Being that I was frustrated that our car doesn't come with some of the finer things in life, like automatic lights, I decided to build my own.

I purchased all of these parts at my local radio shack for about 30 bucks.... They can be bought online for much cheaper (10 bucks)

 

The circuit uses a photocell to trigger a time delay circuit. When the photocell senses dark, it samples for 10 seconds, then turns on the lights. When light is detected, the circuit samples for 6 seconds then turns the lights off. This on/off delay prevents false signals caused by trees and tall buildings. The circuit shuts down when the key is removed. There is also a delay that is activated when the lights are on, it keeps the fog lights on for a set amount of time after the key is removed. This time is adjustable from 0-60 seconds. This circuit only functions when the lights were previously on. The on/off sensitivity is also adjustable.







Photocell (light sensor)

 

Lastly, If you want to disable the annoying chime that is triggered when the key is in and the door is opened... unplug this connector. This does not affect any other buzzers or chimes.

 

The not so pretty side...

 

Sweet.. for those of us that who aren't so electronically talented -- could you make some dummy instructions? or even make a few kits and sell them? I'd buy one.

 

Hooking the circuit to the car is very easy. All I had to do is tap 4 wires and attach a ground. I grounded it to a bolt on the steering column. Directly under that are the three wires coming from headlight switch. Tapped one for the running, fog, and head lights. The last wire runs to any power source that is only on when the car is on. I used the cig lighter. As for as the circuit itself, I have a crappy hand drawn schematic that I made. If I get time this week I'll remake it on the computer.

 

your electronic projects never cease to amaze me...

ever put any thought into window/sunroof mods similar to what lurch and some have done? things like, auto close on all 3 when the alarm sets?

 

Thanks. I currently have a module that auto closes the sun roof with a single touch.

 

Looking good Rasp!

That is a great idea. I hate sitting in my car to shut all the glass panels.

 

Maybe you can post your schematics?

 

what a nerd

 

damn Rodger, you're the man!! That sunroof mod sounds awesome

 

awesome!

 

I'll post the schematics after I redo them on the computer.

 

 

 

that's pimp!

 

yo, i've been thinking about doing this for a whileee, but i never got around to it...


thanks soooo much for the AWESOME post and scematic, nice jobbb

 

Yeah a I know... A bump from the dead.

Anyone looking to make and sell these?

 

RR's next GB perhaps?

 

+1 for GB.

 

so, this takes out your having to turn the lights on and off yourself? shweet

 

Oh man, this was soooo last year.

If I were to do it again, or actually sell them, I think I'd modify the circuit some more. Most notably, I would replace the relays with transistors.

There are a few things I've learned since making this.

 

RR...Would you be willing to make one for me? If so, how much?

 

I made two when I built it. PM me and we'll talk.

ps- i'm not going to make anymore. too lazy.