Lighting Equipment Inspection System

Abstract

This reduces the burden on inspection workers compared to conventional methods. [Solution] The lighting device inspection system includes a lighting device (100) having a self-inspection function and configured to be connectable to an external network (300), and a remote control terminal (200) having a function of sending inspection instructions to cause the lighting device (100) to perform a self-inspection and configured to be connectable to the external network (300). When the lighting device (100) receives an inspection instruction via the external network (300), it performs a self-inspection and sends inspection result information that is information on the results of the self-inspection. The remote control terminal (200) receives the inspection result information via the external network (300) and creates a report or inspection form based on the inspection result information.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a lighting device inspection system. [Background technology]

[0002] Disaster prevention lighting devices, such as emergency lights and emergency exit lights, must ensure that their light sources are lit for the required duration in an emergency. For this reason, disaster prevention lighting devices must be inspected to confirm their performance during emergency lighting. Conventional disaster prevention lighting devices without a self-inspection function require an inspector to confirm that the light is lit for the required duration, for example by continuously pressing an inspection switch. Even with self-inspection functions, inspectors must be present at the installation site to visually check the status of the disaster prevention lighting device. Thus, conventional inspections of disaster prevention lighting devices are time-consuming and place a heavy burden on the inspector.

[0003] Therefore, for example, Patent Document 1 describes an automatic inspection system equipped with an emergency light control and monitoring panel that has the function of controlling and monitoring multiple emergency light automatic inspection devices by connecting communication units to each other to build a network. This automatic inspection system reduces the burden on inspection workers by inspecting multiple emergency lights at once. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-111347 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In Patent Document 1, the start of inspection work by the inspection worker and confirmation of the inspection results must be carried out at the location where the control monitoring panel is located. For this reason, Patent Document 1 still places a heavy burden on the inspection worker.

[0006] The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a lighting device inspection system that can reduce the burden on inspection workers compared to conventional systems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The lighting device inspection system of the present invention comprises a lighting device having a self-inspection function and configured to be connectable to an external network, a remote control terminal having a function of sending inspection instructions to cause the lighting device to perform a self-inspection and configured to be connectable to an external network, and a storage system that stores information related to the self-inspection by the lighting device. The external network includes a network line to which the remote control terminal and the lighting device can be connected, and the storage system connected to the network line. When the lighting device receives an inspection instruction via an external network, it performs a self-inspection and transmits inspection result information, which is information on the results of the self-inspection. The storage system receives and stores the inspection result information transmitted by the lighting device. The remote control terminal creates a report or inspection form in format data specified by relevant laws and regulations based on the inspection result information stored in the storage system. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the lighting device inspection system and lighting device of the present invention, it is possible to reduce the burden on inspection workers compared to conventional methods. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of a lighting device inspection system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is a functional block diagram of a lighting device inspection system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3] 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a lighting device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 4] 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the lighting device inspection system according to the first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a screen display of the remote control terminal according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the lighting device inspection system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating grouping according to the third embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the lighting device inspection system including a group of lighting devices according to the third embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a modified example of the lighting device inspection system according to the third embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an inspection instruction transmission operation in a modified example of the third embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the lighting device inspection system according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the lighting device inspection system according to the fifth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The same reference numerals in the drawings indicate the same or corresponding parts. Duplicate descriptions will be appropriately simplified or omitted.

[0011] Embodiment 1 Fig. 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of a lighting device inspection system according to embodiment 1. Fig. 2 is a functional block diagram of the lighting device inspection system according to embodiment 1. As shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the lighting device inspection system according to this embodiment includes a lighting device 100 and a remote control terminal 200.

[0012] The lighting device 100 provided in the lighting device inspection system according to this embodiment has a self-inspection function. The lighting device 100 is, for example, a lighting device for disaster prevention such as an emergency light or an emergency guide light.

[0013] The lighting device 100 of this embodiment is characterized in that it is configured to be connectable to an external network 300. As an example, the lighting device 100 is equipped with a communication interface 101 as communication means that can be connected to the external network 300. The external network 300 is a network external to the lighting device 100, and is configured by a network line 301 and the like. The network line 301 corresponds to, for example, a telephone line, ADSL, or optical line owned by a telecommunications carrier.

[0014] The remote control terminal 200 is a terminal configured to be connectable to an external network 300. Examples of the remote control terminal 200 include mobile devices such as smartphones, tablet terminals, and personal computers that are connectable to a network line 301. As an example, the remote control terminal 200 is equipped with a communication interface 201 that is connectable to the external network 300.

[0015] The remote control terminal 200 may be a general-purpose device such as a mobile device, a tablet terminal, or a personal computer, or may be a terminal such as a remote controller dedicated to the lighting device inspection system of this embodiment. An application or software for using the lighting device inspection system is installed in the remote control terminal 200. The remote control terminal 200 is operated by an inspection worker who inspects the lighting device 100. The inspection worker inspects the lighting device 100 by operating the remote control terminal 200.

[0016] In the lighting device inspection system of the present embodiment configured as described above, the lighting device 100 and the remote control terminal 200 can communicate with each other via the external network 300. The lighting device 100 and the remote control terminal 200 can communicate with each other regardless of their respective locations. In other words, the remote control terminal 200 can communicate with the lighting device 100 no matter where the inspection worker operating the remote control terminal 200 is located.

[0017] The remote control terminal 200 has a screen and a function of transmitting inspection instructions to cause the lighting device 100 to perform a self-inspection. An inspection worker operates the remote control terminal 200 to cause the remote control terminal 200 to transmit the inspection instructions. The lighting device 100 receives the inspection instructions transmitted from the remote control terminal 200 via the external network 300. In this way, the inspection worker can transmit inspection instructions to the lighting device 100 from any location by operating the remote control terminal 200 connected to the external network 300.

[0018] The lighting device 100 connected to the external network 300 receives the inspection instruction transmitted from the remote control terminal 200 via the external network 300. Upon receiving the inspection instruction, the lighting device 100 performs a self-inspection. After performing the self-inspection, the lighting device 100 transmits inspection result information, which is information on the results of the self-inspection.

[0019] The remote control terminal 200 connected to the external network 300 receives the inspection result information transmitted from the lighting device 100 via the external network 300. The remote control terminal 200 connected to the external network 300 can receive the inspection result information at any position, regardless of the position of the remote control terminal 200 relative to the lighting device 100. The remote control terminal 200 that has received the inspection result information displays the inspection result information on the screen.

[0020] According to the lighting device inspection system of the present embodiment configured as described above, an inspection worker can inspect the lighting device 100 at any location. Furthermore, the inspection worker can check the inspection results of the lighting device 100 at any location. This embodiment can reduce the time required to inspect the lighting device 100. Furthermore, the display of the inspection result information by the remote control terminal 200 is performed at any time selected by the inspection worker operating the remote control terminal 200. The inspection worker can check the inspection results of the lighting device 100 at any time. In this way, the lighting device inspection system of this embodiment can further reduce the burden on the inspection worker.

[0021] Communication between the lighting device 100 and the remote control terminal 200 may be performed via a storage system 310 connected to the network line 301. The storage system 310 is a system that temporarily holds or stores information. The storage system 310 is built on, for example, a server connected to the network line 301.

[0022] Furthermore, the lighting device 100 may be configured to connect to the network line 301 via the storage system 310. Similarly, the remote control terminal 200 may be configured to connect to the network line 301 via the storage system 310. In this disclosure, what is simply referred to as the "external network 300" includes the storage system 310 and the network line 301 collectively.

[0023] 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the lighting device 100 according to the first embodiment. Here, with reference to each drawing, each component of the lighting device inspection system according to the present embodiment will be described in more detail. As described above, communication between the lighting device 100 and the remote control terminal 200 may be performed via the storage system 310. Hereinafter, as an example, a lighting device inspection system including the lighting device 100, the remote control terminal 200, and the storage system 310 will be described.

[0024] As shown in Fig. 3, the lighting device 100 has a built-in storage battery 102. The lighting device 100 also has a light source 103 that can be turned on by power from the storage battery 102 in an emergency. Furthermore, the lighting device 100 has a control unit 110 for controlling the overall operation of the lighting device 100, as shown in Figs. 2 and 3.

[0025] The control unit 110 includes a control circuit 120 and a memory / arithmetic device 130. The control unit 110 also includes a rectifier circuit 111 for converting power supplied from an external AC power source, as shown in Fig. 3. The rectifier circuit 111 is not shown in Fig. 2.

[0026] The control circuit 120 is a circuit for controlling the operations of the storage battery 102, the light source 103, etc. The control circuit 120 includes, for example, a power generation circuit 121 connected to the rectifier circuit 111. The control circuit 120 also includes, for example, a charging circuit 122 for charging the storage battery 102. The control circuit 120 also includes, for example, a normal lighting circuit 123 and an emergency lighting circuit 124. The normal lighting circuit 123 is for lighting the light source 103 under normal circumstances. The emergency lighting circuit 124 is for lighting the light source 103 using power from the storage battery 102 in an emergency.

[0027] The self-inspection of the lighting device 100 of this embodiment is performed by operating a control circuit 120 connected to the storage battery 102 and the light source 103. Note that the lighting device 100 may be provided with, for example, an inspection switch 104 that allows an inspection worker to manually perform the inspection. The control circuit 120, which is an example of a self-inspection means, may operate so as to perform the self-inspection when a self-inspection switch (not shown) is operated.

[0028] The memory and calculation device 130 is, for example, a device such as a microcomputer. Various types of information are stored in the memory and calculation device 130. The memory and calculation device 130 also performs various calculations. The memory and calculation device 130 and the control circuit 120 are connected to each other. Various signals are input to the memory and calculation device 130 from the control circuit 120. The control circuit 120 also operates based on the output from the memory and calculation device 130.

[0029] 2, the memory and calculation device 130 includes, for example, a CPU 131, a transmitting / receiving unit 132, an inspection result saving and updating unit 133, an inspection performing unit 134, and an operating condition memory unit 135. The CPU 131 executes a program stored in advance to perform preset processing.

[0030] The transmitting / receiving unit 132 is for receiving an inspection instruction from the remote control terminal 200 via the communication interface 101 and the external network 300. The transmitting / receiving unit 132 is also for transmitting inspection result information via the communication interface 101 and the external network 300. In this embodiment, the transmitting / receiving unit 132 constitutes a receiving means and a transmitting means provided in the lighting device 100.

[0031] The inspection result storage and update unit 133 is used to store inspection result information, which is information on the results of self-inspection of the lighting device 100, and to update the stored inspection result information. The inspection result information stored in the inspection result storage and update unit 133 is transmitted by the transmission / reception unit 132 to the remote control terminal 200 via the communication interface 101 and the external network 300.

[0032] The inspection execution unit 134 is for executing a self-inspection of the lighting device 100. When the transmission / reception unit 132 receives an inspection instruction, the inspection execution unit 134 performs processing for operating the control circuit 120 so that a self-inspection is executed. The inspection execution unit 134 in this embodiment is an example of a self-inspection means for executing a self-inspection. Furthermore, the operating condition storage unit 135 stores various operating conditions of the lighting device 100.

[0033] 2, the remote control terminal 200 is equipped with a memory and processing device 230. This memory and processing device 230 is a device such as a microcomputer, similar to the memory and processing device 130. An application or software for using the lighting device inspection system is installed in the memory and processing device 230 and executed by the memory and processing device 230.

[0034] 2, the memory and calculation device 230 includes, for example, a CPU 231, a transmitting / receiving unit 232, an inspection instruction unit 233, an inspection reservation unit 234, and an operating condition memory unit 235. Like the CPU 131, the CPU 231 executes a program stored in advance to perform preset processing.

[0035] The transmitting / receiving unit 232 communicates with the transmitting / receiving unit 132 via the communication interface 201, the external network 300, and the communication interface 101. In this embodiment, the transmitting / receiving unit 232 transmits inspection instructions to the transmitting / receiving unit 132 and receives inspection result information from the transmitting / receiving unit 132. The inspection result information received by the transmitting / receiving unit 232 is displayed on a screen such as a liquid crystal display provided on the remote control terminal 200. Note that the means by which the remote control terminal 200 displays the inspection result information may be any means and is not limited to a liquid crystal display.

[0036] The inspection instructing unit 233 generates an inspection instruction in response to an operation of the remote control terminal 200 by an inspection worker. The inspection instruction generated by the inspection instructing unit 233 is transmitted by the transmitting / receiving unit 232. Furthermore, the inspection worker generates reservation information for performing a scheduled inspection via the inspection reservation unit 234. This reservation information includes information such as the time when the lighting device 100 will perform a self-inspection. The reservation information is generated in response to an operation of the remote control terminal 200 by the inspection worker. The reservation information generated by the inspection reservation unit 234 is transmitted by the transmitting / receiving unit 232 together with the inspection instruction.

[0037] The operating condition storage unit 235 also stores various operating conditions of the lighting device 100 set by the inspection worker. The operating conditions stored in the operating condition storage unit 235 are transmitted by the transmitting / receiving unit 232. The transmitted operating conditions are received by the transmitting / receiving unit 132 of the lighting device 100 via the external network 300. The operating conditions received by the transmitting / receiving unit 132 are stored in the operating condition storage unit 135.

[0038] Next, the operation of the lighting device inspection system configured as above will be described. Fig. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the operation of the lighting device inspection system according to the first embodiment.

[0039] First, the inspection worker operates the remote control terminal 200 to transmit an inspection instruction to cause the lighting device 100 to be inspected to perform a self-inspection. The inspection worker may also transmit reservation information together with the inspection instruction to the remote control terminal 200 (step S201).

[0040] The inspection instruction transmitted from the remote control terminal 200 is received by the storage system 310 (step S301). The storage system 310 transmits the received inspection instruction to the lighting device 100 to be inspected (step S302).

[0041] The inspection instruction transmitted from the storage system 310 is received by the lighting device 100 (step S101). Upon receiving the inspection instruction, the lighting device 100 automatically performs a self-inspection (step S102). When reservation information is transmitted from the remote control terminal 200, the reservation information is received by the lighting device 100 via the storage system 310. Upon receiving the reservation information, the lighting device 100 automatically performs a self-inspection at the time set by the inspection worker based on the reservation information. After completing the self-inspection, the lighting device 100 transmits inspection result information, which is information on the results of the self-inspection (step S103).

[0042] The inspection result information transmitted from the lighting device 100 is received by the storage system 310 (step S303). The inspection result information is temporarily stored in the storage system 310. The inspection result information transmitted from the lighting device 100 is received by the remote operation terminal 200 via the storage system 310, similar to when an inspection instruction is transmitted from the remote operation terminal 200.

[0043] In this embodiment, the remote control terminal 200 receives and displays the inspection result information at any time selected by the inspection worker operating the remote control terminal 200. For example, the remote control terminal 200 has a function of transmitting an inspection result request to receive the inspection result information. When the inspection worker wants to check the inspection result information, the inspection worker operates the remote control terminal 200 to transmit the inspection result request (step S202). The inspection result request transmitted from the remote control terminal 200 is received by the storage system 310 (step S304).

[0044] The storage system 310 that has received the inspection result request transmits the inspection result information that has been temporarily stored (step S305). The remote control terminal 200 that transmitted the inspection result request by operation of the inspection worker receives the inspection result information transmitted from the storage system 310 (step S203). The remote control terminal 200 that has received the inspection result information displays the inspection result information. The inspection worker confirms the inspection result information displayed by the remote control terminal 200, and the inspection of the lighting device 100 is completed (step S204).

[0045] The lighting device inspection system of this embodiment may include a plurality of lighting devices 100. The individual identification of each of the plurality of lighting devices 100 is performed using an address that is set in advance for each lighting device 100. The address of each lighting device 100 is set, for example, by writing the address to the memory and processing device 130 on a production line when the control unit 110 is produced. The address of each lighting device 100 is set, for example, so that the last digit counts up for each lighting device 100.

[0046] When the lighting device 100 is installed, the address information of the lighting device 100 is acquired by the remote control terminal 200 or another device. The acquired address information is transmitted to an inspection worker. The inspection worker checks the address information and transmits an inspection instruction to any lighting device 100 to be inspected.

[0047] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a screen display of the remote control terminal 200 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5(a) is an image of the screen of the remote control terminal 200 when an inspection instruction and reservation information are transmitted. As shown in FIG. 5(a), the screen of the remote control terminal 200 displays address information for each lighting device 100. The inspection worker checks the displayed address information and selects the lighting device 100 to be inspected. The inspection worker then sets an inspection start time for each lighting device 100 to be inspected. The inspection worker selects an inspection start time immediately or an arbitrary time that has been set, and presses the send button. This causes the inspection instruction to be transmitted. Furthermore, if an arbitrary time has been set, reservation information is transmitted.

[0048] Once the inspection start time has been set, it can be changed as long as it is before the time arrives. Information about the inspection start time once set is stored in the storage system 310. The information stored in the storage system 310 is updated as the inspection worker repeatedly operates the remote control terminal 200. This changes the inspection start time.

[0049] 5(b) is an image of the screen of the remote control terminal 200 when an inspection result request is sent. As shown in FIG. 5(b), address information of each lighting device 100 for which an inspection has been performed is displayed. The inspection worker checks the displayed address information, checks the address information of the lighting device 100 for which he or she wants to check the inspection results, and presses the send button. As a result, an inspection result request is sent to obtain inspection result information for the lighting device 100 corresponding to the checked address information.

[0050] 5(c) is an image of the screen of the remote control terminal 200 when the inspection result information is displayed. The inspection result information displayed by the remote control terminal 200 includes, for example, the pass / fail result of the inspection of each lighting device 100, the lighting time, the discharge voltage (voltage of the storage battery) after a specified time, the judgment result of the storage battery life, etc.

[0051] As described above, by configuring the lighting device inspection system, an inspection worker can inspect the lighting device 100 without having to go to the site where the lighting device 100 is located. The inspection worker can remotely control the lighting device 100 via the external network 300 by operating the remote control terminal 200. Furthermore, the inspection worker can, for example, have the lighting device 100 perform a self-inspection at night and check the inspection results at a time that is convenient for the inspection worker. The lighting device inspection system of this embodiment can reduce the amount of time that the inspection worker is tied up in inspection work.

[0052] For example, when inspecting emergency lights with a standard effective lighting time, the time that an inspector is required to perform the inspection from start to finish can be reduced by approximately 30 minutes compared to conventional methods. When inspecting emergency lights with a long-term rating, the time that an inspector is required to perform the inspection from start to finish can be reduced by approximately 60 minutes compared to conventional methods. Also, when inspecting emergency lights with a standard effective lighting time, the time that an inspector is required to perform the inspection from start to finish can be reduced by approximately 20 minutes compared to conventional methods. When inspecting emergency lights with a long-term rating, the time that an inspector is required to perform the inspection from start to finish can be reduced by approximately 60 minutes compared to conventional methods.

[0053] As described above, the lighting device inspection system and lighting device 100 of the present embodiment can reduce the burden on an inspection worker compared to conventional systems. For example, when there is no one in a building in which lighting device 100 is installed, such as at night, the inspection worker can inspect lighting device 100 without entering the building. Furthermore, this also reduces the risk of an insufficient inspection being performed that does not include items that should be performed, such as simply checking whether emergency lighting is turned on.

[0054] Note that communication between the lighting device 100 and the remote control terminal 200 may be performed without going through the storage system 310. For example, the storage of the inspection result information may be performed by a storage and calculation device 130 such as a microcomputer mounted on the lighting device 100 instead of the storage system 310. The inspection result request transmitted from the remote control terminal 200 may be received by the lighting device 100. The lighting device 100 may be configured to transmit the inspection result information upon receiving the inspection result request transmitted from the remote control terminal 200.

[0055] Embodiment 2 Next, a second embodiment will be described. Portions that are the same as or equivalent to those in the first embodiment will be assigned the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof will be simplified or omitted. The lighting device inspection system of this embodiment includes a lighting device 100 and a remote control terminal 200, as in the first embodiment. The lighting device 100 and the remote control terminal 200 communicate via an external network 300. The external network 300 includes, for example, a network line 301 and a storage system 310.

[0056] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the operation of the lighting device inspection system of the second embodiment. The lighting device inspection system of the present embodiment shown in FIG. 6 is characterized by having a repeat function. When the power of the remote control terminal 200 is off or when the remote control terminal 200 is out of range and cannot connect to the network line 301, the inspection result information transmitted from the lighting device 100 may not reach the remote control terminal 200. The repeat function is a function for retransmitting the inspection result information when the inspection result information does not reach the remote control terminal. Hereinafter, the operation of the lighting device inspection system of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 6, focusing on the differences from the first embodiment.

[0057] 6(a), steps S211 and S212 are similar to steps S201 and S202 in the first embodiment, respectively, and therefore detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted. Also, steps S311 to S314 are similar to steps S301 to S304 in the first embodiment, and therefore detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted. Steps S111 to S113 are similar to steps S101 to S103 in the first embodiment, and therefore detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0058] The storage system 310 stores the inspection result information received in step S313. When the storage system 310 receives the inspection result request in step S314, it transmits the stored inspection result information (step S315). Here, if the inspection result information transmitted by the storage system 310 is not received by the remote operation terminal 200 (step S213), the storage system 310 retransmits the inspection result information. For example, the storage system 310 retransmits the inspection result information when a certain time has elapsed since transmitting the inspection result information. This certain time is, for example, set in advance by the remote operation terminal 200. The storage system 310 manages information so that the inspection result information received by the remote operation terminal 200 is the latest inspection result information.

[0059] When the inspection result information transmitted by the storage system 310 is received by the remote control terminal 200 (step S213), the inspection result information is displayed by the remote control terminal 200. The inspection worker checks the displayed inspection result information, and the inspection work of the lighting device 100 is completed (step S214).

[0060] Moreover, Fig. 6(b) shows a modified example of embodiment 2. As shown in Fig. 6(b), the retransmission of the inspection result information may be performed by lighting device 100. The modified example of embodiment 2 shown in Fig. 6(b) will be described in more detail below.

[0061] In Figure 6(b), steps S221 and S222 are respectively the same as steps S211 and S212 in Figure 6(a). Steps S321 and S322 in Figure 6(b) are respectively the same as steps 311 and 312 in Figure 6(a). Also, steps S325 and S326 in Figure 6(b) are respectively the same as steps 314 and 315 in Figure 6(a). Steps S121 to S123 in Figure 6(b) are respectively the same as steps S111 to S113 in the first embodiment in Figure 6(a).

[0062] The inspection result information transmitted from the lighting device 100 in step S123 is received and stored in the storage system 310. The storage system 310 determines whether the received inspection result information is the information transmitted from the lighting device 100 for the first time or is the information that has been retransmitted (step S323).

[0063] If the received inspection result information is the information transmitted for the first time from the lighting device 100, the storage system 310 waits while storing the inspection result information (step S324). If the received inspection result information is the information retransmitted from the lighting device 100, the storage system 310 transmits the inspection result information. The storage system 310 also transmits the inspection result information when an inspection result request is received in step S325 (step S326).

[0064] When the inspection result information transmitted by the storage system 310 is received by the remote operation terminal 200 (step S223), the inspection result information is displayed by the remote operation terminal 200. The inspection worker checks the displayed inspection result information, and the inspection of the lighting device 100 is completed (step S224). When the inspection result information transmitted by the storage system 310 is not received by the remote operation terminal 200 (step S223), the storage system 310 transmits an inspection result request to the lighting device 100 to request that the lighting device 100 retransmit the inspection result information (step S327). The lighting device 100 that has received the inspection result request from the storage system 310 retransmits the inspection result information.

[0065] 6(a) and step S223 in FIG. 6(b), in other words, is a determination as to whether the inspection result information has been received by the remote control terminal 200 within a certain time period since the lighting device 100 or the storage system 310 transmitted the inspection result information. The above determination may be performed by any of the remote control terminal 200, the storage system 310, and the lighting device 100.

[0066] As described above, the lighting device inspection system of this embodiment is configured such that, if the inspection result information is not received by the remote control terminal 200 within a certain time after the inspection result information is transmitted to the remote control terminal 200, at least one of the lighting device 100 and the storage system 310 retransmits the inspection result information. The lighting device inspection system of this embodiment, for example, reduces the effort required for an inspector to check the inspection results. It also reduces the possibility of an inspector making a mistake, such as forgetting to check the inspection results.

[0067] Note that, as in the first embodiment, communication between the lighting device 100 and the remote control terminal 200 may be performed without going through the storage system 310. Management of the inspection result information may be performed by a storage and processing device 130 such as a microcomputer mounted in the control unit 110 of the lighting device 100, instead of the storage system 310.

[0068] Embodiment 3 Next, a third embodiment will be described. As in the above-described embodiments, the lighting device inspection system of this embodiment includes a lighting device 100 and a remote control terminal 200. As in the above-described embodiments, the lighting device 100 and the remote control terminal 200 communicate with each other via an external network 300.

[0069] 7 and 8 are diagrams showing an example of the operation of the lighting device inspection system according to the present embodiment. In particular, Fig. 7 is a diagram explaining grouping according to the third embodiment. Also, Fig. 8 shows an example of the operation of the lighting device inspection system including the grouped lighting devices according to the third embodiment.

[0070] The lighting device inspection system of this embodiment shown in Figs. 7 and 8 is characterized by having a multiple simultaneous inspection function. For example, there may be multiple lighting devices 100 to be inspected installed in the same building. The multiple simultaneous inspection function is a function that groups multiple lighting devices 100 into a single lighting device group and inspects the grouped multiple lighting devices 100 collectively. Below, with reference to Figs. 7 and 8, the lighting device inspection system of this embodiment will be described, focusing on the differences from the above-mentioned embodiments. Note that in Fig. 7, for simplicity, "group" is abbreviated as "GP."

[0071] In this embodiment, the remote control terminal 200 has a function of transmitting a grouping instruction for grouping a plurality of lighting devices 100 into a lighting device group. As shown in Fig. 7, an inspection worker operates the remote control terminal 200 to transmit a grouping instruction for grouping a plurality of lighting devices 100 to be inspected together into a lighting device group (step S231). The number of lighting device groups may be one or two or more, that is, any number. The grouping is set using addresses for identifying individual lighting devices 100.

[0072] The grouping instruction transmitted from the remote control terminal 200 is received by the lighting device 100 (step S131) ​​via the storage system 310 (steps S331 and S332). The lighting device 100 performs grouping based on the received grouping instruction (step S132). When the grouping is completed, the lighting device 100 transmits grouping completion information indicating that the grouping is completed (step S133).

[0073] The grouping completion information transmitted from the lighting device 100 is passed through the storage system 310 (steps S333 and S334) and received by the remote control terminal 200 (step S232). When the inspection worker confirms the grouping completion information received by the remote control terminal 200, the grouping shown in Fig. 7 is completed.

[0074] After grouping is complete, the inspection worker operates the remote control terminal 200 to transmit an inspection instruction to the lighting devices to be inspected to perform a self-inspection, as shown in FIG. 8 (step S241). The subsequent operations are basically the same as those in the first embodiment. Steps S241 to S244 in FIG. 8 are the same as steps S201 to S204 in the first embodiment, and therefore detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted. Steps S341 to S345 are the same as steps S301 to S305 in the first embodiment, and therefore detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted. Furthermore, steps S141 to S143 are the same as steps S101 to S103 in the first embodiment, and therefore detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0075] In this embodiment, the remote control terminal 200 transmits an inspection instruction to each lighting device group, as shown in FIG. 8. The inspection instruction transmitted from the remote control terminal 200 is simultaneously transmitted to the multiple lighting devices 100 included in the lighting device group. Each lighting device 100 performs a self-inspection upon receiving the inspection instruction. In this embodiment, an inspection worker can inspect multiple lighting devices 100 at once.

[0076] 8, each lighting device group transmits inspection result information to the remote control terminal 200. In this embodiment, an inspection worker can check the inspection results of multiple lighting devices 100 all at once. In this way, the lighting device inspection system of this embodiment can further reduce the burden on the inspection worker.

[0077] The lighting devices 100 to be grouped do not necessarily have to be installed in the same building. For example, lighting devices 100 installed in a first building and lighting devices 100 installed in a second building may be grouped into one lighting device group. Furthermore, the inspection worker may operate the remote control terminal 200 to receive inspection result information for some, but not all, of the lighting devices 100 included in the lighting device group.

[0078] Furthermore, communication between the lighting device 100 and the remote control terminal 200 may be performed without going through the storage system 310, as in the first and second embodiments. For example, the grouping process and management of the grouping completion information may be performed by the storage system 310, or may be performed by the memory and processing device 130 installed in the lighting device 100.

[0079] Moreover, Fig. 9 is a diagram showing a modification of the lighting device inspection system of the third embodiment. Fig. 10 is a diagram showing an inspection instruction transmission operation in the modification of the third embodiment. In this modification, the lighting device inspection system is characterized by further having a scheduling function. The scheduling function is a function for shifting the timing at which each lighting device 100 is inspected.

[0080] As in the above-described embodiment, in this modified example, the inspection worker transmits a grouping instruction to group multiple lighting devices 100 that the inspection worker wishes to inspect together into a lighting device group (step S251). Here, the inspection worker sets one of the multiple lighting devices 100 that the inspection worker wishes to group into a lighting device group as a master device. The lighting devices other than this master device are set as slave devices to this master device. The grouping instruction, which includes information regarding the settings of the master device and the slave devices, is transmitted to the lighting devices 100 via the storage system 310 (steps S351 and S352).

[0081] The grouping instruction, which includes information about the settings of the master device and the slave devices, is received by each lighting device 100 included in the lighting device group (steps S151a and S151b). The lighting devices 100 then group themselves based on the received grouping instruction (steps S152a and S152b). This forms a lighting device group. One of the lighting devices in the lighting device group becomes the master device, and the others become slave devices.

[0082] The lighting device group including the parent device and the child devices transmits grouping completion information (steps S153a and S153b). The grouping completion information transmitted from the lighting device group is passed through the storage system 310 (steps S353 and S354) and received by the remote control terminal 200 (step S252). When the inspection worker confirms the grouping completion information received by the remote control terminal 200, the setting of the parent device and the child devices and the grouping are completed.

[0083] After the setting and grouping of the parent and child units are completed, the inspection worker operates the remote control terminal 200 to transmit an inspection instruction (step S253), as shown in Fig. 10. The inspection instruction transmitted from the remote control terminal 200 is transmitted to the parent and child units via the storage system 310 (steps S355 and S356).

[0084] Here, the storage system 310 transmits inspection instructions so as to stagger the timing at which each lighting device 100 is inspected. For example, the storage system 310 staggers the timing at which the inspection instruction is transmitted to the parent device and the timing at which the inspection instruction is transmitted to the child devices. Furthermore, the storage system 310, for example, includes information on the time at which each lighting device 100 starts inspection in the inspection instruction transmitted to each lighting device 100. This time is set to be different for each lighting device 100. Note that the management of the inspection instructions transmitted so as to stagger the timing at which each lighting device 100 is inspected may be performed by the memory and calculation device 230 mounted on the remote operation terminal 200, rather than by the storage system 310.

[0085] As shown in FIG. 9, the parent unit and the child unit receive an inspection instruction (steps S154a and S154b). The parent unit and the child unit that have received the inspection instruction then perform a self-inspection (steps S155a and S155b). As an example, among the lighting devices, the parent unit starts its self-inspection first. After the parent unit starts its self-inspection, the child units start their self-inspections one by one or multiple by multiple. The intervals at which the self-inspections of the lighting devices 100 start are set to any interval by the inspector operating the remote control terminal 200. Note that the intervals at which the self-inspections of the lighting devices 100 start are preferably equal to or longer than the effective lighting time, which is the time required for the self-inspection.

[0086] The slave unit that has completed the self-inspection transmits the inspection result information to the master unit (step S156b). The master unit that has completed the self-inspection determines whether it has received all of the inspection result information of the slave units (step S156a). If the master unit that has completed the self-inspection has not received all of the inspection result information of the slave units, it waits until it receives all of the inspection result information of the slave units (step S157a). Once the master unit that has completed the self-inspection has received all of the inspection result information of the slave units, it transmits the inspection result information of each lighting device 100 collectively (step S158a). In this way, in this modification, the inspection result information of the multiple lighting devices 100 included in the lighting device group is transmitted collectively by the master unit.

[0087] The operations from step S158a onwards are the same as the operations from step S143 onwards in Fig. 8. Steps S357 to S359 in Fig. 9 are the same as steps S343 to S345 in Fig. 8, and therefore detailed explanations will be omitted. Also, steps S254 to S256 in Fig. 9 are the same as steps S242 to S244 in Fig. 8, and therefore detailed explanations will be omitted. The inspection result information collectively transmitted by the parent machine is received by the remote operation terminal 200.

[0088] For example, if an emergency occurs while people are inside a building, and all of the lighting devices 100 installed in the building are inspected at the same time, there is a risk that each lighting device 100 may not be able to satisfactorily perform its original function of evacuation guidance, etc. The scheduling function shown in this modified example is an effective function in such a situation.

[0089] Embodiment 4 Next, a fourth embodiment will be described. As with the above-described embodiments, the lighting device inspection system of this embodiment includes a lighting device 100 and a remote control terminal 200. The remote control terminal 200 of this embodiment is characterized by having a report creation function. The report creation function is a function for creating and outputting report data in a specified format.

[0090] Fig. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the operation of the lighting device inspection system according to the fifth embodiment. Steps S261 to S264 in Fig. 11 are similar to steps S201 to S204 in Fig. 4 of the first embodiment. Steps S361 to S365 in Fig. 11 are similar to steps S301 to S395 in Fig. 4 of the first embodiment. Steps S161 to S163 in Fig. 11 are similar to steps S101 to S103 in Fig. 4 of the first embodiment. Detailed description of each step similar to that in the first embodiment will be omitted.

[0091] An inspector of the lighting device 100 is required to compile and report the inspection results in a report or inspection slip. The format of the report or inspection slip is regulated by relevant laws and regulations. In this embodiment, the remote control terminal 200 automatically creates report data describing the inspection results based on the received inspection result information (step S265). The report data is created by, for example, an application or software installed in the remote control terminal 200. In this embodiment, the time required for the inspector to create the report is reduced.

[0092] Here, a specific example of a report creation method will be described. The inspection worker installs a report creation app in the remote control terminal 200 in advance. This report creation app stores format data for specified reports. Here, it is desirable that the format data stored in the report creation app be data in a format compatible with general document creation software. Furthermore, the inspection worker uses the remote control terminal 200 or another device to preset and save information about the type of lighting device 100 in the report creation app. Types of lighting device 100 include, for example, emergency exit type, aisle type, and passenger guide light. When the remote control terminal with the report creation app installed receives inspection result information, the report creation app enters the inspection results in the pre-stored format data based on the inspection result information.

[0093] Note that the report data created by the report creation app does not have to completely conform to the format prescribed by law. For example, the report creation app may create report data to which items other than those related to emergency lighting can be added. Items other than those related to emergency lighting include, for example, the appearance of the lighting device 100 and the results of visual inspection of the indicator lights. In this way, the remote control terminal 200 in this embodiment only needs to be configured to have the function of converting the received inspection result information into data in a preset format and outputting it. The data converted and output by the remote control terminal 200 may be in any format.

[0094] Embodiment 5. Next, a fifth embodiment will be described. As with the above-described embodiments, the lighting device inspection system of this embodiment includes a lighting device 100 and a remote control terminal 200. As with the above-described embodiments, the lighting device 100 and the remote control terminal 200 communicate with each other via an external network 300.

[0095] Fig. 12 is a diagram showing an example of the operation of the lighting device inspection system of the fifth embodiment. The lighting device inspection system of the present embodiment shown in Fig. 12 is characterized by having an inspection progress confirmation function. The inspection progress confirmation function is a function that enables an inspection worker to confirm inspection progress information, which is information on the progress status of the self-inspection of the lighting device 100. Below, with reference to Fig. 12, the lighting device inspection system of the present embodiment will be described, focusing on the differences from the above-mentioned embodiments.

[0096] As in the above-described embodiments, an inspection worker who wishes to inspect a lighting device operates the remote control terminal 200 to transmit an inspection instruction (step S271), as shown in Fig. 12. The inspection instruction transmitted from the remote control terminal 200 is received by the lighting device 100 (step S171) via the storage system 310 (steps S371 and S372). The parent unit and child units that have received the inspection instruction perform a self-inspection (step S172).

[0097] Furthermore, when the inspection operator wishes to check the inspection result information, he or she operates the remote control terminal 200 to transmit an inspection result request (step S272). The inspection result request transmitted from the remote control terminal 200 is transmitted to the lighting device 100 via the storage system 310 (steps S373 and S374).

[0098] Upon receiving the inspection result request, the lighting device 100 determines whether the self-inspection has been completed (step S173). The progress of the self-inspection, such as before the self-inspection is performed, during the self-inspection, and completion of the self-inspection, can be monitored by the storage and calculation device 130, such as a microcomputer, in the control unit 110 inside the lighting device 100. If the self-inspection is completed, the lighting device 100 transmits the inspection result information (step S174). The inspection result information transmitted from the lighting device 100 is stored in the storage system 310 and then transmitted from the storage system 310 (steps S375 and S376). If the self-inspection is completed, the lighting device 100 may transmit the inspection result information to the storage system 310 even if it has not received the inspection result request.

[0099] The inspection result information transmitted from the storage system 310 is received by the remote control terminal 200 (step S273). The remote control terminal 200 that has received the inspection result information displays the inspection result information. The inspection worker checks the inspection result information displayed by the remote control terminal 200, and the inspection of the lighting device 100 is completed (step S274).

[0100] If the self-inspection is not completed in step S173, the lighting device 100 transmits inspection progress information, which is information on the progress status of the self-inspection, to the remote control terminal 200. The inspection progress information is received by the remote control terminal 200 (step S275) via the storage system 310 (steps S377 and S378). The remote control terminal 200 displays the received inspection progress information. In this embodiment, the inspection worker can check not only the inspection results of the lighting device 100 but also the progress status of the self-inspection of the lighting device 100. The inspection progress information includes various statuses, such as whether or not the self-inspection has started and the time elapsed since the self-inspection started. The inspection progress confirmation function of this embodiment further reduces the effort required by the inspection worker to operate the remote control terminal 200 and also shortens the time the inspection worker is confined to checking the inspection results.

[0101] The lighting device inspection system and lighting device according to the present disclosure are not limited to those shown in the above-described embodiments. Furthermore, the configurations and functions disclosed in the above-described embodiments can be combined. The lighting device inspection system and lighting device according to the present disclosure may include any variation and combination of the configurations shown in the above-described embodiments. For example, the lighting device inspection system according to the present disclosure may include any two or more of the repeat function of the second embodiment, the multiple simultaneous inspection function and schedule function of the third embodiment, the report creation function of the fourth embodiment, and the inspection progress confirmation function of the fifth embodiment. [Explanation of symbols]

[0102] 100 Lighting device, 101 Communication interface, 102 Storage battery, 103 Light source, 104 Inspection switch, 110 Control unit, 111 Rectifier circuit, 120 Control circuit, 121 Power generation circuit, 122 Charging circuit, 123 Regular lighting circuit, 130 Memory and calculation device, 131 CPU, 132 Transmitter and receiver, 133 Inspection result storage and update unit, 134 Inspection execution unit, 135 Operating condition memory unit, 200 Remote control terminal, 201 Communication interface, 230 Memory and calculation device, 231 CPU, 232 Transmitter and receiver, 233 Inspection instruction unit, 234 Inspection reservation unit, 235 Operating condition memory unit, 300 External network, 301 Network line, 310 Storage system

Claims

1. a lighting device having a self-inspection function and configured to be connectable to an external network; a remote control terminal that has a function of transmitting an inspection instruction to cause the lighting device to perform a self-inspection, and is configured to be connectable to the external network; a storage system that stores information related to self-inspection by the lighting device; Equipped with the external network includes a network line to which the remote control terminal and the lighting device can be connected, and the storage system connected to the network line; When the lighting device receives the inspection instruction via the external network, the lighting device performs a self-inspection and transmits inspection result information that is information on the result of the self-inspection, the storage system receives and stores the inspection result information transmitted by the lighting device; The remote control terminal is a lighting device inspection system that creates a report or inspection form in accordance with format data prescribed by relevant laws and regulations based on the inspection result information stored in the storage system.

2. The remote control terminal has a function of transmitting an inspection result request to receive the inspection result information, The inspection result information stored in the storage system is transmitted from the storage system that has received the inspection result request to the remote operation terminal, The lighting device inspection system according to claim 1 , wherein the remote control terminal generates a report or inspection form in a format specified by relevant laws and regulations based on the inspection result information received from the storage system.

3. 3. The lighting device inspection system according to claim 2, wherein, upon receiving the inspection result request, the lighting device transmits the inspection result information if the self-inspection has been completed, and transmits inspection progress information, which is information on the progress of the self-inspection, to the remote control terminal if the self-inspection has not been completed.

4. 4. The lighting device inspection system according to claim 1, wherein the lighting device retransmits the inspection result information if the inspection result information is not received by the remote control terminal within a certain time period after transmitting the inspection result information.

5. a lighting device having a self-inspection function and configured to be connectable to an external network; a remote control terminal that has a function of transmitting an inspection instruction to cause the lighting device to perform a self-inspection and is configured to be connectable to an external network; Equipped with When the lighting device receives the inspection instruction via an external network, the lighting device performs a self-inspection and transmits inspection result information that is information on the result of the self-inspection, the remote control terminal receives the inspection result information via an external network, and creates a report or an inspection form based on the inspection result information; the external network includes a network line to which the remote control terminal and the lighting device can be connected, and a storage system connected to the network line; the storage system receives and stores the inspection result information transmitted by the lighting device; the remote control terminal has a function of transmitting an inspection result request to receive the inspection result information, The inspection result information stored in the storage system is transmitted from the storage system that has received the inspection result request to the remote operation terminal, The storage system is a lighting device inspection system that retransmits the inspection result information if the inspection result information is not received by the remote control terminal within a certain period of time after the inspection result information is transmitted.

6. the remote control terminal has a function of transmitting a grouping instruction for grouping the plurality of lighting devices into a lighting device group; the lighting devices are grouped into the lighting device group based on the grouping instruction; The lighting device inspection system according to claim 1 , wherein the inspection instruction transmitted from the remote control terminal is simultaneously transmitted to a plurality of the lighting devices included in the lighting device group.

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