lighting fixtures

Abstract

To provide a lighting fixture allowing adjustment of the illuminance in front of the eyes without changing the illuminance on a floor surface.SOLUTION: A lighting fixture 1 according to an embodiment includes: a pair of light sources 3 provided on both sides at an interval in a width direction; and a dimming film 33 extending from between the pair of light sources 3 in a direction intersecting a straight line 30 connecting the pair of light sources 3. The dimming film 33 becomes transparent because the liquid crystal molecules align in an electric field direction so as to allow light to pass through, for example, in a state where a voltage is applied to liquid crystal molecules in the film. In addition, the dimming film 33 becomes milky white because the liquid crystal molecules are arranged irregularly so as to scatter light, for example, in a state where no voltage is applied.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a lighting fixture. [Background technology]

[0002] Among lighting fixtures, there is known one in which a reflector is attached to the underside of a light source attached to the ceiling, and the light emitted from the light source to the reflector is reflected by the reflector. By reflecting light with the reflector, it is possible to improve the sense of spaciousness and brightness of an indoor space and create a calm atmosphere (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] Also, some lighting fixtures are known that have a vertical reflector attached to the underside of the light source, and transmit light irradiated from the light source onto the vertical reflector directly below the vertical reflector, while also reflecting it in the direction of a person's line of sight. By transmitting light directly below the vertical reflector and reflecting it in the direction of the person's line of sight, it is possible to improve the sense of brightness indoors (see, for example, Patent Document 2). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Utility Model Application Publication No. 5-6525 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2001-291404 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Here, with conventional lighting fixtures, when adjusting the amount of light (brightness) entering the human eye to suit the indoor environment, for example, it is necessary to adjust the intensity of the light emitted from the light source. For this reason, with conventional lighting fixtures, when adjusting the amount of light entering the human eye, the illuminance on the floor surface changes. Hereinafter, the amount of light entering the human eye may be referred to as "preocular illuminance." Meanwhile, there is a demand for practical application of lighting fixtures that can adjust the preocular illuminance to suit the indoor environment without changing the floor illuminance.

[0006] The present invention provides a lighting fixture capable of adjusting the illuminance in front of the eye without changing the illuminance on the floor surface. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] As a means for solving the above problems, the present invention has the following configuration. A lighting fixture according to one aspect of the present invention comprises a pair of light sources spaced apart on both sides, and a dimming film extending from between the pair of light sources in a direction intersecting the line connecting the pair of light sources.

[0008] When a voltage is applied to the liquid crystal molecules in the film, the liquid crystal molecules align in the direction of the electric field, allowing light to pass through, making the light control film transparent. When no voltage is applied, the liquid crystal molecules align irregularly, scattering light, making the light control film milky white. In other words, the light control film can instantly switch between a transparent state and a milky white state by switching between energizing and deenergizing.

[0009] This light-control film is projected between the pair of light sources. Therefore, light emitted from the pair of light sources can be irradiated onto both surfaces of the light-control film (hereinafter referred to as both surfaces). In this state, by passing electricity through the light-control film and making it transparent, the light irradiated onto both surfaces of the light-control film can be transmitted through the light-control film.

[0010] On the other hand, by turning off the current and turning the light control film into a milky white state, the light irradiated onto both sides of the light control film can be reflected from both sides. This makes it possible to increase the perceived brightness on both sides of the light control film without changing the intensity (e.g., color temperature) of the light emitted from the pair of light sources. This increases the amount of light that enters the human eye (i.e., the illuminance in front of the eye). Here, by not changing the intensity of the light emitted from the pair of light sources, the illuminance on the floor surface can be kept unchanged, and therefore the illuminance in front of the eyes can be adjusted without changing the illuminance on the floor surface.

[0011] In the above configuration, a casing body is provided that houses the pair of light sources, and the light-control film may be fixed to the casing body at a position opposite to the direction in which the light-control film extends, based on the pair of light sources.

[0012] With this configuration, the light control film is fixed to the casing body at a position opposite the direction in which the light control film projects, based on the pair of light sources. This prevents the fixing member that fixes the light control film from affecting the light 40 emitted from the pair of light sources, and allows for good adjustment of the illuminance in front of the eyes.

[0013] The above configuration includes a casing main body that houses the pair of light sources and a pair of translucent panels that can transmit light emitted from the pair of light sources, and the pair of translucent panels may be located inside the casing main body and further back than the decorative part facing the interior.

[0014] With this configuration, the pair of transmissive panels are located further back than the decorative portion of the casing body facing the interior. Therefore, for example, the transmissive panels can be located further back than the ceiling. This allows the casing body to conceal the light emitted from the transmissive panels themselves. Therefore, it is possible to prevent light other than that reflected by the light control film from reaching the human eye, allowing for better adjustment of the illuminance in front of the eyes.

[0015] In the above configuration, a casing body is provided that houses the pair of light sources, and the light control film has a first portion that is arranged within the casing body and a second portion that protrudes from the casing body, and the distance from one end to the other end in the longitudinal direction of the second portion may be longer than the distance from one end to the other end in the longitudinal direction of the first portion.

[0016] With this configuration, the first portion of the light control film 33 is disposed inside the casing body 14, and the second portion protrudes from the casing body 14. Furthermore, the distance (length) from one end to the other end of the second portion is longer than the distance (length) from one end to the other end of the first portion. This allows the second portion to be wider in a stepped manner than the first portion. This allows the range in which the illuminance in front of the eye can be increased to be wider.

[0017] When installing lighting fixtures on a ceiling, multiple lighting fixtures are arranged in a row in the longitudinal direction. Therefore, if the second section is the same length as the first section, gaps will form in the light control film between adjacent lighting fixtures. This makes it impossible to increase the illuminance in front of the eyes where the gaps exist.

[0018] In contrast, the second section of the light control film 33 is wider in a stepped manner than the first section. Therefore, for example, the second section can be made the same length as the casing body 14. As a result, when multiple lighting fixtures are arranged side by side in the longitudinal direction, the light control film can be arranged continuously with no gaps between the lighting fixtures, thereby increasing the illuminance in front of the eyes.

[0019] The above configuration may include a casing, a light source housed in the casing, and a dimming film fixed to the casing while spaced apart from the light source and extending from the casing in a direction intersecting the spacing direction of the light source.

[0020] By configuring the light control film in this way, it is possible to project light from the light source onto one surface (hereinafter referred to as one side) of the light control film. In this state, by passing electricity through the light control film and making it transparent, the light irradiated onto one side of the light control film can be transmitted through the light control film.

[0021] On the other hand, by turning off the current and turning the light control film into a milky white state, the light irradiated on one side of the light control film can be reflected on the other side. This makes it possible to increase the perceived brightness on one side of the light control film without changing the intensity of the light emitted from the light source (for example, color temperature). This increases the amount of light that enters the human eye (i.e., ocular illuminance). Here, by not changing the intensity of the light emitted from the light source, the illuminance on the floor surface can be kept unchanged, and therefore the illuminance in front of the eyes can be adjusted without changing the illuminance on the floor surface. [Effects of the Invention]

[0022] According to the present invention, the illuminance in front of the eyes can be adjusted without changing the illuminance on the floor surface. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0023] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view showing a lighting fixture according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 2 is a cross-sectional view of the lighting fixture of FIG. 1 taken along line II-II. [Figure 3] 3 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of part III in the lighting fixture of FIG. 2. FIG. [Figure 4] 10A and 10B are schematic diagrams illustrating an example in which light irradiated onto both surfaces of a brightness adjusting section is transmitted in an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] 10A and 10B are schematic diagrams illustrating an example in which light irradiated onto both surfaces of a brightness adjustment unit is reflected in an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] 5A and 5B are schematic diagrams illustrating an example in which luminance is changed by a luminance adjustment unit according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a lighting fixture according to a first modified example of an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing a lighting fixture according to a second modified example of the embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0024] Next, a lighting fixture according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the direction of arrow A is the longitudinal direction, the direction of arrow B is the width direction, and the direction of arrow C is the up-down direction. <Lighting equipment> Fig. 1 is a perspective view showing a lighting fixture according to an embodiment, Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the lighting fixture of Fig. 1 taken along line II-II, and Fig. 3 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of part III in the lighting fixture of Fig. 2. 1 to 3, lighting fixture 1 is a light that is attached to, for example, a ceiling 100 and illuminates a room 102. Lighting fixture 1 includes, for example, a lighting fixture body 2, a pair of light sources 3, and a brightness adjustment unit 4. <Device body> The fixture main body 2 is attached to, for example, a ceiling 100. The fixture main body 2 includes, for example, a casing 11 and a power supply unit 12. The casing 11 has a casing main body 14, a casing decorative part 15, and a pair of translucent panels 16. The casing main body 14 is disposed above the ceiling 100 through an opening 103 in the ceiling 100. The casing main body 14 has a cross section in the width direction formed into a substantially rectangular frame and extends in the longitudinal direction. The casing main body 14 has a pair of support parts 18, 19 that sandwich the brightness adjustment part 4 (described later).

[0025] The decorative casing part 15 is provided at the bottom of the casing main body 14 and is arranged indoors 102 along the surface 100a of the ceiling 100. The decorative casing part 15 is arranged with its surface facing the indoors 102. The decorative casing part 15 has a pair of openings 21. The pair of openings 21 are formed on both sides of the brightness adjustment part 4 (described later) in the width direction and extend in the longitudinal direction.

[0026] The pair of light-transmitting panels 16 are provided so as to cover the pair of openings 21. Therefore, the pair of light-transmitting panels 16 are arranged along the casing decorative portion 15. The light-transmitting panels 16 are capable of transmitting light emitted from a light source 3, which will be described later. In the embodiment, an example in which the pair of light-transmitting panels 16 are arranged along the casing decorative part 15 will be described, but the pair of light-transmitting panels 16 may also be arranged on the rear side of the casing main body 14. Specifically, the pair of light-transmitting panels 16 may be provided inside the casing main body 14 and on the rear side above the casing decorative part (decorative part) 15 that faces the indoors 102. The power supply unit 12 is provided on the top 14a of the casing body 14. The power supply unit 12 adjusts the color temperature (intensity of light) when a pair of light sources 3 (described later) are turned on and light is emitted. The power supply unit 12 also controls the brightness adjustment unit 4 to switch between energized and de-energized states.

[0027] <Light source> The pair of light sources 3 are attached to the casing main body 14 via a substrate 24. That is, the pair of light sources 3 are housed in the casing main body 14 (casing 11). The pair of light sources 3 are located above the pair of light-transmitting panels 16 and are arranged facing the pair of light-transmitting panels 16. The pair of light sources 3 are provided on both sides of a brightness adjustment unit 4 (described later) in the width direction with a gap therebetween. The pair of light sources 3 are arranged in the longitudinal direction along the pair of light-transmitting panels 16. For example, white light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are used as the light sources 3. In the embodiment, a white light source will be described as an example of the light source 3, but the light source 3 is not limited to white. As another example, a light source containing a large amount of melatonin-suppressing light (480 nm) components may be used.

[0028] The color temperature (light intensity) of the light source 3 is adjusted by the control of the power supply unit 12. For example, the color temperature of the light source 3 is adjusted within a range of 2700 to 5000 K by the control of the power supply unit 12. In the embodiment, an example in which the color temperature of the light source 3 is adjusted within a range of 2700 to 5000 K will be described, but the range of the color temperature of the light source 3 can be selected arbitrarily.

[0029] <Brightness adjustment section> The brightness adjustment unit 4 is disposed between the pair of light sources 3 in the width direction and is provided in the casing main body 14. The brightness adjustment unit 4 is formed into a substantially rectangular shape in a side view. In the embodiment, an example in which the brightness adjustment unit 4 is formed into a substantially rectangular shape will be described, but the shape of the brightness adjustment unit 4 can be selected arbitrarily. The brightness adjustment unit 4 is supported (fixed) in a state in which its upper end portion 4a is sandwiched between a pair of support portions 18, 19 by fixing members such as a plurality of bolts 26 and a plurality of nuts 27. The upper end portion 4a is located above the pair of light sources 3. Therefore, the fixing members such as the plurality of bolts 26 and the plurality of nuts 27 are located above the pair of light sources 3. In other words, the brightness adjustment unit 4 is fixed to the casing main body 14 at an upper position in the opposite direction to the direction in which the brightness adjustment unit 4 protrudes downward relative to the pair of light sources 3. In this state, the brightness adjustment unit 4 is disposed in a direction perpendicular to the straight line 30 connecting the pair of light sources 3. The brightness adjustment unit 4 protrudes downward from between the pair of light sources 3, and hangs down from the casing main body 14 into the indoors 102.

[0030] The brightness adjustment unit 4 has a first section 5 disposed within the casing main body 14 (casing 11) and a second section 6 extending from the casing main body 14 (casing 11). The distance (length) from one end 6a to the other end 6b in the longitudinal direction (direction A) of the second section 6 is longer than the distance (length) from one end 5a to the other end 5b in the longitudinal direction of the first section 5.

[0031] The brightness adjustment unit 4 includes a decorative panel 32 and a light control film 33. The decorative panel 32 is formed, for example, in a substantially rectangular shape from a light-transmitting acrylic plate with a thickness of 5 mm. The thickness of the acrylic plate is not limited to 5 mm and can be selected as desired. The acrylic plate has high transparency, and transparency can be increased when the light control film 33 is energized. Therefore, light irradiated onto both sides 33a of the light control film 33 can be transmitted well from the light control film 33. This allows the illuminance in front of the eyes to be well adjusted without changing the illuminance on the floor surface. In the embodiment, an example in which the decorative panel 32 is formed from an acrylic plate will be described, but the decorative panel 32 may be formed from a transparent plate material other than an acrylic plate.

[0032] The light control film 33 is formed on one surface 32a of the decorative panel 32. Therefore, the light control film 33 can be stably hung down into the room 102 from between the pair of light sources 3. Furthermore, by forming the light control film 33 on one surface 32a of the decorative panel 32, the light control film 33 can be stably supported by a single decorative panel 32. Therefore, the decorative panel 32 that stabilizes the light control film 33 can be simplified, and the brightness adjustment unit 4 can be made lighter. Here, light emitted from the pair of light sources 3 is irradiated onto both surfaces 33a of the light control film 33.

[0033] In the embodiment, an example in which the light control film 33 is formed on one surface 32a of the decorative panel 32 will be described, but this is not limiting. As another example, for example, the light control film 33 may be formed on both surfaces 32a of the decorative panel 32. Alternatively, the light control film 33 may be formed in a state in which it is sandwiched between a pair of decorative panels 32.

[0034] For example, in the ON state where a voltage is applied to the liquid crystal molecules in the film from the power supply unit 12, the light control film 33 becomes transparent (clear) because the liquid crystal molecules align in the direction of the electric field and transmit light. Also, in the OFF state where no voltage is applied from the power supply unit 12, the light control film 33 becomes milky white (opaque, frosted) because the liquid crystal molecules are irregularly aligned and scatter light. In other words, the light control film 33 can be instantly switched between a transparent state and a milky white state by switching the power supply unit 12 between energized (ON) and de-energized (OFF).

[0035] In the embodiment, the light control film 33 is described as being switched to a transparent state when energized and to a milky white state when de-energized, but is not limited to this. As another example, for example, the light control film 33 may be switched to a milky white state when energized and to a transparent state when de-energized.

[0036] In addition, in the embodiment, the light control film 33 is described as being switched between a transparent state and a milky white state by switching between energized and de-energized, but is not limited to this. As another example, for example, the light control film 33 may be one that is switched between a transparent state and a colored state by switching between energized and de-energized. This light-control film 33 may be one that switches to a transparent state when energized and to a colored state when de-energized, or one that switches to a colored state when energized and to a transparent state when de-energized. That is, the light control film 33 used can be switched between a light transmitting state and a light reflecting state by switching between an energized state and an unenergized state.

[0037] Here, the light control film 33 is formed on one surface 32a of the decorative panel 32. Therefore, compared to when the light control film 33 is formed on both surfaces of the decorative panel 32, more light irradiated from the pair of light sources 3 can be transmitted. As a result, by de-energizing the light control film 33 and turning it into a milky white state, light irradiated onto both surfaces 33a of the light control film 33 can be stably reflected by both surfaces 33a, and light transmission by the decorative panel 32 can be maintained in the light-transmitting state. Therefore, the illuminance in front of the eyes can be well adjusted without changing the illuminance on the floor surface.

[0038] Next, an example of operation of lighting fixture 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. First, an example in which light irradiated onto both surfaces 4b of the brightness adjusting section 4 (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as both surfaces 4b) is transmitted will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example in which light irradiated onto both surfaces of the brightness adjusting section in the embodiment is transmitted. As shown in Figure 4, light 40 is emitted from the pair of light sources 3 and irradiated onto both surfaces 4b of the brightness adjustment unit 4. In this state, the power supply unit 12 energizes the light control film 33, turning the light control film 33 into a transparent state. As a result, the light 40 irradiated onto both surfaces 4b of the brightness adjustment unit 4 passes through the light control film 33.

[0039] Next, an example in which the brightness adjusting section 4 reflects light irradiated onto both surfaces 4b will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example in which light irradiated onto both surfaces of a brightness adjusting section in an embodiment is reflected. 5, light 40 is emitted from a pair of light sources 3 and irradiated onto both surfaces 4b of the brightness adjustment unit 4. Here, in the pair of light sources 3, the light 40 emitted from one light source 3 will be referred to as "40A" and the light 40 emitted from the other light source 3 will be referred to as "40B".

[0040] When light 40A, 40B emitted from the pair of light sources 3 is irradiated onto both surfaces 33a of the light control film 33, the power supply unit 12 de-energizes the light control film 33, causing the light control film 33 to turn milky white. As a result, the light 40A irradiated onto one surface 4b of the brightness adjustment unit 4 is reflected by one surface 33a of the light control film 33. Also, the light 40B irradiated onto the other surface 4b of the brightness adjustment unit 4 is reflected by the other surface 33a of the light control film 33. That is, the light 40 irradiated onto both surfaces 4b of the brightness adjustment unit 4 is reflected by both surfaces 33a of the light control film 33.

[0041] Next, a change in luminance in the luminance adjustment section 4 when the light irradiated to both surfaces 4b of the luminance adjustment section 4 is transmitted and reflected will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example in which the brightness is changed by the brightness adjustment unit in the embodiment. As shown in Figures 2 and 6, the brightness adjustment unit 4 (i.e., the light control film 33) is formed with a total length L of 1206 mm from one end 4c to the other end 4d in the longitudinal direction. The light control film 33 hangs down so as to protrude into the indoor space 102 in the vertical direction from the casing decorative part 15 to the bottom edge 4e by a first height H1 of 185 mm. The light control film 33 is attached to the ceiling 100 so as to have a second height H2 of 186 mm from the ceiling 100 to the bottom edge 4e in the vertical direction. The pair of light sources 3 are disposed at a third height H3 of 24 mm away from the casing decorative part 15 on the opposite side of the indoor space 102.

[0042] In this state, the pair of light sources 3 was turned on at 5000K and 2700K to measure the luminance of the luminance adjustment unit 4. Specifically, the luminance of the luminance adjustment unit 4 was measured at nine measurement positions P1 to P9, and the average luminance of the nine positions was calculated. Measurement position P1 is located 31 mm below the ceiling 100 at the longitudinal center of the brightness adjustment unit 4. Measurement position P2 is located 93 mm below the ceiling 100 at the longitudinal center of the brightness adjustment unit 4. Measurement position P3 is located 155 mm below the ceiling 100 at the longitudinal center of the brightness adjustment unit 4.

[0043] Measurement position P4 is located 163 mm from one end 4c of the brightness adjustment unit 4 and 31 mm below the ceiling 100. Measurement position P5 is located 163 mm from one end 4c of the brightness adjustment unit 4 and 93 mm below the ceiling 100. Measurement position P6 is located 163 mm from one end 4c of the brightness adjustment unit 4 and 155 mm below the ceiling 100. Measurement position P7 is located 31 mm below the ceiling 100 and 163 mm from the other end 4d of the brightness adjustment unit 4. Measurement position P8 is located 93 mm below the ceiling 100 and 163 mm from the other end 4d of the brightness adjustment unit 4. Measurement position P9 is located 155 mm below the ceiling 100 and 163 mm from the other end 4d of the brightness adjustment unit 4.

[0044] The average luminance of the luminance adjusting unit 4 measured at the measurement positions P1 to P9 is as follows. When the pair of light sources 3 is turned on at 5000K and the light control film 33 is energized to transmit light, the average luminance of the luminance adjustment unit 4 is 25.166 cd / m 2 is. When the pair of light sources 3 is turned on at 5000 K and the light control film 33 is de-energized to reflect light, the average luminance of the luminance adjustment unit 4 is 32.447 cd / m 2 is. When the pair of light sources 3 is turned on at 2700K and the light control film 33 is energized to transmit light, the average luminance of the luminance adjustment unit 4 is 15.863 cd / m 2 is.

[0045] In other words, when the pair of light sources 3 is turned on at 5000 K and light is reflected by the light control film 33, the average brightness of the brightness adjustment unit 4 can be made 1.3 times higher than when light is transmitted through the light control film 33. Here, when the pair of light sources 3 is turned on at 5000 K, the illuminance of the floor surface can be kept unchanged by switching the light control film 33 on and off. This shows that the average brightness of the brightness adjustment unit 4 can be adjusted by switching the light control film 33 on and off while keeping the illuminance of the floor surface constant. Furthermore, when a pair of light sources 3 is turned on at 5000K and the light is reflected by the dimming film 33, the average brightness of the brightness adjustment unit 4 can be doubled compared to when a pair of light sources 3 is turned on at 2700K and the light is transmitted by the dimming film 33.

[0046] In this embodiment, the first height H1 of the light control film 33 is set to 185 mm, and the third height H3 of the pair of light sources 3 is set to 24 mm. Therefore, the light emitted from the pair of light sources 3 can be irradiated at an appropriate irradiation angle over the entire area of ​​the brightness adjustment unit 4 (i.e., the light control film 33). This makes it possible to appropriately adjust the average brightness of the brightness adjustment unit 4 while keeping the illuminance of the floor surface consistent. Therefore, the illuminance in front of the eye can be well adjusted without changing the illuminance of the floor surface.

[0047] The first height H1 can be selected within a range of ±α, for example, with 185 mm as the base. The third height H3 can be selected within a range of ±β, for example, with 24 mm as the base. α and β are within a range that allows light emitted from the pair of light sources 3 to be irradiated over the entire area of ​​the light control film 33 at an appropriate irradiation angle. With the third height H3 set to 24 mm, the pair of transmissive panels 16 are installed at the back, above the decorative casing portion (decorative portion) 15 facing the indoors 102. By setting the height (distance) between the pair of light sources 3 and the pair of translucent panels to 12 mm, it is possible to prevent emitted light other than light reflected by the brightness adjustment unit 4 (light control film 33) from reaching the human eye. Furthermore, the illuminance in front of the eyes can be adjusted more effectively. In this case, the height (distance) between the pair of light sources 3 and the pair of translucent panels 16 is preferably 25 to 75% of the third height H3.

[0048] As described above, according to the lighting fixture 1 of the embodiment, the light control film 33 is suspended indoors 102 from between the pair of light sources 3, as shown in Figures 2, 4, and 5. Therefore, light 40 emitted from the pair of light sources 3 can be irradiated onto both surfaces 33a of the light control film 33. In this state, by energizing the light control film 33 to make it transparent, the light 40 irradiated onto both surfaces 33a of the light control film 33 can be transmitted through the light control film 33.

[0049] On the other hand, by turning off the current to the light control film 33 and turning it into a milky white state, the light 40 irradiated onto both surfaces 33a of the light control film 33 can be reflected by both surfaces 33a. Therefore, the perceived brightness on both surfaces 33a of the light control film 33 can be increased without changing the intensity (for example, color temperature) of the light 40 emitted from the pair of light sources 3. This makes it possible to increase the amount of light that enters the human eye (i.e., the illuminance in front of the eye). Here, the illuminance on the floor surface can be kept unchanged by not changing the intensity of the light 40 emitted from the pair of light sources 3. Therefore, by switching the light control film 33 between energized and de-energized, the illuminance in front of the eyes can be adjusted without changing the illuminance on the floor surface.

[0050] Here, it is known that the secretions whose secretion is controlled by controlling lighting are secretions that affect a person's circadian rhythm. Melatonin is known as one specific example of such a secretion. Melatonin secretion is affected by the light in a person's environment. For example, melatonin secretion is suppressed in an environment exposed to bright light. On the other hand, in a dark environment, melatonin secretion is less suppressed, and more melatonin is secreted than in an environment exposed to bright light.

[0051] It is known that melatonin suppression by light depends not only on the brightness of the light but also on the light spectrum. For example, the more the light overlaps with the melatonin-suppressing spectrum, the stronger its melatonin-suppressing effect. Conversely, the less the light overlaps with the melatonin-suppressing spectrum, the weaker its melatonin-suppressing effect.

[0052] Based on the characteristics of such melatonin-suppressing spectra, by controlling the emission of light of the first spectrum, which has a high melatonin-suppressing effect, and light of the second spectrum, which has a low melatonin-suppressing effect, it is possible to contribute to the promotion of human health by interacting with a person's daily rhythm. For example, during times when a person is most active in their daily rhythm, the light is controlled to be mainly illuminated in the user's environment with light of the first spectrum. Furthermore, during times when the user is most likely to sleep, the light is controlled to be mainly illuminated in the user's environment with light of the second spectrum.

[0053] The lighting device 1 can control the emission of light of the first spectrum and light of the second spectrum by switching the current-carrying and non-conducting states of the light control film 33 of the brightness adjustment unit 4. In other words, the lighting device 1 can control the emission of light between a state in which the melatonin suppression effect is high and a state in which the melatonin suppression effect is low.

[0054] Furthermore, the brightness adjustment unit 4 is fixed to the casing body 14 at a position opposite to the direction in which the brightness adjustment unit 4 protrudes (i.e., at an upper position) with respect to the pair of light sources 3. This prevents fixing members such as the plurality of bolts 26 and the plurality of nuts 27 that fix the brightness adjustment unit 4 from affecting the light 40 emitted from the pair of light sources 3, and allows for good adjustment of the illuminance in front of the eyes.

[0055] Furthermore, the pair of transmissive panels 16 are provided on the back side of the surface of the casing main body 14 facing the indoors. Therefore, for example, the transmissive panels 16 can be provided at a position recessed from the ceiling 100. This allows the light emitted from the transmissive panels 16 themselves to be hidden by the casing main body 14. Therefore, it is possible to prevent light emitted other than that reflected by the brightness adjustment unit 4 (light control film 33) from reaching the human eye, and the illuminance in front of the eyes can be adjusted more effectively.

[0056] 1 and 2, the first portion 5 of the brightness adjustment unit 4 is disposed inside the casing main body 14, and the second portion 6 protrudes from the casing main body 14. Furthermore, in the longitudinal direction (direction of arrow A), the distance (length) from one end 6a to the other end of the second portion 6 is longer than the distance (length) from one end 5a to the other end 5b of the first portion 5. Therefore, the second portion 6 can be expanded in a stepped manner in the longitudinal direction compared to the first portion 5. This allows, for example, the longitudinal length of the second portion 6 to match the longitudinal length of the casing main body 14. Therefore, the range over which the illuminance in front of the eye can be increased can be expanded.

[0057] Here, when lighting fixtures 1 are attached to ceiling 100, for example, multiple lighting fixtures 1 are arranged side by side in the longitudinal direction (direction of arrow A). Therefore, if second portion 6 has the same length as first portion 5, a gap will be created in brightness adjustment unit 4 between adjacent lighting fixtures 1. For this reason, it is not possible to increase the illuminance in front of the eyes at the location where the gap is created. In contrast, the second section 6 of the brightness adjustment unit 4 is wider in a stepped manner than the first section 5. Therefore, for example, the second section 6 can be made the same length as the casing main body 14. As a result, when multiple lighting fixtures 1 are arranged side by side in the longitudinal direction, the brightness adjustment units 4 can be arranged continuously with no gaps between the lighting fixtures 1, thereby increasing the illuminance in front of the eyes.

[0058] Next, modified examples of the lighting fixture 1 in the embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 7 and 8. In the modified examples, the same or similar components as those in the lighting fixture 1 in the embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0059] <Variation 1> FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing a lighting fixture according to the first modification. 7, the lighting device 50 of the first modification is provided with a brightness adjusting section 4 (i.e., a light control film 33) that is disposed so as to intersect obliquely with the straight line 30 that connects the pair of light sources 3. The lighting device 50 can also achieve the same functions and effects as the lighting device 1 of the embodiment. Furthermore, lighting device 50 may be provided with an angle variable mechanism (not shown) at upper end 4a of brightness adjustment unit 4. By providing lighting device 50 with an angle variable mechanism, it is possible to change crossing angle θ of brightness adjustment unit 4 in the width direction (direction B) with the indoor environment or time, particularly when it is desired to change the illuminance in front of the eyes depending on the indoor environment or time.

[0060] Furthermore, for example, when it is desired to increase the illuminance in front of the eyes caused by the lighting device 50 (to increase the perceived brightness), the brightness adjustment unit 4 can be arranged so as to be perpendicular to the line 30 connecting the pair of light sources 3, as shown in Fig. 2. On the other hand, when it is desired to decrease the illuminance in front of the eyes, the brightness adjustment unit 4 can be arranged so as to intersect obliquely with the line 30 connecting the pair of light sources 3. Alternatively, the brightness adjustment unit 4 can be folded parallel to the ceiling 100 (see Fig. 2). Alternatively, the decorative panel 32 of the brightness adjustment unit 4 can be formed from a transparent vinyl chloride sheet, so that it can be stored in the casing 11 except when it is desired to increase the illuminance in front of the eyes (to increase the perceived brightness).

[0061] <Variation 2> FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing a lighting fixture according to the second modification. 8, lighting fixture 60 is suspended from ceiling 100 by a suspension fixture (not shown), and brightness adjustment unit 4 (light control film 33) is provided between light source 3 and ceiling 100. In this state, brightness adjustment unit 4 protrudes upward from between the pair of light sources 3, and is provided between casing body 14 and ceiling 100. In the case of lighting fixture 60, as in variant example 1, brightness adjustment unit 4 may also be provided so as to diagonally intersect with straight line 30 connecting the pair of light sources 3. Also, as in variant example 1, the decorative panel 32 of the brightness adjustment unit 4 may be formed from a transparent vinyl chloride sheet so that it can be stored within the casing 11 except when it is desired to increase the illuminance in front of the eyes (to increase the sense of brightness).

[0062] Furthermore, in another modified example of the lighting fixture, the pair of light sources 3 may be changed to only one of the light sources 3. That is, in the embodiment, an example in which the brightness adjustment unit 4 is disposed between the pair of light sources 3 will be described, but the brightness adjustment unit 4 may also be disposed for one of the light sources 3 selected from the pair of light sources 3. This lighting fixture includes a casing main body 14, the light source 3 housed in the casing main body 14, and the brightness adjustment unit 4 (light control film 33) that is fixed to the casing main body 14 while being spaced apart from the light source 3 and that protrudes from the casing main body 14 in a direction intersecting the spacing direction of the light source 3. The brightness adjustment unit 4 protrudes downward when the lighting fixture is fixed to the ceiling 100 as in the embodiment. Also, the brightness adjustment unit 4 protrudes upward when the lighting fixture is suspended from the ceiling 100 as in the second modification.

[0063] According to this lighting device, light emitted from one light source 3 can be irradiated onto one surface (hereinafter sometimes referred to as one side) of the light control film 33. In this state, by energizing the light control film 33 to make it transparent, the light irradiated onto one side of the light control film 33 can be transmitted through the light control film 33.

[0064] On the other hand, by turning off the current to the light control film 33 and turning it into a milky white state, the light irradiated onto one side of the light control film 33 can be reflected on one side. Therefore, the perceived brightness on one side of the light control film 33 can be increased without changing the intensity (for example, color temperature) of the light emitted from one light source 3. This makes it possible to increase the amount of light that enters the human eye (i.e., the illuminance in front of the eye). Here, the illuminance on the floor surface can be kept unchanged by not changing the intensity of the light emitted from one of the light sources 3. Therefore, the illuminance in front of the eyes can be adjusted without changing the illuminance on the floor surface.

[0065] Furthermore, in another modified example of the lighting fixture, the brightness adjustment unit 4 (light control film 33) may be arranged in a cross or T shape in a plan view. This can further increase the brightness of the brightness adjustment unit 4. This allows for better adjustment of the illuminance in front of the eyes without changing the illuminance on the floor. The pair of light sources 3 do not need to be fixed, and the angle of the pair of light sources 3 can be changed using a variable function so that they are arranged in a direction that intersects with the light control film. In addition, the degree of transmission and reflection of the light control film can be changed by adjusting the voltage applied to the light control film.

[0066] The technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For example, in the above embodiment, an example has been described in which lighting fixture 1 is attached to ceiling 100, but the location where lighting fixture 1 is attached is not limited to ceiling 100. For example, lighting fixture 1 may be attached to another location, such as a side wall.

[0067] In addition, the components of the above-described embodiment may be replaced with well-known components without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Also, the above-described modifications may be combined. [Explanation of symbols]

[0068] 1...lighting fixture, 3...light source, 4...brightness adjustment section, 5...first section, 5a...one end of the first section, 5b...other end of the first section, 6...second section, 6a...one end of the second section, 6b...other end of the second section, 11...casing, 14...casing body, 15...casing decorative section (decorative section), 16...translucent panel, 30...straight line, 32...decorative panel, 32a...one surface of the decorative panel, 33...light-controlling film, 40, 40A, 40B...light, 102...indoor

Claims

1. a light-control film that can be switched between a light-transmitting state and a light-reflecting state; a light source that irradiates light onto the surface of the light management film; The light source is provided on both sides or one side of the light control film in a state spaced apart from the light control film, The light emitted from the light source is obliquely irradiated onto the surface of the light control film, the light has a first spectrum of light having a high melatonin suppression effect and a second spectrum of light having a low melatonin suppression effect, By switching the light control film, the emission of the light of the first spectrum and the light of the second spectrum is controlled to switch between a state in which the melatonin suppression effect is high and a state in which the melatonin suppression effect is low. Lighting fixtures.

2. a light-transmitting panel is provided between the light source and the light control film; The light-transmitting panel transmits the light emitted from the light source in a thickness direction of the light-transmitting panel.

2. The lighting fixture of claim 1.

3. The light control film is supported by a decorative panel, The decorative panel transmits the light emitted from the light source in a thickness direction of the decorative panel.

2. The lighting fixture of claim 1.

4. a casing that houses the light source; The light management film has a first portion disposed within the casing and a second portion protruding from the casing, The light source is provided at a position spaced apart in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the light control film. A lighting fixture according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. A casing; a light source housed in the casing; a brightness adjustment unit fixed to the casing in a state spaced apart from the light source in a first direction and arranged in a second direction intersecting the first direction, the brightness adjustment unit has a decorative panel and a light control film formed on a surface of the decorative panel, The light source is arranged so as not to overlap the decorative panel and the light control film in the second direction, The light source emits light of a first spectrum having a high melatonin suppression effect and light of a second spectrum having a low melatonin suppression effect, By switching the light control film, the emission of the light of the first spectrum and the light of the second spectrum is controlled to switch between a state in which the melatonin suppression effect is high and a state in which the melatonin suppression effect is low. Lighting fixtures.

6. a thickness of the decorative panel in the first direction that is smaller than a distance between the light source and the brightness adjustment unit in the first direction; 6. A lighting fixture according to claim 5.

Images