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Astronomical clock: control public lighting efficiently
The astronomical clock is a key tool for local authorities, automatically controlling public lighting according to the natural cycles of the sun. A precise clock, such as those from BH Technologies, reduces energy costs, improves service quality and makes interventions safer, while offering real energy efficiency benefits. This guide explains how it works, its advantages and best practices for integrating it into your fleet.
What is an astronomical clock and what is it used for?
Unlike a conventional programmable clock, an astronomical clock does not rely on a simple timer. It calculates automatically the times of sunrise and sunset based on the municipality’s latitude and longitude. This ensures optimal activation of public lighting, with no seasonal offset.
The benefits are immediate:
- Energy savings thanks to adjusted lighting duration.
- Fewer reprogramming interventions.
- Improved night-time safety for residents.
Astronomical clock: how does the automatic control system work?
Understanding the mechanism step by step
An astronomical clock adjusts the lighting switch-on and switch-off times according to sunrise and sunset.
It takes into account:
- latitude and longitude,
- seasonal variations,
- the number of people visiting the place,
- possibly custom rules for specific events or areas.
The advantages of autopilot
Autopilot enables:
- to reduce energy consumption,
- to avoid unnecessary manual interventions,
- to ensure consistent and reliable lighting throughout the year.
This gives local authorities greater operational efficiency and peace of mind.
Innovations in BH Technologies astronomical clocks
Astronomical precision and proven reliability
The astronomical clocks BH Technologies’ devices use a highly precise, proprietary astronomical calculation algorithm. They automatically synchronize with legal time (daylight saving time changes) and adjust switching schedules down to the minute. Their design is based on high-durability industrial components, ensuring a lifespan of over ten years with no significant drift. Each device is individually tested at the factory to guarantee maximum reliability, even under extreme conditions (–25 °C to +55 °C).
Full IoT connectivity and integration
Unlike the majority of competing time switches, BH Technologies’ models can be integrated into a complete IoT ecosystem. Thanks to their compatibility with Luce, they enable remote control and real-time remote management. Settings can be updated via networks such as Lorawan, GSM or LTE-M, without any on-site intervention. This bidirectional connectivity simplifies maintenance and provides a complete overview of the lighting network.
An easy-to-install astronomical clock
BH Technologies’ astronomical clocks are designed to be ergonomic and quick to install. Commissioning takes only a few minutes, and the time switch instantly calculates the schedules.
Tangible benefits thanks to astronomical clocks
Adaptation to local needs
Municipalities can adjust lighting according to:
- traffic in the areas,
- temporary events,
- road and pedestrian safety.
Cost reduction and energy savings
A well-calibrated astronomical clock can reduce electricity consumption for public lighting by up to 20–40%.
Interventions are less frequent because schedules are adjusted automatically.
Move on to fleet supervision with connected astronomical clocks
Integration with remote management platforms enables:
- to programme public lighting throughout the year,
- manage exceptional programmes,
- to anticipate interventions,
- generate consumption and performance reports,
- to extend the service life of the luminaires.
For instance: Radiolite 4XX enables fleet monitoring via Luce when connected to the monitoring module BH Gate.
Astronomical clocks are a lever for efficiency for local authorities
The astronomical clock transforms street lighting into a smart and economical tool.
It enables local authorities to reduce costs, optimise management and secure maintenance.
With a well-planned rollout, the community moves from manual, reactive management to proactive, accurate and sustainable management.
Contact us for a demo of our astronomical clocks.
