DALI (Digital Addressable Lighting Interface) is a two-wire digital protocol for controlling up to 64 devices per bus, scalable to thousands. It uses simple cabling with flexible topology and supports two-way communication for control and status monitoring. Its limitations include command delay preventing dynamic effects and the need for a gateway for smart home integration. Evolving standards include DALI-2 for human-centric lighting and DALI+ for IP-based control.
Smart lighting uses digital protocols for automated control, enabling features like individual fixture addressing, light scenes, and two-way communication for status monitoring. It integrates with smart home systems via protocol converters. Benefits include enhanced comfort through predictive lighting and biodynamic cycles, increased energy efficiency, and new functionalities like voice control and AI-driven automation that learns user habits.
Analog protocols 0-10V and 1-10V, developed in the 1970s, are still used for dimming LED and fluorescent lights. 0-10V uses 0V for off and 10V for 100% brightness. 1-10V uses 1V for minimum dimming and 10V for maximum, requiring a separate switch for power. While signal degradation limits long-distance use, their low cost makes them prevalent in hybrid systems and for street lighting via standardized connectors.
LEDs enable efficient automatic lighting control since their lifespan is unaffected by frequent switching. Simple systems include photo relays reacting to ambient light, acoustic sensors activated by noise, and motion sensors detecting movement through infrared or microwave technology. Each option has cost, accuracy, and use-specific advantages and limitations.
Human-Centric Lighting (HCL) mimics natural light variations throughout the day to enhance productivity, reduce errors, and improve health. It adjusts light output and color temperature based on specific programs. Two approaches exist: one mimics sunrise and sunset, and the other aligns with the workday. Implemented via tunable LED fixtures and controlled by protocols like DALI-2, HCL can use cloud or local systems, applicable in various environments.
