Evaluation of solar light tube and optical fiber systems using building information modeling with a life cycle cost approach

Tabatabaei, Seyed Ali; Fathi, Amirhosein; Mohammadi, Sina

doi:10.22065/jsce.2024.462374.3437

Evaluation of solar light tube and optical fiber systems using building information modeling with a life cycle cost approach

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Seyed Ali Tabatabaei ¹

Amirhosein Fathi ²

Sina Mohammadi ³

¹ Assistant Professor, Faculty of Technology and Engineering, University of Science and Culture, Tehran, Iran

² Master's degree, Faculty of Technology and Engineering, University of Science and Culture, Tehran, Iran

³ Instructor, Faculty of Technology and Engineering, University of Science and Culture, Tehran, Iran

10.22065/jsce.2024.462374.3437

Abstract

By utilizing two systems—solar light pipes and fiber optics—it is possible to transfer sunlight to dark interior spaces of buildings. These methods are particularly effective for buildings that, due to their geographical location, cannot efficiently utilize sunlight or for buildings that are primarily used during daylight hours. The main aim of this study is to examine the level of indoor lighting achieved through the use of solar light pipes and fiber optic systems. This assessment is conducted through Building Information Modeling (BIM) with a life cycle cost management approach to maximize the use of solar energy—one of the essential renewable energy sources in human life—and to save on electricity consumption and greenhouse gas emissions over the building's lifespan.In this research, the application of these systems is modeled for a six-story residential building with two units per floor (totaling 12 units) located in the Hakimiyeh area of Tehran. The modeling process first involves the placement of the systems within the building, then the examination of the lighting provided by the systems, and finally, an analysis of costs and the reduction in energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.It should be noted that Revit software was used for system placement, while Comsol and DIALux software were used to analyze the lighting levels. From this study, a desirable level of lighting in spaces was achieved, along with a +74% return on investment (ROI) and a cost-benefit index of +0.0003 per square meter for the solar light pipe system. In contrast, the fiber optic system yielded a -43% ROI and a cost-benefit index of -0.0002 per square meter.

Keywords

Solar light tube system

Optical fiber system

Building information modeling

Life cycle cost assessment

Natural daylight

Carbon emissions

Subjects

Project and Construction Management

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