12/09/2014

Practice 2
Instructor: Mariana Menchola-Blanco
Student: Rosa Mara de Anda-Lpez

Abstract

Geometry is important when generating a good model feature.This research deals with
optimizing the design parameters of a truncated cone type hub to capture, transfer and diffuse
sunlight, so that reflections of light increase the focus on the walls of the cone and
subsequently inside the tube project to the interior of any construction. As an initial parameter
I considered that the length of the roof opening of a dome active section is similar to the mark
Ciralight square through which the sun rays fall on a vertical line. Considering the length and
diameter greater openness (b) and a concentration factor (FC) of 2.46, an Excel Solver tool
was used for calculating the optimal key dimensions: the angle of generating (), height of
the cone (h ), and smaller diameter (a), for which this dimensions achieve a desired
concentration. In addition, these dimensions were calculated and the hub truncated cone was
graphically designed using Mechanical Desktop 6 Power Pack, from a cone unit according
to active dome above. Finally, we built 1:100 scale model to measure the illuminance under
conditions of open skies and I controlled them using temperature sensor and photodetectors
with ranges from 0 to 130 kLx, finding a FC of 1.78 opencast and 1.89 with an halogen lamp
under controlled conditions .

Key words: Sunlight, concentrator, dome, illuminance, optimization.