Dynamic simulation and analysis of daylighting factors for gymnasiums in mid-latitude China

Energy-conscious design of gymnasium daylighting can contribute to significant energy savings and improve usersʹ playing environment. The purpose of this research is to assess the relative impact of 22 different design factors on interior daylighting effects, and to formulate design recommendations for gymnasiums in mid-latitude area of China. Each factor with very high impact: dates, latitude, window position, glazing transmittance, building height, building depth and window area were simulated under the constraints of gymnasium illumination and illumination uniformity. The window area, which has the direct relationship with daylighting, is considered as the evaluation standard for the daylighting performance of other influence factors. A complex interdependence among these daylighting factors was found. By considering daylighting and energy-saving in combination, ‘Autumnal Equinox’ at 16:00 was identified as an appropriate daylighting design date and time. Side windows are not suitable for gymnasium daylighting except in designs where there is no seating. For small gymnasiums with no seats, the lighting performance of side-windows is most influenced by glazing transmittance, building height and depth. For all sizes of gymnasium skylights, the influential factors are glazing transmittance and building height. A simplified formula was obtained via linear regression, which enables architects to quickly calculate the required window area during the preliminary design phase.