Working in partnership with lighting sensor and control manufacturers and PG&E, CLTC will develop a next-generation exterior occupancy sensor capable of reliable operation in a variety of exterior applications not currently serviced by existing products. This includes applications with high mounting height requirements, broad coverage zones, and areas with diverse traffic flows.
The project consists of three main tasks:
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Task 1 – Market Survey and Performance Specification by Application
CLTC will acquire all available exterior occupancy sensors and compare the products in terms of cost and performance, based on manufacturers’ claims. CLTC will also identify primary outdoor applications that would benefit from occupancy sensors and controls not currently available then develop sensor specifications based on each application’s unique requirements. Variances that affect sensor performance requirements may include mounting height, traffic volume, coverage area, obstructions, and sources of environmental interference (e.g., wildlife and weather conditions such as extreme temperatures, high winds, rain, fog, snow, hail, etc.). -
Task 2 - Sensor Development
CLTC researchers will develop initial sensor concepts that address the performance gaps identified through the first phase of the project (Task 1). CLTC will then construct prototypes based on these design concepts, collaborating with its manufacturing partners, as needed. CLTC will also conduct preliminary lab tests on the prototype sensors prior to field deployment and evaluation. This process will require updating best-practice protocols for testing exterior sensors beyond WD7 (2011), so they can be applied to newer and more advanced sensing technologies, such as video systems with intelligent form and motion pattern recognition. -
Task 3 - Pilot Installation and Evaluation
CLTC will install the exterior occupancy sensor prototypes along with a selection of commercially available sensors identified during the project’s first phase. The demonstration team will then assess the performance of the prototypes and the other sensors and compare their performance, based on data and measurements gathered during field testing.
The sensor technology developed and made commercially available through this project will enable broader deployment of adaptive exterior luminaires, and it will ensure that these adaptive luminaires are capable of delivering accurate and reliable light level adjustments based on occupancy. Project outcomes are meant to help prepare more facilities for compliance with future, enhanced codes and standards, in keeping with state and national energy goals.
Principal Investigator: Michael Siminovitch