Illumination device control device and illumination system

Abstract

Provided are an illumination device control device with which it is possible to intuitively set the diffusibility of light in two directions, and an illumination system. The illumination device control device is capable of controlling the diffusibility of light in a first direction and a second direction. An optical diffusibility setting screen for performing an optical diffusibility setting process for the illumination device is displayed in a display region (DA). The display region (DA) overlaps a touch sensor detection region (FA). In the optical diffusibility setting screen, an XY plane is defined in which the X-direction corresponds to the first direction and the Y-direction corresponds to the second direction, with a predetermined position in the optical diffusibility setting screen being located at the origin (O). The optical diffusibility setting screen is provided with: an optical-distribution shape object (OBJ) that has a central point at the origin (O) of the XY plane; a first slider (first optical diffusibility setting object S1) that has a central point at the position (x0) of an intersection point of the X-axis of the XY plane and the outline of the optical-distribution shape object (OBJ); and a second slider (second optical diffusibility setting object S2) that has a central point at the position (y0) of an intersection point of the Y-axis of the XY plane and the outline of the optical-distribution shape object (OBJ).

Description

Lighting device control device and lighting system

[0001] The present invention relates to a lighting device control device and a lighting system.

[0002] Conventionally, there are lighting fixtures that combine a light source such as an LED with a thin lens engraved with a prism pattern, and change the light distribution angle by changing the distance between the light source and the thin lens. For example, a lighting fixture has been disclosed in which the front of a transparent light bulb is covered with a liquid crystal dimming element, and the transmittance of the liquid crystal layer is changed to switch between direct light and scattered light (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2-65001

[0004] For example, in a lighting device using a liquid crystal cell for p-wave polarization and a liquid crystal cell for s-wave polarization, the degree of diffusion of light in two directions can be controlled by driving both liquid crystal cells separately. In such a lighting device that can control the degree of diffusion of light in two directions, a control device that allows intuitive setting of the degree of diffusion of light in two directions is desired.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a lighting device control device and a lighting system that can intuitively set the degree of diffusion of light in two directions.

[0006] A control device for a lighting device according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a control device for a lighting device that can control the light distribution state of light emitted from a light source in two directions, a first direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction, and includes: a touch sensor having a detection area in which a plurality of detection elements are provided; and a display panel having a display area that overlaps the detection area of ​​the touch sensor in a planar view. A light diffusion setting screen for executing a light diffusion setting process for the lighting device is displayed in the display area of ​​the display panel. The light diffusion setting screen defines an X direction corresponding to the first direction, a Y direction corresponding to the second direction, and an XY plane whose origin is a predetermined position on the light diffusion setting screen. The light distribution shape object has a center point on the origin of the XY plane, a first light diffusion setting object whose center point is the intersection point of an X axis of the XY plane and a contour line of the light distribution shape object, and a second light diffusion setting object whose center point is the intersection point of a Y axis of the XY plane and a contour line of the light distribution shape object.

[0007] An illumination system according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a light source, an illumination device including an optical element disposed on an optical axis of the light source and capable of controlling a light distribution state of light emitted from the light source in two directions, a first direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction, and a control device that controls the illumination device to change the light distribution state, the control device including a touch sensor having a detection area in which a plurality of detection elements are disposed, and a display panel having a display area that overlaps the detection area of ​​the touch sensor in a planar view, and a light diffusion degree setting process for the illumination device, the light diffusion degree setting process for the illumination device being configured to change the light distribution state of the illumination device. A light diffusion setting screen for executing the setting is displayed, and the light diffusion setting screen defines an X direction corresponding to the first direction, a Y direction corresponding to the second direction, and an XY plane whose origin is a predetermined position on the light diffusion setting screen.The light diffusion setting screen is provided with a light distribution shape object whose center point is the origin of the XY plane, a first light diffusion setting object whose center point is the intersection of the X axis of the XY plane and the outline of the light distribution shape object, and a second light diffusion setting object whose center point is the intersection of the Y axis of the XY plane and the outline of the light distribution shape object.

[0008] FIG. 1A is a side view showing an example of an illumination device according to an embodiment. FIG. 1B is a perspective view showing an example of an optical element according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic plan view of a first substrate as viewed from the Dz direction. FIG. 3 is a schematic plan view of a second substrate as viewed from the Dz direction. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a liquid crystal cell in which a first substrate and a second substrate are stacked in the Dz direction. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line AA′ shown in FIG. 4. FIG. 6A is a diagram showing the alignment direction of an alignment film on a first substrate. FIG. 6B is a diagram showing the alignment direction of an alignment film on a second substrate. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the layered structure of an optical element according to an embodiment. FIG. 8A is a conceptual diagram illustrating a change in the shape of light caused by an optical element according to an embodiment. FIG. 8B is a conceptual diagram illustrating a change in the shape of light caused by an optical element according to an embodiment. FIG. 8C is a conceptual diagram illustrating a change in the shape of light caused by an optical element according to an embodiment. FIG. 8D is a conceptual diagram illustrating a change in the shape of light caused by an optical element according to an embodiment. FIG. 9 is a conceptual diagram conceptually illustrating control of the degree of light diffusion by an illumination device according to an embodiment. FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of an illumination system according to an embodiment. FIG. 11 is an external view showing an example of a control device according to an embodiment. FIG. 12 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of a touch detection area of ​​a touch sensor. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a control block configuration of a control device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a control block configuration of a lighting device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 15A is a conceptual diagram showing an example of a display mode of a light diffusion degree setting screen of the control device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 15B is a conceptual diagram showing an example of a display mode of a light diffusion degree setting screen of the control device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 15C is a conceptual diagram showing an example of a display mode of a light diffusion degree setting screen of the control device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 15D is a conceptual diagram showing an example of a display mode of a light diffusion degree setting screen of the control device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 16 is a diagram explaining the relationship between a position on the light diffusion degree setting screen of the control device according to the first embodiment and light diffusion degree. FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing an example of initial setting of a light diffusion degree setting screen in the control device of the lighting device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing an example of a light diffusion degree setting process in the control device of the lighting device according to the first embodiment.Fig. 19 is a flowchart showing an example of a light diffusion degree setting process in a control device of an illumination device according to a modified example of embodiment 1. Fig. 20 is a diagram showing an example of a control block configuration of a control device according to embodiment 2. Fig. 21A is a conceptual diagram showing an example of a display mode of a light diffusion degree setting screen of the control device according to embodiment 2. Fig. 21B is a conceptual diagram showing an example of a display mode of a light diffusion degree setting screen of the control device according to embodiment 2. Fig. 22 is a flowchart showing an example of a light diffusion degree fine adjustment process in the control device of an illumination device according to embodiment 2.

[0009] Modes for carrying out the invention (embodiments) will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The present invention is not limited to the contents described in the following embodiments. Furthermore, the components described below include those that can be easily imagined by a person skilled in the art and those that are substantially identical. Furthermore, the components described below can be combined as appropriate. The disclosure is merely an example, and appropriate modifications that a person skilled in the art can easily conceive while maintaining the gist of the invention are naturally included within the scope of the present invention. Furthermore, for clarity of explanation, the drawings may show the width, thickness, shape, etc. of each part schematically compared to the actual embodiment. However, these are merely examples and are not intended to limit the interpretation of the present invention. Furthermore, in this specification and each figure, elements similar to those described above with reference to the previous figures may be designated by the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions may be omitted as appropriate.

[0010] FIG. 1A is a side view illustrating an example of an illumination device 1 according to an embodiment. FIG. 1B is a perspective view illustrating an example of an optical element 100 according to an embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1A, the illumination device 1 includes a light source 4, a reflector 4a, and an optical element 100. As shown in FIG. 1B, the optical element 100 includes a first liquid crystal cell 2_1, a second liquid crystal cell 2_2, a third liquid crystal cell 2_3, and a fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4. The light source 4 is formed of, for example, a light-emitting diode (LED). The reflector 4a is a component that collects light from the light source 4 onto the optical element 100.

[0011] In FIG. 1B , the Dz direction indicates the emission direction of light from the light source 4 and the reflector 4 a. The optical element 100 is configured by stacking a first liquid crystal cell 2_1, a second liquid crystal cell 2_2, a third liquid crystal cell 2_3, and a fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4 in the Dz direction. In the present disclosure, the optical element 100 is configured by stacking the first liquid crystal cell 2_1, the second liquid crystal cell 2_2, the third liquid crystal cell 2_3, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4 in this order from the light source 4 side (the lower side of FIG. 1B ). In FIG. 1B , one direction of a plane parallel to the stacking plane of the first liquid crystal cell 2_1, the second liquid crystal cell 2_2, the third liquid crystal cell 2_3, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4, which is perpendicular to the Dz direction, is defined as the Dx direction (first direction), and a direction perpendicular to both the Dx direction and the Dz direction is defined as the Dy direction (second direction).

[0012] The first liquid crystal cell 2_1, the second liquid crystal cell 2_2, the third liquid crystal cell 2_3, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4 each have the same configuration. In the present disclosure, the first liquid crystal cell 2_1 and the fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4 are liquid crystal cells for p-wave polarization. Furthermore, the second liquid crystal cell 2_2 and the third liquid crystal cell 2_3 are liquid crystal cells for s-wave polarization. Hereinafter, the first liquid crystal cell 2_1, the second liquid crystal cell 2_2, the third liquid crystal cell 2_3, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4 will also be collectively referred to as "liquid crystal cells 2."

[0013] The liquid crystal cell 2 includes a first substrate 5 and a second substrate 6. FIG. 2 is a schematic plan view of the first substrate 5 as viewed from the Dz direction. FIG. 3 is a schematic plan view of the second substrate 6 as viewed from the Dz direction. In FIG. 3, the drive electrodes are visible through the substrates, but the drive electrodes and wiring are shown with solid lines for clarity. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a liquid crystal cell in which the first substrate 5 and the second substrate 6 are stacked in the Dz direction. In FIG. 4, the drive electrodes and wiring on the second substrate side are shown with solid lines, and the drive electrodes and wiring on the first substrate side are shown with dotted lines for clarity. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A' in FIG. 4. Note that FIGS. 2, 3, 4, and 5 illustrate a third liquid crystal cell 2_3 and a fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4 in which the drive electrodes 10a and 10b of the first substrate 5 extend in the Dx direction and the drive electrodes 13a and 13b of the second substrate 6 extend in the Dy direction.

[0014] As shown in FIG. 5, the liquid crystal cell 2 includes a liquid crystal layer 8 between a first substrate 5 and a second substrate 6, the periphery of which is sealed with a sealing material 7.

[0015] The liquid crystal layer 8 modulates light passing through the liquid crystal layer 8 according to the state of the electric field. Positive nematic liquid crystal is used as the liquid crystal molecules, but other liquid crystals having a similar effect may also be used.

[0016] As shown in FIG. 2 , the liquid crystal layer 8 side of the base material 9 of the first substrate 5 is provided with a plurality of drive electrodes 10a, 10b, a plurality of metal wirings 11a, 11b that supply drive voltages to the drive electrodes 10a, 10b, and a plurality of metal wirings 11c, 11d that supply drive voltages to a plurality of drive electrodes 13a, 13b (see FIG. 3 ) provided on the second substrate 6, which will be described later. The metal wirings 11a, 11b, 11c, and 11d are provided in a wiring layer on the first substrate 5. The metal wirings 11a, 11b, 11c, and 11d are provided at intervals in the wiring layer on the first substrate 5. Hereinafter, the plurality of drive electrodes 10a, 10b may be simply referred to as "drive electrodes 10." Furthermore, the plurality of metal wirings 11a, 11b, 11c, and 11d may be referred to as "first metal wirings 11." 2 and 7, in the third liquid crystal cell 2_3 and the fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4, the drive electrodes 10 on the first substrate 5 extend in the Dx direction. Note that in the first liquid crystal cell 2_1 and the second liquid crystal cell 2_2, the drive electrodes 10 on the first substrate 5 extend in the Dy direction.

[0017] As shown in FIG. 3 , the liquid crystal layer 8 side of the base material 12 of the second substrate 6 shown in FIG. 5 includes multiple drive electrodes 13a and 13b and multiple metal wirings 14a and 14b that supply drive voltages to these drive electrodes 13. The metal wirings 14a and 14b are provided in the wiring layer of the second substrate 6. The metal wirings 14a and 14b are provided at intervals in the wiring layer on the second substrate 6. Hereinafter, the multiple drive electrodes 13a and 13b may be simply referred to as "drive electrodes 13." The multiple metal wirings 14a and 14b may be referred to as "second metal wirings 14." As shown in FIGS. 3 and 7 , in the third liquid crystal cell 2_3 and the fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4, the drive electrodes 13 on the second substrate 6 extend in the Dy direction. Note that in the first liquid crystal cell 2_1 and the second liquid crystal cell 2_2, the drive electrodes 13 on the second substrate 6 extend in the Dx direction.

[0018] The driving electrodes 10 and 13 are translucent electrodes formed of a translucent conductive material (translucent conductive oxide) such as ITO (indium tin oxide). The first substrate 5 and the second substrate 6 are translucent substrates such as glass or resin. The first metal wiring 11 and the second metal wiring 14 are formed of at least one metal material selected from aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), silver (Ag), molybdenum (Mo), and alloys thereof. The first metal wiring 11 and the second metal wiring 14 may also be formed as a laminated body in which a plurality of layers are stacked using one or more of these metal materials. At least one metal material selected from aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), silver (Ag), molybdenum (Mo), and alloys thereof has lower resistance than a translucent conductive oxide such as ITO.

[0019] The metal wiring 11c of the first substrate 5 and the metal wiring 14a of the second substrate 6 are connected by a conductive portion 15a made of, for example, conductive paste, etc. The metal wiring 11d of the first substrate 5 and the metal wiring 14b of the second substrate 6 are connected by a conductive portion 15b made of, for example, conductive paste, etc.

[0020] Furthermore, connection (Flex-on-Board) terminal portions 16a and 16b to be connected to a flexible printed circuit (FPC) (not shown) are provided in an area on the first substrate 5 that does not overlap with the second substrate 6 in the Dz direction. The connection terminal portions 16a and 16b each include four connection terminals corresponding to the metal wirings 11a, 11b, 11c, and 11d.

[0021] The connection terminals 16a and 16b are provided on the wiring layer of the first substrate 5. A drive voltage is supplied to the liquid crystal cell 2 from the FPC connected to the connection terminal 16a or the connection terminal 16b to be applied to the drive electrodes 10a and 10b on the first substrate 5 and the drive electrodes 13a and 13b on the second substrate 6. Hereinafter, the connection terminals 16a and 16b may be simply referred to as "connection terminals 16."

[0022] As shown in FIG. 4 , the liquid crystal cell 2 has the first substrate 5 and the second substrate 6 overlapping in the Dz direction (light irradiation direction), and the plurality of drive electrodes 10 on the first substrate 5 intersect with the plurality of drive electrodes 13 on the second substrate 6 as viewed from the Dz direction. In the liquid crystal cell 2 configured in this manner, the alignment direction of the liquid crystal molecules 17 in the liquid crystal layer 8 can be controlled by supplying drive voltages to the plurality of drive electrodes 10 on the first substrate 5 and the plurality of drive electrodes 13 on the second substrate 6, respectively. The region in which the alignment direction of the liquid crystal molecules 17 in the liquid crystal layer 8 can be controlled is referred to as the "effective area AA." In the effective area AA, the refractive index distribution of the liquid crystal layer 8 changes, thereby enabling control of the degree of diffusion of light passing through the effective area AA of the liquid crystal cell 2. The region outside the effective area AA, where the liquid crystal layer 8 is sealed with the sealant 7, is referred to as the "peripheral area GA" (see FIG. 5 ).

[0023] 5, in the effective area AA of the first substrate 5, the drive electrode 10 (drive electrode 10a in FIG. 5) is covered with an alignment film 18. In addition, in the effective area AA of the second substrate 6, the drive electrode 13 (drive electrodes 13a and 13b in FIG. 5) is covered with an alignment film 19. The alignment directions of the liquid crystal molecules in the alignment film 18 and the alignment film 19 are different.

[0024] 6A is a diagram showing the alignment direction of the alignment film on the first substrate 5. FIG. 6B is a diagram showing the alignment direction of the alignment film on the second substrate 6.

[0025] As shown in Figures 6A and 6B, the alignment direction of the alignment film 18 on the first substrate 5 and the alignment direction of the alignment film 19 on the second substrate 6 intersect with each other in a plan view. Specifically, as shown by the solid arrow in Figure 6A, the alignment direction of the alignment film 18 on the first substrate 5 is perpendicular to the extension direction of the drive electrodes 10a and 10b shown by the dashed arrow in Figure 6A. Furthermore, as shown by the solid arrow in Figure 6B, the alignment direction of the alignment film 19 on the second substrate 6 is perpendicular to the extension direction of the drive electrodes 13a and 13b shown by the dashed arrow in Figure 6B. In the following description, the extension direction of each of the drive electrodes 10 and 13 and the alignment direction of the alignment films 18 and 19 covering them are described as being perpendicular to each other, but they may also intersect at an angle other than perpendicular, for example, an angle in the range of 85° to 90°. Furthermore, it is preferable that the drive electrodes 10 on the first substrate 5 side and the drive electrodes 13 on the second substrate 6 side are perpendicular to each other, but they may intersect at an angle ranging from 85° to 90°, for example. The alignment direction of the alignment films 18 and 19 is formed by a rubbing treatment or a photo-alignment treatment.

[0026] Here, the mechanism by which the shape of light is changed by each liquid crystal cell 2 (first liquid crystal cell 2_1, second liquid crystal cell 2_2, third liquid crystal cell 2_3, and fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4) will be described. Fig. 7 is a diagram showing the layered structure of the optical element 100 according to the embodiment. Figs. 8A, 8B, 8C, and 8D are conceptual diagrams for explaining the change in the shape of light by the optical element 100 according to the embodiment. Figs. 8A, 8B, 8C, and 8D show an example in which a potential difference is generated between each drive electrode of the shaded substrate of each liquid crystal cell 2.

[0027] 7, the optical element 100 is provided on the optical axis of the light source 4, indicated by the dashed line, and as described above, the first liquid crystal cell 2_1, the second liquid crystal cell 2_2, the third liquid crystal cell 2_3, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4 are stacked in this order from the light source 4 side (the lower side in FIG. 7). The third liquid crystal cell 2_3 and the fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4 are stacked in a state rotated by 90° with respect to the first liquid crystal cell 2_1 and the second liquid crystal cell 2_2.

[0028] 6A and 6B , in each liquid crystal cell 2, the alignment direction of the alignment film intersects between the first substrate 5 side and the second substrate 6 side. As a result, the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer 8 gradually changes from the Dx direction to the Dy direction (or from the Dy direction to the Dx direction) as it moves from the first substrate 5 side to the second substrate 6 side, and the polarization component of the transmitted light rotates along this change. That is, in the liquid crystal cell 2, the polarization component that was a p-polarized component on the first substrate 5 side changes to an s-polarized component as it moves toward the second substrate 6 side, and the polarization component that was an s-polarized component on the first substrate 5 side changes to a p-polarized component as it moves toward the second substrate 6 side. This rotation of the polarization component may be referred to as optical rotation.

[0029] 8A shows a state in which no potential is generated between the adjacent electrodes of each liquid crystal cell 2. In this case, only optical rotation occurs in each liquid crystal cell 2, and none of the polarized light components are diffused.

[0030] 8B , for example, by generating a potential difference between the drive electrodes 10 a and 10 b on the first substrate 5 side of the first liquid crystal cell 2_1, the liquid crystal molecules are oriented in an arc shape between the electrodes, thereby forming a refractive index distribution along the Dx direction in the liquid crystal layer 8. When light from the light source 4 passes through in this state, the refractive index distribution acts on the polarized light component parallel to the Dx direction (the p-polarized component in FIG. 8B ), causing the p-polarized light component to diffuse in the Dx direction.

[0031] Furthermore, when a potential difference is also generated between the drive electrodes 13 a and 13 b on the second substrate 6 side of the first liquid crystal cell 2_1, a refractive index distribution in the Dy direction is formed on the second substrate 6 side, which causes the s-polarized component to diffuse in the Dy direction on the second substrate 6 side. That is, the polarized component that changed from a p-polarized component to an s-polarized component while passing through the liquid crystal layer 8 of the first liquid crystal cell 2_1 now diffuses in the Dy direction as well. On the other hand, the s-polarized component when incident on the first liquid crystal cell 2_1 undergoes optical rotation while passing through the liquid crystal layer 8, but becomes a polarized component that intersects with both refractive index distributions, and therefore passes through the first liquid crystal cell 2_1 with only optical rotation without being diffused.

[0032] The s-polarized light component that enters the first liquid crystal cell 2_1 is converted to a p-polarized light component after passing through the first liquid crystal cell 2_1, and the second liquid crystal cell 2_2 acts on the p-polarized light component. That is, as shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B , the first liquid crystal cell 2_1 acts on the p-polarized light component of the light that enters the optical element 100, and the second liquid crystal cell 2_2 acts on the s-polarized light component. The third liquid crystal cell 2_3 and the fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4 are rotated 90° relative to the first liquid crystal cell 2_1 and the second liquid crystal cell 2_2, so that the polarization components that act on them are also swapped by 90°. That is, the third liquid crystal cell 2_3 acts on the s-polarized light component that enters the optical element 100, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4 acts on the p-polarized light component that enters the optical element 100.

[0033] 8C , in the optical element, by applying a potential difference between the drive electrodes extending in the Dy direction for each liquid crystal cell 2 (between the drive electrodes 10 a and 10 b on the first substrate 5 for the first liquid crystal cell 2_1 and the second liquid crystal cell 2_2, and between the drive electrodes 13 a and 13 b on the second substrate 6 for the third liquid crystal cell 2_3 and the fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4), the p-polarized light component can be acted upon, and the shape of the light can be enlarged mainly in the Dx direction. This effect may be referred to as lateral diffusion.

[0034] 8D , by applying a potential difference between the drive electrodes extending in the Dx direction for each liquid crystal cell 2 (between the drive electrodes 13 a and 13 b on the second substrate 6 in the first liquid crystal cell 2_1 and the second liquid crystal cell 2_2, and between the drive electrodes 10 a and 10 b on the first substrate 5 in the third liquid crystal cell 2_3 and the fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4), the s-polarized light component can be affected, and the shape of the light can be enlarged mainly in the Dy direction. This effect may be called vertical diffusion.

[0035] The degree of light diffusion in each direction depends on the potential difference between adjacent drive electrodes 10a and 10b (or between drive electrodes 13a and 13b). If the potential difference between drive electrodes 10a and 10b (or between drive electrodes 13a and 13b) is set to a predetermined maximum potential difference (e.g., 30 V), the light diffusion in that direction will be maximum (100%). If no potential difference is generated, no light diffusion will occur in that direction (0%). Alternatively, if the potential difference between drive electrodes 10a and 10b (or between drive electrodes 13a and 13b) is set to 50% of the maximum potential difference (e.g., 15 V), the light diffusion in that direction will be 50%.

[0036] The distance (also called the cell gap) between the substrates (between the first substrate 5 and the second substrate 6) of each liquid crystal cell 2 is wide, about 30 μm to 50 μm, which minimizes the influence of the electric field formed on one substrate on the other substrate. Furthermore, the drive voltage that generates a potential difference between adjacent drive electrodes 10 a, 10 b (or drive electrodes 13 a, 13 b) is a so-called AC rectangular wave, which, needless to say, prevents image sticking of the liquid crystal molecules.

[0037] In addition, the orientation direction of each orientation film, the extension direction of the drive electrodes of each substrate, and the angle between them can be changed as appropriate for the entire optical element 100 or for each liquid crystal cell 2 depending on the characteristics of the liquid crystal used and the optical properties desired to be achieved.

[0038] In this embodiment, the optical element 100 is described as having a configuration in which four liquid crystal cells, a first liquid crystal cell 2_1, a second liquid crystal cell 2_2, a third liquid crystal cell 2_3, and a fourth liquid crystal cell 2_4, are stacked together. However, this configuration is not limited to this, and it is also possible to use a configuration in which, for example, two or three liquid crystal cells 2 are stacked together, or a configuration in which five or more liquid crystal cells 2 are stacked together.

[0039] In the present disclosure, in the lighting device 1 configured as described above, the light incident on the optical element from the light source 4 is controlled in two directions, the Dx direction and the Dy direction, by controlling the drive voltage of each liquid crystal cell 2. The vertical and horizontal diffusions may be collectively referred to as light diffusion. This changes the shape of the light emitted from the optical element. The light shape refers to the shape of the light appearing on a plane parallel to the exit surface of the optical element, and may also be referred to as the light distribution shape. The control of the degree of light diffusion in the present disclosure will now be described with reference to FIG. 9 .

[0040] 9 is a conceptual diagram for explaining the control of the degree of light diffusion by the lighting device 1 according to the embodiment. Fig. 9 shows the light illumination range on a virtual plane xy perpendicular to the Dz direction. Note that the outline of the actual illumination range may be slightly unclear due to factors such as the distance from the light source 4 and the light diffraction phenomenon.

[0041] As described above, the alignment direction of the liquid crystal molecules 17 in the liquid crystal layer 8 is controlled by supplying a drive voltage to each of the drive electrodes 10, 13 of each liquid crystal cell 2 of the optical element 100 provided on the optical axis of the light source 4. This controls the light distribution shape of the light emitted from the optical element 100.

[0042] Specifically, for example, as described above, the light distribution shape in the Dx direction changes depending on the drive voltage applied to the drive electrodes 10 or 13 extending in the Dy direction in each liquid crystal cell 2. Such diffusion of light in the Dx direction may be referred to as horizontal diffusion. Furthermore, the light distribution shape in the Dy direction changes depending on the drive voltage applied to the drive electrodes 10 or 13 extending in the Dx direction in the first to fourth liquid crystal cells. Such diffusion of light in the Dy direction may be referred to as vertical diffusion.

[0043] In the present disclosure, the minimum diffusivity of the horizontal and vertical diffusion is 0% and the maximum diffusivity is 100%. More specifically, when the horizontal diffusivity is 0%, the drive electrodes (e.g., the drive electrodes 10 extending in the Dy direction on the first substrate 5 of the first liquid crystal cell 2_1) that function to widen the light distribution in the Dx direction do not affect the refractive index distribution of the liquid crystal layer 8. In this case, there is no potential difference between adjacent drive electrodes 10a, 10b, or no potential is supplied to the electrodes. On the other hand, when the horizontal diffusivity is 100%, the drive electrodes (e.g., the drive electrodes 10 extending in the Dy direction on the first substrate 5 of the first liquid crystal cell 2_1) that function to widen the light distribution in the Dx direction have the maximum effect on the refractive index distribution of the liquid crystal layer 8. In this case, the potential difference between adjacent drive electrodes 10a, 10b is set to the maximum potential difference (e.g., 30 V) in the optical element 100. Furthermore, when the horizontal diffusion rate is greater than 0% and less than 100%, a potential adjusted so that the potential difference between the adjacent drive electrodes 10a and 10b is greater than 0V and less than the maximum potential difference (e.g., 30V) is applied to the electrodes. The same applies to vertical diffusion.

[0044] The outline a in Fig. 9 illustrates an illumination range when the horizontal diffusivity and the vertical diffusivity are both 100%. The outline b in Fig. 9 illustrates an illumination range when the horizontal diffusivity is 100% and the vertical diffusivity is 0%. The outline c in Fig. 9 illustrates an illumination range when the horizontal diffusivity is 0% and the vertical diffusivity is 100%. The outline d in Fig. 9 illustrates an illumination range when the horizontal diffusivity and the vertical diffusivity are both 0%. That is, the outline d shows the light distribution state when light from the light source 4 is emitted without being controlled by the optical element 100 (i.e., transmitted through the optical element 100 as is).

[0045] In this way, in the lighting device 1 configured as described above, the horizontal and vertical diffusivities of the light emitted from the optical element 100 can be controlled by controlling the drive voltage of each liquid crystal cell 2. This allows the light distribution shape of the light emitted from the lighting device 1 to be changed.

[0046] 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a lighting system according to an embodiment. The lighting system according to the embodiment includes a lighting device 1 and a control device 200. The control device 200 is exemplified by a portable communication terminal device such as a smartphone or a tablet.

[0047] Data and various command signals are transmitted and received between the lighting devices 1 and the control device 200 via communication means 300. In the present disclosure, the communication means 300 is, for example, wireless communication means such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or Wi-Fi (registered trademark). The lighting devices 1 and the control device 200 may communicate wirelessly via a predetermined network such as a mobile communication network. Alternatively, the lighting devices 1 and the control device 200 may be wired and connected to each other to perform wired communication. Note that while FIG. 10 illustrates an example in which the control device 200 controls lighting devices 1_1, 1_2, ..., 1_n, the present disclosure is not limited by the number of lighting devices 1 controlled by the control device 200.

[0048] 11 is an external view showing an example of a control device 200 according to an embodiment. The control device 200 is a display device (touch screen) with a touch detection function, in which a display panel 20 and a touch sensor 30 are integrated. The control device 200 is equipped with, as internal components, various ICs such as a detection IC and a display IC, a central processing unit (CPU) of a smartphone, tablet, or the like that constitutes the control device 200, a random access memory (RAM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), a read-only memory (ROM), a graphics processing unit (GPU), and the like.

[0049] The display panel 20 is a so-called in-cell type or hybrid type device in which the touch sensor 30 is built in and integrated. Building the touch sensor 30 in and integrating the display panel 20 includes, for example, using some of the components, such as the substrate and electrodes, used as the display panel 20 and some of the components, such as the substrate and electrodes, used as the touch sensor 30. Note that the display panel 20 may also be a so-called on-cell type device in which the touch sensor 30 is mounted on a display device.

[0050] The display panel 20 is, for example, a liquid crystal display panel using a liquid crystal display element, but is not limited to this, and the display panel 20 may be, for example, an organic EL display panel (OLED: Organic Light Emitting Diode) or an inorganic EL display panel (micro LED, mini LED).

[0051] The touch sensor 30 is, for example, a capacitance type touch sensor, but is not limited to this, and the touch sensor 30 may be, for example, a resistive film type touch sensor, an ultrasonic type touch sensor, or an optical type touch sensor.

[0052] 12 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of a touch detection area in the touch sensor 30. A plurality of detection elements 31 are provided in the detection area FA of the touch sensor 30. The plurality of detection elements 31 are arranged in a matrix within the detection area FA of the touch sensor 30, aligned in the X direction and the Y direction perpendicular to the X direction. In other words, the touch sensor 30 has a detection area FA that overlaps with the plurality of detection elements 31 aligned in the X direction and the Y direction.

[0053] Hereinafter, a specific configuration and operation for controlling the degree of light diffusion of the lighting device 1 in the configuration of the lighting system according to the above-described embodiment will be described.

[0054] 13 is a diagram showing an example of a control block configuration of a control device 200 according to embodiment 1. In embodiment 1, a control block configuration for executing a light diffusion degree setting process, which will be described later, will be described.

[0055] 13 , the control device 200 according to the first embodiment includes a display panel 20, a touch sensor 30, a detection circuit 211, a position extraction circuit 212, a movement amount calculation circuit 221, a light diffusion degree calculation circuit 222, a memory circuit 223, a position conversion circuit 224, a transmission / reception circuit 225, and a display control circuit 231. The detection circuit 211 and the position extraction circuit 212 are configured, for example, by a detection IC. Alternatively, the detection circuit 211, the position extraction circuit 212, and the display control circuit 231 may be mounted as a single display IC on the display panel 20 or on an FPC connected to the display panel 20. The movement amount calculation circuit 221, the light diffusion degree calculation circuit 222, the memory circuit 223, and the position conversion circuit 224 are configured, for example, by a CPU, RAM, EEPROM, ROM, etc., of a smartphone, tablet, or the like that constitutes the control device 200. The display control circuit 231 may be a display IC mounted on the display panel 20 as described above, and may further include, for example, a GPU of a smartphone, tablet, or the like that constitutes the control device 200. The transmission / reception circuit 225 is configured, for example, by a wireless communication module of a smartphone, tablet, or the like that constitutes the control device 200.

[0056] The detection circuit 211 is a circuit that detects whether or not the touch sensor 30 is touched based on the detection signals output from the detection elements 31 of the touch sensor 30 .

[0057] The position extraction circuit 212 is a logic circuit that, when a touch is detected by the detection circuit 211, determines the touch detection position, and therefore the position of the touched object (image).

[0058] The movement amount calculation circuit 221 calculates the amount of movement of an object (image) that moves while touching the touch detection position extracted by the position extraction circuit 212 or the light diffusion degree setting screen described later. The movement amount calculation circuit 221 is a component realized by, for example, a CPU of a smartphone, tablet, or the like that constitutes the control device 200.

[0059] The light diffusion degree calculation circuit 222 calculates the diffusion degree of light emitted from the lighting device 1 to be controlled, based on the touch detection position or the movement amount of the touched object calculated by the movement amount calculation circuit 221. The light diffusion degree calculation circuit 222 is a component realized by, for example, a CPU of a smartphone, tablet, or the like that constitutes the control device 200.

[0060] The memory circuitry 223 is configured, for example, with a RAM, EEPROM, ROM, or the like of a smartphone, tablet, or the like that constitutes the control device 200. In the present disclosure, the memory circuitry 223 stores, for example, the touch detection position or the position of the touched object extracted by the position extraction circuit 212, and the light diffusion degree of the lighting device 1 to be controlled. In this embodiment, the memory circuitry 223 also stores a reference movement amount Px in the X direction and a reference movement amount Py in the Y direction that are used in the light diffusion degree setting process described below. The memory circuitry 223 also temporarily stores, for example, intermediate data in the light diffusion degree setting process described below. The reference movement amounts Px and Py will be described later.

[0061] The position conversion circuit 224 is a component realized by, for example, a CPU of a smartphone, tablet, or the like that constitutes the control device 200. In the present disclosure, the position conversion circuit 224 converts light diffusion degree information transmitted from the lighting device 1 to be controlled into position information on the display area of ​​the display panel 20 of the control device 200.

[0062] The transmission / reception circuit 225 transmits and receives light diffusion degree information to and from the lighting device 1. Specifically, the transmission / reception circuit 225 transmits the Dx-direction light diffusion degree S1x and the Dy-direction light diffusion degree S1y as first light diffusion degree information to the lighting device 1. In addition, the transmission / reception circuit 225 receives second light diffusion degree information (the Dx-direction light diffusion degree S2x and the Dy-direction light diffusion degree S2y) transmitted from the lighting device 1.

[0063] The display control circuit 231 executes a display control process for displaying a light diffusion degree setting screen (described later) on the display panel 20. In the present disclosure, the display control circuit 231 controls the display on the display panel 20 based on the light diffusion degree information and the position information of various image images stored in the memory circuit 223.

[0064] Fig. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a control block configuration of the illumination device 1 according to embodiment 1. As shown in Fig. 14 , the illumination device 1 according to the embodiment includes a transmission / reception circuit 111, an electrode driving circuit 112, and a memory circuit 113 as control blocks for controlling the optical element 100 described above.

[0065] The transmission / reception circuit 111 transmits and receives light diffusion degree information to and from the control device 200. Specifically, the transmission / reception circuit 111 receives first light diffusion degree information (Dx-direction light diffusion degree S1x and Dy-direction light diffusion degree S1y) transmitted from the control device 200. In addition, the transmission / reception circuit 111 transmits the Dx-direction light diffusion degree S2x and the Dy-direction light diffusion degree S2y stored in the memory circuit 113 to the control device 200 as second light diffusion degree information.

[0066] In the present disclosure, when the lighting device 1 is started, the transmission / reception circuit 111 transmits the Dx-direction light diffusion degree S2x and the Dy-direction light diffusion degree S2y stored in the memory circuit 113 to the control device 200 as second light diffusion degree information, and stores the first light diffusion degree information (the Dx-direction light diffusion degree S1x and the Dy-direction light diffusion degree S1y) transmitted from the control device 200 through a light diffusion degree setting process of the control device 200 (described later) as new Dx-direction light diffusion degree S2x and Dy-direction light diffusion degree S2y in the memory circuit 113. That is, when the first light diffusion degree information is transmitted from the control device 200 to the lighting device 1, the second light diffusion degree information is updated to the first light diffusion degree information. Note that the lighting device 1 does not initially store the second light diffusion degree information (both vertical and horizontal diffusion degrees are 0%). In this case, the second light diffusion degree information is stored when the first light diffusion degree information is transmitted from the control device 200.

[0067] The electrode driving circuit 112 supplies driving voltages according to the Dx direction light diffusion degree S2x and the Dy direction light diffusion degree S2y stored in the memory circuit 113 to the driving electrodes 10 and 13 of each liquid crystal cell 2 of the optical element 100 .

[0068] Specifically, when the lighting device 1 is started up, the electrode driving circuit 112 supplies a driving voltage corresponding to the second light diffusion degree information stored in the memory circuit 113 to each driving electrode 10, 13 of each liquid crystal cell 2 of the optical element 100.

[0069] In addition, the electrode driving circuit 112 supplies a driving voltage corresponding to the second light diffusion degree information updated based on the first light diffusion degree information transmitted from the control device 200 to each driving electrode 10, 13 of each liquid crystal cell 2 of the optical element 100.

[0070] The memory circuit 113 is configured with, for example, a RAM, an EEPROM, a ROM, etc. In the present disclosure, the memory circuit 113 stores the final value of the second light diffusion degree information when the lighting device 1 was last operated.

[0071] 15A, 15B, 15C, and 15D are conceptual diagrams showing examples of display aspects of the light diffusion degree setting screen of the control device 200 according to embodiment 1. On the light diffusion degree setting screens shown in Fig. 15A, 15B, 15C, and 15D, the X direction is defined to correspond to the Dx direction (first direction) in the light diffusion degree control of the lighting device 1, and the Y direction is defined to correspond to the Dy direction (second direction) in the light diffusion degree control of the lighting device 1. In addition, an XY plane is defined with a predetermined position on the light diffusion degree setting screen as the origin O(0,0).

[0072] The display panel 20 is provided with a display area DA that overlaps the detection area FA of the touch sensor 30 in a plan view. In the examples shown in Figures 15A, 15B, 15C, and 15D, a light distribution shape object OBJ is displayed with its center point at the origin O (0, 0) of the XY plane on the light diffusion degree setting screen, and a first slider S1 (a first light diffusion degree setting object) and a second slider S2 (a second light diffusion degree setting object) for manipulating the light distribution state of the lighting device 1 are arranged on the contour line of this light distribution shape object OBJ.

[0073] The light distribution shape object OBJ is an image corresponding to the light distribution state of the light emitted from the lighting device 1.

[0074] The first slider S1 and the second slider S2 are, for example, image data displayed on the display area DA, and can be moved (drag operation) by the user's finger.

[0075] The shape of the light distribution shape object OBJ can be changed by moving the first slider S1 in the X direction. At the same time, the degree of light diffusion of the lighting device 1 in the Dx direction is controlled. Furthermore, the shape of the light distribution shape object OBJ can be changed by moving the second slider S2 in the Y direction. At the same time, the degree of light diffusion of the lighting device 1 in the Dy direction is controlled.

[0076] FIG. 15A illustrates an example in which the Dx-direction light diffusion degree Sx of the lighting device 1 is 50% and the Dy-direction light diffusion degree Sy is 50%. As shown in FIG. 15A, the values ​​of the Dx-direction light diffusion degree Sx and the Dy-direction light diffusion degree Sy are also displayed on the display screen. Hereinafter, the Dx-direction light diffusion degree Sx will be referred to as the horizontal diffusion degree Sx, and the Dy-direction light diffusion degree Sy will be referred to as the vertical diffusion degree Sy. FIG. 15B illustrates an example in which the horizontal diffusion degree Sx of the lighting device 1 is 100% and the vertical diffusion degree Sy is 100%. FIG. 15C illustrates an example in which the horizontal diffusion degree Sx of the lighting device 1 is 0% and the vertical diffusion degree Sy is 0%. FIG. 15D illustrates an example in which the horizontal diffusion degree Sx of the lighting device 1 is 100% and the vertical diffusion degree Sy is 50%.

[0077] In the present disclosure, the shape of the light distribution shape object OBJ on the light diffusion setting screen changes to a circle or an ellipse as the first slider S1 and the second slider S2 are moved, as shown in Figures 15A, 15B, 15C, and 15D.

[0078] 9, in the lighting device 1 to be controlled in the present disclosure, even when both the horizontal diffusivity Sx and the vertical diffusivity Sy of the lighting device 1 are set to 0%, the lighting device 1 irradiates a predetermined, approximately circular area with light (outline d). In the present disclosure, when both the horizontal diffusivity Sx and the vertical diffusivity Sy are set to 0%, as shown in FIG. 15C, a small, circular light distribution shape object OBJ is displayed.

[0079] Even if both the horizontal diffusivity Sx and the vertical diffusivity Sy are set to 0%, there is an actual range of light emitted by the lighting device 1, and therefore the actual range of light emission can be intuitively grasped.

[0080] In the present disclosure, as shown in FIGS. 15A, 15B, 15C, and 15D, a first area TA1 is provided as an area in which the first slider S1 can be operated.

[0081] The first slider S1 can be moved in the X direction within the first area TA1 between a position on the contour line of the light distribution shape object OBJ when the horizontal diffusivity Sx is 0% to a position on the contour line of the light distribution shape object OBJ when the horizontal diffusivity Sx is 100%. Therefore, the first slider S1 does not move when the user's finger is lifted from the screen, or even if the finger is not lifted from the screen, if the first slider S1 moves out of the first area TA1.

[0082] In addition, in the present disclosure, as shown in FIGS. 15A, 15B, 15C, and 15D, a second area TA2 is provided as an area in which the second slider S2 can be operated.

[0083] The second slider S2 can be moved in the Y direction within the second area TA2 between a position on the contour line of the light distribution shape object OBJ when the vertical diffusion rate Sy is 0% to a position on the contour line of the light distribution shape object OBJ when the vertical diffusion rate Sy is 100%. Therefore, the second slider S2 does not move when the user's finger is removed from the screen, or even if the finger is not removed from the screen, if the second slider S2 moves out of the second area TA2.

[0084] 16 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the position and the light diffusion degree on the light diffusion degree setting screen of the control device 200 according to embodiment 1. In the present disclosure, for ease of explanation, the position (coordinates) on the display area DA of the display panel 20 and the position (coordinates) on the detection area FA of the touch sensor 30 are described as being equivalent.

[0085] On the light diffusion degree setting screen of the control device 200 according to the first embodiment, the horizontal diffusion degree Sx of the lighting device 1 can be set by the amount of movement of the position x of the intersection between the X axis of the XY plane and the contour line of the light distribution shape object OBJ.

[0086] In the present disclosure, the position x of the intersection of the X-axis and the outline of the light distribution shape object OBJ is set as the center point of the first slider S1. In other words, the position x0 of the first slider S1 on the display area DA overlaps with the position x of the intersection of the X-axis and the outline of the light distribution shape object OBJ. This allows the horizontal diffusion degree Sx of the lighting device 1 to be set by touching and moving the first slider S1 in the X-axis direction. "Sx" in FIG. 16 indicates the horizontal diffusion degree of the lighting device 1 (for example, "50" [%]).

[0087] The reference movement amount Px in the X direction on the XY plane when the horizontal diffusion degree change amount ΔSx of the lighting device 1 is 1 [%] is the intersection of the X axis and the contour line of the light distribution shape object OBJ when the horizontal diffusion degree Sx is 100 [%]. １００ , the intersection of the X axis with the contour of the light distribution shape object OBJ when the horizontal diffusion degree Sx is 0 [%] is X ０ Then, it is expressed by the following equation (1).

[0088] Px = (X １００ -X ０ ) / 100... (1)

[0089] The relationship between the horizontal diffusivity Sx and the position x0 of the first slider S1 on the display area DA on the XY plane is expressed by the following equations (2) and (3) using the above equation (1).

[0090] Sx = (x0 - X ０ ) / Px...(2)

[0091] x0 = Sx x Px + X ０ ...(3)

[0092] Furthermore, on the light diffusion degree setting screen of the control device 200 according to the first embodiment, the vertical diffusion degree Sy of the lighting device 1 can be set by the amount of movement of the position y of the intersection between the Y axis of the XY plane and the contour line of the light distribution shape object OBJ.

[0093] In the present disclosure, the center point of the second slider S2 is the position y of the intersection between the Y axis and the outline of the light distribution shape object OBJ. In other words, the position y0 of the second slider S2 on the display area DA overlaps with the position y of the intersection between the Y axis and the outline of the light distribution shape object OBJ. This allows the vertical diffusion degree Sy of the lighting device 1 to be set by touching and moving the second slider S2 in the Y axis direction. "Sy" in FIG. 16 indicates the vertical diffusion degree of the lighting device 1 (for example, "50" [%]).

[0094] The reference movement amount Py in the Y direction on the XY plane when the vertical diffusion degree change amount ΔSy of the lighting device 1 is 1 [%] is the intersection of the Y axis with the contour line of the light distribution shape object OBJ when the vertical diffusion degree Sy is 100 [%]. １００ , the intersection of the Y axis with the contour of the light distribution shape object OBJ when the vertical diffusion degree Sy is 0 [%] is Y ０ Then, it is expressed by the following equation (4).

[0095] Py = (Y １００ -Y ０ ) / 100 ... (4)

[0096] The relationship between the vertical diffusion factor Sy and the position y0 of the second slider S2 on the display area DA on the XY plane is expressed by the following equations (5) and (6) using the above equation (4).

[0097] Sy = (y0 - Y ０ ) / Py...(5)

[0098] y0=Sy×Py+Y ０ ...(6)

[0099] Although the embodiment in which a circular light distribution shape object OBJ is displayed when both the horizontal diffusivity Sx and the vertical diffusivity Sy are set to 0% has been described above, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the origin O (0, 0) of the XY plane on the light diffusion setting screen may be set to the position when both the horizontal diffusivity Sx and the vertical diffusivity Sy are set to 0%.

[0100] The control device 200 of the lighting device 1 according to the first embodiment and the process of setting the light diffusion degree of the lighting device 1 in the lighting system will be described below.

[0101] Fig. 17 is a flowchart showing an example of an initial setting of a light diffusion degree setting screen in the control device 200 of the lighting device 1 according to embodiment 1. Fig. 18 is a flowchart showing an example of a light diffusion degree setting process in the control device 200 of the lighting device 1 according to embodiment 1.

[0102] First, the control device 200 executes the initial setting of the light diffusion degree setting screen shown in FIG.

[0103] The control device 200 transmits a request command for second light diffusion degree information to the already activated lighting device 1. The transmission / reception circuit 111 of the lighting device 1 reads out the second light diffusion degree information stored in the memory circuit 113 and transmits it to the control device 200. The electrode driving circuit 112 of the lighting device 1 supplies a driving voltage corresponding to the second light diffusion degree information stored in the memory circuit 113 to each of the driving electrodes 10, 13 of each liquid crystal cell 2 of the optical element 100.

[0104] The control device 200 determines whether or not the second light diffusion degree information has been received from the lighting device 1 (step S101). If the second light diffusion degree information has not been received (step S101; No), the control device 200 repeatedly executes the process of step S101.

[0105] When the second light diffusion degree information is received from the lighting device 1 (step S101; Yes), the transceiver circuit 225 of the control device 200 stores the Dx direction light diffusion degree S2x of the second light diffusion degree information as the horizontal diffusion degree Sx and the Dy direction light diffusion degree S2y as the vertical diffusion degree Sy in the memory circuit 223 (step S102).

[0106] The position conversion circuit 224 of the control device 200 reads out the horizontal diffusion degree Sx and vertical diffusion degree Sy stored in the memory circuit 223 (step S103), and using the above equations (3) and (6), converts the horizontal diffusion degree Sx to the X-direction position x0 on the display area DA of the first slider S1 on the light diffusion degree setting screen, and converts the vertical diffusion degree Sy to the Y-direction position y0 on the display area DA of the second slider S2 on the light diffusion degree setting screen (step S104), and stores them in the memory circuit 223 (step S105).

[0107] Then, the display control circuit 231 reads out from the memory circuit 223 the horizontal diffusion degree Sx, the X-direction position x0, the vertical diffusion degree Sy, and the Y-direction position y0 obtained by the processing of steps S101 to S105 described above, and executes display control of the display panel 20 so as to reflect these in the shape of the light distribution shape object OBJ, the display of the horizontal diffusion degree Sx, the position of the first slider S1, the display of the vertical diffusion degree Sy, and the position of the second slider S2 (step S106), and transitions to a standby state for the light diffusion degree setting processing shown in FIG. 18 (step S107).

[0108] In the first embodiment, an example will be described in which the light diffusion degree setting process shown in FIG. 18 is executed after transitioning to a standby state for the light diffusion degree setting process in the initial setting of the light diffusion degree setting screen shown in FIG. 17 .

[0109] In the standby state of the light diffusion degree setting process, the control device 200 executes a touch detection process for the first slider S1 (step S111) and a touch detection process for the second slider S2 (step S131). Specifically, if the first slider S1 is touched (step S111; Yes), the process proceeds to step S112. If the first slider S1 is not touched (step S111; No), the process proceeds to step S131. If the second slider S2 is touched (step S131; Yes), the process proceeds to step S132. If the second slider S2 is not touched (step S131; No), the process returns to step S111.

[0110] When the first slider S1 is touched and moves within the first area TA (step S111; Yes), the position extraction circuit 212 extracts the X-direction position x1 of the first slider S1 after it has moved (step S112).

[0111] The movement amount calculation circuit 221 reads the position x0 stored in the memory circuit 223 (step S113) and calculates the X-direction movement amount Δx (=x1-x0) of the first slider S1 (step S114). The position extraction circuit 212 updates the extracted X-direction position x1 on the detection area FA as a new X-direction position x0 and stores it in the memory circuit 223 (step S115).

[0112] The light diffusion degree calculation circuit 222 calculates the horizontal diffusion degree change amount ΔSx by dividing the X-direction movement amount Δx calculated by the movement amount calculation circuit 221 by the reference movement amount Px (step S116). The light diffusion degree calculation circuit 222 also reads the horizontal diffusion degree Sx before the first slider S1 is moved, which is stored in the memory circuit 223 (step S117), calculates the horizontal diffusion degree Sx (=Sx+ΔSx) after the first slider S1 is moved (step S118), and stores it in the memory circuit 223 (step S119).

[0113] Then, the display control circuit 231 reads out from the memory circuit 223 the horizontal diffusion degree Sx and the X-direction position x0 calculated by the processing of steps S112 to S119 described above, and performs display control of the display panel 20 so as to reflect the shape of the light distribution shape object OBJ, the position of the first slider S1, and the horizontal diffusion degree Sx in the display (step S120).

[0114] The detection circuit 211 detects whether the touch on the first slider S1 has been released (step S121). If the touch on the first slider S1 continues (step S121; No), the process from step S112 to step S121 is repeated. As a result, while the touch on the first slider S1 continues, the shape of the light distribution shape object OBJ, the position of the first slider S1, and the display of the horizontal diffusion degree Sx change in real time in accordance with the movement of the first slider S1. That is, the operations from step S112 to step S121 are performed in an extremely short time, for example, at a cycle of 30 Hz to 120 Hz synchronized with the touch detection cycle. Therefore, although the user moves the first slider S1 in step S112, this action is immediately reflected on the display screen via step S120, allowing the user to perceive their action and the change in the display as being performed in unison. This same effect applies to the control of vertical diffusion described below.

[0115] When the touch state on the first slider S1 is released (step S121; Yes), the transceiver circuit 225 reads the horizontal diffusion degree Sx stored in the memory circuit 223 (step S122), sets the read horizontal diffusion degree Sx as the Dx direction light diffusion degree S1x, and transmits the first light diffusion degree information to the lighting device 1 (step S123), and returns to the processing of step S111.

[0116] In the present disclosure, when the touch state on the first slider S1 is released (step S121; Yes), this includes a state in which the drag operation of the first slider S1 is released, such as when the user's finger is removed from the first slider S1 or when the touch detection position is outside the first area TA1.

[0117] The electrode driving circuit 112 of the lighting device 1 stores the first light diffusion degree information (Dx direction light diffusion degree S1x) received from the control device 200 in the memory circuit 113 as second light diffusion degree information, and supplies driving voltages based on the second light diffusion degree information to the driving electrodes 10, 13 of each liquid crystal cell 2 of the optical element 100. As a result, the horizontal diffusion degree Sx set on the light diffusion degree setting screen of the control device 200 is reflected in the light diffusion degree control (horizontal diffusion) of the lighting device 1.

[0118] When the second slider S2 is touched (step S131; Yes), the position extraction circuit 212 extracts the Y-direction position y1 of the second slider S2 on the detection area FA (step S132).

[0119] The movement amount calculation circuit 221 reads out the position y0 stored in the memory circuit 223 (step S133) and calculates the Y-direction movement amount Δy (= y1 - y0) of the second slider S2 (step S134).Then, the position extraction circuit 212 stores the extracted Y-direction position y1 in the detection area FA as the Y-direction position y0 in the display area DA in the memory circuit 223 (step S135).

[0120] The light diffusion degree calculation circuit 222 calculates the vertical diffusion degree change amount ΔSy by dividing the Y-direction movement amount Δy calculated by the movement amount calculation circuit 221 by the reference movement amount Py (step S136). The light diffusion degree calculation circuit 222 also reads the vertical diffusion degree Sy before the second slider movement stored in the memory circuit 223 (step S137), calculates the vertical diffusion degree Sy after the second slider movement (= Sy + ΔSy) (step S138), and stores it in the memory circuit 223 (step S139).

[0121] Then, the display control circuit 231 reads out from the memory circuit 223 the vertical diffusion degree Sy and the Y-direction position y0 calculated by the processing of the above-mentioned steps S132 to S139, and performs display control of the display panel 20 so as to reflect these in the shape of the light distribution shape object OBJ, the position of the second slider S2, and the display of the vertical diffusion degree Sy (step S140).

[0122] The detection circuit 211 detects whether the touch state on the second slider S2 has been released (step S141). If the touch state on the second slider S2 continues (step S141; No), the processes from step S132 to step S141 are repeatedly executed. As a result, while the touch state on the second slider S2 continues, the shape of the light distribution shape object OBJ, the position of the second slider S2, and the display of the vertical diffusion degree Sy change in real time in accordance with the movement of the second slider S2.

[0123] When the touch state on the second slider S2 is released (step S141; Yes), the transceiver circuit 225 reads the vertical diffusion degree Sy stored in the memory circuit 223 (step S142), sets the read vertical diffusion degree Sy as the Dy direction light diffusion degree S1y, and transmits the first light diffusion degree information to the lighting device 1 (step S143), and returns to the processing of step S111.

[0124] In the present disclosure, when the touch state on the second slider S2 is released (step S141; Yes), this includes a state in which the drag operation on the second slider S2 is released, such as when the user's finger is removed from the second slider S2 or when the touch detection position is outside the second area TA2.

[0125] The electrode driving circuit 112 of the lighting device 1 stores the first light diffusion degree information (Dy-direction light diffusion degree S1y) received from the control device 200 in the memory circuit 113 as second light diffusion degree information, and supplies driving voltages based on the second light diffusion degree information to the driving electrodes 10, 13 of each liquid crystal cell 2 of the optical element 100. As a result, the vertical diffusion degree Sy set on the light diffusion degree setting screen of the control device 200 is reflected in the light diffusion degree control (vertical diffusion) of the lighting device 1.

[0126] In the light diffusion degree setting process according to the first embodiment described above, while the first slider S1 is continuously touched, the shape of the light distribution shape object OBJ, the position of the first slider S1, and the display of the horizontal diffusion degree Sx change in real time in accordance with the movement of the first slider S1. Meanwhile, the actual light distribution control of the lighting device 1 is performed after the touch on the first slider S1 or the second slider S2 is released. That is, while the first slider S1 is being touched and moved left or right on the screen, the shape of the light distribution shape object OBJ on the screen changes, but the actual light distribution state of the lighting device 1 does not change. The actual light distribution state of the lighting device 1 changes after the touch on each slider is released or when the touch position moves out of the first area TA1 or the second area TA2. As a result, after setting the light diffusion degree of the lighting device 1 in the Dx direction or Dy direction on the light diffusion degree setting screen of the control device 200, the light diffusion degree after setting will be reflected in the light distribution control of the lighting device.

[0127] 19 is a flowchart showing an example of a light diffusion degree setting process in the control device 200 of the lighting device 1 according to a modification of embodiment 1. Note that differences from the flowchart shown in FIG. 18 will be described in detail here, and overlapping descriptions will be omitted.

[0128] In the light diffusion degree setting process in the control device of the lighting device according to the modified example of embodiment 1 shown in FIG. 19, immediately after executing display control of the display panel 20 in step S120, the transceiver circuit 225 reads the horizontal diffusion degree Sx stored in the memory circuit 223 (step S122), and transmits the first light diffusion degree information to the lighting device 1 using the read horizontal diffusion degree Sx as the Dx direction light diffusion degree S1x (step S123).

[0129] The electrode driving circuit 112 of the lighting device 1 stores the first light diffusion degree information (Dx direction light diffusion degree S1x) received from the control device 200 in the memory circuit 113 as second light diffusion degree information, and supplies driving voltages to each driving electrode 10, 13 of each liquid crystal cell 2 of the optical element 100 based on the second light diffusion degree information.

[0130] Then, the detection circuit 211 detects whether the touch state on the first slider S1 has been released (step S121). If the touch state on the first slider S1 has been released (step S121; Yes), the process returns to step S111.

[0131] If the first slider S1 continues to be touched (step S121; No), the processes from step S112 to step S123 are repeatedly executed. As a result, while the first slider S1 continues to be touched, the shape of the light distribution shape object OBJ, the position of the first slider S1, and the display of the horizontal diffusion degree Sx change in real time in accordance with the movement of the first slider S1. Furthermore, the light distribution state of the lighting device 1 changes in real time in accordance with the movement of the first slider S1 on the light diffusion degree setting screen of the control device 200.

[0132] In addition, in the light diffusion degree setting process in the control device of the lighting device according to the modified example of embodiment 1 shown in FIG. 19, immediately after executing display control of the display panel 20 in step S140, the transceiver circuit 225 reads the vertical diffusion degree Sy stored in the memory circuit 223 (step S142), and transmits the first light diffusion degree information to the lighting device 1 using the read vertical diffusion degree Sy as the Dy-direction light diffusion degree S1y (step S143).

[0133] The electrode driving circuit 112 of the lighting device 1 stores the first light diffusion degree information (Dy direction light diffusion degree S1y) received from the control device 200 in the memory circuit 113 as second light diffusion degree information, and supplies driving voltages to each driving electrode 10, 13 of each liquid crystal cell 2 of the optical element 100 based on the second light diffusion degree information.

[0134] Then, the detection circuit 211 detects whether the touch state on the second slider S2 has been released (step S141). If the touch state on the second slider S2 has been released (step S141; Yes), the process returns to step S111.

[0135] If the second slider S2 continues to be touched (step S141; No), the processes from step S132 to step S143 are repeatedly executed. As a result, while the second slider S2 continues to be touched, the shape of the light distribution shape object OBJ, the position of the second slider S2, and the display of the vertical diffusion degree Sy change in real time in accordance with the movement of the second slider S2. Furthermore, the vertical diffusion degree Sy is reflected in the light diffusion degree control of the lighting device 1 in real time in accordance with the movement of the second slider S2 on the light diffusion degree setting screen of the control device 200.

[0136] In the light diffusion degree setting process according to the modification of the first embodiment described above, not only the shape of the light distribution shape object OBJ but also the orientation control by the lighting device changes in real time in accordance with the movement of the first slider S1 on the light diffusion degree setting screen of the control device 200. This makes it possible to set the light diffusion degrees in the Dx direction and the Dy direction of the lighting device 1 more intuitively than in the light diffusion degree setting process according to the first embodiment.

[0137] 20 is a diagram showing an example of a control block configuration of a control device 200a according to a second embodiment. In the second embodiment, a control block configuration for executing a light diffusion degree fine-tuning process, which will be described later, will be described. Note that the same components as those in the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and descriptions that overlap with those in the first embodiment may be omitted.

[0138] As shown in FIG. 20, the control device 200a of the second embodiment includes a display panel 20, a touch sensor 30, a detection circuit 211, a position extraction circuit 212, a light diffusion degree calculation circuit 222a, a memory circuit 223a, a transmission / reception circuit 225, a position calculation circuit 226, and a display control circuit 231.

[0139] The light diffusion degree calculation circuit 222a adds a fine adjustment amount defined for the object extracted by the position extraction circuit 212 to calculate the light diffusion degree for the lighting device 1 to be controlled. The light diffusion degree calculation circuit 222a is a component realized by, for example, a CPU of a smartphone, tablet, or the like that constitutes the control device 200a. Note that the light diffusion degree calculation circuit 222a may be substantially the same component as the light diffusion degree calculation circuit 222 of the control device 200 according to the first embodiment.

[0140] The memory circuit 223a is configured, for example, with RAM, EEPROM, ROM, etc., of a smartphone, tablet, or the like that constitutes the control device 200a. In this embodiment, the memory circuit 223a stores fine adjustment amounts ΔSxf(+), ΔSxf(−), ΔSyf(+), and ΔSyf(−) used in the light diffusion degree fine adjustment process described below, in addition to the reference movement amount Px in the X direction and the reference movement amount Py in the Y direction. Furthermore, the memory circuit 223a temporarily stores, for example, intermediate data in the light diffusion degree fine adjustment process described below. The memory circuit 223a may be substantially identical in configuration to the memory circuit 223 of the control device 200 according to the first embodiment.

[0141] The position calculation circuit 226 calculates the X-direction position x0 of the first slider S1 on the display area DA and the Y-direction position y0 of the second slider S2 on the display area DA on the light diffusion degree setting screen, which correspond to the light diffusion degree calculated by the light diffusion degree calculation circuit 222a. The position calculation circuit 226 is a component realized by, for example, a CPU of a smartphone, tablet, or the like that constitutes the control device 200a.

[0142] 21A and 21B are conceptual diagrams showing an example of a display mode of a light diffusion degree setting screen of the control device 200a according to the second embodiment.

[0143] The display panel 20 is provided with a display area DA that overlaps, in a plan view, with the detection area FA of the touch sensor 30. In the example shown in Figures 21A and 21B, similar to the first embodiment, a light distribution shape object OBJ is displayed on the light diffusion degree setting screen with its center point at the origin O (0, 0) of the XY plane, and a first slider S1 and a second slider S2 for setting the light diffusion degree of the lighting device 1 are arranged on the contour line of this light distribution shape object OBJ.

[0144] In the display mode of the light diffusion setting screen of the control device 200a according to the second embodiment, in addition to the display mode of the first embodiment shown in Figures 15A, 15B, 15C, and 15D, there are provided a toggle switch (fine-tuning switching object) TSW for selecting whether to enable (ON) or disable (OFF) the light diffusion fine-tuning process, a first fine-tuning button (first fine-tuning object) B1 for fine-tuning the light diffusion in the Dx direction (first direction) of the lighting device 1, and a second fine-tuning button (second fine-tuning object) B2 for fine-tuning the light diffusion in the Dy direction (second direction) of the lighting device 1.

[0145] As shown in Figures 21A and 21B, the first fine-tuning button B1 includes a first fine-tuning button (first fine-tuning object on the positive side) B1(+) for fine-tuning on the positive side in the Dx direction, and a first fine-tuning button (first fine-tuning object on the negative side) B1(-) for fine-tuning on the negative side.

[0146] In addition, as shown in Figures 21A and 21B, the second fine-tuning button B2 includes a second fine-tuning button (second fine-tuning object on the positive side) B2(+) for fine-tuning on the positive side in the Dy direction, and a second fine-tuning button (second fine-tuning object on the negative side) B2(-) for fine-tuning on the negative side.

[0147] The toggle switch TSW is, for example, a button (image) displayed as an icon that allows the user to select whether to enable (ON) or disable (OFF) the light diffusion fine-tuning process by touching and moving the toggle switch TSW displayed on the display area DA left or right.

[0148] In the example shown in FIGS. 21A and 21B, the toggle switch TSW is displayed in the upper right corner of the light diffusion setting screen.

[0149] The first fine-tuning button B1(+), the first fine-tuning button B1(-), the second fine-tuning button B2(+), and the second fine-tuning button B2(-) are hidden when the light diffusion degree fine-tuning process is disabled (OFF), as shown in Figure 21A.

[0150] In addition, the first fine-tuning button B1(+), the first fine-tuning button B1(-), the second fine-tuning button B2(+), and the second fine-tuning button B2(-) are displayed when the light diffusion degree fine-tuning process is enabled (ON), as shown in Figure 21B.

[0151] The first fine-tuning button B1(+) defines a fine-tuning amount (first-direction light diffusion degree fine-tuning amount) ΔSxf(+) that increases the horizontal diffusion degree Sx in the Dx direction (first direction). The fine-tuning amount ΔSxf(+) is set to, for example, the minimum value of the amount of change in the + direction in the light diffusion degree setting process (e.g., +1 [%]). The first fine-tuning button B1(+) is a button (image) displayed as an icon that allows the user to select the horizontal diffusion degree fine-tuning amount ΔSxf(+) to be added to the horizontal diffusion degree Sx by touching the first fine-tuning button B1(+) displayed in the display area DA.

[0152] Furthermore, the first fine-tuning button B1(-) defines a fine-tuning amount (first-direction light diffusion degree fine-tuning amount) ΔSxf(-) that decreases the horizontal diffusion degree Sx in the Dx direction (first direction). The horizontal diffusion degree fine-tuning amount ΔSxf(-) is set to, for example, the minimum value of the amount of change in the + direction in the light diffusion degree setting process (e.g., -1 [%]). The first fine-tuning button B1(-) is, for example, a button (image) displayed as an icon that allows the user to select the horizontal diffusion degree fine-tuning amount ΔSxf(-) to be added to the horizontal diffusion degree Sx by touching the first fine-tuning button B1(-) displayed in the display area DA.

[0153] In the example shown in Figures 21A and 21B, the first fine-tuning button B1(+) and the first fine-tuning button B1(-) are displayed side by side in the X direction below the XY plane on which the light distribution shape object OBJ is displayed, for example.

[0154] The second fine-tuning button B2(+) defines a fine-tuning amount (second-direction light diffusion degree fine-tuning amount) ΔSyf(+) that increases the vertical diffusion degree Sy in the Dy direction (second direction). The fine-tuning amount ΔSyf(+) is set to, for example, the minimum value of the amount of change in the + direction in the light diffusion degree setting process (e.g., +1 [%]). The second fine-tuning button B2(+) is a button (image) displayed as an icon that allows the user to select the fine-tuning amount ΔSyf(+) to be added to the vertical diffusion degree Sy by touching the second fine-tuning button B2(+) displayed in the display area DA.

[0155] Furthermore, the second fine-tuning button B2(-) defines a vertical diffusion fine-tuning amount (second-direction light diffusion fine-tuning amount) ΔSyf(-) that decreases the vertical diffusion level Sy in the Dy direction (second direction). The vertical diffusion fine-tuning amount ΔSyf(-) is set to, for example, the minimum value of the amount of change in the positive direction in the light diffusion level setting process (e.g., -1 [%]). The second fine-tuning button B2(-) is a button (image) displayed as an icon that allows the user to select the vertical diffusion fine-tuning amount ΔSyf(-) to be added to the vertical diffusion level Sy by touching the second fine-tuning button B2(-) displayed in the display area DA.

[0156] In the example shown in Figures 21A and 21B, the second fine-tuning button B2(+) and the second fine-tuning button B2(-) are displayed side by side in the Y direction, for example, on the right side of the XY plane on which the light distribution shape object OBJ is displayed.

[0157] The display positions of the first fine-tuning button B1 and the second fine-tuning button B2 on the light diffusion level setting screen are not limited to the examples shown in Figures 21A and 21B. The first fine-tuning button B1(+) and the first fine-tuning button B1(-) may be displayed side by side in the X direction on the light diffusion level setting screen. The second fine-tuning button B2(+) and the second fine-tuning button B2(-) may be displayed side by side in the Y direction on the light diffusion level setting screen.

[0158] The control device 200a of the lighting device 1 according to the second embodiment and the process of fine-tuning the light diffusion degree of the lighting device 1 in the lighting system will be described below.

[0159] FIG. 22 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a light diffusion degree fine adjustment process in the control device 200a of the lighting device 1 according to the second embodiment.

[0160] In the second embodiment, an example will be described in which the initial setting of the light diffusion degree setting processing screen shown in Fig. 17 is switched to a standby state for the light diffusion degree setting processing, and the light diffusion degree setting processing shown in Fig. 18 or 19 is executed, and then the light diffusion degree fine-tuning processing shown in Fig. 22 is executed. The light diffusion degree setting processing (step S100) shown in Fig. 22 corresponds to the light diffusion degree setting processing according to the first embodiment or the modified example of the first embodiment (Fig. 18 or Fig. 19).

[0161] In the following explanation, it is assumed that the light diffusion degree fine-tuning process is enabled (ON) in advance, but it is also possible that after executing the light diffusion degree setting process shown in Figure 18 or Figure 19, the user touches the toggle switch TSW and the light diffusion degree fine-tuning process is switched from disabled (OFF) to enabled (ON).

[0162] In the standby state for the light diffusion degree fine-tuning process after the light diffusion degree setting process (step S100), the control device 200a executes a touch detection process for the first fine-tuning button B1 (+) (step S201), a touch detection process for the first fine-tuning button B1 (-) (step S211), a touch detection process for the second fine-tuning button B2 (+) (step S221), and a touch detection process for the second fine-tuning button B2 (-) (step S231).

[0163] Specifically, when the first fine-tuning button B1(+) is touched (step S201; Yes), the process proceeds to step S202, and when the first fine-tuning button B1(+) is not touched (step S201; No), the process proceeds to step S211.

[0164] If the first fine adjustment button B1(-) is touched (step S211; Yes), the process proceeds to step S212, and if the first fine adjustment button B1(-) is not touched (step S211; No), the process proceeds to step S221.

[0165] If the second fine adjustment button B2(+) is touched (step S221; Yes), the process proceeds to step S222, and if the second fine adjustment button B2(+) is not touched (step S221; No), the process proceeds to step S231.

[0166] If the second fine adjustment button B2(-) is touched (step S231; Yes), the process proceeds to step S232, and if the second fine adjustment button B2(-) is not touched (step S231; No), the process returns to step S201.

[0167] When the first fine-tuning button B1(+) is touched (step S201; Yes), the light diffusion degree calculation circuit 222a reads out the horizontal diffusion degree fine-tuning amount ΔSxf(+) defined for the first fine-tuning button B1(+) from the storage circuit 223a (step S202), reads out the horizontal diffusion degree Sx before the touch stored in the storage circuit 223a (step S203), calculates the horizontal diffusion degree Sx after the touch (=Sx+ΔSxf(+)) from these, and updates the horizontal diffusion degree (step S204).The calculated horizontal diffusion degree Sx is then stored in the storage circuit 223a (step S205).

[0168] The position calculation circuit 226 uses the above equation (3) to calculate and update the X-direction position x0 of the first slider S1 on the display area DA after touching the first fine-tuning button B1(+) (step S206), and stores the updated X-direction position x0 in the memory circuit 223a (step S207).

[0169] Then, the display control circuit 231 reads out from the memory circuit 223a the horizontal diffusion degree Sx and the X-direction position x0 updated by the processing of steps S202 to S207 described above, and performs display control of the display panel 20 so as to reflect these in the shape of the light distribution shape object OBJ, the position of the first slider S1, and the display of the horizontal diffusion degree Sx (step S208).

[0170] In addition, the transmission / reception circuit 225 reads out the horizontal diffusion degree Sx stored in the memory circuit 223a (step S209), and transmits the first light diffusion degree information to the lighting device 1 using the read horizontal diffusion degree Sx as the Dx direction light diffusion degree S1x (step S210).

[0171] The electrode driving circuit 112 of the lighting device 1 stores the first light diffusion degree information (Dx direction light diffusion degree S1x) received from the control device 200a in the memory circuit 113 as second light diffusion degree information, and supplies driving voltages to each driving electrode 10, 13 of each liquid crystal cell 2 of the optical element 100 based on the second light diffusion degree information.

[0172] When the first fine-tuning button B1(-) is touched (step S211; Yes), the light diffusion calculation circuit 222a reads the horizontal diffusion fine-tuning amount ΔSxf(-) defined in the first fine-tuning button B1(-) from the memory circuit 223a (step S212), and further reads the horizontal diffusion Sx stored in the memory circuit 223a (step S213), calculates the horizontal diffusion Sx (= Sx + ΔSxf(-)) (step S214), and stores the calculated horizontal diffusion Sx in the memory circuit 223a (step S215).

[0173] The position calculation circuit 226 calculates the X-direction position x0 of the first slider S1 on the display area DA using the above equation (3) (step S216), and stores the calculated X-direction position x0 in the memory circuit 223a (step S217).

[0174] Then, the display control circuit 231 reads out the horizontal diffusion degree Sx and the X-direction position x0 calculated by the processing of steps S212 to S217 described above from the memory circuit 223a, and performs display control of the display panel 20 so as to reflect these in the shape of the light distribution shape object OBJ, the position of the first slider S1, and the display of the horizontal diffusion degree Sx (step S218).

[0175] The transmission / reception circuit 225 reads out the horizontal diffusion degree Sx stored in the memory circuit 223a (step S219), and transmits the first light diffusion degree information to the lighting device 1 using the read horizontal diffusion degree Sx as the Dx direction light diffusion degree S1x (step S220).

[0176] The electrode driving circuit 112 of the lighting device 1 stores the first light diffusion degree information (Dx direction light diffusion degree S1x) received from the control device 200a in the memory circuit 113 as second light diffusion degree information, and supplies driving voltages to each driving electrode 10, 13 of each liquid crystal cell 2 of the optical element 100 based on the second light diffusion degree information.

[0177] When the second fine-tuning button B2(+) is touched (step S221; Yes), the light diffusion calculation circuit 222a reads the vertical diffusion fine-tuning amount ΔSyf(+) defined in the second fine-tuning button B2(+) from the memory circuit 223a (step S222), and further reads the vertical diffusion Sy stored in the memory circuit 223a (step S223), calculates the vertical diffusion Sy (= Sy + ΔSyf(+)) (step S224), and stores the calculated vertical diffusion Sy in the memory circuit 223a (step S225).

[0178] The position calculation circuit 226 calculates the Y-direction position y0 of the second slider S2 on the display area DA using the above equation (6) (step S226), and stores the calculated Y-direction position y0 in the memory circuit 223a (step S227).

[0179] Then, the display control circuit 231 reads out the vertical diffusion degree Sy and Y-direction position y0 calculated by the processing of the above-mentioned steps S222 to S227 from the memory circuit 223a, and performs display control of the display panel 20 so as to reflect these in the shape of the light distribution shape object OBJ, the position of the second slider S2, and the display of the vertical diffusion degree Sy (step S228).

[0180] The transmission / reception circuit 225 reads out the vertical diffusion degree Sy stored in the memory circuit 223a (step S229), and transmits the first light diffusion degree information to the lighting device 1 using the read vertical diffusion degree Sy as the Dy-direction light diffusion degree S1y (step S230).

[0181] The electrode driving circuit 112 of the lighting device 1 stores the first light diffusion degree information (Dy direction light diffusion degree S1y) received from the control device 200a in the memory circuit 113 as second light diffusion degree information, and supplies driving voltages to each driving electrode 10, 13 of each liquid crystal cell 2 of the optical element 100 based on the second light diffusion degree information.

[0182] When the second fine-tuning button B2(-) is touched (step S231; Yes), the light diffusion calculation circuit 222a reads the vertical diffusion fine-tuning amount ΔSyf(-) defined in the second fine-tuning button B2(-) from the memory circuit 223a (step S232), and further reads the vertical diffusion Sy stored in the memory circuit 223a (step S233), calculates the vertical diffusion Sy (= Sy + ΔSyf(-)) (step S234), and stores the calculated vertical diffusion Sy in the memory circuit 223a (step S235).

[0183] The position calculation circuit 226 calculates the Y-direction position y0 of the second slider S2 on the display area DA using the above equation (6) (step S236), and stores the calculated Y-direction position y0 in the memory circuit 223a (step S237).

[0184] Then, the display control circuit 231 reads out the vertical diffusion degree Sy and the Y-direction position y0 calculated by the processing of the above-mentioned steps S232 to S237 from the memory circuit 223a, and performs display control of the display panel 20 so as to reflect these in the shape of the light distribution shape object OBJ, the position of the second slider S2, and the display of the vertical diffusion degree Sy (step S238).

[0185] The transmission / reception circuit 225 reads out the vertical diffusion degree Sy stored in the memory circuit 223a (step S239), and transmits the first light diffusion degree information to the lighting device 1 using the read vertical diffusion degree Sy as the Dy-direction light diffusion degree S1y (step S240).

[0186] The electrode driving circuit 112 of the lighting device 1 stores the first light diffusion degree information (Dy direction light diffusion degree S1y) received from the control device 200a in the memory circuit 113 as second light diffusion degree information, and supplies driving voltages to each driving electrode 10, 13 of each liquid crystal cell 2 of the optical element 100 based on the second light diffusion degree information.

[0187] In the light diffusion degree fine-adjustment process according to the second embodiment described above, the horizontal diffusion degree Sx and the vertical diffusion degree Sy can be finely adjusted for the light diffusion degree setting result obtained by the light diffusion degree setting process shown in Fig. 18 or 19. This enables fine adjustment of the light diffusion degree, which is difficult to achieve by moving (dragging) the first slider S1 or the second slider S2 on the light diffusion degree setting screen.

[0188] In the above-described second embodiment, the horizontal diffusion degree fine-tuning amount ΔSxf(+) and the vertical diffusion degree fine-tuning amount ΔSyf(+) are set to the minimum value of the change in the positive direction in the light diffusion degree setting process (e.g., +1 [%]), and the horizontal diffusion degree fine-tuning amount ΔSxf(-) and the vertical diffusion degree fine-tuning amount ΔSyf(-) are set to the minimum value of the change in the negative direction in the light diffusion degree setting process (e.g., −1 [%]). That is, for example, each time the first fine-tuning button B1(+) is pressed once, the first slider S1 on the display screen moves 1% to the right, and the light distribution state of the lighting device 1a is expanded by 1% in the horizontal direction. Therefore, if a fine adjustment of +3% in the x direction is desired, the first fine-tuning button B1(+) can be pressed three times. It goes without saying that pressing the fine-tuning button multiple times enables adjustments not only of a few percent but also of over ten percent to several tens of percent.

[0189] Furthermore, the values ​​of the horizontal diffusion degree fine-tuning amount ΔSxf(+), vertical diffusion degree fine-tuning amount ΔSyf(+), horizontal diffusion degree fine-tuning amount ΔSxf(−), and vertical diffusion degree fine-tuning amount ΔSyf(−) are not limited to ±1%.

[0190] Specifically, the horizontal diffusion fine-tuning amount ΔSxf(+) and the vertical diffusion fine-tuning amount ΔSyf(+) may be set to a value smaller than the minimum value of the change in the + direction in the light diffusion setting process (for example, +0.1 [%]), and the horizontal diffusion fine-tuning amount ΔSxf(-) and the vertical diffusion fine-tuning amount ΔSyf(-) may be set to a value smaller than the minimum value of the change in the - direction in the light diffusion setting process (for example, -0.1 [%]).

[0191] In this case, when the cumulative value of the horizontal diffusion fine-tuning amount ΔSxf(+) (or the vertical diffusion fine-tuning amount ΔSyf(+)) reaches the minimum value of the change in the + direction in the light diffusion setting process (for example, +1 [%]), the shape of the light distribution shape object OBJ and the position of the first slider S1 (or the second slider S2) may be reflected on the light diffusion setting screen.

[0192] In addition, when the cumulative value of the horizontal diffusion fine-tuning amount ΔSxf(-) (or the vertical diffusion fine-tuning amount ΔSyf(-)) reaches the minimum value of the change in the negative direction in the light diffusion setting process (for example, -1 [%]), the shape of the light distribution shape object OBJ and the display of the position of the first slider S1 (or the second slider S2) may be reflected on the light diffusion setting screen.

[0193] Although preferred embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, the present disclosure is not limited to such embodiments. The contents disclosed in the embodiments are merely examples, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the present disclosure. Appropriate modifications made within the scope of the present disclosure also naturally fall within the technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0194] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 lighting device 2 liquid crystal cell 2_1 first liquid crystal cell 2_2 second liquid crystal cell 2_3 third liquid crystal cell 2_4 fourth liquid crystal cell 4 light source 5 first substrate 6 second substrate 7 sealing material 8 liquid crystal layer 9 base material 10, 10a, 10b drive electrode 11 first metal wiring 11a, 11b, 11c, 11d metal wiring 12 base material 13, 13a, 13b drive electrode 14 second metal wiring 14a, 14b metal wiring 15a, 15b conductive portion 16a, 16b connection terminal portion 17 liquid crystal molecule 18 alignment film 19 alignment film 20 display panel 30 touch sensor 31 detection element 100 optical element 111 transmission / reception circuit 112 electrode drive circuit 113 memory circuit 200, 200a control device 211 Detection circuit 212 Position extraction circuit 221 Movement amount calculation circuit 222, 222a Light diffusion degree calculation circuit 223, 223a Memory circuit 224 Position conversion circuit 225 Transmission / reception circuit 226 Position calculation circuit 231 Display control circuit 300 Communication means AA Effective area B1 First fine-tuning button (first fine-tuning object) B1(+) First fine-tuning button (first fine-tuning object) B1(-) First fine-tuning button (first fine-tuning object) B2 Second fine-tuning button (second fine-tuning object) B2(+) Second fine-tuning button (second fine-tuning object) B2(-) Second fine-tuning button (second fine-tuning object) DA Display area FA Detection area GA Surrounding area OBJ Light distribution shape object Px Reference movement amount (X direction) Py Reference movement amount (Y direction) S1 First slider (object for setting the first light diffusion degree) S2 Second slider (object for setting the second light diffusion degree) Sx Horizontal diffusion degree S1x, S2x Dx direction light diffusion degree Sy Vertical diffusion degree S1y, S2y Dy direction light diffusion degree TA1 First area TA2 Second area TSW Toggle switch (fine adjustment switching object) ΔSxf(+), ΔSxf(-), ΔSyf(+), ΔSyf(-) Fine adjustment amount

Claims

1. A control device for a lighting device capable of controlling a light distribution state of light emitted from a light source in two directions, a first direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction, a touch sensor having a detection area in which a plurality of detection elements are provided; a display panel having a display area overlapping a detection area of ​​the touch sensor in a plan view; Equipped with a light diffusion degree setting screen for executing a process of setting a light diffusion degree of the lighting device is displayed in a display area of ​​the display panel; The light diffusion degree setting screen is An X-direction corresponding to the first direction, a Y-direction corresponding to the second direction, and an XY plane having an origin at a predetermined position on the light diffusion degree setting screen are defined; a light distribution shape object having a center point at the origin of the XY plane; a first light diffusion degree setting object having a center point at an intersection point between an X-axis of the XY plane and a contour line of the light distribution shape object; a second light diffusion degree setting object having a center point at an intersection point between a Y axis of the XY plane and a contour line of the light distribution shape object; It is provided with A control device for lighting devices.

2. The light diffusion degree setting screen is when a touch state on the first light diffusion level setting object is maintained, a width of the light distribution shape object in the X-axis direction is changed in accordance with a movement of the first light diffusion level setting object in the X-axis direction, When a touch state on the second light diffusion level setting object is maintained, a width of the light distribution shape object in the Y-axis direction is changed in accordance with a movement of the second light diffusion level setting object in the Y-axis direction. The control device for a lighting device according to claim 1 .

3. transmitting the light diffusion degree set in the light diffusion degree setting process to the lighting device as light diffusion degree information; The control device for a lighting device according to claim 2.

4. when the touch state on the first light diffusion level setting object is released, transmitting light diffusion level information corresponding to a position of the first light diffusion level setting object in the X direction to the lighting device; when the touch state on the second light diffusion level setting object is released, transmitting light diffusion level information corresponding to a position of the second light diffusion level setting object in the Y direction to the lighting device; The control device for a lighting device according to claim 3.

5. transmitting light diffusion level information to the lighting device in accordance with a movement of the first light diffusion level setting object in the X direction when a touch state on the first light diffusion level setting object is maintained; transmitting light diffusion level information to the lighting device in accordance with the movement of the second light diffusion level setting object in the Y direction when a touch state on the second light diffusion level setting object is maintained; The control device for a lighting device according to claim 3.

6. The light diffusion degree setting screen is a fine adjustment switching object for selecting whether to enable or disable a fine adjustment process of a light diffusion degree of the lighting device; a first fine-tuning object for fine-tuning a light diffusion degree of the lighting device in the first direction; a second fine-tuning object for fine-tuning a light diffusion degree of the lighting device in the second direction; is established, The first fine-tuning object and the second fine-tuning object are The display is displayed when the light diffusion degree fine-adjustment process is enabled, and is not displayed when the light diffusion degree fine-adjustment process is disabled. The control device for a lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The first fine-tuning object defines a fine-tuning amount of a first direction light diffusion degree of the lighting device, The second fine-tuning object defines a fine-tuning amount of a second direction light diffusion degree of the lighting device, When a touch on the first fine-tuning object is detected, light diffusion degree information obtained by adding the first direction light diffusion degree fine-tuning amount to the light diffusion degree in the first direction is transmitted to the lighting device; when a touch on the second fine-tuning object is detected, light diffusion degree information obtained by adding the second direction light diffusion degree fine-tuning amount to the light diffusion degree in the second direction is transmitted to the lighting device; The control device for a lighting device according to claim 6.

8. the first-direction light diffusion degree fine-adjustment amount is set to a minimum value of a change amount of the light diffusion degree in the first direction in the light diffusion degree setting process, The second direction light diffusion degree fine adjustment amount is set to a minimum value of the amount of change in the light diffusion degree in the second direction in the light diffusion degree setting process. The control device for a lighting device according to claim 7.

9. the first-direction light diffusion degree fine-adjustment amount is set to a value smaller than a minimum value of a change amount of the light diffusion degree in the first direction in the light diffusion degree setting process, The second direction light diffusion degree fine adjustment amount is set to a value smaller than a minimum value of a change amount of the light diffusion degree in the second direction in the light diffusion degree setting process. The control device for a lighting device according to claim 7.

10. The first fine-tuning object is a first fine-tuning object on a positive side, which defines a first direction light diffusion degree fine-tuning amount that increases in the first direction; a negative first fine-tuning object having a first direction light diffusion degree fine-tuning amount that decreases in the first direction defined therein; Including, The second fine-tuning object is a positive side second fine-tuning object that defines a second direction light diffusion degree fine-tuning amount that increases in the second direction; a negative second fine-tuning object having a second direction light diffusion degree fine-tuning amount that decreases in the second direction defined therein; Including, The control device for a lighting device according to claim 7.

11. The light diffusion degree setting screen is a first fine-tuning object on the positive side and a first fine-tuning object on the negative side are arranged side by side in the first direction; a positive-side second fine-tuning object and a negative-side second fine-tuning object are arranged side by side in the second direction; The control device for a lighting device according to claim 10.

12. an illumination device including a light source and an optical element provided on an optical axis of the light source and capable of controlling a light distribution state of light emitted from the light source in two directions, a first direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction; A control device that controls the lighting device to change the light distribution state; Equipped with The control device includes: a touch sensor having a detection area in which a plurality of detection elements are provided; a display panel having a display area overlapping a detection area of ​​the touch sensor in a plan view; Equipped with a light diffusion degree setting screen for executing a process of setting a light diffusion degree of the lighting device is displayed in a display area of ​​the display panel; The light diffusion degree setting screen is An X-direction corresponding to the first direction, a Y-direction corresponding to the second direction, and an XY plane having an origin at a predetermined position on the light diffusion degree setting screen are defined; a light distribution shape object having a center point at the origin of the XY plane; a first light diffusion degree setting object having a center point at an intersection point between an X-axis of the XY plane and a contour line of the light distribution shape object; a second light diffusion degree setting object having a center point at an intersection point between a Y axis of the XY plane and a contour line of the light distribution shape object; It is provided with Lighting system.

13. The light diffusion degree setting screen is when a touch state on the first light diffusion level setting object is maintained, a width of the light distribution shape object in the X-axis direction is changed in accordance with a movement of the first light diffusion level setting object in the X-axis direction, When a touch state on the second light diffusion level setting object is maintained, a width of the light distribution shape object in the Y-axis direction is changed in accordance with a movement of the second light diffusion level setting object in the Y-axis direction.

13. A lighting system according to claim 12.

14. The control device includes: transmitting the light diffusion degree set in the light diffusion degree setting process to the lighting device as first light diffusion degree information; The lighting device includes: At the time of startup, a final value of the light diffusion degree at the time of the previous energization is transmitted to the control device as second light diffusion degree information.

14. The lighting system of claim 13.

15. The control device includes: when a touch state on the first light diffusion level setting object is released, transmitting first light diffusion level information corresponding to a position of the first light diffusion level setting object in the X direction to the lighting device; when the touch state on the second light diffusion level setting object is released, first light diffusion level information corresponding to a position of the second light diffusion level setting object in the Y direction is transmitted to the lighting device.

15. A lighting system according to claim 14.

16. The control device includes: when a touch state on the first light diffusion level setting object is maintained, transmitting first light diffusion level information to the lighting device in accordance with the movement of the first light diffusion level setting object in the X direction; when a touch state on the second light diffusion level setting object is maintained, transmitting first light diffusion level information to the lighting device in accordance with the movement of the second light diffusion level setting object in the Y direction; 15. A lighting system according to claim 14.

17. The light diffusion degree setting screen is a fine adjustment switching object for selecting whether to enable or disable a fine adjustment process of a light diffusion degree of the lighting device; a first fine-tuning object for fine-tuning a light diffusion degree of the lighting device in the first direction; a second fine-tuning object for fine-tuning a light diffusion degree of the lighting device in the second direction; is established, The first fine-tuning object and the second fine-tuning object are The display is displayed when the light diffusion degree fine-adjustment process is enabled, and is not displayed when the light diffusion degree fine-adjustment process is disabled.

17. A lighting system according to any one of claims 12 to 16.

18. The first fine-tuning object defines a fine-tuning amount of a first direction light diffusion degree of the lighting device, The second fine-tuning object defines a fine-tuning amount of a second direction light diffusion degree of the lighting device, The control device includes: when a touch on the first fine-tuning object is detected, transmitting first light diffusion degree information obtained by adding the first direction light diffusion degree fine-tuning amount to the light diffusion degree in the first direction to the lighting device; when a touch on the second fine-tuning object is detected, first light diffusion degree information obtained by adding the second direction light diffusion degree fine-tuning amount to the light diffusion degree in the second direction is transmitted to the lighting device; 20. The lighting system of claim 17.

19. the first-direction light diffusion degree fine-adjustment amount is set to a minimum value of a change amount of the light diffusion degree in the first direction in the light diffusion degree setting process, The second direction light diffusion degree fine adjustment amount is set to a minimum value of the amount of change in the light diffusion degree in the second direction in the light diffusion degree setting process.

20. The lighting system of claim 18.

20. the first-direction light diffusion degree fine-adjustment amount is set to a value smaller than a minimum value of a change amount of the light diffusion degree in the first direction in the light diffusion degree setting process, The second direction light diffusion degree fine adjustment amount is set to a value smaller than a minimum value of a change amount of the light diffusion degree in the second direction in the light diffusion degree setting process.

20. The lighting system of claim 18.

21. The first fine-tuning object is a first fine-tuning object on a positive side, which defines a first direction light diffusion degree fine-tuning amount that increases in the first direction; a negative first fine-tuning object having a first direction light diffusion degree fine-tuning amount that decreases in the first direction defined therein; Including, The second fine-tuning object is a positive side second fine-tuning object that defines a second direction light diffusion degree fine-tuning amount that increases in the second direction; a negative second fine-tuning object having a second direction light diffusion degree fine-tuning amount that decreases in the second direction defined therein; Including, 20. The lighting system of claim 18.

22. The light diffusion degree setting screen is a first fine-tuning object on the positive side and a first fine-tuning object on the negative side are arranged side by side in the first direction; a positive-side second fine-tuning object and a negative-side second fine-tuning object are arranged side by side in the second direction; 22. The lighting system of claim 21.