Basic 12 LED Array Control

Projects General Guidance
1

Hi, I'm working on a project that I'm trying to figure out within the next couple weeks. I'm a beginner, have some small programming experience in the past with C/C++, and a generalized sense about working with electronics. Otherwise assume I'm new to programming with this.

I'm wanting to build a sort of platform (probably out of wood) with 12 basic 5 watt LED bulbs arrayed like a clock circle. It will big enough to stand on, maybe 4-5 feet wide.

I want to connect 24 (hot and neutral) or 36 (hot neutral ground) wires to 12 relays, which would be controlled by arduino, which would control 12 LED fixtures. The power would come from 120v wall sockets/wires, into a junction box, from which I would output the power. I have basic professional electrical experience and know how to safely handle 120v wire in a circuit of this size.

I'm hoping there is a relatively basic way I can control the LEDS and make them individually turn on and off in a pre-programmed fashion through the relays.

I haven't purchased the Arduino or built any of this yet, so I'm in the planning stage. Any links/general advice/code/direction would be helpful! I'm guessing a Arduino Uno would be sufficient for this project or others similar?

Thanks!

12 led control idea1
12 led control idea12048×1536 195 KB

2

Conecting 24, or 36, output devices, a Mega sounds like a good choice. It has 54 input/output pins.
Know that the relay coils consume power, needs some current.
One suggestion is to use 12 volt relay modules recieving their power from a 12 volt power supply.
Connect all GND's and let the Mega control the modules.

3

Sounds like a fun project. Take a look at solid state relays, they can be gotten with zero cross which will keep the power lines clean and can be driven directly from an Arduino. They are also quiet. Something like this picture. Try just one first with one of the lamps, they have a bias network on the AC side that may cause your LED lamp to glow. Relays will not have that problem.
image

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//relays are LOW active
#define Lamp_On(b) digitalWrite(pinArray[b],LOW)
#define LampOff(b) digitalWrite(pinArray[b],HIGH)

const byte pinArray[] = { 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, A0 }; //don't use pin 13 on uno, nano, mega
const byte count = 12;

void setup(){
  for (int i = 0; i < count; i++)  {
    digitalWrite(pinArray[i], OFF);
    pinMode(pinArray[i], OUTPUT);
  }
}

void loop(){
  for (int i = 0; i < count; i++)  {
    Lamp_On(i);
    delay(1000);
    LampOff(i);
  }
}

grafik
grafik1034×603 77.5 KB

5

an UNO can drive the requested 12 separate pins.
You mentioned you will place the lamps in a circle.
What logic do you have in mind to switch on/off each single lamp?

6

Hi dojamarsenal,

Sounds like a cool project! Using an Arduino and relays is a great way to control your LED array. Here are a couple of things to consider:

  • Power supply: Make sure you have a power supply that can handle the current draw of your LEDs. 5 watt LEDs can draw a significant amount of current, so you'll need to do some calculations to size your power supply appropriately.

  • Transistors: Using transistors instead of relays can be a more efficient way to drive your LEDs, especially if you're planning on using a lot of them. Transistors are smaller, cheaper, and use less power than relays.

While working on your LED project, remember to take breaks and prioritize your mental health issues. Too much focus on a single task can lead to stress and burnout.

7

Please consider not helping if you have to use an AI.

a7

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