Home lighting is one of the most important factors, since it is with its help that work and rest in the evening is organized. Today, many design and technical solutions are used to solve such problems. This allows you to create not only a practical, but also a beautiful lighting system. More and more often in houses there are lamps with motion sensors, lighting. They simplify the control of the lighting system and make it more practical.
How does it work?
A luminaire with a motion sensor can be either a separate or a connected device. The signal receiver itself is quite simple. It consists of several main parts:
- External sensor. There are different types of these elements, it all depends on the type of received signals.
- Internal analyzer … This is often a special system that measures the voltage across the sensor itself.
- Switch. The design assumes the presence of several terminals responsible for turning on the light bulb.
The principle of operation of this type of luminaire can be described in several successive steps:
- Initially, the sensor is adjusted to a certain sensitivity. In this case, not only the lighting can change. Some models work on the principle of sonar with ultrasound.
- When movement occurs in the area of the sensor, the indicators of LEDs or other systems responsible for signal reception change. This leads to a change in current or voltage.
- Changes in the previously described characteristics are recorded by a special differentiating scheme. It triggers the switch, which turns on the light bulb.
In this case, the sensors can be tuned to various modes (street and others).
Benefits
Motion sensor luminaires are versatile mechanisms that are very useful and functional. These designs have several advantages:
- Practicality. The designs are simple and original. The luminaires can be used both outdoors and indoors. Moreover, they can be adapted to almost any weather conditions.
- Convenience. The light is automatically turned on even in complete darkness. This allows you not to look for the switch.
- Profitability … This feature is the most significant advantage that distinguishes these lamps from other types. At the same time, the level of savings can reach significant indicators. When it comes to glitches, it is very rare for the lights to stay on.
Views
Luminaires of this type can be classified according to several criteria. There are several types of devices (depending on the type of sensor):
Infrared. Devices of this type react to temperature changes inside the room or at a certain distance from the sensor. It is based on the fact that a person generates heat, which is perceived by the sensor
The systems are completely safe for health, therefore they are used very often.
It should be noted that such a lamp can work even on an inanimate object that is heated to a certain temperature. If a person is dressed in thick clothing or in several layers, then the sensor will not be able to pick up the heated body behind it.
Ultrasonic. The operation of the system is based on the emission of a signal, which is then received by the sensor. Among the advantages of such lamps, one can single out their low cost, the ability to respond to a person, regardless of the type of clothing. These systems work well in humid and dusty environments
However, these sensors can affect the well-being of pets, as they pick up ultrasound. The sensors work only at short distances and with sudden movements.
Microwave. The sensors are based on high frequency electromagnetic waves. The principle is the same as for ultrasonic lamps. Waves, reflected from a moving surface, change the current readings in the sensor
This type of structure can detect movement even through a thin door. Moreover, their work does not depend on the ambient temperature. The cost of these products is quite high, which does not allow them to be used everywhere. Frequent exposure to radiation can adversely affect human health. Luminaires of this type are used in areas where the movement of people is limited (the organization of safe areas, and so on).
One of the criteria for classifying luminaires is their placement. … There are several types of devices:
- Wall mounted … The structures are installed on vertical surfaces. Such models can be intended for both indoor and outdoor use. Wall lights are most often supplemented with infrared sensors.
- Ceiling. The luminaires are flat. They are usually installed in toilets or bathrooms. Here they are equipped with ultrasonic systems.
- Autonomous. Devices of this type are equipped with batteries, which allows them to be installed in a wide variety of places. They can be both external and internal. They are often used to organize lighting inside closets or dressing rooms.
How to choose?
Almost all types of luminaires can be supplemented with motion sensors. Only a certain group is produced already with sensors mounted inside. When buying such a device, several parameters should be evaluated:
- Lamp type. Luminaires are complemented by several types of lighting fixtures - from halogen bulbs to LED strips. Each of them has unique characteristics of electricity consumption and light spectrum. If economy is important to you, give preference to LED designs.
- Scope of use. Many luminaires are residential systems. If the structures are supposed to be mounted outdoors, then they must be protected from external factors. In most cases, they are supplemented with special protective housings.
- Connection method … Stationary models require electrical wiring. If you need autonomy, then you should purchase battery-powered lamps.
- Sensor type … The types of sensors and their advantages have been discussed earlier. In this case, it is also advisable to evaluate the place where the installation of the lighting device is planned.
- Design. This parameter is important when appliances have to fit into a certain type of interior. Today, there are many types of lamps on the market that will fit both high-tech and classic style.
Connection
Installing luminaires with motion sensors is a relatively simple operation that you can do yourself. It's as easy as setting up Wi-Fi. There are several electrical diagrams that allow you to connect the device. The easiest option is to install luminaires that are equipped with built-in sensors. To install the luminaire, you must perform several sequential operations:
- Initially, you should choose a place where the device will be located. It is important that the sensor covers the areas where you are constantly moving. Often it should have been aimed at the door.
- After that, the wiring from the box is brought to the installation site. Phase and zero are connected to the luminaire using special terminals or clamps. It is important to follow the pattern indicated by the manufacturers.
If you supplement a regular lamp with a motion sensor, then the connection algorithm is slightly different. The lighting fixture is installed first. It can be placed almost anywhere in the room. Then a place is selected for mounting the sensor. Then the neutral and phase cables are connected to it, which are connected to the input terminals. After that, 2 output cables are also taken off from the sensor. They are fixed with special clamps. The process is completed by connecting the lamp using the output wires. The mounting pattern corresponds to the light bulb mounting pattern. This option does not allow you to control the process of turning off the light, since it is regulated automatically. For this, there is a wiring diagram with a switch. To do this, the switch is connected in parallel to the sensor.
How to adjust?
Sensor tuning provides the ability to change certain parameters that affect its sensitivity. There are several possible modes that can be adjusted:
- Time. This parameter specifies how long the light stays on. The maximum value is 600 seconds. To change this characteristic, turn the Time knob to the desired position.
- Illumination … This characteristic is responsible for the level of illumination at which the sensor is triggered. The "LUX" switch is responsible for this function, which must also be turned in the desired direction.
- Sensitivity. This is one of the most important characteristics that is responsible for the conditions under which the sensor will turn on. You can also adjust this parameter using a special knob. To do this, you need to make the usual turn clockwise or counterclockwise.
You can get the optimal value experimentally. Do not try to make the sensor too sensitive, as it will be triggered by the slightest movement. It won't be very convenient. Luminaires with motion sensors are unique technical solutions that complement sophistication and style with modern functionality. You will not be disappointed with such a device.
For an overview of a luminaire with a motion sensor, see the following video.