Lighting fixtures and lighting control systems

Abstract

To obtain a lighting fixture and a lighting control system that make it possible to regulate biological rhythms.SOLUTION: The lighting fixture includes a light source unit and a control unit that increases the brightness of the light source unit in accordance with the time of sunrise of the day in a region set in advance.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to lighting fixtures and lighting control systems.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a lighting control method aimed at enhancing the melatonin action on users and adjusting the users' biological rhythms. This lighting control method includes a first control step of controlling either the illuminance or the color temperature in a predetermined space of the light emitted by a lighting device so that the integrated value of the melatonin action amount and time in a first time period from 5:00 to 14:00 becomes 10 μW·h / cm 2 or more.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In recent years, there has been an increasing interest in the quality of sleep. In this regard, for example, it is preferable to sleep in a sleep cycle suitable for an individual and wake up naturally. Generally, it is said that a refreshing awakening can be obtained if one can wake up at the timing of REM sleep. Also, conventionally, humans have lived in a cycle of starting activities with sunrise and resting with sunset. Humans feel the passage of time in a day by being exposed to sunlight, and their internal clocks switch from the night sleep mode to the daytime activity mode. In relation to this, Patent Document 1 has devised a technique for adjusting biological rhythms by light.

[0005] In modern society, life often revolves around a uniform, regular rhythm throughout the year. However, with increasing health consciousness and changes in work styles, there is a growing demand for a healthier lifestyle that is closer to the principles of nature, rather than a uniform one. In particular, Japan has four distinct seasons, so the times of sunrise and sunset differ significantly between summer and winter. Patent Document 1 does not take into account the movement of the sun according to the seasons, and there is a possibility that a light environment favorable to the human biological rhythm cannot be obtained.

[0006] This disclosure was made to solve the aforementioned problems and aims to provide lighting fixtures and lighting control systems that can regulate biological rhythms. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The lighting fixture according to this disclosure comprises a light source unit and a control unit that increases the brightness of the light source unit according to the sunrise time on any given day in a predetermined region, and the control unit changes the time at which it begins to increase the brightness of the light source unit according to an offset time set externally. The brightness of the light source is increased exponentially over time, from before sunrise to after sunrise. ru.

[0008] The lighting control system relating to this disclosure comprises a lighting fixture and a lighting control device that increases the brightness of the lighting fixture according to the sunrise time in a predetermined area on that day, wherein the lighting control device changes the time at which it begins to increase the brightness of the lighting fixture according to an offset time set externally. The brightness of the lighting fixture is increased exponentially over time, from before sunrise to after sunrise. ru. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] In the lighting fixtures and lighting control systems described herein, the brightness of the light source increases according to the time of sunrise on any given day. This allows for the regulation of the body's biological rhythm. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] This is a diagram showing the space in which the lighting fixture according to Embodiment 1 is installed. [Figure 2] It is a diagram for explaining the lighting control system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 3] It is a block diagram showing the configuration of the lighting control system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 4] It is a diagram showing the state where the cover is removed from the lighting fixture according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 5] It is a block diagram showing the configuration of the control unit of the lighting fixture according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 6] It is a diagram showing the initial setting screen of the user interface device according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 7] It is a diagram showing the timer setting screen of the user interface device according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 8] It is a diagram showing the offset setting screen of the user interface device according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 9] It is a diagram showing an example of the sunrise and sunset times of the year. [Figure 10] It is a diagram showing an example of the brightness of outside light. [Figure 11] It is a diagram showing the time change of brightness in the case without offset by the lighting fixture according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 12] It is a diagram showing the time change of brightness in the case with offset by the lighting fixture according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 13] It is a perspective view of the lighting fixture according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 14] It is a cross-sectional view of the lighting fixture according to Embodiment 2. <当 [Figure 15] It is a diagram showing the time change of brightness by the lighting fixture according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 16] It is a diagram showing the time change of brightness by the lighting fixture according to the modification example of Embodiment 2. [Figure 17] It is an enlarged view of FIG. 16.

MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0011] <00当0093>The lighting fixture and lighting control system according to each embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. The same or corresponding components may be denoted by the same reference numerals, and the repeated description may be omitted. The sizes, positional relationships, etc. of the members shown in each drawing may be exaggerated for clarity of explanation. Also, the relationship between color names and chromaticity coordinates, the relationship between the wavelength range of light and the color names of monochromatic light, etc. follow JIS Z8110.

[0012] Embodiment 1. First, the influence of lighting on the human body will be described. The human circadian rhythm is about 25 hours, which is longer than one day. If this is not adjusted to a 24-hour cycle, the rhythm cycle will deviate from one day. Light plays an important role as a synchronization factor for adjusting the rhythm cycle to 24 hours. By being exposed to sunlight, the human body clock can be adjusted to 24 hours. As a result, people live within the rhythm of one day, waking up in the morning and going to bed at night.

[0013] That is, the human body has a synchronization function that utilizes light in order to live in a 24-hour cycle. Specifically, there is a very small area called the suprachiasmatic nucleus in the hypothalamus of the brain. This plays the role of the body clock that controls the circadian rhythm. Also, as cells that give a light signal to this suprachiasmatic nucleus, there are intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells on the retina. Intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells will be referred to as ipRGCs hereinafter.

[0014] IpRGCs contain a photoreceptor protein called melanopsin. Melanopsin has been shown to be involved in the light synchronization of the circadian rhythm. Melanopsin has absorption characteristics according to the wavelength of light, and its peak is around 480 nm to 490 nm.

[0015] Furthermore, melanopsin is thought to be involved in the secretion or suppression of melatonin, a sleep-promoting hormone. For example, it is believed that increased stimulation of ipRGCs suppresses melatonin secretion. Normally, the peak of melatonin secretion in the body occurs at night, and melatonin secretion promotes sleep. Therefore, melatonin secretion is suppressed during the day.

[0016] Figure 1 shows a space 80 in which a lighting fixture 40 according to Embodiment 1 is installed. The lighting control system 100 of this embodiment is a system that provides lighting in a space 80, such as a bedroom in a house. Note that the space 80 may also be a nursing home or a hospital.

[0017] Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating the lighting control system 100 according to Embodiment 1. The lighting control system 100 comprises a user interface device 10 and a lighting fixture 40. The lighting control system 100 only needs to have one or more lighting fixtures 40. As will be described later, the user interface device 10 communicates with the server 50 to obtain the sunrise time and transmits it to the lighting fixture 40.

[0018] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the lighting control system 100 according to Embodiment 1. First, the user interface device 10 will be described. The user interface device 10 is, for example, a battery-powered tablet. The user interface device 10 may also be realized by installing a dedicated application on a general-purpose device such as a smartphone or tablet terminal. The user interface device 10 may also be a device operated by a resident of a room to control the lighting fixture 40. The user interface device 10 may also be a dedicated device for the lighting control system 100. In this case, the user interface device 10 is installed, for example, within space 80. The user interface device 10 may also be installed in a location other than space 80.

[0019] The user interface device 10 comprises an operation reception unit 11, a control unit 12, a communication unit 13, a communication unit 14, a storage unit 15, a display unit 16, and a location identification unit 17. The operation reception unit 11 receives operations such as setting operations for schedule setting, which will be described later. The operation reception unit 11 is implemented by a touch panel or hardware buttons, etc.

[0020] The control unit 12 stores schedule setting information in the storage unit 15 based on the setting operation received by the operation reception unit 11. The schedule setting information is transmitted to the control unit 20 of the lighting fixture 40 by the communication unit 13. Based on the schedule setting information, the control unit 20 controls the lighting state of the lighting fixture 40.

[0021] When the control unit 12 receives a start operation from the operation reception unit 11, it causes the communication unit 13 to send a start instruction signal. This causes the lighting fixture 40 to start scheduled operation. Conversely, when the control unit 12 receives a stop operation from the operation reception unit 11, it causes the communication unit 13 to send a stop instruction signal. This causes the lighting fixture 40 to stop scheduled operation. The control unit 12 is implemented, for example, by a microcomputer or processor.

[0022] The communication unit 13 transmits schedule setting information, start instruction signals, and stop instruction signals to the lighting fixture 40 based on instructions from the control unit 12. Specifically, the communication unit 13 is a communication circuit or communication module for the user interface device 10 to communicate with the lighting fixture 40. The communication performed by the communication unit 13 may be wired communication or wireless communication. There are no particular limitations on the communication standard used for communication. A server may also be interposed between the user interface device 10 and the lighting fixture 40.

[0023] The user interface device 10 and the lighting fixture 40 do not need to communicate continuously. Once the communication unit 13 sends a control command to the lighting fixture 40, such as schedule setting information, a start command signal, or a stop command signal, the lighting fixture 40 stores the control command and thereafter controls itself according to the control command.

[0024] The communication unit 14 communicates with the server 50 to obtain information used, for example, for scheduling. Specifically, the communication unit 14 is a communication circuit or communication module for the user interface device 10 to communicate with the server 50.

[0025] The storage unit 15 stores schedule setting information from the control unit 12. The storage unit 15 also stores the control program executed by the control unit 12. Furthermore, if the user interface device 10 is implemented by a general-purpose information terminal such as a smartphone or tablet, a dedicated application for operating the information terminal as the user interface device 10 is installed in the storage unit 15. The storage unit 15 is, for example, a semiconductor memory such as a non-volatile memory.

[0026] The display unit 16 displays a screen for the user to view in order to set the schedule, based on the control of the control unit 12. The display unit 16 is implemented, for example, by a liquid crystal panel or an organic EL panel.

[0027] The location identification unit 17 identifies the location of the lighting fixture 40. The function of the location identification unit 17 is realized using, for example, the location identification function of a mobile phone, smartphone, etc. The function of the location identification unit 17 may also be realized using GPS (Global Positioning System). Alternatively, the function of the location identification unit 17 may be realized by an application.

[0028] Next, the lighting fixture 40 will be described. The lighting fixture 40 comprises a control unit 20, a lighting circuit 30, an alarm 35, and a light source unit 45. The lighting fixture 40 is a base light that is mounted on the ceiling of a space 80 to illuminate the space 80. As shown in Figure 2, the lighting fixture 40 is circular in plan view, for example, but it may also be rectangular in plan view. The lighting fixture 40 may be a ceiling light, a downlight, or a spotlight.

[0029] Figure 4 shows the lighting fixture 40 according to Embodiment 1 with the cover removed. The light source unit 45 has multiple light sources 45a and 45b with different color temperatures. Although two types of light sources 45a and 45b are shown in Figures 3 and 4, the light source unit 45 may have three or more light sources with different color temperatures. Each of the light sources 45a and 45b is, for example, an SMD (Surface Mount Device) type light-emitting module using an LED as a light-emitting element. Each of the light sources 45a and 45b may also be a COB (Chip On Board) type light-emitting module.

[0030] The lighting circuit 30 lights up the multiple light sources 45a and 45b of the light source unit 45. The lighting circuit 30 is a power supply circuit that supplies power to light up the light source unit 45. The lighting circuit 42 is, for example, a switching circuit.

[0031] Alarm 35 emits an alarm sound based on the scheduled settings.

[0032] The control unit 20 controls the lighting circuit 30 in response to signals from the user interface device 10. The control unit 20 can independently control the light emission state of multiple light sources 45a and 45b via the lighting circuit 30. The light emission state is, for example, color temperature and luminous flux. The control unit 20 can control the brightness and color of the light source unit 45 by controlling the output balance of the multiple light sources 45a and 45b. If there is no need to adjust the color temperature, the light source unit 45 may consist of only one type of light source.

[0033] Figure 5 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the control unit 20 of the lighting fixture 40 according to Embodiment 1. The control unit 20 comprises a lighting control unit 21, a communication unit 22, a timing unit 24, and a storage unit 25. The communication unit 22 receives signals such as schedule setting information from the user interface device 10. The communication unit 22 is a communication circuit or communication module for the lighting fixture 40 to communicate with the user interface device 10.

[0034] The lighting control unit 21 stores the schedule setting information received by the communication unit 22 in the storage unit 25. Subsequently, when the communication unit 22 receives a start instruction signal, it controls the lighting state of the light source unit 45 based on the schedule setting information stored in the storage unit 25. The lighting control unit 21 controls the lighting state of the light source unit 45 according to the schedule setting information and the time measured by the timing unit 24.

[0035] Specifically, the lighting control unit 21 acquires information on the sunrise time for the day in the area where the light source unit 45 is installed, as schedule setting information. The lighting control unit 21 increases the brightness of the light source unit 45 according to the acquired sunrise time information. In this case, the lighting control unit 21 may also change the color temperature of the light source unit 45 in addition to the brightness, according to the sunrise time.

[0036] The lighting control unit 21 is implemented by, for example, a processor, a microcomputer, or a dedicated circuit. Here, the schedule setting information is not limited to sunrise time information, but may also include information about the time to start increasing the brightness of the light source unit 45, or information about the time change in brightness or color temperature of the light source unit 45. Note that the start instruction signal and stop instruction signal described above may not be used depending on the application.

[0037] The timing unit 24 is a timing device that measures the current time and notifies the lighting control unit 21 of the measured time. The timing unit 24 is used by the lighting control unit 21 to cause the light source unit 45 to emit light according to the schedule setting information. Specifically, the timing unit 24 is a real-time clock or the like, but it can be in any form.

[0038] The memory unit 25 stores control programs and schedule setting information executed by the lighting control unit 21. The memory unit 25 is, for example, a semiconductor memory such as a non-volatile memory.

[0039] Next, the setting method for the lighting control system 100 will be described. Figure 6 is a diagram showing the initial setup screen of the user interface device 10 according to Embodiment 1. Here, an example is described in which sunrise time and sunset time information is obtained by an application installed on the user interface device 10. This application also serves as the location identification unit 17 described above. By using the application, the confidentiality of user information can be ensured.

[0040] First, on the application's initial setup screen, the user inputs information such as the country and region where the lighting fixture 40 is installed, the postal code, and the area code from the operation reception unit 11. This transmits the location information to the server 50 via the communication unit 14. Alternatively, the user may use a location identification function such as GPS to obtain the location information of the user interface device 10 and transmit the obtained location information to the server 50. The region set at this time is not limited to the user's current location or the region where the lighting fixture 40 is installed; a future destination may also be set. Furthermore, the region set may be a city or town, a local area such as Sapporo or Naha, or a major international city such as Singapore, London, or New York.

[0041] Server 50 transmits the sunrise and sunset times for the region indicated by the received location information to the user interface device 10. The sunrise and sunset times for the day may be automatically acquired periodically after the initial setup. Thus, the sunrise and sunset times are set in the user interface device 10.

[0042] Figure 7 shows the timer setting screen of the user interface device 10 according to Embodiment 1. On the timer setting screen, the user can select whether to control the lighting fixture 40 at a specified time or to control the lighting fixture 40 in conjunction with the sun. When controlling at a specified time, the lighting state of the lighting fixture 40 is controlled according to the sunrise and sunset times entered by the user, regardless of the sunrise and sunset times information for the day obtained from the server 50. The timer setting screen is provided with an input section for the specified time.

[0043] When controlled by solar synchronization, the lighting status of the lighting fixtures 40 is controlled according to the sunrise and sunset times for the day obtained from the server 50. The timer setting screen displays the sunrise and sunset times for the day obtained from the server 50.

[0044] Furthermore, the timer setting screen includes a section for setting whether or not to enable the offset option. Next, the offset option will be explained. Figure 8 is a diagram showing the offset setting screen of the user interface device 10 according to Embodiment 1. On the offset setting screen, you can select the offset time relative to sunrise and the offset time relative to sunset. By setting the offset time, you can set an offset for the time when the brightness of the light source unit 45 begins to change, which is determined by the sunrise and sunset times. On the offset setting screen, you can select whether to advance or delay the time when the brightness of the light source unit 45 begins to change, and select a specific offset time.

[0045] Information input from the user interface device 10 is transmitted to the lighting fixture 40 as schedule setting information. Specifically, information such as sunrise time, sunset time, and offset time is transmitted to the lighting fixture 40 via the communication unit 13. This completes the setup. Note that during initial setup, the user interface device 10 may store sunrise time and sunset time information for a predetermined period in the storage unit 25 of the lighting fixture 40. The predetermined period may be, for example, one year or several years. This allows the lighting fixture 40 to be controlled normally according to sunrise time, etc., even when, for example, the user interface device 10's battery is dead. The user interface device 10 may only communicate with the lighting fixture 40 when there are setting changes, such as when changing the offset time setting or switching between control at a specified time and control linked to the sun.

[0046] Figure 9 shows an example of sunrise and sunset times throughout the year. As an example, Figure 9 shows the sunrise and sunset times in Yokohama. Figure 10 shows an example of ambient light brightness. Figure 10 shows an example of morning ambient light in Yokohama on November 29, 2021. Sunrise is at 6:30. The sky begins to brighten due to the scattering of light by dust in the atmosphere even before the sun rises above the horizon. This is called twilight and refers to the period from approximately one hour before sunrise. Therefore, the sky becomes dimly lit from around 5:30.

[0047] Figure 11 shows the change in brightness over time when there is no offset with the lighting fixture 40 according to Embodiment 1. The control unit 20 starts increasing the brightness of the light source unit 45 before sunrise. In other words, to reproduce twilight, the lighting fixture 40 is turned on at minimum brightness from a predetermined time before sunrise. The predetermined time is, for example, 60 minutes. The brightness of the lighting fixture 40 before sunrise should preferably be 1% or less of the maximum value. The actual color of the sky before sunrise is close to blue-green, in the range of 10,000 to 20,000K. However, the color of the light emitted by the light source unit 45 as indoor lighting before sunrise should preferably be a warm white color similar to the morning sun.

[0048] The control unit 20 increases the brightness continuously or in steps from the time the brightness starts to increase until sunrise. The brightness should change exponentially so that the amount of stimulation to the ipRGC remains constant. In other words, the control unit 20 increases the brightness of the light source unit 45 according to an exponential function of time.

[0049] Next, we will explain the control after sunrise. To regulate the circadian rhythm, it is desirable to continuously or gradually increase the brightness of the lighting fixture 40 to its maximum value, for example, within one hour of sunrise. The actual brightness of the sun increases as the sun rises. However, due to the effect of adaptation, even if the difference in brightness between 9 am and 12 pm is about twice as large, it is difficult for the human eye to perceive. Also, the brightness that can generally be obtained from lighting fixtures is around several hundred to 1,000 lux, which is about 1 / 100th of the 10,000 to 100,000 lux of sunlight. For this reason, it is not necessary to continue increasing the brightness of the lighting fixture 40 until noon. Furthermore, the control unit 20 should change the light color of the light source unit 45 from incandescent color to warm white, white, and daylight white during this period. By gradually increasing the brightness of the lighting fixture 40 in this way, it is possible to wake up comfortably at the time when sleep is lightest.

[0050] Based on the above, the control unit 20 controls the brightness of the light source unit 45 to a constant level from before noon. In the example shown in Figure 11, the brightness of the light source unit 45 is controlled to a constant level from one hour after sunrise. However, the start time for controlling the brightness to a constant level can be set arbitrarily. Furthermore, the light color during the control to a constant level should preferably be neutral white to daylight white.

[0051] One reason for being unable to get up in the morning is, for example, being forced to wake up from deep sleep. In this embodiment, the feeling of sluggishness upon waking can be improved by continuously or gradually increasing the brightness of the lighting fixture 40.

[0052] Figure 12 shows the time change in brightness when there is an offset with the lighting fixture 40 according to Embodiment 1. When there is an offset, the control unit 20 changes the time at which it starts to increase the brightness of the light source unit 45 according to the offset time set by the external user interface device 10. In the example in Figure 12, the setting is to start increasing the brightness of the light source unit 45 30 minutes earlier. Therefore, the brightness of the light source unit 45 starts to increase from 5:00, which is 30 minutes earlier than the actual twilight start time of 5:30. Also, at 6:00, the light source unit 45 has the brightness and color of light corresponding to the time of sunrise.

[0053] As the seasons change, it is anticipated that control linked to the sun may no longer align with the user's daily rhythm. For example, if a user needs to wake up at 6:00 and leave for work at 7:00, even if the lighting fixture 40 reproduces twilight from 5:30, the user may not wake up at the necessary time. In this case, by using the offset option, the lighting fixture 40 can be turned on, for example, 30 minutes earlier than the actual ambient light. Similarly, if the start time of lighting is too early with sun-linked control, the setting can be adjusted to delay the time at which the brightness of the light source unit 45 begins to increase. Thus, the control unit 20 of this embodiment begins to increase the brightness of the light source unit 45 from a dimming start time that is predetermined to be a certain amount of time before sunrise. In this case, if an offset time is set, the control unit 20 may also begin to increase the brightness of the light source unit 45 at a time that is either before or after the dimming start time by the offset time.

[0054] Next, the effects of this embodiment will be described. As a comparative example of this embodiment, there is a lighting fixture that gradually brightens as a predetermined time approaches. With such a lighting fixture, the actual movement of the sun or the changing seasons are not taken into consideration, and it is possible that a light environment favorable to the human biological rhythm cannot be obtained. In contrast, in this embodiment, the brightness of the lighting fixture 40 is set considering the movement of the sun on that day. Therefore, a light environment favorable to the natural biological rhythm of humans, in line with the natural rhythm, can be obtained. Consequently, the biological rhythm can be regulated, and a natural and comfortable awakening can be achieved.

[0055] Furthermore, it is conceivable to let in natural light by opening and closing curtains to regulate the body's circadian rhythm. In this case, however, the effect of natural light as an alarm clock may be reduced in winter when sunlight is weaker. In contrast, in this embodiment, while the start time of lighting changes with the season, the brightness of the lighting fixture 40 does not depend on the season or weather. Therefore, brightness can be ensured regardless of the season or weather, and the body's circadian rhythm can be regulated.

[0056] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the offset option allows for the seamless integration of natural rhythms into one's actual daily schedule. Additionally, the control unit 20 can increase the brightness of the light source 45 according to the sunrise time in a pre-set region, not limited to the region where the light source 45 is installed. For example, by setting the sunrise and sunset times for a future destination in the lighting control system 100, it becomes possible to adjust one's body to the local rhythm when staying in a location far from one's current location for a certain period. Specifically, this can help reduce jet lag when attending an international conference abroad for about a week.

[0057] Although this example describes a case where the light color changes over time, the light color does not necessarily have to change. Furthermore, the light color of the light source 45 may be set to change within a predetermined range, for example, 3000K to 5000K, or it may be set to fix the light color.

[0058] The time at which alarm 35 emits an alarm sound should be fixed to an arbitrary time, separate from the start time of illumination of the light source unit 45, which varies from day to day. In other words, alarm 35 is controlled by the control unit 20 and emits an alarm sound at a predetermined time regardless of the sunrise time. The volume of alarm 35 can be set, for example, from the user interface device 10, and can also be set to silent. In other words, the function of alarm 35 can be turned off. The alarm sound may also increase in stages. Note that alarm 35 may be located inside the lighting fixture 40 or in the user interface device 10.

[0059] The lighting control system 100 may be equipped with an AI speaker. The alarm sound may be stopped by a voice command to the AI ​​speaker. In addition, the increase in brightness of the light source unit 45 may also be stopped by a voice command to the AI ​​speaker.

[0060] The control unit 20 may change the brightness of the light source unit 45 according to the weather. In this case, the user interface device 10 obtains weather information from the server 50. In this embodiment, the brightness of the lighting fixture 40 is basically maintained regardless of the weather. On the other hand, for example, on days off when it is not necessary to get up, the brightness of the lighting fixture 40 may be adjusted to reflect the ambient light according to the weather. In this case, for example, if the weather is cloudy, the lighting fixture 40 will be set to be dimmer than when the weather is sunny. In this way, the control unit 20 may control the brightness of the light source unit 45 according to the weather according to the date.

[0061] Furthermore, it is assumed that the space 80 will be used by multiple people. When the lighting control system 100 is used by multiple people, multiple light sources 45 may be provided. In this case, the multiple light sources 45 may be controlled independently to suit each user. In this case, it is preferable to use devices that emit directional light, such as spotlights, as the multiple light sources 45. This makes it possible to provide appropriate lighting for each user even when multiple people use the same space 80. Alternatively, multiple lighting fixtures 40 may be provided, and the multiple lighting fixtures 40 may be controlled independently to suit each user.

[0062] Furthermore, the control unit 20 may change the color and brightness of the light source unit 45 as the sun begins to set from evening to night. In other words, the control unit 20 may reduce the brightness of the light source unit 45 according to the time of sunset on that day in the area where the light source unit 45 is installed or in a pre-set area. This makes it possible to provide a light environment that is in line with the natural rhythm and is favorable to the body's natural biological rhythm, even from evening to night. Therefore, it is possible to further regulate the body's biological rhythm.

[0063] Furthermore, previous research has shown that exposure to strong light during the day regulates the body's circadian rhythm, leading to higher quality sleep at night. According to the Well Building Standard (WELL certification), it is preferable to avoid exposure to high equivalent melanopic light after 8 PM. Melatonin secretion increases 14-16 hours after morning light exposure. If you are exposed to light around 6 AM, 14 hours will have passed by 8 PM. In this case, exposure to high equivalent melanopic light after 8 PM will suppress melatonin secretion and disrupt sleep.

[0064] In contrast, in this embodiment, the brightness of the light source 45 decreases according to the time of sunset. This makes it possible to suppress the equivalent melanopic illuminance after 8 PM, thereby promoting sleep through melatonin secretion. Improved sleep quality allows for a natural awakening the following morning. Note that control according to the time of sunset is not required if necessary.

[0065] In this embodiment, the sunrise and sunset times are the sunrise and sunset times for the current day. However, the same sunrise and sunset times may be used for a predetermined period. For example, the sunrise and sunset times may be updated weekly, monthly, or seasonally. Furthermore, the sunrise and sunset times used for control may be representative values ​​for the region that includes the set area. For example, if a city or town is set as the region, the sunrise and sunset times of a representative point in the prefecture or region that includes the set city or town may be used for control. In other words, if Kamakura City is set as the region, the sunrise and sunset times of Yokohama City may be used for control.

[0066] Furthermore, the control unit 20 may be provided outside the lighting fixture 40 as a lighting control device. In other words, the lighting control system 100 may include the lighting fixture 40 and a lighting control device that increases the brightness of the lighting fixture 40 according to the sunrise time on that day in the area where the lighting fixture 40 is installed or in a predetermined area. The lighting control device operates by being supplied with commercial power, for example. The lighting control device communicates with the lighting fixture 40 wirelessly or via wire. The lighting control device transmits control signals to the lighting fixture 40 in response to control commands from the user interface device 10 and controls the lighting fixture 40.

[0067] In this embodiment, the sunrise and sunset times were acquired by the user interface device 10. However, the sunrise and sunset times may also be acquired by the control unit 20 of the lighting fixture 40 through communication with the server 50. In this case, the lighting fixture 40 is provided with a communication unit for communication with the server 50. Alternatively, the storage unit 25 of the control unit 20 may have information on sunrise and sunset times for each region stored in advance.

[0068] These modifications can be appropriately applied to the lighting fixtures and lighting control systems according to the following embodiments. Since the lighting fixtures and lighting control systems according to the following embodiments share many similarities with Embodiment 1, the explanation will focus on the differences from Embodiment 1.

[0069] Embodiment 2. Figure 13 is a perspective view of the lighting fixture 240 according to Embodiment 2. The light source unit 245 of the lighting fixture 240 may illuminate a room by mimicking the sky. Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view of the lighting fixture 240 according to Embodiment 2. The light source unit 245 has light sources 61 and 62, a light-emitting unit 64, and a frame 70. The light source 61 emits light toward the light-emitting unit 64. The light-emitting unit 64 guides the light incident from the light source 61 by total internal reflection, scatters it, and emits it from the front surface 64a, which is the light-emitting surface.

[0070] The frame 70 has a wall-like portion 73 on the front surface 64a of the light-emitting section 64. The frame 70 is, for example, a light-transmitting member. The frame 70 may also include a light-diffusing material that diffuses light. The frame 70 is formed to enclose the space in front of the front surface 64a. The frame 70 may be inclined with respect to the normal to the front surface 64a such that the space in front of the front surface 64a widens as it moves away from the front surface 64a. The frame 70 is composed of four surfaces, but the number of portions 73 constituting the frame 70 may be other than four surfaces. The frame 70 may also include curved surfaces. The frame 70 only needs to include portions located in the direction of light emission from the light-emitting surface of the light-emitting section 64.

[0071] The light source 62 has two types of white LEDs with different color temperatures. The light source 62 is positioned outside the frame 70 and emits light from outside the frame 70. The light emitted from the light source 62 enters the frame 70, passes through the frame 70, or diffuses and transmits through it, and is emitted from the surface of the frame 70 into the space in front of the front surface 64a. When the light-emitting unit 64 simulates a window, the frame 70 can simulate a window frame.

[0072] The light source 61 includes, for example, a blue LED, a white LED, and a green LED. The light source 61, which is used to simulate the sky in the light-emitting unit 64, changes its luminescence state so that the color of the blue sky changes from sunrise to morning to noon. Specifically, as time passes, the total luminous flux of the three colored LEDs is gradually increased, while the ratio of blue luminous flux decreases and the ratio of green and white luminous flux increases. As a result, the light-emitting unit 64 changes from a deep purplish blue to the color of a daytime blue sky. The light-emitting unit 64 may also simulate a cloudy sky or a sunset.

[0073] Figure 15 is a diagram showing the time change in brightness of the lighting fixture 240 according to Embodiment 2. Figure 15 shows the brightness 91 of the light-emitting unit 64, the brightness 92 of the frame 70, and the brightness 93 of the combined light from the light-emitting unit 64 and the frame 70. The light source 62 is controlled in the same way as the light source unit 45 according to Embodiment 1. That is, the brightness of the light source 62 increases according to the sunrise time on the day in the area where the lighting fixture 240 is installed or in a pre-set area. The light sources 61 and 62 may each be controlled so that their brightness increases according to the sunrise time. In addition, the lighting fixture 40 according to Embodiment 1 and the lighting fixture 240 according to this embodiment may be controlled to be linked in the same space. In the example in Figure 15, the control unit 20 starts emitting light from the light source 62 according to the sunrise time. This makes it possible to reproduce the appearance of the sun rising and sunlight shining in.

[0074] Figure 16 shows the time change in brightness due to the lighting fixture 240 according to a modified example of Embodiment 2. Figure 17 is an enlarged view of Figure 16. In the modified example, the curve of the brightness 92 of frame 70, which follows an exponential function, changes at sunrise. This makes it possible to reproduce the sudden increase in brightness at sunrise.

[0075] In this embodiment, the lighting fixture 240 can, for example, recreate a natural environment, thereby creating a sense of openness and reducing feelings of confinement for users in the illuminated space. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the brightness of the light source 62 increases according to the sunrise time in a set region, providing a lighting environment favorable to the natural biological rhythms of humans. Thus, this embodiment offers the potential for new solutions utilizing the lighting fixture 240.

[0076] The technical features described in each embodiment may be used in combination as appropriate. [Explanation of symbols]

[0077] 10 User interface device, 11 Operation reception unit, 12 Control unit, 13 Communication unit, 14 Communication unit, 15 Storage unit, 16 Display unit, 17 Location identification unit, 20 Control unit, 21 Lighting control unit, 22 Communication unit, 24 Timing unit, 25 Storage unit, 30 Lighting circuit, 35 Alarm, 40 Lighting fixture, 42 Lighting circuit, 45 Light source unit, 45a Light source, 50 Server, 61, 62 Light source, 64 Light-emitting unit, 64a Front, 70 Frame, 73 Part, 80 Space, 100 Lighting control system, 240 Lighting fixture, 245 Light source unit

Claims

1. Light source section, A control unit that increases the brightness of the light source according to the sunrise time on the day in a predetermined region, Equipped with, The control unit, The time at which the brightness of the light source unit begins to increase is changed according to an offset time set externally. A lighting fixture characterized by increasing the brightness of the light source in an exponential time function from before the time of sunrise to after the time of sunrise.

2. The lighting fixture according to claim 1, characterized in that the control unit increases the brightness of the light source according to the time of sunrise on the day in the area where the light source is installed.

3. The lighting fixture according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the control unit starts increasing the brightness of the light source unit before the time of sunrise.

4. The lighting fixture according to claim 1, characterized in that the control unit starts increasing the brightness of the light source unit from a dimming start time that is a predetermined amount of time before the sunrise time, and if the offset time is set, starts increasing the brightness of the light source unit at a time that is a predetermined amount of time before or after the dimming start time.

5. The lighting fixture according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the control unit controls the brightness of the light source to a constant level from a time before noon.

6. The lighting fixture according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the control unit changes the brightness of the light source according to the weather.

7. A lighting fixture according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that it is equipped with an alarm that emits an alarm sound at a predetermined time, regardless of the aforementioned sunrise time.

8. The lighting fixture according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the control unit reduces the brightness of the light source according to the time of sunset on the day in the predetermined region.

9. The aforementioned light source unit has multiple light sources with different color temperatures. The lighting fixture according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the control unit changes the color temperature of the light source according to the time of sunrise on the day in the predetermined region.

10. The lighting fixture according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the light source unit illuminates the room by mimicking the sky.

11. The aforementioned light source unit is First light source and A light-emitting section receives light from the first light source, guides the incident light by total internal reflection, and scatters it before emitting it from the light-emitting surface. A frame including at least a portion located in the direction of light emission from the light-emitting surface of the light-emitting part, The second light source and Equipped with, Light from the second light source enters the frame and exits from the surface of the frame. The lighting fixture according to claim 10, characterized in that the control unit starts emitting light from the second light source in accordance with the sunrise time.

12. A lighting fixture according to any one of claims 1 to 11, A user interface device that acquires the sunrise time and transmits it to the control unit, A lighting control system characterized by comprising the following features.

13. Lighting fixtures, A lighting control device that increases the brightness of the lighting fixture according to the sunrise time on the day in a predetermined area, Equipped with, The aforementioned lighting control device is The time at which the brightness of the lighting fixture begins to increase is changed according to an offset time set externally. A lighting control system characterized by increasing the brightness of the lighting fixture exponentially over time, from before sunrise to after sunrise.

Images