Patent ID: 6144161
Filing Date: 2000-11-07
Classification: H05B,Y02B,Y10S

Abstract:
A microcomputer controlled photocell system for use in controlling the operation of a load device comprising:a photocell producing electrical signals varying with the intensity of ambient light sensed thereby;a microcomputer connected to receive and sample electrical signals from said photocell at predetermined intervals including a clock, counter means for counting said sampled signals and switching means responsive to predetermined counts of said counter for switching said load device on and off;wherein said microcomputer samples ambient light values sensed by said photocell a plurality of times per minute and establishes a night reference light value after sensing minimum light values for over a predetermined cycle time; andafter a night reference light value is established, the microcomputer continues to sample light values and responds to a substantial number of continuously increasing light values to switch said load device off and after a predetermined additional number of continuously increasing light values establishes and stores a sunset detect light value whereby diminishing light values near sunset are monitored and when said sunset detect light value is reached, said computer acts to switch said load device on.