WO2014073972A2 - Method for configuring light sources in a space - Google Patents

Abstract

Method for composing a light source configuration in a space, for illuminating objects in the space comprising steps of: - analysing a configuration model comprising objects and a reference point, in which configuration model object data have been included for each object, such as illumination data, object dimensions, and an object position with respect to the reference point, wherein at least one scene type has been defined for a scene that can be evoked in the space by means of the light source configuration, - analysing a light source collection in which light source data have been included for each light source, - determining the light source configuration for the configuration model, wherein a number of light source positions with respect to the reference point are determined per object, wherein for each determined light source position: - a light intensity is determined for generating an illumination of the object relating to the scene type, - a light source is determined from the light source collection which light source is suitable for generating the light intensity.

Description

METHOD FOR CONFIGURING LIGHT SOURCES IN A SPACE

The invention relates to a method for configuring light sources in a space, for the purpose of illuminating objects such as a table, a chair, a couch, a cupboard, curtains, a wall on which a painting is hung, a ceiling to which an ornament is arranged, or a floor on which a decoration is arranged, in a space, wherein in this text the object also means items that are present in the space for a relatively short while, such as a book or a newspaper. Configuring light sources in a space takes place daily for instance when a room of a house is decorated or redecorated. Decorating a room is booming due to trends shown in the media.

When decorating a space such as a room in a house or office, or when decorating a retail space, a light source configuration for the purpose of illuminating objects in the space is defining in providing an environment in which a user of the space is able to feel well depending on an activity to be performed by the user, such as reading or watching television. The light source configuration furthermore supports emphasizing a style and atmosphere prevailing in the space. Determining a light source configuration therefore constitutes an important part in the decoration of the space, and is professionally carried out by specialists who have made it their profession to determine light source configurations for spaces in which objects can be placed.

Such a method, wherein an expert places or configures light sources in the space, and wherein a light source configuration is determined, is generally known in the art. The method wherein a light source configuration is determined, however, is highly complex, inconveniently arranged and difficult to carry out, even to an expert, also because it takes a lot of know-how, feeling and empathy for illuminating objects in the space such that at least a desired effect is achievable with the light source configuration.

A drawback of such methods is that for a certain type of style and for a certain scene type, configuring light sources in the space leads to undesired illuminations of objects, like too low a light intensity near an object, such as an easy chair, which object is intended for reading a book, and like too high a light intensity near an object, such as an easy chair from which one watches television.

It is an object of the invention to provide a method that assists in configuring light sources in a space for the purpose of illuminating objects in the space, wherein for a certain type of style and for a certain scene type desired object illuminations are possible. According to a first aspect of the invention a method is provided for composing a light source configuration in a space, for the purpose of illuminating objects in the space comprising steps of:

analysing a configuration model comprising objects and a reference point, in which configuration model object data have been included for each object, such as illumination data, object dimensions, and an object position with respect to the reference point, wherein at least one scene type has been defined for a scene that can be evoked in the space by means of the light source configuration,

analysing a light source collection in which light source data have been included for each light source,

determining the light source configuration for the configuration model, wherein a number of light source positions with respect to the reference point are determined, wherein for each determined light source position a light intensity is determined for generating an illumination of the object relating to the scene type, and a light source is determined from the light source collection which light source is suitable for generating the light intensity, and wherein determining a number of light source positions with respect to the reference point, comprises per object determining a number of light source positions with respect to the reference point, wherein for determining the number of light source positions, a number of light sources is allocated per object. In that way a method becomes available for determining a light source configuration for a space for the purpose of illuminating objects to be situated in the space, wherein for each object, depending on the object, the number of light source positions, and therefore the number of light sources, is determined, wherein object illuminations relating to the type of style and the scene type are possible, as at each determined light source position the light intensity is determined depending on the object, and that at any determined light source position a light source suitable for the illumination of the object is determined from the light source collection.

In one embodiment for each determined light source, control values are determined for generating the light intensity by means of the light source. In that way it becomes possible to adjust a light intensity of the light source determined from the light source collection, such that the light intensity to be generated by the light source can be adjusted to maximum performance relating to the light source, as a result of which object illuminations advantageous to the object can be achieved.

In one embodiment the configuration model comprises a reference plane, and/or determining the number of light source positions comprises determining a light source orientation with respect to the reference point and the reference plane. In that way determining the orientation per light source with respect to the reference point and the reference plane of the configuration model becomes possible, wherein for each light source for instance an angle has been determined with respect to a chosen reference point and reference plane in the space, at which angle a beam of light to be generated by the light source must be directed for an illumination that is advantageous to the object.

In one embodiment a degree of influence per light source included in the light source configuration is determined, wherein the degree of influence is a ratio of a light intensity to be generated by the light source with respect to a light intensity to be generated by the light source configuration on an object illuminated by the light source, wherein the light source configuration is accordingly adjusted if the degree of influence substantially exceeds a predetermined threshold value. In that way it becomes possible to save on using light sources included in the light source configuration as determined at first, which light sources have no or hardly any influence on the type of style and/or scene types to be achieved.

In one embodiment the method comprises a step for creating a graphic representation of the light source configuration, and/or a step for in the graphic representation indicating dimensions of the position and orientation determined per light source with respect to the reference point and/or the reference plane, and/or a step for creating a list of light source properties defined per light source. In that way a graphic representation of the light source configuration becomes possible, such as an assembly drawing, in which the graphic representation is provided with dimensions for disposing the light sources determined according to the light source configuration in the space, and/or in which the graphic representation is provided with a list, such as an itemized list, of light sources that need to be disposed in the space, wherein the list comprises data with light source properties, such as the type and quantity of each type.

In one embodiment the light sources included in the light source configuration are disposed in the space for illuminating objects in the space. In that way the space is decorated using the light source configuration determined according to the invention, wherein each object depending on the scene type can be illuminated with a light intensity that is advantageous to each object.

In one embodiment a control system is adapted for controlling the light intensity of the light sources included in the light source configuration, and/or wherein the light sources included in the light source configuration are included in the control system. In that way a system becomes available for controlling the light intensity of the light source disposed in the space, and/or wherein the control system is programmed such that the light sources disposed in the space become controllable by means of operating the control system. In one embodiment the control system is provided with at least one code relating to a light source disposed in the space, such as an IP address of the light source disposed in the space, wherein a wireless connection is adapted for controlling the light source by means of the control system. In that way wireless operation of a light source disposed in the space by means of the control system becomes possible.

In one embodiment the control system is included in a mobile operation device for operating the light sources. In that way controlling the light intensity of the light sources disposed in the space becomes possible from an operation device that can be moved through at least the space, wherein the light intensity of the light sources disposed in the space can be controlled from at least any position in the space.

In one embodiment a scene type is selected by means of the control system for generating illuminations of the objects relating to the scene type. In that way it becomes possible to control the light intensity of the light sources disposed in the space according to the defined illumination of the objects relating to the scene type, wherein in case of several predetermined scenes it is easy to switch from the one scene to the other.

In one embodiment the operation of the light sources by means of the control system is analysed for determining a degree of frequency with which the control system is operated for adjusting a specific scene, wherein the control values of the light sources included in the light source configuration are adjusted. In this way it becomes possible to analyse a trend in the use of the control system wherein the operation, during using a set scene, and the control values of the light sources determined in the light source configuration, are for instance manually set to one's wishes.

In one embodiment the control system is connected to a computer for analysing the operation of the light sources by means of the control system, and/or wherein the computer provides an output signal to the control system if the degree of frequency, with which the control system is operated for adjusting a certain scene by means of the control values of the light sources determined in the light source configuration, has exceeded a predetermined threshold value, and/or wherein the output signal comprises further control values determined per light source based on the analysed operation.

Thus the computer enables determining a trend deviating from the scene, wherein it is determined whether the degree of frequency exceeds the predetermined threshold value, wherein the computer provides the output signal to the control system for adjusting the light source control values relating to the scene type, wherein per light source the control values determined previously are replaced by further control values based on a history of usage. In one embodiment a sensor is disposed in the space in order to be included in the control system, for measuring light intensity, such that a light intensity near an object can be measured for comparison with the light intensity determined in advance in the configuration model, wherein the light intensity can be adjusted by means of adjusting the control values of the light source intended for illuminating the object. In that way an advantageous illumination for the object becomes possible, by measuring an actual, prevailing light intensity near the object by means of the sensor, to compare with the light intensity determined in advance in the configuration model, for optionally, to one's wishes adjusting the light intensity of the light source intended for illuminating the object.

In one embodiment prior to the step of determining the light source configuration an activity collection is analysed, in which activity collection, position data have been included for each activity, comprising a distance and an orientation of a first object configured in the space with respect to a second object configured in the space, wherein determining the light source configuration for the configuration model, comprises defining a number of activities to be performed in the space, and wherein determining a number of light sources per object comprises determining per object a number of activities from the activity collection, wherein for each determined activity the number of light sources is determined per object. In that way it becomes possible to determine the number of light sources to be included in the light source configuration depending on the activities linked to the objects placed in the space with respect to each other, like a position of a couch with respect to a position of a television defines an activity type such as watching television, and like a position of an easy chair with respect to a position of a window defines a further activity type such as reading a book.

In one embodiment the number of light sources per object is determined by the activity requiring the highest determined number of light sources for that object. In that way it becomes possible to determine a light source from the light source collection for the objects, wherein the light source is suitable for illuminating the object for all determined activities to be performed in the space.

According to an other aspect the invention provides a method for composing a scene configuration in a space, for the purpose of illuminating objects in the space, characterised in that the method comprises steps for:

analysing a configuration model comprising objects and a reference point, in which configuration model object data have been included for each object, such as illumination data, object dimensions and an object position with respect to the reference point, wherein at least one scene type has been defined for a scene to be evoked in the space by means of the light source configuration,

analysing a light source configuration wherein light source details have been included for each light source, such as illumination data, and a light source position with respect to the reference point,

for each light source determining control values for generating the illumination effect relating to the scene type. In that way it becomes possible to determine the control values of the light sources included in the light source

configuration for a given configuration model of objects and for a given light source configuration, in order to achieve an illumination of the objects according to the determined scene type.

The invention will now be described in more detail on the basis of a (few) exemplary embodiment(s) with reference to the figures, in which:

Figure 1 is an object configuration of objects situated in a space wherein for the purpose of illuminating objects in the space, a light source configuration can be determined,

Figure 2 shows a flow chart of a method for composing a light source configuration in a space, such as the space according to figure 1 ;

Figure 3 shows a light source configuration, wherein light sources have been determined according to the method of figure 2 for the object configuration

accommodated in the space according to figure 1 ;

Figure 4 shows a light source configuration according to figure 3 placed in the object configuration or in the configuration model according to figure 1 ;

Figure 5 shows a flow chart of a method for composing a light source configuration and a scene configuration in a space for the purpose of illuminating objects in the space, based on the activities relevant to the space;

Figure 6 shows a flow chart of a method for composing a scene configuration in a space in which a light source configuration is present, wherein for each light source control values are determined.

In all figures identical reference numbers indicate identical parts. Figure 1 shows a zoning of a space 1 , for instance a room 1 , such as a living room, which room 1 is furnished with several objects 2, such as in this example a table 21 , a chair 22, a television 23, a television table 24, a coffee table 25, a couch 26, and a cupboard 27, in this example a book case 27. In this example the space 1 is delimited by space delimitations such as a floor 1 1 , a ceiling 12, a first wall 13 in which a first window 14 is placed, a second wall 1 5 in which a second window 16 is placed having a window partitioning system 161 , 162, in this example curtains 161 , 162 positioned adjacent to the second window 1 6, and a third wall 17 in which a door 18 is disposed. In this text the space delimitations are also referred to as objects 2. In this text the term objects 2 also means those items that may be temporarily present in the space 1 , but that are not shown, such as a book, or a newspaper, or an electronic device for communication and entertainment, such as a laptop or a computer game.

Figure 1 shows an object configuration 3, in which objects 2 mentioned in this example are included, wherein for each object 2 a position and/or orientation with respect to a reference point R and/or a reference plane A has been determined. The objects 2 included in the object configuration 3 are characterised by object data, such as object dimensions and illumination data, which illumination data comprise properties of the objects that are relevant to illumination, such as an angle at which the object 2 preferably is illuminated, such as an angle or orientation in case of a painting, a degree of reflection of the object, colour lustre, dullness, diffusion, transparency, and so on. The object configuration 3 forms a collection of data regarding the objects 2 situated in the space 1 , which collection forms a basis for a configuration model suitable for processing by an application running on a computer for per object determining the object position with respect to the reference point R and/or the reference plane A.

In this text the term "light source" means an element for generating light, which element as a whole is commercially available. The light source may a light bulb or a LED light, wherein the LED light may comprise several LEDs. Alternatively the light source may be elongated, such as a strip-light or a flexible element, such as neon lighting, wherein the elongated element comprises one or more LED lights. In general usage lamp can mean two different types of objects. In its first meaning lamp is a light bulb that can individually be bought in shops and be placed in fittings for electric connection of the lamp to the mains. In its second meaning lamp is an assembly comprising a fitting and a structure for positioning a lamp according to the first meaning, such as a light source or electrical point, wherein the structure for instance comprises a support to place the assembly on a floor or on a wall, and/or wherein the assembly comprises a lampshade for directing a beam of light that can be generated by the light source. In this text lamp according to the first meaning is referred to as "light source", and a lamp according to the second meaning is referred to as "lamp system". According to this definition a lamp system comprises at least one light source, such as, by way of illustration, figure 4 shows a lamp system 40 over the table 21 , comprising three light sources 41 , 42, 43. In this text the first and/or second window 14, 16 can be considered light sources that could optionally be counted part of the light source configuration, for which even a control value can be determined, for instance by at least partly dosing a quantity of light shining through the window, but it will be understood that this form of light source is neither a lamp according to the first meaning nor one according to the second meaning, and does not include a lamp at all.

For decorating the space 1 with lights a method is conceivable in which light sources are placed in the space 1 based on feeding points, such as a socket, present in the space 1 , yet not shown, for instance because of the length of electricity cable that is part of the lamp system. An expert will understand that according to the latter method an illumination of objects 2 can be achieved which in general will not be very coherent.

Figure 2 schematically shows the method 6 for composing a light source configuration 5 in a space 1 shown in figure 3, for illuminating the objects 2 in the space 1 , wherein the light source configuration 5 is determined with respect to the reference point R and/or the reference plane A. The method comprises steps for analysing 100 the configuration model, in figure 2 referred to as ANALYSIS/OBJ, analysing 200 a light source collection, in figure 2 referred to as ANALYSIS/L, and determining 300 the light source configuration 5 for the configuration model, in figure 2 referred to as CONF/L.

In the configuration model to be analysed 100, object data have been included for each object, such as the illumination data, the object dimensions and the object position with respect to the reference point R and/or the reference plane A of the configuration model. In the configuration model furthermore at least one scene type has been determined for a scene to be evoked in the space by means of the light source configuration, wherein a scene is an atmosphere or experience that can be evoked using the light source configuration, and intended to be experienced as agreeable by the user of the space 1 , during an activity of the user attuned to the scene, and which effects a suitable or pleasant sense of well-being. An appealing example of a scene is an aperitif scene, in which a pleasant atmosphere can be evoked using the light source configuration. Another example is a scene in which one watches television, or in which one is having breakfast.

For determining the light source configuration 5, in addition to analysing 1 00 the object configuration 3, analysing 200 a light source collection is required wherein for each light source included in the light source collection, light source data have been included such as maximum capacity, voltage, maximum occurring current, light intensity, light distribution characteristic, colour or colour temperature, dimensions and the like. The light source collection forms a group of light sources from which a choice can be made when determining a light source in the light source configuration 5, and when determining properties of each light source in the light source configuration 5. For determining 300 the light source configuration 5 in figure 2 referred to as CONFIG/L, in addition to analysing 100 the object configuration 3 and analysing 200 a light source collection, a number of light source positions with respect to the reference point R and/or reference plane A are determined 325 per object for the configuration model, in figure 2 referred to as #L/OBJ. In the method for determining the number of light source positions, a number of light sources is allocated per object, for instance depending on the length of the object. Allocating a number of light sources per object 2 is carried out based on the object data relating to the object 2, wherein for each determined light source, a position with respect of the reference point R is determined based on a predetermined distribution relating to the object data.

To obtain and apply such a predetermined distribution of light sources, the object data relating to the object 2 is, per object 2, compared with predetermined object data being relevant for objects to be used in the configuration model, wherein the predetermined object data is indicative for the number of light sources needed to illuminate the object 2, and wherein the predetermined object data is indicative for the position of each light source needed with respect of the object 2. In other words, for determining a light source configuration 5 for the configuration model 3 comprising objects 2 and a reference point R, per object 2 determining a number of light source positions with respect to the reference point is carried out on the basis of predetermined rules being indicative for illuminating the objects. As an example it is considered an object like a show piece on a prominent position in the space, wherein the object is to be lit from for instance 3 predetermined directions. In the configuration model, this object is having object data designating this object as a "show piece to be lit by 3 light sources that are capable to illuminate along different directions". As a result, when it is defined in the configuration model that an object being a show piece is positioned within the space, the method according the invention determines both the number of light sources needed to illuminate the show piece, i.e. in this case 3 light sources, as well as the position of each of these light sources, wherein these positions are determined based on predetermined rules, e.g. having mutual angles of 60 degrees.

As stated above, objects 2 included in the object configuration 3 are

characterised by object data, such as illumination data, object dimensions, and object positions. Objects 2 included in the object configuration 3 may be, in addition, characterised by object data such as object type data. Then, a number of light sources to be determined for the object 2 and the position relating to the light source to be determined for each object 2, may be determined based on an object dimension relating to the object 2, e.g. the length of a table to be used for reading and/or eating according to the scheme below. Based on the object type data relating to the object 2, the object dimension may be compared with predetermined ranges of object dimensions relevant for the object type data. In the scheme below, object types are specified, and per object type, a number of light sources is predetermined per range. If a configuration model comprises a table for reading and eating, having a length of 1 ,8 m is, this object dimension, i.e. the length of 1 ,8m, is compared with predetermined ranges L < 1 ,5; 1 ,5 < L < 2,0; 2,0 < L < 3,0; L > 3,0. For the present table, this scheme determines the number of light sources based on the range 1 ,5 < L < 2,0 and selects 2 light sources for this table. Furthermore, a position with respect to the object 2 is determined for each light source, based on a predetermined distribution relating to the object dimension, in this example at 30% x 1 ,8 = 0,54 m and 70% x 1 ,8 = 1 ,26 m from the starting edge of the table.

Scheme: predetermined rules for light sources depending on object type data

In other words, the number of light source positions for an object is determined on the basis of an object dimension, wherein the object dimension is compared with predetermined ranges of object dimensions, wherein each range of object dimensions is indicative for the number of light source positions.

When a substantially square table is present in the configuration model, for instance one single light source is selected for the single object "square table". When an elongated table 21 is present the longitudinal dimension of which is for instance at least twice as large as a lateral dimension, for instance two, three or four light sources are selected depending on the length of the table 21 relative to the width of the table 21 .

When determining 300 the light source configuration 5, according to the method 6 a light intensity is determined 350 for each determined light source position, in figure 2 referred to as INTENS/L, for generating an illumination of the object 2 relating to the scene type. When the elongated table 21 is present, wherein the table 21 is considered suitable to be used during eating and/or reading, for each light source position determined for the table 21 a light intensity is determined, on the basis of which according to the method 6 a light source 4 is determined 375 from the light source collection which light source is suitable for generating the light intensity, in figure 2 referred to as CHOICE/L. The method 6 described makes determination 300 of a light source configuration 5 for a space 1 possible for illuminating objects 2 to be situated in the space 1 , wherein the object illuminations relating to the type of style and the scene type are possible as at each determined light source position the light intensity is determined 350 depending on the object, and that at each determined light source position a light source is determined 375 from the light source collection, which light source is suitable for the illumination of the object 2.

In an embodiment, the number of light sources determined for the object 2 and the position relating to the light source determined for each object 2, are determined based on object type data relating to the object 2. This can be achieved by determining, dependent on the object type data, a number of further objects 2 that relate to the object 2. For example, if one object is defined by the object type "television", this object refers to for example a television table 24, and a couch 26 from whereupon it is likely to watch television 23. In the object type data for a television, it is predetermined that the object 2, i.e. television 23, and the further objects, i.e. television table 24 and couch 26, form an object group. The object group is featured by object group data, such as object group type and object group dimensions. In this example, the object group type is called "television related objects".

According to the invention, determining the number of light sources comprises per object group determining a number of light sources based on object group data relating to the object group, wherein for each light source determined, the position with respect of the reference point R is determined based on a predetermined distribution relating to the object group data.

To obtain and apply such a predetermined distribution of light sources over a group of objects, the object group data relating to the object group, is per object group, compared with predetermined object group data being relevant for object groups to be used in the configuration model, wherein the predetermined object group data is indicative for the number of light sources needed for the object group, and wherein the predetermined object group data is indicative for the position of each needed light source with respect to the object group.

Depending on the size and composition of the object group, the number of light sources determined for the object group and the position relating to the light source determined for each object group, are determined based on an object group dimension relating to the object group. Analogue to the method above, depending on the object group type relating to the object group, the object group dimension is compared with predetermined ranges of object group dimensions for the object group type, wherein per range a number of light sources is predetermined. Subsequently the number of light sources relating to the relevant range can be selected, and a position with respect to the object group can, for each light source, be determined based on a predetermined distribution relating to the object group dimension. In this way, light sources can be determined in a parametric way in order to obtain a light source configuration for a space in general, for example a living room provided with at least a television, wherein the living room comprises objects relating to watching television. These objects as a group can be relevant for determining a light source configuration, which is composed by a system that is capable of using the configuration model that is suitable for processing by an application running on a computer. By running the configuration model on such a computer, a light source configuration is thus obtained, comprising data like the number of light sources and per light source its position, in this text described by the terms like "light source position", "position relating to the light source", and "position of the light source", having equivalent meanings and which are used interchangeably. The application running on a computer is able to determine the number of light sources being a number in the range of 0, 1 , 2, wherein the number of 0 means that for some object, it is determined there are no circumstances found for illuminating that object by means of a separate light source, which can be the case when the object is lit via distortion of other operable light sources and/or when the object is lit via a window when the object is to be used "at lunch only".

Figure 3 shows a light source configuration 5 composed according to the method 6 according to figure 2, wherein per object 2 the number of light source positions with respect to the reference point R and/or the reference plane A has been determined 325, wherein for each determined light source position a light source has been determined from the light source collection, which light source is suitable for generating the light intensity. For each determined light source 4 control values have been determined 400 for by means of the light source 4 generating the light intensity. When composing the light source configuration 5 for instance a single light source 4 has been determined that is suitable for generating 91 lux, wherein from the light source collection for instance a light source 4 has been chosen that is suitable for generating 100 lux. For attuning the light intensity to be generated by the one light source 4 to the light intensity determined 350 according to the method 6, according to the method 6 a control value for the one light source 4 is determined 400, that in this example adjusts the light intensity to be generated using the one light source 4, to a value of 91 lux, for instance by determining that, for the one light source 4 a control voltage is determined 400 at 91 % of the nominal control voltage.

Figure 3 shows a light source configuration 5 composed according to the method 6 according to figure 2, wherein per object 2 the number of light source positions with respect to the reference point R and/or the reference plane A has been determined 325, wherein for each determined light source 4 a light source orientation with respect to the reference point R and/or the reference plane A has been determined 326, in figure 2 referred to as ORIEN. The light source orientation is of importance to a fitter of the light source configuration 5, as in addition to the position of each light source 4 a direction of the light source 4, or a beam of light determined by the light source 4, defines the illumination of the related object 2, like a light source 4 for illuminating a painting is often directed obliquely with respect to a ceiling 12 or a reference plane A, or at an acute angle to a ceiling 12 or a reference plane A.

The light source configuration 5 composed according to the method 6 according to figure 2 is adapted for per object 2 determining a number of light sources 4, wherein it is possible that for an object 2 a light source 4 has been determined that for instance as regards light intensity hardly contributes significantly to the illumination of the object 2, for instance because near the object 2 a further light source has been determined suitable for generating a much bigger light intensity. For determining light sources 4 determined by means of the method 6 that for instance as regards contribution to the light intensity are unnecessary, and that can therefore be saved on, in addition to the method 6 a degree of influence is determined per light source 4. The degree of influence is determined by a ratio of a light intensity to be generated by the light source 4 with respect to a light intensity on an object 2 to be generated with the light configuration 5 which object is illuminated by means of the light source 4. The light source 4 is included in a further light source configuration that is not shown , in case the degree of influence substantially exceeds a predetermined threshold value. The light source configuration 5 determined by means of the method 6 is based on an input of objects 2 situated in a space, wherein per object 2 the object data, the object dimensions and the object position with respect to the reference point R and/or the reference plane A have been determined, wherein the input comprises entering the configuration model. The light source configuration 5 determined by means of the method 6 can be seen via an output of light sources 4 configured in the space, wherein the output comprises a graphic representation of the light source configuration 5. The graphic representation comprises per light source 4 dimensions for indicating the position and orientation with respect to the reference point R and/or the reference plane A determined per light source 4.

In order to illustrate the dimensions, figure 3 shows distances 41 1 , 412, 413 for indicating light source 41 with respect to the reference point R and/or the reference plane A, distances 421 , 422, 423, for indicating light source 42 with respect to the reference point R and/or the reference plane A, and distances 431 , 432, 433, for indicating light source 43 with respect with respect to the reference point R and/or the reference plane A. In this example the graphic representation includes an assembly drawing, layout drawing or overview drawing of the space with light sources 4 to be placed in the space, and can be used by a fitter, such as a handyman or DIY-enthusiast during mounting the light sources 4 in the space.

Additionally a list has been added comprising all light sources 4 that can be placed in the space, wherein per light source 4 light source properties determined by means of the method 6 have been printed. Such a list can be used as itemized list for the assembly drawing, which itemized list can furthermore be used for, in an actual shop or an online shop, gathering a collection of light sources 4 intended to be mounted in the space.

After mounting the light sources 4 in the space an operation device 7 shown in figure 4 for operating the light sources 4 is placed, wherein the operation device 7 is programmable for operating the light sources 4. The operation device 7 constitutes a control system 70 comprising several light sources 4 disposed in the space, and at least a code relating to the light source 4, such as an IP address of the light source 4 disposed in the space, wherein a wireless connection is adapted for controlling the light source 4 by means of the control system 70. Programming the control system 70 by means of operating the operation device 7 usually is a difficult task that a fitter has to perform in addition to fitting the light sources 4 after mounting the light sources 4 in the space. However, light sources 4 determined by means of the method 6, wherein per light source 4 the position, the light intensity and the control value have been determined, renders the difficult task unnecessary by providing the operation device 7 and/or control system 70 with the control values determined for each light source 4, wherein the operation device 7 is adapted for receiving a signal that is stored on a data carrier that is known per se, such as a USB stick, or of a signal that by means of the method 6 has for instance been determined by the application running on a computer.

The operation device 7 can be mounted in the space, but may alternatively be movable or mobile, so that the light intensity of the light sources disposed in that space can be controlled from at least any position in or near the space.

The operation device 7 is provided with entry elements 71 , such as a button for selecting a pre-programmed operation, such as switching off a selectable light source. In this example the entry elements 71 of the operation device 7 provide a choice of a further pre-programmed operation, such as selecting a scene type, wherein the illuminations of the objects relating to the scene type can be evoked. In that way the light intensity of all light sources 4 disposed in the space can be adjusted quick and easy, by a simple operating action. When programming several predetermined scenes, it is easier to switch from the one scene to the other, wherein individually adjusting the control values per light source 4 becomes unnecessary.

Composing a light source configuration 5 in a space, for the purpose of illuminating objects 2 in the space, usually is more complex when a single light source configuration 5 has to be composed for several scene types desired in the space. In order to illustrate this, it may be desirable to control a light source according to a first scene such that the light source, in its position, supplies a light intensity for reading a book, whereas according to a second scene, the light source has to be controlled such that the light source, in its position, supplies a light intensity for watching television. For that purpose the invention provides an embodiment of the method 6 for composing a light source configuration 5 in a space 1 , for the purpose of illuminating objects 2 in the space 1 , comprising steps for:

- analysing 100 a configuration model comprising objects 2 and a reference point R, in which configuration model object data have been included for each object 2, such as illumination data, object dimensions, and an object position with respect to a reference point R and/or a reference plane A of the configuration model, wherein several scene types have been defined for a scene that can be evoked in the space 1 by means of the light source configuration 5, analysing 200 a light source collection in which light source data have been included for each light source,

determining 300 the light source configuration 5 for the configuration model, wherein a number of light source positions with respect to the reference point R and/or the reference plane A are determined 325 per object 2, wherein for each determined light source position:

a light intensity is determined 350 for generating an illumination of the object 2 relating to the scene type,

a light source 4 is determined 375 from the light source collection which light source is suitable for generating the light intensity.

By means of the operation device 7, after programming, individual operation and/or control of the light sources 4 included in the light source configuration 5 is possible, wherein each light source 4 can be switched individually. The control system 70 allows deviating from the pre-programmed settings, so that an operator of the operation device 7 is able to flexibly, at choice, switch the light sources 4 on or off. A possibility to deviate from the pre-programmed settings gives the operator a sense of autonomy. However, it will become tedious for the operator to perform increasingly complex interventions, such as adjusting the light intensity of several light sources. In a specific case of the method 6 according to the invention the operation of the light sources 4 by means of the control system 70 is analysed for determining a degree of frequency with which the control system 70 is operated by means of the operation device 7 for adjusting a certain scene by means of adjusting the control values of the light sources determined in the light source configuration. In that way it becomes possible to analyse a trend in the use of the control system 70 wherein the operation, during using a set scene, and the control values of the light sources 4 determined in the light source configuration 5 are for instance manually set to one's wishes.

The degree of frequency with which deviations from the pre-programmed settings take place can be locally tallied, such as by means of the operation device 7. Alternatively the control system 70 is connected to a computer for analysing the operation of the light sources 4 by means of the control system 70. The computer can be positioned locally, or remotely, wherein the computer is connected to the control system 70 for instance via the internet. If the degree of frequency, with which the control system 70 is operated for adjusting a certain scene by means of the control values of the light sources 4 determined in the light source configuration 5, has exceeded a predetermined threshold value, the computer provides an output signal to the control system 70 for adjusting the pre-programmed settings. If for instance within a certain period of time, such as one year, a pre-programmed light intensity of a light source 4 is intervened with more often than 25 times, the computer generates an output signal comprising a suggestion for adjusting the pre-programmed settings, wherein at least for the one light source further control values have been determined on the basis of the analysed operation, wherein at least for the one light source the previously determined control values are replaced by the further control values based on the history of usage.

Figure 4 shows a sensor 8 that in this example is disposed at three locations, namely, below the second window 1 6, on a side of the television table 24 facing the couch 26, and on a side of the book case 27 facing the door 1 8. The sensor 8 is adapted for being included in the control system 70, for the purpose of measuring light intensity, such that a light intensity near an object is measurable to be compared with the light intensity included in advance in the configuration model. If the measured light intensity deviates from a light intensity determined when composing the light source configuration 5, the control values of the light source intended for illuminating the object are adjusted such that the measured light intensity corresponds with the light intensity determined when composing the light source configuration 5.

The use of the sensor 8 for adjusting the control values for a determined light source 4 provides a fitter of the light sources 4 with the option of manually adjusting control values determined in advance according to the method 6 that turn out insufficient after fitting, in order to provide a desired light intensity per light source.

Figure 5 shows a further method 60 for composing a light source configuration 5 in a space, for the purpose of illuminating objects 2 in the space, wherein prior to the step of determining 300 the light source configuration 5, an activity collection is analysed 250, in figure 5 referred to by "ANALYSIS/ACT", in which activity collection position data have been included for each activity, comprising a distance and an orientation of a first object configured in the space with respect to a second object configured in the space.

By way of illustration the activity collection comprises an activity of "watching television", wherein values have been included in the activity collection for enabling the activity of "watching television" in the space or not, for which a light source configuration is composed. For instance for the configuration model the activity of "watching television" is possible if a television is present in the object configuration 3, and if a couch 26 is situated within a certain distance interval with respect to the television 23. According to the method 60 it is determined on the basis of the object configuration 3 determined in the configuration model, whether a television 23 is present and whether the couch 26 is situated within the predetermined distance interval. When determining the light source configuration for the configuration model, according to the further method 60 a number of activities to be performed in the space, such as "watching television", "having breakfast", "reading a newspaper" or "using an electronic device, such as a tablet or computer" are determined.

When determining a number of light sources per object, according to the further method 60, per object a number of activities are determined from the activity collection, wherein for each determined activity the number of light sources 4 is determined per object. In that way it becomes possible to determine the number of light sources to be included in the light source configuration 5 depending on the activities coupled to the objects placed relative to each other in the space.

If on the basis of the analysis it is determined that several activities can take place for an object configuration 3 determined for a space, the number of light sources per object is determined by the activity requiring the highest number of light sources 4 for illuminating the object. Subsequently per determined light source 4 a light intensity is determined for generating an illumination of the object 2 relating to the activity type, and a light source 4 is determined from the light source collection that is suitable for generating the light intensity, and per light source 4 the control values are determined for by means of the light source 4 generating the light intensity.

Determining activities possible in the space based on the positions of the objects 2 relative to each other, is also very useful in case of an already determined, or at least generally outlined light source configuration 5 relative to an already determined, or at least generally outlined object configuration 3, wherein the control values of the light sources 4 included in the light source configuration 5 can be attuned to activities determined in the space 1 .

Figure 6 shows a second aspect of the invention regarding a method 9 for composing a scene configuration in a space, for the purpose of illuminating objects in the space. The term scene configuration in this text means a configuration with which the light sources 4 belonging to the light source configuration 5 illuminate objects 2 present in the space 1 according to a specific scene or a scene type. The method 9 for composing the scene configuration comprises steps for:

analysing 100 a configuration model, in figure 6 referred to as

ANALYSIS/OBJ, comprising objects 2 and a reference point R, in which configuration model object data have been included for each object, such as illumination data, object dimensions and an object position with respect to a reference point and reference plane of the configuration model, wherein at least one scene type has been determined for a scene to be evoked in the space by means of the light source configuration, analysing 390 a light source configuration, in figure 6 referred to as ANALYSIS/CONFIG_L, wherein light source data have been included for each light source, such as illumination data, and a light source position with respect to the reference point and the reference plane,

- determining 400 control values for each light source, in figure 6 referred to as CONTR/VAL, for generating the illumination effect relating to the scene type. The method, according to the second aspect of the invention, provides a possibility for determining the control values of the light sources included in the light source configuration for a given configuration model of objects and for a given light source configuration in order to achieve an illumination of the objects according to the specific scene type.

Naturally the invention is not limited to the preferred embodiment described and shown, but extends to any embodiment falling within the scope of protection as defined in the claims and considered in view of the above description and related drawings. For instance the method can be used for rooms of a specific type, such as a bathroom or kitchen, but also for a space in which a lateral delimitation and/or upper delimitation at a greater distance is present, such as in a hallway, or in which a lateral delimitation and/or upper delimitation is missing, such as in an outdoor application, and so various combinations of characteristics for the method are possible which are described in the claims.

Claims

1 . Method (6) for composing a light source configuration (5) in a space (1 ), for the purpose of illuminating objects (2) in the space (1 ) comprising steps of:

analysing (1 00) a configuration model comprising objects (2) and a reference point (R), in which configuration model object data have been included for each object (2), such as illumination data, object dimensions, and an object position with respect to the reference point (R), wherein the configuration model is suitable for processing by an application running on a computer, wherein at least one scene type has been defined for a scene that can be evoked in the space (1 ) by means of the light source configuration (5),

analysing (200) a light source collection in which light source data have been included for each light source,

determining (300) the light source configuration (5) for the configuration model, wherein a number of light source positions with respect to the reference point (R) are determined (325), wherein for each determined light source position:

a light intensity is determined (350) for generating an illumination of the object (2) relating to the scene type,

a light source (4) is determined (375) from the light source collection which light source is suitable for generating the light intensity,

characterized in that

determining (325) a number of light source positions with respect to the reference point (R) comprises per object (2) determining (325) a number of light source positions with respect to the reference point (R), wherein for determining the number of light source positions, a number of light sources is allocated per object.

2. Method (6) according to claim 1 , wherein for each determined light source (4) control values are determined (400) for generating the light intensity by means of the light source (4), and/or wherein the configuration model comprises a reference plane (A), and/or wherein determining (325) the number of light source positions, comprises determining (326) a light source orientation with respect to the reference point (R) and the reference plane (A).

3. Method (6) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a step for creating a graphic representation of the light source configuration (5), and/or a step for in the graphic representation indicating dimensions of the position and orientation determined per light source (4) with respect to the reference point (R) and/or the reference plane (A), and/or a step for creating a list of light source properties defined per light source (4).

4. Method (6) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the light sources (4) included in the light source configuration (5) are disposed in the space (1 ) for illuminating objects (2) in the space.

5. Method (6) according to claim 4, wherein a control system (70) is adapted for controlling the light intensity of the light sources (4) included in the light source configuration (5), and/or wherein the light sources (4) included in the light source configuration (5) are included in the control system (70).

6. Method (6) according to claim 5, wherein the operation of the light sources (4) by means of the control system (70) is analysed for determining a degree of frequency with which the control system (70) is operated for adjusting a specific scene, wherein the control values of the light sources (4) included in the light source configuration (5) are adjusted.

7. Method according to claim 6, wherein the control system (70) is connected to a computer for analysing the operation of the light sources (4) by means of the control system (70), and/or wherein the computer provides an output signal to the control system (70) if the degree of frequency has exceeded a predetermined threshold value, and/or wherein the output signal comprises further control values determined per light source (4) based on the analysed operation.

8. Method (6, 60) according to claim 1 , wherein prior to the step for determining the light source configuration (5) an activity collection is analysed (250), in which activity collection, position data for each activity have been included, comprising a distance and an orientation of a first object (2) configured in the space (1 ) with respect to a second object (2) configured in the space (1 ), wherein

- determining (300) the light source configuration (5) for the configuration model, comprises defining a number of activities to be performed in the space (1 ), and wherein - determining (325) a number of light sources (4) per object (2) comprises determining per object (2) a number of activities from the activity collection, wherein for each determined activity the number of light sources (4) is determined (325) per object (2).

9. Method (6, 60) according to claim 9, wherein the number of light sources (4) per object (2) is determined by the activity requiring the highest determined number of light sources (4) for that object (2).

10. Method according to claim 1 , wherein per object (2) allocating a number of light sources is carried out based on the object data relating to the object (2), wherein for each determined light source, a position with respect of the reference point (R) is determined based on a predetermined distribution relating to the object data.

1 1 . Method according to claim 10, wherein per object (2), the object data relating to the object (2) is compared with predetermined object data being relevant for objects to be used in the configuration model, wherein the predetermined object data is indicative for the number of light sources needed to illuminate the object (2), and wherein the predetermined object data is indicative for the position of each light source needed with respect of the object (2).

12. Method according to claim 10 or 1 1 , wherein the object data relevant for objects (2) to be used in the configuration model comprise, per object (2), object type data, the method comprising steps:

wherein the number of light sources determined for the object (2) and the position relating to the light source determined for each object (2), are determined based on an object dimension relating to the object (2),

wherein based on the object type data relating to the object (2), the object dimension is compared with predetermined ranges of object dimensions relevant for the object type data,

wherein per range, a number of light sources is predetermined,

wherein the number of light sources relating to the relevant range is selected, and

wherein subsequently a position with respect to the object (2) is determined for each light source, based on a predetermined distribution relating to the object dimension.

13. Method according to claim 10 or 1 1 , wherein the number of light sources determined for the object (2) and the position relating to the light source determined for each object (2), are determined based on object type data relating to the object (2), wherein dependent on the object type data, a number of further objects (2) relating to the object (2) is determined,

wherein the object (2) and the further objects (2) forming an object group, wherein the object group is featured by object group data, such as object group type and object group dimensions,

wherein determining the number of light sources comprises per object group determining a number of light sources based on object group data relating to the object group, and

wherein for each light source determined, the position with respect of the reference point (R) is determined based on a predetermined distribution relating to the object group data.

14. Method according to claim 13, wherein, per object group, the object group data relating to the object group is compared with predetermined object group data being relevant for object groups to be used in the configuration model, wherein the predetermined object group data is indicative for the number of light sources needed for the object group, and wherein the predetermined object group data is indicative for the position of each needed light source with respect to the object group.

15. Method according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the number of light sources determined for the object group and the position relating to the light source determined for each object group, are determined based on an object group dimension relating to the object group,

wherein, based on the object group type relating to the object group, the object group dimension is compared with predetermined ranges of object group dimensions for the object group type,

wherein per range a number of light sources is predetermined,

wherein the number of light sources relating to the relevant range is selected, and

wherein subsequently a position with respect to the object group is, for each light source, determined based on a predetermined distribution relating to the object group dimension.