Architecture

PurposeThe aim of this paper is to present a parametric design method to generate optimum adaptive facades regarding occupants' comfort and building energy criteria. According to the literature review, the following questions have arisen to address the research gaps: Is it possible to have the outside view throughout the whole year without discomfort glare by utilising adaptive solar facades (ASFs)? How can architects integrate both view quality and quantity into ASF design? What is the impact of dynamic vertical shading systems mounted on south facades on the outside view, occupants' visual comfort and operational energy? How can we evaluate the view quantity through multi-layer shading systems?Design/methodology/approachIn recent years, there is a surge in demand for fully glazed buildings, motivating both architects and scholars to explore novel ideas for designing adaptive solar facades. Nevertheless, the view performance of such systems has not been fully explored espec...

Abstract Night ventilation (NV) is a productive passive cooling technique which demonstrates a high potential for reducing cooling loads and improving thermal comfort; however, its efficiency is highly contingent upon such factors as thermal energy storage. In the current building industry where utilizing lightweight structures is of paramount importance, the usage of Phase Change Materials (PCMs) as efficient lightweight thermal energy storage for NV is becoming rapidly prevalent. Although the effects of the independent variables of NV and PCMs are well-known, their interrelationship has not been clearly established. This study therefore set out to explore the correlation between PCM quantity and transition temperatures, as well as NV airflow and delta temperature, thermal insulation and the resulting energy saving. To do so, a model, validated utilizing a full-scale calorimeter, was employed for numerical simulations of three different climates. It was found that in tropical climates, coupling NV with PCMs was non-effective. Nevertheless, in sub-tropical and hot-dry climates, cooling thermostat set-points, as well as thermal insulation play a key role in defining the optimal PCM temperature utilized for NV. The optimal transitional temperature, however, is not dependent on the PCM thicknesses, but thickening PCMs raises energy saving. The use of well-insulated envelopes increases NV efficiency and stabilizes the optimal PCM transition temperature, defined as 1 °C lower than the cooling set-point temperature. It is also concluded that the importance of thermal insulation in raising NV efficiency is greater than PCM volume. Furthermore, low delta temperature and high airflow result in increasing NV efficiency; however, these phenomena have no effect on the optimal PCM meting temperature.

Abstract Objective measures of visual discomfort have the potential to quantify the individual's sensations under discomfort glare conditions although such measures have yet to be circumscribed. The present study aimed to examine the extent to which visual discomfort sensation can be both operationalised and measured, utilising many light-induced physiological measures. These measurements were coupled with visual performance evaluations, in combination with conventional measures of photometric measurements and subjective evaluations. The variables measured were mean Pupil Diameter, Pupillary Unrest Index, Blink Rate, Blink Amplitude, number of fixational eye movements during reading (Fixation Rate), and average Fixation Duration, as well as Combined Visual Performance. The results of this study indicate that most of these parameters show significant differences between high and low lighting conditions. In particular, participants in high discomfort conditions exhibited a higher Fixation Rate, lower Blink Rate, higher Blink Amplitude and a smaller Pupil Diameter than those in both low and medium discomfort conditions. In other words, the studied physiological measures can be used as an index of high levels of glare or visual discomfort. In addition, regarding subjective evaluations, the results of correlation analysis suggest that visual comfort level ratings may provide a more reliable indicator of visual discomfort sensation.

Lighting in office environments has many benefits, ranging from decreasing energy consumption to enhancing human health and well-being. However, visual discomfort such as glare has a negative impact on occupants, causing a sensation of annoyance or pain, thereby reducing user satisfaction and productivity. Current methods and metrics established for evaluating glare are mainly derived from physical measurements of luminance distribution and conventional subjective evaluations. However, significant inconsistencies and inaccuracies reported by a number of comparative studies highlight the need for a more objective method in the derivation of glare indices. This paper reviews the existing literature to provide a holistic overview of implemented methods in measuring light-induced physiological responses to objectify perceived glare. Physiological responses investigated within the reviewed literature include: pupil size, eye movement, gaze direction, degree of eye-opening, and blink rate...

ABSTRACT At 231 m2, Australia has the largest average house size in the world. For many reasons, this is unsustainable. Tiny Houses (dwellings less than 37.2 m2) are at the opposite end of the spectrum of house size. It is well understood that smaller houses use less materials than larger houses, less energy in their construction and use, and it can be argued that they produce less waste. Thus, a Tiny House is generally seen as being more sustainable than the average Australian house. However, the exaggerated reduction of size and function in some Tiny Houses means that they can end up being unliveable for many people in Australia. In contrast, Tiny Houses are the norm in many other countries. This suggests that there are many elements of choice in Australian housing that are considered a necessity. This paper investigates house size and elements of necessity and choice. It argues that to be sustainable we need to reconsider housing options. Tiny Houses could become a much larger proportion of housing stock, but the definition, understanding, design and production of the Tiny House needs to move beyond just achieving a prescribed floor area, to including the functional and amenity needs of the household occupants.

Abstract This study examined human subjects and their physiological, ocular and performance responses under different lighting conditions. The experiment was carried out in an office with daylight as its primary light source. Physiological and ocular data which were recorded by eye-tracking glasses included mean Pupil Diameter (PD), Pupillary Unrest Index (PUI), Blink Rate (BR), Blink Amplitude (BA), eye Fixation Rate (FR), and Eye Convergence (EC). Performance measures included Combined Visual Performance (CVP) and Combined Reading Performance (CRP), both critical for office workers’ overall performance and productivity at workstations. Correlation and multiple regression analysis were used to determine the relationships between glare factors and the physiological, ocular and performance measures. Data analysis suggests that PUI, BA, FR and mean PD could be used as a visual discomfort proxy. PUI and BA could be predicted better with relative glare factors (contrast), and FR and PD could be predicted better with the absolute glare factors (luminance and illuminance values). Concerning performance measures, this study identified that the CVP was negatively correlated with vertical illuminance at eye level and the average luminance. The CRP was also better when the PUI was lower.

Aesthetics, image and feedback not only shape perceptions of sustainability but also influence behaviour. 'Ibis has variously been referred to as the ‘Prius Effect’ (Wood & Skates, 2006) and 'Conspicuous Conservation' (Sexton & Sexton, 2011). Since its introduction, the Prius has received two major revisions and a facelift, and, perhaps more importantly, it has received popular support as a responsible vehicle choice for drivers who wish to minimise the impact of their driving on the environment. Leonardo Di-Caprio drives one, as do many of his celebrity friends. The Prius is no longer regarded as a small car, and a new model called the Prius 'c' has filled the gap left by the now somewhat obese standard Prius. It doesn't really look obese, as it has been streamlined further to reduce air resistance, but despite the technologically aesthetic corset it has put on weight. This effect is referred to in the automotive industry as 'The Bloat Law' (Dykes, 2...