Configuring a device

Abstract

A mechanism for selecting, from a plurality of unconfigured devices, a next unconfigured device for configuration by a configuration device. The selection is responsive to a distance between each unconfigured device and the configuration device, as well as to a distance between each unconfigured device and a previously configured device. The configured device and the unconfigured devices form a group of devices to be configured during a configuration session.

Description

[0001] Configuring a device

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present disclosure relates to the field of device networks, and in particular, to the configuration of devices.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] There is an increasing interest in networks, systems or arrangements of devices, such as lighting devices. One example is a lighting system that is used to provide artificial light in a wide variety of environments, such as in domestic, industrial and / or public settings.

[0006] Systems of devices commonly comprise a plurality of devices. There is a desire to facilitate configuration and / or commissioning of the plurality of devices, and it is typical for a configuration device to be configured or designed for this task. An existing technique for configuring the plurality of devices is to configure each device in turn. A device will indicate when it its turn for configuration, e.g., by flashing, blinking, or dimming a light emitting element (e.g., for a lighting device, the lighting element of the lighting device). The configuration device, of an operator thereof, will identify the flashing / blinking / dimming to identify which device is to be configured - before performing one or more configuration tasks with the identified device.

[0007] Examples of configuration tasks to be performed for a device include: defining a location of the device in space; defining to which group(s) and / or sub-group(s) of devices the device belongs; defining which device(s) is / are to operate or be controlled simultaneously; and so on. Typically, configuration tasks are adapted to configure a device for distributed control during use of the device.

[0008] There is an ongoing desire to increase the ease and speed of configuring devices.

[0009] US2023363070 discloses a method and system for auto-commissioning devices within a system. The auto-commissioning processes utilize a commissioning algorithm to assign weighted values to each device based on their locations relative to a selected primary device. Any device arranged at a sharp angle with respect to the primary device, e.g., at a right angle with respect to the primary device, at a mid-angle with respect to the primary device, or within a threshold value of a right angle or mid-angle with respect to the primary device is assigned the weighted value. In the commissioning processes described herein, devices assigned the weighted value are commissioned to the system. Once commissioned to the system, and as the devices are assumed to be arranged in a pattern that approximates a grid pattern, each device is snapped to a visual grid displayed to the user.

[0010] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] The invention is defined by the claims.

[0012] According to examples in accordance with an aspect of the invention, there is provided a computer-implemented method for selecting, from a plurality of unconfigured lighting devices, a lighting device for configuration by a configuration device.

[0013] The computer-implemented method comprises: obtaining, for each unconfigured device, a first distance-responsive value that changes responsive to a distance between the configuration device and the unconfigured device; obtaining, for each unconfigured device, a second distance-responsive value that changes responsive to a distance between a configured device and the unconfigured device, wherein the configured device is a device previously configured by the configuration device; and selecting, from the plurality of unconfigured device, the device for configuration by the configuration device responsive to the first distance-responsive value and the second distance-responsive value of each unconfigured device.

[0014] The present disclosure provides a mechanism for identifying a next device to be configured (e.g., commissioned) by a configuration device, based on a first distance- responsive value and a second distance-responsive value of each unconfigured device. The first distance-responsive value represents a distance between the unconfigured device and the configuration device. The second distance-responsive value represents a distance between the unconfigured device and a previously configured device.

[0015] The proposed approach facilitates identification of an unconfigured device that lies, for instance, in a region between the configuration device and at least one previously configured device. This increases a likelihood that the configuration device will already be pointed in the direction of the unconfigured device, as devices are typically configured in sequence (such that the configuration device will likely be pointed towards the configured device). This increases an ease of configuring or commissioning the device. The method may further comprise calculating, for each unconfigured device, a first summed or average distance-responsive value using the first distance-responsive value and the second distance-responsive value of the unconfigured device, wherein the step of selecting the device for configuration comprises selecting the device responsive to the first summed or average distance-responsive value of each unconfigured device.

[0016] In some examples, the step of selecting the device comprises selecting the unconfigured device whose first summed or average distance-responsive value represents a relatively small, or smallest distance.

[0017] In some examples, the step of selecting the device comprises selecting one of a first subset of the plurality of unconfigured devices, wherein each unconfigured device in the first subset of the plurality of unconfigured devices has a first distance-responsive value that breaches a first predetermined threshold and a second-distance-responsive value that breaches a second predetermined threshold.

[0018] In some examples, for each unconfigured lighting deice, a first distance- responsive value that breaches the first predetermined threshold indicates that an expected distance between the unconfigured device and the configuration device is below a first predetermined distance; and for each unconfigured lighting deice, a second distance- responsive value that breaches the second predetermined threshold indicates that an expected distance between the unconfigured device and the configured device is below a second predetermined distance.

[0019] In some examples, the configuration device is configured to wirelessly communicate with each unconfigured device; and for each unconfigured device, the first distance-responsive value is directly responsive to a signal strength of one or more wireless signals generated by the unconfigured device and received by the configuration device.

[0020] In some examples, the configured device is configured to receive one or more wireless signals generated by each unconfigured device; and for each unconfigured device, the second distance-responsive value is directly responsive to a signal strength of the one or more wireless signals generated by the unconfigured device and received by the configured device.

[0021] In some examples, the configured device is a most recently configured device by the configuration device. This increases a likelihood that the configuration device and / or operator thereof will be facing the direction of the configured device, and therefore will be facing a similar or same direction to the selected unconfigured device. The method may further comprise obtaining, for each unconfigured device, one or more further distance-responsive values, wherein: each further distance-responsive value changes responsive to a distance between a respective further configured device and the unconfigured device; each further configured device is a device previously configured by the configuration device; and the step of selecting, from the plurality of unconfigured device, the device for configuration by the configuration device is further responsive to each further distance-responsive value.

[0022] The method may further comprise calculating, for each unconfigured device, a second summed or average distance-responsive value using the first distance-responsive value, the second distance-responsive value and each further distance-responsive value of the unconfigured device, wherein the step of selecting the device for configuration comprises selecting the device responsive to the second summed or average distance-responsive value of each unconfigured device.

[0023] In some examples, the step of selecting the device comprises selecting one of a second subset of the plurality of unconfigured devices, wherein, for each unconfigured device in the second subset of the plurality of unconfigured devices, the first distance-responsive value; the second-distance-responsive value and each further distance-responsive value breaches a respective predetermined threshold.

[0024] There is also proposed a computer-implemented method for configuring a device using a configuration device, the computer-implemented method comprising: selecting the device for configuration using any herein disclosed method; and configuring the selected device using the configuration device.

[0025] The computer-implemented method may further comprise generating, using the selected unconfigured device, feedback for identifying the selected unconfigured device to the configuration device.

[0026] In some examples, the feedback comprises one or more electromagnetic signals for detection by the configuration device.

[0027] There is also proposed a computer program product comprising computer program code means which, when executed on a computing device having a processing system, cause the processing system to perform all of the steps of any herein disclosed method.

[0028] There is also proposed a processing system for selecting, from a plurality of unconfigured devices, a device for configuration by a configuration device, the processing system being configured to: obtain, for each unconfigured device, a first distance-responsive value that changes responsive to a distance between the configuration device and the unconfigured device; obtain, for each unconfigured device, a second distance-responsive value that changes responsive to a distance between a configured device and the unconfigured device, wherein the configured device is a device previously configured by the configuration device; and select, from the plurality of unconfigured device, the device for configuration by the configuration device responsive to the first distance-responsive value and the second distance-responsive value of each unconfigured device.

[0029] There is also proposed a configuration device for configuring devices, the configuration device comprising the processing system.

[0030] The configuration device may further comprise a wireless communication module configured to wirelessly communicate with the plurality of unconfigured devices, wherein, for each unconfigured device, the first distance-responsive value is directly responsive to a signal strength of one or more wireless signals generated by the unconfigured device and received by the wireless communication module of the configuration device.

[0031] These and other aspects of the invention will be apparent from and elucidated with reference to the embodiment s) described hereinafter.

[0032] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0033] For a better understanding of the invention, and to show more clearly how it may be carried into effect, reference will now be made, by way of example only, to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0034] Fig. 1 illustrates a lighting environment;

[0035] Fig. 2 illustrates a proposed method;

[0036] Fig. 3 illustrates another proposed method;

[0037] Fig. 4 illustrates another proposed method;

[0038] Fig. 5 illustrates another proposed method; and Fig. 6 illustrates a proposed configuration device.

[0039] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0040] The invention will be described with reference to the Figures.

[0041] It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating exemplary embodiments of the apparatus, systems and methods, are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the apparatus, systems and methods of the present invention will become better understood from the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the Figures are merely schematic and are not drawn to scale. It should also be understood that the same reference numerals are used throughout the Figures to indicate the same or similar parts.

[0042] The invention provides a mechanism for selecting, from a plurality of unconfigured devices, a next unconfigured device for configuration by a configuration device. The selection is responsive to a distance between each unconfigured device and the configuration device, as well as to a distance between each unconfigured device and a previously configured device. The configured device and the unconfigured devices form a group of devices to be configured during a configuration session.

[0043] In the context of the present disclosure, an unconfigured device is a device (amongst a plurality of devices) that has not yet been configured during a current or ongoing configuration session (e.g., a session in which each of a plurality of devices is to be (re)configured). Thus, the unconfigured device may have been previously configured during a previous configuration session, but not during the current or ongoing configuration session, and is therefore considered to be unconfigured. A configured device is one that has been configured during the current or ongoing configuration session.

[0044] Proposed approaches are described in the context of a lighting environment, in which each device for configuration (i.e., each configured or unconfigured device) is a lighting device. However, the skilled person will appreciate how the proposed techniques can be applied for the configuration or commissioning of any form of device. Thus, the term “lighting” can be omitted for the label of any hereafter described device or environment (e.g., a “configured lighting device” may simply be a “configured device”, an “unconfigured lighting device” may be a “unconfigured device” and so on). As an example, a (un)configured device may be a (un)configured heating device, a (un)configured audio output device, a (un)configured audio input device and so on.

[0045] Figure 1 illustrates a lighting environment 100 in which embodiments can be employed, for the sake of improved contextual understanding.

[0046] In the lighting environment 100, there is a desire to configure one or more unconfigured lighting devices 111, 112, 113, e.g., to perform one or more configuration tasks on the unconfigured lighting device(s). In order to perform one or more configuration tasks on a particular unconfigured lighting device, a configuration device 150 communicates with said unconfigured lighting device (e.g., over one or more wired / wireless communication channels).

[0047] Typically, a configuration device will wish to configure each unconfigured lighting device individually / separately. Accordingly, there is a desire to select, from a plurality of possible unconfigured lighting devices, the next device that a configuration device will configure.

[0048] Approaches for configuring an unconfigured lighting device are established in the art. The precise mechanism by which a configuration takes place is immaterial to the underlying approach proposed by the present invention.

[0049] The present disclosure proposes to select the next (unconfigured) lighting device for configuration responsive to a distance di between each unconfigured lighting device 111, 112, 113 and the configuration device 150 as well as the distance d? between each unconfigured lighting device 111, 112, 113 and a previously configured lighting device 120. This approach can help ensure that the next lighting device selected for configuration is one that is in the vicinity of a previously configured lighting device, e.g., in a direction towards which the configuration device 150 is already facing.

[0050] The previously configured lighting device 120 may, for instance, be the most recently updated or configured lighting device. This increases the likelihood that the selected unconfigured lighting device will be in a similar / same direction to which the configuration device 150 (or operator thereof) is already facing. This significantly increases an ease for the configuration device (of an operator thereof) to identify the unconfigured lighting device during a configuration procedure.

[0051] Some embodiments may also make use of a distance ds between the previously configured lighting device 120 and the configuration device 150. Such embodiments help improve the selection of the unconfigured lighting device and will be explained in more detail later in this disclosure.

[0052] In the context of the present disclosure, a distance-responsive value is a value that changes responsive to a distance between two devices. In this way, a distance-responsive value is a value of a distance-responsive parameter, where a distance-responsive parameter is a parameter whose value changes responsive to changes in distance.

[0053] If one device is able to generate wireless signals, a suitable example of a first distance-responsive value is a measure of signal strength (at the other device) of one or more wireless signals generated by the first device. Thus, a suitable example of a distance- responsive parameter between two devices is a signal strength of one or more wireless signals generated by one device and received by the other device.

[0054] A suitable example of a measure of signal strength is an RSSI value, such that a suitable example of a distance-responsive parameter is an RSSI. An RSSI is a metric used to measure the strength of a received wireless signal, and is common in wireless communication systems like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and cellular networks. RSSI represents the power level of the received signal and is typically measured in dBm. The higher the RSSI value, the stronger the received signal, indicating better signal quality and stronger connection. It is at least partially defined or dependent upon the distance between the two devices.

[0055] Generally, as the distance between the two devices increases, the RSSI value tends to decrease. However, for improved accuracy, a distance-responsive value may be produced by processing the RSSI value (e.g., using an RSSI-based ranging or localization techniques) to estimate the approximate distance between the two devices.

[0056] Other suitable examples for a distance-responsive value (and corresponding distance-responsive parameter) will be apparent to the skilled person, such as a time-of-flight value (e.g., if a wireless signal generated by each unconfigured lighting device carries a timestamp), a latency value, an Angle of Arrival (AoA) value, a Time Difference of Arrival (TDoA), fingerprinting values, and so on.

[0057] Figure 2 is a flowchart illustrating a proposed method 200 for selecting, from a plurality of unconfigured lighting devices, a lighting device for configuration by a configuration device. The method 200 may be performed by the configuration device itself.

[0058] The method 200 comprises a step 210 of obtaining, for each unconfigured lighting device, a first distance-responsive value that changes responsive to a distance between the configuration device and the unconfigured lighting device. Suitable examples of distance-responsive values (that are responsive to a distance between two devices) have been previously disclosed.

[0059] By way of example, step 210 may comprise generating a first list (or “first distance list”), which indicates the distances between the configuration device and each unconfigured lighting device. The unconfigured lighting devices in the first list may be arranged according to the distance values in a descending or ascending order.

[0060] The method 200 also comprises a step 220 of obtaining, for each unconfigured lighting device, a second distance-responsive value that changes responsive to a distance between the configured lighting device and the unconfigured lighting device. Suitable examples of distance-responsive values (that are responsive to a distance between two devices) have been previously disclosed.

[0061] Preferably, the first distance-responsive value and the second distance- responsive values share a same scale, e.g., both represent values of the same distance- responsive parameter between the two devices associated with the relevant distance- responsive value or are normalized to a same scale. This aids in ease of comparison and calculation for both types of distance-responsive value.

[0062] By way of example, step 220 may comprise generating a second list (or “second distance list”), which indicates the distances between the configured lighting device and each unconfigured lighting device. The unconfigured lighting devices in the second list may be arranged according to the distance values in a descending or ascending order.

[0063] The method 200 also comprises a step 230 of selecting, from the plurality of unconfigured lighting device, the lighting device for configuration by the configuration device responsive to the first distance-responsive value and the second distance-responsive value of each unconfigured lighting device.

[0064] Thus, the choice of which unconfigured lighting device to configured next is responsive to a distance between the unconfigured lighting devices and the configuration device as well as the distance between the unconfigured lighting devices and a previously configured lighting device.

[0065] Thus, in some circumstances, based on the information from the two distance lists that may be generated in steps 210 and 220, an unconfigured lighting device may be selected for configuration.

[0066] In a first scenario, step 230 comprises calculating, for each unconfigured lighting device, a first summed or average distance-responsive value using the first distance- responsive value and the second distance-responsive value of the unconfigured lighting device. Approaches for summing or averaging two values to produce a summed or averaged values are trivial to the skilled person. Step 230 may further comprise selecting the lighting device responsive to the first summed or average distance-responsive value of each unconfigured lighting device.

[0067] By way of working example, the step of selecting the lighting device comprises selecting the unconfigured lighting device whose first summed or average distance-responsive value represents a relatively small, or a smallest distance. This effectively selects an unconfigured lighting device that is likely to be close to the configured lighting device and the configuration device, thereby selecting a lighting device that is likely to be in a same or similar direction to the configured lighting device.

[0068] In this first scenario, it is assumed that the first and second distance-responsive values are values of corresponding first and second distance-responsive parameters. Each distance-responsive parameter is measured on a same scale (e.g., are both RSSI parameters or are both time-of-flight values or are both normalized values) and are therefore comparable.

[0069] In a second scenario, step 230 may comprise selecting one of a first subset of the plurality of unconfigured lighting devices. Each unconfigured lighting device in the first subset of the plurality of unconfigured lighting devices has a first distance-responsive value that breaches a first predetermined threshold and a second distance-responsive value that breaches a second predetermined threshold.

[0070] In particular, a first distance-responsive value that breaches the first predetermined threshold indicates that an expected distance between the unconfigured lighting device and the configuration device is below a first predetermined distance. Similarly, a second distance-responsive value that breaches the second predetermined threshold indicates that an expected distance between the unconfigured lighting device and the configured lighting device is below a second predetermined distance.

[0071] It will be appreciated that some distance-responsive values (such as a time-of- flight value) will increase with increasing distances, whereas others (such as an RSSI) will decrease with increasing distances. In this context, a distance responsive value that breaches a threshold is therefore considered to be one for which a distance is below a corresponding predetermined distance.

[0072] This approach effectively selects a subset of devices that lies within predetermined range of the configuration device and the configured lighting device.

[0073] In some examples, the selection of one of the first subset may be random or pseudorandom.

[0074] In other examples, the unconfigured lighting device (in the first subset) associated with a relatively small, or the smallest second distance-responsive value in the first subset may be selected, to increase a likelihood that the selected unconfigured lighting device will lie in a similar direction to the configured lighting device.

[0075] In other examples, the unconfigured lighting device (in the first subset) associated with the relatively small, or the smallest first distance-responsive value in the first subset may be selected, to increase a likely strength of connection between the selected configuration device and the selected lighting device. In other examples, the unconfigured lighting device (in the first subset) associated with the relatively small, or the smallest sum or average of the first and second distance-responsive values may be selected, to increase a likelihood that the selected unconfigured lighting device will lie in a similar direction to the previously configured lighting devices.

[0076] In a third scenario, step 230 may comprise selecting one of a second subset of the plurality of unconfigured lighting devices. Each unconfigured lighting device in the second subset of the plurality of unconfigured lighting devices may have a second distance- responsive value that is less than or equal to the first distance-responsive value.

[0077] In this third scenario, it is assumed that the first and second distance- responsive values are values of corresponding first and second distance-responsive parameters. Each distance-responsive parameter is measured on a same scale (e.g., are both RS SI parameters or are both time-of-flight values or are both normalized values) and are therefore (directly) comparable.

[0078] This approach ensures that the selected unconfigured lighting device is closer to the configured lighting device than the configuration device, or equidistant between the two. This ensures that the unconfigured lighting device will be in a same or similar direction from the configuration device as the configured lighting device. In particular, this approach means that an angle between a first hypothetical line (connecting the configured lighting device to the configuration device) and a second hypothetical line (connected the selected unconfigured lighting device to the configuration device) will be less than 90°. This avoids selection of an unconfigured lighting device that is behind the configuration device if the configuration device faces the configured lighting device.

[0079] In one example, devices in the two lists are arranged according to distance values in a descending order, so that it’s easy for an operator of the configuration device to select a next device to be configured from the two lists. E.g., if one device is top a few on both lists, this means that this device is close to both the configuration device and the configured lighting device, very likely lies between the configuration device and the configured lighting device. So when the operator of the configuration device is facing the configured lighting device, the operator is also facing the selected next unconfigured lighting device, there is no need to move back and forth to find a unconfigured lighting device.

[0080] In some examples, the selection of one of the second subset may be random or pseudorandom. In other examples, the unconfigured lighting device (in the second subset) associated with the relatively small, or the smallest second distance-responsive value in the second subset may be selected, to increase a likelihood that the selected unconfigured lighting device will lie in a similar direction to the configured lighting device.

[0081] In other examples, the unconfigured lighting device (in the second subset) associated with the relatively small, or the smallest first distance-responsive value in the second subset may be selected, to increase a likely strength of connection between the selected configuration device and the selected lighting device.

[0082] In other examples, the unconfigured lighting device (in the second subset) associated with the relatively small, or the smallest sum or average of the first and second distance-responsive values may be selected, to increase a likelihood that the selected unconfigured lighting device will lie in a similar direction to the previously configured lighting devices.

[0083] Figure 3 illustrates a variant method 300 for selecting, from a plurality of unconfigured lighting devices, a lighting device for configuration by a configuration device. The method 300 may be performed by the configuration device itself.

[0084] The variant method 300 differs from the previously disclosed method in that a third distance-responsive value is used to aid in the selection of the unconfigured lighting device.

[0085] Thus, the method 300 further comprises a step 310 of obtaining a third distance-responsive value that changes responsive to a distance between the configuration device and the configured lighting device. Suitable examples of distance-responsive values (that are responsive to a distance between two devices) have been previously disclosed.

[0086] Step 230 may be modified to comprise selecting, from the plurality of unconfigured lighting device, the lighting device for configuration by the configuration device responsive to the first distance-responsive value, the second distance-responsive value of each unconfigured lighting device and the third distance-responsive value.

[0087] In one example, step 230 may comprise selecting one of a third subset of the plurality of unconfigured lighting devices. Each unconfigured lighting device in the third subset of the plurality of unconfigured lighting devices has a second distance-responsive value that is less than or equal to the square root of the sum of the square of the first distance- responsive value (of said unconfigured lighting device) and the square of the third distance- responsive value. Put mathematically, each unconfigured lighting device in the third subset meets the following condition: where DI is the first distance-responsive value of the unconfigured lighting device in the third subset, D2 is the second distance-responsive value of the unconfigured lighting device in the third subset and D3 is the third-distance responsive value.

[0088] In this example, is assumed that the first, second and third distance-responsive values are defined on a same scale, e.g., represent values of analogous distance-responsive values (e.g., are RSSI parameters or are time-of-flight values) or are normalized values.

[0089] This approach advantageously means that an angle between a first hypothetical line (connecting the configured lighting device to the configuration device) and a second hypothetical line (connected the selected unconfigured lighting device to the configuration device) will be less than or equal to 90°. This avoids selection of an unconfigured lighting device that is behind the configuration device if the configuration device faces the configured lighting device.

[0090] In some examples, the selection of one of the third subset may be random or pseudorandom.

[0091] In other examples, the unconfigured lighting device (in the third subset) associated with the smallest second distance-responsive value in the third subset may be selected, to increase a likelihood that the selected unconfigured lighting device will lie in a similar direction to the configured lighting device.

[0092] In other examples, the unconfigured lighting device (in the third subset) associated with the smallest first distance-responsive value in the third subset may be selected, to increase a likely strength of connection between the selected configuration device and the selected lighting device.

[0093] In other examples, the unconfigured lighting device (in the third subset) associated with the smallest sum or average of the first and second distance-responsive values may be selected, to increase a likelihood that the selected unconfigured lighting device will lie in a similar direction to the previously configured lighting devices.

[0094] Figure 4 illustrates a variant method 400 for selecting, from a plurality of unconfigured lighting devices, a lighting device for configuration by a configuration device. The method 400 may be performed by the configuration device itself. The variant method 400 differs from a previously disclosed method in that a respective further distance-responsive value, for each unconfigured lighting device, is used to aid in the selection of the unconfigured lighting device.

[0095] In particular, the method 400 further comprises a step 410 of obtaining, for each unconfigured lighting device, one or more further distance-responsive values. Each further distance-responsive value changes responsive to a distance between a respective further configured lighting device and the unconfigured lighting device. Moreover, each further configured lighting device is a lighting device previously configured by the configuration device.

[0096] The step 230 of selecting, from the plurality of unconfigured lighting device, the lighting device for configuration by the configuration device is further responsive to each further distance-responsive value.

[0097] In a first scenario, step 230 comprises calculating a second summed or average distance-responsive value using the first distance-responsive value, the second distance- responsive value and each further distance-responsive value of the unconfigured lighting device. This can be trivially performed using known summing or averaging (e.g., mean averaging) procedures.

[0098] In this first scenario, the step 230 of selecting the lighting device for configuration comprises selecting the lighting device responsive to the second summed or average distance-responsive value of each unconfigured lighting device.

[0099] By way of working example, the step of selecting the lighting device comprises selecting the unconfigured lighting device whose second summed or average distance-responsive value represents a smallest distance. This effectively selects an unconfigured lighting device that is likely to be close to each previously configured lighting device and the configuration device, thereby selecting a lighting device that is likely to be in a same or similar direction to the configured lighting devices.

[0100] In this first scenario, it is assumed that each distance-responsive value measured on a same scale (e.g., are RS SI parameters or are time-of-flight values or both normalized values) and are therefore comparable.

[0101] In a second scenario, the step 230 of selecting the lighting device comprises selecting one of a fourth subset of the plurality of unconfigured lighting devices. Each unconfigured lighting device in the fourth subset of the plurality of unconfigured lighting devices, the first distance-responsive value; the second distance-responsive value and each further distance-responsive value breaches a respective predetermined threshold. In some examples, the selection of one of the fourth subset may be random or pseudorandom.

[0102] In other examples, the unconfigured lighting device (in the fourth subset) associated with the smallest second distance-responsive value in the fourth subset may be selected, to increase a likelihood that the selected unconfigured lighting device will lie in a similar direction to the configured lighting device.

[0103] In other examples, the unconfigured lighting device (in the fourth subset) associated with the smallest first distance-responsive value in the fourth subset may be selected, to increase a likely strength of connection between the selected configuration device and the selected lighting device.

[0104] In other examples, the unconfigured lighting device (in the fourth subset) associated with the smallest sum or average of the first and second distance-responsive values may be selected, to increase a likelihood that the selected unconfigured lighting device will lie in a similar direction to the previously configured lighting devices.

[0105] In other examples, the unconfigured lighting device (in the fourth subset) associated with the smallest sum or average of the second and further distance-responsive values may be selected, to increase a likelihood that the selected unconfigured lighting device will lie in a similar direction to the previously configured lighting devices.

[0106] In other examples, the unconfigured lighting device (in the fourth subset) associated with the smallest sum or average of the first, second and further distance- responsive values may be selected.

[0107] Figure 5 illustrates a computer-implemented method 500 for configuring a lighting device using a configuration device.

[0108] The computer-implemented method 500 comprising selecting the lighting device for configuration using any previously disclosed method 200, 300, 400; and configuring 510 the selected lighting device using the configuration device. Thus, step 510 comprises performing a configuration procedure / process on the selected unconfigured lighting device.

[0109] Approaches for performing a configuration procedure on a selected unconfigured lighting device are well known in the art.

[0110] In some examples, step 510 comprises controlling the selected unconfigured lighting device to indicate that it is its turn for configuration.

[0111] This may comprise, for instance, controlling the selected unconfigured lighting device to provide feedback for facilitating localization of the selected unconfigured lighting device. For instance, the selected unconfigured lighting device may output a certain pattern of electromagnetic radiation such as light (e.g., a certain color, timing / pulsing and / or brightness pattern). The configuration device or operator thereof may identify this pattern, and perform one or more configuration tasks using the configuration device (responsive to identifying this pattern).

[0112] The output light may be visible light or non-visible light (e.g., infrared or UV light).

[0113] Even in examples in which the proposed approach is used for configuring unconfigured devices (i.e., not necessarily unconfigured lighting devices), then an unconfigured device may comprise a light emitting element for providing feedback to the configuration device.

[0114] The one or more configuration tasks may include, for instance, defining a (virtual) location of the lighting device in space or with respect to an environment model; defining to which group(s) and / or sub-group(s) of lighting devices the lighting device belongs; defining which lighting device(s) are to operate or be controlled simultaneously; and so on.

[0115] Typically, configuration tasks are adapted to configure a (lighting) device for distributed control during use of the (lighting) device. More specifically, configuration tasks are configured to commission or categorize the unconfigured (lighting) device for subsequent or later control of the (lighting) device.

[0116] The precise mechanism for configuring the selected unconfigured (lighting) device is immaterial to the herein proposed approach for selecting an unconfigured (lighting) device for configuration.

[0117] Figure 6 illustrates a configuration device 600 for configuring lighting devices.

[0118] The configuration device 600 comprises a processing system 610 for selecting, from a plurality of unconfigured lighting devices, a lighting device for configuration by the configuration device.

[0119] The processing system 610 is configured to: obtain, for each unconfigured lighting device, a first distance-responsive value that changes responsive to a distance between the configuration device and the unconfigured lighting device; obtain, for each unconfigured lighting device, a second distance-responsive value that changes responsive to a distance between a configured lighting device and the unconfigured lighting device, wherein the configured lighting device is a lighting device previously configured by the configuration device; and select, from the plurality of unconfigured lighting device, the lighting device for configuration by the configuration device responsive to the first distance-responsive value and the second distance-responsive value of each unconfigured lighting device.

[0120] Thus, the processing system 610 may be configured to perform one or more previously disclosed methods for selecting a lighting device for configuration by the configuration device.

[0121] The processing system can be implemented in numerous ways, with software and / or hardware, to perform the various functions required. A processor is one example of a processing system which employs one or more microprocessors that may be programmed using software (e.g., microcode) to perform the required functions. A processing system may however be implemented with or without employing a processor, and also may be implemented as a combination of dedicated hardware to perform some functions and a processor (e.g., one or more programmed microprocessors and associated circuitry) to perform other functions.

[0122] Examples of processing system components that may be employed in various embodiments of the present disclosure include, but are not limited to, conventional microprocessors, application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), and field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs).

[0123] In various implementations, a processor or processing system may be associated with one or more storage media such as volatile and non-volatile computer memory such as RAM, PROM, EPROM, and EEPROM. The storage media may be encoded with one or more programs that, when executed on one or more processors and / or processing systems, perform the required functions. Various storage media may be fixed within a processor or processing system or may be transportable, such that the one or more programs stored thereon can be loaded into a processor or processing system.

[0124] In some examples, the configuration device 600 comprises a wireless communication module 620 configured to wirelessly communicate with the plurality of unconfigured lighting devices. The wireless communication module may comprise, for instance, an antenna 621 and a wireless processor 622 configured to send and receive wireless signals over the antenna 621. The wireless processor 622 may form part of the processing system 610.

[0125] For each unconfigured lighting device, the first distance-responsive value may be directly responsive to a signal strength of one or more wireless signals generated by the unconfigured lighting device and received by the wireless communication module of the configuration device. The configuration device 600 may be further configured to perform a configuration procedure / process on the selected unconfigured lighting device. This can be achieved using the processing system 610 that communicates with the selected unconfigured lighting device via wireless signals controlled via the wireless communication module.

[0126] The configuration may be at least partially responsive to user input received at a user interface 630, e.g., to indicate which configuration tasks are to be performed and / or define the actions performed during a configuration task.

[0127] One particularly useful use-case scenario for the proposed approach for selecting an unconfigured lighting device is in circumstances in which the configuration device makes use of an augmented reality (AR) or mixed reality (MR) user interface to aid an operator of the configuration device to perform or control the configuration procedure / process (e.g., to aid in highlighting or identifying the unconfigured lighting device).

[0128] This is because the proposed approach reduces a likelihood that the selected unconfigured lighting device will be behind the operator (who will be facing the configured lighting device), thereby reduces a need for the operator to rotate back and forth in search of the surrounding space for the unconfigured lighting device.

[0129] Thus, in at least one example, the user interface 630 comprises an AR / MR user interface, such as a display or screen appropriately controlled to provide an AR / MR visual representation. Where appropriate, the configuration device 600 may comprise a camera for capturing a view of the configuration device for display at the AR / MR user interface.

[0130] The skilled person would be readily capable of developing a processing system for carrying out any herein described method. Thus, each step of the flow chart may represent a different action performed by a processing system, and may be performed by a respective module of the processing system.

[0131] Embodiments may therefore make use of a processing system. Examples of a processing system have been previously disclosed, and embodiments may be adapted accordingly.

[0132] It will be understood that disclosed methods are preferably computer- implemented methods. As such, there is also proposed the concept of a computer program comprising code means for implementing any described method when said program is run on a processing system, such as a computer. Thus, different portions, lines or blocks of code of a computer program according to an embodiment may be executed by a processing system or computer to perform any herein described method.

[0133] There is also proposed a non-transitory storage medium that stores or carries a computer program or computer code that, when executed by a processing system, causes the processing system to carry out any herein described method.

[0134] In some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the block diagram(s) or flow chart(s) may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, two blocks shown in succession may, in fact, be executed substantially concurrently, or the blocks may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality involved.

[0135] Variations to the disclosed embodiments can be understood and effected by those skilled in the art in practicing the claimed invention, from a study of the drawings, the disclosure and the appended claims. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage.

[0136] In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. If the term "adapted to" is used in the claims or description, it is noted the term "adapted to" is intended to be equivalent to the term "configured to". If the term "arrangement" is used in the claims or description, it is noted the term "arrangement" is intended to be equivalent to the term "system", and vice versa.

[0137] A single processor or other unit may fulfill the functions of several items recited in the claims. If a computer program is discussed above, it may be stored / distributed on a suitable medium, such as an optical storage medium or a solid-state medium supplied together with or as part of other hardware, but may also be distributed in other forms, such as via the Internet or other wired or wireless telecommunication systems.

[0138] Any reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A computer-implemented method (200, 300, 400) for selecting, from a plurality of unconfigured devices (111, 112, 113), a device for configuration by a configuration device (150, 600), the computer-implemented method comprising: obtaining (210), for each unconfigured device of the plurality of unconfigured devices, a first distance-responsive value that changes responsive to a distance between the configuration device (150) and the unconfigured device (111, 112, 113); generating a first list indicating the distances between the configuration device and a plurality of unconfigured devices; obtaining (220), for each unconfigured device of the plurality of unconfigured devices, a second distance-responsive value that changes responsive to a distance between a configured device (120) and the unconfigured device, wherein the configured device is a device previously configured by the configuration device; generating a second list indicating the distances between the configured device and a plurality of unconfigured devices; and selecting (230), based on the two lists, from the plurality of unconfigured devices, the device for configuration by the configuration device responsive to each first distance-responsive value and each second distance-responsive value of each unconfigured device.

2. The computer-implemented method (200, 300, 400) of claim 1, further comprising calculating, for each unconfigured device, a first summed or average distance- responsive value using the first distance-responsive value and the second distance-responsive value of the unconfigured device, wherein the step of selecting the device for configuration comprises selecting the device for configuration responsive to the first summed or average distance-responsive value of each unconfigured device.

3. The computer-implemented method (200, 300, 400) of claim 2, wherein the step of selecting the device for configuration comprises selecting the unconfigured device whose first summed or average distance-responsive value represents a smallest distance.

4. The computer-implemented method (200, 300, 400) of any of claims 1 to 2, wherein the step of selecting the device for configuration comprises selecting one of a first subset of the plurality of unconfigured devices, wherein each unconfigured device in the first subset of the plurality of unconfigured devices has a first distance-responsive value that breaches a first predetermined threshold and a second-distance-responsive value that breaches a second predetermined threshold.

5. The computer-implemented method (200, 300, 400) of claim 4, wherein: for each unconfigured lighting deice, a first distance-responsive value that breaches the first predetermined threshold indicates that an expected distance between the unconfigured device and the configuration device is below a first predetermined distance; and for each unconfigured lighting deice, a second distance-responsive value that breaches the second predetermined threshold indicates that an expected distance between the unconfigured device and the configured device is below a second predetermined distance.

6. The computer-implemented method (200, 300, 400) of any of claims 1 to 5, wherein: the configuration device is configured to wirelessly communicate with each unconfigured device; for each unconfigured device, the first distance-responsive value is directly responsive to a signal strength of one or more wireless signals generated by the unconfigured device and received by the configuration device; the configured device is configured to receive one or more wireless signals generated by each unconfigured device; and for each unconfigured device, the second distance-responsive value is directly responsive to a signal strength of the one or more wireless signals generated by the unconfigured device and received by the configured device.

7. The computer-implemented method (400) of any of claims 1 to 6, further comprising obtaining ( 10), for each unconfigured device, one or more further distance- responsive values, wherein: each further distance-responsive value changes responsive to a distance between a respective another configured device and the unconfigured device; each another configured device is a device previously configured by the configuration device; and the step of selecting, from the plurality of unconfigured device, the device for configuration by the configuration device is further responsive to each further distance- responsive value.

8. The computer-implemented method (400) of claim 7, further comprising calculating, for each unconfigured device, a second summed or average distance-responsive value using the first distance-responsive value, the second distance-responsive value and each of the one or more further distance-responsive value of the unconfigured device, wherein the step of selecting the device for configuration comprises selecting the device responsive to the second summed or average distance-responsive value of each unconfigured device.

9. The computer-implemented method (400) of claim 7 or 8, wherein the step of selecting the device comprises selecting one of a second subset of the plurality of unconfigured devices, wherein, for each unconfigured device in the second subset of the plurality of unconfigured devices, the first distance-responsive value, the second distance-responsive value and each further distance-responsive value breaches a respective predetermined threshold.

10. A computer-implemented method (500) for configuring a device using a configuration device, the computer-implemented method comprising: selecting (200, 300, 400) the device for configuration using the method of any of claims 1 to 9; and configuring (510) the selected device for configuration using the configuration device.

11. The computer-implemented method of claim 10, further comprising generating, using the selected device for configuration, feedback for identifying the selected device for configuration to the configuration device.

12. The computer-implemented method of claim 11, wherein the feedback comprises one or more electromagnetic signals for detection by the configuration device.

13. A computer program product comprising computer program code means which, when executed on a computing device having a processing system, cause the processing system to perform all of the steps of the method according to any of claims 1 to 10.

14. A processing system (610) for selecting, from a plurality of unconfigured devices, a device for configuration by a configuration device, the processing system being configured to: obtain, for each unconfigured device of the plurality of unconfigured devices, a first distance-responsive value that changes responsive to a distance between the configuration device and the unconfigured device; generating a first list indicating the distances between the configuration device and a plurality of unconfigured devices; obtain, for each unconfigured device of the plurality of unconfigured devices, a second distance-responsive value that changes responsive to a distance between a configured device and the unconfigured device, wherein the configured device is a device previously configured by the configuration device; generating a second list indicating the distances between the configured device and a plurality of unconfigured devices; and select, based on the two lists, from the plurality of unconfigured device, the device for configuration by the configuration device responsive to each first distance- responsive value and each second distance-responsive value of each unconfigured device.

15. A configuration device (600) for configuring devices, the configuration device comprising the processing system (610) of claim 14.

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