Lighting device control device

Abstract

Provided is a control device for an illumination device for which fine adjustment of diffusivity is easy. This control device for an illumination device comprises: a touch sensor having a detection region to which a plurality of detection elements are provided; and a display panel to which is provided a display region overlapping the touch sensor detection region in plan view, and in which an adjustment screen image for the diffusivity of the illumination device is displayed in the display region. The adjustment screen image is provided with an adjustment region for adjusting the diffusivity of the illumination device. If the difference between the target value of the diffusivity defined by the touch detection position within the adjustment region and the present value of the diffusivity of the illumination device is equal to or greater than a first adjustment interval (step S211: Yes), then the diffusivity of the illumination device is adjusted by the first adjustment interval. If the difference between the target value of the diffusivity and the present value of the diffusivity of the illumination device is less than the first adjustment interval (step S211: No), then the diffusivity of the illumination device is adjusted by a second adjustment interval that is narrower than the first adjustment interval.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a control device for a lighting device. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, there are lighting fixtures that combine a light source such as an LED with a thin lens engraved with a prism pattern, and change the light distribution angle by changing the distance between the light source and the thin lens. For example, a lighting fixture has been disclosed in which the front of a transparent light bulb is covered with a liquid crystal dimming element, and the transmittance of the liquid crystal layer is changed to switch between direct light and scattered light (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2-65001 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] For example, in a lighting device using a liquid crystal cell for p-wave polarization and a liquid crystal cell for s-wave polarization, it is possible to control the degree of light diffusion in two directions by driving both liquid crystal cells separately. In lighting devices capable of controlling the degree of light diffusion in two directions, for example, conventional adjustment methods that adjust the degree of diffusion by detecting the touch position on the screen of a smartphone or tablet can sometimes make fine adjustments difficult due to fluctuations in the touch detection position. Therefore, a control device that makes it easier to fine-tune the degree of diffusion is desired.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a control device for a lighting device that allows easy fine adjustment of the degree of diffusion. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A lighting device control device according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a control device that controls a plurality of lighting devices, and is capable of setting the light distribution shape of light irradiated on a virtual plane in two directions, a first direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction, by adjusting the diffusion degree of light emitted from a light source. The control device includes: a touch sensor having a detection area in which a plurality of detection elements are provided; and a display panel having a display area that overlaps the detection area of ​​the touch sensor in a planar view, and on which an adjustment screen for adjusting the diffusion degree of the lighting devices is displayed. The adjustment screen has an adjustment area for adjusting the diffusion degree of the lighting devices, and when a difference between a target value of diffusion degree defined by a touch detection position within the adjustment area and a current value of diffusion degree of the lighting devices is equal to or greater than a first adjustment interval, the display value is adjusted at the first adjustment interval; and when the difference between the target value and the display value is less than the first adjustment interval, the diffusion degree of the lighting devices is adjusted at a second adjustment interval that is narrower than the first adjustment interval. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1A] FIG. 1A is a side view illustrating an example of a lighting device according to an embodiment. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1B is a perspective view illustrating an example of an optical element according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic plan view of the first substrate as viewed from the Dz direction. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic plan view of the second substrate as viewed from the Dz direction. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a liquid crystal cell in which the first substrate and the second substrate are stacked in the Dz direction. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA' shown in FIG. [Figure 6A] FIG. 6A is a diagram showing the alignment direction of the alignment film of the first substrate. [Figure 6B] FIG. 6B is a diagram showing the alignment direction of the alignment film of the second substrate. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the layer structure of the optical element according to the embodiment. [Figure 8A]FIG. 8A is a conceptual diagram for explaining the change in shape of light caused by the optical element according to the embodiment. [Figure 8B] FIG. 8B is a conceptual diagram for explaining the change in the shape of light caused by the optical element according to the embodiment. [Figure 8C] FIG. 8C is a conceptual diagram for explaining the change in the shape of light caused by the optical element according to the embodiment. [Figure 8D] FIG. 8D is a conceptual diagram for explaining the change in the shape of light caused by the optical element according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a conceptual diagram for explaining the concept of controlling the degree of light diffusion by the lighting device according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a lighting system according to an embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is an external view illustrating an example of a control device according to an embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of a touch detection area in a touch sensor. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a control block configuration of the control device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of a control block configuration of the lighting device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example of a display mode of a lighting control application screen of the control device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the position on the illumination control application screen of the control device and the degree of light diffusion according to the first embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example of a first storage area of ​​a storage circuit in the control device of the lighting device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example of a second storage area of ​​the storage circuit in the control device of the lighting device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an initial setting process in the control device of the lighting device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the overall flow of the illumination control process in the control device for the illumination device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a horizontal diffusion degree adjustment process in the control device of the lighting device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a horizontal diffusion degree coarse adjustment process in the control device of the lighting device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a horizontal diffusion degree fine adjustment process in the control device of the lighting device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a vertical diffusion degree adjustment process in the control device of the lighting device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 25] FIG. 25 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a longitudinal diffusion degree coarse adjustment process in the control device of the lighting device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 26] FIG. 26 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a vertical diffusion degree fine adjustment process in the control device of the lighting device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 27A] FIG. 27A is a diagram showing a specific example of operation on a lighting control application screen of the control device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 27B] FIG. 27B is a diagram showing a specific example of operation on the illumination control application screen of the control device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 27C] FIG. 27C is a diagram showing a specific example of operation on the illumination control application screen of the control device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 27D] FIG. 27D is a diagram showing a specific example of operation on the illumination control application screen of the control device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 27E] FIG. 27E is a diagram showing a specific example of operation on the illumination control application screen of the control device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 27F] FIG. 27F is a diagram showing a specific example of operation on the illumination control application screen of the control device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 27G]FIG. 27G is a diagram showing a specific example of operation on the illumination control application screen of the control device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 27H] FIG. 27H is a diagram showing a specific example of operation on the illumination control application screen of the control device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 28] FIG. 28 is a diagram illustrating an example of a control block configuration of the control device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 29] FIG. 29 is a diagram illustrating an example of a control block configuration of the lighting device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 30] FIG. 30 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example of a display mode of a lighting control application screen of the control device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 31] FIG. 31 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example of a first storage area of ​​a storage circuit in the control device of the lighting device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 32] FIG. 32 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example of a second storage area of ​​a storage circuit in the control device of the lighting device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 33] FIG. 33 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an initial setting process in the control device of the lighting device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 34] FIG. 34 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the overall flow of illumination control processing in the control device for the illumination device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 35] FIG. 35 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a diffusion degree adjustment process in the control device of the lighting device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 36] FIG. 36 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a diffusion degree rough adjustment process in the control device of the lighting device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 37] FIG. 37 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a diffusion degree fine adjustment process in the control device of the lighting device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 38A] FIG. 38A is a diagram showing a specific example of operation on a lighting control application screen of the control device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 38B] FIG. 38B is a diagram showing a specific example of operation on the illumination control application screen of the control device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 38C] FIG. 38C is a diagram showing a specific example of operation on a lighting control application screen of the control device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 38D] FIG. 38D is a diagram showing a specific example of operation on the illumination control application screen of the control device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 38E] FIG. 38E is a diagram showing a specific example of operation on a lighting control application screen of the control device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 38F] FIG. 38F is a diagram showing a specific example of operation on the illumination control application screen of the control device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 38G] FIG. 38G is a diagram showing a specific example of operation on the illumination control application screen of the control device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 38H] FIG. 38H is a diagram showing a specific example of operation on the illumination control application screen of the control device according to the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Modes for carrying out the invention (embodiments) will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The present invention is not limited to the contents described in the following embodiments. Furthermore, the components described below include those that can be easily imagined by a person skilled in the art and those that are substantially identical. Furthermore, the components described below can be combined as appropriate. Note that the disclosure is merely an example, and any appropriate modifications that a person skilled in the art can easily conceive while maintaining the gist of the invention are naturally included within the scope of the present invention. Furthermore, for clarity of explanation, the drawings may show the width, thickness, shape, etc. of each part schematically compared to the actual embodiment. However, these are merely examples and are not intended to limit the interpretation of the present invention. Furthermore, in this specification and each figure, elements similar to those previously described with reference to the preceding figures are designated by the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions may be omitted as appropriate.

[0009] FIG. 1A is a side view illustrating an example of an illumination device 1 according to an embodiment. FIG. 1B is a perspective view illustrating an example of an optical element 100 according to an embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1A, the illumination device 1 includes a light source 4, a reflector 4a, and an optical element 100. As shown in FIG. 1B, the optical element 100 includes a first liquid crystal cell 2_1, a second liquid crystal cell 2_2, a third liquid crystal cell 2_3, and a fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4. The light source 4 is formed of, for example, a light emitting diode (LED). The reflector 4a is a component that collects light from the light source 4 onto the optical element 100.

[0010] In FIG. 1B, the Dz direction indicates the emission direction of light from the light source 4 and the reflector 4a. The optical element 100 is configured by stacking a first liquid crystal cell 2_1, a second liquid crystal cell 2_2, a third liquid crystal cell 2_3, and a fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4 in the Dz direction. In the present disclosure, the optical element 100 is configured by stacking the first liquid crystal cell 2_1, the second liquid crystal cell 2_2, the third liquid crystal cell 2_3, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4 in this order from the light source 4 side (the lower side of FIG. 1B). In FIG. 1B, one direction of a plane parallel to the stacking plane of the first liquid crystal cell 2_1, the second liquid crystal cell 2_2, the third liquid crystal cell 2_3, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4, which is perpendicular to the Dz direction, is defined as the Dx direction (first direction), and a direction perpendicular to both the Dx direction and the Dz direction is defined as the Dy direction (second direction).

[0011] The first liquid crystal cell 2_1, the second liquid crystal cell 2_2, the third liquid crystal cell 2_3, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4 each have the same configuration. In the present disclosure, the first liquid crystal cell 2_1 and the fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4 are liquid crystal cells for p-wave polarization. The second liquid crystal cell 2_2 and the third liquid crystal cell 2_3 are liquid crystal cells for s-wave polarization. Hereinafter, the first liquid crystal cell 2_1, the second liquid crystal cell 2_2, the third liquid crystal cell 2_3, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4 will also be collectively referred to as "liquid crystal cells 2."

[0012] The liquid crystal cell 2 includes a first substrate 5 and a second substrate 6. FIG. 2 is a schematic plan view of the first substrate 5 as viewed from the Dz direction. FIG. 3 is a schematic plan view of the second substrate 6 as viewed from the Dz direction. In FIG. 3, the drive electrodes are visible through the substrates, but the drive electrodes and wiring are shown with solid lines for ease of understanding. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a liquid crystal cell in which the first substrate 5 and the second substrate 6 are stacked in the Dz direction. In FIG. 4, the drive electrodes and wiring on the second substrate side are shown with solid lines, and the drive electrodes and wiring on the first substrate side are shown with dotted lines for ease of understanding. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A' in FIG. 4. In addition, FIGS. 2, 3, 4, and 5 illustrate a third liquid crystal cell 2_3 and a fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4 in which the drive electrodes 10a and 10b of the first substrate 5 extend in the Dx direction and the drive electrodes 13a and 13b of the second substrate 6 extend in the Dy direction.

[0013] As shown in FIG. 5, the liquid crystal cell 2 includes a liquid crystal layer 8 between a first substrate 5 and a second substrate 6, the periphery of which is sealed with a sealing material .

[0014] The liquid crystal layer 8 modulates light passing through the liquid crystal layer 8 according to the state of the electric field. Positive nematic liquid crystal is used as the liquid crystal molecules, but other liquid crystals having a similar effect may also be used.

[0015] As shown in FIG. 2, the first substrate 5 includes, on its base material 9 facing the liquid crystal layer 8, a plurality of drive electrodes 10a and 10b, a plurality of metal wirings 11a and 11b that supply drive voltages to the drive electrodes 10a and 10b, and a plurality of metal wirings 11c and 11d that supply drive voltages to a plurality of drive electrodes 13a and 13b (see FIG. 3) provided on the second substrate 6 (described later). The metal wirings 11a, 11b, 11c, and 11d are provided in a wiring layer on the first substrate 5. The metal wirings 11a, 11b, 11c, and 11d are provided at intervals in the wiring layer on the first substrate 5. Hereinafter, the plurality of drive electrodes 10a and 10b may be simply referred to as "drive electrodes 10." The plurality of metal wirings 11a, 11b, 11c, and 11d may be referred to as "first metal wirings 11." 2 and 7, in the third liquid crystal cell 2_3 and the fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4, the drive electrodes 10 on the first substrate 5 extend in the Dx direction. Note that in the first liquid crystal cell 2_1 and the second liquid crystal cell 2_2, the drive electrodes 10 on the first substrate 5 extend in the Dy direction.

[0016] As shown in FIG. 3, the base material 12 of the second substrate 6 shown in FIG. 5 includes, on the liquid crystal layer 8 side, a plurality of drive electrodes 13a and 13b and a plurality of metal wirings 14a and 14b that supply drive voltages to these drive electrodes 13. The metal wirings 14a and 14b are provided in the wiring layer of the second substrate 6. The metal wirings 14a and 14b are provided at intervals in the wiring layer on the second substrate 6. Hereinafter, the plurality of drive electrodes 13a and 13b may be simply referred to as "drive electrodes 13." The plurality of metal wirings 14a and 14b may be referred to as "second metal wirings 14." As shown in FIGS. 3 and 7, in the third liquid crystal cell 2_3 and the fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4, the drive electrodes 13 on the second substrate 6 extend in the Dy direction. In the first liquid crystal cell 2_1 and the second liquid crystal cell 2_2, the drive electrodes 13 on the second substrate 6 extend in the Dx direction.

[0017] The driving electrodes 10 and 13 are translucent electrodes formed of a translucent conductive material (translucent conductive oxide) such as ITO (Indium Tin Oxide). The first substrate 5 and the second substrate 6 are translucent substrates such as glass or resin. The first metal wiring 11 and the second metal wiring 14 are formed of at least one metal material selected from aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), silver (Ag), molybdenum (Mo), and alloys thereof. The first metal wiring 11 and the second metal wiring 14 may also be formed as a laminated body in which a plurality of layers are stacked using one or more of these metal materials. At least one metal material selected from aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), silver (Ag), molybdenum (Mo), and alloys thereof has lower resistance than a translucent conductive oxide such as ITO.

[0018] Metal wiring 11c of first substrate 5 and metal wiring 14a of second substrate 6 are connected by conductive portion 15a made of, for example, conductive paste. Metal wiring 11d of first substrate 5 and metal wiring 14b of second substrate 6 are connected by conductive portion 15b made of, for example, conductive paste.

[0019] Furthermore, connection (Flex-on-Board) terminal portions 16a and 16b to be connected to a flexible printed circuit (FPC) (not shown) are provided in an area on the first substrate 5 that does not overlap with the second substrate 6 in the Dz direction. The connection terminal portions 16a and 16b each include four connection terminals corresponding to the metal wirings 11a, 11b, 11c, and 11d.

[0020] The connection terminals 16a and 16b are provided on the wiring layer of the first substrate 5. A drive voltage is supplied to the liquid crystal cell 2 from the FPC connected to the connection terminal 16a or the connection terminal 16b to be applied to the drive electrodes 10a and 10b on the first substrate 5 and the drive electrodes 13a and 13b on the second substrate 6. Hereinafter, the connection terminals 16a and 16b may be simply referred to as "connection terminals 16."

[0021] As shown in FIG. 4, the liquid crystal cell 2 has the first substrate 5 and the second substrate 6 overlapping in the Dz direction (light irradiation direction), and the plurality of drive electrodes 10 on the first substrate 5 and the plurality of drive electrodes 13 on the second substrate 6 intersect as viewed from the Dz direction. The liquid crystal cell 2 configured in this manner can control the alignment direction of the liquid crystal molecules 17 in the liquid crystal layer 8 by supplying drive voltages to the plurality of drive electrodes 10 on the first substrate 5 and the plurality of drive electrodes 13 on the second substrate 6, respectively. The region where the alignment direction of the liquid crystal molecules 17 in the liquid crystal layer 8 can be controlled is referred to as the "effective area AA." In the effective area AA, the refractive index distribution of the liquid crystal layer 8 changes, thereby enabling control of the degree of diffusion of light passing through the effective area AA of the liquid crystal cell 2. The region outside the effective area AA, where the liquid crystal layer 8 is sealed with the sealant 7, is referred to as the "peripheral area GA" (see FIG. 5).

[0022] 5, in the effective area AA of the first substrate 5, the drive electrode 10 (drive electrode 10a in FIG. 5) is covered with an alignment film 18. In addition, in the effective area AA of the second substrate 6, the drive electrode 13 (drive electrodes 13a and 13b in FIG. 5) is covered with an alignment film 19. The alignment directions of the liquid crystal molecules in the alignment film 18 and the alignment film 19 are different.

[0023] 6A is a diagram showing the alignment direction of the alignment film on the first substrate 5. FIG. 6B is a diagram showing the alignment direction of the alignment film on the second substrate 6.

[0024] 6A and 6B, the alignment direction of the alignment film 18 on the first substrate 5 and the alignment direction of the alignment film 19 on the second substrate 6 intersect with each other in a plan view. Specifically, as shown by the solid arrow in FIG. 6A, the alignment direction of the alignment film 18 on the first substrate 5 is perpendicular to the extension direction of the drive electrodes 10a and 10b, as shown by the dashed arrow in FIG. 6A. Furthermore, as shown by the solid arrow in FIG. 6B, the alignment direction of the alignment film 19 on the second substrate 6 is perpendicular to the extension direction of the drive electrodes 13a and 13b, as shown by the dashed arrow in FIG. 6B. In the following description, the extension direction of each of the drive electrodes 10 and 13 and the alignment direction of the alignment films 18 and 19 covering them are described as being perpendicular to each other, but they may intersect at an angle other than perpendicular, for example, an angle in the range of 85° to 90°. Furthermore, it is preferable that the drive electrodes 10 on the first substrate 5 side and the drive electrodes 13 on the second substrate 6 side are perpendicular to each other, but they may intersect at an angle ranging from 85° to 90°, for example. The alignment directions of the alignment films 18 and 19 are formed by a rubbing treatment or a photo-alignment treatment.

[0025] Here, we will explain how the shape of light is changed by each liquid crystal cell 2 (first liquid crystal cell 2_1, second liquid crystal cell 2_2, third liquid crystal cell 2_3, and fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4). Fig. 7 is a diagram showing the layered structure of the optical element 100 according to the embodiment. Figs. 8A, 8B, 8C, and 8D are conceptual diagrams for explaining the change in the shape of light by the optical element 100 according to the embodiment. Figs. 8A, 8B, 8C, and 8D show an example in which a potential difference is generated between each drive electrode of the shaded substrate of each liquid crystal cell 2.

[0026] 7, the optical element 100 is provided on the optical axis of the light source 4 indicated by the dashed line, and as described above, the first liquid crystal cell 2_1, the second liquid crystal cell 2_2, the third liquid crystal cell 2_3, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4 are stacked in this order from the light source 4 side (the lower side in FIG. 7). The third liquid crystal cell 2_3 and the fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4 are stacked in a state rotated by 90° with respect to the first liquid crystal cell 2_1 and the second liquid crystal cell 2_2.

[0027] 6A and 6B, in each liquid crystal cell 2, the alignment direction of the alignment film crosses between the first substrate 5 side and the second substrate 6 side. As a result, the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer 8 gradually changes from the Dx direction to the Dy direction (or from the Dy direction to the Dx direction) as it moves from the first substrate 5 side to the second substrate 6 side, and the polarization component of the transmitted light rotates along this change. That is, in the liquid crystal cell 2, the polarization component that was a p-polarized component on the first substrate 5 side changes to an s-polarized component as it moves toward the second substrate 6 side, and the polarization component that was an s-polarized component on the first substrate 5 side changes to a p-polarized component as it moves toward the second substrate 6 side. This rotation of the polarization component may be referred to as optical rotation.

[0028] 8A shows a state in which no potential is generated between adjacent electrodes of each liquid crystal cell 2. In this case, only optical rotation occurs in each liquid crystal cell 2, and none of the polarized light components are diffused.

[0029] 8B, for example, a transverse electric field is generated by generating a potential difference between the drive electrodes 10a and 10b on the first substrate 5 side of the first liquid crystal cell 2_1, and the liquid crystal molecules are aligned in an arc shape between the electrodes, thereby forming a refractive index distribution along the Dx direction in the liquid crystal layer 8. When light from the light source 4 passes through in this state, the refractive index distribution acts on the polarized light component parallel to the Dx direction (the p-polarized component in FIG. 8B), causing the p-polarized component to diffuse in the Dx direction.

[0030] Furthermore, when a potential difference is also generated between the drive electrodes 13a and 13b on the second substrate 6 side of the first liquid crystal cell 2_1, a refractive index distribution in the Dy direction is formed on the second substrate 6 side, which causes the s-polarized component to diffuse in the Dy direction on the second substrate 6 side. That is, the polarized component that changed from a p-polarized component to an s-polarized component while passing through the liquid crystal layer 8 of the first liquid crystal cell 2_1 is now diffused in the Dy direction as well. On the other hand, the s-polarized component when it is incident on the first liquid crystal cell 2_1 undergoes optical rotation while passing through the liquid crystal layer 8, but becomes a polarized component that intersects with both refractive index distributions, so it passes through the first liquid crystal cell 2_1 with only optical rotation without being diffused.

[0031] The s-polarized light component incident on the first liquid crystal cell 2_1 is changed to a p-polarized light component after passing through the first liquid crystal cell 2_1, and the second liquid crystal cell 2_2 acts on the p-polarized light component. That is, as shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B , of the light incident on the optical element 100, the first liquid crystal cell 2_1 acts on the p-polarized light component, and the second liquid crystal cell 2_2 acts on the s-polarized light component. The third liquid crystal cell 2_3 and the fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4 are rotated 90° relative to the first liquid crystal cell 2_1 and the second liquid crystal cell 2_2, so that the polarization components they act on are also swapped by 90°. That is, the third liquid crystal cell 2_3 acts on the s-polarized light component incident on the optical element 100, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4 acts on the p-polarized light component incident on the optical element 100.

[0032] 8C, in the optical element, by applying a potential difference between the drive electrodes extending in the Dy direction for each liquid crystal cell 2 (between the drive electrodes 10a and 10b on the first substrate 5 for the first liquid crystal cell 2_1 and the second liquid crystal cell 2_2, and between the drive electrodes 13a and 13b on the second substrate 6 for the third liquid crystal cell 2_3 and the fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4), the p-polarized light component can be affected, and the shape of the light can be enlarged mainly in the Dx direction. This effect may be called lateral diffusion.

[0033] 8D, by applying a potential difference between the drive electrodes extending in the Dx direction for each liquid crystal cell 2 (between the drive electrodes 13a and 13b on the second substrate 6 in the first liquid crystal cell 2_1 and the second liquid crystal cell 2_2, and between the drive electrodes 10a and 10b on the first substrate 5 in the third liquid crystal cell 2_3 and the fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4), the s-polarized light component can be affected, and the shape of the light can be enlarged mainly in the Dy direction. This effect may be called vertical diffusion.

[0034] The degree of light diffusion in each direction depends on the potential difference between adjacent drive electrodes 10a and 10b (or between drive electrodes 13a and 13b). If the potential difference between drive electrodes 10a and 10b (or between drive electrodes 13a and 13b) is set to a predetermined maximum potential difference (e.g., 30 V), the light diffusion in that direction will be maximum (100%). If no potential difference is generated, no light diffusion will occur in that direction (0%). Alternatively, if the potential difference between drive electrodes 10a and 10b (or between drive electrodes 13a and 13b) is set to 50% of the maximum potential difference (e.g., 15 V), the light diffusion in that direction will be 50%. Note that if the relationship between the voltage difference and the light diffusion is not linear, a potential difference other than 15 V can be used.

[0035] The distance (also called the cell gap) between the substrates (between the first substrate 5 and the second substrate 6) of each liquid crystal cell 2 is wide, about 10 μm to 50 μm, and more preferably about 15 μm to 35 μm, thereby minimizing the influence of the electric field formed on one substrate on the other substrate. Also, the drive voltage that generates a potential difference between adjacent drive electrodes 10 a, 10 b (or drive electrodes 13 a, 13 b) is a so-called AC rectangular wave, which of course prevents burn-in of liquid crystal molecules.

[0036] In addition, the orientation direction of each orientation film, the extension direction of the drive electrodes of each substrate, and the angle between them can be changed as appropriate for the entire optical element 100 or for each liquid crystal cell 2 depending on the characteristics of the liquid crystal used and the optical properties desired to be achieved.

[0037] In this embodiment, the optical element 100 is described as having a configuration in which four liquid crystal cells, a first liquid crystal cell 2_1, a second liquid crystal cell 2_2, a third liquid crystal cell 2_3, and a fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4, are stacked together. However, this configuration is not limited to this, and it is also possible to use a configuration in which, for example, two or three liquid crystal cells 2 are stacked together, or a configuration in which five or more liquid crystal cells 2 are stacked together.

[0038] In the present disclosure, in the lighting device 1 configured as described above, the light incident on the optical element from the light source 4 is controlled in two directions, the Dx direction (horizontal diffusion direction) and the Dy direction (vertical diffusion direction), by controlling the drive voltage of each liquid crystal cell 2. The vertical and horizontal diffusions may be collectively referred to as light diffusion. This changes the shape of the light emitted from the optical element. The light shape refers to the shape of the light appearing on a plane parallel to the exit surface of the optical element, and may also be referred to as the light distribution shape. The control of the degree of light diffusion in the present disclosure will be described below with reference to FIG. 9.

[0039] 9 is a conceptual diagram for explaining the control of the degree of light diffusion by the lighting device 1 according to the embodiment. Fig. 9 shows the light illumination range on a virtual plane xy perpendicular to the Dz direction. Note that the outline of the actual illumination range may be slightly unclear due to factors such as the distance from the light source 4 and the light diffraction phenomenon.

[0040] As described above, the alignment direction of the liquid crystal molecules 17 in the liquid crystal layer 8 is controlled by supplying a drive voltage to each of the drive electrodes 10, 13 of each liquid crystal cell 2 of the optical element 100 provided on the optical axis of the light source 4. This controls the light distribution shape of the light emitted from the optical element 100.

[0041] Specifically, for example, as described above, the light distribution pattern in the Dx direction changes (horizontal diffusion) depending on the drive voltage applied to the drive electrodes 10 or 13 extending in the Dy direction in each liquid crystal cell 2. Also, the light distribution pattern in the Dy direction changes (vertical diffusion) depending on the drive voltage applied to the drive electrodes 10 or 13 extending in the Dx direction in the first to fourth liquid crystal cells.

[0042] In the present disclosure, the minimum diffusivity of the horizontal and vertical diffusion is 0% and the maximum diffusivity is 100%. More specifically, when the horizontal diffusivity is 0%, the drive electrodes (e.g., the drive electrodes 10 extending in the Dy direction on the first substrate 5 of the first liquid crystal cell 2_1) that function to widen the light distribution in the Dx direction do not affect the refractive index distribution of the liquid crystal layer 8. In this case, there is no potential difference between the adjacent drive electrodes 10a and 10b, or no potential is supplied to the electrodes. On the other hand, when the horizontal diffusivity is 100%, the drive electrodes (e.g., the drive electrodes 10 extending in the Dy direction on the first substrate 5 of the first liquid crystal cell 2_1) that function to widen the light distribution in the Dx direction have the maximum effect on the refractive index distribution of the liquid crystal layer 8. In this case, the potential difference between the adjacent drive electrodes 10a and 10b is set to the maximum potential difference (e.g., 30V) in the optical element 100. When the horizontal diffusion rate is greater than 0% and less than 100%, the potential difference between the adjacent drive electrodes 10a and 10b is adjusted to be greater than 0V and less than the maximum potential difference (e.g., 30V). The same applies to the vertical diffusion rate.

[0043] The outline a in Fig. 9 illustrates an example of an illumination range on the virtual plane xy when the horizontal diffusivity and vertical diffusivity are both 100%. The outline b in Fig. 9 illustrates an example of an illumination range on the virtual plane xy when the horizontal diffusivity is 100% and the vertical diffusivity is 0%. The outline c in Fig. 9 illustrates an example of an illumination range on the virtual plane xy when the horizontal diffusivity is 0% and the vertical diffusivity is 100%. The outline d in Fig. 9 illustrates an example of an illumination range on the virtual plane xy when the horizontal diffusivity and vertical diffusivity are both 0%. That is, the outline d shows the light distribution state when light from the light source 4 is emitted without being controlled by the optical element 100 (i.e., transmitted through the optical element 100 as is).

[0044] In this way, in the lighting device 1 configured as described above, the horizontal diffusivity and vertical diffusivity of the light emitted from the optical element 100 can be controlled by controlling the drive voltage of each liquid crystal cell 2. This makes it possible to change the light distribution pattern on the virtual plane xy of the light emitted from the lighting device 1. Hereinafter, the control of changing the light distribution pattern of the light irradiated on the virtual plane xy by adjusting the horizontal diffusivity and vertical diffusivity of the light emitted from the lighting device 1 will also be referred to as "light distribution control."

[0045] In this disclosure, an illumination device 1 capable of controlling light distribution in two directions, the Dx direction and the Dy direction, is exemplified, but the controllable parameters of the illumination device 1 are not limited to light distribution (spread of light). For example, the illumination device 1 may be capable of dimming control. In this case, the controllable parameters of the illumination device 1 may include dimming (brightness).

[0046] 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a lighting system according to an embodiment. The lighting system according to the embodiment includes a plurality of lighting devices 1_1, 1_2, . . . , 1_N and a control device 200. The control device 200 is exemplified by a portable communication terminal device such as a smartphone or a tablet. Each of the lighting devices 1_1, 1_2, . . . , 1_N is registered in advance in the control device 200 as a control target device whose light diffusion degree can be controlled by the control device 200.

[0047] Data and various command signals are transmitted and received between each of the lighting devices 1_1, 1_2, ..., 1_N and the control device 200 via a communication means 300. In the present disclosure, the communication means 300 is, for example, a wireless communication means such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or WiFi (registered trademark). Each of the lighting devices 1_1, 1_2, ..., 1_N and the control device 200 may communicate wirelessly via a predetermined network such as a mobile communication network. Alternatively, each of the lighting devices 1_1, 1_2, ..., 1_N and the control device 200 may be wiredly connected to each other and communicate via wire.

[0048] 10, the present disclosure illustrates an example in which N (N is a natural number greater than or equal to 1) lighting devices 1_n (n is a natural number from 1 to N) are controlled by the control device 200, but the present disclosure is not limited to the number of controlled devices (lighting devices 1_n) of the control device 200. Furthermore, the present disclosure describes an example in which the light diffusion degree of each lighting device 1_n is controlled as a setting parameter of the controlled device (lighting device 1_n), but the setting parameter is not limited to the light diffusion degree. The setting parameter of the controlled device (lighting device 1_n) may include, for example, the light intensity or color temperature of the lighting device 1_n.

[0049] Furthermore, in the present disclosure, it is sufficient that at least one lighting device 1 is registered as a device to be controlled. For ease of explanation, the following describes processing between the control device 200 and one lighting device 1.

[0050] 11 is an external view showing an example of a control device 200 according to an embodiment. The control device 200 is a display device (touch screen) with a touch detection function, in which a display panel 20 and a touch sensor 30 are integrated. The control device 200 is equipped with, as internal components, various ICs such as a detection IC and a display IC, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) of a smartphone, tablet, or the like that constitutes the control device 200, a RAM (Random Access Memory), an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory), a ROM (Read Only Memory), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), and the like.

[0051] The display panel 20 is a so-called in-cell type or hybrid type device in which the touch sensor 30 is built in and integrated. Building the touch sensor 30 in and integrating the display panel 20 includes, for example, using some of the components, such as the substrate and electrodes, used as the display panel 20 and some of the components, such as the substrate and electrodes, used as the touch sensor 30. Note that the display panel 20 may also be a so-called on-cell type device in which the touch sensor 30 is mounted on a display device.

[0052] The display panel 20 may be, for example, a liquid crystal display panel using a liquid crystal display element, but is not limited to this, and may be, for example, an organic EL display panel (OLED: Organic Light Emitting Diode) or an inorganic EL display panel (micro LED, mini LED).

[0053] The touch sensor 30 is, for example, a capacitance type touch sensor, but is not limited to this, and the touch sensor 30 may be, for example, a resistive film type touch sensor, an ultrasonic type touch sensor, or an optical type touch sensor.

[0054] 12 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of a touch detection area in the touch sensor 30. A plurality of detection elements 31 are provided in the detection area FA of the touch sensor 30. The plurality of detection elements 31 are arranged in a matrix in the X direction and the Y direction perpendicular to the X direction within the detection area FA of the touch sensor 30. In other words, the touch sensor 30 has a detection area FA that overlaps with the plurality of detection elements 31 arranged in the X direction and the Y direction.

[0055] (Embodiment 1) The configuration and operation for controlling the degree of light diffusion of the lighting device 1 in the lighting system control device 200 according to the first embodiment will be described below.

[0056] 13 is a diagram showing an example of a control block configuration of the control device 200 according to embodiment 1. First, the control block configuration for executing each process described below will be described.

[0057] As shown in FIG. 13 , the control device 200 according to the first embodiment includes a display panel 20, a touch sensor 30, a detection circuit 211, a conversion processing circuit 212, a memory circuit (first memory circuit) 223, a transmission / reception circuit 225, and a display control circuit 231. The detection circuit 211 is configured, for example, by a detection IC. Alternatively, the detection circuit 211 and the display control circuit 231 may be mounted as a single display IC on the display panel 20 or on an FPC connected to the display panel 20. The conversion processing circuit 212 and the memory circuit 223 are configured, for example, by a CPU, RAM, EEPROM, ROM, etc., of a smartphone, tablet, or the like that constitutes the control device 200. The display control circuit 231 may be a display IC mounted on the display panel 20 as described above, or may further include, for example, a GPU, etc., of a smartphone, tablet, or the like that constitutes the control device 200. The transmission / reception circuit 225 is configured, for example, by a wireless communication module of a smartphone, tablet, or the like that constitutes the control device 200.

[0058] The detection circuit 211 is a circuit that detects whether or not the touch sensor 30 is touched based on the detection signals output from the detection elements 31 of the touch sensor 30 .

[0059] The conversion processing circuit 212 is a circuit that performs conversion processing between the touch detection position in the detection circuit 211 and various setting values ​​(in the present disclosure, the light diffusion degree) of the lighting device 1. In the present disclosure, the conversion processing circuit 212 also has a function of performing conversion processing between the touch detection position in the detection circuit 211, and therefore the touched object (image), and the operation state on various screens. The conversion processing circuit 212 is a component realized by, for example, a CPU of a smartphone, tablet, or the like that configures the control device 200.

[0060] The memory circuitry 223 is configured with, for example, RAM, EEPROM, ROM, etc. of a smartphone, tablet, or the like that constitutes the control device 200. In the present disclosure, various parameter values ​​and various setting values ​​required for the operation of a lighting control app according to embodiment 1, which will be described later, are stored in a memory area of ​​the memory circuitry 223. The various parameter values ​​and various setting values ​​required for the operation of the lighting control app according to embodiment 1 will be described later.

[0061] The transmission / reception circuit 225 transmits and receives setting information to and from the lighting device 1. Specifically, in each process described below, the transmission / reception circuit 225 transmits the Dx-direction light diffusion degree S1x and the Dy-direction light diffusion degree S1y as first setting information to the lighting device 1. In addition, the transmission / reception circuit 225 receives second light diffusion degree information (Dx-direction light diffusion degree S2x and Dy-direction light diffusion degree S2y) transmitted from the lighting device 1.

[0062] The display control circuit 231 executes display control processing for displaying a coarse adjustment mode screen or a fine adjustment mode screen, which will be described later, on the display panel 20. In the present disclosure, the display control circuit 231 controls the display of the display panel 20 based on various setting information and position information of image images stored in the memory area of ​​the memory circuit 223.

[0063] Fig. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a control block configuration of the illumination device 1 according to embodiment 1. As shown in Fig. 14, the illumination device 1 according to embodiment 1 includes a transmission / reception circuit 111, an electrode driving circuit 112, and a memory circuit (second memory circuit) 113 as control blocks for controlling the above-mentioned optical element 100. The memory circuit 113 is configured with, for example, a RAM, an EEPROM, a ROM, etc.

[0064] The transmission / reception circuit 111 transmits and receives light diffusion degree information to and from the control device 200. Specifically, the transmission / reception circuit 111 receives first light diffusion degree information (Dx-direction light diffusion degree S1x and Dy-direction light diffusion degree S1y) transmitted from the control device 200. In addition, the transmission / reception circuit 111 transmits the Dx-direction light diffusion degree S2x and Dy-direction light diffusion degree S2y stored in the memory circuit 113 to the control device 200 as second light diffusion degree information.

[0065] In the present disclosure, when the lighting device 1 is started up, the transmission / reception circuit 111 transmits the Dx-direction light diffusion degree S2x and the Dy-direction light diffusion degree S2y stored in the memory circuit 113 to the control device 200 as second light diffusion degree information, and stores the first light diffusion degree information (Dx-direction light diffusion degree S1x and Dy-direction light diffusion degree S1y) transmitted from the control device 200 by various processes of the control device 200, which will be described later, in the memory circuit 113 as new Dx-direction light diffusion degree S2x and Dy-direction light diffusion degree S2y. That is, when the first light diffusion degree information is transmitted from the control device 200 to the lighting device 1, the second light diffusion degree information is updated to the first light diffusion degree information. Note that the lighting device 1 does not initially store the second light diffusion degree information (both vertical diffusion and horizontal diffusion are 0[%]). In this case, the lighting device 1 stores the second light diffusion degree information when the first light diffusion degree information is transmitted from the control device 200.

[0066] The electrode driving circuit 112 supplies driving voltages according to the Dx direction light diffusion degree S2x and the Dy direction light diffusion degree S2y stored in the memory circuit 113 to the driving electrodes 10 and 13 of each liquid crystal cell 2 of the optical element 100 .

[0067] Specifically, when the lighting device 1 is started up, the electrode driving circuit 112 supplies a driving voltage according to the second setting information stored in the memory circuit 113 to each of the driving electrodes 10 and 13 of each of the liquid crystal cells 2 of the optical element 100.

[0068] In addition, the electrode driving circuit 112 supplies driving voltages according to the second setting information updated based on the first setting information transmitted from the control device 200 to the driving electrodes 10, 13 of each liquid crystal cell 2 of the optical element 100.

[0069] The processing of the lighting system in the present disclosure is executed by application software (hereinafter also referred to as "lighting control app") that runs on the control device 200. Specific examples of each process and display mode in the lighting control app that runs on the control device 200 according to the first embodiment will be described in detail below.

[0070] FIG. 15 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of a display mode of the illumination control application screen 400 of the control device 200 according to the first embodiment.

[0071] In the present disclosure, the lighting control application will be described as being installed in the control device 200 in advance.

[0072] When the lighting control app is launched, a lighting control app screen 400 (adjustment screen) shown in Fig. 15 is displayed, and a pairing process is executed between the control device 200 and a lighting device 1 that has been registered in advance as a device to be controlled by the control device 200. Note that a pairing button (not shown) may be displayed on the lighting control app screen 400, and the pairing process may be executed between the control device 200 and the lighting device 1 when the user touches the pairing button. Alternatively, when the lighting control app is launched for the first time, for example, a lighting device 1 that is running in a space that can be paired may be registered as a device to be controlled.

[0073] 15, the X direction is defined to correspond to the Dx direction (first direction) in the control of the light diffusion degree of the lighting device 1, and the Y direction is defined to correspond to the Dy direction (second direction) in the control of the light diffusion degree of the lighting device 1. Furthermore, the lighting control app screen 400 defines an XY plane with a predetermined position on the display area DA as the origin O(0,0).

[0074] The display panel 20 is provided with a display area DA that overlaps the detection area FA of the touch sensor 30 in a plan view. In the example shown in Fig. 15, a light distribution shape object OBJ is displayed with its center point at the origin O(0,0) of the XY plane on the lighting control application screen 400.

[0075] The light distribution shape object OBJ is an image corresponding to the light distribution state of the light emitted from the lighting device 1 on the lighting control application screen 400.

[0076] In the configuration according to the first embodiment, the shape of the light distribution shape object OBJ on the illumination control application screen 400 changes to a circular or elliptical shape depending on the horizontal diffusion degree and the vertical diffusion degree.

[0077] As shown in Fig. 9, in the lighting device 1 to be controlled in the present disclosure, even when both the horizontal diffusion degree and the vertical diffusion degree of the lighting device 1 are set to 0[%], light is irradiated within a predetermined approximately circular range corresponding to the contour d. In the present disclosure, when both the horizontal diffusion degree and the vertical diffusion degree are set to 0[%], a small circular light distribution shape object OBJ overlapping the inner dashed line shown in Fig. 15 is displayed. When both the horizontal diffusion degree and the vertical diffusion degree of the lighting device 1 are set to 100[%], a large circular light distribution shape object OBJ overlapping the outer dashed line shown in Fig. 15 is displayed, corresponding to the contour a in Fig. 9.

[0078] In the first embodiment, as shown in Fig. 15, a first adjustment area TA1 is provided as an area where a touch detection position in the X direction can be acquired to set the horizontal diffusion degree. The first adjustment area TA1 is set to a range where the light distribution shape in the X direction can be adjusted over the entire range from the minimum value (0[%]) to the maximum value (100[%]).

[0079] Within the first adjustment area TA1, a touch position in the X direction can be detected between a position on the contour line of the light distribution shape object OBJ when the horizontal diffusion degree is 0% and a position on the contour line of the light distribution shape object OBJ when the horizontal diffusion degree is 100%. In the first embodiment, the horizontal diffusion degree can be adjusted by detecting a touch position in the X direction within the first adjustment area TA1.

[0080] 15, a second adjustment area TA2 is provided as an area where a touch detection position in the Y direction can be acquired to set the vertical diffusion degree. The second adjustment area TA2 is set to a range where the light distribution shape in the Y direction can be adjusted over the entire range from the minimum value (0[%]) to the maximum value (100[%]).

[0081] Within the second adjustment area TA2, a touch position in the Y direction can be detected between a position on the contour line of the light distribution shape object OBJ when the vertical diffusion degree is 0% and a position on the contour line of the light distribution shape object OBJ when the vertical diffusion degree is 100%. In the first embodiment, the vertical diffusion degree can be adjusted by detecting a touch position in the Y direction within the second adjustment area TA2.

[0082] 16 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the position on the lighting application and the degree of light diffusion in the control device 200 according to embodiment 1. For ease of explanation, in the present disclosure, the description will be given assuming that the position (coordinates) on the display area DA of the display panel 20 and the position (coordinates) on the detection area FA of the touch sensor 30 are equivalent.

[0083] On the lighting control application screen 400 of the control device 200 according to the first embodiment, the horizontal diffusion degree of the lighting device 1 can be set by the position x0 of the intersection between the X axis of the XY plane and the contour line of the light distribution shape object OBJ.

[0084] In the first embodiment, the position x0 on the display area DA in the first adjustment area TA1 coincides with the intersection of the X-axis and the outline of the light distribution shape object OBJ, and corresponds to the horizontal diffusion degree of the lighting device 1. A pointer (an image such as a slider) indicating the X-direction position of the light distribution shape object OBJ, with the position x0 on the display area DA as its center, may be displayed at the intersection of the X-axis and the outline of the light distribution shape object OBJ in the first adjustment area TA1. In FIG. 16, "Sx" displayed near the position x0 on the display area DA indicates the horizontal diffusion degree of the lighting device 1 (for example, "50" [%]). The shape of the light distribution shape object OBJ in the X-direction changes as the position x0 on the display area DA moves in the first adjustment area TA1. The relationship between the position x0 on the display area DA in the first adjustment area TA1 and the horizontal diffusion degree Sx can be expressed as follows:

[0085] The reference movement amount Px in the X direction on the XY plane when the amount of change in the horizontal diffusion degree of the lighting device 1 in one step is 1 [%] is the intersection of the X axis and the outline of the light distribution shape object OBJ when the horizontal diffusion degree Sx is 100 [%]. 100 If the intersection of the X axis with the contour of the light distribution shape object OBJ when the horizontal diffusivity Sx is 0[%] is X0, then it is expressed by the following equation (1).

[0086] Px=(X 100 -X0) / 100···(1)

[0087] The relationship between the horizontal diffusivity Sx and the position x0 on the display area DA on the XY plane is expressed by the following equations (2) and (3) using the above equation (1).

[0088] Sx = (x0 - X0) / Px (2)

[0089] x0 = Sx × Px + X0 (3)

[0090] Furthermore, on the lighting control application screen 400 of the control device 200 according to the first embodiment, the vertical diffusion degree of the lighting device 1 can be set by the position y0 of the intersection between the Y axis of the XY plane and the contour line of the light distribution shape object OBJ.

[0091] In the present disclosure, position y0 on the display area DA in the second adjustment area TA2 coincides with the intersection of the Y axis and the outline of the light distribution shape object OBJ, and corresponds to the vertical diffusion degree of the lighting device 1. Note that a pointer (an image such as a slider) indicating the Y-direction position of the light distribution shape object OBJ, with position y0 on the display area DA as its center, may be displayed at the intersection of the Y axis and the outline of the light distribution shape object OBJ in the second adjustment area TA2. In FIG. 16 , "Sy" displayed near position y0 on the display area DA indicates the vertical diffusion degree of the lighting device 1 (e.g., "50" [%]). As position y0 on the display area DA moves in the second adjustment area TA2, the shape of the light distribution shape object OBJ in the Y direction changes. The relationship between position y0 on the display area DA in the second adjustment area TA2 and vertical diffusion degree Sy can be expressed as follows:

[0092] The reference movement amount Py in the Y direction on the XY plane when the amount of change in the vertical diffusion degree of the lighting device 1 by one step is 1 [%] is the intersection of the Y axis with the outline of the light distribution shape object OBJ when the vertical diffusion degree Sy is 100 [%]. 100 If the intersection of the Y axis with the contour of the light distribution shape object OBJ when the vertical diffusion degree Sy is 0[%] is Y0, then it is expressed by the following equation (4).

[0093] Py=(Y 100 -Y0) / 100 (4)

[0094] The relationship between the vertical diffusivity Sy and the position y0 on the display area DA on the XY plane is expressed by the following equations (5) and (6) using the above equation (4).

[0095] Sy = (y0 - Y0) / Py (5)

[0096] y0=Sy×Py+Y0 (6)

[0097] In the first embodiment, the control device 200 proceeds to a diffusion degree adjustment process when detecting a continuous touch state in the first adjustment area TA1 or the second adjustment area TA2 on the above-described lighting control application screen 400. Hereinafter, the continuous touch state in the first adjustment area TA1 or the second adjustment area TA2 is also referred to as a "long tap state."

[0098] In embodiment 1, a "long tap state" refers to a state in which the duration T1 of touch within the first adjustment area TA1 or the second adjustment area TA2 has exceeded a predetermined long tap detection time (first time threshold) T1th (e.g., 2 [sec]).

[0099] Fig. 17 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of a first storage area of ​​the storage circuit 223 in the control device 200 of the lighting device 1 according to the first embodiment. Fig. 18 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of a second storage area of ​​the storage circuit 223 in the control device 200 of the lighting device 1 according to the first embodiment. The first storage area is an area where various parameter values ​​(variables) necessary for the operation of the lighting control app are stored. The second storage area of ​​the storage circuit 223 is an area where various setting values ​​in the lighting control app are stored.

[0100] 17 , the first storage area of ​​the storage circuitry 223 stores a horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx, a vertical diffusion degree display value Sy, an X-direction position display value x0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ, and a Y-direction position display value y0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ on the lighting control application screen 400. The horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx indicates the current value of the horizontal diffusion degree of the lighting device 1 defined by the X-direction position display value x0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ. The vertical diffusion degree display value Sy indicates the current value of the vertical diffusion degree of the lighting device 1 defined by the Y-direction position display value y0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ. The first storage area also stores: an X-direction touch position detection value x'0 in the first adjustment area TA1; a Y-direction touch position detection value y'0 in the second adjustment area TA2; a horizontal diffusion factor target value Sx' calculated based on the X-direction touch position detection value x'0; a vertical diffusion factor target value Sy' calculated based on the Y-direction touch position detection value y'0; a horizontal diffusion factor difference value ΔSx, which is the difference between the horizontal diffusion factor target value Sx' and the horizontal diffusion factor display value Sx; and a vertical diffusion factor difference value ΔSy, which is the difference between the vertical diffusion factor target value Sy' and the vertical diffusion factor display value Sy. The horizontal diffusion factor target value Sx' is a value calculated from the X-direction touch position detection value x'0 in the first adjustment area TA1. In other words, the horizontal diffusion factor target value Sx' is a value defined by the X-direction touch position detection value x'0 in the first adjustment area TA1. The target vertical diffusion degree value Sy' is a value calculated from the Y-direction touch position detection value y'0 in the second adjustment area TA2. That is, the target vertical diffusion degree value Sy' is a value defined by the Y-direction touch position detection value y'0 in the second adjustment area TA2.

[0101] The horizontal diffusion degree of the lighting device 1 is changed at different adjustment scales in accordance with the magnitude of the horizontal diffusion degree difference value ΔSx calculated at every predetermined setting value change time (second time threshold) T2th (e.g., 0.5 [sec]) in the lighting control process according to the first embodiment, which will be described later. The vertical diffusion degree of the lighting device 1 is changed at different adjustment scales (change steps) in accordance with the magnitude of the vertical diffusion degree difference value ΔSy calculated at every predetermined setting value change time (second time threshold) T2th in the lighting control process according to the first embodiment, which will be described later.

[0102] In the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 18, the second storage area of ​​the storage circuitry 223 stores a horizontal spread degree coarse adjustment scale setting value LSCx (first adjustment interval), a vertical spread degree coarse adjustment scale setting value LSCy (first adjustment interval), a horizontal spread degree fine adjustment scale setting value SSCx (second adjustment interval), and a vertical spread degree fine adjustment scale setting value SSCy (second adjustment interval).

[0103] The horizontal spreadness coarse adjustment scale setting value LSCx and the vertical spreadness coarse adjustment scale setting value LSCy are set to, for example, 20[%]. The horizontal spreadness fine adjustment scale setting value SSCx and the vertical spreadness fine adjustment scale setting value SSCy are set to, for example, 1[%]. Note that these adjustment scales are merely examples and are not limited to the above. For example, the horizontal spreadness coarse adjustment scale setting value LSCx and the vertical spreadness coarse adjustment scale setting value LSCy may be set to, for example, 10[%] or 30[%], and the horizontal spreadness fine adjustment scale setting value SSCx and the vertical spreadness fine adjustment scale setting value SSCy may be set to, for example, 0.5[%] or 2[%]. In the first embodiment, the horizontal diffusion degree fine-adjustment scale setting value SSCx (second adjustment interval) may be an interval (change width) narrower than the horizontal diffusion degree coarse adjustment scale setting value LSCx (first adjustment interval), and the vertical diffusion degree fine-adjustment scale setting value SSCy (second adjustment interval) may be an interval (change width) narrower than the vertical diffusion degree coarse adjustment scale setting value LSCy (first adjustment interval). Furthermore, the horizontal diffusion degree coarse adjustment scale setting value LSCx, the vertical diffusion degree coarse adjustment scale setting value LSCy, the horizontal diffusion degree fine adjustment scale setting value SSCx, and the vertical diffusion degree fine adjustment scale setting value SSCy may be set by the user on the lighting control app.

[0104] A specific example of the processing in the control device 200 of the lighting device 1 according to the first embodiment will be described below.

[0105] The above-described processing during execution of the lighting control app is realized by application software executed on a CPU of a smartphone, tablet, or the like that constitutes the control device 200. Fig. 19 is a flowchart showing an example of an initial setting process in the control device 200 of the lighting device 1 according to the first embodiment.

[0106] When the lighting control application is started on the control device 200, the lighting control application screen 400 shown in FIG. 15 is displayed in the display area DA (step S001).

[0107] Before the lighting control app is started, the lighting device 1 that is registered in advance in a space that can be paired with the control device 200 is started.

[0108] The transmitter / receiver circuit 225 of the control device 200 executes a pairing process with the lighting device 1 that is registered in advance as a control target device and is activated in a space that can be paired with the control device 200 (step S002), and transmits a request command for the second setting information to the control target device (lighting device 1) (step S003).

[0109] The transmitting / receiving circuit 111 of the lighting device 1 reads out the second setting information stored in the memory circuit 113 and transmits it to the control device 200. Furthermore, the electrode driving circuit 112 of the lighting device 1 supplies a driving voltage according to the second setting information to each of the driving electrodes 10, 13 of each liquid crystal cell 2 of the optical element 100.

[0110] The transmission / reception circuit 225 of the control device 200 determines whether or not the second setting information has been received from the lighting device 1 (step S004). If the second setting information has not been received from the lighting device 1 (step S004; No), the processing of step S004 is repeatedly executed.

[0111] When the second setting information is received from the lighting device 1 (step S004; Yes), the transmission / reception circuit 225 stores the Dx direction light diffusion degree S2x of the second setting information of the lighting device 1 as the horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx and the Dy direction light diffusion degree S2y as the vertical diffusion degree display value Sy in the first memory area of ​​the memory circuit 223 shown in FIG. 17 (step S005).

[0112] The first storage area stores an initial horizontal diffusion degree value Sx_ini (e.g., 50[%]) and an initial vertical diffusion degree value Sy_ini (e.g., 50[%]). For example, when the lighting device 1 is turned on for the first time or when a lighting device 1 that is turned on in a pairable space is registered as a control target device, instead of the processing of steps S003 to S005, the initial horizontal diffusion degree value Sx_ini (e.g., 50[%] shown in FIG. 17 ) may be set as the horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx, the initial vertical diffusion degree value Sy_ini (e.g., 50[%] shown in FIG. 17 ) may be set as the vertical diffusion degree display value Sy, and the horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx and the vertical diffusion degree display value Sy may be transmitted to the registered lighting device 1 as first setting information (S1x, S1y). In this case, the transmitting / receiving circuit 111 of the lighting device 1 stores the first setting information (S1x, S1y) received from the control device 200 as second setting information (S2x, S2y) in the memory circuit 113. Furthermore, the electrode driving circuit 112 of the lighting device 1 supplies driving voltages according to the second setting information to the driving electrodes 10, 13 of each liquid crystal cell 2 of the optical element 100.

[0113] The control device 200 calculates the X-direction position display value x0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ using the above equation (3) based on the horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx stored in the first memory area of ​​the memory circuitry 223, and calculates the Y-direction position display value y0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ using the above equation (6) based on the vertical diffusion degree display value Sy stored in the first memory area (step S006), and stores them in the first memory area.

[0114] The display control circuit 231 of the control device 200 reflects the horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx, the X-direction position display value x0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ, the vertical diffusion degree display value Sy, and the Y-direction position display value y0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ, which are acquired in the above processing and stored in the first memory area of ​​the memory circuit 223, in the display control on the lighting control application screen 400 (step S007).

[0115] When the processing up to step S007 is completed, the process goes to a standby state (step S008), and then goes to the illumination control processing shown in Fig. 20 (step S100). Fig. 20 is a flowchart showing an example of the overall flow of the illumination control processing in the control device 200 of the illumination device 1 according to the first embodiment.

[0116] In the standby state shown in FIG. 20 (step S101), the control device 200 executes touch detection processing in the first adjustment area TA1 and the second adjustment area TA2 (steps S102 and S103).

[0117] Specifically, for example, when the control device 200 has not detected a touch in the first adjustment area TA1 (step S102; No), the control device 200 executes touch detection in the second adjustment area TA2 (step S103). Note that this is not limiting, and the control device 200 may execute touch detection in the first adjustment area TA1 when it has not detected a touch in the second adjustment area TA2.

[0118] If neither a touch in the first adjustment area TA1 nor a touch in the second adjustment area TA2 is detected (step S102; No, step S103; No), the process returns to the standby state of step S101, and the processes from step S101 to step S103 are repeatedly executed. The execution interval of the processes from step S101 to step S103 is set to, for example, 10 [ms].

[0119] When a touch within the first adjustment area TA1 is detected (step S102; Yes), the process proceeds to the horizontal diffusivity adjustment process shown in FIG. 21 (step S200). FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing an example of the horizontal diffusivity adjustment process in the control device 200 of the lighting device 1 according to Embodiment 1.

[0120] When the process proceeds to the horizontal diffusivity adjustment process shown in FIG. 21, the control device 200 resets the count value T1 of the first timer that counts the duration of the touch within the first adjustment area TA1 (T1 = 0, step S201).

[0121] Subsequently, the control device 200 determines whether the count value T1 of the first timer has elapsed a predetermined long tap detection time (first time threshold) T1th (for example, 2 [sec]) (step S202). The long tap detection time (first time threshold) T1th is set to 200 counts (T1th = 200) when, for example, 10 [ms] is counted as one count. Note that the long tap detection time (first time threshold) T1th is not limited to 2 [sec] (= 200).

[0122] If the count value T1 of the first timer is less than the predetermined long tap detection time T1th (T1 < T1th, step S202; No), subsequently, the control device 200 determines whether the touch state within the first adjustment area TA1 continues (step S203). If the touch state within the first adjustment area TA1 does not continue (step S203; No), that is, if the user's finger has left the screen or the touch detection position has moved out of the first adjustment area TA1, the process returns to the lighting control process shown in FIG. 20, and the control state of the horizontal diffusivity of the lighting device 1 is not adjusted, and the process proceeds to the standby state (step S101).

[0123] If the touch state within the first adjustment area TA1 continues (step S203; Yes), until the count value T1 of the first timer elapses the predetermined long tap detection time T1th (step S202; No), the processes of steps S202 to step S203 are repeatedly executed.

[0124] When the count value T1 of the first timer has passed a predetermined long tap detection time T1th (step S202; Yes), the control device 200 determines that a long tap state has occurred (step S204), resets the count value T2 of the second timer that counts a predetermined setting value change time (second time threshold) T2th (T2=0, step S205), detects the touch position in the X direction within the first adjustment area TA1, stores this as an X-direction touch position detection value x'0 in a first storage area of ​​the storage circuit 223 shown in Fig. 17 (step S206), calculates a horizontal diffuseness target value Sx' corresponding to the X-direction touch position detection value x'0 (step S207), and stores this in the first storage area shown in Fig. 17. Note that the X-direction touch position detection value x'0 within the first adjustment area TA1 is a position different from the X-direction position display value x0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ.

[0125] Then, the control device 200 reads out the horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx and the horizontal diffusion degree target value Sx' from the first storage area, calculates the horizontal diffusion degree difference value ΔSx (ΔSx=Sx'-Sx, step S208), and determines whether the magnitude |ΔSx| of the horizontal diffusion degree difference value ΔSx is less than the magnitude |SSCx| of the horizontal diffusion degree fine adjustment scale setting value SSCx (second adjustment interval) (step S209).

[0126] If the magnitude |ΔSx| of the horizontal diffuseness difference value ΔSx is equal to or larger than the magnitude |SSCx| of the horizontal diffuseness fine adjustment scale setting value SSCx (step S209; No), then the control device 200 determines whether the magnitude |ΔSx| of the horizontal diffuseness difference value ΔSx is equal to or larger than the magnitude |LSCx| of the horizontal diffuseness coarse adjustment scale setting value LSCx (step S211).

[0127] If the magnitude |ΔSx| of the horizontal diffusion degree difference value ΔSx is equal to or larger than the magnitude |LSCx| of the horizontal diffusion degree coarse adjustment scale setting value LSCx (step S211; Yes), the controller 200 executes the horizontal diffusion degree coarse adjustment process shown in Fig. 22. Fig. 22 is a flowchart showing an example of the horizontal diffusion degree coarse adjustment process in the controller 200 of the lighting device 1 according to the first embodiment.

[0128] The control device 200 reads the sign of the horizontal spreadability difference value ΔSx and determines the adjustment direction of the horizontal spreadability display value Sx relative to the horizontal spreadability target value Sx'. Specifically, the control device 200 determines whether the sign of the horizontal spreadability difference value ΔSx is "+ (positive value)" (step S221).

[0129] If the sign of the horizontal diffusion degree difference value ΔSx is "+ (positive value)" (step S221; Yes), this indicates that the adjustment direction of the horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx relative to the horizontal diffusion degree target value Sx' is a direction in which the horizontal diffusion degree of the lighting device 1 is increased. At this time, the control device 200 adds the horizontal diffusion degree coarse adjustment scale setting value LSCx (first adjustment interval) to the horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx (step S222) to update the horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx. In addition, the control device 200 calculates the X-direction position display value x0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ corresponding to the horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx (step S223) and stores it in the first storage area of ​​the storage circuit 223 shown in FIG. 17.

[0130] Next, the control device 200 determines whether the count value T2 of the second timer has passed a predetermined set value change time (second time threshold) T2th (e.g., 0.5 [sec]) (step S224). For example, if 10 [ms] is defined as 1 count, the set value change time (second time threshold) T2th is set to 50 counts (T2th=50). Note that the set value change time (second time threshold) T2th is not limited to 0.5 [sec] (=50).

[0131] When the count value T2 of the second timer is less than a predetermined set value change time T2th (T2 < T2th, step S224; No), until the count value T2 of the second timer becomes equal to or greater than the predetermined set value change time T2th (T2 ≧ T2th, step S224; Yes), the process of step S224 is repeatedly executed. When the count value T2 of the second timer becomes equal to or greater than the predetermined set value change time T2th (T2 ≧ T2th, step S224; Yes), the display control circuit 231 of the control device 200 reflects the horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx and the X-direction position display value x0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ, which are acquired in the above process and stored in the first storage area of the storage circuit 223, in the display control on the lighting control application screen 400 (step S225). Further, the transmission / reception circuit 225 of the control device 200 reads out the horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx stored in the first storage area, and transmits the read horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx as the first setting information (S1x = Sx) to the lighting device 1 (step S226).

[0132] The transmission / reception circuit 111 of the lighting device 1 stores the received first setting information as the second setting information in the storage circuit 113, reads out the second setting information stored in the storage circuit 113, and supplies a driving voltage corresponding to the second setting information to each driving electrode 10, 13 of each liquid crystal cell 2 of the optical element 100.

[0133] Returning to FIG. 21, the control device 200 determines whether the long tap state continues (step S210). If the long tap state does not continue (step S210; No), that is, if the user's finger leaves the screen or the touch detection position deviates from the first adjustment area TA1, the process returns to the lighting control process shown in FIG. 20 and shifts to the standby state (step S101). Thereby, the current horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx is determined in a state reflected in the control state of the horizontal diffusion degree of the lighting device 1.

[0134] If the long tap state continues (step S210; Yes), the process returns to step S205. Here, if the long tap state continues (step S210; Yes), the magnitude |ΔSx| of the horizontal spread factor difference value ΔSx is equal to or greater than the magnitude |LSCx| of the horizontal spread factor coarse adjustment scale set value LSCx (step S211; Yes), and the sign of the horizontal spread factor difference value ΔSx is “+ (positive value)” (step S221; Yes in FIG. 22), the processes from step S205 to step S210, including the above-mentioned horizontal spread factor coarse adjustment process (step S220, FIG. 22), are repeatedly executed every predetermined set value change time (second time threshold) T2th until the magnitude |ΔSx| of the horizontal spread factor difference value ΔSx becomes less than the magnitude |LSCx| of the horizontal spread factor coarse adjustment scale set value LSCx (step S211; No). As a result, the horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx is roughly adjusted in the direction of expansion by the horizontal diffusion degree coarse adjustment scale set value LSCx (first adjustment interval).

[0135] 22, if the sign of the horizontal diffusion degree difference value ΔSx is "- (negative value)" (step S221; No), this indicates that the adjustment direction of the horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx relative to the horizontal diffusion degree target value Sx' is a direction to reduce the horizontal diffusion degree of the lighting device 1. At this time, the control device 200 subtracts the horizontal diffusion degree coarse adjustment scale setting value LSCx (first adjustment interval) from the horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx (step S227) to update the horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx. In addition, the control device 200 calculates the X-direction position display value x0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ corresponding to the horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx (step S228), and stores it in the first storage area of ​​the storage circuit 223 shown in FIG. 17.

[0136] Next, the control device 200 determines whether the count value T2 of the second timer has passed a predetermined set value change time (second time threshold) T2th (for example, 0.5 [sec]) (step S229).

[0137] When the count value T2 of the second timer is less than a predetermined set value change time T2th (T2 < T2th, step S229; No), the process of step S229 is repeatedly executed until the count value T2 of the second timer becomes equal to or greater than the predetermined set value change time T2th (T2 ≧ T2th, step S229; Yes). When the count value T2 of the second timer becomes equal to or greater than the predetermined set value change time T2th (T2 ≧ T2th, step S229; Yes), the display control circuit 231 of the control device 200 reflects the horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx and the X-direction position display value x0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ, which are acquired in the above process and stored in the first storage area of the storage circuit 223, in the display control on the illumination control application screen 400 (step S230). Further, the transmission / reception circuit 225 of the control device 200 reads out the horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx stored in the first storage area, and transmits the read horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx as the first setting information (S1x = Sx) to the illumination device 1 (step S231).

[0138] The transmission / reception circuit 111 of the illumination device 1 stores the received first setting information in the storage circuit 113 as the second setting information, reads out the second setting information stored in the storage circuit 113, and supplies a driving voltage corresponding to the second setting information to each driving electrode 10, 13 of each liquid crystal cell 2 of the optical element 100.

[0139] Returning to FIG. 21, the control device 200 determines whether the long tap state continues (step S210). If the long tap state does not continue (step S210; No), that is, if the user's finger leaves the screen or the touch detection position deviates from the first adjustment area TA1, the process returns to the illumination control process shown in FIG. 20 and shifts to the standby state (step S101). Thereby, the current horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx is determined in a state reflected in the control state of the horizontal diffusion degree of the illumination device 1.

[0140] If the long tap state continues (step S210; Yes), the process returns to step S205. Here, if the long tap state continues (step S210; Yes), the magnitude |ΔSx| of the horizontal spread factor difference value ΔSx is equal to or greater than the magnitude |LSCx| of the horizontal spread factor coarse adjustment scale set value LSCx (step S211; Yes), and the sign of the horizontal spread factor difference value ΔSx is “− (negative value)” (step S221; No in FIG. 22), the processes from step S205 to step S210, including the above-mentioned horizontal spread factor coarse adjustment process (step S220, FIG. 22), are repeatedly executed every predetermined set value change time (second time threshold) T2th until the magnitude |ΔSx| of the horizontal spread factor difference value ΔSx becomes less than the magnitude |LSCx| of the horizontal spread factor coarse adjustment scale set value LSCx (step S211; No). As a result, the horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx is roughly adjusted in the direction of reduction by the horizontal diffusion degree coarse adjustment scale set value LSCx (first adjustment interval).

[0141] When the magnitude |ΔSx| of the horizontal diffusion degree difference value ΔSx is less than the magnitude |LSCx| of the horizontal diffusion degree coarse adjustment scale setting value LSCx (step S211; No), the control device 200 executes the horizontal diffusion degree fine adjustment process shown in Fig. 23. Fig. 23 is a flowchart showing an example of the horizontal diffusion degree fine adjustment process in the control device 200 of the lighting device 1 according to the first embodiment.

[0142] The control device 200 reads the sign of the horizontal spreadability difference value ΔSx and determines the adjustment direction of the horizontal spreadability display value Sx relative to the horizontal spreadability target value Sx'. Specifically, the control device 200 determines whether the sign of the horizontal spreadability difference value ΔSx is "+ (positive value)" (step S241).

[0143] When the sign of the horizontal divergence difference value ΔSx is “+(positive value)” (step S241; Yes), it indicates that the adjustment direction of the horizontal divergence display value Sx with respect to the horizontal divergence target value Sx’ is the direction to expand the horizontal divergence of the lighting device 1. At this time, the control device 200 adds the horizontal divergence fine adjustment scale setting value SSCx (second adjustment interval) to the horizontal divergence display value Sx (step S242) to update the horizontal divergence display value Sx. Further, the control device 200 calculates the X-direction position display value x0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ corresponding to the horizontal divergence display value Sx (step S243) and stores it in the first storage area of the storage circuit 223 shown in FIG. 17.

[0144] Subsequently, the control device 200 determines whether the count value T2 of the second timer has elapsed a predetermined setting value change time (second time threshold) T2th (for example, 0.5 [sec]) (step S244).

[0145] When the count value T2 of the second timer is less than the predetermined setting value change time T2th (T2 < T2th, step S244; No), the process of step S244 is repeatedly executed until the count value T2 of the second timer becomes equal to or greater than the predetermined setting value change time T2th (T2 ≧ T2th, step S244; Yes). When the count value T2 of the second timer becomes equal to or greater than the predetermined setting value change time T2th (T2 ≧ T2th, step S244; Yes), the display control circuit 231 of the control device 200 reflects the horizontal divergence display value Sx and the X-direction position display value x0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ, which are acquired in the above process and stored in the first storage area of the storage circuit 223, in the display control on the lighting control application screen 400 (step S245). Further, the transmission-reception circuit 225 of the control device 200 reads out the horizontal divergence display value Sx stored in the first storage area, and transmits the read horizontal divergence display value Sx as the first setting information (S1x = Sx) to the lighting device 1 (step S246).

[0146] The transmitter / receiver circuit 111 of the lighting device 1 stores the received first setting information as second setting information in the memory circuit 113, reads out the second setting information stored in the memory circuit 113, and supplies a driving voltage corresponding to the second setting information to each driving electrode 10, 13 of each liquid crystal cell 2 of the optical element 100.

[0147] 21, the control device 200 determines whether the long tap state continues (step S210). If the long tap state does not continue (step S210; No), that is, if the user's finger is removed from the screen or the touch detection position is outside the first adjustment area TA1, the process returns to the illumination control process shown in FIG. 20 and transitions to a standby state (step S101). As a result, the current horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx is fixed in a state where it is reflected in the control state of the horizontal diffusion degree of the illumination device 1.

[0148] If the long tap state continues (step S210; Yes), the process returns to step S205. Here, if the long tap state continues (step S210; Yes), the magnitude |ΔSx| of the horizontal spreadability difference value ΔSx is less than the magnitude |LSCx| of the horizontal spreadability coarse adjustment scale set value LSCx (step S211; No), and the sign of the horizontal spreadability difference value ΔSx is "+ (positive value)" (step S241; Yes in FIG. 23), the processes from step S205 to step S210, including the above-mentioned horizontal spreadability fine-adjustment process (step S240, FIG. 23), are repeatedly executed every predetermined set value change time (second time threshold) T2th. As a result, the horizontal spreadability display value Sx is fine-adjusted in the enlarging direction by the horizontal spreadability fine-adjustment scale set value SSCx (second adjustment interval).

[0149] Thereafter, when the magnitude |ΔSx| of the horizontal diffusion difference value ΔSx becomes less than the magnitude |SSCx| of the horizontal diffusion fine-tuning scale setting value SSCx (step S209; Yes) and the long tap state is released (step S210; No), the X-direction touch position detection value x'0 in the first adjustment area TA1 and the X-direction position display value x0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ approximately match (x'0 ≒ x0), and the current horizontal diffusion display value Sx is determined to be reflected in the control state of the horizontal diffusion of the lighting device 1.

[0150] 23, if the sign of the horizontal diffusion degree difference value ΔSx is "- (negative value)" (step S241; No), this indicates that the adjustment direction of the horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx relative to the horizontal diffusion degree target value Sx' is a direction to reduce the horizontal diffusion degree of the lighting device 1. At this time, the control device 200 subtracts the horizontal diffusion degree fine-adjustment scale setting value SSCx (second adjustment interval) from the horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx (step S247) to update the horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx. In addition, the control device 200 calculates the X-direction position display value x0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ corresponding to the horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx (step S248), and stores it in the first storage area of ​​the storage circuit 223 shown in FIG. 17.

[0151] Next, the control device 200 determines whether the count value T2 of the second timer has passed a predetermined set value change time (second time threshold) T2th (for example, 0.5 [sec]) (step S249).

[0152] When the count value T2 of the second timer is less than the predetermined setting value change time T2th (T2 < T2th, step S249; No), the process of step S249 is repeatedly executed until the count value T2 of the second timer becomes equal to or greater than the predetermined setting value change time T2th (T2 ≥ T2th, step S249; Yes). When the count value T2 of the second timer becomes equal to or greater than the predetermined setting value change time T2th (T2 ≥ T2th, step S249; Yes), the display control circuit 231 of the control device 200 reflects the horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx and the X-direction position display value x0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ, which are acquired in the above process and stored in the first storage area of the storage circuit 223, in the display control on the illumination control application screen 400 (step S250). Further, the transmission / reception circuit 225 of the control device 200 reads out the horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx stored in the first storage area, and transmits the read horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx as the first setting information (S1x = Sx) to the illumination device 1 (step S251).

[0153] The transmission / reception circuit 111 of the illumination device 1 stores the received first setting information in the storage circuit 113 as the second setting information, reads out the second setting information stored in the storage circuit  113, and supplies a driving voltage corresponding to the second setting information to each driving electrode 10, 13 of each liquid crystal cell 2 of the optical element 100.

[0154] Returning to FIG. 21, the control device 200 determines whether the long tap state continues (step S210). If the long tap state does not continue (step S210; No), that is, if the user's finger leaves the screen or the touch detection position deviates from the first adjustment area TA1, the process returns to the illumination control process shown in FIG. 20 and shifts to the standby state (step S101). Thereby, the current horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx is determined in a state reflected in the control state of the horizontal diffusion degree of the illumination device 1.

[0155] If the long tap state continues (step S210; Yes), the process returns to step S205. Here, if the long tap state continues (step S210; Yes), the magnitude |ΔSx| of the horizontal spreadability difference value ΔSx is less than the magnitude |LSCx| of the horizontal spreadability coarse adjustment scale set value LSCx (step S211; No), and the sign of the horizontal spreadability difference value ΔSx is "- (negative value)" (step S241; No in FIG. 23), the processes from step S205 to step S210, including the above-mentioned horizontal spreadability fine-adjustment process (step S240, FIG. 23), are repeatedly executed every predetermined set value change time (second time threshold) T2th. As a result, the horizontal spreadability display value Sx is fine-adjusted in the reduction direction by the horizontal spreadability fine-adjustment scale set value SSCx (second adjustment interval).

[0156] Thereafter, when the magnitude |ΔSx| of the horizontal diffusion difference value ΔSx becomes less than the magnitude |SSCx| of the horizontal diffusion fine-tuning scale setting value SSCx (step S209; Yes) and the long tap state is released (step S210; No), the X-direction touch position detection value x'0 in the first adjustment area TA1 and the X-direction position display value x0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ match or nearly match (x'0 ≒ x0), and the current horizontal diffusion display value Sx is determined to be reflected in the control state of the horizontal diffusion of the lighting device 1.

[0157] In the horizontal diffusion degree adjustment process according to the first embodiment described above, a horizontal diffusion degree coarse adjustment process (FIG. 22) for adjusting the horizontal diffusion degree using a horizontal diffusion degree coarse adjustment scale (first adjustment interval) or a horizontal diffusion degree fine adjustment process (FIG. 23) for adjusting the horizontal diffusion degree using a horizontal diffusion degree fine adjustment scale (second adjustment interval) is performed depending on the touch detection position in the X direction where the user maintains a long tap state within the first adjustment area TA1 of the lighting control application screen 400. Specifically, when the difference between the horizontal diffusion degree target value Sx′ and the horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx (the horizontal diffusion degree difference value ΔSx) is equal to or greater than the horizontal diffusion degree coarse adjustment scale (first adjustment interval) (step S211 in FIG. 21; Yes), the horizontal diffusion degree coarse adjustment process (FIG. 22) is performed. On the other hand, when the difference between the horizontal diffusion degree target value Sx′ and the horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx (the horizontal diffusion degree difference value ΔSx) is less than the horizontal diffusion degree coarse adjustment scale (first adjustment interval) (step S211 in FIG. 21; No), the horizontal diffusion degree fine adjustment process (FIG. 23) is performed. Furthermore, for example, when the difference between the horizontal diffusion degree target value Sx' and the horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx (horizontal diffusion degree difference value ΔSx) becomes less than the horizontal diffusion degree coarse adjustment scale (first adjustment interval) (step S211 in FIG. 21; No) as a result of the horizontal diffusion degree coarse adjustment process (FIG. 22), the process seamlessly transitions to the horizontal diffusion degree fine adjustment process (FIG. 23).

[0158] Furthermore, a seamless transition between the horizontal diffusion degree coarse adjustment process ( FIG. 22 ) and the horizontal diffusion degree fine adjustment process ( FIG. 23 ) occurs when the user performs a swipe operation (an operation of sliding a finger while touching the screen) while maintaining a long tap within the first adjustment area TA1 of the lighting control application screen 400. For example, after the horizontal diffusion degree fine adjustment process ( FIG. 23 ) is performed, if the difference (horizontal diffusion degree difference value ΔSx) between the horizontal diffusion degree target value Sx′ and the horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx becomes equal to or greater than the horizontal diffusion degree coarse adjustment scale (first adjustment interval) due to a swipe operation (step S211 in FIG. 21 ; Yes), a seamless transition occurs to the horizontal diffusion degree coarse adjustment process ( FIG. 22 ). Furthermore, for example, after the horizontal diffusion degree coarse adjustment process (FIG. 22) is executed, if a swipe operation causes the difference between the horizontal diffusion degree target value Sx′ and the horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx (horizontal diffusion degree difference value ΔSx) to become less than the horizontal diffusion degree coarse adjustment scale (first adjustment interval) (step S211 in FIG. 21; No), the process seamlessly transitions to the horizontal diffusion degree fine adjustment process (FIG. 23).

[0159] More specifically, when the magnitude |ΔSx| of the horizontal diffuseness difference value ΔSx is equal to or greater than the magnitude |LSCx| of the horizontal diffuseness coarse adjustment scale set value LSCx (|ΔSx| ≧ |LSCx|, step S211 in FIG. 21 ; Yes), the horizontal diffuseness display value Sx corresponding to the X-direction position display value x0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ is coarsely adjusted in a direction approaching the horizontal diffuseness target value Sx′ corresponding to the X-direction touch position detected value x′0, and when the magnitude |ΔSx| of the horizontal diffuseness difference value ΔSx is less than the magnitude |LSCx| of the horizontal diffuseness coarse adjustment scale set value LSCx (|ΔSx| < |LSCx|, step S211 in FIG. 21 ; No), the horizontal diffuseness display value Sx corresponding to the X-direction position display value x0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ is finely adjusted in a direction approaching the horizontal diffuseness target value Sx′ corresponding to the X-direction touch position detected value x′0.

[0160] 20, when a touch within the second adjustment area TA2 is detected (step S103; Yes), the process proceeds to the vertical diffusion degree adjustment process (step S300) shown in Fig. 24. Fig. 24 is a flowchart showing an example of the vertical diffusion degree adjustment process in the control device 200 of the lighting device 1 according to the first embodiment.

[0161] When the process proceeds to the vertical spread degree adjustment process shown in FIG. 24, the control device 200 resets the count value T1 of the first timer that counts the duration of the touch within the second adjustment area TA2 (T1=0, step S301).

[0162] Next, the control device 200 determines whether the count value T1 of the first timer has passed a predetermined long tap detection time (first time threshold) T1th (e.g., 2 [sec]) (step S302). For example, if 10 [ms] is defined as 1 count, the long tap detection time (first time threshold) T1th is set to 200 counts (T1th=200). Note that the long tap detection time (first time threshold) T1th is not limited to 2 [sec] (=200).

[0163] If the count value T1 of the first timer is less than the predetermined long tap detection time T1th (T1 < T1th, step S302; No), then, subsequently, the control device 200 determines whether the touch state within the second adjustment area TA2 continues (step S303). If the touch state within the second adjustment area TA2 does not continue (step S303; No), that is, if the user's finger leaves the screen or the touch detection position moves out of the second adjustment area TA2, the process returns to the illumination control process shown in FIG. 20, and without adjusting the control state of the vertical diffusion degree of the illumination device 1, it shifts to the standby state (step S101).

[0164] If the touch state within the second adjustment area TA2 continues (step S303; Yes), until the count value T1 of the first timer elapses the predetermined long tap detection time T1th (step S302; Yes), the processes of steps S302 to S303 are repeatedly executed.

[0165] When the count value T1 of the first timer elapses the predetermined long tap detection time T1th (step S302; Yes), the control device 200 determines that it is in the long tap state (step S304), resets the count value T2 of the second timer that counts the predetermined setting value change time (second time threshold) T2th (T2 = 0, step S305), detects the touch position in the Y direction within the second adjustment area TA2, stores it as the Y - direction touch position detection value y'0 in the first storage area of the storage circuit 223 shown in FIG. 17 (step S306), calculates the vertical diffusion degree target value Sy' corresponding to the Y - direction touch position detection value y'0 (step S307), and stores it in the first storage area shown in FIG. 17. Note that the Y - direction touch position detection value y'0 within the second adjustment area TA2 is at a position different from the Y - direction position display value y0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ.

[0166] Then, the control device 200 reads out the vertical spreadness display value Sy and the vertical spreadness target value Sy' from the first storage area, calculates the vertical spreadness difference value ΔSy (ΔSy=Sy'-Sy, step S308), and determines whether the magnitude |ΔSy| of the vertical spreadness difference value ΔSy is less than the magnitude |SSCy| of the vertical spreadness fine adjustment scale setting value SSCy (second adjustment interval) (step S309).

[0167] If the magnitude |ΔSy| of the vertical spreadness difference value ΔSy is equal to or greater than the magnitude |SSCy| of the vertical spreadness fine adjustment scale setting value SSCy (step S309; ​​No), then the control device 200 determines whether the magnitude |ΔSy| of the vertical spreadness difference value ΔSy is equal to or greater than the magnitude |LSCy| of the vertical spreadness coarse adjustment scale setting value LSCy (step S311).

[0168] If the magnitude |ΔSy| of the vertical diffuseness difference value ΔSy is equal to or larger than the magnitude |LSCy| of the vertical diffuseness coarse adjustment scale setting value LSCy (step S311; Yes), the controller 200 executes the vertical diffuseness coarse adjustment process shown in Fig. 25. Fig. 25 is a flowchart showing an example of the vertical diffuseness coarse adjustment process in the controller 200 of the lighting device 1 according to the first embodiment.

[0169] The control device 200 reads the sign of the vertical spread factor difference value ΔSy and determines the adjustment direction of the vertical spread factor display value Sy relative to the vertical spread factor target value Sy'. Specifically, the control device 200 determines whether the sign of the vertical spread factor difference value ΔSy is "+ (positive value)" (step S321).

[0170] When the sign of the vertical diffusion degree difference value ΔSy is “+(positive value)” (step S321; Yes), it indicates that the adjustment direction of the vertical diffusion degree display value Sy with respect to the vertical diffusion degree target value Sy’ is the direction to expand the vertical diffusion degree of the lighting device 1. At this time, the control device 200 adds the vertical diffusion degree coarse adjustment scale setting value LSCy (the first adjustment interval) to the vertical diffusion degree display value Sy (step S322) to update the vertical diffusion degree display value Sy. Further, the control device 200 calculates the Y-direction position display value y0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ corresponding to the vertical diffusion degree display value Sy (step S323) and stores it in the first storage area of the storage circuit 223 shown in FIG. 17.

[0171] Subsequently, the control device 200 determines whether the count value T2 of the second timer has elapsed a predetermined set value change time (the second time threshold) T2th (for example, 0.5 [sec]) (step S324). The set value change time (the second time threshold) T2th is set to 50 counts (T2th = 50) when, for example, 10 [ms] is one count. Note that the set value change time (the second time threshold) T2th is not limited to [0.5] [sec] (= 50).

[0172] When the count value T2 of the second timer is less than the predetermined set value change time T2th (T2 < T2th, step S324; No), the process of step S324 is repeatedly executed until the count value T2 of the second timer becomes equal to or greater than the predetermined set value change time T2th (T2 ≧ T2th, step S324; Yes). When the count value T2 of the second timer becomes equal to or greater than the predetermined set value change time T2th (T2 ≧ T2th, step S324; Yes), the display control circuit 231 of the control device 200 reflects the vertical diffusion degree display value Sy and the Y-direction position display value y0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ, which are acquired in the above process and stored in the first storage area of the storage circuit 223, in the display control on the lighting control application screen 400 (step S325). Further, the transmission and reception circuit 225 of the control device 200 reads the vertical diffusion degree display value Sy stored in the first storage area, and transmits the read vertical diffusion degree display value Sy as the first setting information (S1y = Sy) to the lighting device 1 (step S326).

[0173] The transmitter / receiver circuit 111 of the lighting device 1 stores the received first setting information as second setting information in the memory circuit 113, reads out the second setting information stored in the memory circuit 113, and supplies a driving voltage corresponding to the second setting information to each driving electrode 10, 13 of each liquid crystal cell 2 of the optical element 100.

[0174] 24, the control device 200 determines whether the long tap state continues (step S310). If the long tap state does not continue (step S310; No), that is, if the user's finger is removed from the screen or the touch detection position is outside the second adjustment area TA2, the process returns to the illumination control process shown in FIG. 20 and transitions to a standby state (step S101). As a result, the current vertical diffusion degree display value Sy is fixed in a state where it is reflected in the control state of the vertical diffusion degree of the illumination device 1.

[0175] If the long tap state continues (step S310; Yes), the process returns to step S305. Here, if the long tap state continues (step S310; Yes), the magnitude |ΔSy| of the vertical spread factor difference value ΔSy is equal to or greater than the magnitude |LSCy| of the vertical spread factor coarse adjustment scale setting value LSCy (step S311; Yes), and the sign of the vertical spread factor difference value ΔSy is “+ (positive value)” (step S321; Yes), the processes from step S305 to step S310, including the above-mentioned vertical spread factor coarse adjustment process (step S320, FIG. 25), are repeatedly executed every predetermined set value change time (second time threshold) T2th until the magnitude |ΔSy| of the vertical spread factor difference value ΔSy becomes less than the magnitude |LSCy| of the vertical spread factor coarse adjustment scale setting value LSCy (step S311; No). As a result, the vertical diffusion degree display value Sy is roughly adjusted in the enlarging direction by the vertical diffusion degree coarse adjustment scale set value LSCy (first adjustment interval).

[0176] Returning to FIG. 25, when the sign of the vertical diffusion degree difference value ΔSy is "-(negative value)" (step S321; No), it indicates that the adjustment direction of the vertical diffusion degree display value Sy with respect to the vertical diffusion degree target value Sy' is the direction to reduce the vertical diffusion degree of the lighting device 1. At this time, the control device 200 subtracts the vertical diffusion degree rough adjustment scale setting value LSCy (first adjustment interval) from the vertical diffusion degree display value Sy (step S327) to update the vertical diffusion degree display value Sy. Further, the control device 200 calculates the Y-direction position display value y0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ corresponding to the vertical diffusion degree display value Sy (step S328) and stores it in the first storage area of the storage circuit 223 shown in FIG. 17.

[0177] Subsequently, the control device 200 determines whether the count value T2 of the second timer has elapsed a predetermined set value change time (second time threshold) T2th (for example, 0.5 [sec]) (step S329).

[0178] When the count value T2 of the second timer is less than the predetermined set value change time T2th (T2 < T2th, step S329; No), the process of step S329 is repeatedly executed until the count value T2 of the second timer becomes equal to or greater than the predetermined set value change time T2th (T2 ≧ T2th, step S329; Yes). When the count value T2 of the second timer becomes equal to or greater than the predetermined set value change time T2th (T2 ≧ T2th, step S329; Yes), the display control circuit 231 of the control device 200 reflects the vertical diffusion degree display value Sy and the Y-direction position display value y0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ, which are obtained in the above process and stored in the first storage area of the storage circuit 223, in the display control on the lighting control application screen 400 (step S330). Further, the transmission / reception circuit 225 of the control device 200 reads the vertical diffusion degree display value Sy stored in the first storage area, uses the read vertical diffusion degree display value Sy as the first setting information (S1y = Sy), and transmits the first setting information to the lighting device 1 (step S331).

[0179] The transmitter / receiver circuit 111 of the lighting device 1 stores the received first setting information as second setting information in the memory circuit 113, reads out the second setting information stored in the memory circuit 113, and supplies a driving voltage corresponding to the second setting information to each driving electrode 10, 13 of each liquid crystal cell 2 of the optical element 100.

[0180] 24, the control device 200 determines whether the long tap state continues (step S310). If the long tap state does not continue (step S310; No), that is, if the user's finger is removed from the screen or the touch detection position is outside the second adjustment area TA2, the process returns to the illumination control process shown in FIG. 20 and transitions to a standby state (step S101). As a result, the current vertical diffusion degree display value Sy is fixed in a state where it is reflected in the control state of the vertical diffusion degree of the illumination device 1.

[0181] If the long tap state continues (step S310; Yes), the process returns to step S305. Here, if the long tap state continues (step S310; Yes), the magnitude |ΔSy| of the vertical spread factor difference value ΔSy is equal to or greater than the magnitude |LSCy| of the vertical spread factor coarse adjustment scale setting value LSCy (step S311; Yes), and the sign of the vertical spread factor difference value ΔSy is “− (negative value)” (step S321; No in FIG. 25), the processes from step S305 to step S310, including the vertical spread factor coarse adjustment process described above (step S320, FIG. 25), are repeatedly executed every predetermined set value change time (second time threshold) T2th until the magnitude |ΔSy| of the vertical spread factor difference value ΔSy becomes less than the magnitude |LSCy| of the vertical spread factor coarse adjustment scale setting value LSCy (step S311; No). As a result, the vertical diffusion degree display value Sy is roughly adjusted in the direction of reduction by the vertical diffusion degree coarse adjustment scale set value LSCy (first adjustment interval).

[0182] When the magnitude |ΔSy| of the vertical diffuseness difference value ΔSy is less than the magnitude |LSCy| of the vertical diffuseness coarse adjustment scale setting value LSCy (step S311; No), the control device 200 executes a vertical diffuseness fine-adjustment process shown in Fig. 26. Fig. 26 is a flowchart showing an example of the vertical diffuseness fine-adjustment process in the control device 200 of the lighting device 1 according to the first embodiment.

[0183] The control device 200 reads the sign of the vertical spread factor difference value ΔSy and determines the adjustment direction of the vertical spread factor display value Sy relative to the vertical spread factor target value Sy'. Specifically, the control device 200 determines whether the sign of the vertical spread factor difference value ΔSy is "+ (positive value)" (step S341).

[0184] If the sign of the vertical diffuseness difference value ΔSy is "+ (positive value)" (step S341; Yes), this indicates that the adjustment direction of the vertical diffuseness display value Sy with respect to the target vertical diffuseness value Sy' is a direction in which the vertical diffuseness of the lighting device 1 is increased. At this time, the control device 200 adds the vertical diffuseness fine-adjustment scale setting value SSCy (second adjustment interval) to the vertical diffuseness display value Sy (step S342) to update the vertical diffuseness display value Sy. In addition, the control device 200 calculates the Y-direction position display value y0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ corresponding to the vertical diffuseness display value Sy (step S343), and stores it in the first storage area of ​​the storage circuit 223 shown in FIG. 17.

[0185] Next, the control device 200 determines whether the count value T2 of the second timer has passed a predetermined set value change time (second time threshold) T2th (for example, 0.5 [sec]) (step S344).

[0186] When the count value T2 of the second timer is less than a predetermined set value change time T2th (T2 < T2th, step S344; No), the process of step S344 is repeatedly executed until the count value T2 of the second timer becomes equal to or greater than the predetermined set value change time T2th (T2 ≥ T2th, step S344; Yes). When the count value T2 of the second timer becomes equal to or greater than the predetermined set value change time T2th (T2 ≥ T2th, step S344; Yes), the display control circuit 231 of the control device 200 reflects the vertical diffusivity display value Sy and the Y-direction position display value y0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ, which are acquired in the above process and stored in the first storage area of the storage circuit 223, in the display control on the illumination control application screen 400 (step S345). Further, the transmission / reception circuit 225 of the control device 200 reads out the vertical diffusivity display value Sy stored in the first storage area, sets the read vertical diffusivity display value Sy as the first setting information (S1y = Sy), and transmits the first setting information to the lighting device 1 (step S346).

[0187] The transmission / reception circuit 111 of the lighting device 1 stores the received first setting information in the storage circuit 113 as the second setting information, reads out the second setting information stored in the storage circuit 113, and supplies a driving voltage corresponding to the second setting information to each driving electrode 10, 13 of each liquid crystal cell 2 of the optical element 100.

[0188] Returning to FIG. 24, the control device 200 determines whether the long tap state continues (step S310). If the long tap state does not continue (step S310; No), that is, if the user's finger leaves the screen or the touch detection position deviates from the second adjustment area TA2, the process returns to the illumination control process shown in FIG. 20 and shifts to the standby state (step S101). As a result, the current vertical diffusivity display value Sy is determined in a state where it is reflected in the control state of the vertical diffusivity of the lighting device 1.

[0189] If the long tap state continues (step S310; Yes), the process returns to step S305. Here, if the long tap state continues (step S310; Yes), the magnitude |ΔSy| of the vertical spreadability difference value ΔSy is less than the magnitude |LSCy| of the vertical spreadability coarse-adjustment scale set value LSCy (step S311; No), and the sign of the vertical spreadability difference value ΔSy is "+ (positive value)" (step S341 in FIG. 26; Yes), the processes from step S305 to step S310, including the above-mentioned vertical spreadability fine-adjustment process (step S340, FIG. 26), are repeatedly executed every predetermined set value change time (second time threshold) T2th. As a result, the vertical spreadability display value Sy is fine-adjusted in the enlarging direction by the vertical spreadability fine-adjustment scale set value SSCy (second adjustment interval).

[0190] Thereafter, when the magnitude |ΔSy| of the vertical diffusion difference value ΔSy becomes less than the magnitude |SSCy| of the vertical diffusion fine-tuning scale setting value SSCy (step S309; ​​Yes) and the long tap state is released (step S310; No), the Y-direction touch position detection value y'0 in the second adjustment area TA2 and the Y-direction position display value y0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ approximately match (y'0 ≒ y0), and the current vertical diffusion display value Sy is determined to be reflected in the control state of the vertical diffusion of the lighting device 1.

[0191] 26, if the sign of the vertical diffuseness difference value ΔSy is "- (negative value)" (step S341; No), this indicates that the adjustment direction of the vertical diffuseness display value Sy with respect to the target vertical diffuseness value Sy' is a direction to reduce the vertical diffuseness of the lighting device 1. In this case, the control device 200 subtracts the vertical diffuseness fine-adjustment scale setting value SSCy (second adjustment interval) from the vertical diffuseness display value Sy (step S347) to update the vertical diffuseness display value Sy. In addition, the control device 200 calculates the Y-direction position display value y0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ corresponding to the vertical diffuseness display value Sy (step S348), and stores the calculated value in the first storage area of ​​the storage circuit 223 shown in FIG. 17.

[0192] Subsequently, the control device 200 determines whether the count value T2 of the second timer has elapsed a predetermined setting value change time (second time threshold) T2th (for example, 0.5 [sec]) (step S349).

[0193] When the count value T2 of the second timer is less than the predetermined setting value change time T2th (T2 < T2th, step S349; No), the process of step S349 is repeatedly executed until the count value T2 of the second timer becomes equal to or greater than the predetermined setting value change time T2th (T2 ≧ T2th, step S349; Yes). When the count value T2 of the second timer becomes equal to or greater than the predetermined setting value change time T2th (T2 ≧ T2th, step S349; Yes), the display control circuit 231 of the control device 200 reflects the vertical diffusion degree display value Sy and the Y-direction position display value y0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ, which are acquired in the above process and stored in the first storage area of the storage circuit 223, in the display control on the lighting control application screen 400 (step S350). Further, the transmission / reception circuit 225 of the control device 200 reads out the vertical diffusion degree display value Sy stored in the first storage area, uses the read vertical diffusion degree display value Sy as the first setting information (S1y = Sy), and transmits the first setting information to the lighting device 1 (step S351).

[0194] The transmission / reception circuit 111 of the lighting device 1 stores the received first setting information in the storage circuit 113 as the second setting information, reads out the second setting information stored in the storage circuit 113, and supplies a drive voltage corresponding to the second setting information to each drive electrode 10, 13 of each liquid crystal cell 2 of the optical element 100.

[0195] Returning to FIG. 24, the control device 200 determines whether the long tap state continues (step S310). If the long tap state does not continue (step S310; No), that is, if the user's finger has left the screen or the touch detection position has deviated from the second adjustment area TA2, the process returns to the lighting control process shown in FIG. 20 and shifts to the standby state (step S101). Thereby, the current vertical diffusion degree display value Sy is determined in a state where it is reflected in the control state of the vertical diffusion degree of the lighting device 1.

[0196] If the long tap state continues (step S310; Yes), the process returns to step S305. Here, if the long tap state continues (step S310; Yes), the magnitude |ΔSy| of the vertical spreadability difference value ΔSy is less than the magnitude |LSCy| of the vertical spreadability coarse-adjustment scale set value LSCy (step S311; No), and the sign of the vertical spreadability difference value ΔSy is "- (negative value)" (step S341; No in FIG. 26), the processes from step S305 to step S310, including the above-mentioned vertical spreadability fine-adjustment process (step S340, FIG. 26), are repeatedly executed every predetermined set value change time (second time threshold) T2th. As a result, the vertical spreadability display value Sy is fine-adjusted in the reduction direction by the vertical spreadability fine-adjustment scale set value SSCy (second adjustment interval).

[0197] Thereafter, when the magnitude |ΔSy| of the vertical diffusion difference value ΔSy becomes less than the magnitude |SSCy| of the vertical diffusion fine-tuning scale setting value SSCy (step S309; ​​Yes) and the long tap state is released (step S310; No), the Y-direction touch position detection value y'0 in the second adjustment area TA2 and the Y-direction position display value y0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ match or nearly match (y'0 ≒ y0), and the current vertical diffusion display value Sy is determined to be reflected in the control state of the vertical diffusion of the lighting device 1.

[0198] By the vertical diffusion degree adjustment process according to the first embodiment described above, a vertical diffusion degree coarse adjustment process (FIG. 25) for adjusting the vertical diffusion degree on a vertical diffusion degree coarse adjustment scale (first adjustment interval) or a vertical diffusion degree fine adjustment process (FIG. 26) for adjusting the vertical diffusion degree on a vertical diffusion degree fine adjustment scale (second adjustment interval) is performed according to the touch detection position in the Y direction where the user maintains a long tap state within the second adjustment area TA2 of the lighting control application screen 400. Specifically, when the difference between the vertical diffusion degree target value Sy′ and the vertical diffusion degree display value Sy (vertical diffusion degree difference value ΔSy) is equal to or greater than the vertical diffusion degree coarse adjustment scale (first adjustment interval) (step S311 in FIG. 24; Yes), the vertical diffusion degree coarse adjustment process (FIG. 25) is performed. On the other hand, when the difference between the vertical diffusion degree target value Sy′ and the vertical diffusion degree display value Sy (vertical diffusion degree difference value ΔSy) is less than the vertical diffusion degree coarse adjustment scale (first adjustment interval) (step S311 in FIG. 24; No), the vertical diffusion degree fine adjustment process (FIG. 26) is performed. Furthermore, for example, when the difference between the vertical diffusion degree target value Sy' and the vertical diffusion degree display value Sy (vertical diffusion degree difference value ΔSy) becomes less than the vertical diffusion degree coarse adjustment scale (first adjustment interval) due to the vertical diffusion degree coarse adjustment process (FIG. 25) (step S311 in FIG. 24; No), the process seamlessly transitions to the vertical diffusion degree fine adjustment process (FIG. 26).

[0199] Furthermore, a seamless transition between the vertical diffusion degree coarse adjustment process ( FIG. 25 ) and the vertical diffusion degree fine adjustment process ( FIG. 26 ) occurs when the user performs a swipe operation while maintaining a long tap in the second adjustment area TA2 of the lighting control application screen 400. For example, after the vertical diffusion degree fine adjustment process ( FIG. 26 ) is performed, if a swipe operation causes the difference between the vertical diffusion degree target value Sy′ and the vertical diffusion degree display value Sy (vertical diffusion degree difference value ΔSy) to become equal to or larger than the vertical diffusion degree coarse adjustment scale (first adjustment interval) (step S311 in FIG. 24 ; Yes), a seamless transition occurs to the vertical diffusion degree coarse adjustment process ( FIG. 25 ). Furthermore, for example, after the vertical diffusion degree coarse adjustment process (FIG. 25) is executed, if a swipe operation causes the difference between the vertical diffusion degree target value Sy′ and the vertical diffusion degree display value Sy (vertical diffusion degree difference value ΔSy) to become less than the vertical diffusion degree coarse adjustment scale (first adjustment interval) (step S311 in FIG. 24; No), the process seamlessly transitions to the vertical diffusion degree fine adjustment process (FIG. 26).

[0200] More specifically, when the magnitude |ΔSy| of the vertical diffuseness difference value ΔSy is equal to or greater than the magnitude |LSCy| of the vertical diffuseness coarse adjustment scale set value LSCy (|ΔSy| ≥ |LSCy|, step S311 in FIG. 24 ; Yes), the vertical diffuseness display value Sy corresponding to the Y-direction position display value y0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ is coarsely adjusted in a direction approaching the vertical diffuseness target value Sy′ corresponding to the Y-direction touch position detection value y′0. On the other hand, when the magnitude |ΔSy| of the vertical diffuseness difference value ΔSy is less than the magnitude |LSCy| of the vertical diffuseness coarse adjustment scale set value LSCy (|ΔSy| < |LSCy|, step S311 in FIG. 24 ; No), the vertical diffuseness display value Sy corresponding to the Y-direction position display value y0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ is finely adjusted in a direction approaching the vertical diffuseness target value Sy′ corresponding to the Y-direction touch position detection value y′0.

[0201] Here, a specific example of the operation on the lighting control app screen 400 of the control device 200 according to embodiment 1 will be described. Figures 27A, 27B, 27C, 27D, 27E, 27F, 27G, and 27H are diagrams showing a specific example of the operation on the lighting control app screen 400 of the control device 200 according to embodiment 1. Here, the operation of the horizontal diffusion degree adjustment process will be described as an example.

[0202] Fig. 27A shows an example in which the horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx and the vertical diffusion degree display value Sy are each 70[%] in the standby state (step S101) of Fig. 20. Fig. 27B shows an example in which, in the standby state shown in Fig. 27A, a touch within the first adjustment area TA1 is detected (step S102 of Fig. 20; Yes), the process proceeds to the horizontal diffusion degree adjustment process shown in Fig. 21, a long tap state is entered (step S204), and an X-direction touch position detection value x'0 corresponding to a horizontal diffusion degree target value Sx'=20[%] is detected within the first adjustment area TA1. At this time, the horizontal diffuseness difference value ΔSx becomes −50[%] (ΔSx=Sx′(=20[%])−Sx(=70[%])=−50[%]), the magnitude |ΔSx(=−50[%])| of the horizontal diffuseness difference value ΔSx becomes equal to or larger than the magnitude |LSCx(=20[%])| of the horizontal diffuseness coarse adjustment scale setting value LSCx (|ΔSx|≧|LSCx|, step S211 in FIG. 21; Yes), and the sign of the horizontal diffuseness difference value ΔSx(=−50[%]) becomes “− (negative value)” (step S221 in FIG. 22; No). As a result, the horizontal diffusion of the lighting device 1 is roughly adjusted in the direction of reducing it (the direction of the arrow shown in FIG. 27B) until the magnitude |ΔSx| of the horizontal diffusion difference value ΔSx becomes less than the magnitude |LSCx(=20[%])| of the horizontal diffusion coarse adjustment scale setting value LSCx (step S211 in FIG. 21; No).

[0203] Specifically, first, in the first round of processing from step S205 to step S210 of the horizontal diffusion degree adjustment process shown in FIG. 21, when the count value T2 of the second timer reaches a predetermined set value change time (second time threshold) T2th (e.g., 0.5 [sec]) (step S229 in FIG. 22; Yes), the X-direction position display value x0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ reaches a position corresponding to the horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx=50 [%], as shown in FIG. 27C, and in the subsequent second round of processing, the X-direction position display value x0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ reaches a position corresponding to the horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx=30 [%], as shown in FIG. 27D.

[0204] Then, in the third round of processing, when the horizontal diffuseness difference value ΔSx becomes −10% (ΔSx=Sx′(=20%)−Sx(=30%)=−10%), and the magnitude |ΔSx(=−10%)| of the horizontal diffuseness difference value ΔSx becomes less than the magnitude |LSCx(=20%)| of the horizontal diffuseness coarse adjustment scale setting value LSCx (|ΔSx|<|LSCx|, step S211 in FIG. 21 ; No), as shown in FIG. 27E, the horizontal diffuseness of the lighting device 1 is fine-adjusted in the direction of reduction (the direction of the arrow shown in FIG. 27B ) until the magnitude |ΔSx| of the horizontal diffuseness difference value ΔSx becomes less than the magnitude |SSCx(=1%)| of the horizontal diffuseness fine adjustment scale setting value SSCx (step S209 in FIG. 21 ; Yes). As a result, the X-direction touch position detection value x'0 corresponding to the horizontal diffuseness target value Sx' and the X-direction position display value x0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ become substantially the same (x'0≈x0).

[0205] 27F shows an example in which the user subsequently performs a swipe operation within the first adjustment area TA1 while maintaining the long tap state (step S210 in FIG. 21; Yes). More specifically, FIG. 27F shows an example in which the swipe operation updates the X-direction touch position detection value x′0 within the first adjustment area TA1, the magnitude |ΔSx| of the horizontal spreadability difference value ΔSx becomes equal to or greater than the magnitude |LSCx(=20[%])| of the horizontal spreadability coarse adjustment scale setting value LSCx (|ΔSx|≧|LSCx|, step S211 in FIG. 21; Yes), and the X-direction touch position detection value x′0 corresponding to the horizontal spreadability target value Sx′=50[%] is detected within the first adjustment area TA1 (the swipe operation by the user stops at the X-direction touch position detection value x′0). At this time, the horizontal diffuseness difference value ΔSx becomes 30[%] (ΔSx=Sx′(=50[%])−Sx(=20[%])=30[%]), the magnitude |ΔSx(=30[%])| of the horizontal diffuseness difference value ΔSx becomes equal to or larger than the magnitude |LSCx(=20[%])| of the horizontal diffuseness coarse adjustment scale setting value LSCx (|ΔSx|≧|LSCx|, step S211 in FIG. 21; Yes), and the sign of the horizontal diffuseness difference value ΔSx(=30[%]) becomes “+ (positive value)” (step S221 in FIG. 22; Yes). As a result, the horizontal diffusion of the lighting device 1 is roughly adjusted in the direction of increasing it (the direction of the arrow shown in FIG. 27F) until the magnitude |ΔSx| of the horizontal diffusion difference value ΔSx becomes less than the magnitude |LSCx(=20[%])| of the horizontal diffusion coarse adjustment scale setting value LSCx (step S211 in FIG. 21; No).

[0206] Specifically, first, in the first cycle of the horizontal diffusion degree adjustment process from step S205 to step S210 shown in FIG. 21, when the count value T2 of the second timer reaches a predetermined set value change time (second time threshold) T2th (e.g., 0.5 [sec]) (step S244 in FIG. 21; Yes), the X-direction position display value x0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ reaches a position corresponding to the horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx=40 [%], as shown in FIG. 27G.

[0207] Then, in the second round of processing, when the horizontal diffusion degree difference value ΔSx becomes 10[%] (ΔSx=Sx′(=50[%])−Sx(=40[%])=10[%]), and the magnitude |ΔSx(=10[%])| of the horizontal diffusion degree difference value ΔSx becomes less than the magnitude |LSCx(=20[%])| of the horizontal diffusion degree coarse adjustment scale setting value LSCx (|ΔSx|<|LSCx|), the horizontal diffusion degree of the lighting device 1 is finely adjusted in the direction of enlarging it (the direction of the arrow shown in FIG. 27F). In FIG. 27H, 21 , the user releases his / her finger from the screen when the X-direction position display value x0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ reaches a position corresponding to the horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx=42[%] before the X-direction touch position detection value x'0 corresponding to the value Sx' becomes substantially equal to the X-direction touch position detection value x'0. This causes the current horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx=42[%] to be fixed as it is reflected in the control state of the horizontal diffusion degree of the lighting device 1.

[0208] Note that, if the long tap state is maintained at a position (X-direction touch position detection value x'0) corresponding to the horizontal diffuseness target value Sx'=50[%] until the magnitude |ΔSx| of the horizontal diffuseness difference value ΔSx becomes less than the magnitude |SSCx(=1[%])| of the horizontal diffuseness fine-adjustment scale setting value SSCx (step S209 in FIG. 21 ; Yes), the horizontal diffuseness of the lighting device 1 is fine-adjusted in the direction of enlarging it (the direction of the arrow shown in FIG. 27F ) until the magnitude |ΔSx| of the horizontal diffuseness difference value ΔSx becomes less than the magnitude |SSCx(=1[%])| of the horizontal diffuseness fine-adjustment scale setting value SSCx (step S209 in FIG. 21 ; Yes). As a result, the X-direction touch position detection value x'0 corresponding to the horizontal diffuseness target value Sx'(=50[%]) and the X-direction position display value x0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ become identical or substantially identical (x'0 ≈ x0). In this state, when the user removes his / her finger from the screen (step S210 in FIG. 21; No), the current horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx=50[%] is confirmed as being reflected in the control state of the horizontal diffusion degree of the lighting device 1.

[0209] In the control device 200 of the lighting device 1 according to the first embodiment described above, when the horizontal diffusivity difference value ΔSx, which is the difference between the horizontal diffusivity target value Sx′ defined by the X-direction touch position detection value x′0 in the first adjustment area TA1 and the horizontal diffusivity display value Sx, is equal to or greater than the horizontal diffusivity coarse adjustment scale setting value LSCx (first adjustment interval), the horizontal diffusivity display value Sx is adjusted by the horizontal diffusivity coarse adjustment scale setting value LSCx (first adjustment interval), and when the horizontal diffusivity difference value ΔSx is less than the horizontal diffusivity coarse adjustment scale setting value LSCx (first adjustment interval), the horizontal diffusivity display value Sx is adjusted by the horizontal diffusivity fine adjustment scale setting value SSCx (second adjustment interval) which is narrower than the horizontal diffusivity coarse adjustment scale setting value LSCx (first adjustment interval).

[0210] Furthermore, when the duration T1 of the touch within the first adjustment area TA1 exceeds a predetermined long tap detection time (first time threshold) T1th, detection of the X-direction touch position detection value x'0 that defines the horizontal diffusion degree target value Sx' is started, and while the touch within the first adjustment area TA1 continues, the horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx is adjusted every predetermined setting value change time (second time threshold) T2th.

[0211] As a result, for example, when adjustment is being made on the horizontal diffusion degree fine-adjustment scale (second adjustment interval) at each setting value change time (second time threshold) T2th, by the user removing his / her finger from the screen at the time when the desired horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx is obtained, the current horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx is fixed in a state that reflects the control state of the horizontal diffusion degree of the lighting device 1. This makes it easy to obtain the desired horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx and to fine-adjust the horizontal diffusion degree display value Sx.

[0212] Furthermore, in the control device 200 of the lighting device 1 according to the first embodiment described above, when the vertical diffuseness difference value ΔSy, which is the difference between the vertical diffuseness target value Sy′ defined by the Y-direction touch position detection value y′0 in the second adjustment area TA2 and the vertical diffuseness display value Sy, is equal to or greater than the vertical diffuseness coarse adjustment scale setting value LSCy (first adjustment interval), the vertical diffuseness display value Sy is adjusted by the vertical diffuseness coarse adjustment scale setting value LSCy (first adjustment interval), and when the vertical diffuseness difference value ΔSy is less than the vertical diffuseness coarse adjustment scale setting value LSCy (first adjustment interval), the vertical diffuseness display value Sy is adjusted by the vertical diffuseness fine adjustment scale setting value SSCy (second adjustment interval) which is narrower than the vertical diffuseness coarse adjustment scale setting value LSCy (first adjustment interval).

[0213] Furthermore, when the duration T1 of the touch within the second adjustment area TA2 exceeds a predetermined long tap detection time (first time threshold) T1th, detection of the Y-direction touch position detection value y'0 that defines the vertical diffusion degree target value Sy' is started, and when the touch within the second adjustment area TA2 continues, the vertical diffusion degree display value Sy is adjusted every predetermined setting value change time (second time threshold) T2th.

[0214] As a result, for example, when adjustment is being made on the vertical diffusion degree fine-adjustment scale (second adjustment interval) at each setting value change time (second time threshold) T2th, by the user removing his / her finger from the screen at the time when the desired vertical diffusion degree display value Sy is obtained, the current vertical diffusion degree display value Sy is fixed in a state that reflects the control state of the horizontal diffusion degree of the lighting device 1. This makes it easy to obtain the desired vertical diffusion degree display value Sy and facilitates fine adjustment of the vertical diffusion degree display value Sy.

[0215] (Embodiment 2) The following describes the configuration and operation for controlling the light diffusion degree of the lighting device 1a in the lighting system control device 200a according to embodiment 2. Here, the configuration and operation different from those in embodiment 1 will be described, and overlapping explanations may be omitted.

[0216] FIG. 28 is a diagram illustrating an example of a control block configuration of a control device 200a according to the second embodiment.

[0217] The storage area of ​​the storage circuitry 223a according to the second embodiment stores various parameter values ​​and various setting values ​​required for the operation of a lighting control application according to the second embodiment, which will be described later. The various parameter values ​​and various setting values ​​required for the operation of the lighting control application according to the second embodiment will be described later.

[0218] The transmission / reception circuit 225a transmits and receives setting information to and from the lighting device 1a. Specifically, the transmission / reception circuit 225a transmits the light diffusion degree S1 to the lighting device 1a as first setting information in each process described below. The transmission / reception circuit 225a also receives second light diffusion degree information (light diffusion degree S2) transmitted from the lighting device 1a.

[0219] FIG. 29 is a diagram illustrating an example of a control block configuration of the illumination device 1a according to the second embodiment.

[0220] The transmission / reception circuit 111a transmits and receives light diffusion degree information to and from the control device 200a. Specifically, the transmission / reception circuit 111a receives first light diffusion degree information (light diffusion degree S1) transmitted from the control device 200a. The transmission / reception circuit 111a also transmits the light diffusion degree S2 stored in the storage circuit 113a to the control device 200a as second light diffusion degree information.

[0221] In the present disclosure, when the lighting device 1a is started up, the transmission / reception circuit 111a transmits the light diffusion degree S2 stored in the memory circuit 113a to the control device 200a as second light diffusion degree information, and stores the first light diffusion degree information (light diffusion degree S1) transmitted from the control device 200a by various processes of the control device 200a, which will be described later, in the memory circuit 113a as new light diffusion degree S2. That is, when the first light diffusion degree information is transmitted from the control device 200a to the lighting device 1a, the second light diffusion degree information is updated to the first light diffusion degree information. Note that the lighting device 1a does not initially store the second light diffusion degree information. In this case, the second light diffusion degree information is stored when the first light diffusion degree information is transmitted from the control device 200a.

[0222] Hereinafter, specific examples of the processes and display modes in the lighting control application that runs on the control device 200a according to the second embodiment will be described in detail.

[0223] FIG. 30 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of a display mode of a lighting control application screen 400A of the control device 200a according to the second embodiment.

[0224] When the lighting control app is launched, a lighting control app screen 400A (adjustment screen) shown in Fig. 30 is displayed, and a pairing process is executed between the control device 200a and a lighting device 1a that has been registered in advance as a device to be controlled by the control device 200a. Note that a pairing button (not shown) may be displayed on the lighting control app screen 400A, and the pairing process may be executed between the control device 200a and the lighting device 1a when the user touches the pairing button. Alternatively, when the lighting control app is launched for the first time, for example, a lighting device 1a that is running in a space that can be paired may be registered as a device to be controlled.

[0225] 30, the X direction is defined to correspond to the Dx direction (first direction) in the light diffusion control of the lighting device 1a, and the Y direction is defined to correspond to the Dy direction (second direction) in the light diffusion control of the lighting device 1a. Furthermore, the lighting control application screen 400A defines an XY plane with a predetermined position on the display area DA as the origin O(0,0).

[0226] The display panel 20 is provided with a display area DA that overlaps the detection area FA of the touch sensor 30 in a plan view. In the example shown in Fig. 30, a substantially circular light distribution shape object OBJ is displayed with its center point at the origin O(0,0) of the XY plane on the lighting control application screen 400A.

[0227] In the configuration according to the second embodiment, the shape of the light distribution shape object OBJ on the illumination control application screen 400A changes to a concentric circle shape according to the degree of diffusion.

[0228] In the second embodiment, as shown in Fig. 30, an adjustment area TA is provided as an area where a touch detection position for setting the diffusion degree can be acquired. The adjustment area TA is set within a range where the circular light distribution shape can be adjusted over the entire range from a minimum value (0[%]) to a maximum value (100[%]). Specifically, in the second embodiment, the area between the small circle and the large circle defined by the dotted lines in Fig. 30 is set as the adjustment area TA.

[0229] Within the adjustment area TA, a touch position can be detected between a position on the contour line of the light distribution shape object OBJ when the diffusion degree is 0% (the small dotted circle in the figure) and a position on the contour line of the light distribution shape object OBJ when the diffusion degree is 100% (the large dotted circle in the figure). In the second embodiment, by detecting a touch position within the adjustment area TA, the diffusion degrees in the X and Y directions can be simultaneously adjusted to the same value.

[0230] On the illumination control application screen 400A of the control device 200a according to the second embodiment, the diffusion degree of the illumination device 1a can be set by a virtual position d0 on the contour line of the substantially circular light distribution shape object OBJ.

[0231] In the second embodiment, the position d0 on the display area DA in the adjustment area TA overlaps with the contour of the light distribution shape object OBJ and is a virtual position corresponding to the diffusion degree in the X and Y directions of the lighting device 1. The number "50" displayed near the virtual position d0 on the display area DA in FIG. 30 indicates the diffusion degree (50%]) in the X and Y directions of the lighting device 1. As the virtual position d0 on the display area DA in the adjustment area TA moves, the shape of the light distribution shape object OBJ changes concentrically. The virtual position d0 on the display area DA in the adjustment area TA is defined, for example, by the distance from the origin O of the XY plane. The relationship between the virtual position d0 on the display area DA in the adjustment area TA and the diffusion degree S may be calculated using a formula, or the correspondence between the virtual position d0 and the diffusion degree S may be stored in the storage circuitry 223a. The following description will exemplify a case in which the virtual position d0 and the diffusion degree S are mutually calculated using a formula.

[0232] In this embodiment, the diffusion degree S is a value corresponding to the distance from the origin O(0,0) of the XY plane on the lighting control application screen 400A to a virtual position d0 on the display area DA within the adjustment area TA. The user can change the size of the light distribution shape by touching the screen with a finger within the adjustment area TA. When the coordinates of the finger are (Xa, Ya), the distance √(Xa 2 +Ya 2 ) is used to determine the size of the light distribution shape object OBJ. For example, the distance √(Xa 2 +Ya 2 ) corresponds to a diffusion level of 50[%], when the touch detection position on the detection area FA and the virtual position d0 on the display area DA overlap due to the diffusion level adjustment process of embodiment 2, the light distribution shape becomes a circular shape corresponding to a diffusion level of 50[%].

[0233] In the second embodiment, when the control device 200a detects a continuous touch state in the adjustment area TA on the illumination control application screen 400A, the control device 200a proceeds to a diffusion degree adjustment process. Hereinafter, the continuous touch state in the adjustment area TA is also referred to as a "long tap state."

[0234] In the second embodiment, the "long tap state" refers to a state in which the duration T1 of a touch within the adjustment area TA has exceeded a predetermined long tap detection time (first time threshold) T1th (for example, 2 [sec]).

[0235] Fig. 31 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of a first storage area of ​​the storage circuit 223a in the control device 200a of the lighting device 1a according to embodiment 2. Fig. 32 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of a second storage area of ​​the storage circuit 223a in the control device 200a of the lighting device 1a according to embodiment 2. The first storage area is an area where various parameter values ​​(variables) necessary for the operation of the lighting control app are stored. The second storage area of ​​the storage circuit 223a is an area where various setting values ​​in the lighting control app are stored.

[0236] In the second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 31 , a first storage area of ​​the storage circuitry 223a stores a diffusion degree display value S on the lighting control application screen 400A and a virtual position display value d0 of the light distribution pattern object OBJ. The diffusion degree display value S indicates the current value of the diffusion degree of the lighting device 1a defined by the virtual position display value d0 of the light distribution pattern object OBJ. The first storage area also stores a touch position detection value d′0 in an adjustment area TA detected in a lighting control process according to the second embodiment, which will be described later, a diffusion degree target value S′ calculated based on the touch position detection value d′0, and a diffusion degree difference value ΔS, which is the difference between the diffusion degree target value S′ and the diffusion degree display value S. The diffusion degree target value S′ is a value calculated from the touch position detection value d′0 in the adjustment area TA or derived based on a correspondence relationship. In other words, the diffusion degree target value S′ is a value defined by the touch position detection value d′0 in the adjustment area TA.

[0237] The horizontal diffusion degree of the lighting device 1a is changed on a different adjustment scale depending on the magnitude of the diffusion degree difference value ΔS calculated every predetermined setting value change time (second time threshold) T2th (e.g., 0.5 [sec]) in the lighting control process according to the second embodiment described below.

[0238] In the second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 32, a diffusion degree coarse adjustment scale set value LSC (first adjustment interval) and a diffusion degree fine adjustment scale set value SSC (second adjustment interval) are stored in the second storage area of ​​the storage circuitry 223a.

[0239] The diffuseness coarse adjustment scale setting value LSC is set to, for example, 20%. The diffuseness fine adjustment scale setting value SSC is set to, for example, 1%. Note that these adjustment scales are merely examples and are not limited to the above. For example, the diffuseness coarse adjustment scale setting value LSC may be set to, for example, 10% or 30% and the diffuseness fine adjustment scale setting value SSC may be set to, for example, 0.5% or 2%. In the second embodiment, the diffuseness fine adjustment scale setting value SSC (second adjustment interval) may be set to a narrower interval (change width) than the diffuseness coarse adjustment scale setting value LSC (first adjustment interval). Furthermore, the diffuseness coarse adjustment scale setting value LSC and the diffuseness fine adjustment scale setting value SSC may be set by the user on the lighting control app.

[0240] A specific example of the processing in the control device 200a of the lighting device 1a according to the second embodiment will be described below.

[0241] The above-described processing during execution of the lighting control app is realized by application software executed on a CPU of the smartphone, tablet, etc. constituting the control device 200a. Fig. 33 is a flowchart showing an example of an initial setting process in the control device 200a of the lighting device 1a according to the second embodiment.

[0242] When the lighting control application is started on the control device 200a, a lighting control application screen 400a shown in FIG. 30 is displayed in the display area DA (step S001a).

[0243] Before the lighting control application is started, a lighting device 1a that is registered in advance in a space that can be paired with the control device 200a is started.

[0244] The transmitter / receiver circuit 225 of the control device 200a executes a pairing process with the lighting device 1a that is registered in advance as a control target device and is activated in a space that can be paired with the control device 200a (step S002a), and transmits a request command for the second setting information to the control target device (lighting device 1) (step S003a).

[0245] The transmitter / receiver circuit 111a of the lighting device 1a reads out the second setting information stored in the memory circuit 113a and transmits it to the control device 200a. In addition, the electrode driver circuit 112 of the lighting device 1a supplies drive voltages corresponding to the second setting information to the drive electrodes 10 and 13 of each liquid crystal cell 2 of the optical element 100.

[0246] The transmission / reception circuit 225a of the control device 200a determines whether or not the second setting information has been received from the lighting device 1a (step S004a). If the second setting information has not been received from the lighting device 1a (step S004a; No), the processing of step S004a is repeatedly executed.

[0247] When the second setting information is received from the lighting device 1a (step S004a; Yes), the transmission / reception circuit 225a stores the light diffusion degree S2 of the second setting information of the lighting device 1a as the diffusion degree display value S in the first memory area of ​​the memory circuit 223a shown in FIG. 31 (step S005a).

[0248] The first storage area stores an initial diffusion level S_ini (e.g., 50[%]). For example, when the lighting device 1a is turned on for the first time or when a lighting device 1a that is turned on in a pairable space is registered as a control target device, instead of the processing of steps S003a to S005a, the initial diffusion level S_ini (e.g., 50[%] shown in FIG. 31) may be set as the diffusion level display value S and transmitted to the registered lighting device 1a as first setting information (S1). In this case, the transmission / reception circuit 111a of the lighting device 1a stores the first setting information (S1) received from the control device 200a in the storage circuit 113a as second setting information (S2). The electrode driving circuit 112 of the lighting device 1a supplies driving voltages corresponding to the second setting information to the driving electrodes 10 and 13 of the liquid crystal cells 2 of the optical element 100.

[0249] The control device 200a calculates a virtual position display value d0 on the contour line of the light distribution shape object OBJ based on the diffusion degree display value S stored in the first storage area of ​​the storage circuit 223a (step S006a), and stores the calculated value in the first storage area.

[0250] The display control circuit 231 of the control device 200a reflects the diffusion degree display value S and the virtual position display value d0 on the contour line of the light distribution shape object OBJ, which are acquired in the above process and stored in the first memory area of ​​the memory circuit 223a, in the display control on the lighting control application screen 400A (step S007a).

[0251] When the processing up to step S007a is completed, the process shifts to a standby state (step S008a), and then shifts to the illumination control processing shown in Fig. 34 (step S100a). Fig. 34 is a flowchart showing an example of the overall flow of the illumination control processing in the control device 200a of the illumination device 1a according to the second embodiment.

[0252] In the standby state shown in FIG. 34 (step S101a), the control device 200a executes touch detection processing in the adjustment area TA (step S102a).

[0253] Specifically, for example, when the control device 200a does not detect a touch within the adjustment area TA (step S102a; No), the control device 200a returns to the standby state of step S101a and repeatedly executes the processes from step S101a to step S102a. The execution interval of the processes from step S101a to step S102a is set to, for example, 10 [ms].

[0254] When a touch within the adjustment area TA is detected (Step S102a; Yes), the process proceeds to a diffusion degree adjustment process (Step S400) shown in Fig. 35. Fig. 35 is a flowchart showing an example of the diffusion degree adjustment process in the control device 200a of the lighting device 1a according to the second embodiment.

[0255] When shifting to the diffusion degree adjustment process shown in FIG. 35, the control device 200a resets the count value T1 of the first timer that counts the duration of the touch within the adjustment area TA (T1 = 0, step S401).

[0256] Subsequently, the control device 200a determines whether the count value T1 of the first timer has elapsed a predetermined long tap detection time (first time threshold) T1th (e.g., 2 [sec]) (step S402). The long tap detection time (first time threshold) T1th is set to 200 counts (T1th = 200) when, for example, 10 [ms] is one count. Note that the long tap detection time (first time threshold) T1th is not limited to 2 [sec] (= 200).

[0257] When the count value T1 of the first timer is less than the predetermined long tap detection time T1th (T1 < T1th, step S402; No), subsequently, the control device 200a determines whether the touch state within the adjustment area TA is being continued (step S403). If the touch state within the adjustment area TA is not being continued (step S403; No), that is, when the user's finger has left the screen or the touch detection position has deviated from the adjustment area TA, the process returns to the illumination control process shown in FIG. 34, and the control state of the diffusion degree of the illumination device 1a is not adjusted, and the process shifts to the standby state (step S101a).

[0258] If the touch state within the adjustment area TA is being continued (step S403; Yes), until the count value T1 of the first timer elapses the predetermined long tap detection time T1th (step S402; Yes), the processes of steps S402 to step S403 are repeatedly executed.

[0259] When the count value T1 of the first timer has passed a predetermined long tap detection time T1th (step S402; Yes), the control device 200a determines that a long tap state has occurred (step S404), resets the count value T2 of the second timer that counts a predetermined setting value change time (second time threshold) T2th (T2=0, step S405), detects the touch position within the adjustment area TA, stores this as a touch position detection value d'0 in a first storage area of ​​the storage circuit 223a shown in Fig. 17 (step S406), calculates a diffuseness target value S' corresponding to the touch position detection value d'0 (step S407), and stores this in the first storage area shown in Fig. 17. Note that the touch position detection value d'0 within the adjustment area TA is at a position different from the position display value d0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ.

[0260] Then, the control device 200a reads out the diffusion degree display value S and the diffusion degree target value S' from the first memory area, calculates the diffusion degree difference value ΔS (ΔS=S'-S, step S408), and determines whether the magnitude |ΔS| of the diffusion degree difference value ΔS is less than the magnitude |SSC| of the diffusion degree fine adjustment scale setting value SSC (second adjustment interval) (step S409).

[0261] If the magnitude |ΔS| of the diffuseness difference value ΔS is equal to or greater than the magnitude |SSC| of the diffuseness fine adjustment scale setting value SSC (step S409; No), the control device 200a then determines whether the magnitude |ΔS| of the diffuseness difference value ΔS is equal to or greater than the magnitude |LSC| of the diffuseness coarse adjustment scale setting value LSC (step S411).

[0262] If the magnitude |ΔS| of the diffuseness difference value ΔS is equal to or larger than the magnitude |LSC| of the diffuseness coarse adjustment scale setting value LSC (step S411; Yes), the diffuseness coarse adjustment process shown in Fig. 36 is executed. Fig. 36 is a flowchart showing an example of the diffuseness coarse adjustment process in the control device 200 of the lighting device 1a according to the second embodiment.

[0263] The control device 200a reads the sign of the spreadability difference value ΔS and determines the adjustment direction of the spreadability display value S with respect to the spreadability target value S'. Specifically, the control device 200a determines whether the sign of the spreadability difference value ΔS is "+ (positive value)" (step S421).

[0264] If the sign of the diffuseness difference value ΔS is "+ (positive value)" (step S421; Yes), this indicates that the adjustment direction of the diffuseness display value S with respect to the diffuseness target value S' is a direction in which the diffuseness of the lighting device 1a is increased. In this case, the control device 200a adds the diffuseness coarse adjustment scale set value LSC (first adjustment interval) to the diffuseness display value S (step S413) to update the diffuseness display value S. The control device 200a also calculates a virtual position display value d0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ corresponding to the diffuseness display value S (step S423) and stores it in a first storage area of ​​the storage circuit 223a shown in FIG. 17.

[0265] Next, the control device 200a determines whether the count value T2 of the second timer has passed a predetermined set value change time (second time threshold) T2th (e.g., 0.5 [sec]) (step S424). For example, if 10 [ms] is defined as 1 count, the set value change time (second time threshold) T2th is set to 50 counts (T2th=50). Note that the set value change time (second time threshold) T2th is not limited to 0.5 [sec] (=50).

[0266] When the count value T2 of the second timer is less than the predetermined set value change time T2th (T2 < T2th, step S424; No), until the count value T2 of the second timer becomes equal to or greater than the predetermined set value change time T2th (T2 ≥ T2th, step S424; Yes), the process of step S424 is repeatedly executed. When the count value T2 of the second timer becomes equal to or greater than the predetermined set value change time T2th (T2 ≥ T2th, step S424; Yes), the display control circuit 231 of the control device 200a reflects the diffusion degree display value S and the virtual position display value d0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ, which are acquired in the above process and stored in the first storage area of the storage circuit 223a, in the display control on the lighting control application screen 400 (step S425). Further, the transmission / reception circuit 225a of the control device 200a reads out the diffusion degree display value S stored in the first storage area, and transmits the read diffusion degree display value S as the first setting information (S1 = S) to the lighting device 1a (step S426).

[0267] The transmission / reception circuit 111 of the lighting device 1a stores the received first setting information as the second setting information in the storage circuit 113, reads out the second setting information stored in the storage circuit 113, and supplies a driving voltage corresponding to the second setting information to each driving electrode 10, 13 of each liquid crystal cell 2 of the optical element 100.

[0268] Returning to FIG. 35, the control device 200a determines whether the long tap state continues (step S410). If the long tap state does not continue (step S410; No), that is, if the user's finger leaves the screen or the touch detection position deviates from the adjustment area TA, the process returns to the lighting control process shown in FIG. 34 and shifts to the standby state (step S101a). Thereby, the current diffusion degree display value S is determined in a state reflected in the control state of the diffusion degree of the lighting device 1a.

[0269] If the long tap state continues (step S410; Yes), the process returns to step S405. Here, if the long tap state continues (step S410; Yes), the magnitude |ΔS| of the spreadness difference value ΔS is equal to or greater than the magnitude |LSC| of the spreadness coarse adjustment scale set value LSC (step S411; Yes), and the sign of the spreadness difference value ΔS is "+ (positive value)" (step S421; Yes), the processes from step S405 to step S410, including the above-mentioned spreadness coarse adjustment process (step S420, FIG. 36), are repeatedly executed every predetermined set value change time (second time threshold) T2th until the magnitude |ΔS| of the spreadness difference value ΔS becomes less than the magnitude |LSC| of the spreadness coarse adjustment scale set value LSC (step S411; No). As a result, the spreadness display value S is coarsely adjusted in the expanding direction by the spreadness coarse adjustment scale set value LSC (first adjustment interval).

[0270] 36, if the sign of the diffuseness difference value ΔS is "- (negative value)" (step S421; No), this indicates that the adjustment direction of the diffuseness display value S relative to the diffuseness target value S' is a direction to reduce the diffuseness of the lighting device 1a. At this time, the control device 200a subtracts the diffuseness coarse adjustment scale set value LSC (first adjustment interval) from the diffuseness display value S (step S427) to update the diffuseness display value S. The control device 200a also calculates the virtual position display value d0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ corresponding to the diffuseness display value S (step S428), and stores it in the first storage area of ​​the storage circuit 223a shown in FIG. 17.

[0271] Next, the control device 200a determines whether the count value T2 of the second timer has passed a predetermined set value change time (second time threshold) T2th (for example, 0.5 [sec]) (step S429).

[0272] If the count value T2 of the second timer is less than a predetermined setting value change time T2th (T2 < T2th, step S429; No), the process of step S429 is repeatedly executed until the count value T2 of the second timer becomes equal to or greater than the predetermined setting value change time T2th (T2 ≥ T2th, step S429; Yes). When the count value T2 of the second timer becomes equal to or greater than the predetermined setting value change time T2th (T2 ≥ T2th, step S429; Yes), the display control circuit 231 of the control device 200a reflects the diffusion degree display value S and the virtual position display value d0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ, which are acquired in the above process and stored in the first storage area of the storage circuit 223a, in the display control on the illumination control application screen 400 (step S430). Further, the transmission / reception circuit 225a of the control device 200a reads the diffusion degree display value S stored in the first storage area, and transmits the read diffusion degree display value S as the first setting information (S1 = S) to the lighting device 1a (step S426).

[0273] The transmission / reception circuit 111 of the lighting device 1a stores the received first setting information in the storage circuit 113 as the second setting information, reads the second setting information stored in the storage circuit 113, and supplies a driving voltage corresponding to the second setting information to each driving electrode 10, 13 of each liquid crystal cell 2 of the optical element 100.

[0274] Returning to FIG. 35, the control device 200a determines whether the long tap state continues (step S410). If the long tap state does not continue (step S410; No), that is, if the user's finger leaves the screen or the touch detection position deviates from the adjustment area TA, the process returns to the illumination control process shown in FIG. 34 and shifts to the standby state (step S101a). Thereby, the current diffusion degree display value S is determined in a state reflected in the control state of the diffusion degree of the lighting device 1a.

[0275] If the long tap state continues (step S410; Yes), the process returns to step S405. Here, if the long tap state continues (step S410; Yes), the magnitude |ΔS| of the spreadness difference value ΔS is equal to or greater than the magnitude |LSC| of the spreadness coarse adjustment scale set value LSC (step S411; Yes), and the sign of the spreadness difference value ΔS is "- (negative value)" (step S421; No in FIG. 36), the processes from step S405 to step S410, including the above-mentioned spreadness coarse adjustment process (step S420, FIG. 36), are repeatedly executed at predetermined set value change times (second time threshold) T2th until the magnitude |ΔS| of the spreadness difference value ΔS becomes less than the magnitude |LSC| of the spreadness coarse adjustment scale set value LSC (step S411; No). As a result, the spreadness display value S is coarsely adjusted in the direction of reduction by the spreadness coarse adjustment scale set value LSC (first adjustment interval).

[0276] When the magnitude |ΔS| of the diffuseness difference value ΔS is less than the magnitude |LSC| of the diffuseness coarse adjustment scale setting value LSC (step S411; No), the diffuseness fine-adjustment process shown in Fig. 37 is executed. Fig. 37 is a flowchart showing an example of the diffuseness fine-adjustment process in the control device 200a of the lighting device 1a according to the second embodiment.

[0277] The control device 200a reads the sign of the spreadability difference value ΔS and determines the adjustment direction of the spreadability display value S with respect to the spreadability target value S'. Specifically, the control device 200a determines whether the sign of the spreadability difference value ΔS is "+ (positive value)" (step S441).

[0278] When the sign of the diffusion degree difference value ΔS is “+(positive value)” (step S441; Yes), it indicates that the adjustment direction of the diffusion degree display value S with respect to the diffusion degree target value S’ is the direction to expand the diffusion degree of the lighting device 1a. At this time, the control device 200a adds the diffusion degree fine adjustment scale setting value SSC (second adjustment interval) to the diffusion degree display value S (step S442) to update the diffusion degree display value S. Further, the control device 200a calculates the virtual position display value d0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ corresponding to the diffusion degree display value S (step S443) and stores it in the first storage area of the storage circuit 223a shown in FIG. 17.

[0279] Subsequently, the control device 200a determines whether the count value T2 of the second timer has elapsed a predetermined set value change time (second time threshold) T2th (for example, 0.5 [sec]) (step S444).

[0280] When the count value T2 of the second timer is less than the predetermined set value change time T2th (T2 < T2th, step S444; No), the process of step S444 is repeatedly executed until the count value T2 of the second timer becomes equal to or greater than the predetermined set value change time T2th (T2 ≧ T2th, step S444; Yes). When the count value T2 of the second timer becomes equal to or greater than the predetermined set value change time T2th (T2 ≧ T2th, step S444; Yes), the display control circuit 231 of the control device 200a reflects the diffusion degree display value S and the virtual position display value d0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ, which are acquired in the above process and stored in the first storage area of the storage circuit 223a, in the display control on the lighting control application screen 400 (step S445). Further, the transmission / reception circuit 225a of the control device 200a reads out the diffusion degree display value S stored in the first storage area of the storage circuit 223a, and transmits the read diffusion degree display value S as the first setting information (S1 = S) to the lighting device 1a (step S446).

[0281] The transmitter / receiver circuit 111 of the lighting device 1a stores the received first setting information as second setting information in the memory circuit 113, reads out the second setting information stored in the memory circuit 113, and supplies a driving voltage corresponding to the second setting information to each driving electrode 10, 13 of each liquid crystal cell 2 of the optical element 100.

[0282] Returning to Fig. 35, the control device 200a determines whether the long tap state continues (step S410). If the long tap state does not continue (step S410; No), that is, if the user's finger is removed from the screen or the touch detection position is outside the adjustment area TA, the process returns to the illumination control process shown in Fig. 34 and transitions to a standby state (step S101a). This causes the current diffusion degree display value S to be determined in a state where it is reflected in the diffusion degree control state of the illumination device 1a.

[0283] If the long tap state continues (step S410; Yes), the process returns to step S405. Here, if the long tap state continues (step S410; Yes), the magnitude |ΔS| of the spreadness difference value ΔS is less than the magnitude |LSC| of the spreadness coarse adjustment scale set value LSC (step S411; No), and the sign of the spreadness difference value ΔS is "+ (positive value)" (step S441 in FIG. 37; Yes), the processes from step S405 to step S410, including the spreadness fine-adjustment process described above (step S440, FIG. 37), are repeatedly executed every predetermined set value change time (second time threshold) T2th. As a result, the spreadness display value S is fine-adjusted in the expanding direction by the spreadness fine-adjustment scale set value SSC (second adjustment interval).

[0284] Thereafter, when the magnitude |ΔS| of the diffusion difference value ΔS becomes less than the magnitude |SSC| of the diffusion coarse adjustment scale setting value SSC (step S409; Yes) and the long tap state is released (step S410; No), the touch position detection value d'0 within the adjustment area TA and the virtual position display value d0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ approximately match (d'0 ≒ d0), and the current diffusion display value S is determined to be reflected in the diffusion control state of the lighting device 1a.

[0285] Returning to FIG. 37, when the sign of the diffusion degree difference value ΔS is “-(negative value)” (step S441; No), it indicates that the adjustment direction of the diffusion degree display value S with respect to the diffusion degree target value S’ is the direction to reduce the diffusion degree of the lighting device 1a. At this time, the control device 200a subtracts the diffusion degree fine adjustment scale setting value SSC (second adjustment interval) from the diffusion degree display value S (step S447), and updates the diffusion degree display value S. Further, the control device 200a calculates the virtual position display value d0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ corresponding to the diffusion degree display value S (step S448), and stores it in the first storage area of the storage circuit 223a shown in FIG. 17.

[0286] Subsequently, the control device 200a determines whether the count value T2 of the second timer has elapsed a predetermined setting value change time (second time threshold) T2th (for example, 0.5 [sec]) (step S449).

[0287] When the count value T2 of the second timer is less than the predetermined setting value change time T2th (T2 < T2th, step S449; No), the process of step S449 is repeatedly executed until the count value T2 of the second timer becomes equal to or greater than the predetermined setting value change time T2th (T2 ≧ T2th, step S449; Yes). When the count value T2 of the second timer becomes equal to or greater than the predetermined setting value change time T2th (T2 ≧ T2th, step S449; Yes), the display control circuit 231 of the control device 200a reflects the diffusion degree display value S and the virtual position display value d0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ, which are obtained in the above process and stored in the first storage area of the storage circuit 223a, in the display control on the lighting control application screen 400 (step S450). Further, the transmission / reception circuit 225a of the control device 200a reads out the diffusion degree display value S stored in the first storage area, and transmits the read diffusion degree display value S as the first setting information (S1 = S) to the lighting device 1a (step S451).

[0288] The transmitter / receiver circuit 111 of the lighting device 1a stores the received first setting information as second setting information in the memory circuit 113, reads out the second setting information stored in the memory circuit 113, and supplies a driving voltage corresponding to the second setting information to each driving electrode 10, 13 of each liquid crystal cell 2 of the optical element 100.

[0289] Returning to Fig. 35, the control device 200a determines whether the long tap state continues (step S410). If the long tap state does not continue (step S410; No), that is, if the user's finger is removed from the screen or the touch detection position is outside the adjustment area TA, the process returns to the illumination control process shown in Fig. 34 and transitions to a standby state (step S101a). This causes the current diffusion degree display value S to be determined in a state where it is reflected in the diffusion degree control state of the illumination device 1a.

[0290] If the long tap state continues (step S410; Yes), the process returns to step S405. Here, if the long tap state continues (step S410; Yes), the magnitude |ΔS| of the spreadness difference value ΔS is less than the magnitude |LSC| of the spreadness coarse adjustment scale set value LSC (step S411; No), and the sign of the spreadness difference value ΔS is "- (negative value)" (step S441 in FIG. 37; No), the processes from step S405 to step S410, including the spreadness fine-adjustment process described above (step S440, FIG. 37), are repeatedly executed every predetermined set value change time (second time threshold) T2th. As a result, the spreadness display value S is fine-adjusted in the direction of reduction by the spreadness fine-adjustment scale set value SSC (second adjustment interval).

[0291] Thereafter, when the magnitude |ΔS| of the diffusion difference value ΔS becomes less than the magnitude |SSC| of the diffusion coarse adjustment scale setting value SSC (step S409; Yes) and the long tap state is released (step S410; No), the touch position detection value d'0 within the adjustment area TA and the virtual position display value d0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ match or nearly match (d'0 ≒ d0), and the current diffusion display value S is determined to be reflected in the diffusion control state of the lighting device 1a.

[0292] In the diffusion degree adjustment process according to the second embodiment described above, a diffusion degree coarse adjustment process (FIG. 36) for adjusting the diffusion degree on a diffusion degree coarse adjustment scale (first adjustment interval) or a diffusion degree fine adjustment process (FIG. 37) for adjusting the diffusion degree on a diffusion degree fine adjustment scale (second adjustment interval) is performed depending on the touch detection position where the user maintains a long tap state within the adjustment area TA of the lighting control application screen 400A. Specifically, if the difference (diffusion degree difference value ΔS) between the diffusion degree target value S′ and the diffusion degree display value S is equal to or greater than the diffusion degree coarse adjustment scale (first adjustment interval) (step S411 in FIG. 35; Yes), the diffusion degree coarse adjustment process (FIG. 36) is performed. Also, if the difference (diffusion degree difference value ΔS) between the diffusion degree target value S′ and the diffusion degree display value S is less than the diffusion degree coarse adjustment scale (first adjustment interval) (step S411 in FIG. 35; No), the diffusion degree fine adjustment process (FIG. 37) is performed. Also, for example, when the difference between the diffusion target value S' and the diffusion display value S (diffusion difference value ΔS) becomes less than the diffusion coarse adjustment scale (first adjustment interval) due to the diffusion coarse adjustment process (Figure 36) (step S411 in Figure 35; No), a seamless transition is made to the diffusion fine adjustment process (Figure 37).

[0293] Furthermore, when the user performs a swipe operation while maintaining a long tap in the adjustment area TA of the lighting control application screen 400AA, a seamless transition occurs between the diffuseness coarse adjustment process ( FIG. 36 ) and the diffuseness fine adjustment process ( FIG. 37 ). For example, if a swipe operation after the diffuseness fine adjustment process ( FIG. 37 ) causes the difference (diffusivity difference value ΔS) between the diffuseness target value S′ and the diffuseness display value S to become equal to or greater than the diffuseness coarse adjustment scale (first adjustment interval) (step S411 in FIG. 35 ; Yes), a seamless transition occurs to the diffuseness coarse adjustment process ( FIG. 36 ). Also, for example, if a swipe operation after the diffuseness coarse adjustment process ( FIG. 36 ) causes the difference (diffusivity difference value ΔS) between the diffuseness target value S′ and the diffuseness display value S to become less than the diffuseness coarse adjustment scale (first adjustment interval) (step S411 in FIG. 35 ; No), a seamless transition occurs to the diffuseness fine adjustment process ( FIG. 37 ).

[0294] More specifically, when the magnitude |ΔS| of the diffuseness difference value ΔS is equal to or greater than the magnitude |LSC| of the diffuseness coarse adjustment scale setting value LSC (|ΔS| ≧ |LSC|, step S411 in FIG. 35 ; Yes), the diffuseness display value S corresponding to the virtual position display value d0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ is coarsely adjusted in a direction approaching the diffuseness target value S′ corresponding to the touch position detection value d′0, and when the magnitude |ΔS| of the diffuseness difference value ΔS is less than the magnitude |LSC| of the diffuseness coarse adjustment scale setting value LSC (|ΔS| < |LSC|, step S411 in FIG. 35 ; No), the diffuseness display value S corresponding to the virtual position display value d0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ is finely adjusted in a direction approaching the diffuseness target value S′ corresponding to the touch position detection value d′0.

[0295] Here, a description will be given of a specific example of operation on the lighting control application screen 400A of the control device 200a according to embodiment 2. Figures 38A, 38B, 38C, 38D, 38E, 38F, 38G, and 38H are diagrams showing specific examples of operation on the lighting control application screen 400A of the control device 200a according to embodiment 2.

[0296] Fig. 38A shows an example in which the spread degree display value S is 70[%] in the standby state (step S101a) of Fig. 34. Fig. 38B shows an example in which, in the standby state shown in Fig. 38A, a touch within the adjustment area TA is detected (step S102a of Fig. 34; Yes), the process proceeds to the spread degree adjustment process shown in Fig. 35, a long tap state is entered (step S404), and a touch position detection value d'0 corresponding to the spread degree target value S'=20[%] is detected within the adjustment area TA. At this time, the diffuseness difference value ΔS becomes −50% (ΔS=S′(=20)−S(=70%)=−50%), the magnitude |ΔS(=−50%)| of the diffuseness difference value ΔS becomes equal to or greater than the magnitude |LSC(=20%)| of the diffuseness coarse adjustment scale setting value LSC (|ΔS|≧|LSC|, step S411 in FIG. 35 ; Yes), and the sign of the diffuseness difference value ΔS(=−50%) becomes “− (negative value)” (step S421 in FIG. 36 ; No). As a result, the diffuseness of the lighting device 1a is coarsely adjusted in the direction of reduction (the direction of the arrow shown in FIG. 38B ) until the magnitude |ΔS| of the diffuseness difference value ΔS becomes less than the magnitude |LSC(=20%)| of the diffuseness coarse adjustment scale setting value LSC (step S411 in FIG. 35 ; No).

[0297] Specifically, first, in the first round of processing from step S405 to step S410 of the diffusion degree adjustment process shown in FIG. 35, when the count value T2 of the second timer reaches a predetermined setting value change time (second time threshold) T2th (e.g., 0.5 [sec]) (step S429 in FIG. 36; Yes), the virtual position display value d0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ becomes a position corresponding to the diffusion degree display value S=50 [%], as shown in FIG. 38C, and in the subsequent second round of processing, the virtual position display value d0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ becomes a position corresponding to the diffusion degree display value S=30 [%], as shown in FIG. 38D.

[0298] Then, in the third round of processing, when the diffuseness difference value ΔS becomes -10[%] (ΔS=S'(=20[%])-S(=30[%])=-10[%]), and the magnitude |ΔS(=-10[%])| of the diffuseness difference value ΔS becomes less than the magnitude |LSC(=20[%])| of the diffuseness coarse adjustment scale setting value LSC (|ΔS|<|LSC|, step S411 in Figure 35; No), as shown in Figure 38E, the diffuseness of the lighting device 1a is fine-adjusted in the direction of reduction (the direction of the arrow shown in Figure 38B) until the magnitude |ΔS| of the diffuseness difference value ΔS becomes less than the magnitude |SSC(=1[%])| of the diffuseness fine adjustment scale setting value SSC (step S409 in Figure 35; Yes). As a result, the touch position detection value d'0 corresponding to the diffusion degree target value S' and the virtual position display value d0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ become substantially the same (d'0≈d0).

[0299] 38F shows an example in which the user then performs a swipe operation within the adjustment area TA while maintaining the long tap state (step S410 in FIG. 35; Yes). More specifically, FIG. 38F shows an example in which the touch position detection value d'0 within the adjustment area TA is updated by the swipe operation, the magnitude |ΔS| of the spreadability difference value ΔS becomes equal to or greater than the magnitude |LSC(=20[%])| of the spreadability coarse adjustment scale setting value LSC (|ΔS|≧|LSC|, step S411 in FIG. 35; Yes), and the touch position detection value d'0 corresponding to the spreadability target value S'=50[%] is detected within the adjustment area TA (the swipe operation by the user stops at the touch position detection value d'0). At this time, the diffuseness difference value ΔS becomes 30% (ΔS=S′(=50%)−S(=20%)=30%), the magnitude |ΔS(=30%)| of the diffuseness difference value ΔS becomes equal to or greater than the magnitude |LSC(=20%)| of the diffuseness coarse adjustment scale setting value LSC (|ΔS|≧|LSC|, step S411 in FIG. 35 ; Yes), and the sign of the diffuseness difference value ΔS(=30%]) becomes “+ (positive value)” (step S421 in FIG. 36 ; Yes). As a result, the diffuseness of the lighting device 1a is roughly adjusted in the direction of increasing the diffuseness (the direction of the arrow shown in FIG. 38F) until the magnitude |ΔS| of the diffuseness difference value ΔS becomes less than the magnitude |LSC(=20%)| of the diffuseness coarse adjustment scale setting value LSC (step S411 in FIG. 35 ; No).

[0300] Specifically, first, in the first cycle of the diffusion adjustment process from step S405 to step S410 shown in FIG. 35, when the count value T2 of the second timer reaches a predetermined setting value change time (second time threshold) T2th (e.g., 0.5 [sec]) (step S424 in FIG. 36; Yes), the virtual position display value d0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ becomes a position corresponding to the diffusion display value S=40 [%], as shown in FIG. 38G.

[0301] Then, in the second round of processing, the diffuseness difference value ΔS becomes 10% (ΔS = S' (= 50%) - S (= 40%) = 10%), and when the magnitude |ΔS (= 10%)| of the diffuseness difference value ΔS becomes less than the magnitude |LSC (= 20%)| of the diffuseness coarse adjustment scale setting value LSC (|ΔS| < |LSC|, step S411 in FIG. 35 ; No), the diffuseness of the lighting device 1a is fine-adjusted in the direction of enlarging it (the direction of the arrow shown in FIG. 38F). FIG. 38H shows an example in which the user lifts their finger from the screen when the virtual position display value d0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ reaches a position corresponding to the diffuseness display value S = 42% before the virtual position display value d0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ becomes substantially identical to the touch position detection value d'0 corresponding to the diffuseness target value S' (step S410 in FIG. 35 ; No). As a result, the current diffusion degree display value S=42[%] is fixed in a state where it is reflected in the control state of the diffusion degree of the lighting device 1a.

[0302] Note that if the long tap state is maintained at a position (touch position detection value d'0) corresponding to the diffuseness target value S'=50[%] until the magnitude |ΔS| of the diffuseness difference value ΔS becomes less than the magnitude |SSC(=1[%])| of the diffuseness fine-adjustment scale setting value SSC (step S409 in FIG. 35; Yes), the diffuseness of the lighting device 1a is fine-adjusted in the direction of increasing the diffuseness (the direction of the arrow shown in FIG. 38F) until the magnitude |ΔS| of the diffuseness difference value ΔS becomes less than the magnitude |SSC(=1[%])| of the diffuseness fine-adjustment scale setting value SSC (step S409 in FIG. 35; Yes). As a result, the touch position detection value d'0 corresponding to the diffuseness target value S'(=50[%]) and the virtual position display value d0 of the light distribution shape object OBJ become identical or approximately identical (d'0≒d0). In this state, when the user removes his / her finger from the screen (step S410 in FIG. 35; No), the current diffusion degree display value S=50[%] is fixed as reflected in the control state of the diffusion degree of the lighting device 1a.

[0303] In the control device 200a of the lighting device 1a according to the above-described second embodiment, when the diffusion difference value ΔS, which is the difference between the diffusion target value S' defined by the touch position detection value d'0 within the adjustment area TA and the diffusion display value S, is equal to or greater than the diffusion coarse adjustment scale setting value LSC (first adjustment interval), the diffusion display value S is adjusted using the diffusion coarse adjustment scale setting value LSC (first adjustment interval), and when the diffusion difference value ΔS is less than the diffusion coarse adjustment scale setting value LSC (first adjustment interval), the diffusion display value S is adjusted using the diffusion fine adjustment scale setting value SSC (second adjustment interval) which is narrower than the diffusion coarse adjustment scale setting value LSC (first adjustment interval).

[0304] In addition, when the duration T1 of the touch within the adjustment area TA exceeds a predetermined long tap detection time (first time threshold) T1th, detection of the touch position detection value d'0 that defines the diffusion degree target value S' begins, and when the touch within the adjustment area TA continues, the diffusion degree display value S is adjusted every predetermined setting value change time (second time threshold) T2th.

[0305] As a result, for example, when adjustment is being made on the diffusion degree fine-adjustment scale (second adjustment interval) at each set value change time (second time threshold) T2th, the user can remove their finger from the screen once the desired diffusion degree display value S is obtained, and the current diffusion degree display value S is fixed in a state that reflects the control state of the horizontal diffusion degree of the lighting device 1a. This makes it easy to obtain the desired diffusion degree display value S, and facilitates fine adjustment of the diffusion degree display value S.

[0306] Although preferred embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, the present disclosure is not limited to such embodiments. The contents disclosed in the embodiments are merely examples, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, if the lighting device of the present disclosure is capable of adjusting not only the light distribution shape but also the brightness and color of the light, a configuration for coarsely or finely adjusting the brightness and color of the light using the configuration of the present disclosure is also possible. Appropriate modifications made within the scope of the present disclosure also fall within the technical scope of the present disclosure. [Explanation of symbols]

[0307] 1,1a Lighting equipment 2 Liquid crystal cells 2_1 First liquid crystal cell 2_2 Second liquid crystal cell 2_3 Third liquid crystal cell 2_4 4th liquid crystal cell 4 light source 5 First board 6 Second board 7. Encapsulating material 8 Liquid Crystal Layer 9 Base material 10, 10a, 10b drive electrodes 11 1st metal wiring 11a,11b,11c,11d Metal wiring 12 Base material 13, 13a, 13b drive electrodes 14 2nd metal wiring 14a, 14b Metal wiring 15a,15b Continuity part 16a, 16b Connection terminal section 17 Liquid crystal molecules 18 Alignment film 19 Alignment film 20 Display panel 30 Touch Sensor 31 Detector element 100 Optical Elements 111,111a Transmitting and receiving circuit 112 Electrode drive circuit 113,113a Memory circuit 200,200a Control device 211 Detection circuit 212 Conversion processing circuit 223,223a Memory circuit 225,225a Transmitting and receiving circuit 231 Display control circuit 300 Communication means (wireless communication means) 400,400A Lighting Control App Screen AA effective area DA display area FA detection area GA peripheral area OBJ Light distribution shape object TA Adjustment Area TA1 First Adjustment Area TA2 Second Adjustment Area

Claims

1. A control device that controls a plurality of lighting devices, the control device being capable of setting a light distribution shape of light irradiated on a virtual plane in two directions, a first direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction, by adjusting a degree of diffusion of light emitted from a light source, a touch sensor having a detection area in which a plurality of detection elements are provided; a display panel that has a display area that overlaps with the detection area of ​​the touch sensor in a plan view, and that displays a screen for adjusting the diffusion degree of the lighting device in the display area; Equipped with the adjustment screen is provided with an adjustment area for adjusting the diffusion degree of the lighting device, adjusting the diffusion degree of the lighting device at the first adjustment interval when a difference between a target value of diffusion degree defined by a touch detection position within the adjustment area and a current value of diffusion degree of the lighting device is equal to or greater than a first adjustment interval; adjusting the diffusion degree of the lighting device at a second adjustment interval that is shorter than the first adjustment interval when a difference between the target value of the diffusion degree and a current value of the diffusion degree of the lighting device is less than the first adjustment interval; Control device for lighting devices.

2. The adjustment screen includes: an X direction corresponding to the first direction, a Y direction corresponding to the second direction, and an XY plane having an origin at a predetermined position on the adjustment screen are defined, and a light distribution shape object having a center point at the origin of the XY plane is provided; The control device for a lighting device according to claim 1 .

3. The adjustment area is a first adjustment region including a region overlapping with the X axis of the XY plane and capable of adjusting the light distribution shape in the X direction; a second adjustment region including a region overlapping with the Y axis of the XY plane and capable of adjusting the light distribution shape in the Y direction; Including, The lighting device control device according to claim 2 .

4. a position on the X-axis corresponding to the current value of the diffusion degree of the lighting device in the first direction and a position on the Y-axis corresponding to the current value of the diffusion degree of the lighting device in the second direction overlap on a contour line of the light distribution shape object, and the light distribution shape object changes into a circular or elliptical shape in accordance with a change in the current value of the diffusion degree of the lighting device in the first direction and a change in the current value of the diffusion degree of the lighting device in the second direction. The lighting device control device according to claim 3 .

5. adjusting the diffusion degree of the lighting device in the first direction at the first adjustment interval when a difference between a target value of the diffusion degree in the first direction defined by a touch detection position within the first adjustment area and a current value of the diffusion degree of the lighting device in the first direction is equal to or greater than a first adjustment interval; adjusting the diffusion degree of the lighting device in the first direction at a second adjustment interval that is shorter than the first adjustment interval when a difference between the target value of the diffusion degree of the lighting device in the first direction and a current value of the diffusion degree of the lighting device in the first direction is less than the first adjustment interval; adjusting the diffusion degree of the lighting device in the second direction at the first adjustment interval when a difference between a target value of the diffusion degree of the second direction defined by a touch detection position within the second adjustment area and a current value of the diffusion degree of the lighting device in the second direction is equal to or greater than a first adjustment interval; adjusting the diffusion degree of the lighting device in the second direction at a second adjustment interval that is shorter than the first adjustment interval when a difference between the target value of the diffusion degree of the lighting device in the second direction and a current value of the diffusion degree of the lighting device in the second direction is less than the first adjustment interval; The lighting device control device according to claim 4 .

6. When a duration of a touch within the first adjustment region exceeds a predetermined first time threshold, detection of a touch position in the X direction that defines a target value of the degree of diffusion in the first direction is started; When the duration of the touch within the second adjustment region exceeds the first time threshold, detection of the touch position in the Y direction that defines the target value of the degree of diffusion in the second direction is started. The lighting device control device according to claim 5 .

7. adjusting a diffusion degree of the lighting device in a first direction for each second predetermined time threshold value different from the first time threshold value when the touch within the first adjustment region is continued; adjusting the diffusion degree of the lighting device in the second direction for each second time threshold while the touch within the second adjustment region continues; The lighting device control device according to claim 6 .

8. the adjustment area is provided within a graphic area that includes, on a contour line, a position corresponding to a maximum value of the diffusion degree of the lighting device; The lighting device control device according to claim 2 .

9. the light distribution shape object is configured so that a position corresponding to the current diffusion degree value of the lighting device overlaps with a contour line of the light distribution shape object, and the light distribution shape object expands or contracts while maintaining its outer shape in accordance with a change in the current diffusion degree value of the lighting device. The lighting device control device according to claim 8 .

10. When a duration of a touch within the adjustment region exceeds a predetermined first time threshold, detection of a touch position that defines a target value of the degree of diffusion is started. The lighting device control device according to claim 9 .

11. adjusting a diffusion degree of the lighting device at intervals of a second predetermined time threshold different from the first time threshold while the touch within the adjustment region continues; The lighting device control device according to claim 10.

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