Question

When evaluating daylighting systems in terms of glare, the MOST important illumination conditions to be evaluated are those occurring?

1) when cooling loads due to solar gains are greatest.
2) when direct sunlight would penetrate the fenestration.
3) at 2-hour intervals from sunrise to solar noon.
4) at the solstices and the equinoxes.

Answer 1

The most critical times to evaluate daylighting systems for glare are when direct sunlight would penetrate the fenestration, as this can cause substantial glare and impact cooling loads.

Step-by-step explanation:

When evaluating daylighting systems in terms of glare, the most important illumination conditions to be evaluated are those occurring when direct sunlight would penetrate the fenestration. This is because direct sunlight can cause significant glare and can increase cooling loads if not properly managed.

Considering the apparent motion of the sun and its elevation during different seasons affects both the thermal and lighting characteristics within a building space. Therefore, knowledge of the sun's position during the solstices and equinoxes, as well as the impact of daylight at various elevations, is essential in architectural design to optimize for daylighting while minimizing glare and solar heat gain.