Prototyping a façade-mounted,dynamic,dual-axis daylight redirection system

Various emerging technologies encourage the embedding of intelligent and climate responsive behaviour into architectural elements. Light-shelves have been used for decades to enhance natural light in spaces, however, their static nature is limiting their overall performance potential. This paper explores the convergence of rapid prototyping, parametric design and environmental modelling software to create a dynamic and direct-reflection daylight redirection system that significantly enhances daylight availability. A Radiance-based simulation workflow to optimise and study the system is used and a 1:1 mock-up is developed. The mock-up is based on a horizontal-light shelf with an array of mirror tiles that can tilt in two axes based on sun position. The potential impact of such a system is then evaluated for a side lit office space in multiple climates in the northern hemisphere. Results show that daylight can be redirected deep into the building more effectively and therefore improve daylight availability for otherwise underlit floor plan regions. Projected savings for electric lighting range from 17% to 35% compared with a static redirection system.