Design and Development of Portable Microcontroller Based Headlight Tester for Motor Vehicle Inspection

Abstract

Ensuring road safety for motor vehicle users is a fundamental objective of vehicle inspections, with particular emphasis on the technical condition of the vehicle’s lighting system. However, traffic accidents resulting from malfunctioning headlights remain prevalent. This problem is often attributed to the poor condition of headlight testing devices (headlight testers) available in several Motor Vehicle Inspection Units, where many units are outdated, poorly maintained, or damaged. The high costs associated with the maintenance and repair of manufacturer-produced headlight testers further exacerbate this issue.This study aims to design and develop a portable, microcontroller-based headlight testing device that is both cost-effective and efficient. The proposed system utilizes a photodiode sensor to detect light intensity, with data processed by an Arduino Nano microcontroller. Measurement results are displayed on an LCD screen and can also be printed via a thermal printer.Experimental evaluations demonstrate that the device accurately and precisely measures vehicle headlight intensity in real-time, achieving accuracy levels of 99.52% for the right headlight and 99.43% for the left headlight. The portability of the system allows for convenient testing in various locations, including both indoor and outdoor environments, without requiring bulky or complex equipment. This device offers a practical solution to enhance the efficiency and accessibility of vehicle lighting inspections.