Illuminance and Luminance Based Ratios in the Scope of Performance Testing of a Light Shelf-Reflective Louver System in a Library Reading Room

Abstract

Uncontrolled daylight brings visual and thermal problems that may result in negative interactions with user comfort, productivity, well-being, and human health. Library spaces, in which reading, writing, and computer task activities are performed, need to be well designed in terms of daylight performance to enhance user satisfaction. The focus of this study is to make a performance test of a light shelfreflective louver system to improve the visual performance conditions of a library reading room. First, the instrumental monitoring of existing daylighting conditions was performed. Second, Relux model was prepared to evaluate luminance patterns and illuminance distribution. Third, a new light shelfreflective louver system was proposed based on the insufficiencies of the simulation results. The performance of the new system was found highly satisfactory based on the findings of enhanced luminance patterns and uniformity ratios especially at the points near the windows.

Subjective and Simulation-Based Analysis of Discomfort Glare Metrics in Office Buildings with Light Shelf Systems

“…In contemporary architecture, the glass façade is so popular since it can remarkably minimize energy consumption in buildings and maximize daylight utilization as a natural energy. It is generally accepted that daylighting design and implementation in buildings can improve occupants' comfort, the efficiency of employees, and users' mental health [1,3,6,18,19,46,47,49,51,53,54,73]. However, it is necessary to consider occupants' visual discomfort due to the daylighting glare risks during the initial stage of design.…”