Ayman Wagdy

EVALUATING VISUAL COMFORT IN OPEN-PLAN OFFICES: EXPLORATION OF SIMPLE METHODS FOR EVALUATION AND PREDICTION

As changes to building design increase the presence of daylight in the office environment, there is an increased need to account for and manage resulting potential visual discomfort. The efficient and accurate prediction of glare is an ongoing process, and the applicability of thresholds for the classification of glare in field settings is still being evaluated. This study assesses the effectiveness of measured and simulated lighting metrics in distinguishing uncomfortable lighting conditions in a sample of long-term open-plan office occupants in a subtropical setting. Evaluated metrics both under and over-predicted glare. Implications for further examination of thresholds in field settings and the prediction of glare at the design stage are discussed.

The Balance between Daylighting and Thermal Performance Based on Exploiting the Kaleidocycle Typology in Hot Arid Climate of Aswan, Egypt

A buildings facade has significant impact on energy consumption. This paper investigates a specific facade configuration based on origami: kaleidocycle rings that can be morphed to enhance daylight uniformity and reduce total energy consumed for heating and cooling. This paper utilizes simulation techniques for identifying the most efficient daylight and thermal performance by incorporating parametric optimization using Grasshopper and Diva-for-Rhino. Analysis was conducted using the Daylight Dynamic Performance Metrics (DDPMs) specifically Spatial Daylight Autonomy (sDA) and Annual Sunlight Exposure (ASE) based on the new IES approved daylight metrics. The simulation was carried out for a south-oriented facade of an office room in Aswan, Egypt, through two phases both used genetic algorithm to drive kaleidocycle parameters. The first phase simulated daylighting for facade optimization which influenced the second phase that run to reach the balance point between daylight and thermal performance. Results demonstrate that kaleidocycle rings of 26 cm size and 64 rotation angle exceed the LEED V4 daylighting requirements and achieve a remarkable energy saving of 23% in comparison to non-optimized configuration.