Daylighting Performance Analyzer
Calculate illuminance distribution, daylight factors, and seasonal daylighting performance for ar...
What You Can Do
You can rapidly assess daylighting performance by inputting space geometry, glazing specifications, and site climate data. The skill calculates predicted illuminance levels, daylight factors, seasonal variations, and identifies underlit zones requiring supplemental lighting. You'll synthesize complex interdependencies between window-to-wall ratios, orientation, shading devices, interior reflectances, and latitude to produce actionable design guidance for early-stage validation and compliance documentation.
Features
Calculates predicted light levels across floor plans and identifies dark zones
Computes DF compliance for residential and institutional projects against building standards
Evaluates equinox and solstice conditions to show annual daylighting variation
Tests louver spacing, depth, and tilt angle effectiveness across orientations
Analyzes performance in north-facing, east-facing, and obstructed site conditions
Quantifies ceiling, wall, and finish reflectance effects on light distribution
Validates against WELL v2, IES LM-83, and Passivhaus criteria
Side-by-side analysis of window-to-wall ratios and material options
Example Output
Example 1: Office Floorplan Daylight Factor Analysis
- South-facing perimeter: DF 3.2% (exceeds 2% threshold)
- Core zones (5m from windows): DF 0.8% (supplemental lighting needed)
- Recommendation: Add 1.2m light shelves on south facade to redirect light 6m deeper
Example 2: Seasonal Illuminance Comparison
- Winter solstice (Dec 21): 180 lux at 3m from window (below 300 lux task threshold)
- Equinox (Sept 21): 480 lux at 3m from window (exceeds 300 lux)
- Summer solstice (June 21): 720 lux (requires 70% external shading to prevent glare)
Example 3: Glazing Option Comparison
- Option A (40% WWR, standard glazing): Average DF 1.8%, 65% of space meets target
- Option B (50% WWR, low-E glazing): Average DF 2.1%, 78% of space meets target
- Recommendation: Proceed with Option B; reduces supplemental lighting energy by ~18%
What's Included
- SKILL.md instruction file with skill overview and usage parameters:
- Space Geometry Template: Input worksheet for room dimensions, window placement, and obstruction details
- Glazing Specification Checklist: Performance data input form (transmittance, U-value, solar heat gain coefficient)
- Climate Data Framework: Latitude, longitude, and seasonal sun angle reference tables
- Performance Reporting Worksheet: Illuminance mapping grid, daylight factor calculation matrix, and compliance summary checklist
Who It's For
- Architectural lighting designers — Validating daylighting strategies and preparing technical compliance documentation
- Sustainable design specialists — Ensuring WELL, Passivhaus, and net-zero energy performance targets
- Schematic/design phase architects — Comparing glazing options and aperture sizing decisions early in projects
- Code compliance consultants — Demonstrating adherence to IES daylight metrics and local building standards
- Passive house designers — Optimizing window placement and shading to maximize passive heating while managing glare
Best For
- Calculating daylight factor (DF) compliance across residential and institutional floorplans
- Comparing window-to-wall ratios, glazing materials, and orientation options quantitatively
- Assessing shading device effectiveness (louver depth, spacing, tilt angles) across seasons
- Identifying underlit zones that require hybrid lighting strategies or supplemental electric lighting
- Preparing design narratives and compliance documentation for stakeholder presentations and code review
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