An open-loop venetian blind control to avoid direct sunlight and enhance daylight utilization

Shading devices, such as venetian blinds, are widely used to eliminate glare and maintain a comfortable working environment for occupants. This paper proposes an open-loop control of blind height and slat angle based on an analytic model of solar position, and geometry of venetian blinds and the windows. The algorithm enables completely blocking direct sunlight from entering the room beyond a certain user specified interior distance from the window while enhancing daylight utilization. We derive closed-form solutions for blind height and angle which are easily implemented in practice. Moreover, the proposed blind control algorithm is simulated with favorable performance. The algorithm has also been implemented and verified in real-time test-beds.

Hightlights
► An open-loop control of blind height and slat angle is proposed to avoid glare and enhance daylight utilization.
► A closed-form solution of blind height is calculated based on solar position and the geometric structure of a room.
► A closed-form solution of slat angle is obtained based on solar position and the geometry of Venetian blinds.
► The proposed blind height and angle control is implemented and verified in real-time test-beds.