How to Design a Traffic Light with a DC Power Supply (2024)

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In summary, a traffic light with a digital logic circuit will be controlled by a power supply obtained from a 240V AC (50 Hz) mains source with a short circuit current of 200mA.

  • #1

Shahil

117
19

Hi guys!

I need to design and build a traffic light with an accompanying DC power supply. The DC power supply must be a 5V source obtained from a 240V AC (50 Hz) mains source with a short circuit current of 200mA. This will be used to drive a digital logic circuit controlling the traffic lights.

The traffic light intersection is a 4-way intersection with timings as follows

Daytime
N-S
Red 16 sec
Green 12 sec
Amber 04 sec
W-E
Green 12 sec
Amber 04 sec
Red 16 sec

Nightime
N-S
Red 16 sec
Green 40 sec
Amber 04 sec
W-E
Green 12 sec
Amber 04 sec
Red 44 sec

Also-no programmable ICs (except op-amps) can be used.

I do have some ideas (for the digital part mostly - I'll put up a schematic of the circuit as soon as I draw it in Paint!) but the power supply is giving me some problems - I'm not too educated on the current regulation bit. Can anybody gimme some pointers please??

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  • #2

Surely you made a typo with 240V. I'd make a DC power supply from 120V, 60Hz (USA) AC strictly on the basis of safety. Can't you just buy a 5 V DC power supply or do you need to build that too? They're not difficult to build but I'm saying that only on the basis of doing so with 120V NOT 240V Ok?

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  • #3

Shahil

117
19

No typo - specs say 240V 50Hz so that's why I can't buy one! How to Design a Traffic Light with a DC Power Supply (1)

I'll post a pic of what I've got in mind in a bit (MSPaint again...)

  • #4

Shahil

117
19

Power Supply circuit (so far)

Here's a diag. of the power supply I got so far. Problem is it's O/P is 12V not 5V (which is a bit of a problem). The diag. is from Protel and it ain't simulating but it ain't simulating! Circuit does work though I'm sure! Also - will the circuit regulate the O/C current to 200mA? Help anyone??

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1. How does a traffic light work?

A traffic light works by using a combination of sensors, timers, and lights to regulate the flow of traffic at an intersection. The traffic light uses sensors to detect the presence of vehicles and pedestrians, and then uses timers to regulate the duration of each light cycle.

2. What materials are needed to build a traffic light?

The materials needed to build a traffic light include lights (typically LED), sensors, timers, wiring, a control box, and a pole or structure to mount the lights on. The specific materials may vary depending on the type and design of the traffic light.

3. How long does it take to build a traffic light?

The time it takes to build a traffic light can vary depending on the complexity and size of the project. In general, it can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to build a traffic light, including installation and testing.

4. How often do traffic lights need to be maintained?

Traffic lights need to be regularly maintained to ensure they are functioning properly and safely. This can include replacing lights, cleaning and adjusting sensors, and repairing any damaged components. The frequency of maintenance may vary, but it is typically done at least once a year.

5. Can traffic lights be controlled remotely?

Yes, some traffic lights can be controlled remotely through a central control system. This allows for more efficient management of traffic flow and can also be used for emergency situations. However, most traffic lights are still operated locally by sensors and timers.

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