Development of computer controls for a goniophotometer

Abstract

The investigation of innovative window materials for redirecting light and thermal sources is an important component of the field of daylighting. The Heliodome system developed in the Building Technology department is a new type of goniophotometer for analyzing the spectral and angular properties of these materials. The Heliodome system relies on two cameras to transmit images to a user interface in order to provide immediate feedback to users. A filter wheel that divides the spectrum of visible and infrared light into separate wavebands for performing spectral analysis also needs to be integrated into the system to optimize the operation of the system by one user. The subject of this thesis is a control system that unifies the operation of the heliodome system. A wireless system has been developed to enable communication between the main user interface and the system camera without restricting the system's freedom of motion. Also, motors were selected and added to the filter wheel system to automate the filter changes and eliminate inaccuracy in the system. The modifications will enable the separate components of the Heliodome system to operate cohesively and allow architecture students to control the separate components from a single interface.