OFFICE WORKER RESPONSE TO AN AUTOMATED VENETIAN BLIND AND ELECTRIC LIGHTING SYSTEM - A PILOT-STUDY

A prototype integrated, dynamic building envelops and lighting system designed to optimize daylight admission and solar heat gain rejection on a real-time basis in a commercial office building is evaluated. Off ice worker response to the system and occupant-based modifications to the control system are investigated to determine if the design and ope ration of the prototype system can be improved. Key findings from the study are: (1) the prototype integrated envelope and lighting system i s ready for field testing, (2) most office workers (N = 14) were satis fied with the system, and (3) there were few complaints. Additional st udies are needed to explain how illuminance distribution, lighting qua lity, and room design can affect workplane illuminance preferences. (C ) 1998 Elsevier Science S.A. All rights reserved.