Remotely Controllable Regulator Connected in Series with Resistive and Inductive Loads

Abstract

This work presents a simple design and implementation of a series connected remotely controllable regulator which can be used for both resistive and inductive type loads driven by AC power. Commonly available remote controlled regulators require access to both live and neutral connections. The designed regulator enables the single line power controlling which offers a high level of convenience to the user. The power supplied to the load is controlled by a Triac, because it can control the current flow over both halves of an alternating cycle. The trigger on the gate terminal is set by a diac. The active components of the regulator are powered by a Switch Mode Power Supply (SMPS) using the voltage drop across the Triac. Radio Frequency (RF) remote control module controls the device and improved user satisfaction at a much better range. RF does not require the typical IR point-and-shoot action. The regulator includes a timer which enables the user to control both the level and the period of power. A seven segment display unit is included in the design to indicate the supplied power level and the timersetting. PICmicro® 16F873 microcontroller is used to drive the system and the timer. When compared with remote controlled regulators which require alternative additional electrical wiring system, the designed regulator is much more user friendly. It has many advantages such as low power consumption, small in size and low manufacturing cost and etc.