Solar Lighting System- Efficient Energy Convertors

Solar energy refers to the use of solar radiation for practical ends. Solar Lighting Systems involve the channeling of sunlight using rooftop collectors and mirror dishes to track the sun's rays. The sunlight is channeled by collectors, which are adjusted to aim at the sunlight, and onto 127 optical fibers which are conducted into one single cord. The optical fibers are flexible and can be connected into hybrid light fixtures which are attached to diffusing rods that disperse the light.

A single collector can light up eight hybrid fixtures, covering an area of over 90m2. Another method used in the hybrid lights is artificial lighting which is mixed with natural sunlight beamed in through the optic fiber cords. Photo-sensors inside the system generate the level of light in a way that keeps a room illuminated at a constant brightness, adding or minimizing to the natural light. For instance, in case of a cloudy day, where sun beams are impaired, around 5% of the sunlight requirement would have to be added.

Solar lights are mainly used for decoration and come in a wide variety of designs. They are sometimes holiday themed and may come in corny odd shapes. They frequently mark footpaths or swimming pools. These outdoor lamps are also used for gardens and lawns where they accentuate the serene setting. In indoor lighting solar lamps are used for general illumination. They recharge during the day and remain illuminated after twilight and all through the night, depending on how much sunlight they receive during the day. Day lighting is another method used to provide internal lighting. Windows and other reflective surfaces are placed so that they reflect sunlight during the day in order to maximize visual comfort.

Day lighting is given particular attention when designing a building when there is an aim to minimize energy use. Discharging time is usually 8-10 hours.

Solar technology is generally characterized as per their process of capturing and distributing sunlight. Current solar power techniques use photo-voltaic panels, pumps and fans to convert sunlight into useful energy. Other passive techniques select material with favorable thermal properties, creating spaces that naturally circulate air, and positioning a building to fully access the sun beams hence increasing the supply of energy. When such features are created to fit the environment and local climate, they can provide sufficient lighting that stays in an optimum range. Recent solar approaches to solar designs use computer modeling binding together solar lighting, heating and ventilation systems in an integrated package.

Solar equipment such as pumps and fans can complement design and improve system performance. A downside to solar energy is overheating of metropolitan areas due to increased absorption of solar light by urban materials such as concrete. This increase in temperature can result in inflation of air conditioning costs. Planting trees and painting buildings white can act as a coolant, therefore lowering the temperatures.

Lighting technology acts as an alternative energy source and reduces energy costs. Sunlight, therefore adversely affects urban planning methods and building designs in modern architecture. Hybrid solar lighting systems should be used in rooms with direct roof access.