Comparison of fast daylighting climate-based simulation methods for parametric design: two-phase, three-phase method and path tracing

ABSTRACT

Computer modeling and simulation are essential for predicting architectural solutions performance. When integrated into the design process; they are known as performance-based design. During the design process, fast analytical cycles are required. However, daylighting simulations are challenging due to computational processing and time requirements. This paper presents a comparative study of fast daylight simulation methods, two-phase, three-phase and path tracing, in a hypothetical commercial building located in Miami, Florida. Five types of static glass and one electrochromic glass were tested with six parametric models of a translucent horizontal shading device. Daysim was used as reference. The two-phase method produced results similar to the reference results with faster processing times for static facades. For dynamic facades, the path tracing method with the tested interface enabled faster simulations and parametric variations. However, the three-phase method yielded a lower average error.

KEYWORDS:

• Parametric facades
• daylighting simulation
• performance-based design
• facade design
• electrochromic windows

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors().

Notes

1 VSA (Vertical Shading Angle) is formed by two planes: one vertical at the base of the glass and the other formed by the farthest end of the horizontal SD to the base of the glass.

Additional information

Funding

The authors would like to thank the Research and Innovation Support Foundation of the State of Santa Catarina - Brazil - FAPESC, CNPq (Proc. 309394/2020-1), and CAPES for funding this research.