Developing a Dynamic Envelope/Lighting Control System with Field Measurements

TitleDeveloping a Dynamic Envelope/Lighting Control System with Field Measurements
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication1996
AuthorsDennis L DiBartolomeo, Eleanor S Lee, Francis M Rubinstein, Stephen E Selkowitz
JournalJournal of the Illuminating Engineering Society
Volume26
Pagination146-164
Date Published05/1996
Call NumberLBL-38130
Abstract

The feasibility of an intelligent venetian blind/lighting control system was tested in a 1:3 scale model outdoors under variable sun and sky conditions. The control algorithm, block direct sun and meet the design workplane illuminance level, was implemented using commercially available and custom designed blind and lighting systems hardware. While blocking direct sunlight, the blinds were properly controlled to maintain the design workplane illuminance within a tolerance of -10%, +25% when there was sufficient daylight. When daylight levels alone were inadequate, the electric lighting control system maintained the design workplane illuminance. The electric lighting could be turned off if a user-specified time period at minimum power was exceeded. Lighting energy savings of 51-71% (southwest) and 37-75% (south) was attained for the period from 8:00 to 17:00 on clear sunny days, compared to a fixed, partially closed blind with the same lighting system. Practical details for implementation and commissioning are discussed. The impact of control variations, such as profile angle, time step interval, and control area, on energy demand is investigated.

LBNL Report Number

LBL-38130