Auto-Calibration of Light Control Systems
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional daylight harvesting systems require manual calibration of target voltage levels for light sensors, which is inefficient and inconvenient, necessitating personnel presence after hours to set the desired steady state light level.
Innovation Solution
An automated calibration method using an ambient light sensor connected to a detection circuit and a microprocessor, which forces electrical loads to full illumination, disables control inputs, monitors light levels, compares them, and generates a target voltage level based on the lowest detected level, stored for future reference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual calibration of target voltage level is used, then the system can be implemented with simple components, but the calibration process requires personnel presence after hours and is inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-calibration by automatically monitoring ambient light levels over time and determining the target voltage level without requiring manual intervention. The microprocessor executes calibration routines that autonomously adjust the target voltage based on detected light conditions, eliminating the need for personnel presence during calibration.
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration process is performed automatically during system initialization or at predetermined intervals before normal operation begins. The microprocessor pre-determines the target voltage level by monitoring light levels during a calibration period, so that the system is ready for immediate operation without requiring manual calibration at the time of installation or maintenance.
2Ease of operation
If the system monitors light levels continuously to maintain constant illumination, then user comfort is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the target voltage level parameter based on monitored ambient light conditions and historical data. By changing the target voltage parameter automatically, the system maintains optimal illumination levels while adapting to varying environmental light conditions, thereby reducing unnecessary energy consumption during periods when natural light is sufficient.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors ambient light levels and uses this feedback to automatically adjust interior lighting output. The microprocessor compares detected light levels with the stored target voltage level and modulates the lighting system accordingly, maintaining constant illumination while minimizing energy use by relying on natural light when available.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables a cost-effective, high-performance, closed-loop auto-calibration process for light control systems, ensuring optimal light levels are maintained without manual intervention, reducing energy waste and promoting productivity.
Implementation Method 1
an ambient light sensor connected to a detection circuit for detecting the amount of ambient light within a given zone
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and method for enabling an automatic calibration sequence for a light control system having a daylight harvesting scheme is disclosed herein. An ambient light sensor connects to a detection circuit for detecting the amount of ambient light within a given zone. A microprocessor connects between the detection circuit and a dimming circuit for providing control to initiate dimming and to start the auto-calibration sequence. Responsive to the amount of ambient light detected, the dimming circuit controls the power supplied to a plurality of electrical loads. A storage unit connects to the microprocessor for storing minimum light levels assessed during the auto-calibration sequence wherein the ambient light levels are monitored for a predetermined amount of time to determine the lowest level of ambient light generated for the purpose of setting and storing a target voltage level associated with such.