Lighting fixtures

Abstract

To improve wireless communication performance while reducing the possibility of causing troubles.SOLUTION: A luminaire A1 includes a light source unit 2, a luminaire body 1 installed on an installation surface S1 for holding the light source unit 2, and a communication unit 3 for performing wireless communication using electric waves as media, the communication unit 3 being arranged in a space K1 encircled by the luminaire body 1 and the light source unit 2 in the state that the light source unit 2 is held by the luminaire body 1, the luminaire body 1 being partially exposed to the installation surface S1 and having a passage part 13 through which the electric waves can pass.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a lighting fixture, and more particularly to a lighting fixture capable of wireless communication.

Background Art

[0002] As a conventional example, the lighting fixture described in Patent Document 1 is exemplified. The lighting fixture described in Patent Document 1 (hereinafter referred to as the conventional example) includes a light source unit and an instrument body having a housing recess for housing a part of the light source unit.

[0003] The light source unit includes a light source substrate, a wireless unit having an antenna, and a support body on which the wireless unit is arranged on the upper surface side. The support body is in the shape of a metal plate and is arranged so as to overlap the light source substrate on the lower surface side. An opening is provided in the support body, and the upper surface of the light source substrate is exposed from the opening.

[0004] In the conventional example, by making it possible to receive radio waves with the antenna of the wireless unit through the opening provided in the metal support body, the wireless communication performance is improved.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] However, when an opening is provided in the support body as in the conventional example, there is a possibility that foreign matters (such as insects and dust) may enter the lower surface side of the support body through the opening. When foreign matters enter the lower surface side of the support body, there is a risk of problems such as the shadow of the foreign matter being reflected on the cover that covers the light source substrate from below, resulting in a deterioration in the appearance.

[0007] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide a lighting fixture that can improve wireless communication performance while minimizing the possibility of malfunctions. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] A lighting fixture according to one aspect of this disclosure comprises a light source unit, a fixture body installed on a mounting surface and holding the light source unit, and a communication unit that performs wireless communication using radio waves as a medium. The communication unit is arranged in the space enclosed by the fixture body and the light source unit when the light source unit is held by the fixture body. The fixture body is partially exposed to the mounting surface and has a passage portion through which the radio waves can pass. and a main part facing the installation surface, and a projection that protrudes from the main part and contacts the installation surface It holds. At least a portion of the passage is provided in the main part. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] The lighting fixtures disclosed herein have the effect of improving wireless communication performance while suppressing the possibility of malfunctions. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a lighting fixture according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a perspective view of the same lighting fixture. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of the same lighting fixture, partially broken. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the same lighting fixture. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a front view of the fixture body of the same lighting fixture. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a perspective view of the same lighting fixture, with a portion of the fixture body omitted. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a front view of the same lighting fixture, with a portion of the fixture body omitted. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a front view of the same lighting fixture, with a portion of the fixture body omitted. [Figure 9]FIG. 9 is a circuit block diagram of a power supply device and a communication unit in the lighting fixture described above. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a plan view of a light source unit in the lighting fixture described above. [Figure 11] FIG. 11A is a perspective view of the communication unit in the lighting fixture described above as seen obliquely from above. FIG. 11B is a perspective view of the communication unit in the lighting fixture described above as seen obliquely from below. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view of the communication unit in the lighting fixture described above. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a plan view of the lighting fixture described above with the case cover of the communication unit omitted. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a partially omitted perspective view showing another configuration of the fixture body in the lighting fixture described above. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is an exploded perspective view of a modified example of the lighting fixture described above.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Hereinafter, the lighting fixture according to the embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, each figure described in the following embodiments is a schematic figure, and the respective ratios of the sizes and thicknesses of each component do not necessarily reflect the actual dimensional ratios. Note that the configurations described in the following embodiments are merely examples of the present disclosure. The present disclosure is not limited to the following embodiments, and various modifications can be made according to the design and the like as long as the effects of the present disclosure can be achieved.

[0012] (1) Overview The lighting fixture A1 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure includes a light source unit 2, a fixture body 1, and a communication unit 3 (see FIG. 1). The fixture body 1 is installed on an installation surface S1 such as a ceiling surface, a wall surface, or a floor surface to hold the light source unit 2 (FIG. 1 shows the case where the ceiling surface is the installation surface S1).

[0013] The communication unit 3 performs wireless communication using radio waves as a medium. Further, the communication unit 3 is disposed in a space K1 surrounded by the appliance main body 1 and the light source unit 2 in a state where the light source unit 2 is held by the appliance main body 1.

[0014] The appliance main body 1 has a passage portion 13 through which radio waves can pass. The radio waves are radio waves that serve as a communication medium for the communication unit 3. Further, the passage portion 13 is partially exposed with respect to the installation surface S1. For example, when the appliance main body 1 has a side portion 11 that protrudes in a direction away from the installation surface S1, the passage portion 13 is provided in the side portion 11, so that the passage portion 13 is partially exposed with respect to the installation surface S1. Then, the radio waves emitted from the communication unit 3 pass through the passage portion 13 and are emitted outside the appliance main body 1. Also, the radio waves emitted from an external device pass through the passage portion 13 and are received by the communication unit 3.

[0015] Thus, unlike the conventional example, the lighting fixture A1 according to the embodiment has the passage portion 13 in the appliance main body 1 that holds the light source unit 2. Therefore, the lighting fixture A1 according to the embodiment can improve the wireless communication performance while suppressing the possibility of problems such as the intrusion of foreign matter into the light source unit 2.

[0016] (2) Details The lighting fixture A1 according to the embodiment (hereinafter abbreviated as the lighting fixture A1) includes a light source unit 2, an appliance main body 1, a communication unit 3, and a power supply unit 4, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3.

[0017] The lighting fixture A1 is, for example, directly attached to the ceiling of an office in an office building. However, the place where the lighting fixture A1 is installed is not limited to the ceiling of the office, and may be a wall surface or a floor surface of a living room other than the office and the office. In the following description, unless otherwise specified, the up-down, front-back, and left-right directions indicated by arrows in FIG. 3 are defined as the up-down, front-back, and left-right directions of the lighting fixture A1.

[0018] (2-1) Appliance main body The device body 1 has a main part 10 formed in the shape of a long rectangle, a pair of side parts 11 that protrude upward from both ends (front and rear) along the longitudinal direction (left and right direction) of the main part 10, and a passage part 13 through which radio waves can pass (see Figures 3-6). Each of the pair of side parts 11 is formed in the shape of a long rectangle. The main part 10 and the pair of side parts 11 are formed as a single unit and in a trough shape by bending a long metal plate.

[0019] The main section 10 has two power supply holes 111, two mounting holes 112, and two hooking holes 113 (see Figures 3 and 5). All three types of holes (power supply holes 111, mounting holes 112, and hooking holes 113) penetrate the main section 10 in the thickness direction (vertical direction). The surrounding portions of the two mounting holes 112 in the main section 10 are formed in the shape of a frustoconical cone, each projecting upward from the upper surface of the main section 10.

[0020] Furthermore, multiple protrusions 110 are provided on the upper surface of the main part 10, spaced apart along the longitudinal direction of the main part 10 (see Figure 4). Each of these multiple protrusions 110 is formed in a hemispherical shape and protrudes upward. When the device body 1 is attached to the installation surface S1, these multiple protrusions 110 contact the installation surface S1 with their tips, thereby forming a gap G1 between the installation surface S1 and the main part 10 (see Figure 4).

[0021] Power supply holes 111 are provided at both ends of the main unit 10 in the longitudinal direction (left-right direction) (see Figures 3 and 5). Each power supply hole 111 is circular. A bushing is fitted into each power supply hole 111. The bushing is formed in a cylindrical shape from a synthetic resin material. For example, a power cable C1 supplied from an external power source P1 such as a commercial power grid (see Figure 9) or another lighting fixture is inserted through the power supply hole 111 at the left end. On the other hand, a power cable C2 for supplying power to another lighting fixture is inserted through the power supply hole 111 at the right end. In the following description, power cable C1 may be referred to as the first power supply cable C1, and power cable C2 may be referred to as the second power supply cable C2.

[0022] Here, on the lower surface of the main unit 10, one first terminal block 14A and one second terminal block 14B are attached to each end, closer to the center in the longitudinal direction than the power supply hole 111 (see Figure 5). However, the first terminal block 14A and the second terminal block 14B are terminal blocks of the same structure.

[0023] The first power cable C1 is electrically connected to the primary terminal of the first terminal block 14A (see Figure 7), and the second power cable C2 is electrically connected to the primary terminal of the second terminal block 14B (see Figure 8).

[0024] The wire 15A connected to the positive terminal of the secondary terminal of the first terminal block 14A, the wire 15B connected to the secondary terminal of the second terminal block 14B, and the wire 15C connected to the plug connector 150 are connected by a closed-end connector 151A (see Figures 7 and 8).

[0025] The wire 15D connected to the negative terminal of the secondary terminal of the first terminal block 14A, the wire 15E connected to the negative terminal of the secondary terminal of the second terminal block 14B, and the wire 15F connected to the plug connector 150 are connected by a closed-end connector 151B (see Figures 7 and 8). The two wires 15B and 15E connected to the second terminal block 14B are inserted into an insulating tube 154 (see Figures 7 and 8). In Figure 7, the two closed-end connectors 151A and 151B are shown protruding from the fixture body 1, but in reality they are housed between the pair of side parts 11 of the fixture body 1 (space K1).

[0026] The grounding wire 15G, connected to the plug connector 150, is connected to the main unit 10 via a crimp terminal 153. The two electric wires 15C and 15F connected to the plug connector 150 and the grounding wire 15G are inserted into an insulating tube 152 (see Figure 7).

[0027] Two mounting holes 112 are provided, one to the right of the first terminal block 14A and one to the left of the second terminal block 14B on the main part 10 (see Figure 5). One suspension bolt B1 protruding from the mounting surface S1 is inserted through each of these two mounting holes 112 (see Figure 3). The fixture body 1 is then fixed to the mounting surface S1 by tightening nuts N1 onto the suspension bolts B1 inserted through the mounting holes 112.

[0028] The two hooking holes 113 are rounded holes located closer to the center than the two mounting holes 112 (see Figures 3 and 5). The ends of two strings (not shown) for temporarily suspending the light source unit 2 are inserted into and hooked into these two hooking holes 113.

[0029] The passage section 13 is composed of a slit (opening) that runs through the device body 1 in the thickness direction along the longitudinal direction of the device body 1 (see Figures 4 and 6). By composing the passage section 13 with a slit (opening), the work efficiency of forming the passage section 13 in the device body 1 can be improved.

[0030] In this embodiment, one through section 13 is formed spanning the front end of the main section 10 and the upper end of the front side section 11, and one spanning the rear end of the main section 10 and the upper end of the rear side section 11 (see Figures 4 and 6). The longitudinal dimension (length L1) of the through section 13 is preferably at least one-quarter of the wavelength of the radio waves used as the communication medium by the communication unit 3, and no more than two-thirds, with approximately half being the most desirable. The short-side dimension (width D1) of the through section 13 is preferably smaller (shorter) than the diameter of the electric wires (electric wires 15B, 15E) described later. For example, when the communication unit 3 uses 2.4GHz band radio waves as the communication medium, the wavelength is approximately 12cm, so the length L1 of the through section 13 is preferably 12cm ÷ 4 = 3cm or more and 6cm or less. The width D1 of the through section 13 is preferably a few millimeters. Note that the two passage sections 13 are not aligned in the longitudinal direction of the device body 1, with the rear passage section 13 positioned to the right of the front passage section 13 (see Figure 8). However, the positional relationship of the two passage sections 13 is not limited to the above positional relationship.

[0031] Incidentally, the passage portion 13 may be sealed with a sealing member 130 (see Figure 14). The sealing member 130 is preferably formed in the shape of a tape from a material that can transmit radio waves, such as a synthetic resin material such as polyethylene terephthalate resin. By sealing the passage portion 13 with a sealing member 130 made of a material that can transmit radio waves, it is possible to improve wireless communication performance through the passage portion 13 while preventing foreign matter from entering the space K1 through the passage portion 13.

[0032] (2-2) Mounting spring The fixture body 1 has two mounting springs 12. Each of the two mounting springs 12 is responsible for attaching the light source unit 2 to the fixture body 1. One mounting spring 12 is provided between the first terminal block 14A and the adjacent mounting hole 112 in the main part 10, and one between the second terminal block 14B and the adjacent mounting hole 112 (see Figures 3 and 5). Each mounting spring 12 is formed into a U-shape by bending a strip of metal. These two mounting springs 12 are fixed to the main part 10 by screws. Each mounting spring 12 is deformable (bendable) along the short side (front-back direction) of the fixture body 1.

[0033] (2-3) Light source unit The light source unit 2 comprises a light source module 20, a support member 21, a cover 22, a power supply unit 4, a communication unit 3, and a pair of end members 23 (see Figure 3).

[0034] (2-3-1) Light source module The light source module 20 includes two substrates 200, a plurality of light-emitting elements (LEDs 201) mounted on the surface (bottom surface) of each substrate 200, and one connecting member 24 provided on each substrate 200 (see Figure 3). Each substrate 200 is formed in a long rectangular shape. Conductors for connecting the plurality of LEDs 201 are formed on the surface of each substrate 200. The conductors of the two substrates 200 are connected via connectors mounted on the longitudinal ends of each substrate 200.

[0035] The multiple LEDs 201 include, for example, warm white LEDs for illumination and daylight white LEDs for illumination. The multiple LEDs 201 are arranged so that LEDs 201 of different light-emitting colors are arranged alternately in a single row along the longitudinal direction of the substrate 200. The multiple LEDs 201 may consist only of white LEDs of the same color for illumination, or they may include three or more white LEDs for illumination. Alternatively, the multiple LEDs 201 may include LEDs with light-emitting colors other than white, such as red, green, or blue.

[0036] The connecting members 24 are members that electrically connect the power supply unit 40 (described later) and the light source module 20, and one is provided at the right end of the right-side substrate 200 and one at the left end of the left-side substrate 200 (see Figure 3). Each connecting member 24 has a receptacle connector and a plug connector that are mounted on the substrate 200. The receptacle connector is electrically connected to a conductor formed on the lower surface of the substrate 200. The receptacle connector is also inserted through a through hole provided in each substrate 200 and protrudes upward from the upper surface of the substrate 200. Each plug connector is electrically connected to the power supply unit 40 via an output line. The light source module 20 (LED 201) is electrically connected to the power supply unit 40 by the electrical and mechanical connection of the plug connector to the receptacle connector.

[0037] (2-3-2) Power supply unit The power supply unit 4 comprises a power supply device 40 composed of printed circuits and a power supply case 41 that houses the power supply device 40 (see Figures 3 and 10).

[0038] Figure 9 shows the circuit configuration of the power supply unit 40. The power supply unit 40 includes a power conversion circuit 400, a first constant current circuit 401, a second constant current circuit 402, a control circuit 403, and the like.

[0039] The power conversion circuit 400 includes, for example, a rectifier circuit such as a diode bridge, a boost chopper circuit (power factor correction circuit), and the like. The power conversion circuit 400 converts AC power supplied from an external power supply P1 into DC power. The external power supply P1 is, for example, a commercial power grid that supplies AC voltage and AC current with an effective value of 100V or 200V. However, the power conversion circuit 400 may include a switching power supply circuit with a power factor correction function, such as a buck chopper circuit, a buck-boost chopper circuit, or a flyback converter, instead of a boost chopper circuit.

[0040] The first constant current circuit 401 and the second constant current circuit 402 include, for example, a step-down chopper circuit (buck converter). The first constant current circuit 401 steps down the DC voltage output from the power conversion circuit 400 and applies it to the warm white LED 201 of the light source module 20, and adjusts the DC current flowing through the warm white LED 201 of the light source module 20. The second constant current circuit 402 steps down the DC voltage output from the power conversion circuit 400 and applies it to the daylight-colored LED 201 of the light source module 20, and adjusts the DC current flowing through the daylight-colored LED 201 of the light source module 20. However, the first constant current circuit 401 and the second constant current circuit 402 may be equipped with various chopper circuits, series regulators, etc., instead of step-down chopper circuits.

[0041] The positive output terminal of the first constant current circuit 401 is connected to the right-side connector member 24 (plug connector) via output line L11, and the negative output terminal of the first constant current circuit 401 is connected to the left-side connector member 24 (plug connector) via output line L12. The positive output terminal of the second constant current circuit 402 is connected to the right-side connector member 24 (plug connector) via output line L21, and the negative output terminal of the second constant current circuit 402 is connected to the left-side connector member 24 (plug connector) via output line L22 (see Figure 10).

[0042] The control circuit 403 includes, for example, a microcontroller. The control circuit 403 controls the step-down chopper circuit of the first constant current circuit 401 so that the DC current supplied from the first constant current circuit 401 to the warm white LED 201 of the light source module 20 matches a target value. The control circuit 403 also controls the step-down chopper circuit of the second constant current circuit 402 so that the DC current supplied from the second constant current circuit 402 to the daylight-colored LED 201 of the light source module 20 matches a target value. The control circuit 403 individually changes the target values ​​of the DC current supplied to the warm white and daylight-colored LEDs 201 of the light source module 20 according to the control signals received from the communication unit 3, which will be described later.

[0043] The power supply case 41 is formed from a metal plate into a long, box-like shape with an open bottom. The power supply case 41 houses the printed circuit board that constitutes the power supply unit 40. A pair of wires 43 are drawn out from one end (left end) along the longitudinal direction of the power supply case 41. The pair of wires 43 are connected to a receptacle connector 44 (see Figure 10). The receptacle connector 44 is connected to a plug connector 150. In other words, the power supply unit 40 is electrically connected to an external power supply P1 via the plug connector 150, the receptacle connector 44, and the pair of wires 43. The open bottom surface of the power supply case 41 is covered with an insulating sheet that has electrical insulating properties.

[0044] Furthermore, multiple wire holders 411 are provided on the bottom 410 of the power supply case 41 (see Figure 10). These wire holders 411 are formed in an L-shape by cutting and bending from the bottom 410. These wire holders 411 are spaced apart along the longitudinal direction (left-right direction) of the power supply case 41. These wire holders 411 hold the negative output wire L12 of the first constant current circuit 401 and the negative output wire L22 of the second constant current circuit 402 (see Figure 10).

[0045] The power supply unit 4 is attached to the light source unit 2 by screwing the lower surface of the power supply case 41 to the upper surface of the support member 21 of the light source unit 2, with the lower surface of the power supply case 41 facing the support member 21 (see Figure 10). However, the method of fixing the power supply case 41 to the support member 21 is not limited to screwing; for example, any appropriate fixing method such as crimping can be used. Also, when attached to the support member 21, the opening (lower surface) of the power supply case 41 is closed by the support member 21.

[0046] (2-3-3) Support Member The support member 21 has a long, plate-shaped base plate 210 and a pair of side plates 211 that rise upward from a pair of side ends (front and rear ends) along the longitudinal direction (left-right direction) of the base plate 210 (see Figures 3 and 4). The pair of side plates 211 are formed in a long, rectangular shape.

[0047] Furthermore, the support member 21 has a positioning piece 212, a locking piece 213, a pair of cover mounting pieces 214, a pair of projections 215, and a pair of hooking parts 216 (see Figure 4).

[0048] The positioning piece 212 is formed in a prismatic shape that protrudes downward from the rear end of the lower surface of the base plate 210. The locking piece 213 is formed in an L-shape that protrudes downward from the front end of the lower surface of the base plate 210. The positioning piece 212 and the locking piece 213 are each formed along the entire length of the base plate 210 in the longitudinal direction, parallel to each other. The substrate 200 of the light source module 20 is inserted into the gap between the locking piece 213 and the base plate 210, and the substrate 200 is locked to the locking piece 213 (see Figure 4). The positioning piece 212 then positions the substrate 200 in the front-rear direction of the base plate 210. The substrate 200 is screwed to the base plate 210 by a plurality of screws 217.

[0049] Each of the pair of cover mounting pieces 214 is formed in an L-shape and protrudes downward from each side end along the longitudinal direction of the base plate 210. A pair of mounting portions 222 of the cover 22 are hooked onto each cover mounting piece 214, as will be described later.

[0050] Each pair of hooks 216 protrudes inward from approximately the center in the vertical direction along the entire length of each side plate 211 on the inner surface of the pair of side plates 211. However, the tip of each hook 216 is bent downward (see Figure 4). These pairs of hooks 216 hook onto the respective tips of the two mounting springs 12 attached to the fixture body 1.

[0051] Each pair of projections 215 protrudes inward from the lower end portion of the inner surface of each of the pair of side plates 211, along the entire length of each side plate 211 in the longitudinal direction. The bottom plate 210, the pair of side plates 211, the positioning piece 212, the locking piece 213, the pair of cover mounting pieces 214, the pair of projections 215, and the pair of hooks 216 are integrally formed by extrusion molding of a metal material such as an aluminum alloy.

[0052] Furthermore, the bottom plate 210 of the support member 21 is provided with through holes at positions facing the connecting members 24 of each substrate 200 in the vertical direction. The connecting members 24 protrude upward from the bottom plate 210 through the through holes in the bottom plate 210. The support member 21 also has a protective cover 25 that covers the top of the through holes to protect the connecting members 24 (see Figure 10). The protective cover 25 prevents unnecessary external force from being applied to the connecting members 24 and the wires (output wires) connected to the connecting members 24, which could cause malfunctions in the connecting members 24 and the wires.

[0053] (2-3-4) Cover The cover 22 has a front wall 220, a pair of side walls 221, and a pair of mounting parts 222 (see Figures 3 and 4). The front wall 220 is formed in a long rectangular shape. The pair of side walls 221 are each formed in a long rectangular shape and protrude upward from both ends (front and rear) along the longitudinal direction of the front wall 220. The pair of mounting parts 222 are each formed in a long U-shape and protrude inward from the upper end of each side wall 221 along the entire length of the side wall 221 in the longitudinal direction. Here, it is preferable that the front wall 220, the pair of side walls 221, and the pair of mounting parts 222 are integrally formed by extrusion molding of a translucent synthetic resin such as polycarbonate resin or acrylic resin. Furthermore, it is preferable that the cover 22 is formed in a milky white color by mixing a filler into the synthetic resin material in order to diffuse the light emitted from the light source module 20.

[0054] The cover 22 is attached to the support member 21 by hooking one of the pair of mounting parts 222 onto each of the pair of cover mounting pieces 214 of the support member 21 (see Figure 4). The cover 22 attached to the support member 21 covers the light source module 20 which is mounted on the lower surface of the bottom plate 210.

[0055] (2-3-5) End members The end member 23 includes a cover end portion 230 that closes the longitudinal end of the cover 22, an end cap portion 231 that closes the longitudinal end of the support member 21, and a mounting fixture 232 for attaching the end member 23 to the support member 21 (see Figure 3).

[0056] The end members 23 are attached to the support member 21 by screwing the mounting fixture 232 to the support member 21. With the two end members 23 each attached to the support member 21, the openings at both ends in the longitudinal direction of the cover 22 and the openings at both ends in the longitudinal direction of the support member 21 are closed (see Figure 2).

[0057] (2-3-6) Communication Unit The communication unit 3 includes a wireless circuit section 30, an antenna section 31, a circuit board 32 on which the wireless circuit section 30 and the antenna section 31 are formed, and a case 33 that houses the circuit board 32 (see Figures 4 and 9-13).

[0058] The circuit board 32 consists of a printed circuit board with wiring conductors printed on a rectangular insulating substrate (see Figure 12). In other words, the wireless circuit section 30 is composed of a printed circuit including a wireless communication module IC 300 with a built-in microcontroller (see Figures 9 and 12). Note that the shape of the circuit board 32 is not limited to a rectangle, but includes various shapes such as polygons other than rectangles, circles, etc.

[0059] The antenna section 31 is configured to emit electromagnetic waves (for example, radio waves in the 920 MHz band or 2.4 GHz band) into space and to receive electromagnetic waves from space. The antenna section 31 is a so-called pattern antenna, for example, formed from a conductor printed on the circuit board 32 (see Figure 12). The antenna section 31 is formed in an S-shape at one end (lower part) of the surface of the circuit board 32. However, the antenna section 31 is not limited to a pattern antenna, and may also be a patch antenna (microstrip antenna), chip antenna, rod antenna, film antenna, etc.

[0060] The wireless circuit unit 30 extracts a wireless signal from the radio waves received by the antenna unit 31 and obtains control information (control commands) from the wireless signal. Furthermore, the wireless circuit unit 30 converts the control information into a dimming signal and transmits the converted dimming signal to the control circuit 403 of the power supply unit 40. The wireless circuit unit 30 is capable of not only receiving wireless signals but also transmitting them. For example, the wireless circuit unit 30 performs wireless communication compliant with the BLE (Bluetooth® low energy) communication standard. The wireless circuit unit 30 can also receive wireless signals transmitted from a communication unit 3 mounted on another lighting fixture A1 and transmit (relay) the received wireless signal, including the control information contained in the wireless signal, to a communication unit 3 mounted on yet another lighting fixture A1.

[0061] A connector 34 is mounted on the circuit board 32 (see Figure 12). The connector 34 is connected to a pair of power supply lines 341 for supplying power from the power supply unit 40 to the wireless circuit unit 30 and a pair of signal lines 342 for transmitting dimming signals (see Figure 13).

[0062] The power supply unit 40 controls the light source module 20 by changing the target value of the DC current supplied from the control circuit 403 to the light source module 20 in response to a dimming signal received from the communication unit 3 via the signal line 342, thereby causing the light source module 20 to blink (switch on and off), dim, and change color.

[0063] Case 33 has a case body 33A and a case cover 33B (see Figures 11-13). In the following description, unless otherwise specified, the up / down, left / right, and front / back directions indicated by arrows in Figure 11A are defined as the up / down, left / right, and front / back directions of Case 33 (communication unit 3).

[0064] The case body 33A is made of a box-shaped synthetic resin molded body with one side (bottom) open (see Figures 12 and 13). A mounting portion 330 protrudes from the upper end of the left side of the case body 33A. The mounting portion 330 is formed in the shape of a rectangular box with an open top (see Figure 11). There is one round hole 331 at each end of the bottom surface (bottom) of the mounting portion 330 in the longitudinal direction (front-to-back direction).

[0065] Furthermore, the case body 33A has one recess 332 on its front and one on its rear surface, with the lower end open. A projection 333 is provided on the upper part of the bottom surface of each recess 332. The projection 333 is formed in the shape of a triangular prism, inclined upwards from the bottom surface of the recess 332.

[0066] Furthermore, support portions 334 are provided on the inner surfaces of both the left and right sides of the case body 33A to clamp and support both ends of the circuit board 32 (see Figure 12). The support portions 334 have grooves with the vertical direction as their longitudinal direction, and the ends of the circuit board 32 are inserted into the grooves to support the circuit board 32 in an upright position (see Figure 13).

[0067] The case body 33A is constructed as a synthetic resin molded body made of a synthetic resin material such as polycarbonate resin. However, the case body 33A may be formed from a material other than synthetic resin, including metal, or from a hybrid material of metal and synthetic resin.

[0068] The case cover 33B has a flat cover body 335 and a pair of assembly legs 336 (see Figure 12). However, the cover body 335 and the pair of assembly legs 336 are integrally formed as a molded body of synthetic resin. The pair of assembly legs 336 are formed in an inverted U shape and protrude upward from the front and rear ends of the cover body 335, respectively (see Figure 12).

[0069] The case cover 33B is attached to the underside of the case body 33A, which houses the circuit board 32. Specifically, the two assembly legs 336 of the case cover 33B are inserted from below into a pair of recesses 332 on the case body 33A, and the upper end of each assembly leg 336 bends outward while riding on the inclined surface of each projection 333. Once the upper part of each assembly leg 336 has passed over each projection 333, the assembly leg 336 catches on each projection 333, thereby fixing the case cover 33B to the case body 33A (see Figure 11).

[0070] Here, a wire insertion hole 337 is provided on the left side of the case 33 (see Figures 11B and 13). The wire insertion hole 337 is through which the power supply line 341 and signal line 342, which are electrically connected to the connector 34 of the circuit board 32, are inserted.

[0071] (2-3-7) Installation process of the power supply unit and communication unit to the support member Next, the process of attaching the power supply unit 4 and the communication unit 3 to the support member 21 will be explained.

[0072] First, the case 33 of the communication unit 3 is attached to the right end of the power supply case 41 of the power supply unit 4. Specifically, the mounting portion 330 of the case 33 is placed on the upper surface of the right end of the power supply case 41, and screws, one in each of the two round holes 331 of the mounting portion 330, are screwed into the screw holes of the power supply case 41. In other words, the case 33 is attached to the power supply case 41 by screwing the mounting portion 330 to the power supply case 41. However, it is preferable that the communication unit 3 and the power supply unit 4 are electrically connected by a connector 34 mounted on the circuit board 32 before the communication unit 3 is attached to the power supply unit 4.

[0073] Next, the power supply unit 4 is attached to the support member 21 by screwing the power supply case 41 to the bottom plate 210 at the center of the upper surface of the bottom plate 210 of the support member 21. At this time, the open side (bottom surface) of the power supply case 41 is closed off by the bottom plate 210.

[0074] The power supply unit 4 and the communication unit 3 are attached to the support member 21 using the above procedure. However, the communication unit 3 may be attached to the power supply unit 4 after the power supply unit 4 has been attached to the support member 21.

[0075] (2-3-8) Installation procedure for lighting fixtures Next, we will explain the procedure for installing lighting fixture A1 on the ceiling (installation surface S1).

[0076] The worker performing the installation inserts the first power cable C1 and the second power cable C2, which are pulled out from the ceiling (installation surface S1) into the room, one by one into the two power holes 111 of the fixture body 1. Then, the worker inserts the two suspension bolts B1 protruding from the ceiling (installation surface S1) into the two mounting holes 112 of the fixture body 1, one by one, and tightens nuts N1 onto each suspension bolt B1 to attach the fixture body 1 to the ceiling (installation surface S1). After that, the worker connects the first power cable C1 to the primary terminal of the first terminal block 14A, and connects the second power cable C2 to the primary terminal of the second terminal block 14B.

[0077] Next, the worker temporarily suspends the light source unit 2 from the fixture body 1 by hooking the ends of the two strings provided on the light source unit 2 into the two hook holes 113 on the fixture body 1, one string at a time. In this state, the worker connects the receptacle connector 44 of the power supply unit 4 to the plug connector 150 of the fixture body 1.

[0078] The worker then supports the temporarily suspended light source unit 2 with both hands and brings it close to the fixture body 1, inserting the mounting spring 12 of the fixture body 1 between the pair of side plates 211 of the support member 21. The tip of the mounting spring 12 inserted between the pair of side plates 211 then hooks onto the hook portion 216 on the inner surface of each side plate 211 (see Figure 4). As a result, the light source unit 2 is attached to the fixture body 1 by the two mounting springs 12. If the worker pulls the light source unit 2 downwards, the tip of the mounting spring 12 will detach from the hook portion 216, and the light source unit 2 can be removed from the fixture body 1.

[0079] The installation of lighting fixture A1 is completed following the steps above.

[0080] (2-4) Characteristics of the Embodiment Lighting fixture A1 has the following characteristics:

[0081] Lighting fixture A1 houses the communication unit 3 in a space K1 surrounded by a metal fixture body 1 and support member 21. In other words, because the inside and outside of space K1 are separated by a conductor (metal), there is a risk that the radio wave reception sensitivity of the antenna part 31 of the communication unit 3 will be greatly reduced.

[0082] However, the lighting fixture A1 has a passage section 13 on the fixture body 1 that is partially exposed to the installation surface S1 and through which radio waves can pass. Therefore, the lighting fixture A1 can receive radio waves coming from outside the lighting fixture A1 through the passage section 13 of the fixture body 1 to the antenna section 31. In addition, the lighting fixture A1 can improve the sensitivity of the antenna section 31 by positioning the communication unit 3 so that the antenna section 31 does not protrude from the area where the two passage sections 13 are provided in the longitudinal direction (left and right direction) of the lighting fixture A1. Moreover, the space K1 in which the communication unit 3 is housed is separated from the space in which the light source module 20 is housed (the space surrounded by the support member 21 and the cover 22) by the support member 21. As a result, the lighting fixture A1 can prevent foreign objects from entering the light source unit 2 through the passage section 13 of the fixture body 1, while improving the wireless communication performance of the communication unit 3 through the passage section 13.

[0083] Furthermore, the lighting fixture A1 has at least a portion of the passage section 13 located on the side section 11 of the fixture body 1 (see Figure 4). Since the side section 11 of the fixture body 1 is hidden by the side plate 211 of the support member 21 of the light source unit 2, the lighting fixture A1 is not easily visible to the eye when installed on the installation surface S1. Therefore, the lighting fixture A1 can improve the wireless communication performance of the communication unit 3 without compromising its appearance.

[0084] Furthermore, lighting fixture A1 has at least a portion of the passage section 13 provided on the main section 10 of the fixture body 1 (see Figures 4 and 6). Since the main section 10 of the fixture body 1 faces the installation surface S1, it is not easily visible to people when lighting fixture A1 is installed on the installation surface S1. Therefore, lighting fixture A1 can improve the wireless communication performance of the communication unit 3 without compromising its appearance. In addition, lighting fixture A1 has multiple protrusions 110 on the main section 10 of the fixture body 1, and when the fixture body 1 is attached to the installation surface S1, the tips of each protrusion 110 come into contact with the installation surface S1, thereby forming a gap G1 between the installation surface S1 and the main section 10 (see Figure 4). In other words, lighting fixture A1 can further improve the wireless communication performance of the communication unit 3 by allowing radio waves to pass through the passage section 13 from the gap G1 formed between the installation surface S1 and the main section 10.

[0085] Here, lighting fixture A1 may have at least a portion of the through-section 13 on both the main section 10 and the side section 11 of the fixture body 1. By providing at least a portion of the through-section 13 on both the main section 10 and the side section 11 of lighting fixture A1, the wireless communication performance of the communication unit 3 can be further improved. Note that lighting fixture A1 may also have the through-section 13 spanning both the main section 10 and the side section 11 (see Figures 4 and 6). By providing the through-section 13 spanning both the main section 10 and the side section 11 of lighting fixture A1, the wireless communication performance of the communication unit 3 can be further improved without compromising the appearance.

[0086] Here, the main part 10 of the fixture body 1 is formed in the shape of a long plate. The light source unit 2 is held in the fixture body 1 so as to cover the main part 10 (see Figures 3 and 4). In other words, in the lighting fixture A1, the fixture body 1 and the light source unit 2 are both formed in the shape of a long plate, and the fixture body 1 (main part 10) installed on the installation surface S1 is covered and concealed by the light source unit 2, so the fixture body 1 can be hidden so as not to stand out, thereby improving the appearance.

[0087] Furthermore, lighting fixture A1 has a gap G2 between the power supply case 41 and the passage section 13 (see Figure 4). In other words, lighting fixture A1 is designed so that the passage section 13 is not blocked by the metal power supply case 41. In this way, lighting fixture A1 can further improve the wireless communication performance of the communication unit 3 by providing a gap G2 between the power supply case 41 and the passage section 13.

[0088] Furthermore, lighting fixture A1 arranges the wires 15B and 15E, which electrically connect the power supply unit 40 and the second terminal block 14B, so as not to block the passage 13 (see Figure 8). Therefore, lighting fixture A1 can utilize the empty space in space K1 as space for wiring (wires 15B and 15E) while avoiding the reduction of the wireless communication performance of the communication unit 3 due to the conductors of wires 15B and 15E.

[0089] Furthermore, the lighting fixture A1 adjusts the power supply from the power supply unit 40 to the light source module 20 in accordance with the control commands included in the wireless signal received by the communication unit 3, thus enabling remote control of the power supply unit 40.

[0090] (3) Modified example of a lighting fixture according to the embodiment Next, a modified example of the lighting fixture A1 according to the embodiment will be described. However, the basic configuration of the modified lighting fixture A1 described below is the same as the basic configuration of the lighting fixture A1 according to the embodiment. Therefore, components that are common to or substantially common with the basic configuration of the lighting fixture A1 according to the embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and their illustration and description will be omitted as appropriate. In the following description, "substantially common components" means components that differ slightly in shape, size, etc., but have the same function.

[0091] The modified lighting fixture A1 is characterized by having its overall length (length in the longitudinal direction) reduced to approximately three-quarters of that of the lighting fixture A1 of the embodiment (see Figure 15).

[0092] Specifically, the overall lengths of the fixture body 1, support member 21, and cover 22 have each been shortened to approximately three-quarters of their original length. In addition, the length of one of the two substrates 200 of the light source module 20 (the one on the right in Figure 15) has been reduced to half the length of the other substrate 200 (the one on the left in Figure 15). Note that the modified lighting fixture A1 has only one terminal block 14 due to the shortening of the overall length of the fixture body 1.

[0093] The modified lighting fixture A1 has a shorter overall length, which allows for greater flexibility in its installation location.

[0094] (4) Summary A lighting fixture (A1) according to a first aspect of this disclosure comprises a light source unit (2), a fixture body (1) installed on an installation surface (S1) and holding the light source unit (2), and a communication unit (3) that performs wireless communication using radio waves as a medium. The communication unit (3) is arranged in a space (K1) enclosed by the fixture body (1) and the light source unit (2) when the light source unit (2) is held by the fixture body (1). The fixture body (1) is partially exposed to the installation surface (S1) and has a passage portion (13) through which radio waves can pass.

[0095] Unlike conventional examples, the lighting fixture (A1) according to the first embodiment has a fixture body (1) that holds the light source unit (2) and has a pass-through section (13). Therefore, the lighting fixture (A1) according to the first embodiment can improve wireless communication performance while suppressing the possibility of malfunctions such as foreign matter entering the light source unit (2).

[0096] A lighting fixture (A1) according to a second aspect of this disclosure can be realized by combining it with the first aspect. In the lighting fixture (A1) according to the second aspect, the fixture body (1) preferably has a main part (10) facing the installation surface (S1) and a side part (11) protruding from the end of the main part (10) in a direction away from the installation surface (S1). It is preferable that at least a part of the through part (13) is provided on the side part (11).

[0097] The lighting fixture (A1) according to the second embodiment can improve wireless communication performance without compromising the appearance.

[0098] A lighting fixture (A1) according to a third aspect of this disclosure can be realized by combining it with the first aspect. In the lighting fixture (A1) according to the third aspect, the fixture body (1) preferably has a main part (10) facing the installation surface (S1) and a projection (110) that protrudes from the main part (10) and contacts the installation surface (S1). It is preferable that at least a part of the through part (13) is provided on the main part (10).

[0099] The lighting fixture (A1) according to the third embodiment can improve wireless communication performance without compromising the appearance.

[0100] A lighting fixture (A1) according to a fourth aspect of this disclosure can be realized in combination with a third aspect. In the lighting fixture (A1) according to the fourth aspect, the fixture body (1) preferably further has a side portion (11) that protrudes from the end of the main portion (10) away from the installation surface (S1). It is preferable that at least a part of the through portion (13) is provided on the side portion (11).

[0101] The lighting fixture (A1) according to the fourth embodiment can achieve further improvement in wireless communication performance by providing at least a portion of the through portion (13) on the main portion (10) and the side portion (11).

[0102] A lighting fixture (A1) according to a fifth aspect of this disclosure can be realized by combining it with a fourth aspect. In the lighting fixture (A1) according to the fifth aspect, the through portion (13) is preferably provided spanning the main portion (10) and the side portion (11).

[0103] The lighting fixture (A1) according to the fifth embodiment can further improve wireless communication performance without compromising the appearance.

[0104] A lighting fixture (A1) according to the sixth aspect of this disclosure can be realized by combining it with any of the second to fifth aspects. In the lighting fixture (A1) according to the sixth aspect, the main part (10) is preferably formed in the shape of a long plate. The light source unit (2) is preferably held in the fixture body (1) so as to cover the main part (10).

[0105] In the sixth embodiment of the lighting fixture (A1), the fixture body (1) and the light source unit (2) are each formed in an elongated shape, and the main part (10) of the fixture body (1) installed on the installation surface (S1) is covered and concealed by the light source unit (2). As a result, the lighting fixture (A1) in the sixth embodiment can improve the appearance by concealing the main part (10) so that it is not conspicuous.

[0106] A lighting fixture (A1) according to the seventh aspect of this disclosure can be realized in combination with any of the first to sixth aspects. In the lighting fixture (A1) according to the seventh aspect, the through portion (13) is preferably an opening that penetrates the fixture body (1).

[0107] The lighting fixture (A1) according to the seventh embodiment improves the workability of forming the passage portion (13) in the fixture body (1) by configuring the passage portion (13) as an opening.

[0108] A lighting fixture (A1) according to the eighth aspect of this disclosure can be realized by combining it with the seventh aspect. Preferably, the lighting fixture (A1) according to the eighth aspect further comprises a sealing member (130) formed of a radio wave-transmitting material that closes the opening.

[0109] The lighting fixture (A1) according to the eighth embodiment can prevent foreign matter from entering the space (K1) through the passage portion (13) by sealing the passage portion (13) with a sealing member (130), thereby improving wireless communication performance through the passage portion (13).

[0110] A lighting fixture (A1) according to the ninth aspect of this disclosure can be realized in combination with any of the first to eighth aspects. The lighting fixture (A1) according to the ninth aspect preferably further comprises a power supply device (40) that supplies power for lighting to a light source unit (2), and electric wires (15B, 15E) electrically connected to the power supply device (40). The electric wires (15B, 15E) are preferably arranged so as not to block the passage (13).

[0111] The lighting fixture (A1) according to the ninth embodiment can utilize the empty space in the space (K1) as space for passing the electric wires (15B, 15E) while avoiding the reduction of wireless communication performance due to the conductors of the electric wires (15B, 15E).

[0112] A lighting fixture (A1) according to the tenth aspect of this disclosure can be realized in combination with any of the first to ninth aspects. In the lighting fixture (A1) according to the tenth aspect, it is preferable to further include a power supply case (41) housing a power supply device (40). It is preferable that a gap (G2) is provided between the power supply case (41) and the passage section (13).

[0113] The lighting fixture (A1) according to the tenth embodiment can achieve further improvement in wireless communication performance by providing a gap (G2) between the power supply case (41) and the passage section (13).

[0114] A lighting fixture (A1) according to the eleventh aspect of this disclosure can be realized in combination with the ninth aspect. In the lighting fixture (A1) according to the eleventh aspect, it is preferable that the communication unit (3) controls the power supply unit (40) based on control commands obtained by wireless communication.

[0115] The lighting fixture (A1) according to the 11th embodiment can remotely control the power supply unit (40) based on control commands acquired by the communication unit (3) via wireless communication. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0116] A1 Lighting fixtures 1. Main body of the device 2 Light source units 3. Communication Unit 10 Main body 11 Side 13 Passage section 15B, 15E wire 40 Power supply 41 Power Supply Cases 130 Sealing member S1 installation surface K1 space G2 Gap

Claims

1. Light source unit, A fixture body installed on the mounting surface and holding the light source unit, A communication unit that performs wireless communication using radio waves as a medium, Equipped with, The communication unit is positioned in the space enclosed by the fixture body and the light source unit when the light source unit is held in the fixture body. The device body is partially exposed to the mounting surface and has a passage portion through which the radio waves can pass, a main portion facing the mounting surface, and a projection that protrudes from the main portion and contacts the mounting surface. At least a portion of the passing portion is provided in the main portion. Lighting fixtures.

2. The device body further has a side portion that protrudes from the end of the main portion in a direction away from the installation surface, At least a portion of the passing portion is provided on the side. The lighting fixture according to claim 1.

3. The passing portion is provided spanning the main portion and the side portion, The lighting fixture according to claim 2.

4. The main part is formed in the shape of a long plate, The light source unit is held in the fixture body so as to cover the main part. A lighting fixture according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The passage portion is an opening that penetrates the main body of the device. A lighting fixture according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

6. The sealing member is made of a material through which the radio waves can pass and closes the opening, The lighting fixture according to claim 5.

7. The light source unit further comprises a power supply device that supplies power for lighting, and an electric wire electrically connected to the power supply device, The electric wire is arranged so as not to block the passage. A lighting fixture according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

8. Further comprising a power supply case for housing the power supply device, A gap is provided between the power supply case and the passage section. The lighting fixture according to claim 7.

9. The communication unit controls the power supply device based on control commands obtained by wireless communication. The lighting fixture according to claim 7.

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