A human-centric approach to assess daylight in buildings for non-visual health potential, visual interest and gaze behavior

Abstract

This paper introduces a novel approach for the assessment of daylight performance in buildings, venturing beyond existing methods that evaluate 2-dimensional illumination and comfort within a fixed field-of-view in order to predict human responses to light concerning non-visual health potential, visual interest, and gaze behavior in a visually immersive scene. Using a 3D rendered indoor environment to exemplify this coordinated approach, the authors assess an architectural space across a range of view directions to predict non-visual health potential, perceptual visual interest, and gaze behavior at the eye level of an occupant across an immersive field-of-view. This method allows the authors to explore and demonstrate the impact of space, time, and sky condition on three novel daylight performance models developed to predict the effects of ocular light exposure using a humancentric approach. Results for each model will be presented in parallel and then compared to discuss the need for a multi-criteria assessment of daylight-driven human responses in architecture. A parallel and comparative approach can allow the designer to adapt the architectural space based on the program use and occupants needs.

A Simulation-Based Workflow to Assess Human-Centric Daylight Performance

“…Due to the novelty of mathematical models existing in this area of occupant-centric daylight assessment, we have only begun to explore approaches to a computational evaluation. A recent study by Amundadottir et al simulated a time series of HDR renderings to assess multiple view directions for dynamic impacts of non-visual health potential, visual interest, and gaze behavior [16]. While this approach laid the groundwork for assessing dynamic changes in vertical illuminance and luminance from a human view point, it was limited to a single, fixed view position.…”

“…Generalizing the concept of a time-series simulated for a single, centralized position in space [16], this workflow has been implemented to the simulation of multiple viewpoints in space over any number of desired moments and sky conditions. While integrating perceptual and health-based performance modules in a manner that is accessible for less experienced users, the platform remains flexible for more advanced users who want to override defaults.…”

“…While a detailed mathematical description of the two prediction models described in this paper are introduced elsewhere [8,15,16], the following section will outline the implementation of these models into the proposed simulation platform.…”

“…From the fitted logistic function [8], two thresholds were determined to predict perceptions of calm and excitement (Section 3.4) in a majority percentage of the surveyed population. The application and threshold predictions of calm and excitement mentioned above are described in depth in [16].…”

Application of High-Dynamic Range Imaging Techniques in Architecture: A Step toward High-Quality Daylit Interiors?

“…Light is today recognized as the "major synchronizer of circadian rhythms to the 24-h solar day" [13]. To help designers to address the need for the building's daylight access-supporting circadian regulation, circadian daylight metrics are under development [14,15]. Thanks to the recognized benefits of daylight to the occupants, its energy-efficiency potential, and its added value for buildings, daylight remains the preferred source for lighting.…”