Artifice Solar Collector Locator Preview

Artifice, Inc.

Artifice Solar Collector Locator Preview

The Artifice Solar Collector Locator will provide results for a variety of solar energy analysis functions. Using analytical "irradiance" calculations of incident light, in addition to the more common 'radiance' calculations of the reflected light we see with our eyes, this easy-to-use design tool provides vivid graphic output of optimum collector locations.

The Artifice Solar Collector Locator will provide vivid graphical output for rapid and reliable evaluation of solar collector sites, with a simple web page user interface. The Artifice Solar Collector Locator is based on the fast, easy modeling capabilities of DesignWorkshop Professional, and the powerful Radiance photometric imaging engine. And, it uses a research-quality, photometrically accurate CIE sun and sky model for great results.

For this compact house on a small lot, with taller buildings on three sides, and a medium sized tree to the south, is there a viable roof location for photovoltaic solar panels?
The example solar collector locator images below show that yes, there is still excellent solar access for properly located roof-mount solar panels.
Solar Analysis

Click on the sample images to view high resolution versions.

Irradiance Contours
December 21, 9:00am
Superimposed on site plan rendering

Grayscale Intensity Irradiance
Sum of 9am, 12 noon, 3pm (12-21)
White shows best PV panel locations

Irradiance Contours
Sum of Hourly Sunshine (12-21)
Contours show best PV panel locations

Color Intensity Irradiance
Sum of Hourly Sunshine (12-21)
Orange shows best PV panel locations

Radiance Online | Main DesignWorkshop Gallery...

http://www.artifice.com/rendering/irradiance.html