Overview / Usage

The ambient light detecting design features a TI OPT3001 digital ambient light sensor with high precision human eye response. This assures an accurate representation of ambient light and avoids manual adjustments.

Light patterns are tracked and analysed by a Dell IoT edge gateway that may forward telecommands to a home's lighting system or notify occupants who may be away or sleeping.

Energy may be conserved and intruders may be kept away.

Sensing ambient light levels in a home or office leads to vision health, productive work, comfortable living, convenience, less energy waste, and possibly lower crime.

The Curie MCU can leverage Intel Quark SE sleep to run for years on a litheum battery. An Intel Innovator makes a subgigaherz PCB connected to the TinyTILE's UART to send telemetry to a IP connected Dell IoT gateway.

The cross transport (subgig wave to short range) communication as well as robust SNR (thick wall radio penetration) and low power (milliwatt) transmission showcases technology only recently available.

Value is added with a energy harvesting circuit. The device features an array of IXYS IXOLAR components storing electrical charge in a matrix of capacitors. This design fully powers the device for eterntity!

It's a very unique feature that appeals widely with user friendly maintenance free application. It means that the device can be placed in very high or hard to reach corners with no fear of downtime.

Just as holding hands under a automatic faucet becomes second nature, semiautonomous home lighting yields both comfort and conserves energy.

The total cost of device parts and manufacturing totals less than $40, allowing for widespread use and fulfilling a key role in the ubiquitous nature of the Internet of Things.

What is the call to action:

Consider better use of light energy in buildings of all kinds, as well as added value of burglar deterrence when occupants are away. The design can be used in museums and sports venues with little modification.