DETERMINATION OF THE PERFORMANCE OF LIGHT SHELVES FOR MORE EFFECTIVE BENEFIT FROM DAYLIGHT IN BUILDINGS

Abstract

Studies on the efficient use of daylight in sustainable architectural design and energy conservation are increasing. Indoor lighting methods include daylighting, artificial, and integrated lighting. Basic priorities in lighting are such as “effective use of daylight”, “uniform illumination in space”, “glare control”, “visual connection with the external environment” and “daylight harvesting.” Advanced contemporary systems include light shelves and light tubes. Light shelves consist of horizontal or slightly angled elements that can be applied to the inner and outer surfaces of the window openings, usually at eye level, to block the daylight or to reflect it to the ceiling, integrated with the facade, or added later. In this research, light shelves, which is one of the advanced daylighting methods, are emphasized. Daylight analysis method was carried out with the help of a physical model and computer simulation techniques using DiaLux software. To effectively utilize the daylight factor in the internal volume through light shelf, certain parameters such as the height and angle of the light shelf, date and time, and direction of the room's opening, play a crucial role. In daylight analyzes, these parameters were subjected to experimental testing both in physical models and through computer simulations. As a result of the comparison of the obtained data, alternatives that will provide the opportunity to benefit from daylight in the most effective way have been identified. The results obtained have unique value and widespread impact in terms of sustainable architecture and energy saving. The study's originality lies in its specific measurements of the latitude in which it is located, as it is the first time the study is conducted under Eskisehir's conditions. In addition, the examination of the advantages and disadvantages of the light shelf in specific combinations is another original side of the project.