lighting system

Abstract

To provide an illumination system which is capable of appropriately controlling a lighting fixture by considering a change in daylight lighting a detection range of an illuminance sensor.SOLUTION: An illumination system includes an illuminance sensor 3, a lighting fixture 2, a calculation part 121, a memory part 11, a calculation part 122 and a generation part 123. The calculation part 122 calculates an illumination control value on the basis of a present illuminance value detected by the illuminance sensor 3, an external illuminance value calculated by the calculation part 121, and a daylight correction rate stored in the memory part 11. The memory part 11 stores a daylight correction rate for each of a plurality of time zones within a day. The calculation part 122 calculates the control illumination value by using the daylight correction rate set for a time zone that includes the current time of the plurality of time zones.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to lighting systems. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a system for controlling lighting fixtures. The system described in Patent Document 1 includes an illuminance sensor and a controller. The illuminance sensor detects an illuminance value within a detection range. The controller controls the lighting fixture so as to obtain a value obtained by subtracting a correction illuminance value from the illuminance value detected by the illuminance sensor. The correction illuminance value is calculated using a daylight correction value. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-200938 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the system described in Patent Document 1, the daylight correction value is a constant value. However, daylight does not always fall on the detection range of the illuminance sensor at a constant level. The system described in Patent Document 1 was unable to appropriately control lighting fixtures in response to changes in the daylight falling on the detection range of the illuminance sensor.

[0005] The present disclosure has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems. An object of the present disclosure is to provide a lighting system that can appropriately control lighting fixtures by taking into account changes in daylight that falls within the detection range of an illuminance sensor. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The lighting system according to the present disclosure includes an illuminance sensor that detects a current illuminance value in a detection range, a lighting fixture that emits light in the detection range, a first calculation unit that calculates an external illuminance value that is a contribution of daylight to the current illuminance value detected by the illuminance sensor, a memory unit that stores a daylight correction factor, and a calculation unit that calculates the current illuminance value detected by the illuminance sensor. to the lighting illuminance value, which is the value obtained by subtracting the external illuminance value from The external illuminance value calculated by the first calculation unit to Daylight correction factor stored in the memory Add the detected illuminance value obtained by multiplying The lighting control system includes a second calculation unit that calculates a control illuminance value, and a generation unit that generates a control command for the lighting fixture so that the control illuminance value calculated by the second calculation unit tracks the target illuminance value. The memory unit stores daylight correction factors for each of a plurality of time periods in a day. The second calculation unit calculates the control illuminance value using the daylight correction factor set for a time period that includes the current time among the plurality of time periods. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] With the lighting system according to the present disclosure, lighting fixtures can be appropriately controlled taking into account changes in daylight within the detection range of the illuminance sensor. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a lighting system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining the function of the lighting system. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the dimming rate and the illuminance value of a lighting fixture. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the dimming rate and the illuminance value of a lighting fixture in daylight. [Figure 5] 10A and 10B are diagrams for explaining a method for calculating a control illuminance value by a calculation unit. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing another example of the lighting system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing another example of the lighting system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8]FIG. 2 illustrates an example of hardware resources of a controller. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 illustrates another example of hardware resources of the controller. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] The following detailed description will be given with reference to the drawings. Duplicate descriptions will be simplified or omitted as appropriate. In each drawing, the same reference numerals indicate the same or corresponding parts.

[0010] Embodiment 1 1 is a diagram showing an example of a lighting system according to Embodiment 1. The lighting system includes a controller 1, a lighting fixture 2, an illuminance sensor 3, and a setting device 4.

[0011] FIG. 1 shows an example in which a lighting system includes three lighting fixtures 2. The number of lighting fixtures 2 included in the lighting system is not limited to three. It is preferable that the lighting system includes multiple lighting fixtures 2, but it may also include only one lighting fixture 2. Similarly, FIG. 1 shows an example in which a lighting system includes three illuminance sensors 3. The number of illuminance sensors 3 included in the lighting system is not limited to three. It is preferable that the lighting system includes multiple illuminance sensors 3, but it may also include only one illuminance sensor 3.

[0012] The lighting fixtures 2 are connected to the controller 1 wirelessly or by wire. The lighting fixtures 2 receive control commands from the controller 1 by wireless or wired signals. The control commands include commands to turn the lighting fixtures on, off, dim the light, and control the color temperature. The illuminance sensors 3 are connected to the controller 1 wirelessly or by wire. The illuminance sensors 3 communicate with the controller 1 by wireless or wired signals.

[0013] The setting device 4 is connected to the controller 1 wirelessly or by wire. The setting device 4 may communicate with the lighting device 2 and the illuminance sensor 3 by wireless or wired signals. When the setting device 4 communicates with the lighting device 2, the setting device 4 may communicate directly with the lighting device 2 or may communicate with the lighting device 2 via the controller 1. The setting device 4 may communicate with the lighting device 2 using a line through which the lighting device 2 communicates with the controller 1. Similarly, when the setting device 4 communicates with the illuminance sensor 3, the setting device 4 may communicate directly with the illuminance sensor 3 or may communicate with the illuminance sensor 3 via the controller 1. The setting device 4 may communicate with the illuminance sensor 3 using a line through which the illuminance sensor 3 communicates with the controller 1.

[0014] The setting device 4 is used by the administrator and users of the lighting system. Administrators and others can use the setting device 4 to perform various settings, status monitoring, and change operations. The settings include setting parameters necessary to control the lighting fixtures 2 and setting parameters related to the illuminance sensors 3. Status monitoring includes displaying set values ​​and displaying operating status. Change operations include turning the lighting fixtures 2 on and off, dimming, and changing the color temperature. The setting device 4 can be implemented using an infrared remote control, a personal computer, a mobile device, or the like.

[0015] In the following, an example in which this lighting system is applied to a certain room will be described. In the following, the room to which this lighting system is applied will be referred to as Room A. Room A has a window. Therefore, daylight enters Room A through the window. In addition, the building in which Room A is installed will be referred to as Building B.

[0016] 2 is a diagram illustrating the function of the lighting system. Illuminance sensor 3 detects illuminance values ​​within a specific detection range. As an example, illuminance sensor 3 is installed on the ceiling of room A. In this case, light reflected from the floor, desk top, and other surfaces located below illuminance sensor 3 is input to illuminance sensor 3. The range into which the reflected light is input is the detection range of illuminance sensor 3.

[0017] In the example shown in FIG. 2, the illuminance sensor 3 includes a memory unit 31, a sensor unit 32, a control unit 33, and a communication unit .

[0018] The sensor unit 32 detects the brightness within the detection range. The brightness detected by the sensor unit 32 is output to the control unit 33. As an example, the sensor unit 32 includes an illuminance sensor element. The voltage value output from the illuminance sensor element changes depending on the amount of input light. That is, the illuminance sensor element converts the amount of input light into a voltage signal. The voltage value output from the illuminance sensor element is an analog value.

[0019] The control unit 33 converts the brightness detected by the sensor unit 32, i.e., the voltage value from the sensor unit 32, into an illuminance value. As an example, a reference table for converting voltage values ​​into illuminance values ​​is stored in the memory unit 31. The reference table may be a table created based on actual measured values. The control unit 33 acquires the illuminance value based on this reference table. The memory unit 31 may also store a calculation formula for calculating the illuminance value from the voltage value. The calculation formula may be a formula created based on actual measured values.

[0020] The illuminance sensor 3 may further include an amplifier circuit. The amplifier circuit converts the voltage value from the sensor unit 32 into a value within a range that can be input to a microcomputer that realizes the functions of the control unit 33. When the illuminance sensor 3 is installed on the ceiling, as described above, light reflected from the floor, desk top, etc. is input to the illuminance sensor 3. The reflectance of the floor, wall, ceiling, desk top, etc. varies depending on the material and color of each surface, i.e., the reflective surface. Therefore, even if the same amount of light hits a reflective surface, the amount of light input to the illuminance sensor 3 will vary depending on the material and color of the reflective surface.

[0021] It is preferable that the amplification degree of the amplifier circuit can be selected from among a plurality of amplification degrees so that the voltage value from the sensor unit 32 can be converted into a value within an appropriate range depending on the environment in which the lighting system is used. The amplification degree of the amplifier circuit may be automatically selected in the illuminance sensor 3. For example, when the lighting fixture 2 is controlled at a specific dimming rate, a specific setting operation is performed to set the amplification degree. When this setting operation is performed, the illuminance sensor 3 sequentially reproduces the multiple registered amplification degrees. This identifies the amplification degree that optimizes the voltage value input to the microcomputer. The identified amplification degree is selected as the amplification degree to be used by the amplifier circuit and stored in the memory unit 31.

[0022] The communication unit 34 transmits information on the illuminance value obtained by the control unit 33 to the controller 1.

[0023] Controller 1 controls lighting fixture 2. Control of lighting fixture 2 includes turning it on, off, dimming, and controlling color temperature. Controller 1 controls the dimming rate of lighting fixture 2 based on at least the illuminance value detected by illuminance sensor 3. Specifically, controller 1 calculates an illuminance value for controlling lighting fixture 2, i.e., a control illuminance value, based on the illuminance value received from illuminance sensor 3.

[0024] In the example shown in FIG. 2, the controller 1 includes a memory unit 11, a control unit 12, a date and time information management unit 13, a communication unit 14, a communication unit 15, and an upper communication unit 16.

[0025] The communication unit 14 communicates with the illuminance sensor 3 and the lighting fixture 2. Information on the illuminance value detected by the illuminance sensor 3 is received by the communication unit 14. The communication unit 14 receives the illuminance value information from the communication unit 34 periodically or as needed.

[0026] Controller 12 has the function of automatically controlling lighting device 2. Specifically, controller 12 calculates the control illuminance value described above. Controller 12 compares the calculated control illuminance value with a preset target illuminance value. If there is a difference between the control illuminance value and the target illuminance value, controller 12 generates a control command to reduce the difference. That is, if the control illuminance value is greater than the target illuminance value, controller 12 generates a control command to decrease the dimming rate of lighting device 2. If the control illuminance value is less than the target illuminance value, controller 12 generates a control command to increase the dimming rate of lighting device 2. By repeating this process, automatic control is achieved to match the illuminance value in the detection range with the target illuminance value.

[0027] To achieve these functions, the control unit 12 is provided with a calculation unit 121, a calculation unit 122, a generation unit 123, and an extraction unit 124. The target illuminance value is pre-stored in the memory unit 11. The functions of the control unit 12 will be described in detail below.

[0028] Light is emitted from lighting fixture 2 within the detection range of illuminance sensor 3. As described above, sunlight enters Room A through the window. Therefore, daylight falls on the detection range. The illuminance value detected by illuminance sensor 3 includes a contribution from light from lighting fixture 2 and a contribution from daylight. Hereinafter, the illuminance value detected by illuminance sensor 3 will also be referred to as the current illuminance value. The contribution from daylight of the current illuminance value will also be referred to as the external illuminance value. Calculation unit 121 calculates the external illuminance value.

[0029] FIG. 3 illustrates the relationship between the dimming rate and illuminance value of lighting fixture 2. The relationship illustrated in FIG. 3 represents the relationship between the dimming rate and illuminance value in the absence of daylight, and is stored in memory unit 11. In the example illustrated in FIG. 3, if the dimming rate of lighting fixture 2 is 100%, the illuminance sensor 3 detects an illuminance value of 800 [lx]. If the dimming rate of lighting fixture 2 is 50%, the illuminance sensor 3 detects an illuminance value of 400 [lx]. FIG. 3 illustrates an example in which the illuminance value detected by the illuminance sensor 3 is proportional to the dimming rate of lighting fixture 2. In other words, if the dimming rate of lighting fixture 2 is 0%, the illuminance value detected by the illuminance sensor 3 is 0 [lx]. Note that the relationship illustrated in FIG. 3 is merely an example. The relationship between the dimming rate and illuminance value of lighting fixture 2 may be represented by a curve.

[0030] The relationship shown in FIG. 3 may be obtained based on actual measurements. For example, lighting fixture 2 is adjusted to a specific reference dimming ratio in the absence of daylight. The illuminance value within the detection range of illuminance sensor 3 is measured with an illuminance meter and registered as the reference illuminance value in the absence of daylight at the reference dimming ratio. The voltage value input to the microcomputer in illuminance sensor 3 is then linked to the registered reference illuminance value and stored in memory unit 11. This allows the current illuminance value to be calculated by proportional calculation, as shown in the example shown in FIG. 3, even if the voltage value input to the microcomputer in illuminance sensor 3 changes. The reference dimming ratio may be 100%. In this case, the illuminance value at maximum output of lighting fixture 2 becomes the reference illuminance value.

[0031] Hereinafter, the illuminance value detected by the illuminance sensor 3 in the absence of daylight will also be referred to as the lighting illuminance value. In the example shown in Figure 3, when the dimming rate of lighting fixture 2 is 100%, the lighting illuminance value is 800 [lx]. When the dimming rate of lighting fixture 2 is 50%, the lighting illuminance value is 400 [lx].

[0032] FIG. 4 illustrates the relationship between the dimming rate and illuminance value of lighting fixture 2 when daylight is present. That is, FIG. 4 illustrates the relationship between the dimming rate and illuminance value when a constant amount of daylight is illuminating the detection range. In the example shown in FIG. 4, when lighting fixture 2's dimming rate is 100%, illuminance sensor 3 detects an illuminance value of 1100 [lx]. As shown in FIG. 3, in the absence of daylight, the illuminance value at 100% dimming rate is 800 [lx]. In the example shown in FIG. 4, daylight increases the illuminance value by 300 [lx]. In the example shown in FIG. 4, even when the dimming rate is 0%, the illuminance value detected by illuminance sensor 3 is 300 [lx].

[0033] Calculation unit 121 first calculates the illumination illuminance value from the current dimming rate of lighting device 2 based on the relationship between the reference dimming rate and the reference illuminance value, i.e., the relationship shown in Figure 3. Next, calculation unit 121 calculates the external illuminance value by subtracting the illumination illuminance value from the current illuminance value.

[0034] The calculation unit 122 calculates a control illuminance value to be compared with the target illuminance value. The daylight correction factor is stored in the memory unit 11. The calculation unit 122 calculates the control illuminance value based on the current illuminance value detected by the illuminance sensor 3, the external illuminance value calculated by the calculation unit 121, and the daylight correction factor stored in the memory unit 11. Below, an example will be described in which the calculation unit 122 obtains the control illuminance value by adding a portion of the external illuminance value as a detected illuminance value to the illumination illuminance value. The daylight correction factor is used to calculate the detected illuminance value.

[0035] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating how the calculation unit 122 calculates the control illuminance value. As described above, the current illuminance value includes the contribution of light from the lighting device 2 and the contribution of daylight. The calculation unit 122 adds the detected illuminance value, which is part of the external illuminance value, to the illumination illuminance value. For example, the calculation unit 122 obtains the detected illuminance value by multiplying the external illuminance value calculated by the calculation unit 121 by a daylight correction factor. In other words, the daylight correction factor indicates the proportion of the external illuminance value to be added to the illumination illuminance value. FIG. 5 shows an example in which the daylight correction factor is 50%. In the example shown in FIG. 4, the external illuminance value is 300 [lx]. Therefore, 50% of 300 [lx] becomes the detected illuminance value. The control illuminance value is obtained by adding 150 [lx] to the illumination illuminance value.

[0036] For example, if the dimming level of lighting fixture 2 is 100%, the control illuminance value is calculated as 950 [lx], which is the sum of the illumination illuminance value 800 [lx] and the detected illuminance value 150 [lx].If the dimming level of lighting fixture 2 is 50%, the control illuminance value is calculated as 550 [lx], which is the sum of the illumination illuminance value 400 [lx] and the detected illuminance value 150 [lx].

[0037] Generator 123 generates a control command for lighting device 2 so that the control illuminance value calculated by calculator 122 tracks the target illuminance value. For example, if the control illuminance value calculated by calculator 122 is smaller than the target illuminance value, generator 123 generates a control command to increase the dimming rate of lighting device 2. If the control illuminance value calculated by calculator 122 is larger than the target illuminance value, generator 123 generates a control command to decrease the dimming rate of lighting device 2.

[0038] Communication unit 14 transmits the control command generated by generation unit 123 to lighting fixture 2.

[0039] By repeating the above-described process, the controller 1 performs automatic control to make the calculated control illuminance value follow the target illuminance value.

[0040] Unlike the light from lighting fixture 2, the daylight entering Room A cannot be controlled to a constant level. The daylight entering Room A varies depending on various factors, and the external illuminance value fluctuates accordingly. The daylight correction function implemented by control unit 12 is provided to appropriately adjust the dimming rate of lighting fixture 2 in cases where the rate of increase in the current illuminance value changes significantly due to daylight entering through a window. For example, in the morning and evening, when the sun's altitude is low, sunlight can enter Room A directly depending on the position of the window. Also, the current illuminance value may rise sharply due to extreme brightness near the window. In such cases, the daylight correction function is particularly effective.

[0041] In the example shown in this embodiment, the control unit 12 has a function of selecting a daylight correction factor to be used based on specific conditions. That is, in the example shown in this embodiment, the memory unit 11 does not store a single daylight correction factor. Instead, the memory unit 11 stores multiple daylight correction factors. The extraction unit 124 extracts one daylight correction factor from the multiple daylight correction factors stored in the memory unit 11 based on specific conditions. The calculation unit 122 calculates a detected illuminance value using the daylight correction factor extracted by the extraction unit 124. The function of the extraction unit 124 will be described in detail below.

[0042] Table 1 is a table for explaining the scheduling function of the controller 1. The schedule information shown in Table 1 is stored in the memory unit 11. Table 1 shows an example in which the daylight correction factors are stored in the memory unit 11 for multiple periods in a year and multiple time periods in a day.

[0043] [Table 1]

[0044] Table 1 shows the schedule information for automatically controlling the dimming rate of lighting fixture 2. The schedule information may further include information for automatically controlling the on / off and color temperature of lighting fixture 2. Controller 1 performs automatic control based on the schedule information stored in memory unit 11.

[0045] In the example shown in Table 1, a daylight correction factor is set for each of three time periods in a day. Hereinafter, the time period from 6:00 to 9:00 is also referred to as the first time period. That is, the first time period includes the times between 6:00, 7:00, and 8:00. Similarly, the time period from 9:00 to 15:00 is also referred to as the second time period. The time period from 15:00 to 18:00 is also referred to as the third time period. In addition, in the example shown in Table 1, a year is divided into four periods, and a daylight correction factor is set for each of the four periods. Hereinafter, the period from May to July is also referred to as summer. Similarly, the period from August to October is also referred to as autumn. The period from November to January is also referred to as winter. The period from February to April is also referred to as spring.

[0046] In the example shown in Table 1, the daylight correction factor for the first time slot in summer is set to 40%. The daylight correction factor for the third time slot in summer is set to 30%. In the morning and evening, the sun's altitude is low, making it easy for daylight to enter through windows. Because the brightness of the detection range in the morning and evening is easily affected by the rising sun and setting sun, it is preferable to set the daylight correction factor for the first time slot and the daylight correction factor for the third time slot to a low value.

[0047] On the other hand, during the second time slot during the day, the sun is high in the sky, making it difficult for daylight to enter through the windows. For this reason, it is preferable to set the daylight correction factor for the second time slot to a higher value than the daylight correction factors for the first time slot and the third time slot. In the example shown in Table 1, the daylight correction factor for the second time slot in summer is set to 60%.

[0048] The date and time information management unit 13 has a calendar function. The date and time information management unit 13 outputs current date and time information. The date and time information includes year, month, and day information and time information. The extraction unit 124 acquires date and time information from the date and time information management unit 13. Based on the date and time information acquired from the date and time information management unit 13, the extraction unit 124 extracts a daylight correction factor that the calculation unit 122 uses when calculating a detected illuminance value. In other words, the extraction unit 124 extracts a daylight correction factor set for a time period that includes the current date and time. The calculation unit 122 calculates a control illuminance value using the daylight correction factor extracted by the extraction unit 124.

[0049] For example, if the date and time indicated by the date and time information from the date and time information management unit 13, i.e., the current date and time, is 12:00 on June 1st, the extraction unit 124 acquires the daylight correction factor for the second time slot in summer. In this case, the calculation unit 122 calculates 60% of the external illuminance value as the detected illuminance value. If the current date and time is 17:00 on July 1st, the extraction unit 124 acquires the daylight correction factor for the third time slot in summer. In this case, the calculation unit 122 calculates 30% of the external illuminance value as the detected illuminance value.

[0050] To continue the clock function even when the power supply to the controller 1 is temporarily turned off, the controller 1 may be equipped with a backup secondary battery or capacitor. This allows time measurement to continue for a certain period of time even when the power supply to the controller 1 is turned off. In such a case, it is preferable that time measurement continues and date and time information is not erased when the power supply to the controller 1 is turned on. The clock function may be realized by an RTC function built into a microcomputer. As another example, the clock function may be realized by an electronic component with an RTC function externally attached to the controller 1. To improve the accuracy of time measurement, the controller 1 may be equipped with a component such as a quartz oscillator or ceramic oscillator.

[0051] Table 1 also shows an example where a high-rise building is located to the east of Building B. The Earth's axis of rotation is tilted relative to its orbital axis. As a result, the direction of sunrise and sunset, as well as the altitude of the sun during the day, vary depending on the season. If a high-rise building is located directly east of Building B, sunlight is less likely to enter Room A in the mornings of autumn and spring. On the other hand, in summer and winter, when the direction of sunrise deviates from the direction of sunrise in autumn and spring, sunlight directly enters Room A. For this reason, in the example shown in Table 1, the daylight correction factors for the first time slot in autumn and spring, which are less affected by the morning sun, are set to high values ​​of 80%. On the other hand, the daylight correction factors for the first time slot in summer and winter, which are more affected by the morning sun, are set to 40%, which is lower than 80%. Note that the setting sun shines into Room A regardless of the season. For this reason, the daylight correction rate for the third time period is set to a uniform 30% regardless of the season.

[0052] Furthermore, the sun's altitude during the day is higher in summer and lower in winter. The sun's altitude during the day in autumn and spring is lower than in summer and higher than in winter. In the example shown in Table 1, the daylight correction factor for the second time zone is set according to the sun's altitude. For example, in winter, when the sun's altitude is low and sunlight easily enters through windows, the daylight correction factor for the second time zone is set to a low value of 40%. On the other hand, in autumn and spring, when the sun's altitude is higher than in winter, the daylight correction factor for the second time zone is set to 50%. Furthermore, in summer, when the sun's altitude is higher than in autumn and spring, the daylight correction factor for the second time zone is set to 60%. In other words, the daylight correction factor is set to increase as the sun's altitude increases.

[0053] Table 1 shows an example of schedule information. The administrator can change the schedule information as desired to suit the environment in which this system is applied. For example, if a building is adjacent to Building B to the south, there may be more sunlight coming in through the windows during the second time slot in autumn than during the second time slot in winter. In such a case, the daylight correction factor for the second time slot in winter may be higher than the daylight correction factor for the second time slot in autumn.

[0054] As an example, an administrator changes schedule information using the setting device 4. In the example shown in FIG. 2, the setting device 4 includes an input unit 41 and a communication unit 42. The administrator inputs a change request to change the schedule information from the input unit 41. The change request includes information to change the schedule information and information indicating the change content. The communication unit 42 transmits the change request input from the input unit 41 to the controller 1. In the controller 1, the communication unit 15 receives the change request from the setting device 4. The control unit 12 changes the schedule information stored in the memory unit 11 based on the change request received by the communication unit 15.

[0055] Table 1 shows a preferred example in which a daylight correction factor is set for each combination of multiple periods and multiple time periods. The daylight correction factor may be set for each of multiple time periods within a day, regardless of the period. In such a case, the extraction unit 124 acquires current time information from the date and time information management unit 13. The calculation unit 122 simply calculates the control illuminance value using the daylight correction factor set for the time period that includes the current time among the multiple time periods.

[0056] Table 2 shows another example of schedule information stored in memory unit 11. Table 2 shows an example in which the daylight correction factor is set according to the period and time period as well as the latitude of the building to which the lighting system is applied. Table 2 also shows an example of the daylight correction factor set for the second time period. Memory unit 11 also stores schedule information in which the daylight correction factor set for the first time period and the daylight correction factor set for the third time period are registered.

[0057] [Table 2]

[0058] The Japanese archipelago is elongated, stretching from north to south. Specifically, most of the Japanese archipelago is located between 20° north and 45° north latitude. Because the altitude of the sun during the day varies depending on the latitude, the amount of sunlight entering through windows is also affected by the latitude of the building to which this system is applied. In high-latitude areas, the altitude of the sun during the day is low, making it easier for daylight to enter through windows. For this reason, when this system is applied to a building in a high-latitude area, it is preferable to set the daylight correction factor to a low value. On the other hand, in low-latitude areas, the altitude of the sun during the day is high, making it difficult for daylight to enter through windows. For this reason, when this system is applied to a building in a low-latitude area, it is preferable to set the daylight correction factor to a high value.

[0059] The altitude of the sun varies with the season as well as the latitude. Even in regions at the same latitude, the altitude of the sun is higher in the summer, making it difficult for daylight to enter through windows. For this reason, the daylight correction factor is set to a high value in the summer. On the other hand, the altitude of the sun is lower in the winter, making it easier for daylight to enter through windows. For this reason, the daylight correction factor is set to a low value in the winter. The daylight correction factor in the autumn and spring is set to a value lower than the daylight correction factor in the summer, but higher than the daylight correction factor in the winter.

[0060] Table 2 shows an example in which the range from 20°N to 50°N is divided into 12 latitude ranges, and daylight correction factors are set for each season for each of the divided latitude ranges. When only latitude is taken into consideration, the daylight correction factor set for a range that includes higher latitudes will have a smaller value.

[0061] The latitude in this lighting system is set, for example, when the controller 1 is shipped from the factory. An administrator may use the setting device 4 to set and change the latitude.

[0062] If the memory unit 11 stores daylight correction factors according to latitude, the extraction unit 124 extracts the daylight correction factor based on the set latitude information as well. For example, if information about 36° north latitude, which is the latitude of Tokyo, is set in the controller 1 and the current date and time is 14:00 on July 1st, the extraction unit 124 extracts the daylight correction factor for the second time zone in summer at that latitude. In the example shown in Table 2, the calculation unit 122 calculates 52.5% of the external illuminance value as the detected illuminance value.

[0063] Table 2 is an example of schedule information. In the example shown in Table 2, the range from 20° north latitude to 49.9° north latitude is divided into 12 sections, but the way in which the latitude ranges are divided is not limited to the example shown in Table 2. Furthermore, the way in which the periods and time periods are divided is not limited to the examples shown in Table 1 and Table 2. For example, if this lighting system is applied to a region other than Japan, the daylight correction factor is set for a latitude range that includes the latitude of that region. Furthermore, if this lighting system is applied to the Southern Hemisphere, the daylight correction factor is set for a range of southern latitudes. By using the schedule function, the daylight correction factor may be extracted only for a specific season or a specific time period, taking into account the set latitude information.

[0064] Lighting device 2 is controlled by control commands from controller 1. In the example shown in FIG. 2, lighting device 2 includes lighting unit 21, memory unit 22, control unit 23, and communication unit 24. Control commands from controller 1 are received by communication unit 24. Lighting unit 21 includes a light source such as an LED or a fluorescent lamp. Control unit 23 controls lighting unit 21 based on the control commands received by communication unit 24. This control includes operations for turning on, turning off, dimming, and changing the color temperature.

[0065] In the example shown in this embodiment, a daylight correction factor is set for each of multiple time periods within a day. Calculation unit 122 calculates the control illuminance value using the daylight correction factor set for the time period that includes the current time among the multiple time periods. Therefore, in the example shown in this embodiment, lighting device 2 can be appropriately controlled in response to changes in daylight within the detection range of illuminance sensor 3. Furthermore, lighting device 2 can be appropriately controlled in response to seasonal changes in daylight and differences in daylight due to latitude.

[0066] The schedule function of the controller 1 allows the extraction unit 124 to automatically extract a daylight correction factor that matches the latitude, season, and time of day. The illuminance sensor 3 detects the current illuminance value at regular intervals, enabling feedback control using an appropriate daylight correction factor.

[0067] The daylight correction function by the control unit 12 corrects only the external illuminance value, which is the portion of the current illuminance value that is contributed by daylight. Therefore, in situations where room A is dark because sunlight does not penetrate due to cloudy weather, the impact of setting the daylight correction factor is small. Therefore, even if the daylight correction factor is set to a small value, problems such as insufficient illuminance in the detection range will not occur.

[0068] In this embodiment, an example has been described in which controller 1 performs individual control of lighting fixtures 2 individually. In this case, an individual address is stored in memory unit 22 of lighting fixture 2. An individual address is stored in memory unit 31 of illuminance sensor 3. Memory unit 11 of controller 1 stores terminal management information for managing the individual addresses of lighting fixtures 2 and illuminance sensors 3. Control unit 12 manages the allocation of lighting fixtures 2 and illuminance sensors 3 based on the terminal management information. That is, control unit 12 identifies corresponding lighting fixtures 2 and illuminance sensors 3 based on the terminal management information.

[0069] As another example, controller 1 may perform group control, which controls multiple lighting fixtures 2 collectively. A group subject to group control includes multiple lighting fixtures 2. In such a case, a group number is further stored in memory 22 of lighting fixture 2. A group number is further stored in memory 31 of illuminance sensor 3. The device management information stored in memory 11 includes the group numbers of lighting fixtures 2 and illuminance sensors 3. Control unit 12 manages the assignment of groups of lighting fixtures 2 and groups of illuminance sensors 3 based on the terminal management information. That is, control unit 12 identifies corresponding groups of lighting fixtures 2 and groups of illuminance sensors 3 based on the terminal management information. When controller 1 performs group control, control unit 12 may calculate a control illuminance value for a group based on the average illuminance values ​​detected by the multiple illuminance sensors 3 included in that group.

[0070] As another example, the controller 1 may perform zone control, which controls a plurality of groups collectively. A single zone that is the target of zone control includes a plurality of groups.

[0071] In the present embodiment, an example has been described in which information on the current illuminance value is transmitted from the illuminance sensor 3 to the controller 1. As another example, the illuminance sensor 3 may calculate the external illuminance value, the detected illuminance value, and the control illuminance value. In such a case, the illuminance sensor 3 stores information such as the daylight correction factor required to calculate each of the above values. The illuminance sensor 3 also transmits information on the calculated control illuminance value to the controller 1. The controller 1 generates a control command for the lighting fixture 2 so that the received control illuminance value tracks the target illuminance value.

[0072] In the present embodiment, an example has been described in which the lighting fixture 2 and the illuminance sensor 3 are connected to the controller 1. As another example, terminal devices other than the lighting fixture 2 and the illuminance sensor 3 may be further connected to the controller 1. The terminal devices may be connected to the controller 1 using a communication line to which the lighting fixture 2 and the illuminance sensor 3 are connected, or may be connected to the controller 1 using another communication line. The terminal devices may be a human presence sensor for detecting the presence of a person. The terminal devices may be an image sensor for detecting the presence of a person. The terminal devices may be a wall switch operated by a user. The controller 1 may use signals from these terminal devices to automatically control the lighting fixture 2.

[0073] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing another example of the lighting system according to the first embodiment. The example shown in FIG. 6 differs from the example shown in FIG. 1 in that the controller 1 and the illuminance sensor 3 are integrated. That is, in the example shown in FIG. 1, information on the illuminance value detected by the illuminance sensor 3 is transmitted to the controller 1 by the communication unit 34, but in the example shown in FIG. 6, this transmission function is not necessary. Also, in the example shown in FIG. 6, the illuminance sensor 3 is built into the controller 1, so that the information stored in the memory unit 31 can be centrally managed by the controller 1. In the example shown in FIG. 6, as in the example shown in FIG. 1, it is preferable that each memory unit is configured with a non-volatile memory.

[0074] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing another example of the lighting system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 7 shows an example in which a lighting system is connected to a central management device 6 of a host system via a gateway device 5. In the example shown in FIG. 7, the lighting system includes a plurality of controllers 1. A lighting fixture 2 and an illuminance sensor 3 are connected to each of the controllers 1. The controllers 1 are connected to the gateway device 5 wirelessly or by wire. The controllers 1 communicate with the gateway device 5 via a host communication unit 16. In the example shown in FIG. 7, the setting device 4 may be connected to the controller 1 using a host communication line that connects the controller 1 and the gateway device 5.

[0075] The gateway device 5 has a conversion function for transmitting a signal from the controller 1 to the central management device 6. The gateway device 5 has a conversion function for transmitting a signal from the central management device 6 to the controller 1. The central management device 6 is provided in, for example, another system for managing the facilities of building B. The central management device 6 may be connected to the gateway device 5 using a communication standard different from the communication standard with which the lighting system connects to the gateway device 5.

[0076] The central management device 6 may manage the operating status of the lighting system. As a result, the central management device 6 may link other facility equipment installed in building B, such as air conditioners, with the lighting system. The central management device 6 may collectively manage the lighting system and other facility equipment. In such a case, the central management device 6 may display the operating status of the lighting system and the operating status of the other facility equipment on a monitor. The central management device 6 may send control commands for the lighting fixtures 2 and commands to change various setting values ​​to the controller 1.

[0077] Furthermore, the functions of the gateway device 5 may be provided in the controller 1. In order to link the lighting system with other facility devices, the controller 1 may be connected to other devices or other systems via multiple devices.

[0078] 8 is a diagram showing an example of hardware resources of the controller 1. The controller 1 includes, as hardware resources, a processing circuit 50 including a processor 51 and a memory 52. ​​The processing circuit 50 may include multiple processors 51. The processing circuit 50 may include multiple memories 52.

[0079] In this embodiment, the units denoted by reference numerals 11 to 16 and 121 to 124 represent functions possessed by the controller 1. The function of the memory unit 11 is realized by the memory 52. ​​The functions of the units denoted by reference numerals 12 to 16 and 121 to 124 can be realized by software written as a program, firmware, or a combination of software and firmware. The program is stored in the memory 52. ​​The controller 1 realizes the functions of the units denoted by reference numerals 12 to 16 and 121 to 124 by the processor 51 executing the program stored in the memory 52.

[0080] The processor 51 is also called a CPU (Central Processing Unit), central processing unit, processing unit, arithmetic unit, microprocessor, microcomputer, or DSP. The memory 52 may be a semiconductor memory, a magnetic disk, a flexible disk, an optical disk, a compact disk, a minidisk, or a DVD. Usable semiconductor memories include RAM, ROM, flash memory, EPROM, and EEPROM.

[0081] Fig. 9 is a diagram showing another example of hardware resources of the controller 1. In the example shown in Fig. 9, the controller 1 includes a processing circuit 50 including a processor 51, a memory 52, and dedicated hardware 53. Fig. 9 shows an example in which some of the functions of the controller 1 are realized by the dedicated hardware 53. All of the functions of the controller 1 may also be realized by the dedicated hardware 53. The dedicated hardware 53 may be a single circuit, a composite circuit, a programmed processor, a parallel programmed processor, an ASIC, an FPGA, or a combination thereof.

[0082] The hardware resources of lighting fixture 2 are similar to those shown in FIG. 8 or 9. Lighting fixture 2 includes a processing circuit including a processor and memory as its hardware resources. Lighting fixture 2 realizes the functions of each unit shown in FIG. 2 by executing a program stored in the memory with the processor. Lighting fixture 2 may include a processing circuit including a processor, memory, and dedicated hardware as its hardware resources. Some or all of the functions of lighting fixture 2 may be realized by dedicated hardware.

[0083] The hardware resources of the illuminance sensor 3 are similar to those of the example shown in FIG. 8 or FIG. 9. The illuminance sensor 3 includes a processing circuit including a processor and memory as its hardware resources. The illuminance sensor 3 realizes the functions of the various units shown in FIG. 2 by causing the processor to execute a program stored in the memory. The illuminance sensor 3 may include a processing circuit including a processor, memory, and dedicated hardware as its hardware resources. Some or all of the functions of the illuminance sensor 3 may be realized by dedicated hardware. [Explanation of symbols]

[0084] 1 Controller, 2 Lighting fixture, 3 Illuminance sensor, 4 Setting device, 5 Gateway device, 6 Central management device, 11 Memory unit, 12 Control unit, 121 Calculation unit, 122 Calculation unit, 123 Generation unit, 124 Extraction unit, 13 Date and time information management unit, 14 Communication unit, 15 Communication unit, 16 Upper communication unit, 21 Lighting unit, 22 Memory unit, 23 Control unit, 24 Communication unit, 31 Memory unit, 32 Sensor unit, 33 Control unit, 34 Communication unit, 41 Input unit, 42 Communication unit, 50 Processing circuit, 51 Processor, 52 Memory, 53 Dedicated hardware

Claims

1. an illuminance sensor for detecting a current illuminance value in a detection range; a lighting device that emits light into the detection range; a first calculation unit that calculates an external illuminance value that is a contribution of daylight from the current illuminance value detected by the illuminance sensor; a memory unit in which a daylight correction factor is stored; a second calculation unit that calculates a control illuminance value by adding a detected illuminance value obtained by multiplying the external illuminance value calculated by the first calculation unit by the daylight correction factor stored in the memory unit to an illumination illuminance value that is a value obtained by subtracting an external illuminance value from the current illuminance value detected by the illuminance sensor; a generator that generates a control command for the lighting device so that the control illuminance value calculated by the second calculator tracks the target illuminance value; Equipped with The memory unit stores a daylight correction factor for each of a plurality of time periods in a day, The second calculation unit calculates the control illuminance value using a daylight correction factor set for a time period that includes a current time among the plurality of time periods.

2. a date and time information management unit that outputs date and time information; an extraction unit that acquires date and time information from the date and time information management unit; Equipped with The memory unit stores a daylight correction factor for each of a plurality of periods in a year and for each of the plurality of time zones, the extraction unit extracts a daylight correction factor set for a time period including a current date and time; The lighting system according to claim 1 , wherein the second calculation unit calculates a control illuminance value using the daylight correction factor extracted by the extraction unit.

3. An extraction unit is provided, The memory unit stores a daylight correction factor according to latitude, 3. The lighting system according to claim 1, wherein the extractor extracts the daylight correction factor based also on information about a set latitude.

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