Scalable Lighting Control System for Outdoor Park Installations

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Lighting in public parks ensures safety while enabling dynamic visual effects for daily use, seasonal themes, and special events. This system design outlines a robust, scalable lighting control infrastructure for outdoor park environments, integrating functional illumination with programmable effects.

Flowchart of scalable lighting control infrastructure for outdoor park environments

Splitter Duo Arma in IP65 enclosure for DMX signal distribution in park environments


Control Room: System Hub

The control room houses a lighting console or computer running software for programming lighting scenarios (e.g., daily schedules, holiday displays, or event-triggered effects). Control signals are transmitted via Ethernet (RJ45) to an ArtGate Arma, a DMX-to-Ethernet converter that distributes data using the DMX512 protocol.

DMX Distribution and System Expansion

From the ArtGate Arma, DMX signals are sent to a Splitter Duo Arma, a booster/splitter that maintains signal integrity across large park areas, even in harsh conditions (-40°C to +70°C). The splitter branches signals to multiple lighting zones, supporting up to four optically isolated DMX ports. Additional ArtGate Arma units can be networked via Ethernet to extend control to new park sections, supporting up to 32,768 DMX universes with Art-Net IV.

Diagram of Ethernet and DMX-based lighting control system for park installations


RGB Landscape and Tree Lighting

DMX-controlled RGB fixtures illuminate walkways, benches, borders, embankments, and underwater features like pond fountains. These IP65-rated fixtures are designed for continuous outdoor use. Tree canopy lighting uses programmable RGB fixtures to create time-based effects (e.g., warm tones for autumn, cool whites for winter) or event-driven displays (e.g., pulsing colors for festivals).

Moving Head Fixtures for Dynamic Effects

Strategically placed moving head fixtures provide precise lighting for art installations, sculptures, or interactive effects during performances. These IP65-rated units support DMX512 and RDM for real-time feedback, enabling features like beam direction, color changes, or gobo patterns. Power requirements typically range from 100–240 V AC.

PixelGate Arma controlling LED pixel lighting for park video walls and facades


PixelGate for LED Pixel Control

An Ethernet line from the ArtGate Arma connects to a PixelGate, which uses Art-Net or sACN protocols to control individual LED pixels in complex installations like video walls, media facades, or strip lighting on tree trunks and bridges. A park’s LED wall can display narrative-driven visuals or blend into the natural environment.

System Design Features

  • Scalability: Add ArtGate or PixelGate units to expand coverage for new park zones.
  • Durability: Devices are housed in IP65-rated enclosures, suitable for extreme weather (-40°C to +70°C).
  • Compatibility: Supports DMX512 and RDM for legacy fixtures and Art-Net/sACN for modern LED control.
  • Network Efficiency: Ethernet backbone with RJ45 connections minimizes latency and simplifies cabling.
  • Diagnostics: Web-based interface monitors fixture status, signal strength, and error logs.

Technical Comparison Table

Both models have an IP rating of IP65
Operating temperature is −40 °C … +70 °C
Power input is 110–250 V AC or PoE (IEEE 802.3af)
DMX ports: up to 4 optically isolated ports
Splitter Duo Arma supports DMX512, RDM, Art-Net 1–4, sACN
ArtGate Arma supports DMX512, RDM, Art-Net 1–4, sACN, KiNet, RTTrPL
Ethernet ports: 2 x 10/100 Mb switch
Dimensions (mm): 199 × 56 × 149
Cooling: passive, fan-less
Warranty: 36 months

ArtGate Arma device in IP65 enclosure for DMX-to-Ethernet conversion in park lighting


Use Case: Automated and Event-Driven Lighting

This system enables parks to automate daily lighting, create seasonal displays (e.g., holiday-themed tree lighting), or trigger event-based effects (e.g., motion-sensor-activated spotlights for night events). Scenarios are programmed and stored in the control room, with remote diagnostics reducing the need for on-site technicians. The system scales easily to include new pathways, installations, or zones.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What is the operating temperature range for these devices?
    Both Splitter Duo Arma and ArtGate Arma operate from -40°C to +70°C, ensuring reliability in extreme weather.
  2. Which protocols are supported?
    Both devices support DMX512, RDM, Art-Net (1–4), and sACN. ArtGate Arma also supports KiNet and RTTrPL.
  3. How many DMX ports are available?
    Up to four optically isolated DMX ports per device, configurable as inputs or outputs.
  4. Can the system be powered via PoE?
    Yes, both devices support PoE (IEEE 802.3af) or 110–250 V AC.
  5. Are the devices suitable for outdoor use?
    Yes, both are IP65-rated, protecting against dust and low-pressure water jets.
  6. How is the system configured and monitored?
    A web-based interface allows configuration and diagnostics, including fixture status and signal monitoring.
  7. How do I expand the system for a new park zone?
    Add additional ArtGate or PixelGate units via Ethernet, with configuration via the web interface.
     

To view detailed product pages for the devices mentioned in the article (ArtGate Arma, Splitter Duo Arma, PixelGate Arma), visit the Sundrax Electronics website:

These pages provide specifications, manuals, and configuration details for each device.

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