Abstract
Daylight distribution is an essential performance parameter for building facades that aim to maximize user comfort while maintaining energy efficiency. This study investigates the feasibility of using 3D-printed thermoplastic to improve daylight distribution and transmission. To identify how geometry influences light distribution and transmission, 12 samples with various patterns were robotically fabricated. In a physical simulation of spring, summer, and winter, a robotic arm was used to direct light onto the samples in both the vertical and horizontal print pattern directions. In addition, three samples of conventional facade materials, including a polycarbonate panel, a polycarbonate sheet, and a single sheet of glass, were compared with the 3D-printed samples. All samples were examined and compared using high dynamic range imaging to qualitatively characterize luminance. The data analysis demonstrated that 3D-printed geometry can successfully generate customizable diffusive light distribution based on the needs of the user. Furthermore, the results showed that the vertical pattern direction had higher light transmission values than the horizontal pattern direction. Show more
Permanent link
https://doi.org/10.3929/ethz-b-000625540Publication status
publishedExternal links
Journal / series
3D Printing and Additive ManufacturingPublisher
LiebertSubject
3D printing; facade; daylight; light distribution; light transmission; patternOrganisational unit
03709 - Kohler, Matthias / Kohler, Matthias
03708 - Gramazio, Fabio / Gramazio, Fabio
02284 - NFS Digitale Fabrikation / NCCR Digital Fabrication
03902 - Schlüter, Arno / Schlüter, Arno
Funding
141853 - Digital Fabrication - Advanced Building Processes in Architecture (SNF)
Related publications and datasets
Documents: https://doi.org/10.3929/ethz-b-000648606
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