[DESCRIPTION]
[Title of Invention]
LIGHTING EQUIPMENT
[Technical Field]
[OOOl]
The present invention relates to an lighting equipment having an
illumination capability and an image projection capability.
[Background Art]
[0002]
An lighting equipment having an illumination capability and an image
projection capability has been known (see PTL 1 and PTL 2, for example).
[OOOS]
Lighting equipments disclosed in PTL 1 and PTL 2 (hereinafter referred to
as lighting equipment of related art) aye so configured that a projector
as an image projection apparatus is.provided on an inner wall surface of
a globe provided in the lighting equipment and the projector can project
an image under the condition that a light source for illumination is off.
[Citation List]
[Patent Literature]
[0004]
[PTL 11
JP-A-2006-127845
[PTL 21
JP-A-2006-86024
[Summary of Invent ion]
[Technical Problem]
[00051
Each of the lighting equipments of related art, however, in which the
projector is disposed by using the globe, can be formed on the precondition
that an lighting equipment including a globe is used, which
disadvantageously limits the type of lighting equipment useable to form
an lighting equipment having an illumination capability and an image
projection capability.
[0006]
Further, since each of the lighting equipments of related art is so
configured that the projector as an image projection apparatus is
incorporated separately fromthe light source for illumination, the light
source for illumination and a light source for the projector are
individually present, resulting in a large number of components in the
lighting equipment as a whole, which disadvantageously increases the price
and weight of the lighting eqdipment.
[Solution to Problem]
[00071
An advantage of some aspects of the invention is to provide an lighting
equipment having an illumination capability and an image projection
capability under the condition that the type of useable lighting equipment
is not greatly limited and the configuration of the lighting equipment can
be simplified.
[ooos]
[I] An aspect of the invention is directed to an lighting equipment having
an illumination capability and an image projection capability and
including a light source unit that functions as a light source for
illumination and a light source for image projection, an image formation
unit that modulates light from the light source unit based on image
information for illumination or image information for image projection to
form an image, a projection unit including a lens that projects the image
formed by the image formation unit on a projection surface, a control unit
that controls the light source and the image projection unit, and a
connection unit electrically connectable to an existing lighting equipment
attachment member.
[00091
Since the lighting equipment according to the aspect of the invention is
configured to accommodate a component necessary for image projection in
the lighting equipment, an lighting equipment having an illumination
capability and an image projection capability can be formed irrespective
of whether or not a globe or any other similar component is provided. The
limitation on the type of lighting equipment useable as an lighting
equipment having an illumination capability and an image projection
capability can therefore be reduced. Further, in the lighting equipment
according to.the aspect of the invention, the light source in the light
source unit functions as a light source for illuminationanda light source
for image projection. It is therefore unnecessary to individually provide
a light source for illumination and a light source for image projection,
whereby the configuration can be simplified and lightweight.
[OOlO]
Further, since the lighting equipment according to the aspect of the
invention includes the connection unit, which allows the lighting
equipment to be attached to an existing lighting equipment attachment
member, the lighting equipment according to the aspect of the invention
can be attached in the same manner as in a case where an incandescent lamp,
a bulb-shaped fluorescent lamp, a bulb-shaped LED lamp and the like are
attached. A typical user can therefore readily attach the lighting
equipment according to the aspect of the invention to a desired location
without relying on an expert.
[00111
[2] In the lighting equipment according to the aspect of the invention,
it is preferable that, when the light source functions as the light source
for illumination and an image projection instruction from a user is
detected, the control unit controls the image projection unit to project
an image.
[00121
The configuration described above allows the function of the lighting
equipment according to the aspect of the invention to be readily switched
from illumination to image projection.
[0013]
[3] In the lighting equipment according to the aspect of the invention,
it is preferable that the lighting equipment further includes a distance
measurement unit capable of measuring the distance to the projection
surf ace.
[0014]
Since the distance measurement unit described above is provided, an image
can be projected in accordance with the distance to an image display surface
that is measured by the distance measurement unit.
[oo 151
[4] In the lighting equipment according to the aspect of the invention,
it is preferable that the lens is expandable when a voltage is applied
thereto to change the focal length thereof, and the control unit adjusts
the focal length ofthe lensbyapplyingavoltage according tothe distance
to the projection surface that is measured by the distance measurement
unit.
[0016]
The configuration described above allows the focal length of the lens to
be automatically adjusted in accordance with the distance to the image
projection surface, whereby a clear image can be projected on the
projection surface without user's adjustment.
[oo 171
[5] In the lighting equipment according to the aspect of the invention,
it is preferable that the lighting equipment further includes an imaging
unit capable of capturing an image of an instruction action performed by
a user, and the control unit performs control corresponding to the
instruction action performed by the user based on captured image data
outputted from the imaging unit.
[0018]
The configuration described above allows the user to perform a various
types of control on the lighting equipment according to the aspect of the
invention without directly touching the lighting equipment according to
the aspect of the invention. An exemplary instruction action performed
by the user includes user's action (gesture) of waving a hand of the user
rightward and leftward predetermined times. The control described above
is achieved by relating user's instruction actions to control actions.
[0019]
[6] In the lighting equipment according to the aspect of the invention,
it is preferable that the lighting equipment further includes an audio
output unit capable of outputting audio.
[00201
The configuration described above allows the lighting equipment not only
to project an image but also to output audio, whereby the application of
the lighting equipment according to the aspect of the invention can be
diversified.
[002l]
[7] In the lighting equipment according to the aspect of the invention,
it is preferable that the control unit has a function of acquiring image
information corresponding to an image to be projected over a network.
[0022]
The configuration described above allows the lighting equipment to project
a variety of image. For example, the lighting equipment capable of
acquiring information present in a Web site can readily display necessary
inf ormat ion.
[0023]
[8] In the lighting equipment according to the aspect of the invention,
it is preferable that the control unit has a func'tion of projecting a
selection screen that allows a user to select the type of image to be
projected.
Lo0241
The configuration described above allows the lighting equipment to display
information in a various types of fields, whereby the application of the
lighting equipment according to the aspect of the invention can be
diversified.
[0025]
[9] In the lighting equipment according to the aspect of the invention,
it is preferable that the lighting equipment connection member is one of
a bulb attachment socket, a bulb attachment receptacle, a hooking rosette,
and a hooking ceiling.
[0026]
By employing a configuration in which a connection unit corresponding to
any of the lighting equipment attachment members described above is
attachedtothe lighting equipment according tothe aspect ofthe invention,
the lighting equipment according to the aspect of the invention can be
readily attached as in a case where a typical lighting equipment is
attached. Further, since the lighting equipment according to the aspect
of the invention can be removed in a simple removal operation, the user
can readily change the location where the lighting equipment is attached.
[Brief Description of Drawings]
[0027]
[Fig. 11
Fig. 1 diagrammatically shows the configuration of an lighting equipment
according to a first embodiment.
[Fig. 21
Fig. 2 diagrammatically shows the configuration of an optical system of
the lighting equipment according to the first embodiment.
[Fig. 31
Fig. 3 describes an example of attachment of the lighting equipment
according to the first embodiment.
[Fig. 41
Fig. 4 shows an example of projection in which the lighting equipment
according to the first embodiment projects an image on an upper surface
of a cooking table.
[Fig. 51
Fig. 5 is a flowchart for describing basic operation of the lighting
equipment accor'ding to the first embodiment.
[Fig. 61
Fig. 6 describes an lighting equipment according to a second embodiment.
[Fig. 71
Fig. 7 is a flowchart for describing a series of operations of the lighting
equipment according to the second embodiment.
[Fig. 81
Fig. 8 is a flowchart for describing how processes are carried out after
a user selects the type of image through a menu selection screen.
[Fig. 9A]
Fig. 9A i.llustrates a case where an lighting equipment is attached to a
hooking ceiling attached to a ceiling.
[Fig. 9R]
Fig. 9B illustrates a case where an lighting equipment is attached to a
hooking ceiling attached to a ceiling.
[Description of Embodiments]
[0028]
Lighting equipments according to embodiments of the invention will be
described below.
[00291
First Embodiment
Fig. 1 diagrammatically shows the configuration of an lighting equipment
10 according to a first embodiment. In Fig. 1, the solid-line arrows
represent the flow of an electric signal, and the open arrows represent
the travel of light.
[0030]
The lighting equipment 10 according to the first embodiment is an lighting
equipment having an exterior configuration including an lighting equipment
body 100 and a connection unit (referred to as connection member in some
cases) 200 by which the lighting equipment body 100 is connected to an
existing lighting equipment attachment member (bulb attachment receptacle
or bulb attachment socket, for example) 300, as shown in Fig. 1.
The lighting equipment body 100 includes a light source unit 110, an image
formation unit 120, a lens 130 that projects an image formed by the image
formation unit 120 on a projection surface, a distance measurement unit
140 that can measure the distance from the lighting equipment body 100 to
the projection surface, an imaging unit 150 that can capture an image of
an instruction action (which will be described later) performed by a user,
electrodes 160 through which a voltage is applied to the lens 130, and a
control unit 170. Each of the above components will be described later
in derail.
[0032]
It is assumed in the lighting equipment 10 according to the first embodiment
that the connection member 200 is similar to a base with which an
incandescent lamp, a bulb-shaped fluorescent lamp, and a bulb-shaped LED
lamp are provided. The lighting equipment 10 according to the first
embodiment can therefore be connected to a bulb attachment receptacle or
a bulb attachment socket by screwing the base into the bulb attachment
receptacle or the bulb attachment socket, which is an example of the
lightingequipment attachment member 300, as in the case of an incandescent
lamp, a bulb-shaped fluorescent lamp, a bulb-shaped LED lamp and the like.
[0033]
Fig. 2 diagrammatically shows the configuration of an optical system of
the lighting equipment 10 according to the first embodiment. The optical
system of the lighting equipment 10 according to the first embodiment is
formed of the light source unit 110, the image formation unit 120, and the
lens 130 as a projection lens, as shown in Fig. 2. The image formation
unit 120 is formed of a liquid crystal light modulator and hereinafter also
referred to as a liquid crystal light modulator 120. As described above,
the optical system of the lighting equipment 10 according to the first
embodiment is configured in substantially the same manner as a single-panel
liquid crystal projector. A combination of the liquid crystal light
modulator 120 and the lens 130 is referred to as an image projection unit
190.
Lo0341
The light source unit 110 includes a light source 111 (which is assumed
to be white light emitting diode), a collimator system 112, and a
polarization converter 113. The light source 111, although not described
herein in detail, emits light containing red light, green light, and blue
light. Further, the light source 111 functions as a light source for
illumination and a light source of the image projection unit 190.
[00351
The collimator system 112 is an optical element that parallelizes light
emitted from the light source 111. The polarization converter 113 is an
element that converts the polarization direction of the light passing
through the collimator system 112. The polarization converter 113
includes a polarization separation layer that processes light incident
t h e r e o n i n s u c h a w a y t h a t t h e incident light is separatedinto two linearly
polarized components: one of the linearly polarized components that
directly passes through the polarization separation layer; and the other
one of the linearly polarized components that is reflected off the
polarization separation layer in the direction perpendicular to an'
illumination optical axis IlOax, a reflection layer that reflects the other
linearly polarized component having been reflected off the polarization
separation layer in the direction parallel to the illumination optical axis ,
IlOax, and a retardation film that converts the other linearly polarized
component having been reflected off the reflection layer into the one
linearly polarized component.
[0036]
The liquid crystal light modulator 120 is a light modulator that modulates
the light from the light source unit 110 in accordance with image
information to be projected and outputs resultant full-color image
light. The liquid crystal light modulator 120 has a color filter (not
shown). The color filter is formed of a Bayer-layout color filter having
reflective dichroic filters andhas afunctionas acolor separation system
that separates the light from the light source unit 110 into red light,
green light, and blue light on a pixel basis. The color separation system
may be formed of any other suitable color separation system.
[00371
The liquid crystal light modulator 120 further includes a
light-incident-side polarizer (not shown) disposed on the side where the
polarization converter 113 is present and a light-exiting-side polarizer
(not shown) disposed on the side where the lens 130 is present. The
configuration described above allows light modulation for each of the color
components.
[0038]
The ].ens 130 is expandable (changeable in width) in accordance with the
magnitude of a voltage applied to the electrodes 160 (see Fig. 1) for focal
length adjustment (referred to as focus adjustment). A lens of this type
is well known, and some lenses each have a width that changes by a value
ranging, for example, from 750 to 375 micrometers when a voltage of 20 volts
is applied to the electrodes.
[0039]
Using the lens. 130 described above as a projection lens 'allows an image
formed by the liquid crystal light modulator 120 to be enlarged and
projected on the projection surface. When the lighting equipment 10
according to the first embodiment is used, for example, in a kitchen (see
Figs. 3 and 4), an upper surface 431 of a cooking table 430 or the like
can be the projection surface.
[00401
The distance measurement unit 140 measures the distance fromthe lighting
equipment body 100 to the projection surface, and distance data outputted
from the distance measurement unit 140 is sent to the control unit 170. The
imaging unit 150 is so disposed that it can capture an image of an
instruction action (which will be described later) performed by the user,
and imaged data outputted from the imaging unit 150 is sent to the control
unit 170.
[0041]
The control unit 170 has not only a function of controlling the light source
111 in the light source unit 110, the liquid crystal light modulator 120,
the lens 130, the distance measurement unit 140, and the imaging unit 150
but also a Web information acquisition function that allows acquisition
of information present in a Web site, a communication function that allows
reception of television broadcasting (hereinafter referred to as TV
broadcasting) or the like, and other similar functions. The control unit
170 includes a storage unit (not shown).
[0042]
In the thus configured lighting equipment 10, the light source unit 110,
the image formation unit 120, and the lens 130 are arranged along a single
straight line. When the lighting equipment 10 performs the illumination
capability, the image projection unit 190 projects a white image.
[00431
Fig. 3 describes an example of attachment of the lighting equipment 10
according to the first embodiment. Fig. 3 shows attachment of the lighting
equipment10 inakitchen400 inatypical dwelling. The lighting equipment
attachment member 300 is a bulb attachment receptacle (hereinafter
abbreviated to receptacle 300) originally attached to a ceiling 410 of the
kitchen 400, and the lighting equipment 10 is attached to the receptacle
300 by screwing the connection member 200 (see Fig. 1) into the receptacle
300. Further, the lighting equipment 10 is so attached that the lighting
equipment 10 can project an image in a predetermined range G (also referred
to as projection range G) (see Fig. 4) on the upper surface 431 of the
cooking table 430 installed on a floor 420 of the kitchen 400 and that the
lighting equipment 10 can illuminate a predetermined range including the
projection range G.
roo441
When a power switch is turned on, the light source 111 in the light source
unit 110 goes on first and the lighting equipment 10 performs the
illumination capability. The power switch used herein is not a switch
provided on the lighting equipment 10 but is a switch (referred to as main
switch) 440 (see Fig. 3) provided, for example, on a wall of a room where
the lighting equipment 10 is installed.
[0045]
Fig. 4 shows an example of projection in which the lighting equipment 10
according to the first embodiment projects an image on the upper surface
431 of the cooking table 430. As shown in Fig. 4, a recipe for a desired,
preparation is, for example, projected in the projection range G on the
upper surface 431 of the cooking table 430. Such a recipe can be acquired,
for example, from a Web site. A cook can cook the preparation while seeing
the recipe projected within the projection range G.
[0046]
Fig. 5 is a flowchart for describing basic operation of the lighting
equipment 10 according to the first embodiment. The flowchart shown in
Fig. 5 primarily describes the operation of the control unit 170 of the
lighting equipment 10 and also contains part of user's operation.
[0047]
When the user turns on the main switch 440 (step Sl), the light source 111
in the light source unit 110 goes on (step S2). When the control unit 170
detects that the light source 111 has gone on, the control unit 170
instructs the image projection unit 190 to project a white image at this
point. As a result, the projection range G is illuminated with white light
containing no image. In this state, the lighting equipment 10 according
to the first embodiment performs the illumination capability.
[0048]
The focus adjustment made by the lens 130 can be used not only when an image
is projected but also when an object is illuminated. For example, suppose
a case where the focusing adjustment is so made by the lens 130 that the
area over which the illumination light spreads (diffuses) is maximized. In
this case, the light radiated from the lighting equipment body 100 can
illuminate an area larger than the projection range G, which is very
convenient to carry out a series of work. Conversely, when the focusadjustment
is so made by the lens 130 that the light is projected within
the projection range G, the light radiated from the lighting equipment body
100 can have a spotlight-like shape, which is very convenient to carry out
fine works. As described above, even when the lighting equipment 10
performs the illumination capability, the degree of spread, theuniformity,
and other attributes of the illumination light can be adjusted based on
the focus adjustment made by the lens 130.
[0049]
In the state ih which the lighting equipment 10 performs the illumination
capability, the control unit 170 determines whether or not the distance
to the projection surface needs to be measured (step S3). When the control
unit 170 determines that the distance measurement needs to be made ("Yes"
in step S3), an instruction to make the distance measurement is issued to
the distance measurement unit 140, and distance data measured by the
distance measurement unit 140 is saved in the storage unit (not shown) (step
S4). At this point, the control unit 170 switches to a state in which it
waits an image projection start instruction, and determines whether or not
the image projection start instruction has been issued in the state in which
the control unit 170 waits the image projection start instruction (step
s5).
[OOSO]
In step 53 described above, the reason why the control unit 170 determines
whether or not the distance measurement needs to be made is that when the
distancebetweenthelightingequipmentbody100andtheprojectionsurface
is fixed, and after the distance measurement is made once, no more distancemeasurement
is required or the following distance measurement can be
omitted. Whether or not the distance measurement needs to be made can be
determined based on whether or not measured distance data has been saved
in the storage unit. When the control unit 170 determines that no distance
measurement needs to be made in step S3 ("No" in step S3), the control unit
170 outputs no distance measurement instruction to the distance
measurement unit 140 and proceeds to the process in step S5.
[0051]
When the user issues the image projection start instruction ("Yes" in step
S5) at this point, the control unit 170 applies a predetermined voltage
to the lens 130 based on the distance data saved in the storage unit to
allow the lens 130 to undergo focus adjustment (step S6) and starts image
projection (step 57). Since an image projected within the projection range
G is projected through the lens having undergone the focus adjustment in
accordance with the distance to the projection surface, a clear image is
projected.
[00521
The user issues the image projection start instruction by performing a
predetermined act ion (gesture) under the 1 ighting equipment body 100. For
example, the user waves a hand of the user twice rightward and
leftward. The imaging unit 150 captures an image of the action performed
by the user, and the imaged data is sent to the control unit 170, which
identifies what action the user has performed based on the imaged data and
performs control corresponding to the result of the identification. The
control described above can be performed by relating user's instruction
actions to control actions. .
[00531
In the state in which the lighting equipment 10 performs the image
projection capability, the control unit 170 switches to a state in which
it waits an image projection stop instruction and determines whether or
not the image projection stop instruction has been issued in the state in
which the control unit 170 waits the image projection stop instruction
(step S8). To issue the image projection stop instruction, the user
performs a predetermined action under the lighting equipment body 100 in
the same manner as in the case where the user issues the image projection
start instruction. For example, the user waves a hand of the user four
times rightward and leftward. '
l-00541
The imaging unit 150 captures an image of the action performed by the user,
and the imaged data is sent to the control unit 170, which identifies what
action the user has performed based on the imaged data and performs control
corresponding to the result of the identification. When the control unit
170 determines the user's action as the image projection stop instruction
("Yes" in step S8), the image projection is terminated and the voltage
application to the lens 130 is terminated (step S9). The lighting
eq~~ipment1 0 then switches to the state in which it performs the
illumination capability.
As described above, in the lighting equipment 10, since the image
projection unit 190 (image formation unit 120 and lens 130) is incorporated
in the lighting equipment body 100, an lighting equipment having an
illumination capability and an image projection capability can be formed
irrespective of whether or not a globe or any other component is
provided. The limitation on the type of lighting equipment useable as an
lighting equipment having an image projection capability can therefore be
reduced.
[0056]
Further, in the lighting equipment 10, the light source 111 functions as
a light source for illumination and alight source for image projection. It
is therefore unnecessary to individually provide a light source for
illumination and a light source for image projection, whereby the
configuration can be simplified and lightweight.
[0057]
Further, since the lighting equipment 10 includes the connection member
200, which allows the lighting equipment 10 to be electrically connected
to the existing lighting equipment attachment member 300, the lighting
equipment 10 according to the first embodiment can be attached in the same
manner as in a case where an incandescent lamp, a bulb-shaped fluorescent
lamp, a bulb-shaped LED and the 1ike.are attached. A typical user can
therefore readily attach the lighting equipment 10 to a desired location
without relying on an expert.
[00581
Further, since the user of the lighting equipment 10 can issue a variety
of instructions, such as the image projection start instruction and the
image projection stop instruction, to the lighting equipment 10 by
performing predetermined actions (gestures), the user does not need to
directly touch a switch for switching. That is, for example, in the course
of cooking, a hand having touched a food material, a hand wet with water,
or a hand otherwise contaminated with a substance does not need to come
into direct contact with the lighting equipment 10, whereby the lighting
equipment will not become dirty or malfunction due to water. Conversely,
a food material will not be touched with a hand having touched the lighting
equipment, whereby excellent sanitary conditions are ensured.
[0059]
Further, the lighting equipment 10 includes the lens 130, which can make
focus adjustment through voltage application, and a voltage according to
the distance to the projection surface is applied to the lens 130 for focus
adjustment. When the thus configured lighting equipment 10 according to
the first embodiment is used in image projection, an image to be projected
on the projection surface can be automatically so adjusted that the image
becomes more clear.
[0060]
Second Embodiment
An lighting equipment 20 according to a second embodiment allows the user
to select the type of image to be projected, The configuration of the
lighting equipment 20 according to the second embodiment is basically the
same as that shown in Fig. 1 but differs therefrom in that audio may be
outputted depending on the type of image being projected. To this end,
the lighting equipment 20 according to the second embodiment includes an
audio output unit (speaker) 180.
[0061]
Fig. 6 describes the lighting equipment 20 according to the second
embodiment. Fig. 6 diagrammatically shows the configuration of the
lighting equipment 20, and the arrows shown in Fig. 6 mean as follows: the
solid-line arrows represent the flow of an electric signal ; and the open
arrows represent the travel of light, as in Fig. 1.
[0062]
The lighting equipment 20 includes the audio output unit 180, as shown in
Fig. 6. The lighting equipment 20 is the same as the lighting equipment
according to the first embodiment except that the audio output unit 180
is provided, and the same components therefore have the same reference
characters. Further, it is assumed that the lighting equipment 20 is
attached in the same manner as in Figs. 3 and 4.
[0063]
It is assumed that types of images projectable from the lighting equipment
20 include not only information present in a Web site as in the case of
the lighting equipment 10 according to the first embodiment but also TV
broadcasting and memorandum information. The latter is inputted by the
user, for example, through a software keyboard.
[0064]
Fig. 7 is a flowchart for describing the operation of the lighting equipment
20. The flowchart shown in Fig. 7 primarily describes the operation of
the control unit 170 and also contains part of user's operation, as in the
case of the flowchart shown in Fig. 5. Steps S11 to S16 are the same as
S1 to S6 in Fig. 5, and no description thereof will therefore be made.
[0065]
A description will be made of a case where the control unit 170 determines
in step S15 that the image projection start instruction has been
issued. When the control unit 170 determines that the image projection
start instruction has been issued, the focus adjustment is made by the lens
130 (step S16), and then a selection screen that allows the user to select
- the type of image to be projected (referred to as menu selection screen)
is projected (step S17). After the menu selection screen is displayed,
the control unit 170 determines whether or not the user has selected the
type of image through the menu selection screen (step S18).
[0066]
When the user selects the type of image ("Yes" in step S18), the control
proceeds along a path "A" (see Fig. 8), whereas when the user has selected
no type of image ("No" in step S18), it is determined whether or not the
image projection stop instruction has been issued (step S19). When it is
determined that the image projection stop instructionhas been issued, the
control proceeds to step S20. Step ,520 is the same as step S9 in Fig. 5,
and no description thereof will therefore be made,
[0067]
To select the type of image through the projected menu selection screen,
for example, the user performs an action of issuing an instruction with
a finger or any other object through the menu selection screen. The imaging
unit 150 captures an image of the action performed by the user, and the
imaged data is sent to the control unit 170, which can identify what image
the user has selected.
[0068]
Fig. 8 is a flowchart for describing how processes are carried out after
the user selects the type of image through the menu selection screen. In
the menu selection screen, the following three types of selectable images
are provided : "Web information; " "TV broadcasting; " and "memorandum
information. " The user can select any of the three types of information
sources.
[0069]
In Fig. 8, it is first determined whether or not the user has selected "Web
information" (step S31). When it is determined that the user has selected
the Web information ("Yes" in step S31), the Web information selected by
the user is projected (step S32). The Web information selected by the user
is, for example, a cooking recipe, as in the situation associated with the
lighting equipment according to the first embodiment.
[0070]
After the Web information is projected, it is determined whether or not
the user is performing a certain control action (page turning, for example)
(step S33). When the user is performing a certain control action ("Yes"
in step S33), screen control corresponding to the control action is
performed (step S34). The screen control performed in this process is,
for example, control inwhich the pages ofthe recipe are turned inresponse
to user's page turning action. In this case as well, the imaging unit 150
captures an image of the action performed by the user (page turning). The
control unit 170 then identifies user's action based on the imaged data
outputted from the imaging unit 150 and performs screen control in which
pages of 'the recipe are turned in response to user's page turning action.
[0071]
On the other hand, when it is determined that the user has not performed
the control action described above ("No" in step S33), it is determined
whether or not an instruction to stop projecting the currently projected
image, that is, the image selected through the menu selection screen
(referred to as selected image), has been issued (step S35).
[0072]
When it is determined that the selected image projection stop instruction
has been issued ("Yes" in step S35), the control unit 170 stops projecting
the selected image. When audio is outputted with the selected image, the
control unit 170 also stops outputting the audio (step S36). The control
then proceeds along a path "B", and it is determined whether or not the
image projection stop instruction has been issued (step S19 in Fig.
7). When no selected image projection stop instruction has been issued
in step S35 in Fig. 8 ("No" in step S35), the control proceeds along a path
"Cl" and returns to step S32, and the Web information is kept projected.
[00731
On the other hand, when the control proceeds along the path "B" after step
S36, it is determined whether or not the image projection stop instruction
has been issued in step S19 in Fig. 7. The process of determining whether .
or not the image projection stop instruction has been issued is a process
of determining whether or not the image projection is terminated and the
lighting equipment 20 is allowed to perform the illumination
capability. When it is determined that the image projection stop
instruction has been issued ("Yes" in step S19), the image projection is
terminated and the voltage application to the lens 130 is also terminated
(step S20). As a result, the lighting equipment 20 performs the
illumination capability. On the other hand, when it is determined that
no image projection stop instruction has been issued ("No" in step S19),
the control returns to step S17, where the user can perform menu selection
again.
[0074]
When it is determined in step S.31 in Fig. 8 that the information selected
by the user is not "Web information" ("No" in step S31), it is determined
whether or not the information selected by the user is "memorandum,,
information" (step S37). When it is determined that the user has selected
the memorandum informat ion ("Yes" in step S37), a memorandum informat ion
input screen (software keyboard, for example) is projected (step S38).
Lo0751
It is then determined whether or not the user has performed a certain
control action (whether or not the user has inputted, for example, a
character through the software keyboard, for example) (step S39). When
. it is determined that a certain control action has been performed ("Yes"
in step S39), screen control according to the control action is performed
(step S40). The screen control in this case is, for example, control in
which the imaging unit 150 captures an image of the character or any other
object inputted by the user and the control unit 170 projects memorandum
information based on the imaged data outputted from the imaging unit 150;.
On the other hand, when it is determined that the user has not performed
the control action described above ("No" in step S39), the process in step
S35 is carried out. The processes in step S35 and the following steps are
the same as those having been described, and no description thereof will
therefore be made. When it is determined that no selected image projection
stop instruction has been issued in step S35 ("No" in step S35), the control
proceeds along a path "C2" and returns to step S38, and the memorandum
information input screen is kept projected.
Loo771
When it is determined in step 537 in Fig. 8 that the information selected
by the user is not "memorandum information" ("No" in step S37), TV
broadcasting is projected and the audio output unit 180 is activated
(turned on) (step S41). It is then determined whether or not the user has
performed a certain control action (channel switching, for example) (step
S42). When it is determined that a certain control action has been
performed ("Yes" in step S42), screen control according to the control
action is performed (step S43).
[0078]
On the other hand, when it is determined that the user has not performed
the control action described above ("No" in step S42), the process in step
S35 is carried out. The processes in step S35 and the following steps are
the same as those having been described, and no description thereof will
therefore be made. When no selected image projection stop instruction has
been issued in step ,535, the control proceeds along a path "C3" and returns
to step S41, and the TV broadcasting is kept projected.
[0079]
As described above, since the type of image to be projected from the
lighting equipment 20 can be selected and the selected image can be
projected, the usage of the lighting equipment 20 having an image
projection capability canbe advantageously diversifiedin addition tothe
advantageous effect provided by the lighting equipment 10 according to the
first embodiment.
[0080]
The invention has been described with reference to the above embodiments,
but the invention is not limited thereto and a variety of variations can
be implemented to the extent that they do not depart from the substance
of the invention. For example, the following variations are conceivable:
[008 11
(1) The type, the shape, and other attributes of the lighting equipment
body 100, which forms the lighting equipment according to any of the
embodiments described above, are not limited to the type and shape of the
lighting equipment body shown in the embodiment described above. For
example, the lighting equipment body 100 has a spherical shape in the
embodiments described above, but the lighting equipment body 100 does not
necessarily have a spherical shape and may alternatively have a cylindrical
shape, a box-like shape, and a variety of other shapes.
[0082]
(2) The above embodiments have been described with reference to the case
where the lighting equipment according to any of the embodiments of the
invention is attached to the ceiling. The lighting equipment is not
necessarily attached to the ceiling and may be attached to a wall or a
pillar. Still alternatively, instead of installing the lighting equipment
on the ceiling, a wall, or a column, the lighting equipment can be. used
as a hand light. To use the lighting equipment as a hand light, the
connection member 200 may be changed to a connection member adaptable to
a bulb attachment socket for the hand light.
[0083]
(3) The above embodiments have been described with reference to the case
where the lighting equipment according to any of the embodiments of the
invention is attached in a kitchen in a dwelling. The lighting equipment
is not necessarily attached in a kitchen and can be attached in a variety
of other places, such as a living room, a bedroom, and a study. Further,
the lighting equipment can even be attached, for example, in a shop instead
of a dwelling.
[0084]
(4) In each of the embodiments described above, the lighting equipment
according to the embodiment of the invention is attached to the lighting
equipment attachment member (receptacle) 300 directly attached to the
ceiling, but the lighting equipment is not necessarily attached to the
receptacle 300. For example, when the lighting equipment attachment
member (bulb socket, for example) 300 is suspended from the ceiling with
a connection cable, the lighting equipment according to the embodiment of.
the invention can be attached to the suspended bulb socket.
[0085]
(5) The above embodiments have been described with reference to the case
where the connection member 200 is a connection member (threaded base)
connectable to a bulb attachment receptacle or a bulb attachment socket,
but the connection member 200 is not limited thereto. For example, in a
case where a hooking ceiling or a hooking rosette is attached as the
lighting equipment attachment member to the ceiling or any other surface,
the connection member 200 may be a connection member connectable to the
hooking ceiling or the hooking rosette. In this case, a connection cable
may be extended from the lighting equipment body 100, and a connection
member connectable to the hooking ceiling or the hooking rosette may be
attached to the end of the connection cable.
Figs. 9A and 9B describe a case where an lighting equipment is attached
to a hooking ceiling 500 attached to the ceiling 410. A description will
be made of a case where the lighting equipment 10 according to the first
embodiment is attached, It is, however, noted that the lighting equipment
20 according to the second embodiment can be attached in the same manner
as the lighting equipment 10 according to the first embodiment. In Figs.
9A and 9B, the internal configuration of the lighting equipment body 100
is omitted.
[0087]
To attach the lightingequipment10tothehooking ceiling500, aconnection
member 210 for the hooking ceiling 500 is used as the connection member,
as shown in Figs. 9A and 9B. A connection cable 211 is extended from the
lighting equipment body 100, and the connection member 210 for the hooking
ceiling 500 is attached to the end of the connection cable 211, as shown
inFig. 9A. The configuration describedabove allowsthe connectionmember
210 for the hooking ceiling to be attached to the hooking ceiling 500
attached to the ceiling 410, as shown in Fig. 9A.
[0088]
In Figs. 9A and 9B, the lighting equipment 10 according to the first
embodiment is attached to the hooking ceiling 500, but the lighting
equipment 10 according to the first embodiment can alternatively be
. attached to a hooking rosette. In this case, although not shown, a
connectionmember for ahookingrosettemaybeusedasthe connectionmember
provided on the side where the lighting equipment 10 is present.
[0089]
(6) In the embodiments described above, image information to be projected
is not limited to Web information, TV broadcasting, or other similar
information. For example, image information saved in a personal computer
can be projected.
[0090]
(7) The above embodiments have been described with reference to the case
where a liquid crystal light modulator is used as a light modulator in the
image formation unit 120, but the light modulator is not limited to a liquid
crystal light modulator. The light modulator may alternatively be a
digital micromirror device.
[009 1 I
(8) The above embodiments have been described with reference to the case
where the lighting equipment 10 that performs the illumination capability
projects a white image displayed on the liquid crystal light modulator 120
through the image projection unit 190, but awhite image is not necessarily
displayed. When the lighting equipment 10 performs the illumination
capability, the liquid crystal light modulator 120 may be set to be
transparent (no image is produced but the modulator stays transparent) or
may be mechanically so retracted that the modulator does not overlap with
the light source unit 110. The configuration described above more
efficiently ensures predetermined brightness.
roo921
(9) In each of the embodiments described above, the focus adjustment is
so made in the lighting equipment 10 that the thickness of the lens 130
is controlled by applying a voltage to the electrodes 160, but the focus
adjustment is not necessarily made this way. The lens 130 may
alternatively be provided with a threaded portion, and the focus adjustment
maybemadebymanuallyscrewingthe lens 130. The configuration described
above allows the number of parts to be reduced, whereby the lighting
equipment can be more simplified and more lightweight.
[Reference Signs List]
[0093]
10, 20 Lighting equipment
100 Lighting equipment body
110 Light source unit
11 1 Light source
112 Collimator system
113 Polarization converter
120 Image formation unit (liquid crystal light modulator)
130 Lens
140 Distance measurement unit
150 Imaging unit
160 Electrode
170 Control unit
180 Audio output unit
190 Image projection unit
200 Connection member
210 Connection member for hooking ceiling
211 Connection cable
300 Lighting equipment attachment member
400 Kitchen
410 Ceiling
430 Cooking table
431 Upper surface of cooking table
500 Hooking ceiling
G Projection range
[CLAIMS]
[Claim 11
An lighting equipment having an illumination capability and an image
projection capability, the lighting equipment comprising:
a light source unit that functions as a light source for illumination and
a light source for image projection;
an image formation unit that modulates light from the light source unit
based on image information for illumination or image information for image
projection to form an image;
a projection unit including a lens that projects the image formed by theimage
formation unit on a projection surface;
a c o n t r o l u n i t t h a t c o n t r o l s t h e l i g h t s o u r c e a n d t h e i m a g e p r o j e c t i o n u n i t ;
and
a connection. unit electrically connectable to an existing lighting
equipment attachment member.
[Claim 21
The lighting equipment according to claim 1,
wherein when the light source functions as the light source for
illumination and an image projection instruction from a user is detected,
the control unit controls the image projection unit to project an image.
[Claim 31
The lighting equipment according to claim 1,
further comprising a distance measurement unit capable of measuring the
distance to the projection surface.
[Claim 41
The lighting equipment according to claim 3,
wherein the lens is expandable when a voltage is applied thereto to change
the focal length thereof, and
the control unit adjusts the focal length of the lens by applying a voltage
according to the distance to the projection surface that is measured by
the distance measurement unit.
[Claim 51
The lighting equipment according to claim 1,
further comprising an imaging unit capable of capturing an image of an
instruction action performed by a user,
wherein the control unit performs control corresponding tothe instruction
action performed by the user based on captured image data outputted from
the imaging unit.
[Claim 61
The lighting equipment according to claim 1,
further comprising an audio output unit capable of outputting audio.
[Claim 71
The lighting equipment according to claim 1,
wherein the control unit has a function of acquiring image information
corresponding to an image to be projected over a network.
[Claim 81
The lighting equipment according to claim 1,
wherein the control unit has a function of projecting a selection screen
that allows a user to select the type of image to be projected.
[Claim 91
'I'he 1 ighting ecluipment according to claim I,
wherein the connection member is connectable to any of a bulb attachment
socltet, a bulb attachment receptacle, a hooking rosette, and a hooking
ceiling.