Smart Lighting Using Sensors
Smart lighting is a lighting technology designed for energy efficiency. This may include high efficiency fixtures and automated controls that make adjustments based on conditions such as ambient lux levels and occupancy of people.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates average saving potential using smart sensors:
| Space Type | Savings Potential |
| Private Offices | 13-50% |
| Conference Room | 22-65% |
| Class Room | 40-46% |
| Restrooms | 30-90% |
| Corridors | 30-80% |
| Store areas (including warehouse) | 45-80% |
Minimizing energy usage
Smart lighting is a good way which enables to minimize and save energy by allowing the householder to control remotely cooling, heating, lighting, and the control of appliances This ability saves energy and provides a level of comfort and convenience.
The concept of smart lighting also involves utilizing natural light from the sun to reduce the use of man-made lighting, and the simple concept of people turning off lighting when they leave a room.
Smart Lighting Control Techniques:
Use of Sensors:
A complete sensor consists of a motion sensor, an electronic control unit, and a controllable switch/relay. The detector senses motion and determines whether there are occupants in the space. It also has a timer that signals the electronic control unit after a set period of inactivity. The control unit uses this signal to activate the switch/relay to turn equipment on or off.
Day Light and Occupancy Sensing:
In response to day lighting technology, daylight-linked automated response systems have been developed to further reduce energy consumption. It brings light ON - only when area is occupied and lux level is below sensing level. It automatically dims lights according to ambient light level to maintain constant brightness between 10 and 2000 lux (adjustable).
Electricity and maintenance cost savings
Energy costs are immediately reduced by up to 35% through intelligent ON/OFF switching, targeted progressive dimming and efficient management of the consumption.
Conclusion
There is a tremendous drive towards finding innovative smart lighting solutions; and sensor technology is at the heart of it. Combining the appropriate sensors with micro controllers and power management can produce cost-effective low-power control systems that save both power and money.
By reducing the energy requirements of one of the world’s largest consumers, system developers, building operators, consumers and ultimately the environment all benefit through less power stations and lower carbon emissions. Small, simple changes that bring about smart lighting can have significant impact around the world.
Pyrotech offers you a wide range of sensor based solutions to save energy:-
a) PIR based occupancy sensor
b) Microwave based occupancy sensor
c) Daylight Linked based occupancy sensor