Application of Radiance for developing future solutions : case studies of virtual natural lighting solutions and photocatalytic oxidation modeling

Application of RADIANCE simulation tool can be ranged from typical lighting design to development of new materials. In this presentation, we will show two cases of RADIANCE application for the research and development of new, future solutions. In the first case, the model development of Virtual Natural Lighting Solutions (VNLS) is shown. A VNLS is expected to mimic the behavior of real window in spaces without actual windows. RADIANCE is employed to predict the lighting performance, i.e. gain of well-lit workplane area, uniformity, ground contribution on the ceiling, and probability of discomfort glare. Various configurations, tilt angles, beam angles, and total luminous fluxes are considered as input variables. The results show a comparison of the indicators with VNLS, relative to those with real windows under CIE overcast sky. In the second case, the measurement and simulation of irradiance distribution on a sample coated with photocatalyst are shown. A certain setting is required to assess the material’s ability to degrade pollutants, and incoming light on the material’s surface plays an important role in the process. Using the simulation model, more insight was provided into the distribution and the effects of the glass cover and reflection of the sample on the received irradiance, which initially could not be measured. Based on the simulations, the irradiance within the range of 400-570 nm on the catalyst sample can be mapped. The simulation results will serve as boundary conditions in further studies for predicting the degradation of pollutants in the reactor.