Air-clad optical rod daylighting system

Abstract

A novel daylighting system is proposed in which a set of ‘light rods’ is used to transport light from the exterior of a building into dull or unlit rooms within the building. These rods are sufficiently small to be fitted into most existing buildings without structural modification. During testing, rods were found to have a transmittance equal to that of a light pipe which had an aspect ratio six times smaller. Rods would collect both direct and diffuse light throughout the year, with high collection efficiency. Building occupants would benefit from natural light and the reduction of pollution and expense associated with the use of electric lights.