DOI: 10.5176/2251-189X_SEES18.50
Authors: Low Siew Woon, Benson Lau
Abstract: Most of the Ethylene Tetra Fluoro Ethylene (ETFE) structures in tropical countries serve as shelter from the elements; while enhancing human comfort and optimizing the use of outdoor or atrium spaces. However inappropriate daylight control at the ETFE structures could potentially result in visual discomfort or uninteresting luminous environment. In view of lack of research and Post Occupancy Evaluation methodology on the lighting conditions of the ETFE cushion structures in tropical countries, two Semioutdoor ETFE structures: Clark Quay and China Place in Singapore were selected as research vehicles. Under sunny and overcast sky conditions, on-site luminance mappings of the ETFE structures by using HDR (High Dynamic Range) imaging technique were undertaken at different time of the year. By using a luminance conversion software, brightness contrast and visual characteristics of the selected visual fields were identified from the luminance patterns and ratios obtained from the field work. This paper presents the POE and luminance mapping methodology, light data collection and analysis process. The research findings identified the factors contributing to the distinctive luminous environments in the two selected buildings and revealed how the ETFE envelopes with ETFE films of different transparency and fritted patterns can enhance visual interest, comfort and control solar radiation, which result in significant energy saving through reduced cooling demands.
Keywords: component; Ethlyne Tetra Fluoro Ethylene (ETFE) cushions, environment performances, climate envelope, innovation materials
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