| Lighting can be better analyzed and integrated in the architectural design process through computational tools. The dissertation presents a framework for a computer generated luminous environment that supports the knowledge acquisition between the theory and the practice of architectural lighting. Most of the current lighting analyses provide tenuous links to real world applications: their theory and the methodologies are based on predominantly simplified assumptions; their applications are limited; and the indicators are based on instantaneous lighting values that ignore temporal and spatial variations.; Virtual Lighting Laboratory (VLL) proposes transformations in the utilization of physically based digital images in lighting analysis and the design decision-making process. Digital images are transformed into lighting laboratory or design settings where the user possesses manipulative and predictive power over a variety of lighting parameters and indicators. Per-pixel lighting information is extracted from the high dynamic range images through virtual meters and photometry systems. Formation and utilization of these virtual meters (luminance meter, illuminance meter, contrast meter, integrating sphere, colorimeter, and scotopic meter) are demonstrated.; In the VLL, various analysis methods come together to support and complement each other. The total, regional, and per-pixel lighting data are processed through built-in functions to study the quantity, distribution, directionality, and spectral content of lighting. The current analysis techniques are thus utilized with additional advantages. The VLL also offers unique analysis options and metrics that are pertinent to the computational approach. The high resolution measuring capabilities and novel data analysis techniques lead to the exploration and generation of new lighting indices. The transformation of psychophysical experiments from laboratory environments to real world environments is supported. On the whole, the dissertation demonstrates the flexibility of capabilities within a virtual laboratory environment to handle various lighting design and analysis problems as opposed to imposing limited number of predetermined lighting tools and metrics. |
