Reduction of the use of artificial light by adapting the switch-off times to individual presence patterns

Currently, presence-controlled lighting systems are usually coupled to constant and relatively long switch-off delays to ensure system acceptance against faulty absence detection. The generalized switch-off times that are used for all work-places and buildings are usually decided before the initial startup. A consideration of user individualities, which are significantly influenced by the activity profile and corporate culture, is not taken into account. User individualities play a decisive role in the implementation of concepts that increase the energy system performance, The study presented in the following therefore examines the effects of the behaviour of building users on energy requirements on the basis of occupancy data. The identified attendance patterns are used to tailor lighting control on an individual level. The results show that a significant reduction of the switch-off delay and the associated energy demand is possible without negative effects on system acceptance rates or user comfort. A high spatial sensor resolution proves to be necessary to compensate for potentially increased false off rates, In this context, the importance of sensor positioning and number is emphasized.

Automated summary

The study examines the impact of building users' behavior on energy requirements based on occupancy data. Tailoring lighting control on an individual level can significantly reduce switch-off delay and energy demand without affecting system acceptance rates or user comfort. High spatial sensor resolution and sensor positioning are emphasized for compensating potentially increased false off rates.