In this article, we will take a closer look at the issue of lighting control in smart installations. Therefore, if you are not familiar with this type of lighting, I encourage you to read on. However, if you are familiar with it, I hope you will find new information here to expand your knowledge.
Of course, there is the possibility of controlling lighting individually through separate circuits. However, in systems where there are multiple circuits in a room, control is done using so-called lighting scenes. This means that the system can be configured with personalized scenes, taking into account specific lighting circuits chosen by the user and their individual properties. The main property among these is the level of light intensity, so it is recommended to have as many dimmable circuits as possible. Another important feature of scenes is the ability to configure color in the case of CCT, RGB, RGBW circuits, etc. There are also other scene control properties, depending on the specific system. One such additional feature may be setting the times for turning on individual lights, which means they can be turned on simultaneously or sequentially.
Methods of light control in a smart installation
Launching lighting scenes can be done in various ways. One of the basic methods is through buttons located on wall keypads. It's worth taking a moment to discuss these keypads in more detail because they form the basis of control in a smart installation. These keypads can have from 1 to even 10 buttons, which can be programmed freely, meaning they can control not only lighting but also other functions. Each of these buttons can correspond to a series of events. Additionally, keypads often differentiate between single, double, and sometimes even triple presses of the button, as well as longer button holds, each triggering different events. It's also worth mentioning that these keypads typically have a built-in thermostat, which is extremely useful for performing functions other than lighting control.
Of course, buttons are not the only way to control lighting in smart installations. Additional independent methods include control through dedicated applications on mobile devices such as smartphones or tablets, as well as voice control. Furthermore, there is the possibility of automatically activating lights based on programmed events. For example, the system can automatically turn on outdoor lights along the driveway upon detecting the opening of the driveway gate, provided it's dark, which the system determines based on the geographical location of the installation and the day of the month. Automation also allows for advanced definition of how lights are triggered by presence sensors. The light can turn on upon detection of presence by the sensor in a differentiated manner or depending on the time and level of natural light.
Additional functionalities
Lighting in a smart building can also introduce various hidden functionalities. One commonly utilized function aimed at enhancing security is the so-called presence simulation. It involves randomly turning lights on in the house in a manner that prevents a potential intruder from definitively determining whether the occupants are currently present or not. This is an effective way to deter burglars by creating the impression that the building is not empty.
Human Centric Lighting, which involves lighting adapted to the daily cycle, is a method of lighting control that mimics the natural changes in sunlight throughout the day. For example, LED lighting can emit warm light during sunrise, gradually transitioning to cooler light during the day, and then returning to warm light during sunset. Implementing such lighting is possible thanks to intelligent systems that enable smooth changes in light color and take into account variable sunrise and sunset times in a given location. This allows for the creation of more natural and comfortable lighting conditions that can positively impact the well-being, daytime productivity, and evening relaxation of room users. Of course, implementing this concept requires CCT lighting, which means having LEDs of both warm and cool colors, allowing for a color range between 2700-6500K.
Implementation from a technical perspective
Lighting control can be implemented in two ways: through more traditional phase dimming and newer, usually more precise digital dimming. Phase dimming can be implemented centrally, meaning through modules containing several outputs for separate circuits, so the wiring requires running a cable from the circuit directly (without bridging) to the distribution box. Another way to implement phase dimming is by using retrofit dimmers (which allows converting traditional lighting into smart lighting). Digital dimming is associated with the use of a specific system. Examples of systems used for digitally controlled lighting are DALI and DMX. Such systems are characterized by the presence of a communication bus and digital controllers, so you can always expect a large number of controllers hidden in the distribution cabinet or distributed in various locations throughout the building. The choice of dimming method depends on several factors, mainly the nature of the building - whether it is a building at the design stage or an existing one with installed wiring that needs to be adapted.
If you are considering implementing smart lighting and/or other smart solutions in your premises, we warmly invite you to contact us. We will gladly advise and implement the appropriate solution tailored to your needs.