CIRCUIT ANALYIS

PROJECT REPORT

Automatic Street Light Controller

Submitted by:

Adeena Anwar 2022F-BCE-143

Umsa Sarwar 2022F-BCE-202
Laiqa Asim 2022F-BCE-140
Zil-E-Huma Nasir 2022F-BCE-217

Submitted to:
Ms. Arifa Khatib

20th June, 2023

Department of Computer Engineering

Sir Syed University of Engineering & Technology, Karachi
Table of Contents

Contents Page#

Introduction 1
Problem Analysis 2
Design Requirements 3
Feasibility Analysis 4
Possible Solutions 5
Preliminary Design 6
Circuit Overview 7
Design Description 8
Experimental Results 9
Performance Analysis 10
Future Scope 11
Social and Cultural Implications 12
Conclusion 13
References 14
Introduction

This project's aim is to contribute to a sustainable future by designing and implementing

an efficient and intelligent light street controller. With the rapid growth of
urbanization, street lighting has become an essential aspect of ensuring public safety
and security. However, traditional street lighting systems are inefficient, leading to high
energy consumption and increased electricity bills.

Therefore, the project aims to develop a street light controller that uses Op Amp. This
controller will automatically switch on the street lights when it gets dark and switch
them off when there is sufficient daylight. By doing so, it will not only help save energy
and lower electricity bills but also promote a sustainable future.

To achieve this goal, the street light controller will be equipped with advanced sensors
that will monitor the surrounding light levels, ensuring that the street lights only
operate when necessary.

Additionally, the controller will be designed to be highly efficient, ensuring that it

consumes the least amount of power possible while maintaining optimal
performance.

Furthermore, this project aims to promote the use of renewable energy sources by
integrating them into the street light controller. This will help reduce the dependency
on non-renewable energy sources, contributing to a greener and more sustainable
future.

In conclusion, the project's main objective is to design and implement a highly efficient
and intelligent street light controller that saves energy, reduces electricity bills, promotes
the use of renewable energy sources, and contributes to building a sustainable future.

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Problem Analysis

Street lights have become an essential part of modern life, providing necessary
illumination to ensure public safety and security. However, these lights consume a
significant amount of energy, resulting in high electricity bills and contributing to
environmental pollution. Traditional street lights run constantly throughout the night,
regardless of the surrounding light conditions, leading to energy wastage.

To address this issue, an intelligent street light system is required that can switch on
the street lights only when needed, reducing energy consumption and lowering costs.
This system will use advanced sensors to monitor the surrounding light levels, ensuring
that the street lights operate optimally and only when necessary.

Furthermore, the system will incorporate advanced technologies such as Op Amp to

control and optimize the street lights' operations, ensuring that they operate efficiently
and sustainably. The Op Amp system will be designed to adjust the street lights' intensity,
ensuring that the lights' brightness is proportional to the required lighting conditions.

Moreover, this intelligent street light system can be integrated with renewable energy
sources, such as solar panels or wind turbines, to reduce the dependence on non-
renewable energy sources. This will help to reduce the carbon footprint and promote
sustainable energy practices.

The implementation of an intelligent street light system will not only save energy and
lower costs but also contribute to the creation of a more sustainable environment. It
will enhance the safety and security of public spaces while reducing the environmental
impact and promoting sustainable practices.

This intelligent street light system is essential for promoting sustainable practices,
enhancing public safety, and reducing energy costs. By incorporating advanced
technologies such as Op Amp and renewable energy sources, we can create a greener
and more sustainable future for generations to come.

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Design Requirements

The design of the automatic street light controller involves several key requirements to
ensure its effective and efficient operation. Firstly, the controller should incorporate a
light sensing capability, typically achieved by integrating a light-dependent resistor (LDR),
to detect changes in ambient light levels. The LDR should be capable of accurately
sensing light intensity and providing reliable input to the controller.

One of the primary objectives of the controller is automatic operation, where the light
source turns on or off based on the detected light levels. This feature eliminates the need
for manual intervention and ensures that the lights are only activated when necessary,
improving energy efficiency. The controller should provide seamless transitions between
the on and off states without any noticeable delay or flickering.

To accommodate different lighting conditions, the controller should offer adjustable

sensitivity. This can be achieved through the inclusion of a potentiometer or a similar
component that allows the user to fine-tune the sensitivity of the light sensor. This
flexibility enables the controller to adapt to varying environmental conditions and
optimize its performance accordingly.

Stability and reliability are critical aspects of the design. The controller should exhibit
consistent and accurate light control, free from false triggers or erratic behavior caused
by external factors such as electrical noise or temperature fluctuations. It should be
designed to provide reliable and stable operation over an extended period.

Safety considerations are of paramount importance in the design. The controller should
include protective measures to safeguard the circuit and connected components from
overcurrent, overvoltage, and short-circuit conditions. Adherence to electrical safety
standards ensures that the controller operates without posing any hazards to users or the
surrounding environment.

In terms of compatibility and scalability, the controller should be designed to work with
various types of light sources, including incandescent bulbs, LEDs, or fluorescent lamps.
It should be capable of accommodating different power requirements and installation
setups, allowing for versatility in its application.

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 Feasibility Analysis

The proposed design for the street light controller is not only feasible but also practical
and cost-effective. Here’s the feasibility analysis:

1. Technical Feasibility:
 The circuit configuration using Op Amp 741, LDR, potentiometer, and resistors is
technically feasible and can be implemented with basic electronic components.
 The circuit can be easily constructed on a breadboard using jumper wires for
prototyping and testing.
2. Economic Feasibility:
 The required components, including Op Amp 741, LDR, potentiometer, and
resistors, are cost-effective and readily available in the market.
 The overall cost of the circuit is relatively low, making it economically feasible for
individual projects or small-scale applications.
3. Operational Feasibility:
 The automatic street light controller offers a practical and convenient solution for
controlling light sources based on ambient light levels.
 The operation of the circuit is straightforward, and the potentiometer allows for easy
adjustment of the reference voltage.
The circuit reliably turns on or off the load based on the detected light levels.
4. Environmental Feasibility:
 The automatic street light controller promotes energy efficiency by adjusting the
light source based on ambient light conditions, reducing unnecessary energy
consumption.
 By using a light sensor and comparator, the circuit contributes to energy
conservation and aligns with sustainability goals.
5. Limitations and Considerations:
 The Op Amp 741, as a general-purpose amplifier, may have limitations in terms of
input/output voltage range, precision, and other performance characteristics
compared to specialized amplifiers.
 External factors like temperature variations or electrical noise may affect the circuit's
performance and require proper consideration.

Overall, the project demonstrates technical feasibility, economic affordability,

operational convenience, and environmental benefits. While considering the
limitations, the circuit offers a feasible solution for this project.

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Possible Solutions

Although we created this project using an operational amplifier, there are other possible
solutions to achieve the desired results. To create an automatic street light controller, a
general approach involves using a microcontroller, light sensor, relay module, power
supply, and a light source. The microcontroller, such as Arduino or a compatible device,
acts as the central processing unit of the system. It provides the intelligence and decision-
making capability. The light sensor, such as a Light Dependent Resistor (LDR),
phototransistor, or ambient light sensor, is used to detect the ambient light level in the
environment. The sensor is connected to the microcontroller's input pin to provide a
continuous stream of data regarding the light intensity.

The relay module or solid-state relay is responsible for controlling the power supply to
the light source. It acts as a switch that is controlled by the microcontroller. When the
microcontroller sends a signal to the relay module, it either connects or disconnects the
power supply to the light source, depending on the desired operation. The relay module
is connected to a suitable output pin of the microcontroller, ensuring compatibility with
the voltage and current requirements of the relay.

A stable power supply is essential for the microcontroller's operation and may require a
separate power source for the relay module, depending on the specific design. Proper
power supply connections must be made to ensure safe and reliable operation.

The light source, such as a bulb, LED, or any other suitable load, is connected to the relay
module. When the relay module is activated by the microcontroller, it completes the
circuit and allows the power to flow to the light source, turning it on. When the relay is
deactivated, the power supply to the light source is cut off, turning it off.

The microcontroller continuously reads the input from the light sensor and compares it
to a predefined threshold value. Based on this comparison, the microcontroller
determines whether the light source should be turned on or off. If the ambient light level
falls below the threshold, indicating a darker environment, the microcontroller triggers
the relay module to activate the light source. Conversely, if the light level exceeds the
threshold, indicating sufficient ambient light, the microcontroller deactivates the relay
module, turning off the light source. This automated system ensures that the light source
is controlled based on the surrounding light conditions, providing convenience, energy
efficiency, and potential cost savings.

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Preliminary Design

The preliminary design of the street light controller is a sophisticated system that
incorporates a range of essential components, each playing a crucial role in ensuring its
efficient and effective operation. At the heart of the design is the light-sensitive resistor
(LDR), a device that is capable of detecting the amount of light present in the
surrounding environment. This information is then used to regulate the intensity of the
street lights, ensuring that they are not too bright during daylight hours and providing
ample illumination during the night.

To achieve this regulation, the output of the LDR is compared to a reference voltage
using an operational amplifier (Op Amp). The Op Amp, in turn, relies on a number of
resistors to set the reference voltage, ensuring that the street lights respond quickly
and accurately to changes in light levels.

The use of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) as street lamps is another critical component
of the design. LEDs are highly efficient and long-lasting, providing bright and consistent
illumination while using minimal power. This not only reduces energy costs but also
minimizes the environmental impact of the street light controller.

Finally, the high granularity interactive potentiometer is a key feature that allows users
to adjust the intensity of the street lights according to their needs. This provides an
unprecedented level of control, allowing cities and municipalities to fine-tune their
lighting solutions to the specific requirements of their communities.

With all these components working together in tandem, the street light controller is able
to provide reliable and efficient lighting for streets, highways, and other public areas. This
not only enhances safety and visibility for all who utilize these spaces but also reduces
energy costs and minimizes the environmental impact of street lighting systems. Overall,
the preliminary design of the street light controller is a testament to the power of modern
technology in addressing some of the most pressing challenges facing urban
communities today.

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Circuit Overview

Here's the circuit diagram of this project.

As it can clearly be seen, the circuit consists of a 741 Op-amp, an LDR, two 10k resistors,
a positive and negative power supply of 9V, a potentiometer and a bulb. One end of the
LDR, potentiometer, +Vcc of the op-amp and the positive power supply (9V) are
connected on the same node. The other end of the LDR is connected to the 10k resistor
whose other end is connected to the common ground. The other end of the
potentiometer, -Vcc of the op-amp and one end of the bulb are also connected to the
same common ground. The junction between the LDR and the 10k resistor is connected
directly to the inverting input terminal (-) of the op-amp while the wiper terminal of the
potentiometer is connected the non-inverting input terminal (+) of the op-amp. Another
10k resistor is connected to the output terminal of the op-amp whose other end is
connected with the bulb. The light turns on where there isn’t any external light and vice
versa. Here's the hardware implementation with bulb at ON and OFF states:

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Design Description

The automatic street light controller is designed to provide efficient and convenient
control of a light source based on the surrounding light conditions. The system consists
of several key components and their interconnections. Here's a design description of the
system:

1. Breadboard: A breadboard is used as a platform for connecting and organizing the

components. The Op Amp 741, light sensor, potentiometer, resistors, and other
necessary components are placed on the breadboard and connected using jumper
wires.
2. Jumper Wires: Jumper wires are used to establish the electrical connections between
the components on the breadboard. They are inserted into the breadboard's holes
and connected to the appropriate terminals of the components, ensuring proper
circuit connections.
3. Op Amp 741: The Op Amp 741 is utilized as a comparator in the circuit. It compares
the voltage at the non-inverting input with the reference voltage at the inverting
input and produces a corresponding output voltage.
4. Light Sensor: A light-dependent resistor (LDR) is employed as the light sensor. One
terminal of the LDR is connected to the positive voltage supply, and the other
terminal is connected to a resistor (R1). The junction of the LDR and R1 is connected
to the non-inverting input of the Op Amp 741.
5. Potentiometer: A potentiometer is used to set the reference voltage for the
comparator. One terminal of the potentiometer is connected to the positive voltage
supply, the wiper (center terminal) is connected to the inverting input of the Op Amp
741, and the other terminal is connected to the ground.
6. Resistors: Two resistors, R1 and R2, are included in the circuit. R1 is connected in
series with the LDR to form a voltage divider circuit. R2 is connected between the
output of the Op Amp 741 and the load (e.g., a bulb or LED) to limit the current flow.
7. Power Supply: The circuit requires a dual power supply, typically ±9V, to provide the
necessary voltage for the Op Amp 741.
8. Output and Load: The output of the Op Amp 741 is connected to the load directly.
The load can be a bulb, LED, or any other suitable device that requires control.
The Op Amp 741, functioning as a comparator, enables the circuit to compare the
ambient light level with the reference voltage and control the light source accordingly.
The potentiometer allows for adjusting the sensitivity of the circuit, and the resistors
provide necessary voltage division and current limiting.

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Experimental Results

The experimental results of the street light controller circuit show that it is capable of
automatically turning on and off the LED street light based on the surrounding light
level. The circuit's performance was evaluated through hardware implementation, with
impressive results.

In the automatic street light controller circuit using an LDR, potentiometer, op amp 741,
resistor, and bulb, the expected experimental results would be as follows:

1. Ambient Light Intensity: When the ambient light intensity is high, the resistance of
the LDR decreases. This causes a higher voltage at the non-inverting input (+) of the
op amp compared to the reference voltage at the inverting input (-) set by the
potentiometer. As a result, the output of the op amp is in a low state (close to 0V),
and the bulb remains off.

2. Low Light Intensity: When the ambient light intensity decreases, the resistance of
the LDR increases. This leads to a lower voltage at the non-inverting input (+) of the
op amp compared to the reference voltage at the inverting input (-) set by the
potentiometer. The op amp output switches to a high state (close to the positive
supply voltage), and the relay or transistor circuit connected to the op amp output
activates. This, in turn, powers the bulb, causing it to light up.

By adjusting the potentiometer, you can set the threshold level at which the light turns
on or off. When the light falls below the threshold, the automatic street light controller
will activate the bulb, and when the light rises above the threshold, it will turn off the
bulb.

The experimental results would demonstrate the functionality of the automatic street
light controller system. The light source would automatically turn on or off based on the
surrounding light intensity, providing a convenient and energy-efficient lighting
solution. The system's responsiveness and accuracy in detecting light variations would
be observed, ensuring a smooth transition between different lighting conditions.

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Performance Analysis

The performance analysis is given below as;

1. Sensitivity: The circuit's sensitivity refers to its ability to detect changes in ambient
light intensity accurately. The LDR's resistance variation with light allows for sensitivity
to light changes, making the circuit responsive to different lighting conditions.
2. Threshold Control: The potentiometer in the circuit allows for easy adjustment of the
threshold level at which the light turns on or off. By rotating the potentiometer, the
reference voltage at the non-inverting input of the op amp can be precisely set. This
provides control over the circuit's activation point, allowing customization to suit
specific lighting requirements.
3. Response Time: The response time of the circuit refers to how quickly it detects
changes in ambient light and adjusts the light source accordingly. In this circuit, the
response time depends on the speed of the op amp and the relay or transistor used
for switching the bulb. The op amp 741 is a relatively fast operational amplifier,
ensuring a quick response. However, the response time may also depend on external
factors like the relay's switching time or the transistor's switching characteristics.
4. Power Efficiency: The automatic street light controller circuit is designed to optimize
power efficiency. When the ambient light level is sufficient, the circuit ensures that the
bulb remains off, saving power. It activates the bulb only when the light falls below
the threshold level. By efficiently controlling the light source, the circuit reduces
unnecessary power consumption and promotes energy efficiency.
5. Reliability: The circuit's reliability is crucial for consistent and trouble-free operation.
The use of the op amp 741 and other standard electronic components ensures
stability and reliability in normal operating conditions. However, it is important to
consider component quality, thermal considerations, and appropriate circuit
protection measures to enhance reliability and prevent potential issues such as
voltage spikes or component overheating.
6. Compatibility: The automatic street light controller circuit is compatible with various
light sources, such as bulbs or LEDs, as long as the relay or transistor used can handle
the load's power requirements. It can be easily adapted to control different types of
lights by adjusting the circuit parameters and selecting suitable relay modules or
transistors.
Overall, the performance analysis highlights the circuit's sensitivity to light changes,
threshold control capability, response time, power efficiency, reliability, and compatibility
contributing to an effective and efficient automatic light control system.
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Future Scope

The following future scope possibilities aim to enhance the functionality, efficiency, and
user experience of the automatic street light controller, aligning it with advancements in
technology and the growing demand for intelligent and energy-efficient solutions:

1. Energy Efficiency: The current design of the automatic street light controller
provides energy-efficient control of the light source based on ambient light levels.
However, there is potential for further optimization and improvement in energy
efficiency. Future developments could focus on incorporating advanced sensor
technologies, such as motion sensors or occupancy sensors, to activate the light
source only when necessary, leading to even greater energy savings.
2. Smart Control and Integration: The automatic street light controller can be
integrated into a larger smart home or building automation system. This integration
would allow for centralized control and monitoring of multiple light controllers,
enabling enhanced functionality and flexibility. For example, the system could
incorporate scheduling features to automatically adjust the light levels based on time
of day or occupancy patterns.
3. Wireless Connectivity: The addition of wireless connectivity, such as Wi-Fi or
Bluetooth, would enable remote control and monitoring of the light controller. This
would allow users to adjust the settings, receive notifications, and track energy usage
from their mobile devices or through a web-based interface. Wireless connectivity
would enhance convenience and accessibility.
4. Adaptive Light Control: Future iterations of the automatic street light controller
could incorporate adaptive algorithms and machine learning techniques to
dynamically adjust the light levels based on user preferences and environmental
conditions. By continuously learning and adapting to user behavior and changing
lighting requirements, the system can provide personalized and optimal lighting
experiences.
5. Enhanced User Interface: Improvements in the user interface can simplify the setup
and configuration process of the automatic street light controller. Intuitive interfaces,
such as mobile apps, can help users to customize settings, monitor energy usage,
and receive notifications or alerts.
6. Integration with Voice Assistants and Smart Devices: The automatic street light
controller can be integrated with voice assistants, such as Amazon Alexa or Google
Assistant, allowing users to control the lighting system using voice commands.
Integration with other smart devices would enable seamless interoperability.

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Social and Cultural Implications

The installation of an intelligent street light control system has significant social and
cultural implications that go beyond energy savings and cost reductions. One of the
most significant benefits of this technology is its potential to minimize the carbon
footprint of street lighting. By reducing energy consumption and optimizing lighting
levels, this system can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to a cleaner
and more sustainable environment.

Furthermore, the intelligent street light control system can help preserve the natural
beauty of the night sky, an important cultural and environmental asset. The system's
ability to minimize light pollution can help protect the nocturnal habitats of local species
and reduce their exposure to artificial light, which can have negative impacts on their
behavior, health, and well-being.

The installation of this technology can also lead to significant cost savings for local
towns and taxpayers. By minimizing energy use and electricity costs, the system can help
reduce the financial burden on local governments and taxpayers. This can free up
resources that can be used to fund other important community projects, such as
education, public safety, and infrastructure.

Moreover, the intelligent street light control system can serve as a model for other
communities looking to reduce their carbon footprint and enhance their sustainability
efforts. By implementing this technology, communities can demonstrate their
commitment to reducing their impact on the environment and protecting natural
resources. This can enhance the community's reputation and attractiveness as a place to
live, work, and visit, benefiting both residents and businesses alike.

In conclusion, the installation of an intelligent street light control system can have broad
social and cultural implications that go beyond energy savings and cost reductions. This
technology can help reduce the carbon footprint of street lighting, preserve the natural
beauty of the night sky, and contribute to a more sustainable and livable community. By
demonstrating a commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility,
communities can enhance their reputation and attractiveness, promoting economic
growth and community well-being.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, the Automatic Street Light Controller project has been successfully
designed and implemented on hardware using an operational amplifier. The project
aimed to create a system that automatically turns on and off street lights based on
ambient light levels, with the goal of reducing energy use and promoting environmental
sustainability. The project achieved its objectives, demonstrating the feasibility of
developing energy-efficient and eco-friendly technology through the use of an
operational amplifier.

The automatic street light controller using Op Amp 741 offers a simple yet effective
solution for automating the control of light sources based on ambient light levels. The
circuit, comprising of an Op Amp 741 as a comparator, a light-dependent resistor
(LDR), a potentiometer for reference voltage adjustment, and resistors for voltage
division and current limiting, demonstrates the ability to turn on or off a connected
load, such as a bulb or LED, based on the ambient light conditions. The circuit provides
a robust and eco-friendly approach, utilizing the Op Amp 741's precise voltage
comparison capabilities to ensure accurate and reliable light control. The use of a
breadboard and jumper wires facilitates the construction and prototyping process,
allowing for easy modifications and adjustments. The opportunities for further energy
optimization, smart control and integration, wireless connectivity, adaptive light control,
integration with renewable energy sources, enhanced user interfaces, and compatibility
with voice assistants and other smart devices can be availed using the concept of this
project. These advancements aim to enhance energy efficiency, convenience,
customization, and sustainability in lighting control systems.

Overall, the Automatic Street Light Controller project provides a practical example of how
technological advancements can be used to promote environmental sustainability and
reduce energy consumption. As we continue to face the challenges posed by climate
change, it is essential to explore such technological innovations to maximize their positive
impact on the environment and society.

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References

https://www.labcenter.com/simulation/

https://www.electronics-tutorials.ws/io/io_4.html

https://www.electronicsforu.com/technology-trends/learn-electronics/ldr-
light-dependent-resistors-basics

https://www.allaboutcircuits.com/textbook/semiconductors/chpt-
8/introduction-to-op-amps/

https://ledask.com/led-bulb-circuit/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Potentiometer

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