Dynamic Shading: An Analysis

Abstract

Efficient use of energy is vital. Electric lighting contributes to a significant part of the total energy use in the US. Efficient use of daylighting offers a significant reduction in overall energy use. However, because the light available changes dynamically; the design of static shading systems adhering to both high and low levels of light is difficult. This thesis explores dynamic shading systems and analyses the benefits of an adaptive system when compared to a static system. The main goal of the thesis is to analyze a dynamic shading system in different conditions and compare it with a static system; in order to establish the advantages and disadvantages both quantitatively and qualitatively in terms of daylighting. Unfortunately, most of the daylighting metrics are not developed with a dynamic system in mind. So the thesis will also look to utilize a metric which takes account of the dynamism. The analysis process developed in this research involves building a series of simulation models in Ecotect. Each model represents one physical configuration of the system. Using Radiance and DaySim, Annual Illuminance Profiles are computed consisting of "snapshot" simulations at hourly intervals for a specific city. Custom software written in Java for individual static positions processes these profiles and computes the metrics adopted. Further, an hypothesized Dynamic system is computed by combining the individual static positions. Finally, the behavior and benefits of the Dynamic system is evaluated by comparing the Static and Dynamic system results for different latitudes.