Multi-Zone Daylight Harvesting Using Single Sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current closed-loop daylight harvesting systems are inadequate for controlling multiple zones within an interior space, as they assume uniform light exposure across all areas, leading to inefficient energy use and potential glare issues, while open-loop systems suffer from less accurate control due to seasonal and weather changes.
Innovation Solution
A multi-zone daylight harvesting method utilizing a single photocell or sensor connected to a detection circuit and control device, allowing for distinct rate of change adjustments for each zone based on ambient light levels, ensuring uniform control and energy efficiency across multiple zones.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single closed-loop sensor is used to control multiple zones, then device complexity and cost are reduced, but manufacturing precision and control accuracy deteriorate because the system assumes uniform light exposure across all areas
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the interior space into multiple zones with different light exposure characteristics. Each zone is assigned a unique identification code and a specific rate of change parameter. The single sensor sequentially addresses different zones by comparing detected light levels against zone-specific thresholds, enabling differentiated control without requiring multiple physical sensors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by assigning different control parameters (rates of change) to different zones based on their specific light exposure characteristics. Zones closer to windows receive higher rates of change while interior zones receive lower rates, creating locally optimized lighting control that accounts for spatial variations in natural light penetration.
2Device complexity
If all internal light sources are dimmed at the same rate, then device complexity is reduced, but lighting uniformity and glare control deteriorate in spaces with non-uniform light exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements dynamic control by adjusting the rate of change parameter for each zone based on real-time light sensor readings and pre-programmed zone characteristics. The control algorithm dynamically calculates appropriate dimming rates for each zone, allowing the system to adapt to varying light conditions while maintaining uniform overall illumination levels across all zones.
Solution Approach 2:
Different zones are assigned different rates of change parameters based on their light exposure characteristics. Zones with higher natural light exposure (near windows) receive higher dimming rates, while interior zones receive lower rates, ensuring each zone maintains appropriate illumination levels without creating glare or dark spots.
3Loss of energy
If conventional daylight harvesting is implemented without multi-zone control, then energy savings are achieved, but glare issues and non-uniform lighting persist in spaces with varying light exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses feedback from the light sensor to continuously monitor ambient light levels and adjust internal lighting accordingly. The sensor readings are compared against zone-specific thresholds and rate of change parameters to determine appropriate dimming levels, creating a closed-loop control system that prevents both glare and underlighting while maximizing energy savings.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system dynamically adjusts lighting levels in each zone based on real-time sensor input and pre-programmed zone characteristics. By applying different rates of change to different zones, the system maintains uniform illumination across the space while preventing glare in areas with high natural light exposure, all while minimizing overall energy consumption.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach reduces energy waste by allowing precise control of light sources in multiple zones, maintaining consistent illumination levels and reducing glare, while enhancing reliability and cost-effectiveness compared to conventional systems.
Implementation Method 1
A multi-zone daylight harvesting method utilizing a single photocell or sensor connected to a detection circuit
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-zone daylight harvesting method and apparatus having a closed loop system utilizing a single light sensor is disclosed herein. This light control system includes an ambient light sensor connected to a detection circuit for detecting the amount of ambient light within a given zone and converting the light signal to an digital one. A control device couples to receive a predetermined rate of change for each respective zone from a storage unit along with the converted digital signal. The control device connects each zone of a plurality of electrical loads to control the power supplied to the electrical load at the predetermined corresponding rate of change and responsive to the amount of ambient light detected.