A sunlight ray sensor
By installing dual sunlight PD tubes and light PD tubes in the car dashboard, the problem of insufficient detection accuracy of sunlight and light sensors has been solved, enabling accurate detection of sunlight direction and air conditioning vent adjustment, thus improving user comfort and the intelligence of the air conditioning system.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- JIANGSU RIYING ELECTRONICS
- Filing Date
- 2025-05-16
- Publication Date
- 2026-06-16
AI Technical Summary
Existing sunlight sensors lack sufficient detection accuracy and cannot distinguish between natural light and direct sunlight, resulting in a lack of targeted air conditioning airflow adjustment. Furthermore, their simple structure makes them susceptible to vibration damage.
A sunlight sensor was designed, employing dual sunlight PD tubes and a light PD tube to detect ambient light and sunlight direction respectively. It is installed in the car dashboard with optimized tilt angle, combining mechanical and optical design to enhance detection accuracy and stability.
It enables precise detection of sunlight direction and dynamic adjustment of air conditioning output, improving user comfort and enhancing the intelligence level of the air conditioning system.
Smart Images

Figure CN224365636U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This utility model relates to the field of sensor technology, and in particular to a sunlight sensor. Background Technology
[0002] A sunlight sensor, also known as a daylight sensor or sunbeam sensor, is a sensor that detects the intensity of ambient light. It is commonly used in automotive, building automation, agriculture, and weather stations to monitor and respond to changes in ambient light.
[0003] Sunlight sensors primarily measure light intensity through the photoelectric effect. Internally, they contain a photosensitive element (such as a photodiode, photoresistor, or phototransistor). When light shines on this element, it generates an electrical signal (current or voltage) proportional to the light intensity. The sensor converts the received light signal into an electrical signal, which is then processed and amplified by built-in circuitry to output a signal that is easy to measure and use.
[0004] In cars, sunlight sensors detect ambient light intensity and automatically adjust the air conditioning to ensure a comfortable temperature inside the vehicle, thus improving driving comfort.
[0005] Existing sunlight sensors have the following shortcomings:
[0006] 1) Insufficient detection accuracy: Traditional photosensitive elements can only sense the overall ambient light intensity and cannot distinguish between natural light and direct sunlight, resulting in a lack of targeted air conditioning airflow adjustment and affecting comfort;
[0007] 2) Structural limitations: Traditional sensor housings are simple in design, and the PD tube (photodiode) is installed at a fixed angle, making it difficult to cover a large area in front of the vehicle. In addition, the mechanical strength is insufficient, and long-term use can easily lead to component displacement or poor contact due to vibration. Utility Model Content
[0008] The technical problem to be solved by this utility model is to provide a sunlight sensor in order to solve the problems existing in the prior art mentioned above.
[0009] The technical solution adopted by this utility model to solve its technical problem is: a sunlight sensor for installation in the middle of a car dashboard, including an upper cover and a lower cover, the upper cover and the lower cover being fastened together to form a mounting cavity, a PCBA board being installed in the mounting cavity, the PCBA board being installed on the lower cover, a sunlight PD base being installed in the middle of the PCBA board, a light PD tube being installed on one side of the sunlight PD base, and several pins being provided on the other side of the sunlight PD base, the pins extending into the lower cover, and a sunlight PD tube being installed on the sunlight PD base at an angle.
[0010] Furthermore, the cross-sectional shape of the Sunshine PD base is fan-shaped. The Sunshine PD base has a hollow structure. One side of the Sunshine PD base is an arc-shaped part, and the other side is a bent part. The two ends of the arc-shaped part and the two ends of the bent part are connected by a beveled part. Each beveled part is provided with a slot, and the bottom surface of the slot is a bottom surface that slopes down from top to bottom.
[0011] The number of solar PD tubes is two, the inclination angle α between the side of the solar PD tube and the horizontal plane is 60° to 85°, and the inclination angle β between the side of the solar PD tube and the vertical plane is 6° to 15°.
[0012] The light PD tube is located on the left side of the arc-shaped section, with the concave arc surface of the arc-shaped section facing the light PD tube.
[0013] Furthermore, mounting holes for installing solar PD tubes are opened on the surface of the PCBA board.
[0014] The further lower cover includes a disc portion, a middle portion, and a lower portion. The disc portion mates with the upper cover. The top surface of the disc portion is provided with several positioning posts, and the PCBA board is installed through the positioning posts.
[0015] The disc has symmetrical notches along its edge, and each notch has a limiting plate on both sides along the vertical direction. The notch and the limiting plate form a limiting slot. The lower cover has a latch on its side, which is located inside the limiting slot.
[0016] Furthermore, both sides of the middle of the lower cover are provided with upward-extending buckle arms, and the buckle arms and the limiting slots are not on the same side.
[0017] Furthermore, a first slot is provided on the inner surface of one side of the lower cover, and a second slot is provided on the inner surface of one side of the lower cover, with the first slot and the second slot being spaced out of each other.
[0018] The lower part of the other side of the cover is shaped like a rectangular wave, and a through hole is opened on the plate surface of this side.
[0019] Furthermore, the top surface of the upper cover is dome-shaped, and the bottom surface of the upper cover has a lug that engages with the latch in the lower cover.
[0020] Furthermore, the number of pins is 6.
[0021] The beneficial effects of this utility model are:
[0022] 1) This utility model provides precise detection. The dual sunlight PD tube and the light PD tube detect the direction of ambient light and sunlight respectively, and dynamically adjust the air conditioner's air output to improve user comfort.
[0023] 2) Dual-sunlight PD tubes can acquire the intensity of sunlight from the left and right sides in front of the vehicle over a wider range; the sensor, through the synergy of optical and mechanical design, significantly improves the intelligence level of the vehicle's air conditioning system and the user experience. Attached Figure Description
[0024] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.
[0025] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of this utility model;
[0026] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of this utility model after the top cover is opened;
[0027] Figure 3 This is an exploded view of this utility model;
[0028] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the solar PD base of this utility model;
[0029] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the solar PD tube of this utility model;
[0030] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the lower cover of this utility model;
[0031] Figure 7 This is a structural schematic diagram of the lower cover of this utility model from another direction;
[0032] Figure 8 This is a bottom view of the lower cover of this utility model;
[0033] Figure 9 This is a block diagram of the sunlight sensor system of this utility model;
[0034] In the diagram: 1. Top cover, 2. Bottom cover, 3. PCBA board, 4. Light PD tube, 5. Sunlight PD base, 51. Arc-shaped part, 52. Bending part, 53. Angled part, 54. Slot, 6. Sunlight PD tube, 7. Pin, 8. Mounting hole, 9. Tongue, 10. Lug, 11. Snap arm, 12. First slot, 13. Second slot, 14. Through hole, 15. Positioning post. Detailed Implementation
[0035] The present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. These drawings are simplified schematic diagrams, illustrating only the basic structure of the present invention, and therefore only show the components relevant to the present invention.
[0036] like Figures 1-9The diagram shows a sunlight sensor for installation in the center of a car dashboard. It includes an upper cover 1 and a lower cover 2, which are fastened together to form a sensor housing, providing a sealed protection to prevent dust and moisture from entering. After fastening, a mounting cavity is formed, in which a PCBA board 3 is installed. The PCBA board 3 serves as the core circuit carrier, integrating a signal processing chip to convert the light signal received by the PD tube (photodiode) into an electrical signal. The PCBA board 3 is mounted on the lower cover 2. A sunlight PD base 5 is installed in the middle of the PCBA board 3. A light PD tube 4 is installed on one side of the sunlight PD base 5. The light PD tube 4 is a full-spectrum photodiode, and its output can be adjusted according to requirements. Several pins 7 are provided on the other side of the sunlight PD base 5, and the pins 7 extend into the lower cover 2. A sunlight PD tube 6 is installed on the sunlight PD base 5 at an angle.
[0037] The light-emitting PD tube 4 and the sunlight PD tube 6 are photosensitive elements that can output corresponding current values under different lighting conditions. The light-emitting PD tube 4 uses a full-spectrum photodiode and can adjust different outputs as needed, while the sunlight PD tube 6 uses two full-spectrum photodiodes.
[0038] like Figure 4 As shown, the cross-sectional shape of the Sunshine PD base 5 is fan-shaped. The Sunshine PD base 5 has a hollow structure, which optimizes the space layout, adapts to the installation environment of the car dashboard, and reduces weight. One side of the Sunshine PD base 5 is an arc-shaped part 51, and the other side is a bent part 52. The two ends of the arc-shaped part 51 and the two ends of the bent part 52 are connected by a beveled part 53. Each beveled part 53 is provided with a slot 54, and the bottom surface of the slot 54 is a bottom surface that slopes from top to bottom.
[0039] like Figures 3-5 As shown, there are two solar PD tubes 6. The tilt angle α between the side of the solar PD tube 6 and the horizontal plane is 60° to 85°, and the tilt angle β between the side of the solar PD tube 6 and the vertical plane is 6° to 15°. This allows for the capture of the direction and intensity of sunlight incident from multiple angles, enabling the acquisition of sunlight intensity from the left and right sides in front of the vehicle over a wider range.
[0040] The light PD tube 4 is located on the left side of the arc-shaped part 51, and the concave arc surface of the arc-shaped part 51 faces the light PD tube 4 to concentrate the reflected light to enhance signal capture.
[0041] The PCBA board 3 has mounting holes 8 on its surface for mounting the Sunshine PD tube 6. The bent Sunshine PD tube 6 pins are installed in the mounting holes 8.
[0042] like Figures 6-8As shown, the lower cover 2 includes a disc portion, a middle portion and a lower portion. The disc portion cooperates with the upper cover 1. The top surface of the disc portion is provided with several positioning posts 15. The PCBA board 3 is installed through the positioning posts 15 to prevent assembly offset from affecting the detection accuracy.
[0043] The edge of the disc is provided with symmetrical notches, and each notch is provided with a limiting plate on both sides in the vertical direction. A limiting slot is formed between the notch and the limiting plate. A latch 9 is provided on the side of the lower cover 2, and the latch 9 is located in the limiting slot.
[0044] like Figure 3 As shown, the top surface of the upper cover 1 is a dome, which optimizes light transmittance, reduces optical distortion, and ensures the accuracy of sunlight incident angle detection. The bottom surface of the upper cover 1 is provided with a lug 10 that cooperates with the latch 9 in the lower cover 2. The upper and lower covers are locked together by fastening to ensure structural stability.
[0045] like Figure 1 As shown, both sides of the middle part of the lower cover 2 are provided with upwardly extending buckle arms 11, and the buckle arms 11 and the limiting slot are not on the same side.
[0046] like Figures 7-8 As shown, a first slot 12 is provided on the inner surface of one side of the lower part of the lower cover 2, and a second slot 13 is provided on the inner surface of one side of the lower part of the lower cover 2. The first slot 12 and the second slot 13 are spatially offset.
[0047] The lower part of the other side of the cover 2 is shaped like a rectangular wave, and a through hole 14 is provided on the plate surface of this side.
[0048] like Figure 2 As shown, there are 6 pins (PIN 7). Pins 7 transmit electrical signals to the vehicle control system (such as the air conditioning ECU) to achieve data interaction. Figure 8 As shown, from top to bottom, they are:
[0049] PHOTO SNSR_PASS_OUT (output signal pin of photoelectric sensor): used to transmit the light intensity information detected by the sensor to other control units or systems to achieve functions such as automatic air conditioning system adjustment;
[0050] PHOTO SNSR_(+5V)_IN (+5V power input pin of the photoelectric sensor): This is the power supply voltage required for the sensor to operate normally.
[0051] PHOTO SNSR_DRV_OUT (Drive signal output pin of photoelectric sensor): Used to drive other components or circuits related to the sensor to realize the function of the sensor;
[0052] A / LIGHT SNSR_SIG_OUT (Output signal pin of automatic headlight sensor): Used to transmit the detected ambient light intensity information to the vehicle's electronic control unit (ECU) so that the vehicle's air conditioning system can be automatically adjusted;
[0053] A / LIGHT SNSR_(+5V)_IN (+5V power input pin for automatic light sensor): Provides the power supply voltage required for the sensor to operate normally;
[0054] A / LIGHT SNSR_GND_IN (ground input pin for automatic light sensor): Used to provide a stable ground reference for the sensor, ensuring normal operation of the sensor and accurate signal transmission.
[0055] Working principle:
[0056] The sunlight PD tube 6 is used to detect the intensity of solar irradiance (mainly near-infrared light). Sunlight shines through the top cover 1 onto the sunlight PD tube 6, at which point the photosensitive element converts the light signal into an electrical signal and outputs the electrical signal to the in-vehicle data acquisition unit for air conditioning control. The product adopts dual-drive sunlight output, with two sunlight PD tubes 6 installed at a special angle to capture the intensity of sunlight from the left and right sides in front of the vehicle over a wider range.
[0057] The light PD tube 4 is used to detect the brightness of the light in front of the vehicle, and then feeds it back to the BCM to adjust the headlights. Its working principle is that when light of 450nm-1100nm passes through the upper cover 1, the light PD tube 4 converts the corresponding light signal into an electrical signal. Since the output current of the light PD tube is small, it needs to be amplified by the operational amplifier circuit to output the corresponding voltage signal at different brightness levels.
[0058] Installation steps:
[0059] Step 1: The lower cover 1 and the pin 7 are integrally molded;
[0060] Step 2: Assemble the solar PD tube base 5 with the PCBA board 3, and heat-melt it with the positioning post 15 for later use;
[0061] Step 3: Bend the 6 pins of the sunlight PD tube;
[0062] Step 4: Install the Sunshine PD tube 6 onto the Sunshine PD base 5 and solder it for later use;
[0063] Step 5: The Sunshine PD tube 6 and Sunshine PD base 5 are soldered to the PCBA board 3 using a pin-type connection;
[0064] Step 6: The PCBA assembly and the positioning post of the sunlight sensor base undergo a hot-melt process;
[0065] Step 7: Solder PCBA board 3 to bottom cover 2 and PIN 7;
[0066] Step 8: Install the top and bottom covers.
[0067] Based on the above-described preferred embodiments of this utility model, and through the foregoing description, those skilled in the art can make various changes and modifications without departing from the technical concept of this utility model. The technical scope of this utility model is not limited to the contents of the specification, but must be determined according to the scope of the claims.
Claims
1. A sunlight sensor for installation in the center of a car dashboard, characterized in that: Includes an upper cover (1) and a lower cover (2). The upper cover (1) and the lower cover (2) are fastened together to form an installation cavity. A PCBA board (3) is installed in the installation cavity. The PCBA board (3) is installed on the lower cover (2). A solar PD base (5) is installed in the middle of the PCBA board (3). A light PD tube (4) is installed on one side of the solar PD base (5). Several pins (7) are provided on the other side of the solar PD base (5). The pins (7) extend into the lower cover (2). A solar PD tube (6) is installed on the solar PD base (5) at an angle.
2. A sunlight sensor according to claim 1, characterized in that: The cross-sectional shape of the solar PD base (5) is fan-shaped. The solar PD base (5) is a hollow structure. One side of the solar PD base (5) is an arc-shaped part (51) and the other side is a bent part (52). The two ends of the arc-shaped part (51) and the two ends of the bent part (52) are connected by a beveled part (53). Each beveled part (53) is provided with a slot (54). The bottom surface of the slot (54) is a bottom surface that slopes from top to bottom.
3. A sunlight sensor according to claim 2, characterized in that: The number of solar PD tubes (6) is 2. The inclination angle α between the side of the solar PD tube (6) and the horizontal plane is 60° to 85°, and the inclination angle β between the side of the solar PD tube (6) and the vertical plane is 6° to 15°.
4. A sunlight sensor according to claim 2, characterized in that: The light PD tube (4) is located on the left side of the arc-shaped part (51), and the concave arc surface of the arc-shaped part (51) faces the light PD tube (4).
5. A sunlight sensor according to claim 1, characterized in that: The PCBA board (3) has mounting holes (8) on its surface for mounting solar PD tubes (6).
6. A sunlight sensor according to claim 1, characterized in that: The lower cover (2) includes a disc part, a middle part and a lower part. The disc part cooperates with the upper cover (1). The top surface of the disc part is provided with a plurality of positioning posts (15). The PCBA board (3) is installed through the positioning posts (15). The edge of the disc is provided with symmetrical notches, and each notch is provided with a limiting plate on both sides in the vertical direction. A limiting slot is formed between the notch and the limiting plate. A latch (9) is provided on the side of the lower cover (2), and the latch (9) is located inside the limiting slot.
7. A sunlight sensor according to claim 6, characterized in that: The lower cover (2) has upwardly extending buckle arms (11) on both sides of the middle part, and the buckle arms (11) and the limiting slot are not on the same side.
8. A sunlight sensor according to claim 6, characterized in that: The lower cover (2) has a first slot (12) on the inner surface of one side of the lower part and a second slot (13) on the inner surface of one side of the lower part. The first slot (12) and the second slot (13) are spatially offset. The lower part of the other side of the cover (2) is shaped like a rectangular wave, and a through hole (14) is provided on the plate surface of this side.
9. A sunlight sensor according to claim 1, characterized in that: The top surface of the upper cover (1) is a dome, and the bottom surface of the upper cover (1) is provided with a lug (10) that cooperates with the latch (9) in the lower cover (2).
10. A sunlight sensor according to claim 1, characterized in that: The number of PINs (7) is 6.