Ai-managed street lighting control system using pulse transmission through voltage modulation

Abstract

The present invention relates to an intelligent street lighting control system utilizing a pulse transmission method via voltage switching to optimize energy consumption. The system comprises a main electronic board at the power supply ' s origin, individual electronic boards on each lamp, a memory unit, a voltage switch calculation receiver, a dip switch, and an AT module. The main board manages power based on operator commands or pre-programmed schedules. Each lamp ' s board calculates voltage pulse count s to determine it s operational status, preventing unintended switching during transmission. Collected data is processed by AT modules, including storage, decision-making, and error control unit s. Additionally, the system can integrate into an 8-block Spider AT system for enhanced functionality, including supply chain monitoring, regional power station supervision, and real-time city-wide analysis.

Description

AI-Managed Street Lighting Control System Using Pulse Transmission through Voltage Modulation

[0001] Methods for reducing energy consumption in street lighting systems are crucial for both cost-saving and environmental sustainability. Traditionally, the options for achieving these goals have been limited to either alternating the operation of streetlights or reducing their brightness. However, the currently available devices on the market that utilize methods such as sending radio signals, telecommunications, or using control lines have numerous drawbacks.

[0002] One of the main issues with these existing technologies is the complexity they introduce into the system. Managing a network of streetlights that rely on various communication methods can be cumbersome and prone to operational issues. Additionally, the high costs associated with implementing and maintaining such technologies have made many power distribution companies and municipalities hesitant to adopt them.

[0003] The new invention offers a simpler and more efficient solution to this problem. By transmitting a pulse using voltage switching, the system eliminates the need for complicated communication protocols. By using a simple yet effective method of communication, this invention has the potential to revolutionize the way streetlights are managed and contribute to a more sustainable future.

[0004] H02B 7 / 06 – H05B 37 / 02

[0005] CN103517494

[0006] INTELLIGENT LIGHTING SYSTEM

[0007] The invention discloses an intelligent lighting system in the field of lighting systems. The intelligent lighting system comprises a main control module; a signal input end of the main control module is respectively connected with a signal input end of a data acquisition module, a signal input end of an optical control module and a signal input end of a remote control module; and a signal output end of the main control module is respectively connected with a signal input end of a display module, a signal input end of an over-charging module and a signal input end of an over-discharging module. A storage battery is protected by arranging the over-charging module and the over-discharging module so as to enable the lighting system to have the advantages of stable performance, high real-time performance, energy saving, high degree of automation and longer service life. The intelligent lighting system can be used for street lamp management.

[0008] The mentioned invention shares a similar aim and function with our claimed system, in that they both provide more efficient mechanisms for street light management. However, they use different componenets and methods, for instance, unlike our patent, this one does not involve an AI module or the installation of a programmable dip switch.

[0009] IN202211033516

[0010] A MORE ADVANCED AND INTELLIGENT APPROACH FOR STREET LIGHTNING SYSTEM USING IOT

[0011] Automation, cost effectiveness, and power consumption are the three most important factors in today's field technology. With the use of intelligent or smart technologies, automation is employed to eliminate manual power. Energy conservation has always been a priority, as energy sources are diminishing for a variety of reasons. Because we all know that power usage is increasing by the day, we are now deploying IoT devices to combat these repercussions. This idea suggests a method for altering typical street light lighting using smart sensors while consuming less electricity. When a person or object is identified, all surrounding street lights turn on to their brightest setting; otherwise, they remain in the dim setting. LED lights must be used since they outperform traditional bulbs in every manner. Heat, energy consumption, replacement costs, maintenance, and carbon dioxide emissions will all be reduced as a result of this. Massive power savings are expected when combined with SSSLS (Solar Smart Street Light System). In addition, utilising the internet of things, an installation with a real-time proto type model with prices and installation procedure has been established to display real-time updates of smart street processing and informing changes and errors that occur.

[0012] The mentioned invention has certain elements in common with our claimed one, in that they both feature a cost-effective solution for smart street lighting systems. But they utilize completely different methods and mechanisms for example, this one relies on real-time data acquisition and is IOT based while ours benefits from programmable microcontrollers and artificial intelligence modules.

[0013] IN202311018481

[0014] MONITORING STREET LIGHT SYSTEM USING ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

[0015] The street lighting system, as one of the prominent services used incities, plays a fundamental role in reducing accidents at night and improvingindividual as well as social security. Therefore, one of the main priorities of electric utility companies is the timely repair and maintenance of street lighting, which must be regularly checked. Routine mechanized monitoring of public lighting is based on measuring the current consumed by each lamp and comparing it with the rated current of the lamp. Moreover, problem occurs due to manual control can also be eliminated. This invention provides the best solutions for reducing energy consumption using artificial intelligence. The system detects vehicle movement / presence of people on the highway, turning ON when any vehicle occurs. This is done by processing an image of an approaching object and then sending a control message to the street lightunit. With this system the performance and life of the lamps will be increased.

[0016] This mentioned invention also relates to efficient management of street lighting systems. While this one focuses on maintenance and object detection control units, our claimed one relies on electronic boards and codes for determining the lamps operating status.

[0017] CN113573447

[0018] INTELLIGENT CONTROL METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR SMART CITY LIGHTING STREET LAMPS BASED ON ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

[0019] The invention relates to an intelligent control method and system for smart city lighting street lamps based on artificial intelligence, and belongs to the technical field of intelligent control for street lamps. The method comprises the steps of obtaining a street lamp area image, and dividing the street lamp area image to obtain a bright area and a dark area; judging whether pedestrians exist in the bright area and the dark area or not, and if so, judging brightness adaptation parameters of the pedestrians to the dark area or the bright area; calculating a street lamp brightness adjustment value adapted to each pedestrian according to the brightness adaptation parameter corresponding to each pedestrian; and solving a mean value of the street lamp brightness adjustment values adapted to the pedestrians, and adjusting the brightness of the street lamps according to the mean value. When the street lamp is controlled, the brightness adaptation parameter of the pedestrian to the dark area or the bright area of the street lamp is considered, the adaptability of the eyes of the pedestrian to the brightness of the street lamp is improved, and then the experience good sensitivity of the pedestrian to the street lamp is improved.

[0020] This mentioned system is similar to our claimed on because they both rely on artificial intelligence to provide a solution for smart street light management. While they have some qualities in common when it comes to overall function, they use different mechanisms. For instance, this one uses brightness detection but ours utilizes a voltage switch calculation receiver and a coded dip switch module.

[0021] CN113473682

[0022] SMART CITY LIGHTING STREET LAMP ADJUSTING METHOD AND SYSTEM BASED ON ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

[0023] The invention relates to a smart city lighting street lamp adjusting method and system based on artificial intelligence, and belongs to the technical field of street lamp intelligent control. The method comprises the following steps: acquiring a road surface area image, and extracting a street lamp irradiation area from the road surface area image; judging whether pedestrians exist in the street lamp irradiation area, and if yes, judging the head orientation of the pedestrians according to the head shadow features corresponding to the pedestrians; obtaining an expected street lamp irradiation center point according to the head orientation of the pedestrian and the current position of the pedestrian; and adjusting the street lamp irradiation area according to the expected street lamp irradiation center point. The illumination area of the street lamp is adjusted according to the head orientation of the pedestrian, the illumination area of the street lamp is adjusted towards the attention direction of the pedestrian, the illumination requirement of the pedestrian for the attention direction can be met, the problem that the illumination effect of an existing road with a small number of street lamps is poor is solved, and the travel safety of the pedestrian is improved.

[0024] This invention bears a resemblance to our claimed system for they both provide AI modified solutions for better street lighting adjustment methods. However, this patent, unlike ours uses image processing to adjust the illumination of the lights, whereas ours utilizes programmable electronic boards and voltage switch calculation to provide three modes of operation.

[0025] This invention involves a street lighting control system wherein a pulse is transmitted using voltage switching. The pulse receiver electronic board, installed at each light, calculates the number of voltage switches within a defined period and then determines the operational status. This innovative technology allows for efficient and intelligent control of light brightness without the need for manual adjustments.

[0026] Each electronic board is equipped with a specific code that is set with a dip switch during installation on the lights. This code allows the board to communicate with the central control system and receive commands for switching or adjusting the light brightness. By effectively managing the voltage switches, the electronic board ensures that the lights operate at the desired level of brightness, enhancing visibility and energy efficiency.

[0027] Furthermore, the intelligent control system implemented in this invention allows for seamless integration with other smart technologies, enabling automated scheduling, remote monitoring, and energy-saving features. With its user-friendly interface and advanced functionalities, this system provides a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution for managing lighting in various settings.

[0028] Due to the significant share of energy consumption in street lighting and the critical importance of this sector in urban management, various strategies have been developed to control and optimize street lighting. However, the complexity and high cost of these systems have led to a lack of widespread adoption. To reduce energy consumption in street lighting systems, two common methods are used: alternating the operation of streetlights, also known as dimming, and reducing the brightness of the lights, referred to as energy-saving. Dimming involves turning off every other streetlight in a pattern, whereas energy-saving focuses on reducing the light intensity. Due to the type of lighting fixtures and the inability to reduce brightness in most of them, power distribution companies typically use the dimming method. Considering the existing lighting control devices, their implementation costs, and operational challenges, most distribution companies use the traditional method of alternating streetlights. In this approach, during peak load periods, executive teams manually disconnect every other light using lift equipment. At the end of the peak period, the teams must manually reconnect the lights, which is both labor-intensive and time-consuming. By integrating advanced lighting control technologies, cities can better manage energy resources and enhance overall urban infrastructure efficiency.

[0029] The purpose of this invention is to introduce a novel method of pulse transmission through voltage switching to manage street lighting systems in an entirely automatic way. This innovative approach is designed to overcome the limitations and challenges of traditional street lighting control methods by offering a more efficient and cost-effective solution. The innovation aims to improve the efficiency of street lighting systems by automating their control. This approach utilizes technology to streamline the control process, reduce operational expenses, and enhance overall performance. It minimizes manual intervention, making it a more dependable and adaptable solution for contemporary urban environments. Enhanced urban management through automated lighting systems can significantly contribute to smarter, more sustainable city planning and development.Solution of Problem

[0030] One method of reducing energy consumption in street lighting systems is to alternate the lights being turned on and off (light adjustment), which currently, due to the high cost and complexity of street lighting devices, is mostly done in a completely traditional and manual way. Existing devices on the market use methods such as radio signals, telecommunications, or control lines. This results in complexity, operational challenges, and high costs, which makes most electricity distribution companies reluctant to adopt this technology. In this invention, an effort has been made to design a system with minimal complexity and cost, that allows lights to be turned off or their brightness reduced during peak hours or when traffic decreases.

[0031] In, you can see a sample single-line diagram of an overhead low-voltage network that includes multiple lights. These networks are extensive and consist of three conductors: phase, neutral, and street lighting, and they have been established throughout the entire city. The supply of electricity to all consumers and street lighting is provided through these networks.

[0032] Before describing the proposed system, we will explain the signal or pulse transmission method. In this proposed method, switching on and off voltage is used to send a pulse. It should be noted that the basis of the work of the early telegraph devices is also based on the same principle, and the message is sent by connecting and disconnecting the voltage on the transmitter side and checking its effects (being connected and disconnected) on the receiver side. To implement the proposed method, two electronic boards are required. The first device (pulse transmitter) is placed in the distribution panel at the beginning of the light power supply, and the second device (pulse receiver) is made according to the number of lights and installed at each light location.

[0033] The electronic board of the receiver, which is installed at the location of each lamp, also calculated the number of voltage interruptions and connections in the defined period and received the working status. Therefore, each electronic board will connect and disconnect the output relay according to the code specified on the board, which is specified by the dip switch and at the time of installing the board on the lights.

[0034] The signal transmitter electronic board, based on instructions received from the operator (via GSM) or the program stored in the microcontroller's memory, connects and disconnects the phase voltage in the lighting system according to a defined schedule. For example, it turns the power supply voltage on and off twice in 10 seconds. The receiver electronic board, installed at each light, also calculates the number of voltage switches within the defined time frame and then determines the operational status. Thus, each electronic board then switches the output relay on or off according to the specific code set on the board using a dip switch during installation on the lights.

[0035] For example, assume that three operational modes are defined according to [Table 1]. The first mode is the normal, standard mode, and the transmitter board does not apply any voltage cut-off, and all lights will remain on. The second mode is the light adjustment mode (alternating lights off), and the transmitter board only applies voltage once during the first 10 seconds. In this mode, only the lights with electronic boards set to code (1xxx) will remain on, and the rest will be turned off. The third mode is the dimming mode, and the transmitter board applies voltage twice during the first 10 seconds, and only in the lights with electronic boards set to code (x1xx), the second relay (The power mode of half the LEDs) is activated. The type of pulses used to determine the system's operational mode is illustrated in [Pic. 5]. It should be noted that it is possible to expand the operational programs and create various modes, and the mentioned modes are provided only as examples. For instance, it is possible to add operational modes such as light adjustment with dimming, receiving commands from various sensors, and more.

[0036] Since pulse generation in this system is done only by switching the voltage on and off, the microcontrollers on the electronic boards installed in the lights are programmed not to issue any commands during the first few seconds after the initial voltage is switched on, to prevent the lights from repeatedly turning on and off during the pulse transmission process. After this initial period, the microcontrollers will determine the operational mode based on the number of voltage switches, and then issue the appropriate commands to turn the lights on or off. The voltage switching is not directly applied to the lights; instead, the electronic board acts as an intermediary between the power grid and the lights.

[0037] In [Pic. 3], the schematic of the signal transmitter board is demonstrated. This board includes a GSM sim800c module with a VRF antenna, a relay output, an ARM microcontroller with an STM32F030 chip, a 2x16 character display, a pulse volume for setting parameters, an analog input, a 5-amp current CT, and is powered by an adapter. In [Pic. 1], the design of the electronic board is shown. In addition to the mentioned features, this board can also measure the lighting system's current consumption, send current consumption data to the control center, change the system's operational mode based on current consumption, connect to traffic control sensors, and more. This board has all the features of an astronomical clock (to provide accurate lighting on / off times throughout the year based on geographic coordinates). By using this system, there is no need to install an astronomical clock in the panels, which results in cost savings.

[0038] In [Pic. 4], the schematic of the receiver board (installed on the lights) is illustrated. This board includes a digital input for detecting power on / off, two relay outputs, an ARM microcontroller with an STM32F030 chip, and a 4-position dip switch for command settings. [Pic. 3] shows the design of the electronic board. This board includes two relays, and the number of relays can be increased according to the customer’s order. When installing the board on the lights, the dip switch must be adjusted based on the type and location of the lights to ensure appropriate operation in different modes. For example, lights located at busy intersections should never be turned off during the command to adjust the lights' operational mode, so the dip switch is set to the "1xxx" position to ensure these lights always remain on. For LED lights with dual inputs (designed to reduce brightness), the dip switch should be set to the "x1xx" position to activate the second relay during the dimming mode. As mentioned before, the definition of various operational modes, dip switch codes, initial delay time, and other settings can be customized according to customer requirements.

[0039] the third block will be responsible for error control, which can detect all types of errors according to The first two blocks detect and notify any type of failure or problem in the main light lines as soon as possible, or sometimes with the help of the second block automatically to fix errors such as sensors or reduce the pressure of the supply and distribution line or from If the light bulb fails, take action and increase the notification to fix the failure.

[0040] In this setup, all the collected data is sent to three AI blocks that control the entire street lighting network. The first block is responsible for gathering daily and hourly street lighting data. The second block, or the decision-making block, uses the algorithm formed in the first block to completely shut down the line from the circuit when no traffic is detected, until the sensors issue a command, or at that particular time, even without sensor detection, the decision-making block can control the line and activate portions of the network with varying capacities based on predefined algorithms. Additionally, according to the network consumption measurement circuit and its definition in the AI, the decision-making block can reduce pressure on the distribution line without disrupting street or pathway lighting, thereby prolonging the lifespan of the meter, detection, and consumption equipment. The third block is responsible for error management. It can detect various faults based on the first two blocks and quickly report any issues or breakdowns in large lighting networks. In some cases, with the help of the second block, it can automatically resolve errors, such as sensor malfunctions, reducing pressure on the power supply and distribution line, or addressing lighting failures, thus enhancing the process of fault notification and resolution.

[0041] This spider artificial intelligence will have 8 blocks in addition to the 3 primary blocks. Block 4 will control supply chain data, Block 5 will monitor regional power stations, and Block 6 can control all types of sensors and city lights other than road and street lighting into two categories, essential and non-essential. The 7th will perform regional and urban momentary analysis and store it in the first block, and the eighth block will be responsible for effective communication between the blocks.

[0042] By equipping different lighting lines and regions, all of these lines can be connected to an 8-block AI Spider, which can even control and manage the complete lighting of a city and provide real-time reports on every point or light post to the operator. In this way, a command center with three operators can handle the work of more than 300 controllers and regulators of lighting lines. This AI Spider will have 8 blocks, in addition to the initial three blocks. Block 4 will control the supply chain data, Block 5 will monitor regional power substations, and Block 6 will manage various sensors and city lights other than the street and pathway lighting, categorizing them into essential and non-essential. Block 7 will conduct real-time regional and city analysis and store it in Block 1, and Block 8 will be responsible for effective communication between the blocks.

[0043] Due to the pulse-based design of the network, the possibility of damage or uncontrollable errors when using AI is nearly eliminated. At any moment during decision-making, the AI can be taken out without significant costs and returned by human labor during repairs or changes. Therefore, this system can reduce energy consumption for street lighting by at least 50%, allowing this energy to be used or stored for other purposes.Advantage Effects of the Invention

[0044] • Complete urban control over public and street lighting to prevent any incidents

[0045] • Reduction of street and city lighting electricity consumption by more than 50%

[0046] • No need for radio or telecommunication signal transmission

[0047] • No use of a separate control line

[0048] • Simplicity in pulse transmission

[0049] • Reduced device production costs

[0050] • Easy implementation and operation with lower service and maintenance costs

[0051] • Real-time and comprehensive analysis of lighting lines

[0052] • Complete control through artificial intelligence

[0053] • Reduction of potential AI errors or incorrect AI commands

[0054] • Full operator control over AI during decision-making

[0055] • Fastest possible resolution of potential errors or line failures

[0056] Shows a general schematic view of a sample single-line network with multiple lights.

[0057] Shows a general view of the system a sample single-line diagram of an overhead low-voltage network that includes multiple lights. These networks are extensive and consist of three conductors: phase, neutral, and street lighting, and they have been established throughout the entire city. The supply of electricity to all consumers and street lighting is provided through these networks. The two most important comonents of the system are marked with numbers:

[0058] 1) The signal receiver or the electronic module installed on each lamp that receives the programmed command to determine the operating status.

[0059] 2) The signal transmitter or the electronic module installed at the base that sends the corresponding commands to determine the operating mode of the lamps.Examples

[0060] This invention can be used in all street lighting systems, especially in the low pressure-street lighting network of electricity distribution companies, municipalities, highways, government bodies, etc. Any facility can easily install the electronic modules and artificial intelligent microprocessor in order to activate the three modes of operation included in this solution.

[0061] [Table 1] Depicts the operating modes of the claimed system.

[0062]

[0063] [Pic. 1] Shows the main electronic board designed for the system. This board is responsible for the pulse transmission that activates the different modes of operation in the lamps.

[0064] [Pic. 1]

[0065]

[0066] [Pic. 2] Depicts the schematic view of the same electronic transmission board.

[0067] [Pic. 2]

[0068]

[0069] [Pic. 3] Shows the designed receiver electronic board that is installed on each of the lamps.

[0070] [Pic. 3]

[0071]

[0072] [Pic. 4] Shows the schematic view of the same receiver board that is installed on each lamp.

[0073] [Pic. 4]

[0074]

[0075] [Pic. 5] Here the three modes of operation are depicted in a graph wherein the different pulse types to determine the system's operating status are shown. The diagrams show the operating modes A: Normal or standard, B: Alternating or Adjusting and C: Dimming.

[0076] [Pic. 5]

[0077]

[0078] This invention is highly applicable in various industries, with a special focus on urban management and the electricity industry. It is designed to optimize street lighting control, making it a valuable tool for municipalities, government agencies, and urban planners. This technology overcomes the challenges of traditional operational methods associated with street lighting systems by providing a cost-effective and efficient way to manage street lighting and high energy consumption.

[0079] In urban management, this invention enhances the ability to control and optimize public and street lighting, which is crucial for improving urban infrastructure, ensuring safety, and reducing energy costs. The automated system supports smart city plans by integrating advanced lighting control technologies, enabling cities to better manage energy resources and improve the overall efficiency of urban infrastructure. By automatically managing street lights, this technology ensures better illumination in critical areas, which contributes to safer urban environments and efficient energy use.

[0080] In the electricity industry, especially in low-pressure street lighting networks, this invention offers significant benefits. It reduces the complexity and cost associated with traditional lighting control systems, making it suitable for widespread adoption by electricity distribution companies. The pulse-based design minimizes the potential for damage or uncontrollable errors, providing a reliable solution for managing street lighting in various networks, including highways and other critical areas.

[0081] Overall, the industrial application of this invention extends to any entity responsible for street lighting management, providing a robust and cost-effective solution that supports urban development and energy conservation goals.

Claims

A street lighting control system that utilizes a pulse transmission method by switching on and off the voltage to manage energy consumption, which consists of two electronic boards that determine the operating status and control the street lighting using, and this device consists of the following components:- a main electronic board installed at the beginning of the lighting system's power supply- electronic boards installed on each lamp- a memory unit- a receiver for voltage switch calculation- a dip switch- an AI moduleAccording to Claim 1, the electronic board installed at the beginning of the lighting system's power supply, based on instructions received from the operator (via the GSM network) or the program stored in the microcontroller's memory, acts to switch the lighting system's voltage on and off according to the defined schedule.According to Claim 1, the receiver electronic board installed at each lamp calculates the number of voltage switches within the defined time interval, effectively determining the operating status, and based on the code specified on the board, which is set by a dip switch at the time of installation on the lamps, it will connect and disconnect the output relays.According to Claim 1, to prevent the lamps from repeatedly turning on and off during the pulse transmission process, the microcontroller on the electronic boards installed on the lamps will not issue any commands during the first few seconds of the initial voltage connection, and after completing the prescribed time, the microcontroller will determine the operating status based on the number of voltage switches and then proceed to issue the command to turn the lamp on or off.According to Claim 1, all the collected information is sent to three AI blocks: the data storage block, the decision-making block, and the error control block, and this information, obtained through the control board and sensors, is capable of being categorized and algorithmically processed before being sent to the first AI module.According to Claim 1, by equipping different lighting lines, these lines can be connected to an 8-block Spider AI system.According to Claim 6, the 8-block Spider AI system, in addition to the initial 3 blocks, includes 5 additional blocks, that Block 4 is responsible for controlling supply chain data, Block 5 for monitoring regional power stations, Block 6 for categorizing various sensors and urban lights, Block 7 for real-time regional and city-wide analysis, and Block 8 for facilitating effective communication between the blocks.

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