JP7683062B2 - dimmer - Google Patents

Description

Patent Law Article 30, Paragraph 2 applicable Publisher: Daiko Electric Co., Ltd. Publication name: Wireless Control System Catalog Publication date: May 2022

This embodiment relates to a dimmer.

Control methods for LED (Light Emitting Diode) lighting fixtures include, for example, a signal line type and a digital control type. The signal line type is sometimes called a PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) control method. With the signal line type, a PWM signal is sent from the lighting control device to the lighting fixture as a control signal. With the digital control method, a digital signal is sent from the lighting control device to the lighting fixture as a control signal. An example of a digital control method is the DALI (registered trademark) (Digital Addressable Lighting Interface) control method.

Patent No. 6901289 JP 2014-056670 A

This embodiment provides a dimmer that allows for efficient installation of a lighting system.

According to this embodiment, the dimmer includes a microcomputer, a first abnormality detection unit, and a second abnormality detection unit. The microcomputer includes a first PWM dimming signal circuit that transmits a first PWM signal, the time change of which has a pulse waveform of voltage, via a first PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) output system to a dimmer connected to the lighting device, and a second PWM dimming signal circuit that transmits a second PWM signal, the time change of which has a pulse waveform of voltage, via a second PWM output system to the dimmer. The first abnormality detection unit is connected in series with the first PWM dimming signal circuit and outputs a first voltage measurement value to the microcomputer. The second abnormality detection unit is connected in series with the second PWM dimming signal circuit and outputs a second voltage measurement value to the microcomputer. The microcomputer detects an abnormality when the time during which the difference between the first voltage measurement value and the theoretical value of the first PWM signal is outside a predetermined range is longer than a predetermined period of time, detects an abnormality when the time during which the difference between the second voltage measurement value and the theoretical value of the second PWM signal is outside a predetermined range is longer than a predetermined period of time, and stops operation when an abnormality is detected.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a lighting system according to a first embodiment. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed by the wireless module according to the first embodiment. 5 is a diagram showing an example of terminals of a wired transmission path when a calculation unit determines that a PWM communication control mode is selected in the first embodiment; FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a terminal of a wired transmission path when a calculation unit determines that a digital communication control mode is selected in the first embodiment; FIG. FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a lighting system according to a second embodiment. FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a wireless dimmer (power box) according to a third embodiment. 6 is a graph showing an example of the relationship between the voltage and the average voltage of a PWM signal. FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a wireless module according to a fourth embodiment.

Each embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the same reference numerals will be used for substantially the same functions and components, and duplicate descriptions will be given only when necessary.

[First embodiment]
The first embodiment relates to a lighting system that wirelessly communicates with a controller, which may be a device such as a personal computer, a tablet computer, a mobile phone, a mobile computer, a remote controller, or a control terminal.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a lighting system 1 according to a first embodiment. Note that the various components illustrated in FIG. 1 may be freely combined or freely separated as long as they can achieve the same or similar functions and actions.

The lighting system 1 includes a wireless module 2, a power supply unit 3, and a lighting device (e.g., a lighting unit) 4. The wireless module 2 and the power supply unit 3 are connected to each other so as to be able to communicate with each other and to supply power via a wired transmission path 5, such as a wire harness or cable harness, that transmits signals and power.

The wireless module 2 receives a wireless signal from the controller 6 using wireless communication. The wireless module 2 is electrically connected to the power supply unit 3 via a wired transmission path 5. The wireless module 2 receives power from the power supply unit 3 via the wired transmission path 5. The wireless module 2 transmits a signal to the power supply unit 3 via the wired transmission path 5, and receives a signal from the power supply unit 3 via the wired transmission path 5.

The wireless module 2 is used by being electrically connected to a power supply unit 3 for wireless control. The wireless module 2 includes, for example, an operation unit 7, a display unit 8, a connection unit 9, and a communication module 10.

The operation unit 7 includes, for example, a button or a switch. The operation unit 7 accepts an operation by an operator (user) and transmits an operation signal indicating the operation content of the operator to the communication module 10. The operation unit 7 may include, for example, an area setting switch, a check switch, and a forced release (reset) switch. The area setting switch, the check switch, and the forced reset switch may be combined as appropriate. More specifically, the operation unit 7 may include, for example, a dip switch or a push button switch.

The area setting switch can set the identification information (e.g., a number) of the area to which the wireless module 2, power supply unit 3, and lighting device 4 belong, and can also function as a switch to start the check mode.

For example, when the wireless module 2 is activated in a check mode, it turns on, off, or blinks the lighting device 4 according to a check pattern, such as a lighting operation patterned on a time axis or constant lighting.

During the check mode, the forced reset switch may be used as a switch for switching between check mode patterns. Specifically, during the check mode, the forced reset switch accepts the designation of one of a plurality of check modes. During the check mode, the wireless module 2 operates in the check mode designated by the forced reset switch.

In the first embodiment, the wireless module 2 can activate the check mode before performing pairing for wireless communication.

The display unit 8 includes, for example, an LED (Light Emitting Diode) or a liquid crystal device. The display unit 8 receives a display signal indicating, for example, the state of the wireless module 2 or the lighting system 1 from the communication module 10, and performs a display corresponding to the display signal. As a specific example, the display unit 8 may be independent monitor LEDs of a first color and a second color. The display unit 8 indicates the power supply state and the communication state by turning on, turning off, blinking, or the like.

The connection part 9 can be connected to one end of the wired transmission path 5. One of the multiple terminals of the wired transmission path 5 connected to the connection part 9 functions as a mode select terminal when the power supply unit 3 operates in the analog communication control mode.

The communication module 10 includes a communication antenna 11, a memory unit 12, and a calculation unit 13. The communication module 10 receives power from the power supply unit 3 via the wired transmission path 5 and the connection unit 9. The communication module 10 communicates wirelessly with the external controller 6. The communication module 10 communicates wired with the power supply unit 3 via the connection unit 9 and the wired transmission path 5.

The communication antenna 11 receives radio waves and transmits electrical signals to the calculation unit 13.

The storage unit 12 stores, for example, data generated by the calculation unit 13, data used by the calculation unit 13, or software such as a program used by the calculation unit 13. The software stored in the storage unit 12 may include, for example, various setting values, data received from the external controller 6, or data received from the power supply unit 3. The storage unit 12 may store, for example, scene information, affiliation information indicating the floor/area/group to which the wireless module 2 belongs, and the like. In the first embodiment, a scene refers to a lighting state, for example, a lighting effect formed by a lighting device.

The calculation unit 13 may be, for example, a microcomputer or a processor. The calculation unit 13 executes various processes, such as communication processes, judgment processes, or check mode processes, based on the software stored in the storage unit 12.

The calculation unit 13 performs wireless communication with the external controller 6 via the communication antenna 11 in accordance with various processes. The calculation unit 13 performs wired communication with the power supply unit 3 via the connection unit 9 and the wired transmission path 5 in accordance with various processes. An example of the process executed by the calculation unit 13 will be described later with reference to the flowchart in FIG. 2.

The calculation unit 13 includes a function for automatically determining different types of communication control modes (e.g., communication control format, communication specifications, communication method). The calculation unit 13 determines the communication control mode based on, for example, at least one of the electrical connection state of a specific terminal (pin) in the connection unit 9 (the electrical connection state between the wireless module 2 and the power supply unit 3) or the communication state.

The calculation unit 13 has a plurality of different types of communication control modes for communication with the power supply unit 3. Because the calculation unit 13 is compatible with a plurality of different types of communication control modes, the wireless module 2 can be applied to different types of power supply units 3 with just one unit. As a specific example, the calculation unit 13 can be compatible with any of an analog communication control mode, a single-channel digital communication control mode (serial communication), a two-channel digital communication control mode (serial communication), or a multi-channel digital communication control mode (serial communication).

The calculation unit 13 executes the check mode according to the state of the operation unit 7, such as a dip switch. Therefore, the calculation unit 13 can execute a test of the connection and operation between the wireless module 2, the power supply unit 3, and the lighting device 4 even when there is no external controller 6 or when communication with the controller 6 is not possible. Specifically, when the check mode (or test mode) is executed, the calculation unit 13 performs control for turning on, off, blinking, dimming, color adjustment, etc. based on the check pattern stored in the storage unit 12. By checking the lighting device 4 that emits light according to the check mode, the worker can check the connection and operation between the wireless module 2, the power supply unit 3, and the lighting device 4. This allows the wiring from the wireless module 2 to the lighting device 4 to be checked without pairing between the controller 6 and the wireless module 2. By the calculation unit 13 executing the check mode, the worker's workability at the site can be improved, and the worker can perform inspection before setting up the lighting system 1.

The calculation unit 13 can set the area to which the lighting device 4 belongs depending on the state of the operation unit 7, such as a dip switch. Therefore, even before the construction work or setup of the lighting system 1 is completed, or even if the lighting system 1 cannot be energized, the area can be set in advance in the wireless module 2 by the operator's operation. This makes it possible to shorten the time required for setting up the equipment and setting up the area, which are required after the construction work or setup of the lighting system 1 or the start of energization, and reduces the burden on the operator.

The calculation unit 13 forcibly cancels the pairing (provisioning) performed by the controller 6 in response to an operation on the operation unit 7, such as pressing a push button switch. Generally, only the controller 6 that performed the settings could cancel the pairing, but in the first embodiment, the operator manually operates the forced cancellation switch and the calculation unit 13 cancels the pairing. As a result, if the controller 6 breaks down or is lost, or if the controller 6 and the wireless module 2 are not able to communicate with each other, the pairing between the wireless module 2 and the controller 6 can be canceled and a re-setup can be performed from the controller 6 or a new controller.

The calculation unit 13 may, for example, generate a lighting control signal based on the scene information stored in the memory unit 12, and transmit the lighting control signal to the power supply unit 3 via the connection unit 9 and the wired transmission path 5.

The power supply unit 3 receives power from an external power source and performs power conversion. The power supply unit 3 supplies the converted power to the lighting device 4. The power supply unit 3 is connected to the wireless module 2 via a wired transmission path 5. The power supply unit 3 transmits a signal to the wireless module 2 via the wired transmission path 5, and receives a signal from the wireless module 2 via the wired transmission path 5. The power supply unit 3 supplies the converted power to the wireless module 2 via the wired transmission path 5. The power supply unit 3 includes a connection unit 14, a memory unit 15, an operation unit 16, a processing unit 17, a power conversion unit 18, and a dimming unit (e.g., a dimming circuit) 19. Note that the memory unit 15 or the operation unit 16 may be omitted from the power supply unit 3.

The connection portion 14 can be connected to the other end of the wired transmission path 5. The connection portion 14 includes multiple terminals.

The storage unit 15 stores, for example, data generated by the processing unit 17, data used by the processing unit 17, or software such as a program used by the processing unit 17. The software stored in the storage unit 15 may include, for example, various setting values, data received from the wireless module 2, and the like. More specifically, the storage unit 15 stores, for example, a power source type code and a communication format.

The operation unit 16 includes, for example, a button (e.g., a push button switch) or a switch (e.g., a dip switch). The operation unit 16 accepts an operation by the operator and transmits an operation signal indicating the operation content of the operator to the processing unit 17. The operation unit 16 may include, for example, a check switch.

The processing unit 17 may be, for example, a microcomputer or a processor. The processing unit 17 executes a check mode based on software stored in the storage unit 15 in accordance with a specification made by the operation unit 16. The check mode may execute an abnormality detection process, etc.

The processing unit 17 controls the power conversion unit 18 and the dimming unit 19 according to various processes, and communicates with the wireless module 2 via the connection unit 14 and the wired transmission path 5.

The power conversion unit 18 operates under the control of the processing unit 17 and converts the power supplied from the power source. For example, the power conversion unit 18 converts the voltage, current, and frequency of the current supplied from the power source into a predetermined voltage, current, and frequency. The power conversion unit 18 supplies the converted power to the memory unit 15, the operation unit 16, the processing unit 17, and the dimming unit 19. The power conversion unit 18 supplies the converted power to the lighting device 4 via the dimming unit 19, and to the wireless module 2 via the connection unit 14 and the wired transmission path 5.

The dimming unit 19 receives the converted power from the power conversion unit 18 and supplies the power to the lighting device 4. Specifically, the dimming unit 19 converts the supplied DC power into a constant voltage or constant current, or PWM controls the power, and supplies it to the lighting device 4.

In the first embodiment, an example is described in which a PWM signal, which is an analog signal, is supplied from the dimming unit 19 to the lighting device 4, but the analog signal may be a signal of another type.

The lighting device 4 may be, for example, an LED. The lighting device 4 turns on or off according to a PWM signal received from the dimmer 19 of the power supply unit 3.

In the first embodiment, the wireless module 2 automatically determines whether the communication performed between the wireless module 2 and the power supply unit 3 conforms to the analog communication control mode or the digital communication control mode, and further, if it is determined that the communication conforms to the digital communication control mode, automatically determines which of multiple types of digital communication control modes the communication conforms to.

In the following description, the analog communication control mode is the PWM communication mode as an example, but the analog communication mode may be another analog communication mode. Also, the digital communication control mode is the serial communication mode as an example, but the digital communication control mode may be another communication mode, such as a parallel communication mode.

Here, the relationship between the controller 6 and the wireless module 2 will be described. In the first embodiment, the lighting system 1 includes multiple wireless modules 2, and the controller 6 may perform wireless communication with the multiple wireless modules 2. The wireless modules 2 may perform different communications during pairing for wireless communication and after pairing. More specifically, during pairing, the multiple wireless modules 2 and the controller 6 are directly connected wirelessly, and after pairing, a collection of the paired multiple wireless modules 2 may be connected to each other so that they can communicate with each other, and wireless communication may be performed using multiple communication transmission paths.

In typical one-to-one or one-to-many communication, the radio wave reach is the distance of the direct arrival wave. In such typical one-to-one or one-to-many communication, the transmitting device and the receiving device are susceptible to the physical distance or radio wave attenuation. In contrast, as described above, in the lighting system 1 of the first embodiment in which multiple wireless modules 2 can communicate with each other, a radio wave transmission path can be formed by the multiple paired wireless modules 2. In other words, in the first embodiment, each of the multiple unlinked modules 2 can function not only to communicate with the controller 6, but also as a repeater for other wireless modules.

Figure 2 is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed by the wireless module 2 according to the first embodiment.

When power supply from the power supply unit 3 begins, the wireless module 2 transitions to the power supply unit 3 determination process and determines the type of connected power source. After starting up, the wireless module 2 determines the communication mode and then determines the state of the area setting switch. If the state of the area setting switch indicates the check mode, the wireless module 2 transmits a check pattern corresponding to the check mode to the power supply unit 3.

In step S201, the calculation unit 13 determines whether or not a specific terminal of the wired transmission path 5 connected to the connection unit 9 functions as a mode select terminal in PWM mode based on the state (e.g., a change in voltage) of the specific terminal. If the specific terminal functions as a mode select terminal, the calculation unit 13 determines that PWM is on, and if the specific terminal does not function as a mode select terminal, the calculation unit 13 determines that PWM is off. More specifically, the calculation unit 13 determines whether or not PWM is on based on, for example, whether the voltage of the specific terminal is 0 V or the supply voltage. This determination of the wireless module 2 can be easily achieved even if the power supply unit 3 does not have a microcomputer. Therefore, the wireless module 2 can be connected to a power supply unit that does not have a microcomputer.

If PWM is on (the state of a particular terminal of the wired transmission path 5 connected to the connection unit 9 corresponds to the state of the mode select terminal), in step S202, the calculation unit 13 starts up in the PWM communication control mode. After starting up in the PWM communication control mode, in step S203, the calculation unit 13 determines the state of the area setting switch included in the operation unit 7. The area setting switch can select an area. The area setting switch can also select a check mode (test mode). The area setting switch may be a dip switch that can specify multiple on/off states.

If the area setting switch is in a state that selects the check mode (for example, if multiple dip switches are all on), in step S204, the calculation unit 13 executes the check mode, and then the process returns to step S203.

If the area setting switch is in a state to select an area (for example, if one of the multiple dip switches is on and the other dip switches are off), in step S205, the calculation unit 13 cooperates with the power supply unit 3 to perform operation in the PWM communication control mode for the area indicated by the area setting switch.

If PWM is off in S201 above, in step S206, the calculation unit 13 determines the type of digital communication control mode (data communication format) to be applied to communication between the wireless module 2 and the power supply unit 3. For example, the calculation unit 13 transmits a signal based on the first digital communication control mode to the power supply unit 3. If the calculation unit 13 receives a normal response from the power supply unit 3, it selects the first digital communication control mode. If the calculation unit 13 does not receive a normal response from the power supply unit 3, it may select the second digital communication control mode. Alternatively, if the calculation unit 13 does not receive a normal response from the power supply unit 3, it may transmit a signal based on the second digital communication control mode to the power supply unit 3, and if the calculation unit 13 receives a normal response from the power supply unit 3, it may select the second digital communication control mode.

If the first digital communication control mode is selected in step S206 above, the calculation unit 13 starts up in the first digital communication control mode in step S207. After starting up in the first digital communication control mode, in step S208, the calculation unit 13 determines the state of the area setting switch included in the operation unit 7.

If the area setting switch is in a state that selects the check mode in step S208, the calculation unit 13 executes the check mode in step S209, and then the process returns to step S208.

If the area setting switch is in a state for selecting an area in step S208, in step S210, the calculation unit 13 executes operation in the first digital communication control mode for the area indicated by the area setting switch.

If the second digital communication control mode is selected in step S206 above, the calculation unit 13 starts up in the second digital communication control mode in step S211. After starting up in the second digital communication control mode, the calculation unit 13 determines the state of the area setting switch included in the operation unit 7 in step S212.

If the area setting switch is in a state that selects the check mode in step S212, the calculation unit 13 executes the check mode in step S213, and then the process returns to step S212.

If the area setting switch is in a state for selecting an area in step S212, in step S214, the calculation unit 13 executes operation in the second digital communication control mode for the area indicated by the area setting switch.

In FIG. 2 above, the determination in step S201 is, for example, to determine the state (voltage or potential) of the mode select terminal of the wired transmission path 5 connected to the connection part 9 of the wireless module 2.

The determination in step S206 involves communicating in a specific communication control mode, and determining the communication control mode based on the response reception status.

The determinations in steps S203, S208, and S212 are made by electrically determining the state of the area setting switch.

The determination of the communication control mode in the first embodiment may be expanded or added after step S206.

The calculation unit 13 stores the above-mentioned various judgment results or type information of the communication control mode in the memory unit 12, and transmits the judgment results or type information to the controller 6 in response to a request from the controller 6.

When the calculation unit 13 transitions to the digital communication control mode, in accordance with the request received from the controller 6, it receives the power source specific identification information from the power source unit 3 via the wired transmission path 5 and the connection unit 9, stores the power source specific identification information in the memory unit 12, and transmits the power source specific identification information to the controller 6. If the memory unit 12 has already saved the power source specific identification information, the calculation unit 13 may read out the power source specific identification information stored in the memory unit 12 and transmit the read power source specific identification information to the controller 6.

When the calculation unit 13 receives a designation signal for the area setting mode from the controller 6, it may forcibly switch the determination results of steps S203, S208, and S212 according to the area designated by the designation signal, and store this forcibly switched state in the storage unit 12. This allows the area setting to be switched remotely.

Figure 3 is a diagram showing an example of the terminals of the wired transmission path 5 when the calculation unit 13 determines that the PWM communication control mode is selected in the first embodiment.

The calculation unit 13 and the processing unit 17 determine the role of the terminals of the wired transmission path 5 as shown in FIG. 3.

Figure 4 shows an example of a terminal of a wired transmission path when the calculation unit 13 determines that the digital communication control mode is selected in the first embodiment.

The calculation unit 13 and the processing unit 17 determine the role of the terminals of the wired transmission path 5 as shown in FIG.

In the first embodiment described above, a lighting system 1 can be constructed using a single wireless module 2 that can be applied to multiple types of communication control modes. In the first embodiment, various types of power supply units 3 can be connected to the wireless module 2.

In the first embodiment, the wireless module 2 automatically determines the communication control mode of the power supply unit 3 based on changes in the terminal voltage and the impossibility of communication, and switches the communication control mode. This makes it possible to reduce the labor required to build the lighting system 1 and shorten the time required.

In the first embodiment, even before the lighting system 1 is operational, when the controller 6 is not present, when the controller 6 and the wireless module 2 cannot communicate, or before the lighting system 1 is set up, the area of the lighting device 4 can be set by operating the operation unit 7 of the wireless module 2.

In the first embodiment, by executing the check mode in the wireless module 2, the worker can check the on/off, blinking, dimming, and color adjustment states of the lighting device 4 before the lighting system 1 is operational, when there is no controller 6, when the controller 6 and the wireless module 2 cannot communicate, or even before the lighting system 1 is set up. This allows the worker to proceed with the check work while building the lighting system 1, making the work more efficient and improving the reliability of the lighting system 1. Also, in the first embodiment, the wiring of the lighting device 4 can be checked without pairing. It also improves the worker's workability on site and allows the wiring to be checked before setup.

In the first embodiment, the wireless module 2 is provided with an operation unit 7 such as a dip switch or a push button switch, and the area setting and the forced cancellation of pairing can be performed by operating the operation unit 7. In addition, the area setting and the establishment or cancellation of pairing can also be performed using the controller 6. For example, when the pairing and area setting for a large number of lighting devices 4 are controlled by the controller 6, it was necessary to display a large number of devices on the screen of the controller 6 and sort them. However, in the first embodiment, since instructions regarding pairing and area setting can be performed on the individual wireless modules 2 side, it is not necessary to display a large number of devices on the controller 6 and give instructions for area setting and pairing. Therefore, the operator can easily and efficiently allocate devices during pairing.

Generally, when pairing is performed by the controller 6, multiple wireless modules 2 that are powered on are searched for all at once. The worker must use the controller 6 to classify the multiple wireless modules 2 that have been searched for all at once and divide them into areas. However, in the lighting system 1 according to the first embodiment, the area setting switch of the wireless modules 2 is set in advance before pairing, thereby reducing the workload of the worker.

In the first embodiment, the power supply unit 3 may be a wireless lighting fixture. In this case, the lighting fixture may be equipped with various detection circuits. Examples of the various detection circuits include circuits for detecting secondary overcurrent, abnormal temperature, and circuit failure. When the detection circuit detects an abnormality, the processing unit 17 processes the abnormality code. The processing unit 17 transmits the abnormality code to the wireless module 2 via the connection unit 14 and the wired transmission path 5.

Second Embodiment
The second embodiment is a modification of the first embodiment described above, and describes a lighting system including a power box (wireless dimmer) instead of the wireless module 2 and power supply unit 3 according to the first embodiment.

In the second embodiment, a power box is combined with a lighting device and a dimmer that do not have wireless functionality, so that the lighting device and the dimmer are incorporated into a lighting system that has wireless functionality.

Figure 5 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a lighting system 20 according to the second embodiment. In this Figure 5, the dimmer 21 and the lighting device 4 may be collectively configured as a dimming lighting fixture. The dimming method of the dimming lighting fixture includes phase control type, PWM control type, PWM dimming and color adjustment type, DALI control type, etc. The dimmer 21 may be, for example, a dimming type separate power source. A power box 22 compatible with the dimming method of the dimming lighting fixture is connected to the dimming lighting fixture. The wiring between the dimming lighting fixture and the power box 22 is different depending on the dimming method. For this reason, the worker needs to connect the dimming lighting fixture and the power box 22 with wiring compatible with the dimming method. In the second embodiment, even if there is an error in the wiring between the dimming lighting fixture and the power box 22 during electrical work, the power box 22 is prevented from being destroyed.

The dimmer 21 receives power from the power box 22. The dimmer 21 also receives a dimming signal from the power box 22 and controls the lighting device 4 according to the received dimming signal. The dimming signal may be, for example, a PWM signal. In the second embodiment, the dimmer 21 does not have a wireless communication function.

The dimmer 21 and the power box 22 are connected by a PWM signal line 23.

The power box 22 corresponds to a wireless dimmer. The power box 22 is connected to the lighting device 4 via a PWM signal line 23 and a dimmer 21 that does not have a wireless function. The power box 22 is a device for linking the dimmer 21 and the lighting device 4 with a controller 6 that performs wireless communication. The power box 22 performs dimming, for example, a phase dimming method, a PWM dimming method (monochrome or dimming/color adjustment), or an on/off method, but in the second embodiment, the PWM dimming method will be described as an example.

The power box 22 includes a wireless module 2 and a dimming unit 24.

The dimming unit 24 receives power from an external power source and performs power conversion. The dimming unit 24 supplies the converted power to the dimming device 21. The dimming unit 24 receives a signal from the controller 6 via the wireless module 2 and the wired transmission path 5, generates a dimming signal according to the received signal, and transmits the dimming signal to the dimming device 21. The dimming unit 24 transmits a signal via the wired transmission path 5 and the wireless module 2. The dimming unit 24 supplies the converted power to the wireless module 2 via the wired transmission path 5. The dimming unit 24 includes a connection unit 14, an operation unit 16, a display unit 25, a memory unit 15, a processing unit 26, a power conversion unit 18, a dimming unit (e.g., a dimming circuit) 27, and an abnormality detection unit (e.g., an abnormality detection circuit) 28. The processing unit 26 and the dimming unit 27 may be combined into one component. The processing unit 26 and the abnormality detection unit 28 may be combined into one component. Other components may also be combined as appropriate.

The processing unit 26 controls the operation unit 16, the display unit 25, the power conversion unit 18, the dimming unit 27, and the abnormality detection unit 28 according to various processes, and communicates with the wireless module 2 via the connection unit 14 and the wired transmission path 5.

In the second embodiment, the processing unit 26 executes the check mode according to the operation state of the operation unit 16 (e.g., the state of the check switch). The processing unit 26 may activate the check mode by itself, may cooperate with the abnormality detection unit 28 in the check mode to detect abnormalities, or may cooperate with the check mode of the wireless module 2. By operating the processing unit 26 in the check mode, the operator can check the wiring of, for example, the PWM signal line 23 and various operations.

The dimming unit 27 receives the converted power from the power conversion unit 18. The dimming unit 27 generates a dimming signal (PWM signal) based on the control of the processing unit 26, and transmits the generated dimming signal to the dimmer 21. The dimming unit 27 performs power control according to the dimming method.

The abnormality detection unit 28 executes an abnormality detection process in cooperation with the processing unit 26. When an abnormality is detected, the abnormality detection unit 28 stops the operation of the power box 22 to prevent a failure of the power box 22 and protect the power box 22. The abnormality detection unit 28 may be, for example, a PWM wiring protection circuit. The abnormality detection unit 28 may operate constantly while the power box 22 is energized and detect abnormalities. When an abnormality occurs, the processing unit 26 may stop the output of the power box 22 and transmit abnormality information to the controller 6 via the wired transmission path 5 and the wireless module 2.

The following describes the anomaly detection process that is performed by the anomaly detection unit 28 in cooperation with the processing unit 26.

For example, in conventional dimmers that require PWM wiring for dimming, incorrect wiring or a short circuit in the wiring can cause the circuit that outputs the signal to fail or be destroyed. To prevent such failure or destruction, conventional dimmers use fuses or similar protective elements to prevent circuit failure or destruction.

For example, in methods that use general protective fuses to prevent circuit failure or destruction, the fuse must be physically replaced when attempting to restore operation. If the fuse is an automatic reset type, a continuing short circuit will result in repeated interruption and recovery, causing a physical failure and making it necessary to replace the automatic reset fuse. If the automatic reset fuse is a board-mounted type, it may be necessary to replace the board itself.

In response to such a problem, in the second embodiment, the abnormality detection unit 28 is used to detect the abnormality. More specifically, the dimming unit 24 according to the second embodiment detects an abnormality such as a short circuit of the PWM signal line 23. The abnormality detection unit 28 includes, for example, a polyswitch. When the temperature becomes high, the resistance of the polyswitch increases and the circuit is finally cut off. In the second embodiment, for example, one end of the polyswitch is connected to one end of the signal line to be monitored, and the other end of the polyswitch is connected to the other end. The abnormality detection unit 28 transmits a voltage signal indicating the voltage generated at both ends of the polyswitch to the processing unit 26. The processing unit 26 receives the voltage signal from the abnormality detection unit 28 and detects the abnormality based on, for example, the amount of change in voltage per unit time. When the processing unit 26 detects an abnormality, it stops the operation or output of the circuit to be monitored by the abnormality detection unit 28. This can significantly reduce the failure or destruction of the power box 22 and prevent the occurrence of circuit replacement, etc.

In the second embodiment, for example, even if the PWM signal line 23 or the monitored circuit is shorted, the protection function is activated, so the power box 22 can be prevented from breaking down, and the lighting device 4 can be turned on again if the cause of the abnormality is eliminated.

When the processing unit 26 detects an abnormality, it transmits abnormality information to the controller 6 via the connection unit 14, the wired transmission path 5, and the wireless module 2. The controller 6 uses application software to display the abnormality information. This allows the worker to check the abnormality detected by the power box 22.

In the second embodiment described above, by combining a power box 22 with a lighting device 4 and a dimmer 21 that do not have wireless functionality, the lighting device 4 and the dimmer 21 can be incorporated into a lighting system 20 that has wireless functionality.

In the second embodiment, the power box 22 executes the check mode before the setup of the lighting system 20 is completed, and the operation check and the wiring check by the abnormality detection unit 28 and the processing unit 26 can be performed even before the setup of the lighting system 20.

In the second embodiment, the processing unit 26 and the abnormality detection unit 28 cooperate to detect an abnormality, and when an abnormality is detected, the operation or output of the circuit monitored by the abnormality detection unit 28 is stopped. This can significantly reduce the failure or destruction of the power box 22 and prevent the occurrence of circuit replacement, etc.

In the second embodiment, if an abnormality is detected in the power box 22, the controller 6 displays abnormality information. This allows the operator to check the abnormality that has occurred in the power box 22.

The dimmer 21 and lighting device 4 according to the second embodiment do not support wireless communication and do not have an abnormality detection function. However, by connecting the power box 22 according to the second embodiment to the dimmer 21, wireless communication and abnormality detection become possible, and the safety of the operation of the lighting system 20 can be ensured.

The power box 22 according to the second embodiment may transmit abnormality information to the controller 6 via the system gateway and the Internet. This allows the lighting system 20 to be monitored from an external controller 6.

The power box 22 according to the second embodiment includes an operation unit 16. Conventionally, in order to check whether the lighting device 4 and the dimmer 21 are on, it was necessary to wire them on-site and pair them with the controller 6. In contrast, in the second embodiment, the worker can turn the lighting on/off using the operation unit 16 provided in the power box 22, and can check the wiring in check mode without pairing. This improves the worker's workability on-site and allows the wiring to be checked before setup.

[Third embodiment]
The third embodiment is a modification of the power box 22 described in the second embodiment.

Figure 6 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a power box according to the third embodiment. In the power box 22 of Figure 6, only the components of the power box 22 of Figure 5 that will be described in the third embodiment are shown, and the other components are omitted.

The power box 22 according to the third embodiment has two PWM output systems 23A and 23B. The power box 22 transmits a PWM signal to the dimmer 21 via the two PWM output systems 23A and 23B.

The power box 22 according to the third embodiment includes a microcomputer 32, abnormality detection units 34A and 34B, and resistors 35A and 35B.

The microcomputer 32 includes a PWM dimming signal circuit 33A corresponding to the PWM output system 23A and a PWM dimming signal circuit 33B corresponding to the PWM output system 23B. The PWM dimming signal circuits 33A and 33B generate PWM signals and transmit the generated PWM signals to the dimmer 21 via the PWM output systems 23A and 23B.

The microcomputer 32 monitors the PWM signal (voltage) output from the PWM dimming signal circuit 33A to the PWM output system 23A, and further monitors the PWM signal output from the PWM dimming signal circuit 33B to the PWM output system 23B. The microcomputer 32 functions as the processing unit 26 and dimming unit 27 in FIG. 5. When the microcomputer 32 is started up and becomes energized, it starts detecting an abnormality.

Each of the abnormality detection units 34A and 34B is connected in series with each of the PWM dimming signal circuits 33A and 33B, and monitors, for example, the voltage at the resistor or polyswitch terminal.

Each of the abnormality detection units 34A and 34B outputs a measurement value (e.g., an actual measurement value or a captured value) of the voltage of the PWM signal to the microcomputer 32 via resistors 35A and 35B.

The microcomputer 32 compares the theoretical value with the measured value and detects an abnormality if the difference exceeds a specified range.

Generally, a PWM signal for lighting control (e.g., a dimming signal) is a pulse waveform with a frequency of 1 kHz and a voltage of about DC 12 V. The off signal is DC 12 V. Increasing the dimming level represented by the PWM signal (making it brighter) lengthens the off period in the PWM signal waveform. In this way, if the off period is longer, it becomes weak when converted into voltage. Also, there are cases where it is not possible to expect a current increase large enough to activate a polyswitch. For this reason, it is difficult to detect abnormalities in a PWM signal with a long off period.

However, in the third embodiment, the microcomputer 32 compares the theoretical value with the measured value to detect an abnormality, so that an abnormality can be detected even if the value obtained by converting the PWM signal into a voltage (e.g., the dimming level) is weak.

FIG. 7 is a graph showing an example of the relationship between the voltage and the average voltage of a PWM signal.
PWM is called pulse width modulation. In PWM, the average voltage is controlled by changing the width (Tp) of a pulse generated at a constant interval (T). For example, when the on-period of the waveform is long, the lighting device 4 emits light dimly, and when the on-period is short, the lighting device 4 emits light brightly. The power box 22 performs such output control of the PWM signal. In the process of abnormality detection, the power box 22 according to the third embodiment performs analog-to-digital conversion of the PWM signal by an AD conversion circuit and feeds the signal back to the microcomputer 32. Then, the power box 22 detects an abnormality when the time during which the difference between the theoretical value of the output PWM signal and the feedback measured value falls outside a predetermined range is equal to or longer than a predetermined period.

In the third embodiment described above, the power box 22 has two PWM output systems 23A and 23B, and anomaly detection units 34A and 34B are provided for each of the two PWM output systems 23A and 23B, and the microcomputer 32 detects anomalies in the two PWM output systems 23A and 23B by comparing theoretical values with measured values. This makes it possible to detect anomalies regardless of the dimming level indicated by the PWM dimming signal.

[Fourth embodiment]
The fourth embodiment is a modification of the wireless module according to the first or second embodiment.

Figure 8 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a wireless module 29 according to the fourth embodiment.

The wireless module 29 includes a first connection unit 91, a second connection unit 92, an operation unit 7, a display unit 8, and a communication module 30. The communication module 30 includes a communication antenna (wireless antenna) 11, a memory unit 12, and a calculation unit 31.

In the fourth embodiment, the wireless module 29 has multiple power input terminals, i.e., a first connection portion 91 and a second connection portion 92, so that the wireless module 29 can be used with different supply voltages. The calculation portion 31 switches its operation depending on which of the first connection portion 91 and the second connection portion 92 is being used.

This allows the wireless module 29 to be used with a first supply voltage power source, such as a DC 3.3V system, and also with a second supply voltage power source, such as DC 5 to 18V.

[Fifth embodiment]
In the fifth embodiment, a relationship between information stored in the wireless modules 2 and 29 and a controller (hereinafter referred to as a child controller) used as a subordinate (child) of the controller 6 will be described. In the following description, the wireless module 2 and the lighting system 1 will be described as representatives, but the same applies to the wireless module 29 and the lighting system 20.

The lighting system 1 plays a scene using one or more lighting devices 4. The lighting system 1 may be capable of realizing two types of modifications, a first modification and a second modification, to a standard scene in order to improve the convenience of workers and users.

The first change is, for example, a mode including leaving the standard scene, a temporary change, and returning to the standard scene.
The second change may be, for example, a mode for fine-tuning a standard scene.

The first change and the second change are common in that, for example, both of them change the standard scene based on the operation of the operator or user on the child controller. However, the first change and the second change differ in that the priority of the change is different.

In order to assign priority to change operations on the child controllers, the lighting system 1 is provided with multiple types of child controllers and stores various information in the memory unit 12 of the wireless module 2. The wireless module 2 executes processing based on the information in the memory unit 12.

As a specific example, the storage unit 12 of the wireless module 2 stores, for example, network information, unique identification information of the wireless module 2, facility information (including facility identification information), area information (area identification information), group information (including group identification information), at least one scene information (including, for example, scene level and fade time information), change information (for example, private mode level or user priority mode level), change return scene information (for example, private mode return scene level), temporary change information (temporary change level), and final state information (current state level for power outage recovery). Note that in the fifth embodiment, the facility is a target in which the lighting system 1 is introduced. The facility is divided into a plurality of areas. The facility may be, for example, one floor of a building. Each area is further divided into at least one group. At least one wireless module 2 belongs to each group.

The network information may include a network code (e.g., a mesh network key) that is assigned during pairing by operating the controller 6. The network information may also include login key information for functioning on the same network.

The unique identification information, facility information, area information, group information, and scene information are information used in the standard operation and communication of the lighting system 1. The unique identification information, facility information, area information, group information, and scene information are set by the controller 6, transmitted from the controller 6 to the wireless module 2, and stored in the memory unit 12 of the wireless module 2.

The change information and the change-return scene information are generated by an operator or user using a first slave controller capable of wireless communication with the wireless module 2, and are transmitted from the first slave controller to the wireless module 2 and stored in the memory unit 12 of the wireless module 2. The change information and the change-return scene information are used to realize the above-mentioned first change (leaving the standard scene, making a temporary change, or returning to the standard scene) or the above-mentioned second change (fine-tuning the standard scene).

The first child controller may be referred to as, for example, a private remote controller. By using the private remote controller, the worker or user can operate the brightness and color of the lighting devices 4 belonging to a specific area or a specific group without using the controller 6. For example, the worker or user can brighten the lighting devices 4 above him or her without changing the overall scene. In addition, the worker or user can turn off only the lighting devices of a specific group during a meeting, for example.

The change information is, for example, a value that is changed when leaving a scene using a private remote controller. Transition to a scene corresponding to the change information and the change return scene information is performed by the operator or user operating a private remote controller that has been set in advance by the controller 6.

The change information may include, for example, values related to brightness and color that have been changed or adjusted by the worker or user operating the private remote controller.

The change information is high-priority scene information (including brightness and color levels) set by the operator or user using a private remote controller. When the controller 6 or scene switch calls the change information stored in the storage unit 12 of the wireless module 2, the wireless module 2 executes a process to leave the scene being played and play the scene corresponding to the change information. Since the mode for playing the scene corresponding to this change information has a high priority, the playback of the scene of the change information set by this operator or user is maintained during the playback of the scene corresponding to the change information. Even if the wireless module 2 receives a scene change instruction from the controller 6, scene switch, or schedule timer, it prioritizes the scene of the change information and maintains the scene of the change information, and does not reflect the scene change instruction received from the controller 6, scene switch, or schedule timer until it receives a scene return instruction or a forced return instruction from the controller 6. Then, the wireless module 2 stores the contents of the scene change instruction received from the controller 6, scene switch, or schedule timer as change return scene information in the storage unit 12. Because the wireless module 2 receives instructions from an external timer (such as the controller 6 or gateway), there is no need for the wireless module 2 to have a timer function, which simplifies the configuration of the wireless module 2 and prevents costs from increasing even if the number of wireless modules 2 increases.

The changed reversion scene information includes the value of the scene (e.g. brightness or color) when reverting from a state in which the scene corresponding to the changed information was being played back. The wireless module 2 does not call up this changed reversion scene information until it receives a scene reversion instruction based on the operation of the operator or user, or a forced reversion instruction from the controller 6. When the wireless module 2 receives a scene reversion instruction or a forced reversion instruction, it calls up the changed reversion scene information and executes processing to play back the scene corresponding to the changed reversion scene information.

In the fifth embodiment, the change information and the change restoration scene information have a paired relationship. The wireless module 2 constantly manages the change restoration scene information, which includes the scene number and level information at the time of restoration, in the memory unit 12.

When scene playback is being performed for a specific area based on specific scene information, the wireless module 2 can cause a specific group belonging to this specific area to leave the scene by using, for example, change information. In a situation where scene departure is occurring, for example, assume that a transition occurs for a specific area from first scene information (for example, night scene information) to second scene information (for example, morning scene information). In this case, the wireless module 2 also transitions the changed return scene information from the first scene information to the second scene information. Upon return, the wireless module 2 calls and plays back the changed return scene information corresponding to the second scene information, thereby playing back a scene consistent with other wireless modules belonging to the same area. This makes it possible to play an appropriate scene even if time passes and the scene information applied changes.

The private remote controller transmits a command to the wireless module 2. This command includes, for example, a facility designation, an area designation, a group designation, a value indicating light intensity, a value indicating light brightness, and the like. The private remote controller stores, for example, network information, unique identification information of the wireless module 2, facility information, area information, and group information. The network information, unique identification information of the wireless module 2, facility information, area information, and group information stored in the private remote controller are, for example, set by the controller 6, and transmitted from the controller 6 to the private remote controller.

In the lighting system 1, distributed processing is implemented to distribute the risk of system destruction or failure and to secure wireless communication bandwidth. For this reason, the private remote controller mainly transmits commands to the wireless modules 2. Many of the various calculations and processes are executed by the individual wireless modules 2. Examples of commands include a command to brighten the lights, a command to dim the lights, a command to change the color temperature, an on/off command, a scene exit command, and a scene return command.

Even if the worker or user changes the scene using a private remote controller, the standard scene information is stored in the wireless module 2. This allows the worker or user to freely change the scene and then easily restore the scene. Also, the private remote controller may have fewer functions than the controller 6, and the worker or user can use the intuitive interface of the private remote controller.

The temporary change information stored in the memory unit 12 of the wireless module 2 is set by the controller 6 or a scene switch (e.g., a wall scene switch), transmitted from the controller 6 or the scene switch to the wireless module 2, and stored in the memory unit 12 of the wireless module 2. The temporary change information includes, for example, a temporarily changed scene level.

The transition to a mode in which a scene is played back based on temporary change information is performed by the operator or user operating the controller 6 or the scene switch.

The scene switch is connected to, for example, a gateway that relays communication between the controller 6 and the wireless module 2. In this case, the gateway performs wireless communication with, for example, the wireless module 2. The gateway has a timer function, and an operator or user may use the scene switch to turn the timer function of the gateway on/off. By using the scene switch, an operator or user can call up a scene, switch scenes, temporarily change the brightness, temporarily change the color temperature, start a schedule, and cancel a schedule without using the controller 6.

When the controller 6 or scene switch calls up the temporary change information stored in the memory unit 12 of the wireless module 2, all wireless modules 2 belonging to the area temporarily change the scene, for example, based on the scene information being played back and the temporary change information. This temporary scene change may have a lower priority than, for example, a scene change based on the above-mentioned change information. Since the temporary scene change based on the temporary change information has a lower priority, when different scene information is called up by an operator or user operation or a timer, the wireless module 2 may discard the temporary change information and start playing the scene corresponding to the different scene information.

During scene playback, the worker or user operates the up or down button of the scene switch to change the brightness, color temperature, etc. of the scene. The scene switch transmits a temporary change command, for example, via a gateway, to the wireless modules 2 of all groups belonging to a specific area of a specific facility. Since this temporary change has low priority, if the wireless module 2 receives another command from the controller 6 or the scene switch via the gateway after executing the temporary scene change, it discards the temporary change and transitions to a scene according to the received command.

In the fifth embodiment, the gateway may have a timer function and disable temporary changes to the wireless module 2 at a specified time.

The scene switch transmits a command to the wireless module 2 via the gateway. This command may include, for example, a facility specification, a specification of all groups belonging to a specific area, a value indicating light intensity, a value indicating light brightness, etc. The scene switch stores, for example, network information, unique identification information of the wireless module 2, facility information, area information, and group information. The network information, unique identification information of the wireless module, facility information, area information, and group information stored in the scene switch are, for example, set by the controller 6 and transmitted from the controller 6 to the scene switch.

Even if the worker or user changes the scene using the scene switch, the standard scene information is stored in the wireless module 2. This allows the worker or user to freely change the scene and then easily restore the scene. Also, the scene switch may have fewer functions than the controller 6, allowing the worker or user to use an intuitive interface.

The final state information represents the latest scene information when the power supply to the lighting system 1 is stopped (e.g., in the case of a power outage). When the power supply is resumed, the wireless module 2 reads the final state information from the storage unit 12 and plays the scene corresponding to the final state information. This allows the wireless module 2 to reproduce the scene immediately before the power supply was stopped.

In the fifth embodiment described above, various information set by the controller 6 is stored in the memory unit 12 of the wireless module 2. The wireless module 2 executes processing according to the contents stored in the memory unit 12 in accordance with commands received from the controller 6, child controller, gateway, etc.

In the fifth embodiment, the commands transmitted by the timer functions of the controller 6, the child controller, and the gateway have a simple data structure. This allows a mesh network to be constructed using multiple wireless modules 2, reducing the load on the network and speeding up the response. In the fifth embodiment, in order to secure the network bandwidth, the transmission and reception of responses to specific commands that do not require a response may be omitted. In the fifth embodiment, responses may be omitted depending on the type of command, but when the controller 6 transmits setting information to the wireless module 12, the controller 6 may receive a response from the wireless module 2 indicating that the setting information has been successfully received.

In the fifth embodiment, in order to ensure stable and reliable communication, multiple wireless modules 2 provided in the lighting system 1 may be capable of communicating with each other and may perform repeat communication of commands.

The embodiments of the present invention are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. The present embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the gist of the invention. The present embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope and gist of the invention, and are included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents described in the claims.

1, 20...lighting system, 2, 29...wireless module, 3...power supply unit, 4...lighting device, 5...wired transmission path, 6...controller, 7, 16...operation unit, 8, 25...display unit, 9, 14...connection unit, 10, 30...communication module, 11...communication antenna, 12, 15...storage unit, 13, 31...calculation unit, 17, 26...processing unit, 18...power conversion unit, 19, 27...dimming unit, 21...dimmer, 22...power box, 23...PWM signal line, 24...dimming unit, 28...abnormality detection unit

Claims (3)

A microcomputer including a first PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) dimming signal circuit that transmits a first PWM signal, the time change of which has a pulse waveform of voltage, via a first PWM output system to a dimmer connected to a lighting device, and a second PWM dimming signal circuit that transmits a second PWM signal, the time change of which has a pulse waveform of voltage, via a second PWM output system to the dimmer;
a first abnormality detection unit connected in series with the first PWM dimming signal circuit and configured to output a first voltage measurement value to the microcomputer;
a second abnormality detection unit connected in series with the second PWM dimming signal circuit and configured to output a second voltage measurement value to the microcomputer;
Equipped with
The microcomputer
detecting an abnormality when a time during which a difference between the first voltage measurement value and a theoretical value of the first PWM signal falls outside a predetermined range is equal to or longer than a predetermined period of time;
detecting an abnormality when a time during which a difference between the second voltage measurement value and a theoretical value of the second PWM signal is outside a predetermined range is equal to or longer than a predetermined period of time;
If an abnormality is detected, operation will be stopped.
Dimmer. The dimmer is non-wireless;
The dimmer of claim 1 , further comprising a wireless module connected to the microcomputer for wirelessly communicating with an external controller. When the microcomputer is started and turned on, it starts detecting an abnormality.
The dimmer of claim 1.

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