PASSIVE AND ACTIVE DAYLIGHTING

Facility uses and operating hours dictate to some degree the choice of applying Active or Passive Daylighting. A "one size fits all" design will not accomplish the goal of turning off lights on sunny or bright cloudy days. The goal is reached by delivering high levels of full spectrum daylight, well diffused over a predetermined space.

Active Daylighting applies a sun tracking mirror assembly to the Passive System to introduce greater amounts of sunlight at low sun angles. The mirrors redirect sunlight in the morning, the afternoon and all day during winter months.

Automatic light controls can be used on either the Passive or Active System to turn lights off when the daylighting system is providing desired light levels.

Passive Daylighting is built around a high tensile strength, leak proof, skylight frame and retainer. It utilizes direct and ambient sunlight striking an impact resistant acrylic dome.

A reflective light shaft transmits sunlight onto an interior diffusing lens that spreads the light evenly over the space below.

Managing the Sun
The use of a 3-position wall switch activates the built in So-Dark Motorized Shade Screen, allowing the user to manage the amount of sunlight being introduced into a room. This simple yet dynamic device when drawn across the skylight frame, allows a teacher, for example, to darken or blackout a room to show video or slide presentation. So-Dark can be designed for use in both Passive and Active Daylighting Systems.

Daylighting in Gymnasiums
A gymnasium with daylight must be seen to appreciate. The many benefits of natural light in the learning and play environment continues to be recognized by campuses throughout the nation. The energy savings can dramatically reduce operating cost up to $.50 per square foot while improving light levels and light quality. TLC's systems using daylighting will provide 100+ foot-candles without creating heat gain or heat loss. Motorized shade screens adjust light levels with a flip of a switch!

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