Developing a transparent shading device as a daylighting system

A transparent shading device is developed as an alternative to opaque or translucent materials. The objectives are to create a new design of transparent blinds with improved daylighting performance and to simulate its daylighting performance. The application of a triangular cross-section for the slats and the use of clear plastic and a silver reflective coating as the materials for the new blinds utilize the principles of optics in this design. A case study analyses and compares the daylighting performance of the new transparent blinds, commercially available opaque blinds, and the previously patented transparent blinds. Results from a limited simulation of the three systems indicate the interior illuminance and daylighting performance are best for the new blinds.