A fuzzy-logic IoT lighting and shading control system for smart buildings

The paper introduces a working prototype of an IoT system which controls natural and artificial light balance in combination with a dynamic shading system. The proposed solution adopts a scalable approach to smart system integration in buildings based on sensing and actuating nodes (Arduino-driven) and on a main unit (Raspberry-driven). A control App is developed to allow user interaction by setting seasonal automatic modes or manual functionalities. The required illuminance threshold may be changed, while the shading system acts in accordance with seasonal profiles in line with bioclimatic design principles. The control system adopts a fuzzy logic solution which is able to ensure fast control without high computational effort. Preliminary tests of the developed prototype are reported showing its main functionalities and its ability to maintain the required illuminance even in high variance conditions by adjusting both shading and lighting in less than 100 s. Currently, the solution has reached TRL 3.