Lighting system and quality determination method for lighting system

A lighting system includes: a wireless communication device that transmits a test signal; luminaires that measure a signal strength of the test signal upon receipt and transmit signal strength information on the signal strength to the wireless communication device; and a determining unit that determines a condition of the lighting system based on the signal strength or the signal strength information. The determining unit: determines the condition of the lighting system to be acceptable upon confirming transmission of the signal strength information by all luminaires and unacceptable upon failing to confirm transmission of the signal strength information by at least one luminaire; or determines the condition of the lighting system to be acceptable when each signal strength measured by all luminaires exceeds a reference value and unacceptable when the signal strength measured by at least one luminaire is less than or equal to the reference value.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of priority of Japanese Patent Application Number 2017-122556 filed on Jun. 22, 2017, the entire content of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND

1. Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to a lighting system including a luminaire and a wireless communication device, and to a quality determination method for such a lighting system.

2. Description of the Related Art

Conventionally, a lighting system including a plurality of luminaires and a wireless communication device that communicates with the plurality of luminaires is known (for example, see Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2016-178014). With this type of lighting system, pairing is performed between the wireless communication device and each of the luminaires after the wireless communication device and the plurality of luminaires have been installed on, for example, a structure of a building.

SUMMARY

However, for example, when there are many luminaires and the pairing process takes a number of days to complete, there are cases when the radio wave environment of the wireless communication device and plurality of luminaires changes before the pairing process is complete due to, for example, new equipment being installed in the building. Accordingly, there are cases in which the luminaires do not operate as intended by the user when the settings in the lighting system are the same as before the change in the radio wave environment.

In view of this, the present disclosure has an object to provide, for example, a lighting system that can improve reliability in relation to the radio wave environment.

A lighting system according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes: a wireless communication device that transmits a test signal which is an instruction to measure signal strength; a plurality of luminaires, each of which, upon receiving the test signal, measures a signal strength of the test signal and transmits signal strength information on the signal strength to the wireless communication device; and a determining unit configured to determine a condition of the lighting system based on one of the signal strength and the signal strength information. The determining unit is configured to: (i) determine the condition of the lighting system to be acceptable upon confirming transmission of the signal strength information by all of the plurality of luminaires, and determine the condition of the lighting system to be unacceptable upon failing to confirm transmission of the signal strength information by at least one of the plurality of luminaires; or (ii) determine the condition of the lighting system to be acceptable when each of the signal strengths measured by all of the plurality of luminaires exceeds a reference value, and determine the condition of the lighting system to be unacceptable when the signal strength measured by at least one of the plurality of luminaires is less than or equal to the reference value.

A quality determination method according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a method for a lighting system including a plurality of luminaires and a wireless communication device that communicates with the plurality of luminaires, and includes: transmitting a test signal from the wireless communication device to the plurality of luminaires, the test signal being an instruction to measure signal strength; measuring, by each of the plurality of luminaires, a signal strength of the test signal upon receiving the test signal, and transmitting, by each of the plurality of luminaires, signal strength information on the signal strength to the wireless communication device; and (i) determining the condition of the lighting system to be acceptable upon confirming transmission of the signal strength information by all of the plurality of luminaires, and determining the condition of the lighting system to be unacceptable upon failing to confirm transmission of the signal strength information by at least one of the plurality of luminaires, or (ii) determining the condition of the lighting system to be acceptable when each of the signal strengths measured by all of the plurality of luminaires exceeds a reference value, and determining the condition of the lighting system to be unacceptable when the signal strength measured by at least one of the plurality of luminaires is less than or equal to the reference value.

A lighting system, etc., according to the present disclosure can improve reliability in relation to the radio wave environment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

First, an outline of the lighting system according to this embodiment will be given.FIG. 1is a schematic diagram comparing a conventional lighting system and the lighting system according to Embodiment 1.

These lighting systems include a plurality of luminaires and a wireless communication device that communicates with the plurality of luminaires. With these lighting systems, pairing is performed between the wireless communication device and each of the luminaires after the wireless communication device and plurality of luminaires have been installed on, for example, a structure of a building. Pairing makes it possible to specify communication partners among the wireless communication device and luminaires. With the conventional lighting system, more often than not, the lighting system is handed over to the user after pairing is complete, in a state in which the initial settings are still in place, as illustrated in (a) inFIG. 1.

However, when the pairing process takes a number of days to complete, there are cases when the radio wave environment of the wireless communication device and plurality of luminaires changes as a result of, for example, new equipment being installed in the building. Accordingly, there are cases in which the luminaires do not operate as intended by the user when the settings in the lighting system are the same as before the change in the radio wave environment.

In view of this, in this embodiment, before the lighting system is handed over to the user, the radio wave environment of the lighting system is checked and the lighting system is placed in a state in which operation can be guaranteed, as illustrated in (b) inFIG. 1. Note that a state in which operation can be guaranteed refers to a state in which the lighting system can be handed over to the user in good conscience.

The following describes exemplary embodiments of the lighting system, etc., according to the present disclosure with reference to the drawings. Each of the embodiments described below is merely one specific example of the present disclosure. The numerical values, shapes, materials, elements, arrangement and connection of the elements, etc., indicated in the following embodiments are given merely by way of illustration and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. Therefore, among elements in the following embodiments, those not recited in any one of the independent claims defining the broadest concept of the present disclosure are described as optional elements.

Note that the figures are schematic illustrations and are not necessarily precise depictions. Moreover, in the figures, elements that are essentially the same share like reference signs. Accordingly, duplicate description is omitted or simplified.

FIG. 2Ais a diagram of lighting system100according to Embodiment 1.FIG. 2Bis a block diagram illustrating the configuration of lighting system100.

Lighting system100includes a plurality of luminaires1and2through n (n is an integer greater than or equal to 2), wireless communication device21, and terminal device30. Luminaires1through n are each capable of communicating with wireless communication device21over radio r1. Examples of communication schemes used over radio r1include specified low power radio that uses a frequency in the 920 MHz or 2.4 GHz band, Zigbee®, Bluetooth®, and WiFi®. Terminal device30is capable of communicating with wireless communication device21over radio r2via, for example, WiFi®.

Luminaires1through n are, for example, LED lights. Conceivably, over 100 luminaires1through n may be installed on a structure (e.g., ceiling) of a building. Hereinafter, the description will be based around luminaire1, which is presented as a representative luminaire from among luminaires1through n.

Luminaire1includes: communication unit10athat communicates with wireless communication device21external to luminaire1; lamp unit10b; and control unit10cconnected to communication unit10aand lamp unit10b.

Communication unit10aincludes, for example, an antenna and a wireless module. As previously described, communication unit10acommunicates with wireless communication device21over radio r1.

Lamp unit10bincludes a plurality of light sources, such as light-emitting diodes that emit, for example white, red, green, and/or blue light.

Control unit10cincludes, for example, a central processing unit (CPU), random access memory (RAM), and read-only memory (ROM). An identifier that identifies luminaire1, such as a media access control (MAC) address, is stored in control unit10c. For example, control unit10ccontrols the operating state of lamp unit10bbased on an instruction from terminal device30.

Control unit10calso includes measuring unit10dthat measures signal strength. More specifically, based on the test signal, which is an instruction transmitted from wireless communication device21to measure signal strength, measuring unit10dmeasures the signal strength of the test signal itself. Signal strength information on the measured signal strength is transmitted to wireless communication device21via communication unit10a.

Wireless communication device21is, for example, a wireless controller or wireless adapter. Wireless communication device21includes: communication unit20athat communicates with luminaire1; communication unit20bthat communicates with terminal device30; and control unit20cconnected to communication unit20aand communication unit20b.

Communication unit20aand communication unit20beach include, for example, an antenna and a wireless module. As previously described, communication unit20bcommunicates with terminal device30over radio r2.

For example, control unit20cincludes a CPU, RAM, and ROM. An identifier that identifies wireless communication device21, such as a MAC address, is stored in control unit20c. Control unit20creceives, via communication unit20b, a measurement start signal originating from terminal device30. A measurement start signal is an instruction to start measurement of signal strength in lighting system100. Upon receiving this measurement start signal, control unit20ctransmits the test signal to luminaires1through n via communication unit20a.

Moreover, control unit20caggregates the signal strength information measured and transmitted by luminaires1through n, and transmits the aggregate information to terminal device30via communication unit20b.

Via wireless communication device21, terminal device30sets settings or performs control relating to causing luminaires1through n to emit light. When wireless communication device21functions as a slave, terminal device30is equivalent to a master controller. Terminal device30illustrated inFIG. 2Ais exemplified as a hand-held terminal, but may be a stationary computer terminal.

Terminal device30includes: communication unit30a; display input unit30b; and control unit30cconnected to communication unit30aand display input unit30b. Control unit30cincludes determining unit30d, storage unit30e, and comparing unit30f.

Communication unit30aincludes, for example, an antenna and a wireless module. As previously described, communication unit30acommunicates with wireless communication device21over radio r2. Note that communication unit30aand wireless communication device21may be configured to communicate over a wired connection.

For example, display input unit30bis a touch panel and displays the reception quality of luminaires1through n, and also receives inputs for wireless communication device21and luminaires1through n.

Control unit30cincludes a CPU. Control unit30ctransmits a command inputted by operating a key or keys on display input unit30bto wireless communication device21via communication unit30a. For example, storage unit30eincludes RAM and ROM. A layout map for luminaires1through n and wireless communication device21in the building is stored in storage unit30e. Additionally, the above-described signal strength information is also stored in storage unit30e. Comparing unit30foutputs a comparison result to display input unit30bbased on signal strength information stored in storage unit30e. Determining unit30ddetermines whether the condition of the radio wave environment in lighting system100is acceptable or not based on the plurality of items of signal strength information transmitted from wireless communication device21.

In this embodiment, determining unit30ddetermines the condition of lighting system100to be acceptable upon confirming transmission of signal strength information from all luminaires1through n, via wireless communication device21. Moreover, determining unit30ddetermines the condition of lighting system100to be unacceptable upon failing to confirm transmission of signal strength information by at least one of luminaires1through n. In this way, with lighting system100according to this embodiment, it is possible to check the radio wave environment of lighting system100and thus improve the reliability of lighting system100.

(1-3. Lighting System Quality Determination Method)

Next, the quality determination method for lighting system100will be described.FIG. 2Cis a flow chart illustrating the quality determination for lighting system100.FIG. 2Dillustrates display input unit30bincluded in terminal device30in lighting system100.

First, the previously described measurement start signal is transmitted from terminal device30to wireless communication device21. More specifically, the measurement start signal is transmitted upon the “start confirmation” icon displayed on display input unit30bin (a) inFIG. 2Dbeing pressed. This causes display input unit30bto display the screen illustrated in (b) inFIG. 2Dindicating that quality determination is being performed (“confirming” in (b)FIG. 2D).

As illustrated inFIG. 2C, upon receipt of the measurement start signal, wireless communication device21transmits a test signal to luminaires1through n, which constitute the group of luminaires that are controlled. This signal may be transmitted to each luminaire1through n individually via unicast or transmitted to each luminaire1through n at once via multicast.

Having received the test signal, each luminaire1through n automatically measures the signal strength of the received test signal. Each luminaire1through n then transmits signal strength information on the signal strength to wireless communication device21. The signal strength information includes the measured signal strength (i.e., includes a received signal strength indicator (RSSI)). The signal strength information may include information on the date and time that the signal strength was measured, and may include an identifier that identifies the corresponding luminaire.

Next, wireless communication device21automatically aggregates the transmitted signal strength information, and transmits the aggregate signal strength information to terminal device30. In addition to the signal strength, the signal strength information transmitted from wireless communication device21may include information on the date and time that the signal strength was aggregated, and may include an identifier that identifies wireless communication device21. Note that the signal strength information may be, but is not limited to being, transmitted to terminal device30after being aggregated by control unit20cas described above; each item of signal strength information may be aggregated by terminal device30after being individually transmitted to terminal device30.

Next, terminal device30automatically determines whether the condition of the radio wave environment is acceptable or not based on the transmitted signal strength information. In this embodiment, determining unit30din terminal device30determines the condition of lighting system100to be acceptable upon confirming transmission of the signal strength information by all luminaires1through n, and determines the condition of lighting system100to be unacceptable upon failing to confirm transmission of the signal strength information by at least one of luminaires1through n. The determination result is then displayed on display input unit30b. For example, when the determination result is “fail” (indicating that the condition of lighting system100is unacceptable), a “fail” screen such as the one illustrated in (c) inFIG. 2Dis displayed, and when the determination result is “pass” (indicating that the condition of lighting system100is acceptable), a “pass” screen such as the one illustrated in (d) inFIG. 2Dis displayed.

More specifically, the quality determination is performed based on the flow chart illustrated inFIG. 2E.FIG. 2Eis a flow chart of the process for confirming whether signal strength information has been transmitted or not in lighting system100according to Embodiment 1.

Terminal device30illustrated inFIG. 2Esequentially confirms, from the first luminaire, luminaire1, to the n-th luminaire, luminaire n, the following (Y in S11). For example, when control unit30cpossesses information on luminaire1(Y in S12), that is to say, when control unit30cconfirms that luminaire1has transmitted signal strength information, luminaire1is classified into the “pass” (acceptable condition) category (S13). However, when control unit30cdoes not possess information on luminaire1(N in S12), that is to say, when control unit30cfails to confirm that luminaire1has transmitted signal strength information, luminaire1is classified into the “fail” (unacceptable condition) category (S14). When this classification is complete, the process returns to step S11and the same processes are repeated for luminaires2through n. When confirmation for all luminaires1through n is complete (N in S11), the process continues to the next step, where it is confirmed whether or not any of the luminaires were classified into the “fail” category (S21). Here, if no luminaires have been classified into the “fail” category (Y in S21), the condition of lighting system100is determined to be acceptable, and the “pass” screen is displayed on display input unit30b(S22). If a luminaire has been classified into the “fail” category (N in S21), the condition of lighting system100is determined to be unacceptable, and the “fail” screen is displayed on display input unit30b(S23).

Examples of conceivable situations that lead to the “fail” screen include when an obstruction is placed between wireless communication device21and a luminaire after the two have been paired and when a luminaire malfunctions after being paired, but so long as the above-described quality determination is performed, it is possible to implement a measure for placing lighting system100in acceptable condition. In other words, it is possible to improve reliability in relation to the radio wave environment of lighting system100by performing the quality determination according to this embodiment before handing lighting system100over to the user.

Moreover, in this embodiment, after the measurement start signal is transmitted from terminal device30, the determination result can be obtained automatically without having to perform any special operations on, for example, terminal device30. Since the determination result can be obtained with a “one touch” operation, the work efficiency of the person who performs operations for determining the quality of lighting system100can be improved.

Next, lighting system100according to Embodiment 2 will be described. With lighting system100according to Embodiment 2, the quality determination for lighting system100is performed based on the magnitude of the signal strength.

FIG. 3is a flow chart of the process for checking the signal strength in lighting system100according to Embodiment 2.

As illustratedFIG. 3, in the same step S12as in Embodiment 1, after terminal device30confirms that the signal strength information has been transmitted (Y in S12), the magnitude of the signal strength included in the signal strength information is checked (S12A). More specifically, when the signal strength transmitted by luminaire1is greater than a predetermined reference value (signal strength X) (Y in512A), luminaire1is classified into the “pass” category (S13). When the signal strength is less than or equal to the reference value (N in S12A), luminaire1is classified into the “fail” category (S14). When this classification is complete, the process returns to step S11and the same processes are repeated for luminaires2through n. Then, if no luminaires have been classified into the “fail” category (Y in S21), determining unit30ddetermines the condition of lighting system100to be acceptable, and if a luminaire has been classified into the “fail” category (N in S21), determining unit30ddetermines the condition of lighting system100to be unacceptable.

In this way, with lighting system100according to Embodiment 2, it is possible to accurately know whether the condition of lighting system100is acceptable or not by checking the magnitude of the signal strengths from wireless communication device21and luminaires1through n. This makes it possible to improve reliability in relation to the radio wave environment of lighting system100.

Next, lighting system100according to Embodiment 3 will be described. In Embodiment 3, the aggregation of the signal strength information in Embodiment 1 is performed a plurality of times. This embodiment is implemented, for example, when lighting system100is used in an unstable radio wave environment.

FIG. 4Ais a flow chart of the quality determination for lighting system100according to Embodiment 3.

First, a first measurement start signal is transmitted from terminal device30to wireless communication device21. Upon receipt of this measurement start signal, wireless communication device21requests transmission of signal strengths from luminaires1through n, which constitute the group of luminaires that are controlled. Having received the transmission request, each luminaire1through n then transmits first signal strength information to wireless communication device21. Wireless communication device21then aggregates the first signal strength information and transmits the aggregate first signal strength information to terminal device30.

Having received the first signal strength information, terminal device30automatically transmits a second measurement start signal to wireless communication device21. Upon receipt of this measurement start signal, wireless communication device21requests transmission of signal strengths from the same luminaires1through n that transmitted the first signal strength information. Having received the transmission request, each luminaire1through n then transmits second signal strength information to wireless communication device21. Wireless communication device21then aggregates the second signal strength information and transmits the aggregate second signal strength information to terminal device30.

Similarly, in terminal device30, wireless communication device21, and luminaires1through n, the above-described measurement start signal transmission, signal strength transmission request, and signal strength information transmission and aggregation are performed automatically. Determining unit30dchecks the aggregate signal strength information and determines the condition of lighting system100to be acceptable if the number of times the signal strength information has been transmitted is greater than or equal to a reference number of times (X times), and determines the condition of lighting system100to be unacceptable if less than the reference number of times.

FIG. 4Bis a flow chart of the process for checking the number of times that the signal strength information has been transmitted in lighting system100according to Embodiment 3.

As illustrated inFIG. 4B, terminal device30sequentially confirms, from the first luminaire, luminaire1, to the n-th luminaire, luminaire n, the following (Y in S11). For example, if information relating to luminaire1has been present X or more times in control unit30c(Y in S12B), that is to say, when it is confirmed that the number of times the information has been transmitted from luminaire1is greater than or equal to the reference number of times luminaire1is classified into the “pass” category (S13). However, if information relating to luminaire1has not been present X or more times in control unit30c(N in S12B), that is to say, when it is not confirmed that the number of times the information has been transmitted from luminaire1is greater than or equal to the reference number of times, luminaire1is classified into the “fail” category (S14). When this classification is complete, the process returns to step S11and the same processes are repeated for luminaires2through n. Then, just like in Embodiment 1, if no luminaires have been classified into the “fail” category (Y in S21), determining unit30ddetermines the condition of lighting system100to be acceptable, and if a luminaire has been classified into the “fail” category (N in S21), determining unit30ddetermines the condition of lighting system100to be unacceptable.

In this way, with lighting system100according to Embodiment 3, it is possible to increase the degree of certainty of the information obtained by checking the number of times that the signal strength information has been transmitted. This makes it possible to improve reliability of lighting system100even when lighting system100is placed in an unstable radio wave environment.

Next, lighting system100A according to Embodiment 4 will be described.FIG. 5Ais a diagram of lighting system100A.FIG. 5Bis a block diagram illustrating the configuration of lighting system100A.

Lighting system100A according to Embodiment 4 includes: luminaire groups11,12, and13each including luminaires1through n; wireless communication devices21,22, and23; lighting controller40; and terminal device30. Luminaires1through n in luminaire group11are capable of communicating with wireless communication device21over radio r1, luminaires1through n in luminaire group12are capable of communicating with wireless communication device22over radio r1, and luminaires1through n in luminaire group13are capable of communicating with wireless communication device23over radio r1. Wireless communication devices21,22, and23are connected to lighting controller40via a wired connection. Terminal device30is capable of communicating with lighting controller40over radio r3.

Wireless communication devices21through23each include: communication unit20athat communicates with luminaires1through n; communication unit20bthat communicates with lighting controller40; and control unit20cconnected to communication unit20aand communication unit20b. Control unit20creceives, from terminal device30, a measurement start signal originating from lighting controller40. Upon receiving this measurement start signal, control unit20ctransmits a test signal to luminaires1through n under its control via communication unit20a. Moreover, control unit20caggregates the signal strength information transmitted from luminaires1through n under its control, and transmits the aggregate information to lighting controller40via communication unit20b.

Lighting controller40is a master controller that controls wireless communication devices21through23. Lighting controller40includes: communication unit40a; communication unit40b; and control unit40cconnected to communication unit40aand communication unit40b. Upon receiving a measurement start signal from terminal device30, control unit40ctransmits a measurement start signal to wireless communication devices21through23via communication unit40a. Moreover, control unit40ctransmits, to terminal device30via communication unit40b, aggregate information on the signal strength information transmitted from wireless communication devices21through23.

Terminal device30includes: communication unit30a; display input unit30b; and control unit30cconnected to communication unit30aand display input unit30b. Control unit30cincludes determining unit30d, storage unit30e, and comparing unit30f. Control unit30ctransmits a command inputted by operating a key or keys on display input unit30bto lighting controller40via communication unit30a. Determining unit30ddetermines whether the condition of the radio wave environment in lighting system100is acceptable or not based on the plurality of items of signal strength information transmitted from lighting controller40.

In this embodiment, determining unit30din terminal device30determines the condition of lighting system100A to be acceptable when each of the signal strengths measured by all luminaires1through n in luminaire groups11through13exceeds a reference value. Moreover, determining unit30ddetermines the condition of lighting system100A to be unacceptable when the signal strength measured by at least one of luminaires1through n in luminaire groups11through13is less than or equal to the reference value.

(4-2. Lighting System Quality Determination Method)

Next, the quality determination method for lighting system100A will be described.FIG. 5Cis a flow chart illustrating the quality determination for lighting system100A.

First, a first measurement start signal is transmitted from terminal device30to lighting controller40. Upon receiving this measurement start signal, lighting controller40transmits a measurement start signal to wireless communication device21. Wireless communication device21requests transmission of signal strengths from luminaires1through n in luminaire group11under its control. Having received the transmission request, each of these luminaires1through n then transmits signal strength information to wireless communication device21. Wireless communication device21then aggregates the signal strength information and transmits the aggregate information to lighting controller40. Furthermore, lighting controller40then transmits the signal strength information aggregated by wireless communication device21to terminal device30.

Next, having received the signal strength information from wireless communication device21, lighting controller40automatically transmits a measurement start signal to wireless communication device22. Upon receipt of this measurement start signal, wireless communication device22requests transmission of signal strengths from luminaires1through n in luminaire group12under its control. Having received the transmission request, each of these luminaires1through n then transmits signal strength information to wireless communication device22. Wireless communication device22then aggregates the signal strength information and transmits the aggregate information to lighting controller40. Furthermore, lighting controller40then transmits the signal strength information aggregated by wireless communication device22to terminal device30.

Similarly, in terminal device30, lighting controller40, wireless communication devices21through23, and luminaire groups11through13, the above-described measurement start signal transmission, signal strength transmission request, and signal strength information transmission and aggregation are performed. Determining unit30dchecks the aggregate signal strength information and determines the condition of lighting system100A to be acceptable if each of the signal strengths measured by all luminaires1through n in luminaire groups11through13exceeds a reference value. Moreover, determining unit30ddetermines the condition of lighting system100A to be unacceptable if the signal strength measured by at least one of luminaires1through n in luminaire groups11through13is less than or equal to the reference value.

In this way, with lighting system100A according to Embodiment 4, even when there are a plurality of wireless communication devices21through23, it is possible to accurately know whether the condition of lighting system100A is acceptable or not by checking the magnitude of the signal strength in lighting system100A. This makes it possible to improve reliability in relation to the radio wave environment of lighting system100A.

Moreover, in this embodiment, even when a plurality of wireless communication devices21through23are included, after the measurement start signal is transmitted from terminal device30, the determination result can be obtained automatically without having to perform any special operations on, for example, terminal device30. Since the determination result can be obtained with a “one touch” operation, the work efficiency of the person who performs operations for determining the quality of lighting system100A can be improved.

Next, lighting system100according to Embodiment 5 will be described. In Embodiment 5, the measurement of the signal strength described in Embodiment 2 is retried (repeated).

FIG. 6Ais a flow chart of the quality determination for lighting system100according to Embodiment 5.FIG. 6Bis a diagram of display input unit30bincluded in terminal device30in lighting system100according to Embodiment 5.

In Embodiment 5, first, a measurement start signal is transmitted from terminal device30to wireless communication device21. As illustrated inFIG. 6A, upon receipt of the measurement start signal, wireless communication device21transmits a test signal to luminaires1through n under its control. Having received this test signal, each luminaire1through n then transmits signal strength information on the signal strength to wireless communication device21.

At this stage, the signal strength between wireless communication device21and luminaire2in lighting system100is weak, and the signal strength included in the signal strength information transmitted by luminaire radio2is less than or equal to a reference value. Since the signal strength is less than or equal to the reference value, the condition of lighting system100is unacceptable, and as illustrated in (c) inFIG. 6B, a “fail” screen is displayed on display input unit30bin terminal device30. Terminal device30stores an identifier related to luminaire2determined to belong to the “fail” category.

The measured signal strength values vary to a certain degree depending on the time of day of measurement or due to influence from an external radio wave environment, for example. Accordingly, in Embodiment 5, processes are performed for confirming whether luminaire2initially classified into the “fail” category actually belongs in the “fail” category or not by retrying the signal strength measurement.

More specifically, terminal device30displays a screen for receiving an input of whether to retransmit the test signal to luminaire2, whose signal strength was less than or equal to the reference value. Then, when the “reconfirm” icon is pressed in (c) inFIG. 6Band a command for retransmitting the test signal is received, terminal device30transmits, to wireless communication device21, a measurement start signal that designates luminaire2as a target for measurement. Upon receipt of the measurement start signal, wireless communication device21transmits a test signal to luminaire2, as illustrated inFIG. 6A. Having received this test signal, luminaire2then measures the signal strength and transmits signal strength information on the signal strength to wireless communication device21. Wireless communication device21then transmits the transmitted signal strength information to terminal device30.

Determining unit30din terminal device30once again performs quality determination for lighting system100based on the transmitted signal strength information. For example, if the signal strength for luminaire2is greater than or equal to the reference value, determining unit30ddetermines the condition of the radio wave environment of lighting system100to be acceptable, and displays a “pass” screen on display input unit30b, such as the screen illustrated in (d) inFIG. 6B. Note that if the signal strength is less than the reference value, the “fail” screen is once again displayed on display unit30b.

In this embodiment, even if the signal strength varies in lighting system100, it is possible to increase the degree of certainty of the measurement result of the signal strength. Moreover, since the test signal is only retransmitted to luminaire2classified into the “fail” category, compared to when the test signal is retransmitted to all luminaires1through n, signal strength information can be obtained more efficiently.

Moreover, in this embodiment, even if the “fail” screen is initially displayed, it is possible to obtain a new determination result once again via a simple operation. Accordingly, this improves the work efficiency of the person who performs operations for determining the quality of lighting system100.

Next, lighting system100according to Embodiment 6 will be described. In Embodiment 6, the “retry” process described in Embodiment 5 is performed a plurality of times.

FIG. 7is a diagram of display input unit30bincluded in terminal device30in lighting system100according to Embodiment 6.

With lighting system100according to Embodiment 6, the number of times that the retry process described in Embodiment 5 is performed is counted. The number of times that the retry process is performed (hereinafter “retry count”) is counted by, for example, control unit30cin terminal device30. When the retry count exceeds specified number of times X that is determined in advance, the retry process is ended and the screen changes to a user support screen, as illustrated in (d) inFIG. 7. The support screen displays support information for resolving the unacceptable (“fail”) condition (trouble shooting or problem resolving examples), or, for example, supplier contact information.

By limiting the retry count as in Embodiment 6, it is possible to limit the number of times the user has to perform the same actions. With this, when the retry process is performed in lighting system100, it is possible to reduce the amount of time wasted by the user.

Next, lighting system100according to Embodiment 7 will be described. In Embodiment 7, the signal strengths measured by luminaires1through n are displayed visually on display input unit30b.

FIG. 8is a diagram of display input unit30bincluded in terminal device30in lighting system100according to Embodiment 7.

In Embodiment 7, after a “fail” or “pass” screen is displayed, an operation can be performed to display the signal strength in order to grasp the reception quality of luminaires1through n. More specifically, when the “next” icon is pressed in (c) or (d) inFIG. 8, the signal strengths of luminaires1through n are displayed in four stages (strong, good, normal, unconfirmed) via four patterns, as illustrated in (e) or (f) inFIG. 8. Note that the method for indicating signal strength is not limited to the above described patterns; for example, the value of the signal strengths may be displayed.

As with Embodiment 7, by displaying the reception quality of luminaires1through n on the screen of terminal device30, the user can easily grasp the reception quality of lighting system100.

Embodiment 8 relates to cases where the pairing process is stopped. For example, when a partition or new, large equipment is placed in a building, there may be a need to stop the pairing process. In such cases, among luminaires1through n, luminaires1through k (k is an integer lower than n) are paired with wireless communication device21, and luminaires k+1 through n, which are different from luminaires1through k, are not paired with wireless communication device21.

FIG. 9is a flow chart of the quality determination for lighting system100according to Embodiment 8.

In preparation for stopping the pairing process, in lighting system100, a test signal is transmitted to luminaires1through k from wireless communication device21. Having received this test signal, luminaires1through k then measure the signal strength of the test signal and transmit signal strength information on the signal strength to wireless communication device21. Wireless communication device21aggregates this signal strength information and transmits the aggregate information to terminal device30. Then, in storage unit30eof terminal device30, signal strength information on luminaires1through k is stored.

Next, the process of resuming the pairing process after the above-described signal strength information is stored will be described. First, the pairing of all luminaires1through n with wireless communication device21is completed. In this embodiment, the work does not end with the pairing process; additionally, the reception quality is checked as follows. More specifically, the test signal is retransmitted from wireless communication device21to at least luminaires1through k. Having received this test signal, luminaires1through k then remeasure the signal strength of the test signal and transmit signal strength information on the signal strength to wireless communication device21. Wireless communication device21aggregates this signal strength information and transmits the aggregate information to terminal device30.

Comparing unit30fof terminal device30then compares the signal strength included in the signal strength information stored before the stopping of the pairing process with the signal strength remeasured after resuming the pairing process, and outputs the result. With this, differences in the radio wave environment of lighting system100before and after stopping the pairing process can be known. Accordingly, trends in the changes in radio wave environment of lighting system100can be known, making it possible to improve the reliability of lighting system100when lighting system100is handed over to the user.

FIG. 10Ais a block diagram illustrating the configuration of lighting system100B according to Embodiment 9.FIG. 10Bis a flow chart illustrating the quality determination for lighting system100B.

Lighting system100B includes a plurality of luminaires1through n, wireless communication device21, terminal device30, and server50. Luminaires1through n are each capable of communicating with wireless communication device21over radio r1. Terminal device30is capable of communicating with wireless communication device21over radio r2. Terminal device30is capable of communicating with server50over a wired connection.

Server50is an external centralized management device, and includes: communication unit50a; storage unit50e, and control unit50cconnected to communication unit50aand storage unit50e. Control unit50cincludes determining unit50d.

Control unit50cincludes a CPU, and storage unit50eincludes, for example, RAM and ROM. Signal strength information is transmitted to control unit50cfrom terminal device30via communication unit50a, and storage unit50estores the transmitted signal strength information. In Embodiment 9, for example, daily signal strength information is accumulated in storage unit50eto generate a database of signal strength information. Moreover, past quality determination results are stored as evidence, and these past quality determination results can be referenced as necessary.

Moreover, in Embodiment 9, determining unit50ddetermines whether the condition of the radio wave environment in lighting system100B is acceptable or not based on the plurality of items of signal strength information transmitted from terminal device30. For example, determining unit50ddetermines the condition of lighting system100B to be acceptable upon confirming transmission of the signal strength information by all luminaires1through n, and determines the condition of lighting system100B to be unacceptable upon failing to confirm transmission of the signal strength information by at least one of luminaires1through n.

In this way, with lighting system100B according to this embodiment, it is possible to check the radio wave environment of lighting system100B from outside the system, by using server50. Moreover, for example, by comparing past quality determination results with current quality determination results, it is possible to grasp trends in changes in the radio wave environment, and therefore possible to improve reliability with relation to the radio wave environment of lighting system100B.

Lighting system100according to this embodiment includes: wireless communication device21that transmits a test signal which is an instruction to measure signal strength; a plurality of luminaires1through n, each of which, upon receiving the test signal, measures a signal strength of the test signal and transmits signal strength information on the signal strength to wireless communication device21; and a determining unit configured to determine a condition of lighting system100based on one of the signal strength and the signal strength information. The determining unit is configured to: (i) determine the condition of lighting system100to be acceptable upon confirming transmission of the signal strength information by all of the plurality of luminaires1through n, and determine the condition of lighting system100to be unacceptable upon failing to confirm transmission of the signal strength information by at least one of the plurality of luminaires1through n; or (ii) determine the condition of lighting system100to be acceptable when each of the signal strengths measured by all of the plurality of luminaires1through n exceeds a reference value, and determine the condition of lighting system100to be unacceptable when the signal strength measured by at least one of the plurality of luminaires1through n is less than or equal to the reference value. In this way, it is possible to check the radio wave environment of lighting system100based on transmission or non-transmission of the signal strength information or the magnitude of the signal strength, and thus improve the reliability of lighting system100.

Lighting system100may further include terminal device30that includes determining unit30d. Wireless communication device21may transmit, to terminal device30, the signal strength information transmitted from the plurality of luminaires1through n, and determining unit30dincluded in terminal device30may be configured to determine whether the condition of lighting system100is acceptable or not based on the signal strength information transmitted from wireless communication device21. Inclusion of such a terminal device30makes it possible for a user to easily check the radio wave environment of lighting system100.

Moreover, wireless communication device may include a plurality of wireless communication devices21,22, and23. Lighting system100may further include: lighting controller40that communicates with the plurality of wireless communication devices21,22, and23; and terminal device30that includes determining unit30d. The plurality of wireless communication devices21,22, and23may transmit, to lighting controller40, the signal strength information transmitted from the plurality of luminaires1through n. Lighting controller40may transmit, to terminal device30, the signal strength information transmitted from the plurality of wireless communication devices21through23. Determining unit30dincluded in terminal device30may be configured to determine whether the condition of lighting system100is acceptable or not based on the signal strength information transmitted from lighting controller40. With this, even when lighting system100A includes a plurality of wireless communication devices21,22, and23, it is possible to improve reliability in relation to the radio wave environment of lighting system100A.

Moreover, wireless communication device21may transmit the test signal to the plurality of luminaires1through n upon receiving a measurement start signal originating from terminal device30. With this, a user of lighting system100can easily start the quality determination for lighting system100by using terminal device30.

Moreover, when determining unit30ddetermines the condition of lighting system100to be unacceptable when the signal strength measured by the at least one of the plurality of luminaires1through n (luminaire2) is less than or equal to the reference value, terminal device30may display a screen for receiving an input of whether to retransmit the test signal to the at least one of the plurality of luminaires1through n that measured the signal strength of less than or equal to the reference value (i.e., luminaire2). With this, a user of lighting system100can easily retry the measurement of the signal strength by using terminal device30.

Moreover, when determining unit30ddetermines the condition of lighting system100to be unacceptable when the signal strength measured by the at least one of the plurality of luminaires1through n (for example, luminaire2) is less than or equal to the reference value, terminal device30may transmit the measurement start signal to wireless communication device21to prompt retransmission of the test signal to the at least one of the plurality of luminaires1through n that measured the signal strength of less than or equal to the reference value (i.e., luminaire2). In this way, when retrying the measurement of the signal strength, by transmitting the test signal to the at least one luminaire2that measured the signal strength of less than or equal to the reference value, it is possible to obtain the signal strength more efficiently than when the test signal is retransmitted to all luminaires1through n.

Moreover, terminal device30may determine whether the condition of lighting system100is acceptable or not a plurality of times and, when the total number of the plurality of times exceeds a specified number of times, may display support information for resolving the unacceptable condition. By limiting the retry count as in this way, it is possible to limit the number of times the user has to perform the same actions, which makes it possible to reduce the amount of time wasted by the user.

Moreover, terminal device30may display the signal strengths measured by the plurality of luminaires1through n. With this, a user of lighting system100can easily know the reception quality of lighting system100.

Lighting system100B may further include terminal device30and server50including determining unit50d. Terminal device30may transmit, to server50, the signal strength information transmitted from wireless communication device21, and determining unit50dincluded in server50may be configured to determine whether the condition of lighting system100is acceptable or not based on the signal strength information transmitted from terminal device30. In this way, it is possible to check the radio wave environment of lighting system100B from outside the system, by using server50.

Moreover, each of the plurality of luminaires1through n may: determine reception quality to be acceptable when the signal strength exceeds the reference value; determine the reception quality to be unacceptable when the signal strength is less than or equal to the reference value; and indicate a result of the determination via its own lighting state. With this, a user of lighting system100can visually grasp the quality of the radio wave environment of lighting system100.

Moreover, when, during a process of pairing each of the plurality of luminaires1through n with wireless communication device21, one or more of the plurality of luminaires1through n (in this example, luminaires1through k) may be paired with wireless communication device21and the pairing of luminaires k+1 through n not included in the one or more of the plurality of luminaires1through k may be stopped, wireless communication device21may transmit the test signal to the one or more of the plurality of luminaires1through k, and upon receiving the test signal, the one or more of the plurality of luminaires1through k may each measure the signal strength of the test signal and transmit the signal strength information to wireless communication device21. Terminal device30may includes storage unit30econfigured to store the signal strength information upon receiving the signal strength information. With this, differences in the radio wave environment of lighting system100before and after stopping the pairing process can be known.

Moreover, after the signal strength information is stored, when each of the plurality of luminaires1through n is paired with wireless communication device21, wireless communication device21may retransmit the test signal to at least the one or more of the plurality of luminaires1through k, and upon receiving the test signal, the one or more of the plurality of luminaires1through k may each remeasure the signal strength of the test signal. Terminal device30may include comparing unit30fconfigured to compare the signal strength included in the signal strength information stored in storage unit30ewith the remeasured signal strength, and outputs a comparison result. With this, differences in the radio wave environment of lighting system100before and after stopping the pairing process can be known. By knowing the differences in the radio wave environment, it is possible to improve the reliability of lighting system100when lighting system100is handed over to the user.

Moreover, after determining unit30ddetermines the condition of lighting system100to be unacceptable when the signal strength measured by the at least one of the plurality of luminaires1through n (for example, luminaire2) is less than or equal to the reference value, wireless communication device21may be configured to communicate with the at least one of the plurality of luminaires1through n that measured the signal strength of less than or equal to the reference value (i.e., luminaire2) by using a transmission power greater than the transmission power used to transmit the test signal. This makes it possible to improve communication quality between wireless communication device21and luminaire2when wireless communication device21has a low signal strength.

Moreover, after determining unit30ddetermines the condition of lighting system100to be unacceptable when the signal strength measured by the at least one of the plurality of luminaires1through n (for example, luminaire2) is less than or equal to the reference value, wireless communication device21may be configured to communicate with the at least one of the plurality of luminaires1through n that measured the signal strength of less than or equal to the reference value (i.e., luminaire2) by using a number of instances of communication greater than the number of instances of communication used to transmit the test signal. This makes it possible to improve communication quality between wireless communication device21and luminaire2when wireless communication device21has a low signal strength.

Moreover, after determining unit30ddetermines the condition of lighting system100to be unacceptable when the signal strength measured by the at least one of the plurality of luminaires1through n (for example, luminaire2) is less than or equal to the reference value, wireless communication device21may be configured to communicate with the at least one of the plurality of luminaires1through n that measured the signal strength of less than or equal to the reference value (i.e., luminaire2) by using a transmission repetition rate lower than the transmission repetition rate used to transmit the test signal. This makes it possible to improve communication quality between wireless communication device21and luminaire2when wireless communication device21has a low signal strength.

A quality determination method for lighting system100including a plurality of luminaires1through n and wireless communication device21that communicates with the plurality of luminaires1through n, includes: transmitting a test signal from wireless communication device21to the plurality of luminaires1through n, the test signal being an instruction to measure signal strength; measuring, by each of the plurality of luminaires1through n, a signal strength of the test signal upon receiving the test signal, and transmitting, by each of the plurality of luminaires1through n, signal strength information on the signal strength to wireless communication device21; and (i) determining the condition of lighting system100to be acceptable upon confirming transmission of the signal strength information by all of the plurality of luminaires1through n, and determining the condition of lighting system100to be unacceptable upon failing to confirm transmission of the signal strength information by at least one of the plurality of luminaires1through n, or (ii) determining the condition of lighting system100to be acceptable when each of the signal strengths measured by all of the plurality of luminaires1through n exceeds a reference value, and determining the condition of lighting system100to be unacceptable when the signal strength measured by at least one of the plurality of luminaires1through n is less than or equal to the reference value. With such a quality determination method, it is possible to check the radio wave environment of lighting system100based on transmission or non-transmission of the signal strength information or the magnitude of the signal strength, and thus improve the reliability of lighting system100.

Moreover, lighting system100according to this embodiment may include: a plurality of wireless communication devices21through23that transmit a test signal which is an instruction to measure signal strength; a plurality of luminaires1through n, each of which, upon receiving the test signal, measures a signal strength of the test signal and transmits signal strength information on the signal strength to the plurality of wireless communication devices21through23; lighting controller40that communicates with the plurality of wireless communication devices21through23; and terminal device30that determines a condition of lighting system100based on one of the signal strength and the signal strength information. The plurality of wireless communication devices21through23may transmit, to lighting controller40, the signal strength information transmitted from the plurality of luminaires1through n, lighting controller40may transmit, to terminal device30, the signal strength information transmitted from the plurality of wireless communication devices21through23, and based on the signal strength information transmitted from lighting controller40, terminal device30may: (i) determine the condition of lighting system100to be acceptable upon confirming transmission of the signal strength information by all of the plurality of luminaires1through n, and determine the condition of lighting system100to be unacceptable upon failing to confirm transmission of the signal strength information by at least one of the plurality of luminaires1through n; or (ii) determine the condition of lighting system100to be acceptable when each of the signal strengths measured by all of the plurality of luminaires1through n exceeds a reference value, and determine the condition of lighting system100to be unacceptable when the signal strength measured by at least one of the plurality of luminaires1through n is less than or equal to the reference value.

OTHER EMBODIMENTS

Hereinbefore, lighting system100,100A,100B, etc., have been exemplified based on the above embodiments, but the present disclosure is not limited to the above embodiments. Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible in the above exemplary embodiment and variations without materially departing from the novel teachings and technical advantages of the present disclosure. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure.

In Embodiment 1, terminal device30is exemplified as determining the quality of the radio wave environment of lighting system100, but this example is not limiting. For example, each luminaire1through n may include a determining unit that determines the reception quality to be acceptable when the signal strength measured by measuring unit10dis greater than a reference value and determines the reception quality to be unacceptable when the signal strength is less than or equal to the reference value, and may display the result of the determination via its own lighting state. With this, a user can visually grasp the quality of the radio wave environment.

Moreover, wireless communication device21may include a determining unit, may determine the reception quality based on the signal strength information transmitted from luminaires1through n, and may turn on a pilot lamp included in the wireless communication device depending on the determination result.

Moreover, in Embodiment 3, the determining of the quality of the radio wave environment of lighting system100is not limited to terminal device30; the determining may be performed by lighting controller40. In such cases, the determining unit in lighting controller40may determine the reception quality based on signal strength information transmitted from wireless communication device21.

Moreover, in the above embodiments, the radio wave environment is checked, but this example is not limiting; the following may be performed to improve the radio wave environment.

For example, after performing the quality determination for lighting system100, wireless communication device21may be configured to communicate with a luminaire that measured a signal strength of less than or equal to a reference value by using a greater transmission power than used to transmit the test signal. For example, after performing the quality determination for lighting system100, wireless communication device21may be configured to communicate with a luminaire that measured a signal strength of less than or equal to a reference value by using a greater number of instances of communication than used to transmit the test signal. For example, after performing the quality determination for lighting system100, wireless communication device21may be configured to communicate with a luminaire that measured a signal strength of less than or equal to a reference value by using a lower transmission repetition rate lower than used to transmit the test signal. These configurations make it possible to improve communication quality between wireless communication device21and a luminaire.