High-efficiency daylighting system
A significant portion of building construction is made of opaque or light-reducing materials that require artificial lighting. Not only does artificial lighting expend the use of energy and materials, but it also adds to the heating load of structures and requires more cooling during the summer months. Mirror Duct System attempts to solve this problem by extending natural light deep within interior spaces. In contrast to conventional light shelves and larger window openings, which increase daylight but remain relatively shallow and do not eliminate glare, Mirror Duct System thoroughly controls and diffuses light throughout its path into a building. At first glance the system resembles traditional HVAC ductwork, except that it is clad internally with highly reflective aluminum mirrors that extend light as much as sixty feet inside a structure.
Developed by Tokyo-based Material House, Mirror Duct System is a completely passive technology that contributes to CO2 reduction by decreasing electric power usage for lighting as well as the additional cooling often required. Natural daylight has been shown to create a more comfortable environment and inhibits mold growth in interior kitchens and bathrooms.
Contact: Material House, Tokyo, Japan.
For more information, see Transmaterial 2: A Catalog of Materials That Redefine our Physical Environment
