Smart Street Lighting
Background
A senior capstone (2011) to design an outdoor lighting solution to combat light pollution and reduce energy consumption.
Research
The research conducted focused on:
-Light Pollution and how it is measured
-Impacts of Light Pollution and reduction methods
-Types of Light sources in outdoor lighting
-Improving Light Fixture Cutoff
-Solar Panels and Solar Tracking
See boards below for in-depth information. This board format is how the project was presented. All visual information design is my own.
Challenges
Solar Array- A conventional fixed frame solar panel doesn't optimally face the sun at a minimal incidence angle throughout the day because of the sun's changing height. A dual-axis tracking system was desired but current the frame designs were difficult to integrate cleanly into a street light form.
Light Source- Final design utilized LEDs over typical high/ low-pressure sodium bulbs. Back in 2010/2011 LEDs were not as prevalent in street lighting as it is today so this was an intentional choice based on needs.
INNOVATION- Discovery of a LED ring bulb format provided catalyst to design a dual axis solar tracking into the fixture head. Moving panel has clearance into the hollow of the ring. Recessing the ring bulb into the fixture head provided cutoff needed to reduce light pollution.
Outcome
A specially designed dual axis sun tracking solar panel that accounts for sun's differing heights during the day/seasons has better solar absorption than more common fixed array solar panels. Full cutoff light fixture directs light downward, reducing the escape of light and therefore sky glow.
