SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AUTOMATICALLY CONTROLLING A LIGHTING APPARATUS

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a system (100) and a method for automatically controlling a lighting apparatus (112). The system (100) includes photovoltaic panels (102-1 to 102-N) that generate electrical power. Further, dual-channel thermoelectric modules (104-1 to 104-N) generate the electrical power, and a regulator (106) regulates the electrical power. Further, a battery (108) stores the electrical power received from the regulator (106), and a control module (110) transmits the electrical power from the battery (108) to the lighting apparatus (112). Further, a microcontroller (114) fetches data from a database and automatically controls the lighting apparatus (112) based on the data using the control module (110). Therefore, the present disclosure eliminates the need for manual operation or adjustments and existing Light-Dependent Resistors (LDRs), ensuring automated, efficient, and location-specific control of the lighting apparatus (112) for enhanced energy management and reduced maintenance requirements.

Specification

Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of lighting systems. In particular, the present disclosure provides a system and a method for automatically controlling a lighting apparatus using Internet of Things (IoT) to enable energy efficiency and lower maintenance by operating in real-time based on specific location data.

BACKGROUND
[0002] Existing streetlight automation systems, such as Light-Dependent Resistors (LDRs) and fixed timers, present several limitations. LDR-based systems activate based on ambient light, but sensitivity to temporary shadows, passing objects, or artificial light often leads to unnecessary power use and increased wear. Additionally, the fixed timers provide scheduled control but fail to consider seasonal changes in daylight, causing inefficient lighting operation.
[0003] Further, some existing systems incorporate solar panels to reduce grid dependency. However, limited connectivity restricts dynamic power management according to real-time conditions and specific location requirements. Traditional streetlight control methods frequently lead to inefficiencies, increased maintenance needs, and reduced energy conservation.
[0004] Therefore, there is a need to address at least the above-mentioned drawbacks and any other shortcomings, or at the very least, provide a valuable alternative to the existing methods and systems.

OBJECT OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE
[0005] A general object of the present disclosure is to provide an efficient and reliable system and method that obviates the above-mentioned limitations of existing systems and methods efficiently.
[0006] An object of the present disclosure relates to a system and a method for automatically controlling a lighting apparatus using Internet of Things (IoT) to enable energy efficiency and lower maintenance by operating in real-time based on specific location data.
[0007] Another object of the present disclosure relates to a system and a method for fetching data from a database through an Application Programming Interface (API) to automatically control a lighting apparatus based on the data, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and reducing the need for manual intervention.

SUMMARY
[0008] Aspects of the present disclosure relate to the field of lighting system. In particular, the present disclosure provides a system and a method for automatically controlling a lighting apparatus using Internet of Things (IoT) to enable energy efficiency and lower maintenance by operating in real-time based on specific location data.
[0009] An aspect of the present disclosure relates to a system for automatically controlling a lighting apparatus. The system includes one or more photovoltaic panels, one or more dual-channel thermoelectric modules, a regulator, a battery, a control module, and a microcontroller. Further, the one or more photovoltaic panels are connected in series, where the one or more photovoltaic panels are configured to generate electrical power. The one or more dual-channel thermoelectric modules include wound coils configured to facilitate the generation of the electrical power and the regulator connected to the one or more photovoltaic panels and the one or more dual-channel thermoelectric modules, where the regulator is configured to regulate the electrical power. Further, the battery connected to the regulator, where the battery is configured to store the electrical power received from the regulator, and the control module connected to the battery, where the control module is configured to transmit the electrical power from the battery to the lighting apparatus. Further, the microcontroller connected to a communication module associated with the system, where the microcontroller is configured to fetch data from a database using the communication module, and where the microcontroller, using the control module, is configured to automatically control the lighting apparatus based on the data.
[00010] In an embodiment, the regulator may be configured to convert the electrical power with respect to one or more parameters of the battery associated with the system.
[00011] In an embodiment, the one or more parameters may include: a State of Charge (SoC) of the battery, a voltage level of the battery, a temperature value of the battery, a charging and discharging rate of the battery, and a health status of the battery.
[00012] In an embodiment, the microcontroller may be configured to transmit a request message to the database for fetching the data.
[00013] In an embodiment, the data may include at least one of: coordinate information of latitude and longitude corresponding to an identity of the system, historical timing information of sunrise and sunset with respect to the coordinate information, real-time information of weather condition, real-time information of date and time, and information of seasonal changes.
[00014] In an embodiment, the microcontroller may be configured to generate a control signal based on the data fetched from the database, and where the microcontroller is configured to transmit the control signal to the control module for controlling the lighting apparatus.
[00015] In an embodiment, the microcontroller may be configured to determine that a value of the data is within a first predefined range. Further, in response to determining that the value of the data is within the first predefined range, the microcontroller may enable the control module to activate the lighting apparatus.
[00016] In an embodiment, the microcontroller may be configured to determine that the value of the data is within a second predefined range. Further, in response to determining that the value of the data is within the second predefined range, the microcontroller may disable the control module to deactivate the lighting apparatus.
[00017] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a method for automatically controlling a lighting apparatus. The method includes generating, by one or more photovoltaic panels associated with the system, electrical power, where the one or more photovoltaic panels are connected in series and generating, by one or more dual-channel thermoelectric modules associated with the system, the electrical power where the one or more dual-channel thermoelectric modules comprise wound coils configured to facilitate the generation of the electrical power. Further, the method includes regulating, by a regulator associated with the system, the electrical power from the one or more photovoltaic panels and the one or more dual-channel thermoelectric modules and receiving, by a battery associated with the system, the electrical power from the regulator. Further, the method includes transmitting, by a control module associated with the system, the electrical power from the battery to the lighting apparatus and fetching, by a microcontroller associated with the system, data from a database using a communication module associated with the system. Further, the method includes automatically controlling, by the microcontroller, the lighting apparatus based on the data.
[00018] In an embodiment, the method may include generating, by the microcontroller, a control signal based on the data fetched from the database and transmitting, by the microcontroller, the control signal to the control module for controlling the lighting apparatus.
[00019] Various objects, features, aspects, and advantages of the inventive subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent components.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[00020] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure.
[00021] FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic representation of an example system for automatically controlling a lighting apparatus, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[00022] FIG. 2 illustrates a flow chart of an example method for automatically controlling the lighting apparatus, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[00023] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure depicted in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments are in such detail as to clearly communicate the disclosure. However, the amount of detail offered is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present disclosures as defined by the appended claims.
[00024] Non-renewable energy sources are depleting rapidly and contributing to global warming. Thermoelectric energy provides a stable solution for energy generation. Both the generation and distribution of thermoelectric energy provide cost efficiency and time savings. In major cities and rural areas, effective energy management is crucial for mitigating global warming. A significant portion of public energy consumption is attributed to streetlights, highlighting poor energy management in street lighting and resulting in energy loss. Internet of Things (IoT)-based smart streetlight automation utilizing thermoelectric transducers addresses the issue by automating the switching ON and OFF of the streetlights based on real-time sunrise and sunset timings, which vary by location and can be derived from latitude and longitude data. Additionally, the present disclosure conserves energy and enhances the operational efficiency of the street lights.
[00025] Embodiments explained herein relate to the field of lighting system. In particular, the present disclosure provides a system and a method for automatically controlling a lighting apparatus using the IoT to enable energy efficiency and lower maintenance by operating in real-time based on specific location data.
[00026] The terms "thermoelectric transducers," "solar panels," and "photovoltaic panels" are interchangeably mentioned throughout the specification.
[00027] The terms "Peltier modules" and "thermoelectric modules" are interchangeably mentioned throughout the specification.
[00028] Various embodiments with respect to the present disclosure will be explained in detail with reference to FIGs. 1 and 2.
[00029] FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic representation of an example system (100) for automatically controlling a lighting apparatus (112), in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[00030] Referring to FIG. 1, the system (100) may include photovoltaic panels (102-1 to 102-N), dual-channel thermoelectric modules (104-1 to 104-N), a regulator (106), a battery (108), a control module (110), a microcontroller (114), and a communication module (116). In an embodiment, the photovoltaic panels (102-1 to 102-N) may be connected in series and the photovoltaic panels (102-1 to 102-N) may be configured to generate electrical power. In an embodiment, the dual-channel thermoelectric modules (104-1 to 104-N) may be configured to generate the electrical power. In an embodiment, the dual-channel thermoelectric modules (104-1 to 104-N) may include wound coils that may be configured to facilitate the generation of the electrical power. In an embodiment, the regulator (106) may be connected to the photovoltaic panels (102-1 to 102-N) and the dual-channel thermoelectric modules (104-1 to 104-N). In an embodiment, the regulator (106) may be configured to regulate the electrical power. In an embodiment, the battery (108) may be connected to the regulator (106). In an embodiment, the battery (108) may be configured to store the electrical power received from the regulator (106). In an embodiment, the regulator (106) may be configured to convert the electrical power with respect to parameters of the battery (108).
[00031] In an embodiment, the parameters may include, but not limited to a State of Charge (SOC) of the battery (108), a voltage level of the battery (108), a temperature value of the battery (108), a charging and discharging rate of the battery (108), and a health status of the battery (108). In an embodiment, the control module (110) may be connected to the battery (108). In an embodiment, the control module (110) may be configured to transmit the electrical power from the battery (108) to the lighting apparatus (112). In an embodiment, the microcontroller (114) may be connected to the communication module (116). In an embodiment, the microcontroller (114) may be configured to fetch data from a database through an Application Programming Interface (API) using the communication module (116). In an embodiment, the microcontroller (114) may be configured to automatically control the lighting apparatus (112) based on the data using the control module (110).
[00032] In an embodiment, the microcontroller (114) may be configured to transmit a request message to the database for fetching the data. In an embodiment, the data may include, but not limited to coordinate information of latitude and longitude corresponding to an identity of the system (100), historical timing information of sunrise and sunset with respect to the coordinate information, real-time information of weather condition, real-time information of date and time, and information of seasonal changes.
[00033] In an embodiment, the microcontroller (114) may be configured to generate a control signal based on the data fetched from the database. In an embodiment, the microcontroller (114) may be configured to transmit the control signal to the control module (110) for controlling the lighting apparatus (112). In an embodiment, the microcontroller (114) may be configured to determine whether a value of the data is within a first predefined range or not. If the value of the data is within the first predefined range, the microcontroller (114) may enable the control module (110) to activate the lighting apparatus (112). If the value of the data is within a second predefined range, the microcontroller (114) may disable the control module (110) to deactivate the lighting apparatus (112).
[00034] For example, when the data (e.g., time data) indicates a period between 30 minutes before and 30 minutes after sunset, which represents low-light conditions (e.g., the first predefined range), the microcontroller (114) may enable the control module (110) to activate the lighting apparatus (112). Similarly, if the data (e.g., the time data) corresponds to a period between 30 minutes after sunrise and 30 minutes before sunset, which represents natural light conditions (e.g., the second predefined range), the microcontroller (114) may disable the control module (110) to deactivate the lighting apparatus (112). Additionally, the microcontroller (114) may adjust lighting based on specific environmental conditions by considering weather data. During low visibility conditions (e.g., the first predefined range), such as cloud cover or storm warnings, the microcontroller (114) may activate lighting for adverse weather. During on clear days with standard daylight conditions (e.g., the second predefined range), the microcontroller (114) may disable the control module (110) to conserve energy, ensuring efficient and adaptive lighting control.
[00035] In exemplary embodiments, thermoelectric transducers (e.g., 102-1 to 102-N) may be designed to convert sunlight, or heat energy, into electricity efficiently. By configured in series, the thermoelectric transducers may achieve a combined output of 12 Volts (V) with a maximum power of 1.2 Watts (W). Integrated photovoltaic cells within the thermoelectric transducers absorb sunlight, generating electrical current to power connected components. In exemplary embodiments, a protective layer may be added to enhance the durability and longevity of the solar panels, ensuring consistent performance in various environmental conditions.
[00036] In exemplary embodiments, the dual-channel thermoelectric modules (104-1 to 104-N) may generate electrical power through Peltier effect. Sequentially wound coils facilitate heat transfer within the dual-channel thermoelectric module, where heat moves from the hot side to the cool side, producing electricity (e.g., the electrical power). Configured in series, these modules achieve a voltage of 12V with a maximum power output of 0.96W. Efficient heat dissipation may be managed through heat sinks and a 12V Direct Current (DC) fan to maintain optimal performance.
[00037] In exemplary embodiments, the voltage regulator (e.g., the regulator (106)), or buck converter, stabilizes and regulates the combined voltage output from the solar panels and the Peltier modules. The output voltage may be adjusted using an integrated potentiometer and connected to a battery (108) for energy storage. In exemplary embodiments, the microcontroller (114) with a 5V relay may handle connectivity and automation. In exemplary embodiments, by configuring the system (100) with Service Set Identifier (SSID) (e.g., the identity) and password, the microcontroller (114) may connects to the internet via Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) (e.g., the communication module (116)), obtaining real-time sunrise and sunset timings from online sources. Based on the timing data, the microcontroller (114) may activate or deactivate the relay, controlling streetlight operation in alignment with natural light conditions.
[00038] In exemplary embodiments, a software interface and relay (e.g., the control module (110)) may be provided by the battery (108), ensuring uninterrupted operation. In exemplary embodiments, firmware may support the Wi-Fi connectivity and communication protocols, enabling real-time data fetch and processing from online APIs. By controlling the relay in line with the received timing data, the firmware may automate streetlight activation and deactivation. In exemplary embodiments, the firmware or a control mechanism within the voltage regulator (106) may adjust the buck converter (e.g., the regulator (106)) output voltage, using the potentiometer to fine-tune battery (108) charging for consistent and reliable power management.
[00039] In exemplary embodiments, an integration of the solar panels and the Peltier modules in a parallel configuration enhances both energy efficiency and reliability. The integration setup may support continuous energy generation by leveraging both sunlight for heat and ambient thermal energy. Further, the microcontroller (114) may enable advanced automation by utilizing internet connectivity to access real-time data, such as sunrise and sunset times, which directly controls streetlight operation. Relying on precise timing data specific to the installation location, the system (100) may synchronize streetlight functions with natural lighting conditions. The automation may improve operational efficiency and reduce the need for manual adjustments, highlighting the use of live environmental data to optimize energy consumption and system management.
[00040] In exemplary embodiments, the system (100) has valuable commercial applications. In an embodiment, smart street lighting systems (e.g., the system 100) may adapt to real-time lighting conditions, serving as a cost-effective and sustainable alternative to traditional, grid-reliant lighting systems in urban and rural areas. Further, the setup may provide reliable off-grid energy solutions ideal for remote or inaccessible locations lacking traditional power infrastructure, ensuring consistent operation for critical systems without reliance on external power sources. Further, environmental monitoring systems may support autonomous power for sustained data collection and transmission in remote stations and sensor networks, increasing reliability and reducing costs associated with remote power maintenance.
[00041] In exemplary embodiments, the system (100) may have the ability to adapt to varying weather conditions and enhanced efficiency contributing to a reduced environmental footprint. Moreover, the potential of the system (100) to integrate with security features, such as motion detection and real-time image capturing, provides an added layer for the system (100).
[00042] Therefore, the system (100) may reduce the need for frequent maintenance and the Peltier module with coiled heat transfer specifically contributes to a longer operational lifespan, as the Peltier module manages thermal conditions more effectively, thereby lowering operational costs and ensuring that the streetlight remains functional in diverse weather conditions. Additionally, the adaptability of the system (100) to weather conditions, combined with potential security integrations, highlights substantial advancements in functionality and environmental impact.
[00043] Additionally, the system (100) may provide efficient street light management through the integration of thermoelectric transducers (e.g., 102-1 to 102-N) and IoT technology, delivering substantial energy savings. Solar energy is harnessed by photovoltaic panels, while a Peltier module (e.g., 104-1 to 104-N) generates additional power by converting temperature differentials. Each streetlight operates independently, drawing reliable power from these sources. The system (100) may automate lighting control using real-time sunrise and sunset data, which is calculated based on geographic latitude and longitude, enabling precise, location-specific switching that conserves energy and reduces costs.
[00044] A compact design and streamlined IoT-based control enhance efficiency, lowering the need for maintenance by minimizing moving parts and relying on data-driven control over physical sensors. The system (100) architecture is cost-effective and easy to maintain, further benefiting from reduced vulnerability to environmental fluctuations such as weather changes. The use of renewable energy sources significantly reduces the carbon footprint associated with street lighting, promoting sustainability.
[00045] With a scalable architecture, the system (100) can integrate additional sensors and modules, enhancing adaptability. Efficient energy management is achieved through automated real-time adjustments, which rely on minimal local data storage and provide basic security for local operations. The design prioritizes long-term cost savings through energy-efficient operation, reduced maintenance requirements, and robust management using location-based data for continuous optimization.
[00046] FIG. 2 illustrates a flow chart of an example method for automatically controlling a lighting apparatus (e.g., 112 as represented in FIG. 1), in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[00047] Referring to FIG. 2, at (202), the method may include generating, by one or more photovoltaic panels (e.g., 102-1 to 102-N) associated with a system (e.g., 100 as represented in FIG. 1), electrical power, where the one or more photovoltaic panels (102-1 to 102-N as represented in FIG. 1) are connected in series. At (204), the method may include generating, by one or more dual-channel thermoelectric modules (e.g., 104-1 to 104-N as represented in FIG. 1) associated with the system (100), the electrical power, where the one or more dual-channel thermoelectric modules (104-1 to 104-N) may include wound coils configured to facilitate the generation of the electrical power. At (206), the method may include regulating, by a regulator (e.g., 106 as represented in FIG. 1) associated with the system (100), the electrical power received from the one or more photovoltaic panels (102-1 to 102-N) and the one or more dual-channel thermoelectric modules (104-1 to 104-N). At (208), the method may include receiving, by a battery (e.g., 108 as represented in FIG. 1) associated with the system (100), the electrical power from the regulator (106). At (210), the method may include transmitting, by a control module (e.g., 110 as represented in FIG. 1) associated with the system (100) the electrical power from the battery (108) to the lighting apparatus (112). At (212), the method may include fetching, by a microcontroller (e.g., 114 as represented in FIG. 1) associated with the system (100), data from a database using a communication module (e.g., 116 as represented in FIG. 1). At (214), the method may include automatically controlling, by the microcontroller (114), the lighting apparatus (112) based on the data. In an embodiment, the method may include generating, by the microcontroller (114), a control signal based on the data fetched from the database and transmitting, by the microcontroller (114), the control signal to the control module (110) for controlling the lighting apparatus (112).
[00048] While the foregoing describes various embodiments of the disclosure, other and further embodiments of the invention may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof. The scope of the disclosure is determined by the claims that follow. The disclosure is not limited to the described embodiments, versions, or examples, which are included to enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the disclosure when combined with information and knowledge available to the person having ordinary skill in the art.

ADVANTAGES OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE
[00049] The present disclosure integrates solar panels and Peltier modules to maximize energy generation across varying environmental conditions, including sunlight and ambient heat. The combination results in a continuous energy supply, as both sources work together to ensure more consistent energy production compared to relying solely on solar or thermoelectric sources individually
[00050] The present disclosure provides Internet of Things (IoT)-based relay that enhances accurate streetlight control by utilizing precise sunrise and sunset times, thereby improving reliability compared to traditional Light-Dependent Resistor (LDR) systems.
[00051] The present disclosure reduces maintenance efforts and costs commonly associated with traditional LDR-based systems by minimizing sensitivity to ambient light changes.
[00052] The present disclosure is utilized in the field of smart street lighting, environmental monitoring stations, and off-grid installations.
[00053] The present disclosure optimizes streetlight operation and contributes to significant reductions in energy consumption and maintenance costs.
[00054] The present disclosure extends operational lifespan and reduces maintenance needs.
 
, Claims:1. A system (100) for automatically controlling a lighting apparatus (112), comprising:
one or more photovoltaic panels (102-1 to 102-N) connected in series, wherein the one or more photovoltaic panels (102-1 to 102-N) are configured to generate electrical power;
one or more dual-channel thermoelectric modules (104-1 to 104-N) comprising wound coils configured to facilitate the generation of the electrical power;
a regulator (106) connected to the one or more photovoltaic panels (102-1 to 102-N) and the one or more dual-channel thermoelectric modules (104-1 to 104-N), wherein the regulator (106) is configured to regulate the electrical power;
a battery (108) connected to the regulator (106), wherein the battery (108) is configured to store the electrical power received from the regulator (106);
a control module (110) connected to the battery (108), wherein the control module (110) is configured to transmit the electrical power from the battery (108) to the lighting apparatus (112); and
a microcontroller (114) connected to a communication module (116) associated with the system (100), wherein the microcontroller (114) is configured to fetch data from a database using the communication module (116), and wherein the microcontroller (114), using the control module (110), is configured to automatically control the lighting apparatus (112) based on the data.
2. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the regulator (106) is configured to covert the electrical power with respect to one or more parameters of the battery (108) associated with the system (100).
3. The system (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the one or more parameters comprise: a State of Charge (SOC) of the battery (108), a voltage level of the battery (108), a temperature value of the battery (108), a charging and discharging rate of the battery (108), and a health status of the battery (108).
4. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the microcontroller (114) is configured to transmit a request message to the database for fetching the data.
5. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the data comprises at least one of: coordinate information of latitude and longitude corresponding to an identity of the system (100), historical timing information of sunrise and sunset with respect to the coordinate information, real-time information of weather condition, real-time information of date and time, and information of seasonal changes.
6. The system (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the microcontroller (114) is configured to generate a control signal based on the data fetched from the database, and wherein the microcontroller (114) is configured to transmit the control signal to the control module (110) for controlling the lighting apparatus (112).
7. The system (100) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the microcontroller (114) is configured to:
determine that a value of the data is within a first predefined range; and
in response to determining that the value of the data is within the first predefined range, enable the control module (110) to activate the lighting apparatus (112).
8. The system (100) as claimed in claim 7, wherein the microcontroller (114) is configured to:
determine that the value of the data is within a second predefined range; and
in response to determining that the value of the data is within the second predefined range, disable the control module (110) to deactivate the lighting apparatus (112).
9. A method for automatically controlling a lighting apparatus (112), comprising:
generating, by one or more photovoltaic panels (102-1 to 102-N) associated with a system (100), electrical power, wherein the one or more photovoltaic panels (102-1 to 102-N) are connected in series;
generating, by one or more dual-channel thermoelectric modules (104-1 to 104-N) associated with the system (100), the electrical power, wherein the one or more dual-channel thermoelectric modules (104-1 to 104-N) comprise wound coils configured to facilitate the generation of the electrical power;
regulating, by a regulator (106) associated with the system (100), the electrical power received from the one or more photovoltaic panels (102-1 to 102-N) and the one or more dual-channel thermoelectric modules (104-1 to 104-N);
receiving, by a battery (108) associated with the system (100), the electrical power from the regulator (106);
transmitting, by a control module (110) associated with the system (100), the electrical power from the battery (108) to the lighting apparatus (112);
fetching, by a microcontroller (114) associated with the system (100), data from a database using a communication module (116) associated with the system (100); and
automatically controlling, by the microcontroller (114), the lighting apparatus (112) based on the data.
10. The method as claimed in claim 9, comprising:
generating, by the microcontroller (114), a control signal based on the data fetched from the database; and
transmitting, by the microcontroller (114), the control signal to the control module (110) for controlling the lighting apparatus (112).

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