Overview and new developments in optical daylighting systems for building a healthy indoor environment

Optical daylighting technology can deliver natural light to a space in a building where daylight is limited. This study gives an overview of two optical daylighting systems for capturing natural light: light pipe systems and mirror sunlighting systems. The literature on optical system theories and developments is identified and commercial products for optical daylighting systems on the market are described. By using a survey of major applications for optical daylighting systems, this study provides practical advice to building designers and researchers and also shows a light pipe system and a mirror sunlighting system developed from this investigation as well as an evaluation of their performance. The evaluation measured the illuminance of the two optical systems installed in a test room and a living room. This study concluded that optical daylighting systems can provide adequate visual comfort and can save energy if they are carefully designed.