Calculation of total solar fraction for different orientation of greenhouse using 3D-shadow analysis in Auto-CAD

▸ Distribution of the incoming transmitted solar radiation inside the greenhouse was studied in terms of total solar fraction (portion of the incoming solar insolation not being utilized for the greenhouse). ▸ A methodology was developed using Auto-CAD and it was termed as three-dimensional shadow analysis. ▸ Total solar fraction/solar fraction is required to write energy balance equation for individual wall/roof of a greenhouse. Many researchers, working on greenhouse, are befitted by the results. ▸ The effects of length and the width of the greenhouse on the total solar fraction were also evaluated. ▸ Methodology can be used for designing a greenhouse of any shape and located at any place.