Technical English (BLHW 2403)

SOLATUBE

GROUP MEMBERS:

MUHAMMAD ZAKUAN BIN HAMZAH (B011610197)

MOHAMMAD FAISAL BIN MAT SULAIMAN

SHARIF BIN SAIDI

MOHD AKMAL AZRI BIN AZIZAN (B011610050)

KAMARUL

Centre for Languages and Human Development

Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka

26 DISEMBER 2017

SOLATUBE
 GROUP MEMBERS:

MUHAMMAD ZAKUAN BIN HAMZAH (B011610197)

MOHAMMAD FAISAL BIN MAT SULAIMAN

SHARIF BIN SAIDI

MOHD AKMAL AZRI BIN AZIZAN (B011610050)

KAMARUL

This Report Is Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of Requirements For

Technical English (BLHW 2403)

Centre for Languages and Human Development

Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka

26 DISEMBER 2017

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

In the name of ALLAH S.W.T., the most Merciful and the most Gracious

Alhamdulillah, a lot of thanks to ALLAH S.W.T for His blessing for we to

complete our report and this report is the symbolic of the support and guidance from
everyone involving.
 First of all, we would like to say thousand thank you to our lecturer of
technical English which is Madam Nor Lailatul Azilah Binti Hamdzah. She always
guides the ways to do report for this report. She also not hesitates to comment on our
report when we are doing wrong during the project. Furthermore, she provides for
ours the knowledge on doing research.

Once again, I would like to say thank you to my parents who give support to
me throughout the ways of prepare and complete the final year project. Next, I am
lucky that I have a lot of friends in helping me along the way during the period of
final year project. They are willing to help me when I face problems and sometimes
will give me some comments on my works too.
 ABSTRACT

Solatube is an advanced engineering project that will bring beauty and comfort your
residential by using Smart LED system that will utilize patented optical technologies to
brighten interiors with natural light while the energy – efficient attic ventilation systems
make the living is in more comfortable and better place to live. This research investigates the
functions of Solatube that harnesses of the sun’s energy during the day to power a soft glow,
solar electric nightlight also with its benefit to our daily life. Solatube invented the Smart
LED system which will cut the lighting energy use by 94%. The Smart LED system use the
Sun Sense Technology with a sorted control center that continually giving access of the
daylight level. When there is low concentration of light, LED lights will turn on and vice
versa when there is high-level concentration of light with giving the effective lighting of 24
hours a day. Solatube Daylighting Systems use a proprietary capture-transfer-delivery
process to deliver natural light to places that were once thought impossible. Solatube
products combine patented technologies with progressive engineering for daylighting that
delivers a superior blend of illumination intensity, thermal with performance and light
consistency.
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

CHAPTER TITLE PAGE

TITLE PAGES
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
ABSTRACT
TABLE OF CONTENTS

1 INTRODUCTIONS
1.1 BACKGROUND
1.2 PROBLEM STATEMENT
1.3 OBJECTIVE
1.4 RESEARCH QUESTION
1.5 SCOPE
1.6 ORGANIZATION

2 LITERATURE REVIEW OF SOLATUBE

2.1 INTRODUCTION
2.2 HISTORY

3 METHODOLOGY
3.1 QUESTIONAIRE
3.2.1 INTRODUCTION
3.2.2 METHODOLOGY
3.2.3 CONCLUSION
3.3.0 THE EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH
3.3.1PROCESS AND FUNCTIONING OF A SOLATUBE

4 RESULT AND DISCUSSION

5 CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

REFERENCES
 CHAPTER 1

1.0 INTRODUCTION

The Solatube Brighten up series and its range of accessories have been designed
with your home mind. The series consists of two sizes that are 250 mm and 350 mm
diameter. Both are compacted enough to fit between standard UK joists and rafters, yet
provide amazing level of light. Our range of roof flashings, ceiling and accessories means
Solatube Daylighting System can be customized to suit your individual installation.

1.1 BACKGROUND

Nowadays many buildings had been built for the convenient to all human. The cost to build a
building was exceed million dollars. So, the manager need to find a way to reduce the cost of
operation of its building. So, the Solatube was establish to all human. The Solatube began in
the 1980s when a lone Australian created a product that revolutionized the way daylight was
brought into a building. Establish as the tubular daylighting device, this product was a
compact and leakproof alternative to traditional skylight. After being patented, this device
changes the name to the Solatube. This product sold and catalyst that transformed the
sunlight energy.

Solatube tubular daylighting devices, or TDDs for short, are affordable, high-performance
lighting solutions that bring daylight into interior spaces where traditional skylights and
windows simply can’t reach. Sometimes called “tubular skylights,” “light tubes,” “sun
pipes,” and even “light tunnels,” TDDs have become the ideal solution for lighting interiors
in a cost-effective, energy-efficient and eco-friendly way because they significantly reduce
the need for electricity while keeping people connected to the outdoor environment.

In 1986, The first tubular daylighthing device (TDD) is invented. It is simple to install
without structural changes and delivers abundant natural light to interiors. Since that time,
Solatube International has continued to innovate with new and updated models. Is it with the
advanced of optical technologies, daylight dimming, lighting and ventilation devices make
the component more functioning. And there’s more to come.
1.2 PROBLEM STATEMENT

We study the effect of the in the past, people have thinks many ways to make
the night as bright as the daylight for them to make work and live. There are no other
source that can provide light except sun at the daylight. Sunlight are naturally bright,
free and contrary to a bulb light and never burns out. The very first Solatube
Daylighting system was create by Solatube International Inc, since than two decades
ago by harnessing and transferring that perfect sunlight into that project.

The problem of making this project is that many rooftop domes allow in so
much of the sun’s brilliance that it creates glare, making you squint to block some of
it out. Another problem is choosing the right substance for the dome, so the furniture
in your house can retains its original color. Other than that, the dome is quickly turn
into yellow that makes us to frequently change it. The bulb also not bright as they
want you to believe because it depends on the sunlight that receive by the domes.

1.3 OBJECTIVE

 The purpose of this report is to acknowledge people about the new lighting
technology called Solatube Daylighting System.
 The objective of this report is to study on how the daylighting system is working as
the source of light for the interior places.

1.4 RESEARCH QUESTION

The main purposed of this part is to analyze and study how far their knowledge of
“solatube” and it’s functionality to consumer that will reduce the cost and eco-friendly. This
research will provide and lead by knowing of “solatube” in detail and will keep focusing on
the research. Below are the main questions that will be achieved in the research.

1. What is the main purpose of “solatube”?

2. What is the benefit that will be offered by “solatube” other than the economic
part?
3. Does it require space for installation?
4. Will the environment affect the durability of material?
5. How long will it can stand the environmental exposure?
1.5 SCOPES

In this project, we will specify on the functions of Solatube that harnesses of

the sun’s energy during the day to power a soft glow, solar electric nightlight also
with its benefit to our daily life. Other aspects such as production of Solatube and its
marketing will not be covered in this project.

1.6 ORGANIZATION

The first part of this report is an outline on the existing of Solatube tubular
daylighting devices that bring daylight into interior places. This is followed by
method used to gain data. Then, data tabulation and analysis. Finally, conclusions
and recommendations are made.
 CHAPTER 2

LITERATURE REVIEW OF SOLATUBE

2.1 INTRODUCTION

Solatube is a combination name from solar and tube which is means the sunlight
produce the lighting through a specific tube. The sunlight consist particular infrared, visible,
and ultraviolet light. Before it can be through into the building, the portion of sunlight ray
need to be filtered to make a non-effect to the customer that can be eco-friendly, energy
saving and practically.

This solatube is suitable for commercial and residential such as warehouse,

manufacturing, office, education place, retails, sport and recreation indoor, hospitality,
healthcare, museum, and homes. It also suitable for agriculture and public utility. (Katharine
Keane, 2017)

The fundamental of solatube’s part is a tubular that reflected the rays and collector
which is collect the direct sunlight through into the tubular although it comes from any
direction. This function is changing all the incoming direction of rays into random direction
in tubular that produce the same lighting rate in other direction of the sunlight.

Next, the rectifier is used to make brighter lighting that can be covered in large area.
Otherwise, there have any addition part to produce a better and brighter light like dimmer is
used to reduce the amount of bright daylight in a building and smart LED system, this part is
designed for night because there’s no sunlight to produce the light and it provide second
lighting for the whole night.

2.2 HISTORY

The roots of Solatube International Inc, originator of the tubular skylight, go back
to the 1980s and inventor Steve Sutton. At a time when poorly designed – and often
leak-prone – traditional skylights had become the scorn of home and business
owners, the inventor had a revolutionary idea: a compact, leak-proof and effective
alternative.
His concept incorporated a light-capturing system on the rooftop that redirected light
down through a highly reflective cylinder to a diffuser at ceiling level. The system
would be simple to install without structural modifications and provide exceptional
lighting.
In 1992, Solatube Inc was established, and an office was opened in Carlsbad,
California. Over the next few years, Solatube Inc added the 350 and 530mm diameter
units to the market, along with accessories such as the integrated electric light fitting
and ventilation kits that further enhanced the skylights. Solatube Inc became a major
contender in the sky lighting industry.
By 1998, opportunities were escalating around the globe. The company was
restructured, and Solatube International Inc was established to manage worldwide
operations. In 1999, having outgrown its existing building, Solatube International Inc
moved into a new 55,000sq ft world headquarters in Vista, California, which allowed
the company to further grow its operations and develop new technologies.

2.3 ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF SOLATUBE

Solatube have many advantages and disadvantages. The advantages are

solatube can provides a source of natural daylight. This is because is source come
from the sunlight. Next, solatube usually cheaper to purchase and install than
traditional skylights for the same light output. It also has federal tax credits on some
types of solatube. After that, the source is healthier of daylight with no glare or heat
gain because the sunlight are clean source. Other than that, solatube also can
minimizes change in internal temperature by preserving insulation and preventing
loss of heating or cooling energy. Lastly, it requires almost no maintenance and the
one-piece impact proof design is leak and damage proof.

The disadvantages of solatube have two. Firstly, the solatube doesn’t allow a
direct view of the sky. This is because of their sealed design solar tubes can’t be
opened. Secondly, the dome to absorb the sunlight need to service rapidly because it
easily to look yellowish and can make the amount of source absorbed is less.

There are many advantages rather than disadvantages in the solatube that we
found in this project and we think is very useful to all people to use it.

2.4 CONCLUSION

These are the key elements to consider when evaluating TDD. While some
manufacturers may compare components of a system separately, an accurate
evaluation of its total performance is possible only when considering the system as a
whole.

CHAPTER 3

METHODOLOGY

3.1 Questionnaire

Section 1

Figure 3.1

Figure 3.2

Section 2
 Figure 3.3

Figure 3.4

Section 3

Figure 3.5
Figure 3.6

Figure 3.7

Figure 3.8
3.2.1 Introduction

In this chapter provides an overview of the methodology section. Firstly, the

objectives of the report as well as the location of data collection are discussed. This
is followed by an explanation on the procedures undertaken to gather information
and questionnaire as well.

3.2.2 Methodology

In this research, only namely questionnaire method was used to obtain the responses
and opinion about Solatube. This questionnaire method has eight close-ended
question. Dichotomous Questions were used to find out the perceptions of the student
on Solatube. Google form was carried out to do this questionnaire.

The questionnaire consists of three sections which were used to collect information
and data. The three sections are section 1: Demographic details, Section 2: Knowing
about Solatube, Section 3: Understanding the Solatube.

Section 1: Demographic details

This section requires the respondent to fill in their personal information. The
personal information consists of gender and faculty. This is to find out if there is any
different between male and female students’ perceptions about Solatube.

Section 2: Knowing about Solatube

This section studies student knowledge and their expectation about Solatube. This
section consists 2 questions.

Section 3: Understanding the Solatube

This section is to study about the current system lighting used by students. This
section consists of five question. All these questions are aimed to make students
know the advantages of the solatube and make the student use a solatube in future.

3.2.3 Conclusion

This chapter has provided a review of the methodology about the students’
perceptions of the Solatube. The information gained will assist our research to make
sure student knowing the solatube. The following chapter will discuss the findings
and results of this study.
3.3.0 The experimental approach

"Solatube," "light tunnel," tubular skylight," "light tube," "sun pipe," or "daylighting
system," a TDD captures the sun's rays and uses them to illuminate the interiors of
homes. In its most basic form, this unique device is made up of a dome, tubing, and a
diffuser.

Solatube tubular daylighting devices, or TDDs for short, are affordable, high-
performance lighting solutions that bring daylight into interior spaces where
traditional skylights and windows simply can’t reach. TDDs have become the ideal
solution for lighting interiors in a cost-effective, energy-efficient and eco-friendly
way because they significantly reduce the need for electricity while keeping people
connected to the outdoor.

The Solatube is designed to maximize light output at any time of day. It effectively
captures low-angle sun rays in the morning, late afternoon and winter months with
the help of the Light Tracker Reflector, and collects high-angle rays at midday for
powerful performance. It is recommended for use in spaces where variances in light
levels don’t create an issue for occupants.

3.3.1 Process and functioning of a Solatube

Capture

Capturing sunlight is of course the first step. The most advanced dome technology
has the ability to virtually bend daylight. Light Tracker reflector is an innovative in-
dome reflector that Redirects low-angle winter sunlight for maximum light capture,
increases light input for greater light output, delivers unsurpassed year-round
performance.

Transfer

After capturing the required sunlight, the next step is of course transferring it. Every
time a ray of light is reflected, a small amount of that light is lost. And even a few
percentage points in reflectivity make a huge difference in overall performance. It’s
that attention to detail that led scientists to develop the highest performing tubing
available. A small difference in reflectivity value can make an exponential difference
in overall light delivery of a tubular daylighting device.

Deliver

What makes Solatube Daylighting Systems unique? The ability to offer amazing
control over daylighting a space. From light control to diffusion, you can think of
virtually everything you need to bathe a space in pure, natural light. For a stylish
daylight delivery form and function combine for optimal daylight diffusion with New
Stylish Ceiling Decorative Fixtures, Warming or softening Effect Lenses,
Ventilation, dimmer or nighttime lighting options and Superior Color Rendition.

REFERENCE

 https://www.houselogic.com/remodel/painting-lighting/solar-tubes-beat-skylights/
 http://www.solatube.com/
 http://www.archlighting.com/products/daylighting-and-solar-control/daylighting-
products-solar-electric-nightlight-by-solatube_o
 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=saDzRYewZNE
 https://www.pinterest.com/solatube/solatube-daylighting-systems/
4.0 Results and Discussion

In this section, introducing the results from the google form is the main
objective. Base on the figure 3.2, the number of the random persons that answer this
survey are 79 with the majority of female which are 51.9%. What is fascinating is
that most persons that answer this quick is not UTeMs’ student.

Figure 3.5 shows the percentage of the how long did a person use light source
per day. The survey indicates that 63.3% of the persons that use more than 6 hours
electric source per day. 27.8% of them use electric sources between 4 hours to 6
hours per day and the rest of them use 1 hour of source light per day.

Figure 3.5 (reattached)

Based from the Figure 3.5, the results clearly indicate that most of the use more than
6 hours internet per day. This result may be explained by the fact that many random people
prefer to use light source as they are prefer to stay in the interior space which is dimmer than
outside house. This is the reason why people are encourage to use Solatube as Solatube are
able to save cost while it’s will give people free maintenance of the dome shape of Solatube
which means more bucks to save.

Overall, the results of the study suggest people to use Solatube because majority of
random persons use more than 6 hours of light source per day which Solatube will be more
functional as the tube that provide light source.
Conclusion and recommendation

To conclude, this study sets out to acknowledge people about solatube

daylighting system and to study on how the daylighting system works as source light
at interior place. The result reveal everything about this objective. This findings are
also based on the analysis of data collected from questionnaires that had been
distribute to the people in Melaka. One of the significant findings in this study is that
a majority of the people in Melaka are not know what is the solatube but they are
interested in it after known that it’s have many capabilities in saving the energy.
Since it use the solar energy from the sun, so the use of that energy is not pollute.
However it also have limitation in our researches such as we not know how much the
solatube and the material that made the solatube. This study is extremely timely and
important as it has provided a new path for the human to saving energy. The
recommendation that we can conclude is the future studies should cover the cost of
the solatube and the material that make the solatube. They also need to cover the
process of the solatube works and more.