Introduction
The Enhanced Adaptive Window Shading System is an intelligent solution designed to optimize indoor thermal comfort and energy efficiency by dynamically adjusting window shading in response to environmental conditions.
Utilizing a light sensor (LDR) and a DHT11 temperature sensor, the system monitors sunlight intensity and ambient temperature. A servo motor adjusts the position of the window shades: closing them during periods of intense sunlight and high temperatures to mitigate heat gain, and opening them when sunlight intensity and temperatures are lower to allow passive daylighting. An RGB LED indicator provides real-time visual feedback on the system’s operational status—glowing red when actively reducing heat ingress and blue when promoting natural lighting.
By integrating simple sensors and actuators with an Arduino controller, the system remains cost-effective and accessible, with potential applications in both residential and commercial buildings. By reducing reliance on artificial lighting and air conditioning, this adaptive shading system contributes to energy savings and enhances occupant comfort.
The facade includes adjustable shading elements (likely slats or louvers) that control sunlight penetration into the interior spaces. The shading adjusts based on both light intensity and temperature to enhance comfort and energy efficiency.
By integrating simple sensors and actuators with an Arduino controller, the system remains cost-effective and accessible, with potential applications in both residential and commercial buildings. By reducing reliance on artificial lighting and air conditioning, this adaptive shading system contributes to energy savings and enhances occupant comfort.
Schematic diagram
Key components
Arduino Board Uno: Serves as the control unit to process sensor data and drive the servo motor and LEDs.
Light Sensor (LDR): Measures the intensity of ambient light to determine whether shading is required.
Temperature Sensor (DHT11): Monitors ambient temperature to prioritize thermal comfort.
Servo Motor (SG90): Adjusts the shading angle dynamically based on sensor input.
RGB LED Indicator: Signals excessive heat and activates shading. Also, Indicates daylighting conditions within the comfort zone
Bill of materials
Conditions
1. If the external temperature and sunlight intensity is high
The red LED will glow to indicate the heat mitigation and the servo motor will adjust to close the window shades to maintain the thermal comfort inside.
2. If the external temperature and sunlight intensity is ambient
The blue LED will glow to indicate the cooling mode and the servo motor will adjust to open the window shades to maintain the thermal comfort inside.
Upper Level (Cooling Mode)
The shading system is partially open, allowing natural light to enter while reducing glare and heat gain. The room is optimized for comfort, with sufficient natural daylight and lower internal heat.
Lower Level (Heat Mitigation)
The shading system is more closed, minimizing direct sunlight penetration to reduce solar heat gain. The space remains cooler, relying on the facade system to balance light and thermal loads.
How It Works
Sensors (light and temperature): Measure environmental conditions (external sunlight intensity and temperature).
Actuators (e.g., motorized slats or louvers): Adjust the shading configuration dynamically based on real-time data.
Interior Comfort: Ensures optimal thermal comfort and daylighting across various seasons or times of day.
