Assessment of Indirect Daylighting Systems for Deep Office Spaces

Ochoa Carlos
M.Sc.Thesis, 2004

ABSTRACT:
This work evaluates and compares different daylighting devices that could help to extend the reach of natural light inside office spaces, into those areas where it would not be possible by normal means like unprotected windows. The use of these devices can be justified from different points of view. One of the main reasons is preference by workers towards daylighting, which also impacts positively in their health and workplace performance. Another important reason is that through effective use of the devices, savings in electrical energy for lighting can be achieved, influencing both the particular and national level. The research has been prepared and adapted for the climatic conditions of Israel related to natural lighting, and was assisted by parametric computer simulations. It is intended as a basic guide for those in charge of designing new office buildings or renovating existing buildings, giving them criteria to choose the most convenient tools for different needs. This is achieved by presenting to the reader general concepts related to lighting, the benefits that can be achieved by the improved use of daylighting avoiding glare and the state of the art in methods to predict the reach of daylight in a given space. This is followed by an overview of the type of systems available today to bring daylight to offices. Specific office conditions for the country are discussed and determined, which serve as a basis for computer simulations of office spaces that incorporate the specific natural lighting conditions of Israel. The results are discussed and translated into recommendations for use.