http://www.epn-online.com/enCopyright 2007 - Reed Business InformationMon, 04 Jun 2012 09:31:06 +0200Mon, 04 Jun 2012 09:31:06 +0200EPN Onlinelchevalier@reedbusiness.frlchevalier@reedbusiness.frhttp://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rsshttp://www.epn-online.com/page/new187683/let-there-be-energy-efficient-light.htmlnew187683Using automated lighting in the home or office buildings can reduce consumption by up to 50%, and the savings can be even more dramatic in warehouses and industrial plants. Not surprisingly, the global market for intelligent lighting control is set for very strong growth, doubling to $2.6 billion by 2016 according to market intelligence firm Pike Research. Key components for lighting systems include relays, switches and sensors, which are required throughout the lighting system; from lamp ballasts and drivers, through switching modules to presence detectors. Coping with inrush currentsThe high in-rush currents and long lifetimes of lighting installations pose new challenges for switch and sensor makers. Switching fluorescent lamps need to handle the high peak of current when a lamp turns on. Capacitive loads are even more critical. A capacitor connected in parallel with a lamp driver is a common circuit configuration and the peak of current generated from its discharge can easily exceed 10 to 15 times the rated current. Designing-in the wrong relay can drastically reduce the life of the system. Relay manufacturers are rising to the challenge with innovations such as advanced materials for contacts. Omron, for example, uses a Silver-Indium-Tin alloy, which is extremely hard, has a high melting point, and exhibits excellent resistance to arcing and welding, making it ideal for high inrush loads. A further advantage is that the alloy is cadmium-free so meets RoHS requirements.These AgInSn contacts enable relays, depending on the models, to handle up to 100A inrush current, even for fluorescent or tungsten lamps. A 16A relay is suitable for all types of lamps available in the market, from fluorescent to LEDs, though lower-capacity relays can be specified for some lighting applications.Smaller and quieter relaysThe use of LEDs is spreading, driven by legislation as well as energy costs. With such power-saving lamps there is less need for 16A capability. These lighting control systems can take advantage of the size-reduction innovations that come with lower power consumption. Compact and slimline relays are especially useful in the switching modules used to control LED lights. For example, the 6,5mm devices like the G6D-ASI 5A relay, using a a Silver-Indium-Tin alloy contact, save space and costs.Relays are getting quieter as well as smaller. Removing a major source of distraction that can arise after lighting control has been installed. The patented silent mechanisms of the 16A low profile G5RL-LN relay can reduce switching noise by more than 10dB, making the sound of releasing the relay all-but inaudible. It is not only power relays that are used in ballasts and light system management. DIP switches are commonly needed to set the function of each device in the module, and these have to be dependable as well as cater for the latest automated production methods. Even with these simple components there is scope for innovation. For instance, the A6SN and A6TN DIP switches, SMD and through-hole mounting type, have high pressure, knife-edge, internal mechanics and the company promises more reliable and consistent contact operation. DIP switches also make use of a temperature resistant resin that enables reflow soldering at peak temperatures of up to 260°C- even 400°C with manual soldering. Keep moving - or the lights go outSome of the greatest benefits of lighting automation come from being able to switch lights on or off when required. Sensors activate a system if a person is in a room. Pyroelectric and microwave are the traditional technologies, but these are passive and only detect people while they are moving. Lights can switch off even if the room is occupied with people.The technology of micro machines is being harnessed to counter this. An infra-red MEMS sensor monitors the temperature of a room. Measuring areas that are warmer than the ambient surroundings, it can detect the presence of a person. The company's IR MEMS sensor will initially be available in two detection cell configurations: eight detecting cells in a row, or a 4x4 matrix.A typical installation involves multiple IR sensors, not only to distinguish an empty room from an occupied one, but also to gain an indication of where the person is in the room. For example, a ceiling mounted central sensor unit would typically have four of the 4x4 detectors, each being able to locate a person within a 2.5m square section of the room.Products that deliver advantages to lighting control equipment are helping OEMs to achieve more efficient control, reduce costs and space in products, and contribute to lower energy consumption.Figure 1: Quiet in the workplace. The patented silent mechanisms of G5RL-LN relay can reduce switching noise by more than 10dB.Figure 2: The A6SN's high pressure internal mechanics give reliable, consistent contact operation.Figure 3 and Figure 4: These Marl International Titan LED downlights in the offices of Morguard Properties, Ontario, save Canadian $1600 a year just for these 30 lamps.(Burton Lighting Network; interior designer Therese Gould)Mon, 28 May 2012 00:00:00 +0200