Lighting fixture and control method

Abstract

The problem of the present disclosure is to provide a lighting fixture capable of improving a relaxation effect due to the fluctuation of the light intensity of a light-emitting unit. The lighting fixture is provided with a light-emitting unit and a control unit. The light-emitting unit includes a light source. The control unit controls the light-emitting unit. A period during which the control unit dynamically changes the light intensity (L1) of the light output from the light-emitting unit includes a first period (T1) and a second period (T2). An average value (La2) of the light intensity (L1) of the light-emitting unit in the second period (T2) is greater than the average value (La1) of the light intensity (L1) of the light-emitting unit in the first period (T1). The maximum value of a moving average of the light intensity (L1) of the light emitting unit in the second period (T2) is greater than the maximum value of the moving average of the light intensity (L1) of the light emitting unit in the first period (T1).

Description

Lighting equipment and control method

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a lighting device and a control method, and more particularly to a lighting device and a control method that dynamically change the light intensity of a light-emitting unit.

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a lighting device (lighting fixture) that can be turned on in a fluctuating lighting mode. In the lighting device of Patent Document 1, in the fluctuating lighting mode, a control unit of the lighting device varies the intensity of at least one of the luminous flux value and color temperature of the illumination light.

[0003] In the lighting device disclosed in Patent Document 1, the intensity of the luminous flux value or color temperature of the illumination light in the fluctuating lighting mode is monotonous, which may result in the relaxation effect not being fully exerted.

[0004] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2023-48713

[0005] The present disclosure aims to provide a lighting device and a control method that can improve the relaxation effect caused by fluctuations in the light intensity of the light-emitting unit.

[0006] A lighting device according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a light-emitting unit and a control unit. The light-emitting unit includes a light source. The control unit controls the light-emitting unit. A period during which the control unit dynamically changes the light intensity of light output from the light-emitting unit includes a first period and a second period. The average value of the light intensity of the light-emitting unit in the second period is greater than the average value of the light intensity of the light-emitting unit in the first period. The maximum value of the moving average of the light intensity of the light-emitting unit in the second period is greater than the maximum value of the moving average of the light intensity of the light-emitting unit in the first period.

[0007] A lighting device according to another aspect of the present disclosure includes a light-emitting unit and a control unit. The light-emitting unit includes a light source. The control unit controls the light-emitting unit. A period during which the control unit dynamically changes the light intensity of the light output from the light-emitting unit includes a first period and a second period. With regard to the light intensity of the light-emitting unit, a total sum of component intensities of light components with frequencies of 1 Hz or higher in a second interval including at least a portion of the second period is greater than a total sum of component intensities of light components with frequencies of 1 Hz or higher in a first interval including at least a portion of the first period. The maximum value of the moving average of the light intensity of the light-emitting unit in the second period is greater than the maximum value of the moving average of the light intensity of the light-emitting unit in the first period.

[0008] A control method according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a control method for controlling a light-emitting unit including a light source. A period during which the light intensity of light output from the light-emitting unit is dynamically changed by the control method includes a first period and a second period. The average value of the light intensity of the light-emitting unit in the second period is greater than the average value of the light intensity of the light-emitting unit in the first period. The maximum value of the moving average of the light intensity of the light-emitting unit in the second period is greater than the maximum value of the moving average of the light intensity of the light-emitting unit in the first period.

[0009] A control method according to another aspect of the present disclosure is a control method for controlling a light-emitting unit including a light source. A period during which the light intensity of light output from the light-emitting unit is dynamically changed by the control method includes a first period and a second period. With regard to the light intensity of the light-emitting unit, a sum of component intensities of light components with frequencies of 1 Hz or more in a second interval including at least a portion of the second period is greater than a sum of component intensities of light components with frequencies of 1 Hz or more in a first interval including at least a portion of the first period. A maximum value of a moving average of the light intensity of the light-emitting unit in the second period is greater than a maximum value of a moving average of the light intensity of the light-emitting unit in the first period.

[0010] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a lighting fixture according to a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a graph showing a portion of the waveform of a light output pattern of the lighting fixture according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3A is a graph showing the frequency distribution of the light output pattern of the lighting fixture according to the first embodiment in a first period. FIG. 3B is a graph showing the frequency distribution of the light output pattern of the lighting fixture according to the second embodiment in a second period. FIG. 4 is a graph showing a portion of the waveform of a moving average of the light output pattern of the lighting fixture according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a graph showing a portion of the waveform of the light output pattern of the lighting fixture according to the first embodiment, which is different from that of FIG. 2. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing a method of calculating the frequency distribution of the lighting fixture according to the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a graph showing a portion of the waveform of a light output pattern of a lighting fixture according to a second embodiment. FIG. 8 is a graph showing a portion of the waveform of a moving average of the light output pattern of a lighting fixture according to a third embodiment. FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a lighting system including a plurality of lighting fixtures according to a fourth embodiment.

[0011] The lighting fixtures according to the first to fourth embodiments will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that the drawings referred to in the following first to fourth embodiments are all schematic drawings, and the ratios of the sizes and thicknesses of the components in the drawings do not necessarily reflect the actual dimensional ratios.

[0012] (Embodiment 1) 1. Lighting Fixture The lighting fixture 10 is, for example, a light stand or a spotlight. Note that the lighting fixture 10 is not limited to a light stand or a spotlight, and may be any lighting fixture, such as a ceiling light.

[0013] As shown in FIG. 1 , lighting device 10 includes control unit 11 , storage unit 12 , and light-emitting unit 21 .

[0014] (1) Control Unit The control unit 11 controls the lighting of the light-emitting unit 21. More specifically, the control unit 11 controls the light-emitting unit 21 so that the light intensity L1 of the light output from the light-emitting unit 21 (hereinafter abbreviated as "light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21") changes dynamically. More specifically, the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 changes dynamically as shown in the light output pattern 110 illustrated in FIG. 2. Here, "dynamic change in the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21" refers to a change in the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 over time. The change in the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 is a periodic or aperiodic repetition of increases and decreases in the light intensity L1, e.g., a so-called fluctuation change. The light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 is, for example, the brightness of the light-emitting surface of the light-emitting unit 21. The control unit 11 outputs a dimming signal based on the light control pattern to the light-emitting unit 21. The dimming signal is, for example, a voltage value to be applied to the light source 22 of the light emitting unit 21, and is generated by PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) control.

[0015] The light control pattern is, for example, data indicating the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 at each time. The light control pattern is generated based on a plurality of partial patterns (two in FIG. 2 ). The partial patterns are stored in, for example, the storage unit 12.

[0016] (2) Storage Unit The storage unit 12 stores a plurality of partial patterns for generating a light control pattern. The control unit 11 generates a light control pattern, for example, by combining a plurality of partial patterns of finite length stored in the storage unit 12.

[0017] Each of the plurality of partial patterns includes, as a part or all, a periodic waveform such as a sine wave, a triangular wave, or a rectangular wave. Furthermore, each of the plurality of partial patterns includes, as a part or all, a waveform that is a combination of a plurality of periodic waveforms with different frequencies. Note that each of the plurality of partial patterns may include, as a part thereof, a waveform in which the light intensity L1 does not change, or a waveform in which the light intensity L1 changes linearly.

[0018] (3) Light-Emitting Unit As shown in FIG. 1 , the light-emitting unit 21 includes a light source 22. The light source 22 is, for example, an LED light source that emits warm light. The light-emitting unit 21 changes the light intensity L1 of the output light output from the light source 22 based on the control of the control unit 11. For example, the light-emitting unit 21 outputs light when a voltage indicated by a dimming signal output by the control unit 11 is applied to the light source 22. As a result, the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 changes based on the light control pattern, as shown in the light output pattern 110 (see FIG. 2 ).

[0019] (4) Other Configurations of the Lighting Fixture The lighting fixture 10 includes a computer system. The computer system is primarily composed of a processor and memory as hardware. The functions of the lighting fixture 10 of the present disclosure are realized by the processor executing a program stored in the computer system's memory. The program may be pre-stored in the computer system's memory, provided via a telecommunications line, or provided on a non-transitory recording medium readable by the computer system, such as a memory card, optical disk, or hard disk drive. The processor of the computer system is composed of one or more electronic circuits, including a semiconductor integrated circuit (IC) or a large-scale integrated circuit (LSI). The integrated circuits, such as ICs and LSIs, are referred to by different names depending on the degree of integration, and include integrated circuits called system LSIs, very large-scale integrations (VLSIs), or ultra-large-scale integrations (ULSIs). Furthermore, field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), which are programmed after the LSI is manufactured, or logic devices that allow the reconfiguration of internal connections or circuit partitions within the LSI, can also be used as processors. The electronic circuits may be integrated into one chip or distributed across multiple chips. The chips may be integrated into one device or distributed across multiple devices. The computer system referred to here includes a microcontroller having one or more processors and one or more memories. Therefore, the microcontroller is also composed of one or more electronic circuits including a semiconductor integrated circuit or a large-scale integrated circuit.

[0020] Furthermore, it is not essential for lighting device 10 that multiple functions are integrated into a single housing, and the components of lighting device 10 may be distributed across multiple housings. Furthermore, at least some of the functions of lighting device 10, for example, some of the functions of control unit 11, may be realized by the cloud (cloud computing) or the like.

[0021] Conversely, at least some of the functions of lighting device 10 that are distributed across multiple components in embodiment 1 may be integrated into a single housing.

[0022] 2. Light Emission Control by the Control Unit The control of the light emitting unit 21 by the control unit 11 will now be described in more detail.

[0023] (1) Overview of Light Output Pattern The control unit 11 generates a light control pattern so that the light output pattern 110 shown in FIG. 2 satisfies the following conditions.

[0024] The light output period during which controller 11 causes light-emitting unit 21 to emit light according to the light control pattern includes a plurality of first periods T1 (only one of which is shown in FIG. 2 ) and a plurality of second periods T2 (only one of which is shown in FIG. 2 ). Thus, light output pattern 110 includes a plurality of first periods T1 and a plurality of second periods T2. Here, in light output pattern 110, each of the plurality of first periods T1 does not overlap with any of the remaining first periods T1 or the plurality of second periods T2. Similarly, in light output pattern 110, each of the plurality of second periods T2 does not overlap with any of the remaining second periods T2 or the plurality of first periods T1.

[0025] The length of each of the first period T1 and the second period T2 is equal to the reference period length. The reference period length is 5 seconds or more and 15 seconds or less. For example, in the light output pattern 110 shown in FIG. 2, the reference period length is 10 seconds. That is, in the light output pattern 110, the length of each of the first period T1 and the second period T2 is 10 seconds.

[0026] In the following description, a portion of the light output pattern 110 that corresponds one-to-one to each of the plurality of first periods T1 will be referred to as a first pattern 111. Furthermore, a portion of the light output pattern 110 that corresponds one-to-one to each of the plurality of second periods T2 will be referred to as a second pattern 112. The first pattern 111 and the second pattern 112 shown in FIG. 2 are waveforms in which the light intensity L1 changes non-periodically, so-called fluctuating changes. The first pattern 111 and the second pattern 112 may be waveforms in which the light intensity L1 changes periodically, or may include portions where the light intensity L1 does not change or where it changes linearly.

[0027] Here, the multiple first patterns 111 are not necessarily identical to one another. For example, if the light output pattern 110 includes three first periods T1, the three first patterns 111 included in the light output pattern 110 may all be different, two specific patterns may be the same, or all may be the same. Furthermore, the multiple second patterns 112 are not necessarily identical to one another. Similarly, in this case, for example, if the light output pattern 110 includes three second periods T2, the three second patterns 112 included in the light output pattern 110 may all be different, two specific patterns may be the same, or all may be the same.

[0028] The light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 in the first period T1 and the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 in the second period T2 satisfy the first and second conditions shown below. Furthermore, the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 in the first period T1 and the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 in the second period T2 satisfy the third condition shown below.

[0029] (2) Light Output As a first condition, the average value La2 of the light intensity L1 in each of the plurality of second time periods T2 is greater than the average value La1 of the light intensity L1 in each of the plurality of first time periods T1, as shown in Fig. 2. As a result, the average light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 differs between the second time period T2 and the first time period T1, and therefore, a different impression is given to people in the space illuminated by the lighting device 10 in each of the first time period T1 and the second time period T2.

[0030] Here, the average value La2 of the light intensity L1 in the second period T2 is preferably 1.1 times or more the average value La1 of the light intensity L1 in the first period T1. This gives a different impression to the fluctuations of the light intensity L1 in the second period T2 than to the fluctuations of the light intensity L1 in the first period T1. Therefore, in the lighting device 10, the light output pattern 110 exhibits complex fluctuations rather than monotonous fluctuations, thereby improving the relaxation effect brought about by the fluctuations of the light intensity L1. Furthermore, the average value La2 of the light intensity L1 in the second period T2 is more preferably 1.3 times or more the average value La1 of the light intensity L1 in the first period T1. This makes it easier to recognize the change in the average light intensity L1 over time in the light output pattern 110. This therefore further improves the relaxation effect brought about by the fluctuations of the light intensity L1 in the lighting device 10. Furthermore, it is more preferable that the average value La2 of the light intensity L1 in the second time period T2 is 1.5 times or more the average value La1 of the light intensity L1 in the first time period T1, thereby making the change in the average light intensity L1 of the light output pattern 110 over time more noticeable, and further improving the relaxation effect brought about by the fluctuations in the light intensity L1.

[0031] (3) Frequency (3.1) Relationship between frequencies of the first period and the second period As a second condition, as shown in Figures 3A and 3B, the total component intensity of light components with frequencies of 1 Hz or more in the conversion window 132 (see Figure 6) including the second period T2 is greater than the total component intensity of light components with frequencies of 1 Hz or more in the conversion window 131 (see Figure 6) including the first period T1.

[0032] The second condition will be described in more detail below.

[0033] 3A is a graph showing a frequency distribution 121 of the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 during the first period T1. More specifically, the frequency distribution 121 shown in FIG. 3A is a frequency distribution within a conversion window 131 (see FIG. 6 ) that includes the first period T1. The frequency distribution 121 is the component intensity (amplitude of the sine wave component) for each sine wave frequency when the waveform within the conversion window 131 of the first pattern 111 is represented as a composite of one or more sine wave light components. The relationship between the first pattern 111, the conversion window 131, and the frequency distribution 121 will be described in detail below.

[0034] 3B is a graph showing a frequency distribution 122 of the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 during the second period T2. More specifically, the frequency distribution 122 shown in FIG. 3B is a frequency distribution within a conversion window 132 (see FIG. 6 ) that includes the second period T2. The frequency distribution 122 is the component intensity for each frequency of a sine wave when the waveform within the conversion window 132 of the second pattern 112 is displayed as a composite of one or more sine waves. The relationship between the second pattern 112, the conversion window 132, and the frequency distribution 122 will be described in detail below.

[0035] Here, each of the frequency distributions 121 and 122 is normalized so that the integral value of the light components with frequencies equal to or greater than 0 Hz, i.e., the total value of the component intensities for all frequencies, is a predetermined value. In other words, the component intensity for each frequency is proportional to the ratio of the light intensity of the light component at that frequency to the light intensity L1.

[0036] As a second condition, the sum of the component intensities of the light components with frequencies of 1 Hz or more in the conversion window 132 including the second period T2 is greater than the sum of the component intensities of the light components with frequencies of 1 Hz or more in the conversion window 131 including the first period T1.

[0037] The sum of the component intensities of light components with frequencies of 1 Hz or higher in the conversion window 131 including the first period T1 is, for example, an integral value S1 having an integration range of 1 Hz or higher for the frequency distribution 121, and is the area of ​​the region indicated by dots in Fig. 3A . The sum of the component intensities of light components with frequencies of 1 Hz or higher in the conversion window 132 including the second period T2 is, for example, an integral value S2 having an integration range of 1 Hz or higher for the frequency distribution 122, and is the area of ​​the region indicated by dots in Fig. 3B . That is, the integral value S2 having an integration range of 1 Hz or higher for the frequency distribution 122 is greater than the integral value S1 having an integration range of 1 Hz or higher for the frequency distribution 121. In other words, the proportion of one or more light components with frequencies of 1 Hz or higher in the light intensity L1 is greater in the second period T2 than in the first period T1.

[0038] The total component intensity of light components with frequencies of 1 Hz or higher in the conversion window 131 including the first period T1 may be, for example, the sum of the component intensities of one or more light components corresponding to one or more peaks with frequencies of 1 Hz or higher in the frequency distribution 121. If the frequency distribution 121 has one peak with frequencies of 1 Hz or higher, the total component intensity of light components with frequencies of 1 Hz or higher is the component intensity of the light component corresponding to that peak. Similarly, the total component intensity of light components with frequencies of 1 Hz or higher in the conversion window 132 including the second period T2 may be, for example, the sum of the component intensities of one or more light components corresponding to one or more peaks with frequencies of 1 Hz or higher in the frequency distribution 122. If the frequency distribution 122 has one peak with frequencies of 1 Hz or higher, the total component intensity of light components with frequencies of 1 Hz or higher is the component intensity of the light component corresponding to that peak.

[0039] When light intensity L1 of lighting device 10 changes according to light output pattern 110 that satisfies the second condition, the fluctuation of light intensity L1 of light-emitting unit 21 in second time period T2 has a higher proportion of components that change at 1 Hz or higher than the fluctuation of light intensity L1 of light-emitting unit 21 in first time period T1. In other words, light intensity L1 of light-emitting unit 21 tends to change more rapidly in second time period T2 than in first time period T1.

[0040] (3.2) Details of frequency in the first period and the second period Note that the frequency distribution 121 of the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 in the first period T1 and the frequency distribution 122 of the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 in the second period T2 may have the following waveforms.

[0041] The upper limit frequency f2 of frequency distribution 122 is higher than the upper limit frequency f1 of frequency distribution 121. Here, the upper limit frequencies f1 and f2 refer to frequencies that satisfy the following condition: In frequency distribution 121, the component intensity of light components with frequencies higher than the upper limit frequency f1 is 30% or less of the average component intensity of light components with frequencies equal to or lower than the upper limit frequency f1.

[0042] Here, the average value of the component intensities of light components with frequencies equal to or less than the upper limit frequency f1 refers to the component intensity of the light component corresponding to a single peak in the frequency distribution 121 whose frequency is less than the upper limit frequency f1. Furthermore, the average value of the component intensities of light components with frequencies equal to or less than the upper limit frequency f1 refers to the average value of the component intensities of multiple light components corresponding to a plurality of peaks in the frequency distribution 121 whose frequency is less than the upper limit frequency f1. The average value of the component intensities of light components with frequencies equal to or less than the upper limit frequency f1 may be calculated by dividing the integral of the frequency distribution 121, which is the integral range from 0 Hz to the upper limit frequency f1, by the value of the upper limit frequency f1. Furthermore, the component intensities of components with frequencies greater than the upper limit frequency f1 in the frequency distribution 121 may be zero, i.e., the first pattern 111 in the first period T1 may not include any light components with frequencies greater than the upper limit frequency f1.

[0043] Similarly, in the frequency distribution 122, the component intensity of light components with frequencies greater than the upper limit frequency f2 is 30% or less of the average component intensity of light components with frequencies equal to or less than the upper limit frequency f2. Note that the method for calculating the average component intensity of light components with frequencies equal to or less than the upper limit frequency f2 is similar to the method for calculating the average component intensity of light components with frequencies equal to or less than the upper limit frequency f1, and therefore will not be described here. Alternatively, in the frequency distribution 122, the component intensity of components with frequencies greater than the upper limit frequency f2 may be 0, i.e., the second pattern 112 in the second period T2 may not include light components with frequencies greater than the upper limit frequency f2.

[0044] Furthermore, it is preferable that upper limit frequency f2 be at least 1 Hz higher than upper limit frequency f1. This makes it easier to notice that light intensity L1 during second period T2 contains light components whose frequencies are higher than upper limit frequency f1. This makes it easier to detect changes in the fluctuation frequency of light intensity L1, which makes it easier to evoke natural flickering, such as the flickering of a flame, and thereby improves the relaxing effect of lighting device 10.

[0045] Furthermore, it is preferable that the upper limit frequency f1 be 5 Hz or less. This helps prevent situations in which fluctuations in light intensity L1 are perceived as flickering or are reminiscent of an incandescent bulb with a burnt-out filament, thereby reducing the relaxation effect. In the lighting device 10 according to the first embodiment, the upper limit frequency f1 is 2 Hz, as shown in FIG. 3A .

[0046] Furthermore, it is preferable that the upper limit frequency f2 be 3 Hz or more and 8 Hz or less. This reduces the likelihood that fluctuations in the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 will give the same impression between the second period T2 and the first period T1, thereby improving the relaxation effect provided by the lighting device 10. Furthermore, since the fluctuations in the light intensity L1 during the second period T2 are not excessively intense, the relaxation effect provided by the lighting device 10 can also be improved. In the lighting device 10 according to the first embodiment, the upper limit frequency f2 is 4 Hz, as shown in FIG. 3B . Therefore, the upper limit frequency f2 is 1 Hz or more higher than the upper limit frequency f1.

[0047] (4) Moving Average of Light Intensity As a third condition, as shown in FIG. 4, the maximum value L2x of the moving average 142 of the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 in the second period T2 is greater than the maximum value L1x of the moving average 141 of the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 in the first period T1.

[0048] Here, the moving average 140 of the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 refers to the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 at each time, corresponding to the average value from a predetermined time before that time to that time. Of the moving average 140 of the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21, the portion corresponding to each of the multiple first periods T1 is referred to as moving average 141, and the portion corresponding to each of the multiple second periods T2 is referred to as moving average 142. The predetermined time is, for example, 0.5 seconds or more and 1 second or less. In the moving average 140 shown in FIG. 4, the predetermined time is 0.5 seconds.

[0049] That is, the moving average 140 of the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 changes gradually compared to the light output pattern 110 (see FIG. 2) at the same time. In particular, when the light output pattern 110 includes extremely short-term changes, the changes are unlikely to be reflected in the moving average 140. For example, when the first pattern 111 of the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 has an extremely short-term peak 111p as shown in FIG. 5, the influence of the peak 111p on the moving average 141 is extremely small. The peak 111p may be generated intentionally using a light control pattern or may occur accidentally due to noise generated in the control unit 11. The extremely short-term changes such as the peak 111p hardly contribute to the impression of fluctuations in the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 during the first period T1 or the second period T2. 5 , the impression of the fluctuations in light intensity L1 of light-emitting unit 21 is clearly different from the impression of the fluctuations in light intensity L1 of light-emitting unit 21 when light intensity L1 of light-emitting unit 21 is the first pattern 111 shown in Fig. 5 and when, for example, light is emitted continuously for two seconds at the same light intensity L1 as peak 111p. Because the third condition is based on the impression of the fluctuations in light intensity L1 of light-emitting unit 21, the maximum and minimum values ​​of its moving average 140 are used for conditioning, rather than the maximum and minimum values ​​of light intensity L1 of light-emitting unit 21. As a result, even if an extremely short-term change such as peak 111p is included in light output pattern 110, it does not affect the determination of the third condition.

[0050] By satisfying the third condition described above, the fluctuations of the light intensity L1 in the second period T2 satisfy the following conditions: the maximum value of the moving average of the light intensity L1 is larger and the average of the light intensity L1 is larger than the fluctuations of the light intensity L1 in the first period T1. Furthermore, the fluctuations of the light intensity L1 in the second period T2 satisfy the following conditions: the maximum value of the moving average of the light intensity L1 is larger and the proportion of light components with a frequency of 1 Hz or higher is larger than the fluctuations of the light intensity L1 in the first period T1. As a result, the impression given by the fluctuations of the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 between the first period T1 and the second period T2 is different, and the fluctuations are not monotonous but irregular enough to be perceived as natural fluctuations.

[0051] 4 , the maximum value L1x of the moving average 141 of the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 during the first period T1 is equal to or greater than the minimum value L2n of the moving average 142 of the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 during the second period T2. In contrast, if the maximum value L1x of the moving average 141 is less than the minimum value L2n of the moving average 142, for example, the range of values ​​that the moving average 141 can take does not overlap with the range of values ​​that the moving average 142 can take. Therefore, when the first period T1 and the second period T2 are consecutive, a sudden change in the light intensity L1 occurs at the boundary between the first period T1 and the second period T2. On the other hand, if the maximum value L1x of the moving average 141 is equal to or greater than the minimum value L2n of the moving average 142, part of the range of values ​​that the moving average 141 of the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 in the first period T1 can take overlaps with part of the range of values ​​that the moving average 142 of the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 in the second period T2 can take. As a result, a sudden change in the light intensity L1 does not necessarily occur when switching from the first period T1 to the second period T2, or when switching from the second period T2 to the first period T1. Therefore, the change in the light intensity L1 due to the light output pattern 110 can evoke a natural fluctuation.

[0052] Furthermore, the minimum value L1n of the moving average 141 of the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 in the first period T1 is greater than the minimum value L2n of the moving average 142 of the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 in the second period T2. As a result, the range from the minimum value L1n to the maximum value L1x of the moving average 141 is included in the range from the minimum value L2n to the maximum value L2x of the moving average 142. Therefore, the possible range of the moving average 142 of the light intensity L1 in the second period T2 includes the possible range of the moving average 141 of the light intensity L1 in the first period T1 and is wider than the possible range of the moving average 141. In other words, the range of change in the light intensity L1 in the second period T2 is wider than that in the first period T1. As a result, changes in the fluctuations of the light intensity L1 between the first period T1 and the second period T2 are more easily noticed, increasing conspicuousness.

[0053] Furthermore, the ratio (L1x / L1n) of the maximum value L1x of the moving average 141 of the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 to the minimum value L1n during the first period T1 is preferably greater than the ratio (L2x / L2n) of the maximum value L2x of the moving average 142 of the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 to the minimum value L2n during the second period T2. The ratio (L1x / L1n) of the maximum value L1x of the moving average 141 of the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 to the minimum value L1n during the first period T1 corresponds to a first intensity ratio. The ratio (L2x / L2n) of the maximum value L2x of the moving average 142 of the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 to the minimum value L2n during the second period T2 corresponds to a second intensity ratio. As a result, during the second period T2, the maximum value L2x of the moving average 142 of the light intensity L1 is large, while the ratio of the maximum value L2x to the minimum value L2n is small. That is, in the second period T2, the maximum value of light intensity L1 is large but the range of change is small, suppressing drastic changes in light intensity L1. On the other hand, in the first period T1, the maximum value L1x of the moving average 141 of light intensity L1 is small but the ratio of maximum value L1x to minimum value L1n is large. That is, in the first period T1, the maximum value of light intensity L1 is small but the range of change is large, making the changes in light intensity L1 easy to notice. Therefore, in lighting device 10, fluctuations in light intensity L1 are easily recognized and a relaxing effect is exerted.

[0054] Note that the ratio (L2x / L2n) of the maximum value L2x of the moving average 142 of the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 to the minimum value L2n during the second time period T2 may be greater than the ratio (L1x / L1n) of the maximum value L1x of the moving average 141 of the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 to the minimum value L1n during the first time period T1. In this case, the fluctuations in the light intensity L1 during the second time period T2 give the impression of being more intense than the fluctuations in the light intensity L1 during the first time period T1. Therefore, in the lighting device 10, the changes in the light intensity L1 give the impression of being lively, and an eye-catching effect is achieved.

[0055] Here, the ratio (L1x / L1n) of the maximum value L1x of the moving average 141 of the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 in the first period T1 to the minimum value L1n is preferably 1.1 or more and 8 or less. This allows the light intensity L1 to change to an easily noticeable degree in the first period T1, and reduces discomfort caused by being recognized as flickering.

[0056] Furthermore, it is preferable that the ratio (L2x / L2n) of the maximum value L2x of the moving average 142 of the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 during the second period T2 to the minimum value L2n be equal to or greater than 1.5 and equal to or less than 10. This allows the light intensity L1 during the second period T2 to change to an extent that causes a dynamic change to be felt, and reduces the discomfort that may be caused by the change being mistaken for a malfunction.

[0057] (5) Frequency Analysis of the First Period and the Second Period FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing the relationship between the light output pattern 110, the conversion windows 130-132, and the frequency distribution. In FIG. 6, the conversion windows 130-132 indicate the time domain corresponding to the frequency distribution. The frequency distribution is obtained by Fourier transforming the portion of the light output pattern 110 located within the conversion window 130. The time length W1 of the conversion window 130 is 2 seconds or more and 30 seconds or less. Furthermore, the time length W1 of the conversion window 130 is preferably 5 seconds or more and 20 seconds or less. The time length W1 of the conversion window 130 is, for example, 10 seconds.

[0058] When generating the frequency distribution of the light output pattern 110, for example, the value of the light intensity L1 included in the conversion window 130 is Fourier transformed to calculate the frequency distribution at the time corresponding to the position of the conversion window 130. The time corresponding to the position of the conversion window 130 is, for example, the time at the center of the conversion window 130. Note that the time corresponding to the position of the conversion window 130 may be, for example, the start time or the end time of the conversion window 130.

[0059] The start time of conversion window 130 is then changed by a predetermined time interval, and the process of generating a frequency distribution is repeated. This results in a frequency distribution corresponding to all time periods of light output pattern 110. The predetermined time interval is, for example, between 0.05 seconds and 5 seconds. Using the frequency distribution obtained by the above process, light output pattern 110 is divided into 10-second intervals, which is the reference interval length, and it is possible to determine whether each interval corresponds to first period T1 or second period T2. This makes it possible to determine whether light output pattern 110 of lighting device 10 satisfies the above-mentioned conditions.

[0060] Here, in FIG. 6 , one of the possible positions of the conversion window 130 is shown as conversion window 130, and two of the special positions of the conversion window 130 described below are shown as conversion window 131 and conversion window 132. That is, the multiple positions of the conversion window 130 include the conversion window 130, conversion window 131, and conversion window 132 in FIG. 6 . The conversion window 131 includes the first period T1 and corresponds to the first interval. The conversion window 132 includes the second period T2 and corresponds to the second interval. Note that, when the width of the conversion window 130 and the reference interval length are different, they can be handled as follows. For example, when it can be determined that 50% or more of the width of the conversion window 130 is part of the first period T1, it can be said that the range of the conversion window 130 is at least part of the first period T1. Similarly, when it can be determined that 50% or more of the width of the conversion window 130 is part of the second period T2, it can be said that the range of the conversion window 130 is at least part of the second period T2. When the range of the conversion window 130 spans both the first period T1 and the second period T2, the corresponding frequency distribution is a linear combination of the frequency distribution of the first period T1 and the frequency distribution of the second period T2. Furthermore, the ratio of the linear combination of the frequency distribution of the first period T1 and the frequency distribution of the second period T2 corresponds to the time ratio of the first period T1 to the second period T2 within the range of the conversion window 130. Therefore, when 50% or more of the width of the conversion window 130 is the first period T1, the corresponding frequency distribution includes 50% or more of the frequency distribution of the first period T1 as a component. Similarly, when 50% or more of the width of the conversion window 130 is the second period T2, the corresponding frequency distribution includes 50% or more of the frequency distribution of the second period T2 as a component.

[0061] 3. Effects The lighting device 10 according to the first embodiment includes a light-emitting unit 21 and a control unit 11. The light-emitting unit 21 includes a light source 22. The control unit 11 controls the light-emitting unit 21. The period during which the control unit 11 dynamically changes the light intensity L1 of the light output from the light-emitting unit 21 includes a first period T1 and a second period T2. The average value La2 of the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 in the second period T2 is greater than the average value La1 of the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 in the first period T1. The maximum value L2x of the moving average 142 of the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 in the second period T2 is greater than the maximum value L1x of the moving average 141 of the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 in the first period T1. As a result, the range of fluctuation of the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 differs between the first period T1 and the second period T2, and therefore the impression given by the light-emitting unit 21 differs between the first period T1 and the second period T2. Therefore, the fluctuation of the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 of the lighting device 10 becomes a natural fluctuation.

[0062] Furthermore, in the lighting device 10 according to the first embodiment, the integrated value S2 of the light components with frequencies of 1 Hz or higher in the conversion window 132 including the second period T2 is greater than the integrated value S1 of the light components with frequencies of 1 Hz or higher in the conversion window 131 including the first period T1. As a result, the frequency distribution of the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 differs between the first period T1 and the second period T2, and the impression given by the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 differs between the first period T1 and the second period T2. Therefore, the fluctuations in the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 of the lighting device 10 are natural.

[0063] Furthermore, in the lighting device according to the first embodiment, the minimum value L2n of the moving average 142 of the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 during the second period T2 is smaller than the maximum value L1x of the moving average 141 of the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 during the first period T1. This makes it difficult for abrupt changes in the light intensity L1 to occur when switching from the first period T1 to the second period T2, and when switching from the second period T2 to the first period T1. This makes it possible to evoke natural fluctuations in the changes in the light intensity L1 due to the light output pattern 110.

[0064] Furthermore, in the lighting fixture 10 according to the first embodiment, the ratio of the maximum value L1x of the moving average 141 of the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 to the minimum value L1n during the first time period T1 is greater than the ratio of the maximum value L2x of the moving average 142 of the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 to the minimum value L2n during the second time period T2. As a result, during the second time period T2, the maximum value L2x of the moving average 142 of the light intensity L1 is large, while the ratio of the maximum value L2x to the minimum value L2n is small. That is, during the second time period T2, the maximum value of the light intensity L1 is large, but the range of change is small, thereby suppressing drastic changes in the light intensity L1. Meanwhile, during the first time period T1, the maximum value L1x of the moving average 141 of the light intensity L1 is small, while the ratio of the maximum value L1x to the minimum value L1n is large. That is, during the first time period T1, the maximum value of the light intensity L1 is small, but the range of change is large, making it easy to see the changes in the light intensity L1. Therefore, in lighting device 10, fluctuations in light intensity L1 are easily recognized, and a relaxing effect is exerted.

[0065] Furthermore, in lighting device 10 according to the first embodiment, second frequency f2, which is the upper limit frequency of light intensity L1 of light-emitting unit 21 during second period T2, is higher than first frequency f1, which is the upper limit frequency of light intensity L1 of light-emitting unit 21 during first period T1. This makes the difference between the fluctuations of light intensity L1 during first period T1 and the fluctuations of light intensity L1 during second period T2 more distinct. Therefore, for example, the fluctuations of light intensity L1 become closer to natural fluctuations such as the flickering of a flame, thereby improving the relaxing effect provided by lighting device 10.

[0066] Second Embodiment 1. Configuration In lighting device 10 according to the second embodiment, the length of each of the plurality of first periods T1 and the plurality of second periods T2 is variable.

[0067] In lighting device 10 according to the second embodiment, the length of each of the first periods T1 and the second periods T2 is an integer multiple of the reference interval length. For example, if the reference interval length is 10 seconds, the length of each of the first periods T1 and the second periods T2 is an integer multiple of 10 seconds.

[0068] 7 shows a portion of the waveform of light output pattern 110 of lighting fixture 10 according to embodiment 2. The time between time t1 and time t2, the time between time t2 and time t3, the time between time t3 and time t4, and the time between time t4 and time t5 are each 10 seconds, which is the reference interval length. Periods T11 and T12 each correspond to first period T1 when the length of first period T1 is 10 seconds. Periods T21 and T22 each correspond to second period T2 when the length of second period T2 is 10 seconds.

[0069] In lighting device 10 according to embodiment 2, when consecutive periods that could correspond to first period T1 (periods T11 and T12 in FIG. 7 ) are present, if these periods satisfy either the fourth or fifth condition below, the entirety of these periods is treated as a single first period T1. In the example of FIG. 7 , periods T11 and T12 are treated as a single first period T1.

[0070] The fourth condition is that the difference in average output of the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 between multiple periods is no more than one-third of the average output of one period. More specifically, if the difference between the average value of the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 in period T11 and the average value of the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 in period T12 is no more than one-third of the average value of the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 in period T11, the period from time t3 to time t5 is defined as the first period T1. In this case, the length of the first period T1 is 20 seconds.

[0071] The fifth condition is that the difference between the integral S1 (see FIG. 3A ) of the frequency distribution having an integral range of 1 Hz or more in the corresponding frequency distribution between multiple periods is ⅓ or less of the integral S1 of one period. More specifically, if the difference between the integral S1 of the frequency distribution having an integral range of 1 Hz or more in the frequency distribution corresponding to period T11 and the integral S1 of the frequency distribution having an integral range of 1 Hz or more in the frequency distribution corresponding to period T12 is ⅓ or less of the integral S1 of the frequency distribution having an integral range of 1 Hz or more in the frequency distribution corresponding to period T11, then the period from time t3 to time t5 is defined as the first period T1. In this case, the length of the first period T1 is 20 seconds.

[0072] Similarly, in lighting device 10 according to embodiment 2, when consecutive periods that could correspond to second period T2 (periods T21 and T22 in FIG. 7 ) satisfy either the fourth or fifth condition described above, the entirety of those periods is treated as a single second period T2. In the example of FIG. 7 , periods T21 and T22 are treated as a single second period T2.

[0073] That is, as the fourth condition, if the difference between the average value of the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 in the period T21 and the average value of the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 in the period T22 is less than 1 / 3 of the average value of the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 in the period T21, the period from time t1 to time t3 is the second period T2.

[0074] Furthermore, as a fifth condition, if the difference between the integral value S2 having an integration range of 1 Hz or more in the frequency distribution corresponding to the period T21 and the integral value S2 having an integration range of 1 Hz or more in the frequency distribution corresponding to the period T22 is less than 1 / 3 of the integral value S2 having an integration range of 1 Hz or more in the frequency distribution corresponding to the period T21, then the period from time t1 to time t3 is the second period T2.

[0075] The second period T2 having a period length of 20 seconds and the first period T1 having a period length of 20 seconds satisfy the first, second, and third conditions described in embodiment 1. That is, as the first condition, the average value La2 of the light intensity L1 in the second period T2 is greater than the average value La1 of the light intensity L1 in each of the first periods T1. The same applies to the second and third conditions.

[0076] As a result, even if the first period T1 and the second period T2 have different period lengths, the change in light intensity L1 caused by the light output pattern 110 can evoke natural fluctuations, as in the first embodiment.

[0077] Here, the length of the first period T1 is preferably 0.1 seconds or more and 120 seconds or less. This ensures that the second period T2, in which the change in light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 is more drastic than the change in the first period T1, occurs at least once within two consecutive minutes. Therefore, the change in light intensity L1 caused by the light output pattern 110 is not too gentle but moderate, improving the relaxation effect.

[0078] The length of the second period T2 is preferably 0.1 seconds or more and 40 seconds or less. For example, in a natural flame, it is rare for drastic changes to continue for more than 40 seconds. Therefore, this configuration can reduce the discomfort caused by unnatural changes in the light intensity L1 due to the light output pattern 110.

[0079] 2. Effects In lighting device 10 according to embodiment 2, the duration of second period T2 is 40 seconds or less, which reduces the discomfort caused by unnatural changes in light intensity L1 due to light output pattern 110.

[0080] In addition, in the lighting device 10 according to the second embodiment, the length of the first period T1 is 120 seconds or less. As a result, the second period T2, in which the change in the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 is more drastic than the change in the first period T1, occurs at least once within two consecutive minutes. Therefore, the change in the light intensity L1 caused by the light output pattern 110 is not too gradual but moderate, thereby improving the relaxation effect.

[0081] (Embodiment 3) In the lighting device 10 according to embodiment 3, the relationship between the minimum value L1n of the moving average 141 of the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 during the first period T1 and the minimum value L2n of the moving average 142 of the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 during the second period T2 differs from that of embodiment 1.

[0082] 8 , in lighting device 10 according to the third embodiment, minimum value L1n of moving average 141 of light intensity L1 of light-emitting unit 21 during first time period T1 is equal to or less than minimum value L2n of moving average 142 of light intensity L1 of light-emitting unit 21 during second time period T2. This results in a gentle change in fluctuation of light intensity L1 between first time period T1 and second time period T2. Therefore, even if a person stays in a space illuminated by lighting device 10 according to the third embodiment for a long time, discomfort is unlikely to be felt, and lighting device 10 according to the third embodiment is suitable for lighting and staging in places where people stay for long periods of time.

[0083] (Fourth embodiment) A lighting fixture 10 according to a fourth embodiment is used in a lighting system 1. As shown in Fig. 9 , the lighting system 1 includes a plurality of lighting fixtures 10 (three in the illustrated example) and a control device 30. Each of the lighting fixtures 10 has a similar configuration.

[0084] Control device 30 controls each of the plurality of lighting devices 10. More specifically, control device 30 instructs control unit 11 of each of the plurality of lighting devices 10 on the content of a light control pattern for generating light output pattern 110, the start timing of control of light-emitting unit 21, or the start timing of first period T1 or second period T2.

[0085] For example, control device 30 controls multiple lighting fixtures 10 in synchronization with each other so that the changes in light intensity L1 of light-emitting units 21 are synchronized. In this way, multiple lighting fixtures 10 are treated as a single lighting fixture, making it possible to create a unified and eye-catching presentation.

[0086] Furthermore, for example, the control device 30 controls the plurality of lighting fixtures 10 so that the content of the light control pattern for generating the light output pattern 110 or the start timing of control of the light-emitting unit 21 differs from one another. As a result, the plurality of lighting fixtures 10 are controlled so that the changes in the light intensity L1 of the light-emitting unit 21 do not match. As a result, the light intensities L1 of the light-emitting units 21 of the plurality of lighting fixtures 10 differ from one another, enabling a natural effect that does not give an artificial impression. Furthermore, the lighting system 1 as a whole can provide a wide variety of effects.

[0087] Furthermore, for example, the control device 30 controls a plurality of lighting fixtures 10 arranged in a row so that the start timing of control of the light-emitting units 21 using the same light output pattern 110 is offset by an error time. The error time is set, for example, to approximately 0.2 to 5 seconds between adjacent lighting fixtures 10. This results in an effect in which the plurality of lighting fixtures 10 arranged in a row operate sequentially in the direction in which they are lined up, making it possible, for example, to create an effect that guides observers along the direction in which the lighting fixtures 10 are lined up. Therefore, the lighting system 1 can be used, for example, to explain the route at an event or to create an effect that reduces people's lingering.

[0088] (Other Variations of Embodiments) (1) In lighting device 10 according to embodiments 1 to 4, light output pattern 110 satisfies all of conditions 1 to 3, but light output pattern 110 may satisfy at least one of conditions 1 and 2. That is, in lighting device 10 according to embodiments, light output pattern 110 may satisfy both conditions 1 and 3, or may satisfy both conditions 2 and 3.

[0089] (2) Although the lighting fixture 10 according to the first to fourth embodiments includes one light-emitting unit 21, the lighting fixture 10 may include multiple light-emitting units 21. In this case, the multiple light-emitting units 21 may be synchronously turned on, or, as in the case of the multiple lighting fixtures 10 according to the fourth embodiment, the multiple light-emitting units 21 may be turned on independently.

[0090] (3) In the lighting system 1 according to the fourth embodiment, the lighting devices 10 have the same configuration. However, for example, the lighting devices included in the lighting system 1 may have different light-emitting elements with different light colors, different numbers of light-emitting elements, and different maximum and minimum light intensities.

[0091] (4) Although lighting device 10 according to embodiments 1 to 4 includes storage unit 12 and control unit 11 generates a light control pattern based on partial patterns stored in storage unit 12, lighting device 10 may also include a calculation unit that generates a light control pattern by calculation based on, for example, a sine wave, a rectangular wave, a triangular wave, etc. In this case, storage unit 12 may store parameters used in the calculation.

[0092] (5) In lighting device 10 according to embodiments 1 to 4, the period during which controller 11 dynamically changes light intensity L1 of light-emitting unit 21 includes multiple first periods T1 and multiple second periods T2, but there may be only one first period T1 or one second period T2. Furthermore, the period during which controller 11 dynamically changes light intensity L1 of light-emitting unit 21 may include a period that does not fall under either first period T1 or second period T2.

[0093] (Aspect) A lighting device (10) according to a first aspect includes a light-emitting unit (21) and a control unit (11). The light-emitting unit (21) includes a light source (22). The control unit (11) controls the light-emitting unit (21). A period during which the control unit (11) dynamically changes the light intensity (L1) of the light output from the light-emitting unit (21) includes a first period (T1) and a second period (T2). An average value (La2) of the light intensity (L1) of the light-emitting unit (21) in the second period (T2) is greater than an average value (La1) of the light intensity (L1) of the light-emitting unit (21) in the first period (T1). The maximum value (L2x) of the moving average (142) of the light intensity (L1) of the light-emitting unit (21) in the second period (T2) is greater than the maximum value (L1x) of the moving average (141) of the light intensity (L1) of the light-emitting unit (21) in the first period (T1).

[0094] In the lighting device (10) according to the above aspect, the range of fluctuation of the light intensity (L1) of the light-emitting unit (21) differs between the first period (T1) and the second period (T2), and therefore the impression given by the light-emitting unit (21) differs between the first period (T1) and the second period (T2). Therefore, the fluctuation of the light intensity (L1) of the light-emitting unit (21) of the lighting device (10) becomes a natural fluctuation.

[0095] A lighting device (10) according to a second aspect includes a light-emitting unit (21) and a control unit (11). The light-emitting unit (21) includes a light source (22). The control unit (11) controls the light-emitting unit (21). A period during which the control unit (11) dynamically changes the light intensity (L1) of the light output from the light-emitting unit (21) includes a first period (T1) and a second period (T2). The light intensity (L1) of the light-emitting unit (21) is such that a sum (S2) of component intensities of light components with frequencies of 1 Hz or higher in a second period (132) is greater than a sum (S1) of component intensities of light components with frequencies of 1 Hz or higher in a first period (131). The second period (132) includes at least a portion of the second period (T2). The first period (131) includes at least a portion of the first period (T1). The average value (La2) of the light intensity (L1) of the light-emitting unit (21) in the second period (T2) is greater than the average value (La1) of the light intensity (L1) of the light-emitting unit (21) in the first period (T1). The maximum value (L2x) of the moving average (142) of the light intensity (L1) of the light-emitting unit (21) in the second period (T2) is greater than the maximum value (L1x) of the moving average (141) of the light intensity (L1) of the light-emitting unit (21) in the first period (T1).

[0096] In the lighting device (10) according to the above aspect, the frequency distribution and average value of the light intensity (L1) of the light-emitting unit (21) differ between the first period (T1) and the second period (T2), and therefore the impression given by the light-emitting unit (21) differs between the first period (T1) and the second period (T2). Therefore, the fluctuation of the light intensity (L1) of the light-emitting unit (21) of the lighting device (10) is more severe in the second period (T2) than in the first period (T1), resulting in a natural fluctuation.

[0097] In the lighting device (10) according to the third aspect, in the second aspect, the average value (La2) of the light intensity (L1) of the light-emitting unit (21) in the second period (T2) is greater than the average value (La1) of the light intensity (L1) of the light-emitting unit (21) in the first period (T1).

[0098] In the lighting device (10) according to the above aspect, the average light intensity (L1) is greater in the second period (T2) than in the first period (T1), and therefore the difference in impression given by the light intensity (L1) of the light-emitting unit (21) between the first period (T1) and the second period (T2) becomes greater. Therefore, the fluctuations in the light intensity (L1) of the light-emitting unit (21) of the lighting device (10) are natural and provide a sense of relaxation.

[0099] In the lighting device (10) according to the fourth aspect, in any of the first to third aspects, the minimum value (L2n) of the moving average (142) of the light intensity (L1) of the light-emitting unit (21) during the second time period (T2) is smaller than the maximum value (L1x) of the moving average (141) of the light intensity (L1) of the light-emitting unit (21) during the first time period (T1).

[0100] According to the lighting device (10) of the above aspect, abrupt changes in the light intensity (L1) are unlikely to occur when switching from the first period (T1) to the second period (T2) and when switching from the second period (T2) to the first period (T1). Therefore, the change in the light intensity (L1) of the light-emitting unit (21) can evoke a natural fluctuation.

[0101] In the lighting device (10) according to a fifth aspect, in any one of the first to fourth aspects, the length of the second period (T2) is 40 seconds or less.

[0102] According to the lighting fixture (10) of the above aspect, it is possible to reduce the discomfort caused by the unnatural change in the light intensity (L1) of the light-emitting part (21) that is unlikely to occur in a natural flame, etc.

[0103] In the lighting device (10) according to a sixth aspect, in any one of the first to fifth aspects, the length of the first period (T1) is 120 seconds or less.

[0104] In the lighting device (10) according to the above aspect, the second period (T2) during which the change in the light intensity (L1) of the light-emitting unit (21) is more drastic than the change in the first period (T1) occurs at least once within two consecutive minutes. Therefore, the change in the light intensity (L1) of the light-emitting unit (21) is not too gradual but moderate, thereby improving the relaxation effect.

[0105] In the lighting device (10) according to the seventh aspect, in any of the first to sixth aspects, a first intensity ratio, which is the ratio of the maximum value (L1x) of the moving average (141) of the light intensity (L1) of the light-emitting unit (21) in the first time period (T1) to the minimum value (L1n), is greater than a second intensity ratio, which is the ratio of the maximum value (L2x) of the moving average (142) of the light intensity (L1) of the light-emitting unit (21) in the second time period (T2) to the minimum value (L2n).

[0106] In the lighting device (10) according to the above aspect, during the second period (T2), the maximum value (L2x) of the moving average (142) of the light intensity (L1) of the light-emitting unit (21) is large, but the ratio of the maximum value (L2x) to the minimum value (L2n) is small, thereby suppressing drastic changes in the light intensity (L1). On the other hand, in the lighting device (10) according to the above aspect, during the first period (T1), the maximum value (L1x) of the moving average (141) of the light intensity (L1) of the light-emitting unit (21) is small, but the ratio of the maximum value (L1x) to the minimum value (L1n) is large, thereby making it easy to see changes in the light intensity (L1). Therefore, in the lighting device (10), fluctuations in the light intensity (L1) of the light-emitting unit (21) are easily recognized, and a relaxing effect is exerted.

[0107] In the lighting device (10) according to an eighth aspect, in any of the first to seventh aspects, the second frequency (f2) is greater than the first frequency (f1). The second frequency (f2) is an upper limit frequency of the light intensity (L1) of the light-emitting unit (21) in the second period (T2). The first frequency (f1) is an upper limit frequency of the light intensity (L1) of the light-emitting unit (21) in the first period (T1).

[0108] According to the lighting device (10) of the above aspect, the difference between the fluctuation of the light intensity (L1) in the first period (T1) and the fluctuation of the light intensity (L1) in the second period (T2) becomes clearer. Therefore, for example, the fluctuation of the light intensity (L1) becomes closer to a natural fluctuation such as the flickering of a flame, and it becomes possible to improve the relaxing effect brought about by the lighting device (10).

[0109] A control method according to a ninth aspect is a control method for controlling a light-emitting unit (21) including a light source (22). A period during which the light intensity (L1) of light output from the light-emitting unit (21) is dynamically changed by the control method includes a first period (T1) and a second period (T2). An average value (La2) of the light intensity (L1) of the light-emitting unit (21) in the second period (T2) is greater than an average value (La1) of the light intensity (L1) of the light-emitting unit (21) in the first period (T1). A maximum value (L2x) of a moving average (142) of the light intensity (L1) of the light-emitting unit (21) in the second period (T2) is greater than a maximum value of a moving average (141) of the light intensity (L1) of the light-emitting unit (21) in the first period (T1).

[0110] In the lighting device (10) according to the above aspect, the range of fluctuation of the light intensity (L1) of the light-emitting unit (21) differs between the first period (T1) and the second period (T2), and therefore the impression given by the light-emitting unit (21) differs between the first period (T1) and the second period (T2). Therefore, the fluctuation of the light intensity (L1) of the light-emitting unit (21) of the lighting device (10) becomes a natural fluctuation.

[0111] A control method according to a tenth aspect is a control method for controlling a light-emitting unit (21) including a light source (22). A period during which the light intensity (L1) of light output from the light-emitting unit (21) is dynamically changed by the control method includes a first period (T1) and a second period (T2). Regarding the light intensity (L1) of the light-emitting unit (21), a sum (S2) of component intensities of light components with frequencies of 1 Hz or more in a second interval (132) including at least a portion of the second period (T2) is greater than a sum (S1) of component intensities of light components with frequencies of 1 Hz or more in a first interval (131) including at least a portion of the first period (T1). A maximum value (L2x) of a moving average (142) of the light intensity (L1) of the light-emitting unit (21) in the second period (T2) is greater than a maximum value (L1x) of a moving average (141) of the light intensity (L1) of the light-emitting unit (21) in the first period (T1).

[0112] According to the control method of the above aspect, the frequency distribution and average value of the light intensity (L1) of the light-emitting unit (21) differ between the first period (T1) and the second period (T2), and therefore the impression given by the light-emitting unit (21) differs between the first period (T1) and the second period (T2). Therefore, the fluctuation of the light intensity (L1) of the light-emitting unit (21) is more severe in the second period (T2) than in the first period (T1), resulting in a natural fluctuation.

[0113] The control method of the eleventh aspect is the tenth aspect, wherein the average value (La2) of the light intensity (L1) of the light-emitting unit (21) in the second period (T2) is greater than the average value (La1) of the light intensity (L1) of the light-emitting unit (21) in the first period (T1).

[0114] According to the control method of the above aspect, the average light intensity (L1) is greater in the second period (T2) than in the first period (T1), and therefore the difference in the impression given by the light intensity (L1) of the light-emitting unit (21) between the first period (T1) and the second period (T2) becomes greater. Therefore, the fluctuation of the light intensity (L1) of the light-emitting unit (21) becomes natural and brings about a sense of relaxation.

[0115] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 10 Lighting fixture 11 Control unit 21 Light-emitting unit 22 Light source 131 Conversion window (first interval) 132 Conversion window (second interval) 141, 142 Moving average L1 Light intensity T1 First period T2 Second period La1, La2 Average value L1x, L2x Maximum value of moving average L1n, L2n Minimum value of moving average S1, S2 Integrated value (total of component intensities) f1 Upper limit frequency (first frequency) f2 Upper limit frequency (second frequency)

Claims

1. A lighting device comprising: a light-emitting unit including a light source; and a control unit that controls the light-emitting unit, wherein a period during which the control unit dynamically changes the light intensity of light output from the light-emitting unit includes a first period and a second period, an average value of the light intensity of the light-emitting unit in the second period is greater than the average value of the light intensity of the light-emitting unit in the first period, and a maximum value of the moving average of the light intensity of the light-emitting unit in the second period is greater than the maximum value of the moving average of the light intensity of the light-emitting unit in the first period.

2. A lighting device comprising: a light-emitting unit including a light source; and a control unit that controls the light-emitting unit, wherein a period during which the control unit dynamically changes the light intensity of the light output from the light-emitting unit includes a first period and a second period, wherein the light intensity of the light-emitting unit is such that a total sum of component intensities of light components with a frequency of 1 Hz or more in a second interval including at least a part of the second period is greater than a total sum of component intensities of light components with a frequency of 1 Hz or more in a first interval including at least a part of the first period, and the maximum value of the moving average of the light intensity of the light-emitting unit in the second period is greater than the maximum value of the moving average of the light intensity of the light-emitting unit in the first period.

3. The lighting device according to claim 2, wherein an average value of the light intensity of the light-emitting section during the second period is greater than an average value of the light intensity of the light-emitting section during the first period.

4. A lighting device as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a minimum value of a moving average of the light intensity of the light-emitting unit during the second period is smaller than a maximum value of a moving average of the light intensity of the light-emitting unit during the first period.

5. A lighting device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the length of the second period is 40 seconds or less.

6. A lighting device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the length of the first period is 120 seconds or less.

7. A lighting device as described in any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein a first intensity ratio which is a ratio of a maximum value of a moving average of the light intensity of the light-emitting unit in the first period to a minimum value is greater than a second intensity ratio which is a ratio of a maximum value of a moving average of the light intensity of the light-emitting unit in the second period to a minimum value.

8. A lighting device as described in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein a second frequency that is an upper limit frequency of the light intensity of the light-emitting unit in the second period is higher than a first frequency that is an upper limit frequency of the light intensity of the light-emitting unit in the first period.

9. A control method for controlling a light-emitting unit including a light source, wherein a period during which the light intensity of light output from the light-emitting unit is dynamically changed by the control method includes a first period and a second period, an average value of the light intensity of the light-emitting unit in the second period is greater than the average value of the light intensity of the light-emitting unit in the first period, and a maximum value of the moving average of the light intensity of the light-emitting unit in the second period is greater than a maximum value of the moving average of the light intensity of the light-emitting unit in the first period.

10. A control method for controlling a light-emitting unit including a light source, wherein a period during which the light intensity of light output from the light-emitting unit is dynamically changed by the control method includes a first period and a second period, the light intensity of the light-emitting unit is such that a total sum of component intensities of light components with a frequency of 1 Hz or more in a second interval including at least a portion of the second period is greater than a total sum of component intensities of light components with a frequency of 1 Hz or more in a first interval including at least a portion of the first period, and the maximum value of the moving average of the light intensity of the light-emitting unit in the second period is greater than a maximum value of the moving average of the light intensity of the light-emitting unit in the first period.

11. The control method according to claim 10, wherein an average value of the light intensity of the light-emitting unit in the second period is greater than an average value of the light intensity of the light-emitting unit in the first period.

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