lighting system

Abstract

To provide a highly convenient gateway when a lighting system is constructed.SOLUTION: A gateway includes a first communication unit, a second communication unit, and a processing unit. The first communication unit performs communication in accordance with a first communication method. The second communication unit performs wireless communication in accordance with a second communication method. The processing unit receives first data from a controller via the first communication unit, converts the first data into second data, and transmits the second data to a wireless dimmer for lighting via the second communication unit. The gateway further includes a connection unit capable of connecting an external apparatus. The processing unit generates a control signal based on an external input signal input from the external apparatus via the connection unit, and transmits the control signal to the wireless dimmer for lighting via the second communication unit.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This embodiment includes a gateway that receives control signals from a controller and transmits the control signals to a dimmer of a lighting device. A lighting system comprising: Regarding. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 (Japanese Patent No. 6266126) discloses a lighting unit including a solid-state light source and a wireless circuit that receives a wireless control signal to enable control of the lighting unit. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 6266126 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] This embodiment is a gateway that is highly convenient when constructing a lighting system. A lighting system comprising: to provide. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] According to this embodiment, The lighting system includes a controller, a router capable of communicating with the controller, a gateway that communicates with the router in accordance with a first communication method, and a wireless lighting dimmer that communicates with the gateway in accordance with a second communication method. The gateway includes a first communication unit and a second communication unit. External input connection The communication device includes a first communication unit that performs communication in accordance with a first communication method, and a second communication unit that performs wireless communication in accordance with a second communication method. The external input connector can be connected to an external device. The processing unit is Router and receiving first data via a first communication unit, converting the first data into second data, and transmitting the second data to a wireless lighting dimmer via a second communication unit; death, From an external device External Input A control signal is generated based on an external input signal input via the connection unit, and the control signal is transmitted to the wireless lighting dimmer via the second communication unit. During setup, the controller starts the configuration process. The router searches for a gateway. The gateway sends a response to the router search. The controller sends gateway identification information to the gateway found via the router. The router receives the gateway identification information from the controller and sends it to the gateway. The gateway stores the gateway identification information received from the router in its storage unit. The controller and gateway perform pairing using the second communication method, and the controller receives gateway identification information from the gateway via the router using the first communication method. The controller associates the gateway found through pairing with the gateway identification information obtained by referencing the gateway. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0006] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a lighting system including a gateway according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 4 is a sequence diagram showing an example of processing by the first controller, the router, and the gateway according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a gateway according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a lighting system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a second controller according to the third embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 11 is a front view showing an example of a second controller according to a third embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a lighting system according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 13 is a front view showing an example of a second controller according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a lighting / extinguishing process executed by a lighting system according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of a change process and a change cancellation process executed by a lighting system according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a wireless dimmer according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 12] 13 is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed by a wireless module according to the fifth embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a wireless dimmer according to a sixth embodiment. [Figure 14] 6 is a graph showing an example of the relationship between the voltage and average voltage of a PWM signal. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] Hereinafter, each embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, substantially the same functions and components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant description will be given only when necessary.

[0008] [First embodiment] The first embodiment relates to a gateway and a lighting system including the gateway.

[0009] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a lighting system 1 including gateways GW1 to GWp according to the first embodiment.

[0010] The various components illustrated in FIG. 1 may be freely combined or freely separated as long as they can achieve the same or similar functions and actions.

[0011] The lighting system 1 includes a first controller 2, at least one router 3, gateways GW1 to GWp corresponding to the facilities F1 to Fp, respectively, a plurality of combinations of wireless dimmers, dimmers and lighting devices provided in the facilities F1 to Fp, and second controllers C1 to Cp provided in the facilities F1 to Fp, respectively.

[0012] In the first embodiment, the gateway GW1 will be described as a representative of the gateways GW1 to GWp. The facility F1 will be described as a representative of the facilities F1 to Fp. The second controller C1 will be described as a representative of the second controllers C1 to Cp. The gateways GW2 to GWp, the facilities F2 to Fp, and the second controllers C2 to Cp are similar to the gateway GW1, the facility F1, and the second controller C1, and therefore descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0013] The first controller 2 functions as a setting terminal or a parent device. The first controller 2 is used to control the lighting system 1. The first controller 2 is a higher-level control device than the second controller C1. The first controller 2 performs wireless communication with multiple wireless dimmers D1 to Dr that belong to the facility F1 via the router 3 and the gateway GW1.

[0014] More specifically, the first controller 2 communicates with the router 3 wirelessly or via a wired connection. The router 3 communicates with the gateways GW1 to GWp wirelessly or via a wired connection. The gateway G1 communicates wirelessly with multiple wireless dimmers D1 to Dr that belong to the facility F1. Each of the multiple wireless dimmers D1 to Dr includes a wireless module W1 to Wr.

[0015] For example, wireless LAN (Local Area Network) communication may be used between the first controller 2 and the router 3. Wired LAN communication or wireless LAN communication may be used between the router 3 and the gateways GW1 to GWp. Bluetooth (registered trademark) may be used between the gateway GW1 and the multiple wireless dimmers D1 to Dr.

[0016] The first controller 2 is used to set the second controllers C1 to Cp. The first controller 2 and the second controllers C1 to Cp may communicate with each other via wireless LAN communication or wireless communication such as Bluetooth.

[0017] The first controller 2 may recognize the gateways GW1 to GWp, the multiple wireless dimmers belonging to the facilities F1 to Fp, and the second controllers C1 to Cp through pairing (provisioning), and may become able to communicate with the gateways GW1 to GWp, the multiple wireless dimmers belonging to the facilities F1 to Fp, and the second controllers C1 to Cp.

[0018] The first controller 2 accepts an operation by a user (operator), generates and stores scene information, and transmits the scene information to a plurality of wireless dimmers belonging to the facilities F1 to Fp via the router 3 and gateways GW1 to GWp.

[0019] In the first embodiment, a scene is taken to mean a lighting situation, for example a lighting production formed by at least one lighting device.

[0020] The first controller 2 may be used, for example, as a control terminal or as a setting terminal, and the control terminal and the setting terminal may be different devices.

[0021] The first controller 2 may accept a user's operation, generate and store various setting information, and transmit the setting information to the second controllers C1 to Cp via the router 3 and the gateways GW1 to GWp. Alternatively, the first controller 2 may transmit the setting information to the second controllers C1 to Cp by wireless communication such as Bluetooth. The setting information may include, for example, identification information indicating the facility to be controlled by the second controllers C1 to Cp, the area to be controlled, the group to be controlled, and the wireless dimmer or dimmer appliance to be controlled. The setting information may also include, for example, time information for canceling the scene change.

[0022] In the first embodiment, the first controller 2 may be a device such as a personal computer, a tablet computer, a mobile phone, a mobile computer, or a control terminal.

[0023] The router 3 relays communication between the first controller 2 and the gateways GW1 to GWp. For example, the router 3 performs wireless LAN communication with the first controller 2 and wired LAN communication with the gateways GW1 to GWp. The router 3 has a function of selecting and controlling a data transfer path.

[0024] The gateway GW1 executes relay processing to enable data transmission and reception between networks with different protocols. In the first embodiment, the gateway GW1 may have a function to cancel the temporary scene change of the multiple wireless dimmers D1 to Dr belonging to the facility F1 at the time indicated by the time information when the gateway GW1 receives a regular change cancellation instruction and time information from the second controller C1.

[0025] In the first embodiment, a plurality of dimmers A1-Ar are connected to a plurality of lighting devices I1-Ir, respectively. In the first embodiment, the plurality of lighting devices I1-Ir and the plurality of dimmers A1-Ar are not compatible with wireless communication. Wireless dimmers D1-Dr are connected to the non-wireless dimmers A1-Ar. In this way, by applying the wireless dimmers D1-Dr to the non-wireless dimmers A1-Ar, it becomes possible to control the dimmers A1-Ar and lighting devices I1-Ir using wireless communication.

[0026] The multiple lighting devices I1-Ir may be connected to the wireless dimmers D1-Dr without the multiple dimmers A1-Ar. In other words, the multiple dimmers A1-Ar may be eliminated or may be incorporated into the wireless dimmers D1-Dr as part of their functions.

[0027] A combination of a plurality of wireless dimmers D1 to Dr, dimmers A1 to Ar, and lighting devices I1 to Ir is installed in a facility F1. In the first embodiment, the facility F1 may be, for example, one floor of a building.

[0028] The facility F1 is divided into a plurality of areas E1 to En. Each of the combinations of the plurality of wireless dimmers D1 to Dr, dimmers A1 to Ar, and lighting devices I1 to Ir belongs to one of the plurality of areas E1 to En.

[0029] At least one group belongs to each of the areas E1 to En.

[0030] Each of the at least one group includes at least one combination of a wireless dimmer, a dimmer, and a lighting device.

[0031] In the following, area E1 will be described as a representative of areas E1 to En, but the other areas E2 to En are similar to area E1.

[0032] In the following, group G1 will be described as a representative of groups G1 to Gm belonging to area E1, but the other groups G2 to Gm are similar to group G1.

[0033] Group G1 includes a plurality of wireless dimmers D1 to Dk, a plurality of dimmers A1 to Ak, and a plurality of lighting devices I1 to Ik.

[0034] Each of the plurality of wireless dimmers D1 to Dk is connected to each of the plurality of dimmers A1 to Ak, and each of the plurality of dimmers A1 to Ak is connected to each of the plurality of lighting devices I1 to Ik.

[0035] Each of the plurality of wireless dimmers D1 to Dk includes a wireless module W1 to Wk.

[0036] In the following, of the multiple wireless dimmers D1 to Dk, the multiple dimmers A1 to Ak, and the multiple lighting devices I1 to Ik, the wireless dimmer D1, the dimmer A1, and the lighting device I1 will be described as representatives, but the other wireless dimmers D2 to Dk, the other dimmers A2 to Ak, and the other lighting devices I2 to Ik are also similar to the wireless dimmer D1, the dimmer A1, and the lighting device I1.

[0037] The wireless dimmer D1 uses the wireless module W1 to wirelessly receive scene information addressed to the wireless dimmer D1 from the controller 3 via the router 3 and the gateway GW1. The wireless dimmer D1 stores the received scene information addressed to the wireless dimmer D1 and transmits a dimming signal (control signal) to the dimmer A1 according to the scene information. The dimmer A1 turns on, off, or blinks the lighting device I1 according to the dimming signal received from the wireless dimmer D1. In this way, the lighting device I1 achieves lighting corresponding to the scene information.

[0038] The wireless dimmer D1 wirelessly receives a change instruction addressed to the wireless dimmer D1 from the second controller C1 using the wireless module W1. The wireless dimmer D1 receives, for example, identification information and change information from the second controller C1 and determines the destination based on the identification information. Note that the wireless dimmer D1 may also receive the change information addressed to the wireless dimmer D1 from the second controller C1 via the gateway GW1.

[0039] The wireless dimmer D1 transmits a dimming signal to the dimmer A1 in accordance with the change information, which enables the dimmer A1 to turn on, turn off, or blink the lighting device I1 in a state in which the scene information has been changed.

[0040] The wireless dimmer D1 wirelessly receives a change cancellation instruction addressed to the wireless dimmer D1 from the second controller C1 using, for example, the wireless module W1. The scheduled change cancellation instruction is issued when a set time arrives and indicates that the changed scene information should be restored to the original scene information. The wireless dimmer D1 receives, for example, identification information and the change cancellation instruction from the second controller C1 and determines the destination of the change cancellation instruction based on the identification information.

[0041] When the wireless dimmer D1 receives the change cancellation instruction, it transmits a dimming signal generated based on the original scene information before the change to the dimmer A1. This allows the dimmer A1 to turn on, turn off, or blink the lighting device I1 according to the original scene information. The lighting device I1 returns to the lighting state corresponding to the scene information before the change.

[0042] The wireless dimmer D1 wirelessly receives a scheduled change cancellation instruction addressed to the wireless dimmer D1 from the gateway GW1 using the wireless module W1. The wireless dimmer D1 receives, for example, identification information and the scheduled change cancellation instruction from the gateway GW1, and determines the destination of the scheduled change cancellation instruction based on the identification information.

[0043] When the wireless dimmer D1 receives the scheduled change cancellation instruction, it generates a dimming signal based on the original scene information before the change and transmits the generated dimming signal to the dimmer A1. The dimmer A1 can turn on, off, or blink the lighting device I1 according to the original scene information. As a result, the lighting device I1 returns to the lighting state corresponding to the scene information before the change when a predetermined time arrives. The specific configuration of the wireless dimmer D1 will be described later in a fifth embodiment.

[0044] As a method for canceling the change at a fixed time, instead of sending a fixed-time change cancellation instruction from the gateway GW1 to the wireless dimmer D1, fixed-time change cancellation information specifying the time to cancel the change may be stored in the wireless dimmer D1, and the wireless dimmer D1 may execute the fixed-time change cancellation process at the time specified based on the fixed-time change cancellation information.

[0045] The dimmer A1 receives a dimming signal from the wireless dimmer D1 and controls the lighting device I1 in accordance with the received dimming signal. The dimming signal may be, for example, a PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) signal. In the first embodiment, the dimmer A1 does not have a wireless communication function.

[0046] The dimmer A1 and the wireless dimmer D1 are connected by a PWM signal line L. In the following, a case where the analog signal is a PWM signal will be described as an example, but the analog signal may be a signal of another type.

[0047] The lighting device I1 may be, for example, a light emitting diode (LED). The lighting device I1 turns on, turns off, or blinks under the control of the dimmer A1.

[0048] The second controller C1 may be, for example, a wall scene switch or a remote controller. In a third embodiment described later, the second controller C1 will be described as a wall scene switch, and in a fourth embodiment described later, the second controller C1 will be described as a remote controller.

[0049] Even when the lighting system 1 is playing a scene (executing a lighting state based on scene information), the second controller C1 may be used to accept user operations and instruct all or some of the wireless dimmers belonging to the facility F1 (for example, wireless dimmers belonging to a specific area, wireless dimmers belonging to a specific group, or specific wireless dimmers) to leave the scene (turn on, turn off, blink, change dim, change color of lighting devices) or cancel the change (return to the original scene).

[0050] The second controller C1 is a lower-level control device of the first controller 2 and may be smaller, lighter, and have fewer control functions than the first controller 2. The second controller C1 receives setting information from the first controller 2 using wireless communication and stores the setting information. The second controller C1 accepts a change operation by the user via an operation unit and stores change information corresponding to the change operation. The second controller C1 transmits the change information to the wireless dimmer D1 identified by identification information included in the setting information.

[0051] The identification information identifies, for example, at least one of the floor F1 of the destination (the control target of the second controller C1), the area E1 of the destination, the group G1 of the destination, and the wireless dimmer D1 of the destination. As a result, the change information is transmitted to the wireless dimmer that belongs to the floor F1 identified by the identification information, the wireless dimmer that belongs to the area E1 identified by the identification information, the wireless dimmer that belongs to the group G1 identified by the identification information, or the wireless dimmer D1 identified by the identification information.

[0052] FIG. 2 is a sequence diagram showing an example of processing by the first controller 2, the router 3, and the gateway GW1 according to the first embodiment.

[0053] During setup, the first controller 2 starts the setting process (S201), the router 3 searches for the gateway GW1 (S202), and the gateway GW1 sends a response to the search of the router 3 (S203). The router 3 and the gateway GW1 are connected by wire, for example.

[0054] The first controller 2 transmits the gateway identification information to the gateway GW1 found via the router 3 (S204), and displays, for example, the facility F1 and the gateway identification information in association with each other on the display unit. The router 3 receives the gateway identification information from the first controller 2 and transmits the received gateway identification information to the gateway GW1 (S205). The gateway GW1 receives the gateway identification information from the router 3 and stores the received gateway identification information in the storage unit (S206).

[0055] Next, the first controller 2 and the gateway GW1 perform pairing (grouping) for a second communication method, such as Bluetooth, and at that time, the first controller 2 receives and refers to gateway identification information from the gateway GW1 via the router 3 using a first communication method, such as wireless LAN communication (S207 to S210).

[0056] The first controller 2 associates the gateway GW1 found by pairing with the gateway identification information acquired by referring to the gateway GW1 (S211).

[0057] If multiple gateways exist on a network, the gateways may be searched for randomly. However, by performing the process shown in Figure 2, it is possible to avoid gateway mismatches.

[0058] By the above-described process of FIG. 2, the user can operate the first controller 2 to automatically switch the radio wave system and communication method, and assign identification information.

[0059] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the gateway GW1 according to the first embodiment.

[0060] The gateway GW1 can relay data communication between different communication methods, such as wireless LAN communication and Bluetooth.

[0061] The gateway GW1 according to the first embodiment includes a DMX terminal 4 and an external input terminal 5.

[0062] The DMX terminal (DMX signal output terminal) 4 is a connection terminal used for communication conforming to DMX. DMX is a communication standard for controlling the dimming and color adjustment of lighting fixtures. The DMX terminal 4 can be connected to a DMX fixture 9 via a wire.

[0063] The external input terminal 5 can be connected by wire to an external device 10. The external device 10 may be an input interface device that can be operated by a user.

[0064] The gateway GW1 further includes a first communication unit 61, a second communication unit 62, a storage unit 7, and a processing unit 8.

[0065] The first communication unit 61 communicates with the router 3 using a first communication method. The first communication unit 61 may communicate using a wired connection such as LAN communication, or may communicate wirelessly such as wireless LAN communication.

[0066] The second communication unit 62 communicates with the wireless dimmers D1 to Dr using a second communication method. The second communication unit 62 may communicate wirelessly using, for example, Bluetooth.

[0067] The storage unit 7 stores software such as, for example, data used by the processing unit 8, data generated by the processing unit 8, programs used by the processing unit 8, data received from the router 3 via the first communication unit 61, data to be transmitted to the router 3 via the first communication unit 61, data received from the wireless dimmers D1 to Dr via the second communication unit 62, data to be transmitted to the wireless dimmers D1 to Dr via the second communication unit 62, data received from the DMX fixtures 9 via the DMX terminals 4, data to be transmitted to the DMX fixtures 9 via the DMX terminals 4, and data received from the external device 10 via the external input terminal 5. The software stored in the storage unit 7 may include, for example, various setting values, programs for data conversion, and the like.

[0068] The processing unit 8 may be, for example, a microcomputer or a processor. The processing unit 8 executes various processes, such as communication processes, based on software stored in the storage unit .

[0069] The processing unit 8 may transmit a scheduled change cancellation instruction to the wireless dimmers D1 to Dr via the second communication unit 52 at the time indicated by the time information stored in the storage unit .

[0070] In the first embodiment described above, the gateway GW1 can realize a first communication method executed between the first controller 2 and the gateway GW1, and a second communication method executed between the gateway GW1 and the wireless dimmers D1 to Dr. In the first embodiment, the first controller 2 can automatically associate the gateway GW1 searched for in the first controller 2 with the facility F1. In the first embodiment, it is possible to prevent inconsistencies from occurring in the association related to the gateway GW1, thereby making it possible to improve the efficiency and reduce the labor required for the user's setting work.

[0071] Therefore, in the first embodiment, even a user who is unfamiliar with operating the first controller 2 can easily perform the setup operation.

[0072] In the first embodiment, the gateway GW1 has a DMX terminal 4 that can transmit a DMX signal from the gateway GW1 to a DMX fixture 9. This allows the gateway GW1 to be easily connected to the DMX fixture 9, and the gateway GW1 can easily control the DMX fixture 9. The DMX signal is a lighting control signal for, for example, stage lighting. Therefore, a user can connect the gateway GW1 to various types of lighting fixtures and use it to control them.

[0073] In the first embodiment, the gateway GW1 can receive a signal from the external device 10 by, for example, a non-voltage contact input via the external input terminal 5. This enables the gateway GW1 to link with the external device 10 and, for example, respond to a scene call from the external device 10. Furthermore, by connecting the gateway GW1 to a setting device using the external input terminal 5, the gateway GW1 can be set even before the lighting system 1 is operational, when the first controller 2 is not present, when the first controller 2 and the gateway GW1 cannot communicate with each other, or before the lighting system 1 is set up.

[0074] [Second embodiment] In the second embodiment, a modification of the first embodiment will be described. In the second embodiment, a plurality of gateways GW1 and GW2 are connected to each other so as to be able to communicate with each other, each having facility identification information indicating a common facility F1, and being associated with the common facility F1.

[0075] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a lighting system 11 according to the second embodiment.

[0076] In FIG. 4, the router 3, gateways GW1 and GW2, and facility F1 of the lighting system 11 are shown, and other components are omitted.

[0077] The gateways GW1 and GW2 are communicably connected to each other via a router 3. Each of the gateways GW1 and GW2 stores facility identification information 12 indicating the facility F1 with which the gateway GW1 and GW2 are associated.

[0078] The gateway GW1 corresponds to a first mesh network 13 formed by a plurality of wireless dimmers, and the gateway GW2 corresponds to a second mesh network 14 formed by a plurality of wireless dimmers.

[0079] For example, in a lighting system, there may be an upper limit on the number of nodes that can join a Bluetooth network. Such a restriction becomes an obstacle to installing more than the upper limit of nodes in the same facility F1.

[0080] In a lighting system 11 according to the second embodiment, gateways GW1 and GW2, each holding a common facility identification information 12, cooperate (interlock). For example, the processing unit 8 of the gateway GW1 communicates with a first mesh network 13 via a second communication unit 62, and cooperates with another gateway GW2 that holds the same identification information as the facility identification information 12 and wirelessly communicates with the second mesh network 62. For example, the gateways GW1 and GW2 may realize a scene corresponding to common scene information for the first mesh network 13 and the second mesh network. The gateways GW1 and GW2 cooperate with each other via a higher-level network such as a LAN, and control the first mesh network 13 corresponding to the gateway GW1 and the second mesh network 14 corresponding to the gateway GW2 as an integrated network.

[0081] In the second embodiment described above, the gateways GW1 and GW2 share the same facility identification information 12 and work together to treat the first mesh network 13 and the second mesh network 14 as devices of the same facility F1. Therefore, it is possible to install more nodes in the facility F1 than the number of nodes that can join a single Bluetooth network.

[0082] [Third embodiment] In the third embodiment, a specific example of the second controller C1 provided in the lighting system 1 according to the first embodiment or the lighting system 11 according to the second embodiment will be described.

[0083] FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the second controller C1 according to the third embodiment.

[0084] In the third embodiment, the second controller C1 is, for example, a wall scene switch. The wall scene switch is a switch attached to a wall. The second controller C1 can communicate with other devices wirelessly or via a wired connection, but the third embodiment will be described assuming that the second controller C1 can communicate via a wired connection.

[0085] For example, the second controller C1 is connected by wire to the gateway GW1 of the lighting systems 1 and 11 to supply power and perform intercommunication. The lighting systems 1 and 11 can be expanded with second controllers C1 by extension wiring.

[0086] To avoid data collisions when multiple second controllers C1 are installed in the facility F1, the second controller C1 stores unique controller identification information 15. By transmitting a signal and the controller identification information 15, the second controller C1 enables the receiver side to identify the source of the signal.

[0087] The gateway GW1 manages and arbitrates data communication timing for the corresponding second controller C1.

[0088] Communication between the second controller C1 and the gateway GW1 may be performed by digital serial communication.

[0089] The second controller C1 may be able to communicate with the wireless dimmers D1 to Dr via the gateway GW1, or may be able to communicate with the wireless dimmers D1 to Dr without going through the gateway GW1. The second controller C1, for example, transmits a signal indicating the content of a user's operation to the wireless dimmers D1 to Dr.

[0090] The second controller C1 includes, for example, an operation unit 16, a display unit 17, a connection unit 18, a communication unit 19, a storage unit 20, and a processing unit 21.

[0091] The operation unit 16 includes, for example, buttons or switches. The operation unit 16 accepts an operation by the user and transmits an operation signal indicating the content of the operation by the user to the processing unit 21.

[0092] The operation unit 16 may include, for example, a switch for setting an area or group to which the second controller C1 belongs, which allows the user to set the second controller C1 even when the first controller 2 is not present or when communication with the first controller 2 is not possible.

[0093] The display unit 17 includes, for example, an LED or a liquid crystal device, etc. The display unit 17 receives a display signal indicating, for example, the operation state of the operation unit 16 from the processing unit 21, and performs a display corresponding to the display signal.

[0094] The display unit 17 may include, for example, an LED and a transparent member (light guide member) that transmits the light emitted from the LED. The display unit 17 indicates the operating state of the operating unit 16 by turning on, off, or blinking.

[0095] The connection unit 18 is, for example, a connector that can be connected to a communication line. The connection unit 18 may include a plurality of terminals. The connection unit 18 is, for example, connected to the gateway GW1 so as to be able to communicate with it.

[0096] The connection 18 may be powered externally.

[0097] The communication unit 19 receives a signal from the gateway GW1 via the communication line and the connection unit 18, and transmits the signal to the processing unit 21. The communication unit 19 receives a signal from the processing unit 21, and transmits the signal to the gateway GW1 via the connection unit 18 and the communication line.

[0098] The communication unit 19 may, for example, wirelessly receive a signal from the wireless dimmers D1 to Dr and transmit the signal to the processing unit 21. The communication unit 19 may, for example, receive a signal from the processing unit 21 and wirelessly transmit the signal to the wireless dimmers D1 to Dr.

[0099] The storage unit 20 stores controller identification information 15 that indicates the second controller C1.

[0100] The storage unit 20 stores software 22 such as, for example, data used by the processing unit 21, data generated by the processing unit 21, a program used by the processing unit 21, data received from the gateway GW1 via the connection unit 18 and the communication unit 19, data to be transmitted to the gateway GW1 via the communication unit 19 and the connection unit 18, data received from the wireless dimmers D1 to Dr via the communication unit 19, and data to be transmitted to the wireless dimmers D1 to Dr via the communication unit 19. The software 22 stored in the storage unit 20 may include, for example, various setting values, scene information, and the like.

[0101] FIG. 6 is a front view showing an example of the second controller C1 according to the third embodiment.

[0102] Two vertical rows of buttons are arranged on the front of the second controller C1: buttons B1 to B5 are arranged from top to bottom on the left side, and buttons B6 to B10 are arranged from top to bottom on the right side.

[0103] Transparent members H1 to H5 are provided at the left ends (left side portions) of the left-side buttons B1 to B5. An LED inside the second controller C1 emits light according to the selection state of each of the buttons B1 to B5, and the light passes through each of the transparent members H1 to H5 and is emitted from the front side of the second controller C1.

[0104] Transparent members H6 to H10 are provided at the right ends (right sides) of the buttons B6 to B10 located on the right side, respectively. An LED inside the second controller C1 emits light according to the selection state of each of the buttons B6 to B10, and the light passes through each of the transparent members H6 to H10 and is emitted from the front side of the second controller C1.

[0105] The second controller C1 according to the third embodiment includes a timer button B5.

[0106] The second controller C1 may be provided on its rear surface with a connection section 18 and a setting switch of the operation section 16.

[0107] The following describes the effects obtained by the second controller C1 according to the third embodiment.

[0108] The second controller C1 is connected to the gateway GW1 by wire, and can communicate with the gateway GW1 and receive power.

[0109] The second controller C1 can be added by a feeder wiring.

[0110] Even when a plurality of second controllers C1 are installed, each of the second controllers C1 has unique controller identification information 15, so that data collisions can be avoided.

[0111] In the third embodiment, the gateway GW1 can manage and arbitrate the data communication timing.

[0112] Using the second controller C1, the user can switch between scenes.

[0113] By using the operation unit 16 of the second controller C1, the user can call up and switch scenes.

[0114] The operation unit 16 may detect the user's operation based on a short press, a long press, the number of consecutive short presses, or the number of consecutive long presses. For example, the user may be able to ignore the scene fade and immediately switch scenes by long pressing the operation unit 16. The user can temporarily brighten or darken the set scene by operating the operation unit 16. By using the second controller C1, the user can read and switch scenes even when the first controller 2 is not present or communication with the first controller 2 is not possible.

[0115] The user can operate the timer function of the second controller C1 using the button B5. The second controller C1 controls scenes according to schedule data included in the software 22 stored in the storage unit 20 using the timer function. The user can check the operating status of the timer function based on the presence or absence and color of light transmitted through the transparent member H5 located on the side of the button B5. For example, if the transparent member H5 emits red light, the annual schedule may be turned off. For example, if the transparent member H5 emits blue light, the annual schedule may be turned on. The user can pause and resume the annual schedule by, for example, long-pressing the button B5. This allows the user to switch the timer function even when the first controller 2 is not present or communication with the first controller 2 is not possible.

[0116] For example, a user can turn off the lights in area E1 by briefly pressing button B10, and can turn off the lights in facility F1 by long pressing button B10. When a user turns off the lights in facility F1 using second controller C1, second controller C1 transmits a signal indicating that the lights should be turned off to wireless dimmers D1 to Dr belonging to facility F1 via gateway GW1.

[0117] The second controller C1 notifies the user of the operating state in response to a scene called up by the user or an operation by the user, for example, by emitting an LED on the display unit 17. The second controller C1 is capable of transmitting light through transparent members H1 to H10 provided on both sides of the front surface.

[0118] In the second controller C1, the transparent members H1 to H10 visible to the user are arranged on both sides of the front surface of the second controller C1. Therefore, the display unit 17 of the second controller C1 may include a light guide that guides light from the internal LEDs to the transparent members H1 to H10 visible to the user on the front surface. In this case, the display unit 17 includes the LEDs, the light guide, and the transparent members H1 to H10. The transparent members H1 to H10 may be, for example, a light guide plate with a frosted surface. This allows light to be diffused and dispersed, improving user visibility. The display unit 17 includes the above-described display unit 17, allowing the user to check the operating status of the second controller C1.

[0119] The operation unit 16 of the second controller C1 includes, for example, a dip switch so that the user can configure the second controller C1 even before the lighting system 1, 11 is completed or before the setup of the lighting system 1, 11 is complete. For example, the user can specify an area E1 to be controlled by the second controller C1 by operating an area setting switch provided on the rear side of the second controller C1. The user can use the area setting switch to specify a single area E1 to be controlled, or can also specify multiple areas to be controlled.

[0120] The user can select (call up) specific scene information from among multiple pieces of scene information by using, for example, buttons B1 to B3 and B4 to B6 of the operation unit 16. For example, the second controller C1 collects six pieces of scene information and manages them as one page (block). The second controller C1 may have settings for five pages (30 pieces of scene information).

[0121] When the user presses and holds the button B10 of the operation unit 16, the second controller C1 may send a light-off signal to the wireless dimmers D1-Dr in the facility F1 to be controlled via the gateway GW1. This allows the user to turn off the lighting devices I1-Ir in all areas of the facility F1 to be controlled. Furthermore, the second controller C1 may send a light-off signal to at least one of the other gateways GW2-GWp via the gateway GW1 to turn off the lights in at least one of the other facilities F2-Fp.

[0122] [Fourth embodiment] The fourth embodiment is a modification of the first to third embodiments, and describes a case where the second controller C1 is a remote controller. In the following, the parts related to the remote controller will be described, and the other parts will be omitted or will be described briefly.

[0123] Fig. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a lighting system 24 including a remote controller 23 according to the fourth embodiment. Note that the various components illustrated in Fig. 7 may be freely combined or freely separated as long as they can achieve the same or similar functions and actions.

[0124] The lighting system 24 includes a first controller 2, a gateway GW1, a combination of a plurality of wireless dimmers D1 to Dr, dimmers A1 to Ar, and lighting devices I1 to Ir, and a remote controller 23 that corresponds to the above-mentioned second controller C1.

[0125] The first controller 2 is used to control the lighting system 24. The first controller 2 is a higher-level control device than the remote controller 23. The first controller 2 performs wireless communication with the multiple wireless dimmers D1 to Dr via the gateway GW1. More specifically, the first controller 2 and the gateway GW1 communicate with each other using a first communication method. The gateway GW1 and the multiple wireless dimmers D1 to Dr communicate with each other using a second communication method. The first communication method may include wireless LAN communication, and the second communication method may be Bluetooth.

[0126] The first controller 2 is used to set the remote controller 23. The first controller 2 and the remote controller 23 communicate with each other wirelessly, for example, via wireless LAN communication or Bluetooth.

[0127] The remote controller 23 receives setting information 25 from the first controller 2 using wireless communication, and stores the setting information 25 in the storage unit 20. The remote controller 23 accepts a change operation by the user via the operation unit 16, and stores change information 26 corresponding to the change operation in the storage unit 20. The remote controller 23 transmits the change information 26 to one or more wireless dimmers identified by identification information 27 included in the setting information 25.

[0128] The identification information 27 specifies, for example, at least one of the floor F1 of the destination (the control target of the remote controller 23), the area E1 of the destination, the group G1 of the destination, and the wireless dimmer D1 of the destination. As a result, the change information 26 is transmitted to the wireless dimmers D1 to Dr that belong to the floor F1 specified by the identification information 27, the wireless dimmers D1 to Dk that belong to the area E1 specified by the identification information 27, the wireless dimmers D1 to Dr that belong to the group G1 specified by the identification information 27, or the wireless dimmer D1 specified by the identification information 27.

[0129] The remote controller 23 may be sized to fit in a drawer of an office desk, for example. The remote controller 23 may have a magnet on the back so that it can be easily attached to various locations such as a desk, a door, or a whiteboard.

[0130] The remote controller 23 includes, for example, an operation unit 16, a display unit 17, a communication unit 19, a storage unit 20, and a processing unit 21.

[0131] The storage unit 20 stores, for example, setting information 25 received from the first controller 2, change information 26 indicating the operation content accepted by the operation unit 16, and the like.

[0132] The processing unit 21 stores the setting information 25 received from the first controller 2 via the communication unit 19 in the storage unit 20. The processing unit 21 generates change information 26 in accordance with the operation content received from the operation unit 16, and stores the generated change information 26 in the storage unit 20. Then, the processing unit 21 transmits the change information 26 stored in the storage unit 20 via the communication unit 19 to a wireless dimmer identified by the identification information 27 among the multiple wireless dimmers D1 to Dr in accordance with the operation content received from the operation unit 16.

[0133] The operation of the lighting system 24 equipped with the remote controller 23 according to the fourth embodiment will be described below.

[0134] The remote controller 23 has a built-in communication unit 19 capable of wireless communication, and can communicate setting information 25 and change information 26 with at least one of the plurality of wireless dimmers D1 to Dr. Settings of the remote controller 23 are performed by the first controller 2.

[0135] The remote controller 23 pairs with the first controller 2 and becomes capable of communication. The remote controller 23 stores setting information 25 received from the first controller 2. The setting information 25 includes identification information 27 indicating, for example, an area or a group. This allows the remote controller 23 to identify the wireless dimmer to be controlled, and the remote controller 23 becomes able to recognize the wireless dimmer to be controlled and change the scene of the wireless dimmer to be controlled.

[0136] The remote controller 23 can temporarily remove wireless dimmers in a specific area or group that has been set in advance from scene control even when the lighting system 24 is playing a scene.

[0137] Temporary changes to scene information made by the remote controller 23 include, for example, turning on the light, adjusting brightness, adjusting color temperature, turning off the light, etc. After changing the scene, the remote controller 23 can cancel the change and return to the original scene. The scene change may be continued until the scene change is canceled. Information related to the scene change may be discarded after the scene change is canceled, and may not affect the scene after the change is canceled.

[0138] While the scene is being changed by the remote controller 23, the wireless module of the wireless dimmer to be controlled stores the scene switching state set by the timer or the scene switching state received from the wall scene switch. When the remote controller 23 issues an instruction to return the scene (cancel the change), the wireless dimmer to be controlled can return to the stored scene switching state. Because the wireless module W1 receives an instruction from an external timer (for example, the first controller 2, the second controller C1, or the gateway GW1), there is no need for the wireless module W1 to have a timer function, which simplifies the configuration of the wireless module W1 and prevents cost increases even when a large number of wireless modules are introduced into the lighting system.

[0139] When the scene change is canceled, the wireless dimmer D1 that has received the scene change information 26 can achieve a state corresponding to the same scene information as the other wireless dimmers D2 to Dk that belong to the same area E1 or the same group G1, and can return to a lighting state according to the same scene information as the other wireless dimmers D2 to Dk.

[0140] The user can perform a scene restoration operation using the remote controller 23. In addition, the user may be able to set a scheduled automatic restoration. In this way, by adopting a setting to restore from a change at a specific time, it is possible to disable scene changes made by the remote controller 23 at a certain point in time.

[0141] FIG. 8 is a front view showing an example of the remote controller 23 according to the fourth embodiment.

[0142] The remote controller 23 has an ON / OFF button 28, a plus button 29, a minus button 30, a scene button (light control button) 31, a CCT button (color control button) 32, and a display unit 33 on the front side.

[0143] The ON / OFF button 28 accepts an operation to switch on and off the lighting device to be controlled. The plus button 29 accepts instructions to increase various values. The minus button 30 accepts instructions to decrease various values. The scene button 31 accepts an instruction to change the brightness state. The CCT button 32 accepts an instruction to change the color temperature state.

[0144] The remote controller 23 may be provided with a setup switch (not shown) on the rear surface thereof for receiving an instruction for initialization.

[0145] The remote controller 23 may be provided with a switch on the back (not shown) for receiving instructions to enter the power saving mode and return from the power saving mode.

[0146] The display unit 33 is, for example, an LED, and turns on, off, or blinks based on the state of the remote controller 23 and the state of the lighting system 24.

[0147] FIG. 9 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a lighting / extinguishing process executed by the lighting system 24 according to the fourth embodiment.

[0148] In S901 to S903, the first controller 2 executes pairing with the gateway GW1, executes pairing with the wireless dimmer D1, and becomes capable of communicating with the gateway GW1 and the wireless dimmer D1.

[0149] In S904, the first controller 2 transmits the scene information to the gateway GW1.

[0150] In S905, the gateway GW1 wirelessly receives the scene information from the first controller 2 and wirelessly transmits the scene information to the wireless dimmer D1.

[0151] In S906, the wireless dimmer D1 wirelessly receives the scene information from the gateway GW1 and stores the scene information.

[0152] In S907, the first controller 2 wirelessly transmits a lighting instruction to the gateway GW1.

[0153] In S908, the gateway GW1 wirelessly receives a turn-on instruction from the first controller 2, and wirelessly transmits the turn-on instruction to the wireless dimmer D1.

[0154] In S909, the wireless dimmer D1 wirelessly receives a turn-on instruction from the gateway GW1 and transmits a PWM signal based on the stored scene information to the dimmer A1.

[0155] In S910, the first controller 2 wirelessly transmits a light-off instruction to the gateway GW1.

[0156] In S911, the gateway GW1 wirelessly receives a turn-off instruction from the controller 2 and wirelessly transmits the turn-off instruction to the wireless dimmer D1.

[0157] In S912, the wireless dimmer D1 wirelessly receives a turn-off instruction from the gateway GW1 and transmits a turn-off signal to the dimmer A1.

[0158] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a change process and a change cancellation process executed by the lighting system 24 according to the fourth embodiment.

[0159] In S1001 to S1003, the first controller 2 executes pairing with the remote controller 23 to become communicable, and the remote controller 23 executes pairing with the wireless dimmer D1 to become communicable.

[0160] In S1004, the first controller 2 transmits the setting information 25, which includes, for example, the identification information 27 of the control target and the time information for canceling the change, to the gateway GW1 and the remote controller 23.

[0161] In S1005 and S1006, the gateway GW1 and the remote controller 23 receive the setting information 25 from the first controller 2 and store the setting information 25.

[0162] In S1007, the remote controller 23 wirelessly transmits the change information 26 to the wireless dimmer D1 designated by the identification information 27 of the setting information 25.

[0163] In S1008, the wireless dimmer D1 wirelessly receives the change information 26 from the remote controller 23 and transmits to the dimmer A1 a PWM signal corresponding to the change information 26. In this way, the scene change is realized.

[0164] In S1009, the remote controller 23 wirelessly transmits a change cancellation instruction to the wireless dimmer D1 specified by the identification information 27 of the setting information 25.

[0165] In S1010, the wireless dimmer D1 wirelessly receives a change cancellation instruction from the remote controller 23 and transmits a PWM signal corresponding to the original scene information to the dimmer A1, thereby canceling the scene change and restoring the scene.

[0166] In S1011, when the time for canceling the scheduled change specified by the time information included in the setting information 25 arrives, the gateway GW1 wirelessly transmits a scheduled change cancellation instruction to the wireless dimmer D1 specified by the identification information 27 of the setting information 25.

[0167] In S1012, the wireless dimmer D1 wirelessly receives a scheduled change cancellation instruction from the gateway GW1 and transmits a PWM signal corresponding to the original scene information to the dimmer A1. This cancels the scene change at the scheduled time and restores the scene.

[0168] The scheduled change cancellation instruction may be transmitted not only from the gateway GW1 but also from the first controller 2, from the remote controller 23, or may be generated by the wireless dimmer D1 itself.

[0169] In the fourth embodiment described above, it is possible to switch the control of a specific area E1, a specific group G1, or a specific wireless dimmer D1 based on a user's operation on the remote controller 23 or based on setting information 25 preset in the remote controller 23, without using the first controller 2, and to turn on / off, change the dimming level, or change the color level of the lighting device I1. The user can change the lighting state of only the intended part (specific area E1, specific group G1, specific wireless dimmer D1) without changing the entire scene.

[0170] In the fourth embodiment, the lighting state of the lighting device I1 that has been switched by the remote controller 23 can be restored to the original scene according to a user operation or at a fixed time.

[0171] [Fifth embodiment] In the fifth embodiment, the wireless dimmer D1 described in the first to fourth embodiments will be specifically described. In the following, the parts related to the wireless dimmer D1 will be described, and the description of other parts will be omitted or will be briefly described.

[0172] In the fifth embodiment, a lighting device I1 and a dimmer A1 that do not have wireless functionality are combined with a wireless dimmer D1, so that the lighting device I1 and the dimmer A1 are incorporated into a lighting system 1 that has wireless functionality. In the following, the lighting system 1 will be described as a representative example, but the same applies to the other lighting systems 11 and 24.

[0173] Fig. 11 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a wireless dimmer (power box) D1 according to the fifth embodiment. Note that the various components illustrated in Fig. 11 may be freely combined or separated as long as they can achieve the same or similar functions and actions.

[0174] For example, the wireless dimmer D1 and the dimming fixture A1 may be integrated into one device. For example, the dimming unit 34 and the dimming fixture A1 may be integrated into one device. In FIG. 11 , the dimming fixture A1 and the lighting device I1 may be collectively configured as a dimming lighting fixture. Dimming methods for dimming lighting fixtures include phase control, PWM control, PWM dimming and color adjustment, and DALI (registered trademark) (Digital Addressable Lighting Interface) control. The dimming fixture A1 may be, for example, a dimming-type separate power supply. A wireless dimmer D1 compatible with the dimming method of the dimming lighting fixture is connected to the dimming lighting fixture. The wiring between the dimming lighting fixture and the wireless dimmer D1 varies depending on the dimming method. For this reason, the user needs to connect the dimming lighting fixture and the wireless dimmer D1 with wiring compatible with the dimming method. In the fifth embodiment, even if there is an error in the wiring between the dimming lighting fixture and the wireless dimmer D1 during electrical work, it is possible to prevent the wireless dimmer D1 from being destroyed.

[0175] In FIG. 11, the router 3, the gateway GW1, and the second controller C1 are omitted.

[0176] The dimmer A1 receives power from the wireless dimmer D1. The dimmer A1 also receives a dimming signal from the wireless dimmer D1 and controls the lighting device I1 in accordance with the received dimming signal. The dimming signal may be, for example, a PWM signal.

[0177] The dimmer A1 and the wireless dimmer D1 are connected by a PWM signal line L.

[0178] The wireless dimmer D1 is connected to the lighting device I1 via a PWM signal line L and a dimmer A1 that does not have a wireless function. The wireless dimmer D1 is a device for linking the dimmer A1 and the lighting device I1 with a first controller 2 that performs wireless communication. The wireless dimmer D1 performs dimming using, for example, phase dimming, PWM dimming (monochrome or dimming / color adjustment), or on / off dimming, but the fifth embodiment will be described using PWM dimming as an example.

[0179] The wireless dimmer D1 includes a wireless module W1 and a dimming unit 34. The wireless module W1 and the dimming unit 34 are connected to each other so as to be able to communicate with each other and to be able to supply power thereto via a wired transmission path 35, such as a wire harness or a cable harness, that transmits signals and power.

[0180] The wireless module W1 receives a wireless signal from the first controller 2 via the router 3 and the gateway GW1 using wireless communication. The wireless module W1 is electrically connected to the dimming unit 34 via a wired transmission path 35. The wireless module W1 receives power from the dimming unit 34 via the wired transmission path 35. The wireless module W1 transmits a signal to the dimming unit 34 via the wired transmission path 35, and receives a signal from the dimming unit 34 via the wired transmission path 35.

[0181] The wireless module W1 is used by being electrically connected to the dimming unit 34. The wireless module W1 includes an operation unit 36, a display unit 37, a connection unit 38, and a communication module 39, for example.

[0182] The operation unit 36 ​​includes, for example, a button or a switch. The operation unit 36 ​​accepts a user operation and transmits an operation signal indicating the user operation to the communication module 39. The operation unit 36 ​​may include, for example, an area setting switch, a check switch, and a forced release (reset) switch. The area setting switch, the check switch, and the forced reset switch may be combined as appropriate. More specifically, the operation unit 36 ​​may include, for example, a dip switch or a push button switch.

[0183] The area setting switch can set identification information (for example, a number) of the area to which the wireless dimmer D1 belongs, and can also function as a start switch for the check mode.

[0184] For example, when the wireless module W1 is activated in a check mode, it turns on, turns off, or blinks the lighting device 4 according to a check pattern such as a lighting operation patterned on a time axis or a constant lighting state.

[0185] During the check mode, the forced reset switch may be used as a switch for switching between check mode patterns. Specifically, during the check mode, the forced reset switch accepts designation of one of a plurality of check modes. During the check mode, the wireless module W1 operates in the check mode designated by the forced reset switch.

[0186] In the fifth embodiment, the wireless module W1 can activate the check mode before performing pairing for wireless communication.

[0187] The display unit 37 includes, for example, an LED or a liquid crystal device. The display unit 37 receives a display signal indicating, for example, the status of the wireless module W1 or the lighting system 1 from the communication module 39, and displays information corresponding to the display signal. As a specific example, the display unit 37 may be independent monitor LEDs of a first color and a second color. The display unit 37 indicates the power supply status and communication status by turning on, off, or blinking.

[0188] The connection unit 38 can be connected to one end of the wired transmission path 35. One of the multiple terminals of the priority transmission path 35 connected to the connection unit 38 functions as a mode select terminal when the dimming unit 34 operates in the analog communication control mode.

[0189] The communication module 39 includes a communication antenna 40, a storage unit 41, and a calculation unit 42. The communication module 39 receives power from the dimming unit 34 via the wired transmission path 35 and the connection unit 38. The communication module 39 communicates with the first controller 2 via the router 3 and the gateway GW1. The communication module 26 communicates with the second controller C1 wirelessly, either via the gateway GW1 or without via the gateway GW1. The communication module 39 communicates with the dimming unit 34 via a wired connection path 38 and the wired transmission path 35.

[0190] The communication antenna 40 receives radio waves and transmits electrical signals to the calculation unit 42 .

[0191] The storage unit 41 stores, for example, data generated by the calculation unit 42, data used by the calculation unit 42, or software such as a program used by the calculation unit 42. The software stored in the storage unit 41 may include, for example, various setting values, data received from the first controller 2, data received from the second controller C1, data received from the gateway GW1, or data received from the dimming unit 34. The storage unit 41 may store, for example, scene information, affiliation information indicating the floor area group to which the wireless module W1 belongs, and the like.

[0192] The calculation unit 42 may be, for example, a microcomputer or a processor. The calculation unit 42 executes various processes, such as communication processes, determination processes, and check mode processes, based on software stored in the storage unit 41.

[0193] The calculation unit 42 wirelessly communicates with the first controller 2 via the communication antenna 40, the gateway GW1, and the router 3 in accordance with various processes. The calculation unit 42 uses the communication antenna 40 to communicate with the second controller C1 via the gateway GW1 or without passing through the gateway GW1 in accordance with various processes. The calculation unit 42 communicates with the dimming unit 34 via the connection unit 38 and the wired transmission path 35 in accordance with various processes. An example of the processes executed by the calculation unit 42 will be described later using the flowchart of FIG. 12.

[0194] The calculation unit 42 includes a function for automatically determining different types of communication control modes (for example, communication control format, communication specification, and communication method). The calculation unit 42 determines the communication control mode based on at least one of the electrical connection state of a specific terminal (pin) in the connection unit 38 (the electrical connection state between the wireless module W1 and the dimming unit 34) or the communication state, for example.

[0195] The calculation unit 42 executes a plurality of different types of communication control modes in communication with the dimming unit 34. Because the calculation unit 42 is compatible with a plurality of different types of communication control modes, one wireless module W1 can be applied to different types of dimming units 34. As a specific example, the calculation unit 42 is compatible with any of an analog communication control mode, a single-channel digital communication control mode (serial communication), a two-channel digital communication control mode (serial communication), and a multi-channel digital communication control mode (serial communication).

[0196] The calculation unit 42 executes the check mode depending on the state of the operation unit 36, such as a DIP switch. Therefore, the calculation unit 42 can test the connection and operation of the wireless module W1, the dimming unit 34, the dimmer A1, and the lighting device I1 even when the first controller 2 is not present or when communication with the first controller 2 is not possible. Specifically, when the calculation unit 42 executes the check mode (or test mode), it controls the lighting, such as turning on, turning off, blinking, dimming, and color adjustment, based on the check pattern stored in the storage unit 41. By checking that the lighting device I1 emits light in accordance with the check mode, the user can check the connection and operation of the wireless module W1, the dimming unit 34, the dimmer A1, and the lighting device I1. This allows the user to check the wiring from the wireless module W1 to the lighting device I1 without pairing the first controller 2 and the wireless module W1. The calculation unit 42 executing the check mode improves on-site operability and allows the user to perform inspections before setting up the lighting system 1.

[0197] The calculation unit 42 can set the area to which the wireless dimmer D1 belongs, depending on the state of the operation unit 36, such as a DIP switch. Therefore, even before the construction or setup of the lighting system 1 is completed, or even when the lighting system 1 cannot be energized, the area or group can be set in advance in the wireless module W1 by a user operation. This can shorten the time required to set up the devices and the area or group, which are required after the construction or setup of the lighting system 1 or after the start of energization, and can reduce the burden on the user.

[0198] The calculation unit 42 forcibly cancels the pairing (provisioning) performed by the first controller 2, depending on the state of the operation unit 36, for example, by pressing a push button switch. Generally, only the first controller 2 that performed the setting could cancel the pairing, but in the second embodiment, the user manually operates the forced cancel switch, and the calculation unit 42 cancels the pairing. As a result, if the first controller 2 breaks down or is lost, or if the first controller 2 and the wireless module W1 cannot communicate with each other, the pairing between the wireless module W1 and the first controller 2 can be canceled and a re-setup can be performed from the first controller 2 or a new controller.

[0199] The calculation unit 42 may generate a lighting control signal based on, for example, scene information stored in the memory unit 41, and transmit the lighting control signal to the dimming unit 34 via the connection unit 38 and the wired transmission path 35.

[0200] The dimming unit 34 receives power from an external power source and performs power conversion. The dimming unit 34 supplies the converted power to the lighting device I1 via the dimmer A1. The dimming unit 34 is connected to the wireless module W1 via a wired transmission path 35. The dimming unit 34 transmits signals to the wireless module W1 via the wired transmission path 35 and receives signals from the wireless module W1 via the wired transmission path 35. The dimming unit 34 supplies the converted power to the wireless module W1 via the wired transmission path 35. The dimming unit 34 includes a connection unit 43, a memory unit 44, an operation unit 45, a processing unit 46, a power conversion unit 47, a dimming unit (e.g., a dimming circuit) 48, a display unit 49, and an abnormality detection unit (e.g., an abnormality detection circuit) 50. The processing unit 46 and the dimming unit 48 may be combined into one component. The processing unit 46 and the abnormality detection unit 50 may be combined into one component. Other components may also be combined as appropriate.

[0201] The connection portion 43 can be connected to the other end of the wired transmission path 35. The connection portion 43 includes a plurality of terminals.

[0202] The storage unit 44 stores, for example, data generated by the processing unit 46, data used by the processing unit 46, or software such as a program used by the processing unit 46. The software stored in the storage unit 44 may include, for example, various setting values, data received from the wireless module W1, etc. More specifically, the storage unit 44 stores, for example, a power supply type code and a communication format.

[0203] The operation unit 45 includes, for example, a button (for example, a push button switch) or a switch (for example, a DIP switch). The operation unit 45 accepts a user's operation and transmits an operation signal indicating the user's operation to the processing unit 46. The operation unit 45 may include, for example, a check switch.

[0204] The processing unit 46 may be, for example, a microcomputer or a processor. The processing unit 46 executes various processes based on software stored in the storage unit 44 in accordance with instructions from the operation unit 45.

[0205] The processing unit 46 controls the power conversion unit 47, the light control unit 48, the display unit 49, and the abnormality detection unit 50 in accordance with various processes, and communicates with the wireless module W1 via the connection unit 43 and the wired transmission path 35.

[0206] In the fifth embodiment, the processing unit 46 executes the check mode in accordance with the operation state (e.g., the state of a check switch) of the operation unit 45. The processing unit 46 may activate the check mode by itself, or may cooperate with the abnormality detection unit 50 in the check mode to detect abnormalities, or may cooperate with the check mode of the wireless module W1. By operating the processing unit 46 in the check mode, the user can check the wiring of, for example, the PWM signal line L and various other operations.

[0207] The power conversion unit 47 operates under the control of the processing unit 46 and converts the power supplied from the power source. For example, the power conversion unit 47 converts the voltage, current, and frequency of the current supplied from the power source into predetermined voltage, current, and frequency. The power conversion unit 47 supplies the converted power to the memory unit 44, the operation unit 45, the processing unit 46, the dimmer unit 48, the display unit 49, and the abnormality detection unit 50. The power conversion unit 47 supplies the converted power to the dimmer A1 via the dimmer unit 48, and to the wireless module W1 via the connection unit 43 and the wired transmission path 35.

[0208] Dimming unit 48 receives the converted power from power conversion unit 47 and supplies the power to dimmer A1. Specifically, dimming unit 48 converts the supplied DC power into a constant voltage or constant current, or performs PWM control, generates a dimming signal, and transmits the generated dimming signal to dimmer A1. In the second embodiment, a case will be described as an example in which a PWM signal, which is an analog signal, is supplied from dimmer 35 to dimmer A1, but the analog signal may be a signal of another type.

[0209] The abnormality detection unit 50 executes an abnormality detection process in cooperation with the processing unit 46. When an abnormality is detected, the abnormality detection unit 50 stops the operation of the wireless dimmer D1, thereby preventing a failure of the wireless dimmer D1 and protecting the wireless dimmer D1. The abnormality detection unit 50 may be, for example, a PWM wiring protection circuit. The abnormality detection unit 50 may operate constantly while the wireless dimmer D1 is powered on and detect an abnormality. When an abnormality occurs, the processing unit 46 may stop the output of the wireless dimmer D1 and transmit abnormality information to the first controller 2 via the wired transmission path 35 and the wireless module W1.

[0210] The abnormality detection process executed by the abnormality detection unit 50 and the processing unit 46 in cooperation with each other will be described below.

[0211] For example, in a conventional dimmer that requires PWM wiring for dimming, incorrect wiring or a short circuit in the wiring can cause a failure or destruction of the circuit that outputs the signal. To prevent such failure or destruction, conventional dimmers use a fuse or a similar protective element to prevent the circuit from failing or being destroyed.

[0212] For example, when using a general protective fuse to prevent circuit failure or destruction, the fuse must be physically replaced to restore operation. If the fuse is an automatic reset type, a continued short circuit will repeatedly interrupt and reset the circuit, causing a physical failure and requiring the automatic reset fuse to be replaced. If the automatic reset fuse is mounted on a circuit board, the circuit board itself may need to be replaced.

[0213] To address this issue, the fifth embodiment uses an anomaly detection unit 50 to detect anomalies. More specifically, the dimming unit 34 according to the fifth embodiment detects anomalies such as a short circuit in the PWM signal line L. The anomaly detection unit 50 includes, for example, a polyswitch. The polyswitch increases its resistance at high temperatures and eventually shuts off the circuit. In the fifth embodiment, for example, one end of the polyswitch is connected to one end of the signal line to be monitored, and the other end of the polyswitch is connected to the other end. The anomaly detection unit 50 transmits a voltage signal indicating the voltage across the polyswitch to the processing unit 46. The processing unit 46 receives the voltage signal from the anomaly detection unit 50 and detects an anomaly based on, for example, the amount of change in voltage per unit time. If an anomaly is detected, the processing unit 46 stops the operation or output of the circuit being monitored by the anomaly detection unit 50. This significantly reduces the risk of failure or destruction of the wireless dimmer and prevents the need for circuit replacement.

[0214] In the fifth embodiment, for example, even if the PWM signal line L or the monitored circuit is short-circuited, the protection function is activated, so that the wireless dimmer D1 can be prevented from failing, and the lighting device I1 can be turned on again if the cause of the abnormality is eliminated.

[0215] When the processing unit 46 detects an abnormality, it transmits the abnormality information to the first controller 2 via the wired transmission path 35 and the wireless module W1. The first controller 2 displays the abnormality information using application software, allowing the user to check the abnormality detected by the wireless dimmer D1.

[0216] The automatic communication mode setting operation executed by the wireless module W1 will be described below.

[0217] In the fifth embodiment, the wireless module W1 automatically determines whether the communication performed between the wireless module W1 and the dimming unit 34 conforms to the analog communication control mode or the digital communication control mode, and further, if it is determined that the communication conforms to the digital communication control mode, automatically determines which of multiple types of digital communication control modes the communication conforms to.

[0218] In the fifth embodiment, the analog communication control mode is the PWM communication mode, but the analog communication control mode may be another analog communication control mode. Also, the digital communication control mode is the serial communication mode, but the digital communication control mode may be another communication mode, such as a parallel communication mode.

[0219] Here, the relationship between the first controller 2 and the wireless modules W1 to Wr will be described. In the fifth embodiment, the lighting system 1 includes a plurality of wireless modules W1 to Wr, and the first controller 2 performs wireless communication with the plurality of wireless modules W1 to Wr. The wireless modules W1 to Wr may perform different communication during pairing for wireless communication and after pairing. More specifically, during pairing, the plurality of wireless modules W1 to Wr and the first controller 2 may be directly connected wirelessly, and after pairing, a group of the paired plurality of wireless modules W1 to Wr may be connected to each other so that they can communicate with each other, and wireless communication may be performed using a plurality of communication paths.

[0220] In general one-to-one or one-to-many communication, the radio wave transmission distance is the distance of the direct arrival wave. In such general one-to-one or one-to-many communication, the transmitting device and the receiving device are susceptible to the physical distance or radio wave attenuation. In contrast, as described above, in the lighting system 2 in which multiple wireless modules W1 to Wr can communicate with each other, a radio wave transmission path can be formed by the paired multiple wireless modules W1 to Wr. In other words, each of the multiple wireless modules W1 to Wr can function not only as a communication device with the first controller 2, but also as a repeater for other wireless modules.

[0221] FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed by the wireless module W1 according to the fifth embodiment.

[0222] When power supply from the dimming unit 34 starts, the wireless module W1 proceeds to a determination process of the dimming unit 34 and determines the type of connected power source. After startup, the wireless module W1 determines the communication mode and then determines the state of the area setting switch. If the state of the area setting switch indicates the check mode, the wireless module W1 transmits a check pattern corresponding to the check mode to the dimming unit 34.

[0223] In step S1201, the calculation unit 42 determines whether a specific terminal of the wired transmission path 35 connected to the connection unit 38 functions as a mode select terminal in PWM mode based on the state (e.g., a change in voltage) of the specific terminal. The calculation unit 42 determines PWM on when the specific terminal functions as a mode select terminal, and determines PWM off when the specific terminal does not function as a mode select terminal. More specifically, the calculation unit 42 determines whether PWM is on based on, for example, whether the voltage of the specific terminal is 0 V or the supply voltage. This determination by the wireless module W1 can be easily realized even if the dimming unit 34 does not include a microcomputer. Therefore, the wireless module W1 can be connected to a dimming unit that does not include a microcomputer.

[0224] If PWM is on (the state of a specific terminal of wired transmission path 35 connected to connection unit 38 corresponds to the state of the mode select terminal), in step S1202, calculation unit 42 starts up in PWM communication control mode. After starting up in PWM communication control mode, in step S1203, calculation unit 42 determines the state of an area setting switch included in operation unit 36. The area setting switch can select an area. The area setting switch can also select a check mode (test mode). The area setting switch may be a DIP switch that can specify multiple on / off states.

[0225] If the area setting switch is in a state to select the check mode (for example, if a plurality of dip switches are all on), the calculation unit 42 executes the check mode in step S1204, and then the process returns to step S1203.

[0226] If the area setting switch is in a state to select an area (for example, if one of the multiple dip switches is on and the other dip switches are off), in step S1205, the calculation unit 42 cooperates with the dimming unit 34 to perform operation in PWM communication control mode for the area indicated by the area setting switch.

[0227] If PWM is off in S1201 above, in step S1206, the calculation unit 42 determines the type of digital communication control mode (data communication format) to be applied to communication between the wireless module W1 and the dimming unit 34. For example, the calculation unit 42 transmits a signal based on the first digital communication control mode to the dimming unit 34. If the calculation unit 42 receives a normal response from the dimming unit 34, the calculation unit 42 selects the first digital communication control mode. If the calculation unit 42 does not receive a normal response from the dimming unit 34, the calculation unit 42 may select the second digital communication control mode. Alternatively, if the calculation unit 42 does not receive a normal response from the dimming unit 34, the calculation unit 42 may transmit a signal based on the second digital communication control mode to the dimming unit 34, and if the calculation unit 42 receives a normal response from the dimming unit 34, the calculation unit 42 may select the second digital communication control mode.

[0228] If the first digital communication control mode is selected in step S1206, the calculation unit 42 starts up in the first digital communication control mode in step S1207. After starting up in the first digital communication control mode, the calculation unit 42 determines the state of the area setting switch included in the operation unit 36 ​​in step S1208.

[0229] If the area setting switch is in a state for selecting the check mode in step S1208, the calculation unit 42 executes the check mode in step S1209, and then the process returns to step S1208.

[0230] If the area setting switch is in a state for selecting an area in step S1208, then in step S1210, the calculation unit 42 executes operation in the first digital communication control mode for the area indicated by the area setting switch.

[0231] If the second digital communication control mode is selected in step S1206, the calculation unit 42 starts up in the second digital communication control mode in step S1211. After starting up in the second digital communication control mode, the calculation unit 42 determines the state of the area setting switch included in the operation unit 36 ​​in step S1212.

[0232] If the area setting switch is in a state for selecting the check mode in step S1212, the calculation unit 42 executes the check mode in step S1213, and then the process returns to step S1212.

[0233] If the area setting switch is in a state for selecting an area in step S1212, the calculation unit 42 performs operation in the second digital communication control mode for the area indicated by the area setting switch in step S1214.

[0234] In FIG. 12, the determination in step S1201 is, for example, determining the state (voltage or potential) of the mode select terminal of the wired transmission path 35 connected to the connection unit 25 of the wireless module W1.

[0235] In step S1206, communication is performed in a specific communication control mode, and the communication control mode is determined based on the reception state of the response.

[0236] The determinations in steps S1203, S1208, and S1212 are made by electrically determining the state of the mode select switch.

[0237] In the fifth embodiment, the determination of the communication control mode may be expanded or added after step S1206.

[0238] The calculation unit 42 stores the above-mentioned various determination results or type information of the communication control mode in the storage unit 41, and transmits the determination results or type information to the first controller 2 in response to a request from the first controller 2.

[0239] When the calculation unit 42 transitions to the digital communication control mode, it receives the power source specific identification information from the dimming unit 34 via the wired transmission path 35 and the connection unit 38 in accordance with the request received from the first controller 2, stores the power source specific identification information in the memory unit 41, and transmits the power source specific identification information to the first controller 2. If the memory unit 41 has already saved the power source specific identification information, the calculation unit 42 may read out the power source specific identification information stored in the memory unit 41 and transmit the read power source specific identification information to the first controller 2.

[0240] When the calculation unit 42 receives a designation signal for the area setting mode or the group setting mode from the first controller 2, it may forcibly switch the determination results of steps S1203, S1208, and S1212 for the area or group designated by this designation signal, and store this forcibly switched state in the storage unit 41. This allows the area or group setting to be switched remotely.

[0241] In the fifth embodiment described above, even if the lighting device I1 and the dimmer A1 do not have wireless functionality, by combining the lighting device I1 and the dimmer A1 with a wireless dimmer D1, the lighting device I1 and the dimmer A1 can be incorporated into the lighting system 1 that has wireless functionality.

[0242] In the fifth embodiment, the wireless dimmer D1 executes a check mode before the setup of the lighting system 1 is completed, and operation confirmation and wiring check by the abnormality detection unit 50 and the processing unit 46 can be performed even before the setup of the lighting system 1.

[0243] In the fifth embodiment, the processing unit 46 and the abnormality detection unit 50 cooperate to detect an abnormality, and when an abnormality is detected, the abnormality detection unit 50 stops the operation or output of the circuit being monitored. This can significantly reduce the failure or destruction of the wireless dimmer D1 and prevent the need for circuit replacement, etc.

[0244] In the fifth embodiment, when an abnormality is detected in the wireless dimmer D1, the first controller 2 displays abnormality information, which allows the user to check the abnormality that has occurred in the wireless dimmer D1.

[0245] In the fifth embodiment, even if the dimmer A1 and the lighting device I1 do not support wireless communication and do not have an abnormality detection function, by connecting the wireless dimmer D1 according to the fifth embodiment to the dimmer A1, wireless communication and abnormality detection become possible, thereby ensuring the safety of the operation of the lighting system 1.

[0246] The wireless dimmer D1 according to the fifth embodiment may transmit the abnormality information to the first controller 2 via the gateway GW1, the router 3, or the Internet. This allows the user to monitor the lighting system 1 through the first controller 2.

[0247] A wireless dimmer D1 according to the fifth embodiment includes an operation unit 36. Conventionally, in order to check whether a lighting device I1 and a dimmer A1 are turned on, it was necessary to wire them on-site and pair them with the first controller 2. In contrast, in the fifth embodiment, the lighting can be turned on / off using the operation unit 36 ​​included in the wireless dimmer D1, and wiring can be checked in check mode without pairing. This improves the user's on-site operability and allows wiring to be checked before setup.

[0248] In the fifth embodiment, a lighting system 1 can be constructed using a single wireless module W1 that can be applied to multiple types of communication control modes. In the fifth embodiment, various types of dimming units 34 can be connected to the wireless module W1.

[0249] In the fifth embodiment, the wireless module W1 automatically determines the communication control mode of the dimming unit 34 based on a change in terminal voltage and whether communication is possible, and switches the communication control mode. This reduces the labor required to build the lighting system 1 and shortens the time required.

[0250] In the fifth embodiment, even before the lighting system 1 is operational, when the first controller 2 is not present, when the first controller 2 and the wireless module W1 cannot communicate, or before the lighting system 1 is set up, it is possible to set an area or group by operating the operation unit 36 ​​of the wireless module W1.

[0251] In the fifth embodiment, by executing the check mode in the wireless module W1, the user can check the on / off, dimming, or color adjustment status of the lighting device I1 before the lighting system 1 is operational, when the first controller 2 is not present, when the first controller 2 and the wireless module W1 cannot communicate, or before the lighting system 1 is set up. This allows the user to proceed with the check work while building the lighting system 1, thereby improving work efficiency and the reliability of the lighting system 1. Furthermore, in the fifth embodiment, the wiring of the lighting device I1 can be checked without pairing. This also improves the user's on-site operability and allows the wiring to be checked before setup.

[0252] In the fifth embodiment, the wireless module W1 is provided with an operation unit 36, such as a dip switch or a push button switch, and area setting and forced cancellation of pairing can be performed by operating the operation unit 36. Furthermore, area setting, group setting, and establishment or cancellation of pairing can also be performed using the first controller 2. For example, when the first controller 2 controls pairing, area setting, and group setting for multiple lighting devices, it was previously necessary to display and sort multiple devices on the screen of the first controller 2. However, in the fifth embodiment, pairing-related instructions, area setting, and group setting can be performed on each of the wireless modules W1 to Wr, eliminating the need to display and sort multiple devices on the first controller 2 and give pairing-related instructions, area setting, and group setting. Therefore, the user can easily and efficiently sort devices during pairing.

[0253] Generally, in pairing by the first controller 2, a plurality of powered-on wireless modules W1 to Wr are searched for all at once. The user is required to classify the plurality of wireless modules W1 to Wr searched for all at once and divide them into areas E1 to En using the first controller 2. However, in the lighting system 1 according to the fifth embodiment, the area setting switches of the wireless modules W1 to Wr are set in advance before pairing, thereby reducing the user's workload.

[0254] In the fifth embodiment, the dimming unit 34 may be a wireless lighting fixture. In this case, the lighting fixture A1 may be equipped with various detection circuits. Examples of the various detection circuits include circuits for detecting secondary overcurrent, abnormal temperature, and circuit failure. When the detection circuit detects an abnormality, the processing unit 46 processes the abnormality code. The processing unit 46 transmits the abnormality code to the wireless module W1 via the connection unit 43 and the wired transmission path 35.

[0255] When replacing the wireless dimmer D1 according to the fifth embodiment with a new wireless dimmer, data such as scene information stored in multiple other wireless dimmers can be transmitted to the new wireless dimmer and installed. This eliminates the need for the user to perform initial settings on the new wireless dimmer, and allows the user to easily transfer data from the other wireless dimmers to the new wireless dimmer.

[0256] [Sixth embodiment] The sixth embodiment is a modified example of the wireless dimmer D1 described in the fifth embodiment.

[0257] Fig. 13 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a wireless dimmer D1 according to a sixth embodiment. In the wireless dimmer D1 of Fig. 13, only the components of the wireless dimmer D1 of Fig. 11 that will be described in the sixth embodiment are shown, and the other components are omitted.

[0258] A wireless dimmer D1 according to the sixth embodiment has two PWM output systems LA and LB. The wireless dimmer D1 transmits a PWM signal to the dimmer A1 via the two PWM output systems LA and LB.

[0259] A wireless dimmer D1 according to the sixth embodiment includes a microcomputer 51, abnormality detection units 53A and 53B, and resistors 54A and 54B.

[0260] Microcomputer 51 includes PWM dimming signal circuit 52A corresponding to PWM output system LA and PWM dimming signal circuit 52B corresponding to PWM output system LB. PWM dimming signal circuits 52A and 52B generate PWM signals and transmit the generated PWM signals to lighting fixture A1 via PWM output systems LA and LB.

[0261] The microcomputer 51 monitors the PWM signal (voltage) output from the PWM dimming signal circuit 52A to the PWM output system LA, and further monitors the PWM signal output from the PWM dimming signal circuit 52B to the PWM output system LB. The microcomputer 51 functions as the processing unit 46 and the dimming unit 48 in Fig. 11. When the microcomputer 51 is started up and placed in a power-on state, it starts detecting an abnormality.

[0262] The abnormality detection units 53A and 53B are connected in series with the PWM dimming signal circuits 52A and 52B, respectively, and monitor the voltage at the end of a resistor or a polyswitch, for example.

[0263] The abnormality detection units 53A and 53B output the measured value of the voltage of the PWM signal (for example, the actual measured value or the captured value) to the microcomputer 51 via resistors 54A and 54B, respectively.

[0264] The microcomputer 51 compares the theoretical value with the measured value, and detects an abnormality if the difference exceeds a predetermined range.

[0265] Typically, PWM signals for lighting control (such as dimming signals) are pulse waveforms with a frequency of 1 kHz and a voltage of around 12 VDC. The off signal is 12 VDC. Increasing the dimming level represented by the PWM signal (making it brighter) lengthens the off period in the PWM signal waveform. As this off period becomes longer, it becomes weaker when converted into voltage. Also, there are cases where it is not possible to expect a current increase large enough to activate a polyswitch. For this reason, it is difficult to detect abnormalities in PWM signals with long off periods.

[0266] However, in the sixth embodiment, the microcomputer 51 compares the theoretical value with the measured value to detect an abnormality, so that an abnormality can be detected even if the value obtained by converting the PWM signal into a voltage (for example, the dimming level) is weak.

[0267] FIG. 14 is a graph showing an example of the relationship between the voltage and the average voltage of a PWM signal. PWM is called pulse width modulation. In PWM, the average voltage is controlled by changing the width (Tp) of pulses generated at regular intervals (T). For example, when the on-period of the waveform is long, the lighting device I1 emits light dimly, and when the on-period is short, the lighting device I1 emits light brightly. The wireless dimmer D1 controls the output of the PWM signal in this way. In the abnormality detection process, the wireless dimmer D1 according to the sixth embodiment performs analog-to-digital conversion of the PWM signal using an AD conversion circuit and feeds the converted signal back to the microcomputer 51. The wireless dimmer D1 then detects an abnormality when the difference between the theoretical value of the output PWM signal and the fed-back measured value remains outside a predetermined range for a predetermined period of time or longer.

[0268] In the sixth embodiment described above, the wireless dimmer D1 has two PWM output systems LA and LB, and the two PWM output systems LA and LB are provided with abnormality detection units 53A and 53B, respectively, and the microcomputer 51 performs abnormality detection for the two PWM output systems LA and LB by comparing theoretical values ​​with measured values. This allows abnormality detection to be performed regardless of the dimming degree indicated by the PWM dimming signal.

[0269] [Seventh embodiment] The seventh embodiment will explain the relationship between information stored in the wireless modules W1 to Wr and controllers (hereinafter referred to as slave controllers) used as subordinates (slave controllers) of the first controller 2. In the following explanation, the wireless module W1, lighting system 1, gateway GW1, and second controller C1 will be explained as representatives, but the same applies to the wireless modules W2 to Wr, lighting systems 11, 24, gateways GW2 to GWp, and second controllers C2 to Cp.

[0270] The lighting system 1 plays back a scene using one or more lighting devices I1 to Ir. To improve convenience for operators and users, the lighting system 1 may be capable of realizing two types of modifications, namely, a first modification and a second modification, to a standard scene.

[0271] The first change is, for example, a mode including leaving the standard scene, a temporary change, and returning to the standard scene. The second change is, for example, a mode for fine-tuning a standard scene.

[0272] The first change and the second change have in common that they both change a standard scene based on an operator's or user's operation on the slave controller, but they differ in that the priorities of the changes are different.

[0273] In order to prioritize change operations on the slave controllers, the lighting system 1 includes multiple types of slave controllers and stores various types of information in the storage unit 41 of the wireless module W1. The wireless module W1 executes processing based on the information in the storage unit 41.

[0274] As a specific example, the memory unit 41 of the wireless module W1 stores, for example, network information, unique identification information of the wireless module W1, facility information (including facility identification information), area information (area identification information), group information (including group identification information), at least one scene information (including, for example, scene level and fade time information), change information (for example, private mode level or user priority mode level), change return scene information (for example, private mode return scene level), temporary change information (temporary change level), and final state information (current state level for power outage recovery).

[0275] The network information may include a network code (e.g., a mesh network key) that is assigned at the time of pairing by the operation of the first controller 2. The network information may also include login key information for functioning on the same network.

[0276] The unique identification information, facility information, area information, group information, and scene information are information used in the standard operation and communication of the lighting system 1. The unique identification information, facility information, area information, group information, and scene information are set by the first controller 2, transmitted from the first controller 2 to the wireless module W1, and stored in the memory unit 41 of the wireless module W1.

[0277] The change information and the change-return scene information are generated by an operator or a user using a first slave controller capable of wireless communication with the wireless module W1, and are transmitted from the first slave controller to the wireless module W1 and stored in the memory unit 41 of the wireless module W1. The change information and the change-return scene information are used to realize the above-mentioned first change (leaving the standard scene, temporary change, returning to the standard scene) or the above-mentioned second change (fine-tuning the standard scene).

[0278] The first slave controller may be, for example, a remote controller 23. By using the remote controller 23, an operator or user can control the brightness and color of lighting devices I1 belonging to a specific area or a specific group without using the first controller 2. For example, the operator or user can brighten the lighting devices I1 above him or her without changing the overall scene. In addition, the operator or user can turn off only the lighting devices I1 of a specific group, for example, during a meeting.

[0279] The change information is, for example, a value that is changed when leaving a scene by the remote controller 23. A transition to a scene corresponding to the change information and the changed return scene information is performed by an operator or a user operating the remote controller 23 that has been set in advance by the first controller 2.

[0280] The change information may include, for example, values ​​relating to brightness and color that have been changed or adjusted by an operator or user operating the remote controller 23.

[0281] The change information is high-priority scene information (including brightness and color levels) set by an operator or user using the remote controller 23. When the first controller 2 or the second controller C1 calls the change information stored in the storage unit 28 of the wireless module W1, the wireless module W1 executes a process to leave the scene being played and play the scene corresponding to the change information. Because the mode for playing the scene corresponding to this change information has a high priority, playback of the scene in the change information set by the operator or user is maintained while the scene corresponding to the change information is being played. Even if the wireless module W1 receives a scene change instruction from the schedule timer of the first controller 2, the second controller C1, or the gateway GW1, the wireless module W1 prioritizes the scene in the change information and maintains the scene in the change information, and does not reflect the scene change instruction received from the schedule timer of the first controller 2, the second controller C1, or the gateway GW1 until it receives a scene return instruction or a forced return instruction from the first controller 2. Then, the wireless module W1 stores the contents of the scene change instruction received from the first controller 2, the second controller C1, or the schedule timer of the gateway GW1 in the storage unit 41 as changed restoration scene information.

[0282] The changed restoration scene information includes a value of the scene (e.g., brightness or color) when restoring from a state in which a scene corresponding to the change information is being played back. The wireless module W1 does not call this changed restoration scene information until it receives a scene return instruction based on an operation by an operator or a user, or a forced return instruction from the first controller 2. When the wireless module W1 receives a scene return instruction or a forced return instruction, it calls the changed restoration scene information and executes processing to play back the scene corresponding to the changed restoration scene information.

[0283] In the seventh embodiment, the change information and the restored scene information have a paired relationship. The wireless module W1 constantly manages the restored scene information, which includes the scene number and level information at the time of restoration, in the storage unit 41.

[0284] When scene playback is being performed for a specific area based on specific scene information, the wireless module W1 can cause a specific group belonging to this specific area to leave the scene by using, for example, change information. In a situation where scene playback is occurring, for example, a transition from first scene information (e.g., night scene information) to second scene information (e.g., morning scene information) occurs for the specific area. In this case, the wireless module W1 also transitions the changed restoration scene information from the first scene information to the second scene information. Upon returning, the wireless module W1 retrieves and plays back the changed restoration scene information corresponding to the second scene information, thereby playing back a scene that is consistent with other wireless modules belonging to the same area. This allows appropriate scene playback even if the applied scene information changes over time.

[0285] The remote controller 23 transmits a command to the wireless module W1. This command may include, for example, a facility designation, an area designation, a group designation, a value indicating light intensity, a value indicating light brightness, etc. The remote controller 23 stores, for example, network information, unique identification information of the wireless module W1, facility information, area information, and group information. The network information, unique identification information of the wireless module W1, facility information, area information, and group information stored in the remote controller 23 are set, for example, by the first controller 2 and transmitted from the first controller 2 to the remote controller 23.

[0286] The lighting system 1 implements distributed processing to distribute the risk of system destruction or failure and ensure wireless communication bandwidth. For this purpose, the remote controller 23 mainly transmits commands to the wireless modules W1 to Wr. Most of the various calculations and processes are executed by each of the wireless modules W1 to Wr. Examples of commands include a command to brighten the lights, a command to dim the lights, a command to change the color temperature, an on / off command, a scene exit command, and a scene return command.

[0287] Even if the worker or user changes the scene using the remote controller 23, the standard scene information is stored in the wireless modules W1 to Wr. Therefore, the worker or user can freely change the scene and then easily restore the scene. Furthermore, the remote controller 23 may have fewer functions than the first controller 2, and the worker or user can use the intuitive interface of the remote controller 23.

[0288] The temporary change information stored in the memory unit 41 of the wireless module W1 is set by the first controller 2 or the second controller C1 (e.g., a wall scene switch), transmitted from the first controller 2 or the second controller C1 to the wireless module W1, and stored in the memory unit 41 of the wireless module W1. The temporary change information includes, for example, a temporarily changed scene level.

[0289] The transition to a mode in which a scene is played back based on temporary change information is performed by the operator or user operating the first controller 2 or the second controller C1.

[0290] The second controller C1 is connected to, for example, a gateway GW1 that relays communication between the first controller 2 and the wireless modules W1 to Wr. The gateway GW1 has a timer function, and an operator or user may use the second controller C1 to turn the timer function of the gateway GW1 on and off. By using the second controller C1, the operator or user can call up a scene, switch scenes, temporarily change the brightness, temporarily change the color temperature, start a schedule, and cancel a schedule without using the first controller 2.

[0291] When the first controller 2 or the second controller C1 calls up the temporary change information stored in the storage unit 41 of the wireless module W1, all wireless modules W1 to Wk belonging to the specific area E1 temporarily change the scene, for example, based on the scene information currently being played back and the temporary change information. This temporary scene change may have a lower priority than a scene change based on the change information described above. Because the temporary scene change based on the temporary change information has a lower priority, when different scene information is called up by an operator or user operation or a timer, the wireless modules W1 to Wk may discard the temporary change information and start playing back a scene corresponding to the different scene information.

[0292] During scene playback, the worker or user operates the up or down button on the second controller C1 to change the brightness, color temperature, etc. of the scene. The second controller C1 then transmits a temporary change command, for example, via the gateway GW1, to the wireless modules W1 to Wk of all groups G1 to Gm that belong to a specific area E1 of a specific facility F1. Because this temporary change has low priority, if the wireless modules W1 to Wk receive another command from the first controller 2 or the second controller C1 via the gateway GW1 after executing the temporary scene change, they discard the temporary change and transition to a scene according to the received command.

[0293] In the seventh embodiment, the gateway GW1 has a timer function and may disable the temporary change of the wireless modules W1 to Wr at a predetermined time.

[0294] The second controller C1 transmits a command to the wireless modules W1 to Wr via the gateway GW1. This command may include, for example, a designation of a facility F1, a designation of all groups G1 to Gm belonging to a specific area E1, a value indicating light intensity, a value indicating light brightness, etc. The second controller C1 stores, for example, network information, unique identification information of the wireless modules, facility information, area information, and group information. The network information, unique identification information of the wireless modules, facility information, area information, and group information stored in the second controller C1 are set, for example, by the first controller 2 and transmitted from the first controller 2 to the second controller C1.

[0295] Even if the worker or user changes the scene using the second controller C1, the standard scene information is stored in the wireless modules W1 to Wr. This allows the worker or user to freely change the scene and then easily restore the scene. Furthermore, the second controller C1 may have fewer functions than the first controller 2, allowing the worker or user to use an intuitive interface.

[0296] The final state information represents the latest scene information when the power supply to the lighting system 1 is stopped (for example, in the case of a power outage). When the power supply is resumed, the wireless module W1 reads the final state information from the storage unit 41 and plays back the scene corresponding to the final state information. This allows the wireless module W1 to reproduce the scene immediately before the power supply was stopped.

[0297] In the seventh embodiment described above, various information set by the first controller 2 is stored in the storage unit 41 of the wireless module W1. The wireless module W1 executes processing according to the contents stored in the storage unit 41 in accordance with commands received from the first controller 2, the slave controller, the gateway GW1, etc.

[0298] In the seventh embodiment, commands transmitted by the timer functions of the first controller 2, the slave controller, and the gateway GW1 have a simple data structure. This allows a mesh network to be constructed using multiple wireless modules W1 to Wr, reducing the network load and enabling faster responses. Furthermore, in the seventh embodiment, in order to ensure network bandwidth, transmission and reception of responses to specific commands that do not require a response may be omitted. In the seventh embodiment, responses may be omitted depending on the type of command. However, when the first controller 2 transmits setting information to the wireless modules W1 to Wr, the first controller 2 may receive a response from the wireless modules W1 to Wr indicating that the setting information has been successfully received.

[0299] In the seventh embodiment, in order to ensure stable and reliable communication, the plurality of wireless modules W1 to Wr provided in the lighting system 1 may be capable of communicating with each other and may perform repeat communication of commands.

[0300] The embodiments of the present invention are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. The present embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. The present embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, and are also included in the inventions described in the claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0301] 1, 11, 24...lighting system, 2...first controller, 3...router, GW1 to GWp...gateway, C1 to Cp...second controller, F1 to Fp...facility, E1 to En...area, G1 to Gm...group, D1 to Dr...wireless dimmer, W1 to Wr...wireless module, A1 to Ak...dimmer, I1 to Ik...lighting device, W1 to Wk...wireless module, 4...DMX terminal, 5...external input terminal, 61...first communication unit, 62...second communication unit, 7...storage unit, 8...processing unit, 9...DMX device, 10...external device, 12...facility identification information, 13, 14...mesh network, 15...controller identification information, 16, 36, 45...operation unit, 17, 37, 47, 49...display unit, 18, 38, 43...connection unit, 19...communication unit, 20, 41, 44...storage unit, 21, 46...processing unit, 22...software, 23...remote controller, 25...setting information, 26...change information, 27...identification information, 34...dimming unit, 35...wired transmission path, 39...communication module, 40...communication antenna, 42...calculation unit, 48...dimming unit, 50...abnormality detection unit

Claims

1. A controller; a router capable of communicating with the controller; a gateway that communicates with the router in accordance with a first communication method; a wireless lighting dimmer that communicates with the gateway in accordance with a second communication method; Equipped with The gateway a first communication unit that performs communication in accordance with the first communication method; a second communication unit that performs wireless communication in accordance with the second communication method; an external input connection section to which an external device can be connected; a processing unit that receives first data from the controller via the router and the first communication unit, converts the first data into second data, transmits the second data to the wireless lighting dimmer via the second communication unit, generates a control signal based on an external input signal input from the external device via the external input connection unit, and transmits the control signal to the wireless lighting dimmer via the second communication unit; Equipped with During setup, The controller initiates a configuration process; The router searches for the gateway; The gateway sends a response to the router search; the controller transmits gateway identification information to the gateway found via the router; The router receives the gateway identification information from the controller and sends the gateway identification information to the gateway; The gateway stores the gateway identification information received from the router in a storage unit of the gateway, the controller and the gateway perform pairing regarding the second communication method, and the controller performs a reference to receive the gateway identification information from the gateway via the router using the first communication method; the controller associates the gateway searched for by the pairing with the gateway identification information acquired by referring to the gateway; Lighting system.

2. The gateway further comprises a DMX connection to which a lighting fixture can be connected; the processing unit transmits a DMX signal to the lighting fixture via the DMX connection unit. The lighting system of claim 1 .

3. the storage unit of the gateway stores facility identification information indicating a facility including a plurality of mesh networks configured by a plurality of wireless lighting dimmers; the processing unit communicates with a first mesh network of the plurality of mesh networks via the second communication unit, and cooperates with another gateway that has the same identification information as the facility identification information and wirelessly communicates with a second mesh network of the plurality of mesh networks; the number of the plurality of wireless lighting dimmers installed in the facility identified by the facility identification information exceeds the number of wireless lighting dimmers that can participate in a single network of the second communication method; The lighting system of claim 1 .

4. Further comprising a wall switch capable of communicating with the gateway or the wireless lighting dimmer; Two columns of buttons are arranged vertically on the front of the wall switch, a plurality of first buttons are arranged from top to bottom on the left side of the wall switch, and a plurality of second buttons are arranged from top to bottom on the right side of the wall switch, a plurality of first transparent members are provided at the left ends of the plurality of first buttons arranged on the left side, respectively, and light is transmitted from inside the wall switch to a front side of the wall switch via the plurality of first transparent members according to the selection state of each of the plurality of first buttons; A plurality of second transparent members are provided at the right ends of the plurality of second buttons arranged on the right side, respectively, and light is transmitted from inside the wall switch to the front side of the wall switch via the plurality of second transparent members according to the selection state of each of the plurality of second buttons. The lighting system of claim 1 .

5. the controller performs pairing with the gateway, performs pairing with the wireless lighting dimmer, and becomes capable of communicating with the gateway and the wireless lighting dimmer; The controller transmits scene information to the gateway; The gateway receives the scene information from the controller and transmits the scene information to the wireless lighting dimmer; The wireless lighting dimmer receives the scene information from the gateway and stores the scene information; The controller transmits a lighting instruction to the gateway; The gateway receives the lighting instruction from the controller and transmits the lighting instruction to the wireless lighting dimmer; the wireless lighting dimmer receives the lighting instruction from the gateway, and transmits a signal based on the stored scene information to a dimmer; The controller sends a light-off instruction to the gateway; The gateway receives the light-off instruction from the controller and transmits the light-off instruction to the wireless lighting dimmer; The wireless lighting dimmer receives the light-off instruction from the gateway and transmits a light-off signal to the dimmer. The lighting system of claim 1 .

6. The controller executes pairing with a remote controller to be in a state where communication is possible, and the remote controller executes pairing with the wireless lighting dimmer to be in a state where communication is possible, The controller transmits configuration information to the gateway and the remote controller; The gateway and the remote controller receive the setting information from the controller and store the setting information; the remote controller transmits change information to the wireless lighting dimmer designated by the identification information of the setting information; The wireless lighting dimmer receives the change information from the remote controller and transmits a signal corresponding to the change information to a dimmer; the remote controller transmits a change cancellation instruction to the wireless lighting dimmer specified by the identification information of the setting information; The wireless lighting dimmer receives the change cancellation instruction from the remote controller and transmits a signal corresponding to the original scene information to a dimmer. The lighting system of claim 1 .

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