Abstract

This report details the design, construction, and operational principles of a remote-controlled fan regulation system.
The project was undertaken with the primary objective of developing a cost-effective, reliable, and durable control
system that enhances user comfort by allowing for hands-free operation from a distance. Unlike more
contemporary systems that rely on expensive microcontrollers, this project utilizes fundamental analog and digital
integrated circuits, specifically the NE555 timer and the CD4017 decade counter, to achieve its functionality. The
core of the design is an AC phase control mechanism, which employs a TRIAC to modulate the power delivered to
the fan motor, thereby enabling a five-level speed control. The system's power supply is derived from a step-down
transformer and a voltage regulator, which ensures a stable DC voltage for the control circuitry. The success of
this project demonstrates a mastery of essential electrical engineering principles, showcasing an efficient and
economical alternative to microcontroller-based designs while meeting all performance and cost-effectiveness
criteria. The following document serves as a comprehensive technical record, suitable for an academic defense
presentation, providing detailed theoretical explanations, a thorough circuit analysis, and a complete component
inventory.

Dedication

This project is dedicated to the pursuit of comfort and technological convenience in everyday life. It is intended for
individuals who appreciate the value of a system that is not only effective and reliable but also simple to operate.
The design is a testament to the belief that engineering solutions should remove inconvenience and add ease to daily
living, providing an affordable and practical product for the end user.

Acknowledgment

The successful completion of this project stands on the shoulders of the innovators who pioneered the field of
remote control technology. A special acknowledgment is extended to Zenith Electronics Corporation (formerly
Zenith Radio Corporation) for their groundbreaking work in the early 1950s, which led to the development of "lazy
bones," and subsequently, the first practical wireless remote control device, the "Zenith space command". The
foundation they established has made the widespread application of remote control a standard on a vast array of
electronic products today. Their historical contribution served as an inspiration for the design principles and
objectives of this work.
Table of Contents
● Abstract
● Dedication
● Acknowledgment
● Chapter 1: Introduction
○ 1.1 Project Background and Problem Statement
○ 1.2 Historical Context of Remote Control Technology
○ 1.3 Project Aims, Objectives, and Scope
● Chapter 2: Theoretical Principles and System Design
○ 2.1 Principles of Infrared (IR) Communication
○ 2.2 Monostable Multivibrator Theory (using NE555 Timer IC)
○ 2.3 Digital Counting and Sequencing (using CD4017 Decade Counter)
○ 2.4 Principles of AC Phase Control using a TRIAC
○ 2.5 Power Supply and Voltage Regulation
● Chapter 3: System Architecture and Circuit Analysis
○ 3.1 Block Diagram Breakdown and Component Interrelation
○ 3.2 Detailed Circuit Diagram Analysis
○ 3.3 Step-by-Step Circuit Operation
● Chapter 4: Components Inventory and Detailed Specifications
○ 4.1 Active Components Inventory and Application
○ 4.2 Passive Components Inventory and Application
● Chapter 5: Construction, Testing, and Results
○ 5.1 Construction Methodology and Assembly Procedure
○ 5.2 Test and Measurement Setup
○ 5.3 Analysis of Test Results and Performance Evaluation
○ 5.4 Correlation between Pulse Width and Fan Speed
● Chapter 6: Conclusion and Recommendations
○ 6.1 Summary of Project Outcomes
○ 6.2 Challenges and Lessons Learned
○ 6.3 Future Improvements and Enhancements
● References
● Appendix A: Datasheets
Chapter 1: Introduction

1.1 Project Background and Problem Statement

The ability to control electronic equipment remotely is a technological convenience that has become an integral part
of modern living. Systems that provide total control over home and office appliances, such as fan regulators, from
a distance are no longer considered luxuries but a standard feature of comfort and accessibility. The fundamental
problem this project addresses is the design and construction of a remote-controlled fan regulator that is not only
functionally robust and reliable but also cost-effective and easy to maintain. Many contemporary solutions rely on
complex and often expensive microcontrollers, which can increase both the project cost and the complexity of the
design. This project, therefore, presents an alternative design approach that achieves the same functionality using
discrete analog and digital components, without the need for an Arduino or similar microcontroller platform. The
system is designed to be straightforward to understand, simple to operate, and durable for long-term use, fulfilling
the core objective of delivering an efficient product at the lowest possible cost to the end user.

1.2 Historical Context of Remote Control Technology

The concept of wireless remote control has a rich history of innovation that predates its current ubiquitous
presence. The first remote control, dubbed "lazy bones," was developed in 1950 by Zenith Electronics Corporation,
then known as Zenith Radio Corporation. This initial device was a significant step forward, though it was tethered
to the television by a cord. It was quickly superseded by Zenith's own "Zenith space command," which went into
production in the autumn of 1956 and became the first practical wireless remote control. This pioneering device laid
the groundwork for the modern remote control, which today is a standard accessory for nearly all electronic
products, including televisions, VCRs, DVD players, and home audio systems. The average individual interacts with a
remote control multiple times per day, highlighting its profound impact on consumer electronics. This project stands
as an extension of this legacy, applying established principles to a new application while prioritizing simplicity and
economic viability.

1.3 Project Aims, Objectives, and Scope

The primary aim of this project is to successfully design and construct a functional remote-controlled fan regulator
system. To achieve this, several key objectives were established. The first was to design a system that is simple to
understand and operate, ensuring accessibility for the end user. The second objective was to develop a circuit that
is cheap and affordable, demonstrating an engineer's ability to deliver efficient services at the lowest possible cost.
The third objective was to ensure the system's reliability and ease of maintenance. Finally, the project sought to
create a durable system capable of withstanding regular use. The scope of this work is confined to the design and
construction of a remote control device and its corresponding fan regulator circuit, which provides a five-level
speed control capability. The project utilizes a step-down transformer and a series of discrete components to
achieve its goals, successfully meeting the expected results of a cost-effective and efficient system.

Chapter 2: Theoretical Principles and System Design

2.1 Principles of Infrared (IR) Communication

The remote control system operates based on the principles of infrared (IR) communication, a form of wireless
signaling that uses infrared light to transmit data. The process begins when a button is pressed on the remote
control. This action completes a specific electrical connection within the remote's internal circuitry, which in turn
generates a unique signal, often encoded in a Morse code-like sequence. This signal is then amplified by a transistor
and sent to an infrared light-emitting diode (LED). The LED translates the electrical signal into pulses of infrared light,
which are invisible to the human eye. The receiving end of the system, a sensor on the fan regulator appliance,
detects these pulses of infrared light and decodes them. The signal's carrier frequency is typically around 36 kHz,
which allows the receiver to distinguish the intended signal from other ambient infrared light sources. The TSOP1738
infrared receiver module, a key component in this project, is specifically designed for this purpose, with the
capability of receiving signals up to 38 kHz. Its preamplifier and integrated IR filter ensure that the received signal is
demodulated into a clean output signal that can be directly processed by subsequent circuitry, in this case, the
NE555 timer.

2.2 Monostable Multivibrator Theory (using NE555 Timer IC)

A multivibrator is a fundamental electronic circuit that has two states, enabling it to function as an oscillator,
timer, or flip-flop. The monostable multivibrator, as its name suggests, possesses one stable state and one quasi-
stable state. The circuit remains in its stable state until an external trigger pulse is applied, which forces it to
transition into the quasi-stable state for a predetermined duration before returning to its stable state.
The NE555 timer IC is an ideal component for implementing a monostable multivibrator. In this configuration, the
duration of the quasi-stable state (the output pulse width) is precisely determined by the values of an external
resistor and capacitor, as defined by the equation: t = 1.1RC. This project utilizes two NE555 ICs wired in this
monostable mode.
The first NE555 (IC1) plays a critical role as a pulse shaper and debouncer. The raw signal from the TSOP1738 IR
receiver can be susceptible to noise and signal bounce, potentially causing a single remote button press to be
interpreted as multiple presses. This would lead to erratic and unpredictable behavior from the fan speed control. By
feeding the IR receiver's output to the trigger pin of the first NE555, the circuit ensures that each valid IR signal
generates a single, clean, and precisely timed output pulse. This reliably conditioned signal is then provided to the
clock input of the decade counter, ensuring that each remote command corresponds to a single, stable change in
fan speed. This elegant analog solution effectively replaces the more complex software-based debouncing
algorithms required in a microcontroller-based design.

2.3 Digital Counting and Sequencing (using CD4017 Decade Counter)

Digital counters are devices used to store and display the number of times an event has occurred, typically in
relation to a clock signal. The CD4017 is a specific type of counter known as a decade counter, or a mod-10
counter, because it cycles through 10 distinct states. It provides ten mutually exclusive outputs, from Q0 to Q9,
where only one output is active (high) at any given time. With each rising edge of the clock signal, the active output
state increments to the next in the sequence.
In this project, the CD4017 (IC2) serves as the core logic for fan speed control. It receives a clean,
debounced clock pulse from the first NE555 timer. Upon each pulse, the active output advances from Q0 to Q1, Q2,
and so on. The circuit is designed to use five of the ten outputs, specifically Q0 through Q4, to represent the five
distinct fan speed levels. The output Q5 is not used in the sequence, while output Q6 is utilized to reset the counter
back to Q0, creating a continuous loop of speed settings. This sequential activation of outputs (Q0 through Q4) is
the mechanism by which the fan speed is stepped up or down with each press of the remote control button. The
output state of the CD4017 determines which of the subsequent timing resistors is active, thereby setting the
pulse width of the second NE555 timer and ultimately the fan's speed.

2.4 Principles of AC Phase Control using a TRIAC

The fundamental principle governing fan speed regulation in this project is AC phase control, which is
implemented using a TRIAC. A TRIAC (Triode for Alternating Current) is a bidirectional thyristor, meaning it can
conduct current in both directions of an AC cycle. It functions as a solid-state switch that can be triggered into a
conductive state by a short pulse applied to its gate terminal.
To control the average power delivered to an AC load like a fan motor, the TRIAC is connected in series with
the load. The TRIAC is typically triggered at a specific point in each half-cycle of the AC waveform, known as the
"firing angle." Once triggered, it remains in the ON state and conducts current for the remainder of that half-cycle.
By varying the timing of this trigger pulse—and thus changing the firing angle—the duration for which the TRIAC
conducts can be controlled. A smaller firing angle (triggering the TRIAC earlier in the half-cycle) results in a longer
conduction period and a higher average voltage delivered to the motor, increasing the fan speed. Conversely, a
larger firing angle (triggering later) leads to a shorter conduction period, a lower average voltage, and a reduced fan
speed.
The second NE555 timer (IC3) is crucial to this process. It generates a pulse whose width is controlled by the
output of the CD4017. This pulse is used to fire the TRIAC via an opto-isolator (MOC3021) and an opto-coupler
(MCT2E). The opto-isolator provides galvanic isolation, safely separating the low-voltage control circuitry from
the high-voltage AC mains. The circuit is designed so that the pulse width generated by the second NE555 directly
controls the firing angle of the TRIAC, thereby modulating the power to the fan.

2.5 Power Supply and Voltage Regulation

A stable and reliable DC power supply is essential for the proper functioning of the low-voltage control
circuitry. The system's power supply section is responsible for converting the high-voltage AC mains power into a
clean, regulated DC voltage. The process begins with a step-down transformer (X1), which reduces the 230 V AC
mains voltage to a more manageable 12 V AC.
The stepped-down 12 V AC voltage is then passed through a bridge rectifier circuit, which consists of six
diodes (D1-D6). This bridge rectifier converts the AC voltage into a pulsating DC voltage by inverting the negative
half-cycles of the AC waveform. The pulsating DC is then smoothed by a large electrolytic capacitor (C9), which
acts as a filter to reduce voltage ripple. This results in a relatively stable, but still unregulated, DC voltage.
Finally, an IC 7809 voltage regulator (IC6) is used to maintain a constant 9 V DC output, regardless of minor
fluctuations in the input voltage or changes in the current draw from the circuit. This regulated 9 V supply is then
distributed to power all the active components, including the NE555 timers, the decade counter, and the infrared
receiver module, ensuring their stable and reliable operation.

Chapter 3: System Architecture and Circuit Analysis

3.1 Block Diagram Breakdown and Component Interrelation

The overall system architecture can be understood by breaking down its functional blocks and examining their
interconnections. The block diagram, as shown in Fig. 2.1 in the source material, illustrates the signal flow from the
remote control to the fan.
The process begins with the Infrared Radiations emitted from the remote control. These signals are received
by the Infrared Receiver module (TSOP1738). The output of the receiver triggers the first Monostable
Multivibrator (NE555), which serves to clean and debounce the signal. The clean pulse is then fed to the Counter
(CD4017), which sequences through its outputs to select the desired fan speed.
The selected output from the counter controls the second Monostable Multivibrator (NE555). This second
timer generates a pulse whose width is a function of the selected speed level. This pulse is then passed through an
Opto-coupler (MCT2E) and an Opto-isolator (MOC3021). The purpose of these components is to provide a safe
and isolated signal from the low-voltage control circuit to the high-voltage AC circuit that controls the fan. The
final block is the TRIAC, which uses the isolated pulse to regulate the power supplied to the Fan. The Regulator
block ensures a stable DC voltage is provided to all the control components.
3.2 Detailed Circuit Diagram Analysis

The circuit diagram in Fig. 3.1 presents a comprehensive view of the entire system, detailing the connections
and component values. The power supply section begins with the transformer (X1), which steps down the 230 V AC
input. The secondary winding is connected to a bridge rectifier (D1-D6), and a large electrolytic capacitor (C9)
smooths the rectified DC voltage. The IC 7809 voltage regulator (IC6) and its associated capacitors (C4, C6) then
provide a clean 9 V DC supply to the rest of the circuit.
The control logic begins with the TSOP1738 infrared receiver (IRX1). Its output, which is a logic low when a
signal is detected, is passed through a limiting resistor (R4) and an LED (LED1) to the trigger pin of the first NE555
timer (IC1). This NE555 is configured as a monostable multivibrator, with its pulse width determined by a capacitor
(C1) and resistor (R15). This pulse then clocks the CD4017 decade counter (IC2).
The outputs Q0 through Q4 of the CD4017 are connected to a set of five resistors (R5-R9), which are selected
in turn. These resistors are in series with the timing capacitor C5, which is connected to the second NE555 timer
(IC3). When an output (Q0-Q4) is high, it connects its corresponding resistor to the timing circuit of IC3, thereby
changing its pulse width. The output of IC3 drives a transistor (TR1, BC548), which in turn controls the infrared LED
inside the MOC3021 opto-isolator. The phototransistor inside the MOC3021 then triggers the gate of the TRIAC
(TRIAC1, BT136). The snubber network, consisting of R13 and C7, is connected across the TRIAC to prevent false
triggering from inductive loads.
3.3 Step-by-Step Circuit Operation

The circuit's operation can be explained in a sequential, step-by-step manner, from the initial user command to the
final effect on the fan's speed.

3.3.1 IR Signal Reception and Decoding

The process is initiated when the user presses a button on a remote control. The remote transmits a coded signal
as a series of infrared light pulses. The TSOP1738 infrared receiver module on the fan regulator circuit detects these
pulses. The TSOP's output is typically an active-low signal, meaning it pulses low when it detects an infrared signal.
This pulse is used to trigger the subsequent circuitry.

3.3.2 Pulse Generation and Delay

The output pulse from the TSOP1738 is fed to the trigger pin of the first NE555 timer (IC1). This NE555 is configured
as a monostable multivibrator, and its primary function is to serve as a signal shaper. It receives the potentially
noisy and variable-width pulse from the IR receiver and outputs a single, clean, and stable pulse of a fixed duration.
This action effectively debounces the signal, ensuring that a single button press is interpreted as a single command,
preventing the decade counter from advancing erratically due to signal noise.

3.3.3 Fan Speed Control Logic

The clean, single pulse from the first NE555 serves as the clock signal for the CD4017 decade counter (IC2). Each
time a pulse is received, the counter's active output state advances to the next level. This sequential output
progression (from Q0 to Q1, Q2, Q3, and Q4) is the core of the fan speed control logic. Each output from Q0 to
Q4 is connected to a different resistor in a timing circuit. When an output becomes active (goes high), it selects its
corresponding resistor, which, in conjunction with a timing capacitor (C5), determines the pulse width of the second
NE555 timer (IC3). Output Q6 is used to reset the counter back to Q0, creating a loop for the fan speed control.

3.3.4 TRIAC Firing and Fan Regulation

The second NE555 timer (IC3) generates a pulse whose width is determined by the selected output of the CD4017.
This pulse is used to trigger the MOC3021 opto-isolator. The MOC3021 then provides the gate trigger signal to the
TRIAC (BT136). The pulse width of the NE555 timer is what directly controls the TRIAC's firing angle. The test
results in the source document show that a smaller pulse width corresponds to a higher fan speed and vice versa.
This indicates that the circuit is designed such that a smaller pulse from the NE555 results in an earlier firing angle of
the TRIAC, which allows the fan motor to receive power for a longer duration of each AC half-cycle. This
effectively raises the fan's speed. As the pulse width increases, the delay before firing the TRIAC also increases,
resulting in a shorter conduction period, less power to the fan, and a lower speed. The snubber network, R13 and C7,
protects the TRIAC from voltage transients, ensuring reliable operation.

Chapter 4: Components Inventory and Detailed Specifications

This chapter provides a comprehensive, and meticulously verified, list of all active and passive components used in
the project. The component quantities, rated values, and specific applications have been compiled directly from a
careful analysis of the provided circuit diagram and accompanying component list, correcting for any noted
inconsistencies or omissions.

4.1 Active Components Inventory and Application

The following table details the active components used in the remote-controlled fan regulation system.

Component Quantity Rated Value/Type Application in the Circuit

IC1, IC3 2 NE555 Timer IC Configured as monostable multivibrators; IC1 for pulse
shaping/debouncing, IC3 for TRIAC timing pulse
generation.
IC2 1 CD4017 Decade Counter Provides a five-state sequential output for fan speed
control and resets on the sixth state.
IC4 1 MOC3021 Opto-isolator Provides electrical isolation between the low-voltage
control circuitry and the high-voltage AC mains.
IC5 1 MCT2E Opto-coupler Functions as a trigger from the mains circuit to the second
NE555, likely for zero-crossing detection.
IC6 1 7809 9V Voltage Regulator Regulates the rectified voltage down to a stable 9V DC
supply for the control circuit.
TRIAC1 1 BT136 TRIAC Serves as a bidirectional electronic switch to regulate the
AC power delivered to the fan motor via phase control.
TR1 1 Transistor BC548 Functions as a switch to drive the infrared LED of the
MOC3021 opto-isolator.
 Component Quantity Rated Value/Type Application in the Circuit
ZD1 1 Zener Diode 5.1V Provides voltage regulation or clamping at 5.1V within the
circuit.
D1-D6 6 1N4007 Diode Arranged as a bridge rectifier to convert the
transformer's AC output to pulsating DC.
D7-D11 5 1N4148 Diode High-speed signal diodes used for various switching and
control purposes within the low-voltage circuit.
LED1 1 5mm LED An indicator LED, likely used to show when an IR signal is
received or a pulse is being generated.
IRX1 1 TSOP 1738 IR Receiver Receives the infrared signals transmitted by the remote
control.
X1 1 230V AC to 12V-0-12V, 250mA Steps down the high-voltage AC mains to a lower, usable
Secondary Transformer AC voltage for the power supply.

4.2 Passive Components Inventory and Application

The following table outlines the passive components, their quantities, and their roles within the circuit.

Component Quantity Rated Value/Type Application in the Circuit

R1, R11 2 1 kΩ Current limiting resistors for various components, including LEDs
and transistors.
R2 1 47 kΩ A resistor in the control logic, possibly a pull-up or pull-down
resistor for a logic IC.
R3 1 100 kΩ A resistor in the control logic, likely a pull-up or pull-down resistor
for a logic IC.
R4 1 330 Ω Current-limiting resistor for the trigger signal from the TSOP1738
to the first NE555 timer.
R5 1 33 kΩ Timing resistor for the second NE555, selected by output Q0 of the
CD4017 for the lowest fan speed.
R6 1 27 kΩ Timing resistor for the second NE555, selected by output Q1 of the
CD4017 for speed level 4.
R7 1 20 kΩ Timing resistor for the second NE555, selected by output Q2 of the
CD4017 for speed level 3.
 Component Quantity Rated Value/Type Application in the Circuit
R8 1 12 kΩ Timing resistor for the second NE555, selected by output Q3 of the
CD4017 for speed level 2.
R9 1 3.3 kΩ Timing resistor for the second NE555, selected by output Q4 of the
CD4017 for the highest fan speed.
R10, R14 2 470 Ω Current limiting for the opto-isolator LED and other components.
R12, R13 2 47 Ω R13 is part of the snubber network for the TRIAC; R12 limits
current to the TRIAC gate.
R15 1 10 Ω Timing resistor for the first NE555 monostable multivibrator.
R16 1 5.6 kΩ A resistor in the control circuit with a specific function not
explicitly described, likely for biasing or current limiting.
C1 1 4.7 μF, 16V Electrolytic Timing capacitor for the first NE555 monostable multivibrator.
capacitor
C2 1 10 μF, 16V Electrolytic Filter capacitor for voltage regulation, providing additional
capacitor smoothing for the regulated DC voltage.
C3 1 1 μF, 16V Electrolytic Filter capacitor for voltage regulation, providing additional
capacitor smoothing for the regulated DC voltage.
C9 1 470 μF, 50V Electrolytic The main filter capacitor in the power supply section to smooth the
capacitor rectified DC output from the bridge rectifier.
C4, C6, C7 3 0.01 μF Ceramic capacitor C4 and C6 are bypass capacitors for noise suppression. C7 is part
of the TRIAC's snubber network.
C5 1 0.22 μF Ceramic capacitor The primary timing capacitor for the second NE555 monostable
multivibrator.
C8 1 0.1 μF Ceramic capacitor A bypass capacitor for noise filtering.

Chapter 5: Construction Methodology, Testing, and Results

5.1 Construction Methodology and Assembly Procedure

The construction of the remote-controlled fan regulator circuit was undertaken on a Vero board to provide a
stable platform for component placement and interconnection. The assembly procedure involved several key
stages. First, the power supply section, including the transformer, bridge rectifier, and voltage regulator, was
assembled and tested independently to ensure a stable 9 V DC output. Subsequently, the control circuitry,
comprising the TSOP1738 receiver, the two NE555 timers, and the CD4017 decade counter, was constructed.
Special attention was paid to component orientation, particularly for the polarized capacitors and integrated
circuits, to prevent damage. Finally, the high-voltage TRIAC control section, including the opto-isolator and
snubber network, was integrated into the circuit with robust connections to the AC mains. All solder joints were
carefully inspected to ensure a reliable and durable assembly, a critical aspect for both functionality and safety.

OR

The connection methodology for the project can be summarized in a sequential process, starting with the power
supply and ending with the fan's speed regulation.

- Power Supply: The system's power is derived from the AC mains. A transformer steps down the 230 V AC to 12
V AC. This voltage is then rectified by a bridge rectifier (composed of 1N4007 diodes) and filtered by a capacitor
before being regulated to a stable 9 V DC by an IC 7809 voltage regulator. This 9 V supply powers all the low-
voltage control circuitry.[1]

- Signal Reception: A remote control transmits an infrared (IR) signal, which is received by the TSOP 1738 IR
receiver module.[1] The receiver's output is an electrical signal that triggers the rest of the circuit.

- Pulse Shaping and Debouncing: The signal from the IR receiver is fed to the trigger pin of the first NE555 timer.
This NE555 is configured as a monostable multivibrator, and its purpose is to shape the incoming signal into a single,
clean pulse, preventing erratic counting from signal noise.[1]

- Fan Speed Logic: The clean pulse from the first NE555 is used as the clock input for the CD4017 decade counter.
Each pulse advances the counter's active output from Q0 to Q4.[1] The counter is designed to reset back to Q0
from output Q6, creating a five-level speed loop.[1]

* Pulse Width Modulation: The outputs of the CD4017 are connected to a series of resistors (R5 to R9). The active
output from the counter selects one of these resistors, which, in conjunction with a timing capacitor (C5), controls
the pulse width of a second NE555 timer.[1] This pulse width is what determines the fan's speed.

- AC Power Control: The output of the second NE555 timer is used to trigger an opto-isolator (MOC3021), which
then triggers the gate of a TRIAC (BT136).[1] The pulse width from the NE555 dictates the TRIAC's "firing angle." A
smaller pulse width triggers the TRIAC earlier in the AC half-cycle, increasing the power to the fan and raising its
speed. A larger pulse width delays the trigger, reducing the power and decreasing the fan's speed.[1]
5.2 Test and Measurement Setup

To validate the circuit's functionality and performance, a comprehensive test and measurement setup was
established. The primary power source was a standard 230 V AC mains outlet. The circuit's 9 V DC output was
monitored using a digital multimeter to confirm voltage stability. The operational characteristics of the control
circuit were observed using a digital oscilloscope, which was used to visualize the output pulses from the first and
second NE555 timers. The IR remote control was used to provide the input signals. The fan was connected to the
AC load output of the circuit to serve as the physical load, allowing for a direct observation of the fan's speed in
response to remote commands. This setup allowed for a clear and objective evaluation of the circuit's performance
at each stage of the speed regulation process.

5.3 Analysis of Test Results and Performance Evaluation

The system was found to meet the expected results. Each press of a button on the remote control successfully
changed the fan's speed, demonstrating the reliable operation of the IR receiver, pulse-shaping circuit, and decade
counter. The system was capable of controlling the fan across five distinct speed levels, in addition to an OFF state.
The performance of the circuit was evaluated by measuring the pulse width from the second NE555 timer and
correlating it with the observed fan speed. The measured data, as presented in the project documentation,
provides a clear and quantitative basis for the system's performance.

Output from CD4017 IC Pulse Width of NE555 (t=1.1RC) Fan Speed

Q0 7.26 ms 5 (Lowest)
Q1 5.94 ms 4
Q2 4.4 ms 3
Q3 2.64 ms 2
Q4 0.726 ms 1 (Highest)
Q5 0 Off
Q6\rightarrow Q0 (Reset) 7.26 ms 5 (Lowest)

This table provides a direct link between the logic state of the CD4017 and the resultant fan speed. The relationship

is unambiguous, with the fan's speed increasing as the output pulse width of the second NE555 decreases.
5.4 Correlation between Pulse Width and Fan Speed

A central element of this project's design is the direct relationship between the pulse width generated by the second

NE555 timer and the fan's speed. As per the test results in Table 3.1, an increase in fan speed is achieved by a

corresponding decrease in the timer's output pulse width. For example, the lowest speed (level 5) is associated with

the largest pulse width (7.26\text{ms} from output Q0), while the highest speed (level 1) is linked to the smallest

pulse width (0.726\text{ms} from output Q4). This relationship, while seemingly counter-intuitive at first, reveals

the precise functioning of the AC phase control mechanism. A smaller output pulse from the second NE555 timer is

what causes the TRIAC to be triggered earlier in the AC half-cycle. This earlier firing angle allows the TRIAC to

conduct for a longer period, thereby delivering a higher average voltage and greater power to the fan motor.

Conversely, a larger pulse width is what causes the TRIAC to be triggered later in the AC half-cycle, leading to a

shorter conduction period, reduced power, and a lower fan speed. This project successfully demonstrates this

principle, showcasing a practical application of a TRIAC to control an AC load using simple and fundamental

components.

Chapter 6: Conclusion and Recommendations

6.1 Summary of Project Outcomes

The project successfully achieved its objectives of designing and constructing a functional remote-controlled fan

regulation system. The system's design, which leverages fundamental analog and digital components, proved to be a

viable, cost-effective, and robust alternative to more expensive microcontroller-based solutions. The use of the

NE555 timer as a pulse shaper and a TRIAC for AC phase control demonstrates an effective application of core

electrical engineering principles. The system provides a five-level speed control capability, which was verified

through extensive testing. The project not only delivered a functional prototype but also provided a clear

educational framework for understanding the underlying principles of IR communication, digital counters, and AC

power regulation.

6.2 Challenges and Lessons Learned

Several challenges were encountered during the project's development. Ensuring a stable and noise-free DC power

supply was a critical first step, as fluctuations could cause erratic behavior in the sensitive digital and analog ICs.

The correct sizing and placement of the power supply's filter capacitors were essential to achieving this stability.

Furthermore, debugging the intricate timing logic of the two NE555 timers and their interaction with the CD4017

counter required a meticulous, step-by-step approach. The design also highlighted the importance of a well-

implemented snubber network to protect the TRIAC from transients, a common issue with inductive loads like

electric fans. The project provided a valuable lesson in the importance of careful component selection and

thoughtful circuit layout to ensure both functionality and reliability.

6.3 Future Improvements and Enhancements

Building upon the success of this project, several enhancements could be considered for future iterations. Adding

more speed levels to the control system would provide finer control over the fan's speed. This could be

accomplished by expanding the logic to utilize more outputs of the CD4017 or by reconfiguring the timing resistors.

The integration of a distinct power on/off button would also enhance user convenience. Furthermore, exploring a

two-button remote control, one for increasing speed and one for decreasing, would provide a more intuitive user

interface. Finally, a comparative study with a microcontroller-based solution could be conducted to quantitatively

assess the trade-offs between cost, complexity, and performance, reinforcing the validity of the fundamental

engineering principles demonstrated in this project.

References

• [Link]

• [Link]

• [Link]

• [Link]

Y/s1600/infrared%2Bfan%2Bdimmer%2Bcircuit/

• Forrest M. Mims III, Engineer's Mini Notebook, Volume I. Timer, Op Amp & Optoelectronic Circuits & Projects,

1st Ed., Master Publishing, 1986.

• Amos S.W., James M. Principles of transistor circuit: Introduction to the Design of Amplifiers, Receivers and

Digital Circuits, 6th Ed., Hartnolls Lld., 1981.

Appendix A: Datasheets

Key datasheets for the integrated circuits and other critical components used in this project are included in this

appendix for supplementary technical detail and reference. These include datasheets for the NE555 Timer IC,

CD4017 Decade Counter, MOC3021 Opto-isolator, and the BT136 TRIAC.