The light source (simulating the sun) stays in one spot, while the table holding the architectural model tilts and rotates. The table's movements represent: The location on Earth. Season: The day of the year (solar declination). Time: The hour of the day. 2. Movable Light (Fixed Table)
Determines the azimuth or the specific hourly angle of the sun. Types of Heliodons
Helps design effective overhangs and louvers to prevent overheating.
Heliodons vary in complexity, from manual tabletop versions to automated computer-controlled systems. They generally fall into three design categories: Heliodon: The Story Behind the Design - PLAITLY heliodon
The model sits on a flat, stationary surface while the light source moves along a track or robotic arm to trace the sun's trajectory. This is often considered more intuitive as it mimics the sky dome. Physical vs. Digital Simulations
Provides an intuitive way for students to grasp complex concepts like azimuth and altitude. How a Heliodon Works
The heliodon feature would allow users to analyze and visualize the impact of sunlight on buildings and spaces throughout the day and year. This feature could include: The light source (simulating the sun) stays in
Accounts for solar declination, often focusing on extremes like the summer and winter solstices.
The device operates on a lococentric view, assuming the observer's location is fixed while the sun moves around it. To accurately simulate solar geometry, a heliodon typically adjusts across three primary variables:
A heliodon functions as a solar emulator, typically employing one of two mechanical setups: 1. Movable Table (Fixed Light) Time: The hour of the day
In the era of sustainable architecture, understanding solar geometry is critical for energy efficiency. A heliodon serves as a bridge between theoretical solar math and tangible design.
: For urban projects, heliodons are vital for ensuring your new building doesn't "steal" the sun from neighboring parks or existing structures. Physical vs. Digital: The Evolution of the Tool Historically, a heliodon was a large physical rig—a moving light source that hovered over a scale model. While physical labs like the Princeton Architectural Laboratory pioneered this, most modern architects now use digital heliodon tools integrated into BIM software like Vectorworks or SketchUp . These digital versions allow for rapid iteration. You can rotate your entire site model or change the date from the winter solstice to the summer equinox with a single click, generating solar animations that clearly show a client exactly what their morning coffee view will look like. Vectorworks +1 The Bottom Line Mastering the sun isn't just about "green" points; it's about better design. Whether you are using a physical rig for a tactical mockup or a digital tool for a complex BIM project, the heliodon remains the gold standard for bringing light—literally—into your architectural vision. Are you looking for