1- Laval Virtual Center Lab, LAMPA Laboratory, ENSAM (École Nationale Supérieure d’Arts et Métiers), Laval, France , aida.lebasi@gmail.com
2- Department of Architecture, Faculty of Art and Architecture, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran
Abstract:
Daylighting in educational spaces enhances energy efficiency and indoor comfort. This study investigates the optimization of light shelves in classrooms to improve lighting conditions, reduce glare, and enhance energy performance. Using simulation tools like Rhino, Grasshopper, Honeybee, and Ladybug, we modelled a representative classroom in Hamedan, Iran, to analyse the impact of light shelf configurations on Useful Daylight Illuminance (UDI), Glare Autonomy (GA), and total energy load. We employed a genetic algorithm to explore various configurations and identify optimal solutions. The results indicate that well-designed light shelves significantly improve UDI and reduce discomfort glare, particularly during morning and midday hours. The optimized configurations also showed a slight reduction in total energy load, demonstrating the dual benefits of enhanced daylighting and energy efficiency. Optimized light shelves increased UDI by up to 2.76% and reduced GA by up to 14.13% compared to the base case without shelves. These findings underscore the importance of precise dimensioning and angling of light shelves, tailored to specific lighting conditions at different times of the day. This study offers valuable insights for architects and designers aiming to create comfortable and energy-efficient learning environments, contributing to the broader field of sustainable building design.