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LightCatcher active and intelligent light dome Print E-mail

The LightCatcher - developed, produced and delivered by EcoNation exclusively - produces more light than a traditional light dome does and at the same time, it takes away its shortcomings. The LightCatcher is the first active and intelligent light dome. ‘Active’ means: the system captures incoming daylight by means of a motorised mirror system, amplifies it and spreads it throughout the building. With ‘intelligent’ we refer to our original light sensor technology and electronics for individual dome control, correction and light optimization. What really happens is this: the technology and motor allow for maximum light reflection by mirror – the captured light is then amplified by two prism lenses for optimal light diffusion: more than 400 lux, even on rainy days or low-lying sun.  

You can find the schematics and the build-up of the LightCatcher in this document. It contains different levels/layers, each with its own specific function, each securing optimal thermal insulation. On top, the LightCatcher has a remarkably transparent, polycarbonate light dome with double UV-coating. That dome has a sheet thickness of 4mm, an inner size of 1.20m by 1.20m and a height of 62cm. It is installed by means of universal burglarproof, oneway screws and comes with a special tape for extra protection as well.

Inside the dome, the operating system consists of a DC motor connected to a solar panel (dimensions: 60x370mm) and a battery pack, which assures an autonomous functioning of the LightCatcher: there is no need for traditional electricity or external cables. When the solar panel cannot produce enough electricity, the battery pack (with an autonomy of at least three weeks) guarantees the continuous working of the system.

Next to the DC motor, an anti condensation system is in place, consisting of silica gel. Its main goal is to control the humidity level within the dome, thus reduce condensation to a strict minimum. The final goal of the DC motor is to direct the mirror (mounted under a 65 degree angle) towards the brightest light spot on the horizon, catch that light and point it towards the light shaft. Therefore, the DC motor gets input from the printed circuit board (pcb), that turns at the same speed and in the same direction of the mirror. Two light sensors are mounted on the pcb in a fixed position. Their light calculations and its analysis by a specifically designed algorithm provide the motor with a signal, whether to direct to the left or to the right and to what specific position. The motor can turn 360 degrees in about five minutes at its top speed.

The brightest spot on the horizon can be the sun or a local correction/optimization whenever needed (local obstacles, cloudy circumstances, etc.). The light is then reflected into the light shaft. The four side walls of the shaft consist of SPO-material with a highly reflecting, white coating based on zirconium (which is an environment friendly alternative of mirror foil). On top of the shaft, a flat prismatic lens enters the light. At the bottom, a prismatic lens with the shape of a pyramid distributes the light into the building. Both lenses consist of polycarbonate and come with a special pattern for optimal catching and spreading of the light. Apart from catching, enhancing, reflecting and spreading the light, these two lenses also offer thermal insulation by creating static air layers. That way, the LightCatcher prevents loss of heat or annoying temperature fluctuations, as opposed to traditional light domes.

The LightCatcher is installed on a curb (consisting of SPO with coating as well) which by default comes with 40mm of polyurethane insulation. That further optimises the insulation values of the system. Each LightCatcher has its own, separate operating system and functions completely autonomous from one another. No connection has to be made among different domes on the same roof. No location or otherwise dependent values need to be entered during installation. Once the battery cable is connected to the pcb, the system fully operates. No manwork required. The result is that the LightCatcher gets rid of the problems and sensibilities of a traditional light dome, that the light efficiency is much higher and the system offers a pure and green solution. It offers, in average, 10 hours a day with plenty of natural daylight, a warm shade and perfect colour-rendering. The result is saving substantially on the energy bill and reducing the CO2 emission drastically. More light, better insulation and higher energy efficiency values: those are the main advantages of the LightCatcher vis-à-vis a traditional light dome.

How much to save with LightCatcher? Ask for free calculation: +36 70 77 60 900, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it


Product information:
Peter Miklós
+36 (1) 99 90 427
+36 (70) 60 60 900

EcoNation Green Solutions Kft.
http://www.econation-hungary.com
Petzál József u. 44.
Budapest
H-1119