visual Question Answering) technology or various known skeletal detection technologies. The AI ​​detection unit 31 estimates a person's work attributes from, for example, hand movements or posture movements, but is not limited to such examples.

[0075] If the sensing device 11 is a millimeter-wave radar, the AI ​​detection unit 31 performs detection processing to determine the presence or absence of a person within the detection range based on the millimeter-wave reflected wave signal output from the sensing device 12 (an example of a sensing result).

[0076] The presence or absence of a person within the detection range is detected, for example, by filtering millimeter-wave signals to remove noise and then identifying changes in movement, respiration, heart rate, etc., from those signals. The AI ​​detection unit 31 can, for example, detect stationary people by detecting respiration and heart rate, or detect moving people by detecting hand and foot movements. The AI ​​detection unit 31 can also estimate the type of action (for example, standing, sitting, etc.).

[0077] Furthermore, the AI ​​detection unit 31 can also determine the type of installation area for the lighting unit 3 based on the sensing results of the sensing device 11. The type of installation area may be, for example, a first area where people often pass through (e.g., the entrance or corridor of a floor) or a second area where people often stay (e.g., an area with desks or tables), but is not limited to such examples. For example, the AI ​​detection unit 31 may determine the type of installation area for the lighting unit 3 based on the proportion of people passing through and the proportion of people staying, but is not limited to such examples.

[0078] The non-AI detection unit 32 detects the presence or movement of a person as a detection target based on the information output from the sensing device 12. For example, if the sensing device 12 is an infrared sensor, the non-AI detection unit 32 detects the presence or absence of human movement within the detection range based on the electrical signal output from the sensing device 12. The non-AI detection unit 32 may also have a configuration in which the sensing device 12 is built-in.

[0079] The detection control unit 33 controls the AI ​​detection unit 31 and the non-AI detection unit 32. For example, the detection control unit 33 operates or stops the AI ​​detection unit 31 and the non-AI detection unit 32, respectively. For example, the detection control unit 33 stops the operation of the AI ​​detection unit 31 by cutting off power to the AI ​​detection unit 31 or by putting the AI ​​detection unit 31 into a standby state with low power, but is not limited to such examples. The detection control unit 33 can put the AI ​​detection unit 31 into a standby state with low power by stopping the processing of the non-AI detection unit 32.

[0080] Similarly, the detection control unit 33 stops the operation of the non-AI detection unit 32 by either cutting off power to the non-AI detection unit 32 or putting the non-AI detection unit 32 into a standby state with low power, but is not limited to such examples. The detection control unit 33 can put the non-AI detection unit 32 into a standby state with low power by stopping the processing of the non-AI detection unit 32.

[0081] The detection control unit 33 stops the operation of the sensing device 11 and the AI ​​detection unit 31 for a second period T2 which is shorter than the first period T1, after the illumination unit 3 is turned on. After the second period T2 has elapsed since the illumination unit 3 was turned on, the detection control unit 33 starts the operation of the sensing device 11 and the AI ​​detection unit 31.

[0082] Furthermore, the detection control unit 33 stops the operation of the sensing device 12 and the non-AI detection unit 32 for a fourth period T4 which is shorter than the third period T3, after the lighting unit 3 turns on based on the detection of a person by the non-AI detection unit 32. If the operation mode indicated by the setting information is the first mode, the detection control unit 33 starts the operation of the sensing device 12 and the non-AI detection unit 32 or the operation of the sensing device 11 and the AI ​​detection unit 31 after the second period T2 or the fourth period T4 has elapsed since the lighting unit 3 turned on.

[0083] First, let's explain the processing in the first mode. When the operating mode is the first mode, the detection control unit 33 starts the operation of the sensing device 12 and the non-AI detection unit 32 after the lighting unit 3 has turned on based on the detection of a person by the non-AI detection unit 32, and after the fourth period T4 has elapsed.

[0084] If the non-AI detection unit 32, which was started to operate after the lighting unit 3 was turned on by the lighting control unit 30 based on the detection of a person by the non-AI detection unit 32, does not detect a person for a certain period of time (for example, the fifth period T5), the detection control unit 33 stops the operation of the sensing device 12 and the non-AI detection unit 32, and starts the operation of the sensing device 11 and the AI ​​detection unit 31.

[0085] Furthermore, if the AI ​​detection unit 31, which was started to operate after the second period T2 has elapsed since the lighting unit 3 was turned on by the lighting control unit 30 based on the detection of a person by the AI ​​detection unit 31, does not continuously detect a person for a certain period of time (for example, during the fifth period T5), the detection control unit 33 can also stop the operation of the sensing device 11 and the AI ​​detection unit 31, and start the operation of the sensing device 12 and the non-AI detection unit 32.

[0086] Next, the processing in the second mode will be described. When the operating mode indicated by the setting information is the second mode, the detection control unit 33 starts the operation of the sensing device 11 and the AI ​​detection unit 31 after the illumination unit 3 has turned on and the second period T2 or the fourth period T4 has elapsed.

[0087] If the AI ​​detection unit 31, which was started after the lighting unit 3 was turned on by the lighting control unit 30 based on the detection of a person by the non-AI detection unit 32 and after the fourth period T4 has elapsed, does not detect a person for a certain period of time (for example, the fifth period T5), the detection control unit 33 stops the operation of the sensing device 11 and the AI ​​detection unit 31, and starts the operation of the sensing device 12 and the non-AI detection unit 32.

[0088] Thus, the detection control unit 33 stops the operation of the sensing device 12 and the non-AI detection unit 32 for a fourth period T4 after the lighting unit 3 turns on based on the detection of a person by the non-AI detection unit 32, and starts the operation of the sensing device 11 and the AI ​​detection unit 31 after the fourth period T4 has elapsed.

[0089] Furthermore, if the AI ​​detection unit 31, which was started after the fourth period T4 has elapsed since the lighting unit 3 was turned on by the lighting control unit 30 based on the detection of a person by the non-AI detection unit 32, detects a person, the detection control unit 33 stops the operation of the sensing device 11 and the AI ​​detection unit 31 for a second period T2 which is shorter than the first period T1 since the lighting unit 3 was turned on. The detection control unit 33 starts the operation of the sensing device 11 and the AI ​​detection unit 31 after the second period T2 has elapsed since the lighting unit 3 was turned on.

[0090] The third period T3 is the same period as the first period T1, and the fourth period T4 is the same period as the second period T2, but the examples are not limited to this. The first period T1, the second period T2, the third period T3, and the fourth period T4 may be different periods from each other, or they may be partially the same period.

[0091] Furthermore, the detection control unit 33 can also start and stop the operation of the AI ​​detection unit 31 while the operation of the sensing device 11 continues, instead of starting and stopping the operation of the sensing device 11 and the AI ​​detection unit 31 separately. The operation of the sensing device 11 is stopped by cutting off the power supply to the sensing device 11, and the operation of the sensing device 12 is stopped by cutting off the power supply to the sensing device 12, but the system is not limited to this example.

[0092] Similarly, the detection control unit 33 can, instead of starting and stopping the operation of the sensing device 12 and the non-AI detection unit 32, start and stop the operation of the non-AI detection unit 32 while the operation of the sensing device 12 continues.

[0093] Furthermore, the reception unit 34 accepts various settings. The reception unit 34 accepts various settings via an input unit or communication unit 10 (not shown). For example, the reception unit 34 accepts settings for some or all of the first period T1, second period T2, third period T3, fourth period T4, and fifth period T5 via an input unit or communication unit 10 (not shown). Also, the reception unit 34 accepts, for example, via an input unit or communication unit 10 (not shown), the detection control unit 33 accepts input of information indicating the type of installation area for the lighting unit 3. The reception unit 34 can also accept settings for the operating mode.

[0094] The setting unit 35 sets multiple periods, including the first period T1, the second period T2, the third period T3, the fourth period T4, and the fifth period T5, by storing information indicating multiple periods, including the first period T1, the second period T2, the third period T3, the fourth period T4, and the fifth period T5, in the storage unit 13. The detection control unit 33 controls the operating state (such as operating state or stopped state) of the sensing devices 11, 12, the AI ​​detection unit 31, and the non-AI detection unit 32 based on the setting result by the setting unit 35.

[0095] The setting unit 35 sets at least one of a plurality of periods, including the first period T1, the second period T2, the third period T3, the fourth period T4, and the fifth period T5, based on predetermined conditions. For example, the setting unit 35 sets the period received by the receiving unit 34, based on the predetermined condition that the receiving unit 34 has received the settings for some or all of the first period T1, the second period T2, the third period T3, the fourth period T4, and the fifth period T5 via an input unit or communication unit 10 (not shown).

[0096] Furthermore, the setting unit 35 sets at least one period based on the work attributes estimated by the AI ​​detection unit 31, with the condition that the work attributes have been estimated by the AI ​​detection unit 31 being predetermined.

[0097] For example, the setting unit 35 shortens the first period T1, second period T2, third period T3, and fourth period T4 when using a PC compared to when using paper. As a result, the lighting control device 2 can reduce power consumption due to the lighting unit 3 when using a PC, and reduce power consumption due to the operation of the AI ​​detection unit 31 when using paper.

[0098] Furthermore, the setting unit 35 sets at least one period based on the type of installation area determined by the AI ​​detection unit 31, provided that the type of installation area of ​​the lighting unit 3 has been determined by the AI ​​detection unit 31.

[0099] Furthermore, the setting unit 35 sets at least one period based on the type of installation area received by the receiving unit 34, assuming that the setting of the type of installation area has been received by the receiving unit 34 via an input unit or communication unit 10 (not shown), as a predetermined condition.

[0100] For example, the setting unit 35 sets the first period T1, second period T2, third period T3, and fourth period T4 to be shorter in the first area where people mostly pass through compared to the second area where people mostly stay.

[0101] As a result, the lighting control device 2 can reduce power consumption due to the lighting unit 3 when it is set up in the first area, and can reduce power consumption due to the operation of the AI ​​detection unit 31 when it is set up in the second area.

[0102] Furthermore, the setting unit 35 can set the first period T1, the second period T2, the third period T3, and the fourth period T4 based on the combination of work attributes and installation area type estimated by the AI ​​detection unit 31.

[0103] Furthermore, the setting unit 35 can also set a first period T1, a second period T2, a third period T3, and a fourth period T4 for each dimming level or within a dimming level range. In this case, the lighting control unit 30 turns on the lighting unit 3 during the first period T1 and the third period T3 according to the dimming level. The detection control unit 33 operates the sensing device 11 and the AI ​​detection unit 31 during the second period T2 according to the dimming level, and operates the sensing device 12 and the non-AI detection unit 32 during the fourth period T4 according to the dimming level. The dimming level is adjusted, for example, by control by a lighting control panel (not shown), but is not limited to this example.

[0104] Furthermore, the setting unit 35 sets the operating mode information received by the reception unit 34 in the storage unit 13. The setting unit 35 can set the operating mode information corresponding to the work attributes described above in the storage unit 13, or the operating mode information corresponding to the type of installation area described above in the storage unit 13. In addition, the setting unit 35 can set the operating mode information corresponding to the combination of work attributes and the type of installation area in the storage unit 13.

[0105] Furthermore, the AI ​​detection unit 31 can also estimate the emotions of people within its detection range based on the sensing results from the sensing device 11. In this case, the setting unit 35 can also set at least one of the first period T1, second period T2, third period T3, fourth period T4, and fifth period T5, corresponding to the emotions estimated by the AI ​​detection unit 31. Note that a person's emotions can be estimated from, for example, facial expressions or movements, but are not limited to such examples.

[0106] Furthermore, the AI ​​detection unit 31 can also estimate attributes (e.g., gender, age, etc.) of people within the detection range based on the sensing results from the sensing device 11. In this case, the setting unit 35 can also set at least one of the first period T1, second period T2, third period T3, fourth period T4, and fifth period T5 according to the attributes estimated by the AI ​​detection unit 31.

[0107] Next, the processing performed by the processing unit 14 of the lighting device 1 according to the embodiment will be explained with reference to Figure 5. Figure 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing performed by the processing unit 14 of the lighting device 1 according to the embodiment. As shown in Figure 5, the processing unit 14 of the lighting device 1 determines whether or not there is human detection by the AI ​​detection unit 31 (step S10). Human detection means that a person has been detected.

[0108] If the processing unit 14 determines that the AI ​​detection unit 31 has detected a person (step S10: Yes), it performs post-AI detection processing (step S11). Post-AI detection processing consists of steps S20 and S21 shown in Figure 6, which will be described in detail later.

[0109] If the processing in step S11 is completed, or if the AI ​​detection unit 31 determines that no person has been detected (step S10: No), the processing unit 14 determines whether or not a person has been detected by the non-AI detection unit 32 (step S12).

[0110] If the processing unit 14 determines that the non-AI detection unit 32 has detected a person (step S12: Yes), it performs non-AI detection post-processing (step S13). Non-AI detection post-processing is the process shown in steps S30 and S31 in Figure 7, which will be described in detail later.

[0111] When the processing in step S13 is completed, or when the non-AI detection unit 32 determines that there is no human detection (step S12: No), the processing unit 14 determines whether it is time to switch the target detection unit (step S14).

[0112] The motion detection unit consists of an AI detection unit 31 and a non-AI detection unit 32. The timing for switching between the motion detection units is, for example, when the non-AI detection unit 32 has not detected a person for a certain period of time, or when the AI ​​detection unit 31 has not detected a person for a certain period of time.

[0113] If the processing unit 14 determines that it is time to switch the target detection unit (step S14: Yes), it performs the switching process for the target detection unit (step S15). For example, if the non-AI detection unit 32 does not detect a person for a certain period of time, the processing unit 14 switches the target detection unit from the non-AI detection unit 32 to the AI ​​detection unit 31. Also, if the AI ​​detection unit 31 does not detect a person for a certain period of time, the processing unit 14 switches the target detection unit from the AI ​​detection unit 31 to the non-AI detection unit 32.

[0114] If the processing in step S15 is completed, or if the processing unit determines that it is not time for the operation target detection unit to switch (step S14: No), the processing unit 14 determines whether or not it is time for the period setting timing (step S16). The period setting timing is the timing that satisfies the predetermined conditions described above.

[0115] If the processing unit 14 determines that it is time to set the period (step S16: Yes), it performs the period setting process (step S17). For example, the processing unit 14 sets at least one period from among a plurality of periods, including the first period T1, the second period T2, the third period T3, the fourth period T4, and the fifth period T5.

[0116] If the processing in step S17 is completed, or if it is determined that the time setting timing has not yet been reached (step S16: No), the processing unit 14 determines whether or not the operation termination timing has been reached (step S18). For example, the processing unit 14 determines that the operation termination timing has been reached when the power to the lighting device 1 is turned off.

[0117] If the processing unit 14 determines that it is not yet time to terminate the operation (step S18: No), it proceeds to step S10. If it determines that it is time to terminate the operation (step S18: Yes), it terminates the process shown in Figure 5.

[0118] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing an example of AI detection post-processing by the processing unit 14 of the lighting device 1 according to the embodiment. As shown in Figure 6, the processing unit 14 turns on the lighting unit 3 during the first period T1 (step S20). The processing unit 14 also stops the operation of the sensing device 11 and the AI ​​detection unit 31 during the second period T2 after the lighting unit 3 has been turned on (step S21). When the processing in steps S20 and S21 is completed, the processing unit 14 terminates the process shown in Figure 6.

[0119] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing an example of non-AI detection post-processing by the processing unit 14 of the lighting device 1 according to the embodiment. As shown in Figure 7, the processing unit 14 turns on the lighting unit 3 during the third period T3 (step S30). The processing unit 14 also stops the operation of the sensing device 12 and the non-AI detection unit 32 during the fourth period T4 after the lighting unit 3 has been turned on (step S31). When the processing in steps S30 and S31 is completed, the processing unit 14 terminates the process shown in Figure 7.

[0120] In the example described above, the lighting control device 2 is provided on the lighting device 1, but the lighting control device 2 may be configured not to be included in the lighting device 1. Figure 8 is a diagram showing an example of a lighting system including the lighting control device 2 according to the embodiment.

[0121] The lighting system 100 shown in Figure 8 comprises a plurality of lighting devices 1 and a lighting control panel 5 that controls the plurality of lighting devices 1. Each of the plurality of lighting devices 1 is provided with a lighting unit 3. The lighting control panel 5 is also provided with a lighting control device 2.

[0122] The sensing devices 11 and 12 (see Figure 4) in the lighting control device 2 have a sensing area that includes multiple lighting devices 1. The lighting control unit 30 (see Figure 4) of the lighting control device 2 controls the turning on and off of the lighting units 3 provided in each lighting device 1 based on the human detection results of the AI ​​detection unit 31 and the non-AI detection unit 32.

[0123] Furthermore, the lighting control device 2 shown in Figure 8 may be equipped with multiple sensing devices 11 and 12. Also, in the example described above, the sensing devices 11 and 12 are included in the lighting control device 2, but the sensing devices 11 and 12 may be provided separately from the lighting control device 2.

[0124] While embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be carried out in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0125] 1. Lighting device 2. Lighting control device 3. Lighting section 5. Lighting control panel 10 Communications Department 11,12 Sensing devices 13 Storage section 14 Processing Unit 30 Lighting Control Unit 31 AI detection unit 32 Non-AI detection unit 33 Detection Control Unit 34 Reception Department 35 Settings Section 100 Lighting Systems

Claims

1. An AI detection unit that uses AI to detect people based on sensing results from a sensing device; A lighting control unit that, when a person is detected by the AI ​​detection unit, turns on the lighting unit for a first period of time; A detection control unit that stops the operation of the AI ​​detection unit for a second period shorter than the first period after the illumination unit is turned on; A lighting control device equipped with the following:

2. A non-AI detection unit that detects people without using AI; Furthermore, it is equipped with, The aforementioned lighting control unit, If the non-AI detection unit detects a person while the AI ​​detection unit is stopped, the lighting unit will be turned on for the duration of the third period. The detection control unit, From the time the lighting unit turns on based on the detection of a person by the non-AI detection unit, the operation of the non-AI detection unit is stopped for a fourth period that is shorter than the third period. The lighting control device according to claim 1.

3. A non-AI detection unit that detects people without using AI; Furthermore, it is equipped with, The aforementioned lighting control unit, If the non-AI detection unit detects a person while the AI ​​detection unit is stopped, the lighting unit will be turned on for the duration of the third period. The detection control unit, From the moment the lighting unit turns on based on the detection of a person by the non-AI detection unit, the operation of the non-AI detection unit is stopped for a fourth period that is shorter than the third period, and after the fourth period has elapsed, the operation of the AI ​​detection unit is started. The lighting control device according to claim 1.

4. The aforementioned lighting control unit, If, after the fourth period has elapsed since the lighting unit was turned on based on the detection of a person by the non-AI detection unit, the AI ​​detection unit detects a person, the lighting unit will remain lit for the duration of the first period; if the AI ​​detection unit does not detect a person, the lighting unit will be turned off. The detection control unit, If the AI ​​detection unit does not detect a person after the fourth period has elapsed since the lighting unit was turned on based on the detection of a person by the non-AI detection unit, the operation of the AI ​​detection unit is stopped and the operation of the non-AI detection unit is started. The lighting control device according to claim 3.

5. The detection control unit, If the non-AI detection unit does not detect a person after the fourth period has elapsed since the lighting unit turned on based on the detection of a person by the non-AI detection unit, the operation of the non-AI detection unit is stopped and the operation of the AI ​​detection unit is started. The lighting control device according to claim 2.

6. The third period is the same as the first period. The fourth period is the same as the second period. A lighting control device according to any one of claims 2 to 5.

7. The detection control unit, During the second period, the operation of the sensing device is stopped. A lighting control device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

8. A setting unit that sets at least one of a plurality of periods, including the first period and the second period, based on predetermined conditions; It further comprises A lighting control device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

9. The AI ​​detection unit is, Based on the aforementioned sensing results, the work attributes of the detected person are estimated. The setting unit is, Based on the work attributes estimated by the AI ​​detection unit, set the at least one period. The lighting control device according to claim 8.

10. The AI ​​detection unit is, Based on the sensing results, the type of installation area for the lighting unit is determined. The setting unit is, Based on the type of installation area determined by the AI ​​detection unit, the at least one period is set. The lighting control device according to claim 8.

11. A reception unit that accepts input of information indicating the type of installation area for the aforementioned lighting unit; Furthermore, The setting unit is, Based on the information received by the reception unit, set the at least one period. The lighting control device according to claim 8.

12. A lighting control device according to any one of claims 1 to 5; The aforementioned lighting unit and; A lighting device equipped with the following features.

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