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Mosques, revered as sacred spaces, are distinguished by their sustainable architectural designs. A critical aspect of these designs is the implementation of daylighting strategies, essential for ensuring adequate light levels, particularly for reading the Holy Quran. Traditional daylighting typologies in mosques, such as multi-lateral lighting, clerestories, skylights, and shading devices, are widely recognized. However, the potential application of electrochromic (EC) switchable glazing within mosque architecture remains underexplored. This study delves into the effectiveness of various daylighting typologies, assessing their performance before and after the integration of EC switchable glazing in the Al-Shagroud Mosque located in Saudi Arabia. Employing comprehensive radiance simulations in accordance with the LEEDv4.1 standards, the study evaluates additional metrics including useful daylight illuminance (UDI300–3000lux), workplane illuminance (WPI), uniformity index (Ui), and daylight glare probability (DGP) under multiple scenarios. The results demonstrate that clerestory lighting effectively meets LEEDv4.1 benchmarks but exhibits limitations in achieving uniform light distribution, particularly in the men's prayer hall. In contrast, the women's prayer hall benefits from a combination of clerestory lighting and shading devices, which improves light quality and mitigates glare issues. However, the use of skylights without adequate shading leads to excessive WPI and high DGP levels, compromising visual comfort. Moreover, managing daylight quantity and quality through the integration of different typologies, including hybrid models, presents substantial challenges. The integration of EC switchable glazing, while maintaining optimal WPI and reducing DGP, offers enhanced visual comfort in prayer areas. Nevertheless, this technology faces difficulties in ensuring even light distribution, as evidenced by lower uniformity index values. This research highlights the critical need for optimizing daylighting in mosques to balance sustainability and comfort, without detracting from their sacred ambiance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Skylight is an effective strategy for maximising daylight penetration while minimising electrical lighting energy demand in buildings. However, in tropical climate regions, skylight can be problematic due to the risk of excessive sunlight. This study aimed to optimise skylight design parameters using multi-objective optimisation (MOO) approach through a case study of a low-rise building with office rooms configured to surround a skylight in the tropical climate of Yogyakarta, Indonesia. It was conducted using computational modelling and simulation with RadianceIES tools in IES-VE 2019 software. The parameters examined included skylight shape, opening area, and thickness, while the performance indicators were spatial daylight autonomy (sDA300/50%), average daylight factor (DFave), and annual sunlight exposure (ASE1000,250). The sensitivity analysis showed that skylight opening area significantly influenced daylight performance. Moreover, the optimum design, drawn from the objective function f and Pareto frontiers, was a rounded trapezium skylight with an opening area of 897 m2, achieving sDA300/50%–ASE1000,250 = 35%, DFave = 0.9%, and mean distance to the utopia point of 64.1%. These results could serve as a guide for architects and engineers in designing skylight for typical buildings.

Skylight is an effective strategy for maximising daylight penetration while minimising electrical lighting energy demand in buildings. However, in tropical climate regions, skylight can be problematic due to the risk of excessive sunlight. This study aimed to optimise skylight design parameters using multi-objective optimisation (MOO) approach through a case study of a low-rise building with office rooms configured to surround a skylight in the tropical climate of Yogyakarta, Indonesia. It was conducted using computational modelling and simulation with RadianceIES tools in IES-VE 2019 software. The parameters examined included skylight shape, opening area, and thickness, while the performance indicators were spatial daylight autonomy (sDA300/50%), average daylight factor (DFave), and annual sunlight exposure (ASE1000,250). The sensitivity analysis showed that skylight opening area significantly influenced daylight performance. Moreover, the optimum design, drawn from the objective function f and Pareto frontiers, was a rounded trapezium skylight with an opening area of 897 m2, achieving sDA300/50%-ASE1000,250 = 35%, DFave = 0.9%, and mean distance to the utopia point of 64.1%. These results could serve as a guide for architects and engineers in designing skylight for typical buildings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Railway Investigation & Surveying is the property of Railway Investigation & Surveying Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Enhancing daylighting in heritage buildings is a complex challenge that requires a delicate balance between preserving architectural integrity and improving visual comfort. This paper investigates enhancing daylight in heritage buildings, balancing preservation and visual comfort. It focuses on a 1905 heritage building undergoing reconstruction, addressing insufficient daylight on the ground floor and glare on the first floor. The study investigated novel design solutions by using simulation and optimization approaches. A multi-objective optimization algorithm, called JDEMO Algorithm (a multi-objective self-adaptive differential evolution algorithm), was utilized to obtain Pareto optimal results, and integrated with performative simulations using ClimateStudio (CS) plug-in for Grasshopper. Strategies include altering skylight glazing materials, surface materials, and using Tubular Daylight Guidance Systems (TDGS). Results show TDGS with larger diameters improve Useful Daylight Illuminance (UDI) and reduce Spatial Disturbing Glare (sDG). Material selection impacts daylight distribution, emphasizing the importance of skylight glazing materials. While specific to one case, this research has wider implications for heritage preservation and daylighting. By innovating sustainable design, it contributes to preserving heritage buildings while enhancing visual comfort.

Mosques, revered as sacred spaces, are distinguished by their sustainable architectural designs. A critical aspect of these designs is the implementation of daylighting strategies, essential for ensuring adequate light levels, particularly for reading the Holy Quran. Traditional daylighting typologies in mosques, such as multi-lateral lighting, clerestories, skylights, and shading devices, are widely recognized. However, the potential application of electrochromic (EC) switchable glazing within mosque architecture remains underexplored. This study delves into the effectiveness of various daylighting typologies, assessing their performance before and after the integration of EC switchable glazing in the Al-Shagroud Mosque located in Saudi Arabia. Employing comprehensive radiance simulations in accordance with the LEEDv4.1 standards, the study evaluates additional metrics including useful daylight illuminance (UDI300–3000lux), workplane illuminance (WPI), uniformity index (Ui), and daylight glare probability (DGP) under multiple scenarios. The results demonstrate that clerestory lighting effectively meets LEEDv4.1 benchmarks but exhibits limitations in achieving uniform light distribution, particularly in the men’s prayer hall. In contrast, the women’s prayer hall benefits from a combination of clerestory lighting and shading devices, which improves light quality and mitigates glare issues. However, the use of skylights without adequate shading leads to excessive WPI and high DGP levels, compromising visual comfort. Moreover, managing daylight quantity and quality through the integration of different typologies, including hybrid models, presents substantial challenges. The integration of EC switchable glazing, while maintaining optimal WPI and reducing DGP, offers enhanced visual comfort in prayer areas. Nevertheless, this technology faces difficulties in ensuring even light distribution, as evidenced by lower uniformity index values. This research highlights the critical need for optimizing daylighting in mosques to balance sustainability and comfort, without detracting from their sacred ambiance.

The installation of structural glass systems, such as skylights and curtain walls, may improve the aesthetic and functional value of a building. These attractive systems have practical benefits like increased efficiency and lower maintenance costs. The importance of structural analysis and design in developing safe and dependable structural glass systems is underscored by this study, which thoroughly evaluates various skylights installed at a height of 15 m located in Doha while subjecting them to a 1.6 kPa wind load. The temperature loading is determined by assuming an initial temperature of 10°C and an ultimate temperature of 50°C. Therefore, the temperature variation is ±40°C. Several acceptance requirements have been met. It is crucial to adhere to design requirements and execute extensive performance testing and verification to guarantee the safety of structural glass buildings. The research also highlights the significance of using sound foundation design and anchoring methods on-site. The findings of this study might serve as a helpful reference for façade engineers responsible for designing structural glass structures, as it highlights the significance of careful analysis, design, and verification in ensuring the safe and dependable performance of such architectural features in a wide range of buildings. The study indicates that proper design regulations and standards, coupled with the use of specialist software tools, precise three-dimensional (3D) models and simulations, and extensive performance testing and verification, are essential in guaranteeing the safety and dependability of skylights. It has been found that the final design of the skylights is safe and structurally sound; this includes the use of fully tempered double glazed unit (DGU) glass of 6 mm (inner lite) + 16 (air gap) + 13.52 (6+1.52+6 outer laminated lite), 120 mm deep Mullions and transoms, and appropriate anchoring mechanisms using chemical anchors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Building geometry design decisions are important for energy efficiency and daylight performance. Sensitivity analysis, coupled with optimization, is an important approach to investigate and optimize building geometry in the early design stage. Incorporating skylights is an important daylighting strategy in commercial buildings; however, skylight-to-floor ratio (SFR) is often the only design variable evaluated in precedent studies. More design variables related to skylight geometry, clerestory geometry, skylight material, and building geometry need to be evaluated. This study investigates the skylight design of a 2000-square-meter commercial building. Eighteen design variables are evaluated according to their influence on building energy and daylight performance. One-at-a-time (OAT), linear regression, and Morris sensitivity analysis approaches are utilized to identify the most influential variables. Seven of the twelve building geometry variables and two of the six building material variables are considered as important. Then, a multi-objective optimization with genetic algorithms is processed to find out the optimal design solution. The three objectives are energy use intensity (EUI), daylight autonomy (DA), and daylight uniformity (DU). After the optimization, five candidate design options are picked from the Pareto front. Discussions are made on the features of these designs, and one design is selected as the optimal solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of A+Arch Design International Journal of Architecture & Design is the property of A+Arch Design International Journal of Architecture & Design and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Daylight is one of the most influential parameters of visual quality, especially in spaces like art exhibitions. Skylights are proper choices to provide daylight, improve visual comfort, and reduce artificial lighting energy consumption. In this paper, the effect of the main design parameters of skylights on the visual quality is studied using DesignBuilder software. An 81 m2 exhibition area is assessed as a test case. The design variables are the skylight form, orientation, location, glazing type, and splay angle. Also, luminance uniformity, spatial daylight autonomy (sDA), and useful daylight illuminance (UDI) are used as evaluation metrics. The north-oriented curved skylight leads to the best visual quality among the studied cases based on the results. Installing the skylight on the north side of the exhibition roof is better to provide the best luminance uniformity. Besides, the results showed that triple Low-E glazing provides the most uniform and the least maximum luminance. However, it may slightly reduce sDA. Finally, although the effect of splay angle on the visual comfort indexes depends on the intended time, 45° to 60° angles work satisfactorily. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Building geometry design decisions are important for energy efficiency and daylight performance. Sensitivity analysis, coupled with optimization, is an important approach to investigate and optimize building geometry in the early design stage. Incorporating skylights is an important daylighting strategy in commercial buildings; however, skylight-to-floor ratio (SFR) is often the only design variable evaluated in precedent studies. More design variables related to skylight geometry, clerestory geometry, skylight material, and building geometry need to be evaluated. This study investigates the skylight design of a 2000-square-meter commercial building. Eighteen design variables are evaluated according to their influence on building energy and daylight performance. One-at-a-time (OAT), linear regression, and Morris sensitivity analysis approaches are utilized to identify the most influential variables. Seven of the twelve building geometry variables and two of the six building material variables are considered as important. Then, a multi-objective optimization with genetic algorithms is processed to find out the optimal design solution. The three objectives are energy use intensity (EUI), daylight autonomy (DA), and daylight uniformity (DU). After the optimization, five candidate design options are picked from the Pareto front. Discussions are made on the features of these designs, and one design is selected as the optimal solution.

Daytime passive radiative cooling (DPRC) has remained a challenge over the past decades due to the necessity of precisely defined materials with a significantly high emissivity of thermal radiation within the atmospheric transparent window wavelength range (8–13 μm) as well as high reflectivity in the solar spectrum (0.2–3 μm). Fortunately, recent advances and technological improvements in nanoscience and metamaterials are making it possible to create diverse metamaterials. This enables the production of DPRC in direct solar irradiation. The development of a material that is appropriate for effective DPRC is also a noteworthy development in this field of technology. This review gives a thorough introduction and discussion of the fundamental ideas, as well as the state-of-the-art and current trends in passive radiative cooling, and describes the cutting-edge materials and various photonic radiator structures that are useful in enhancing net cooling performance. This work also addresses a novel skylight window that offers passive cooling developed at the Åbo Akademi (ÅA) University, Finland. In conclusion, nanomaterials and nanoparticle-based coatings are preferred over all other approaches for commercialization in the future because of their low cost, the ability for large-scale production, simplicity in fabrication, and great potential for further increasing cooling performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thematic map creation is a meticulous process that requires several steps to be accomplished regardless of the type of map to be produced, from data collection, through data exploitation and map publication in print, image, and GIS format. Examples are geolithological, and geomorphological maps in which most of the highest time‐consuming tasks are those related to the discretization of single objects. Introducing also interpretative biases because of the different experience of the mappers in identifying a set of unique characteristics that describe those objects. In this setting, Deep Learning Computer Vision techniques could play a key role but lack the availability of a complete set of tools specific for planetary mapping. The aim of this work is to develop a comprehensive set of ready‐to‐use tools for landforms mapping based on validated Deep Learning methodologies and open‐source libraries. We present DeepLandforms, the first pre‐release of a toolset for landform mapping using Deep Learning that includes all the components for data set preparation, model training, monitoring, and inference. In DeepLandforms, users have full access to the workflow and control over all the processes involved, granting complete control and customization capabilities. In order to validate the applicability of our tool, in this work we present the results achieved using DeepLandforms in the science case of mapping sinkhole‐like landforms on Mars, as a first example that can lead us into multiple and diverse future applications. Plain Language Summary: The creation of maps is a complex set of several tasks that, regardless of the type of map, are often very time‐consuming. For instance, all the occurrences of a specific object, natural or man‐made in a defined area, need to be identified, drawn and classified manually. Mapping large objects in small areas is an easy task but may be unmanageable in cases such as small landforms on the entire surface of a planet. Nowadays, especially on Earth, researchers and professionals take advantages of highly specialized software based on a technique called Deep Learning. Such software are almost never free nor ready‐to‐use and often requires higher knowledge in computer programming languages. In this work, we present the first pre‐release of a novel open‐source computer software, nearly ready‐to‐use, that provides all the instruments for approaching Deep Learning for automatic landforms mapping. We present also the results obtained by trying this software using data of Mars's surface to map sinkhole‐like landforms. Key Points: Instance Segmentation methodology is used to map landforms obtaining vectorial data in geopackage file formatA newly developed composite toolset to perform image pre‐processing, data labeling, model training and inference tasks is presentedThe results of a prime case of mapping pit and skylights on Mars surface are showed [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Adapted reuse in old historical buildings has been a real challenge since the state of deterioration is usually found severe, and suggested retrofitting is applied with high delicacy to preserve the building originality. Additionally, on altering the potential users’ activity, special considerations are required to fulfill the new needs. Daylight in historical buildings has a special significance in conceiving the massive artistic content within the interior spaces, in providing visual comfort for users, and affecting the total energy performance. Objectives: The main goal is to meet the new daylight requirements in heritage building spaces, and to rely on relaxing daylight instead of artificial light sources during the day. Methods: The research is implemented in Tosson Palace, a historical palace in Egypt, where a top-lit space’s daylight performance is assessed using Rhino + Grasshopper’s Diva package, then the skylight is parametrically configured to optimize daylighting conditions using Radiance, and Daysim engines in high intensity solar climate. Optimization of skylight glazing technologies and skylight size is conducted by changing optimization parameters including the number the two perpendicular mullions grid, and mullions’ depth, which also acts as a shading element. These parameters are genetically optimized using a multi-objective octopus plugin and the optimized configuration is evaluated using LEED v4.1 in Spatial Daylight Autonomy (sDA), and Annual Sun Exposure (ASE) criteria that show both the daylight adequacy, and the comfortable daylight exposure percentages in the skylight covered space. Results: The outcomes offer guidance for heritage adapted reuse in hot climatic conditions with minimum design interventions to meet the original design and provide potential users’ comfort conditions. Furthermore, enhancement of both visual, and thermal conditions through the skylight configurations is to be studied. Conclusion: The selected optimum case succeeded in compromising the assessing metrics such that ASE was reduced by 38% from the base-case, avoiding unpleasant direct daylight, and providing protection for interior artifacts from sunlight and achieving a moderate uniform daylight distribution on both affected floors levels.

Abstract Thematic map creation is a meticulous process that requires several steps to be accomplished regardless of the type of map to be produced, from data collection, through data exploitation and map publication in print, image, and GIS format. Examples are geolithological, and geomorphological maps in which most of the highest time‐consuming tasks are those related to the discretization of single objects. Introducing also interpretative biases because of the different experience of the mappers in identifying a set of unique characteristics that describe those objects. In this setting, Deep Learning Computer Vision techniques could play a key role but lack the availability of a complete set of tools specific for planetary mapping. The aim of this work is to develop a comprehensive set of ready‐to‐use tools for landforms mapping based on validated Deep Learning methodologies and open‐source libraries. We present DeepLandforms, the first pre‐release of a toolset for landform mapping using Deep Learning that includes all the components for data set preparation, model training, monitoring, and inference. In DeepLandforms, users have full access to the workflow and control over all the processes involved, granting complete control and customization capabilities. In order to validate the applicability of our tool, in this work we present the results achieved using DeepLandforms in the science case of mapping sinkhole‐like landforms on Mars, as a first example that can lead us into multiple and diverse future applications.

In this study, we assessed a lifestyle in which occupants adjust the fittings based on climate, weather, and time, in terms of energy efficiency and thermal conditions. The proposed solution is a Zero Energy House (ZEH) with high thermal performance. The thermal performance of the building envelope can be adjusted by changing the operation of fittings based on the indoor and outdoor environments, as well as air conditioning usage. Many studies have achieved zero energy by increasing the thermal performance of an envelope and using highly efficient energy-saving facilities; however, uniquely, here we focus on occupant behavior to change the building envelope condition. In this paper, numerical analysis was used to investigate the effect of adjusting the fittings on buildings with different thermal performances of the envelope. The analysis demonstrates that, while more research into measures is needed in the summer, the adjustment of fittings and thermal storage properties in the winter season can reduce the heating load by 48–59% compared to the normal ZEH and improve the indoor environment. In terms of the heating and cooling load throughout the year, the results also showed that applying fittings adjustment and heat storage to an ordinary house can provide nearly the same energy-saving effect as a highly insulated house. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lava caves are the result of a geological process related to the cooling of basaltic lava flows. On the Moon, this process may lead to caves several kilometers long and diameters of hundreds of meters. Access to lava tubes can be granted through skylights, a vertical pit between the lava tube and the lunar surface. This represents an outstanding opportunity for long-term missions, for future permanent human settlements, and for accessing pristine samples of lava, secondary minerals and volatiles. Given this, the ESA launched a campaign through the Open Space Innovation Platform calling for ideas that would tackle the many challenges of exploring lava pits. Five projects, including Robocrane, were selected. Solar light and direct line of sight (for communications) with the lunar surface are not available inside lava tubes. This is a problem for any robot (or swarm of robots) exploring the lava tubes. Robocrane tackles both problems by deploying an element (called the Charging head, or CH) at the bottom of the skylight by means of a crane. This CH behaves as a battery charger and a communication relay for the exploring robots. The required energy is extracted from the crane's solar panel (on the surface) and driven to the bottom of the skylight through an electrical wire running in parallel to the crane hoisting wire. Using a crane allows the system to deal with unstable terrain around the skylight rim and protect the wires from abrasion from the rocky surface and the pit rim. The charger in the CH is wireless so that the charging process can begin as soon as any of the robots get close enough to the CH. This avoids complex and time-consuming docking operations, aggravated by the skylight floor orography. The crane infrastructure can also be used to deploy the exploring robots inside the pit, reducing their design constraints and mass budget, as the robots do not need to implement their own self-deployment system. Finally, RoboCrane includes all the sensors and actuators for remote operation from a ground station. RoboCrane has been designed in a parametric tool so it can be dynamically and rapidly adjusted to input-variable changes, such as the number of exploring robots, their electrical characteristics, and crane reach, etc. • The use of a crane for deploying robots inside the skylight alleviates their design. • The reach of the crane, for robots of several kilograms, may be as high as 25 m. • The use of a power wireless charger simplifies the charging operation and time. • A wired communication link between bottom and surface results in excessive weight. • A Rover-crane joint design is preferred given the similar mass between both. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Historic buildings in urban areas are valuable heritage and would require effective design for renovation to upgrade these buildings while preserving their heritage characteristics. This current study evaluated renovation requirements: loss of natural and spatial characteristics, single function and lack of building facade design, of a courtyard building in a Beijing historical district. Limitations of the 'multiple coexistence' design concept were analysed to fully achieve integration of historical, cultural, social, educational, commercial and economic values while preserving their natural characteristics. Intelligent control strategy and equipment can reshape the spatial lay out and natural environment, to enhance the building function and social value. The design strategy of the skylight to be installed in the courtyard was evaluated by simulation in this study. CFD simulation results show that the air temperature in the courtyard can increase 20% by incorporating a skylight that can be automatically closed in winter. During the summer, the skylight would be open to largely reduce the average air temperature by 1.2°C. The visual impact of external equipment can be mitigated by adding decoration to the courtyard facade. The findings should inform future development of a new design concept, to provide design paradigms for the renewal and renovation of similar historic buildings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Daytime passive radiative cooling (DPRC) has remained a challenge over the past decades due to the necessity of precisely defined materials with a significantly high emissivity of thermal radiation within the atmospheric transparent window wavelength range (8–13 μm) as well as high reflectivity in the solar spectrum (0.2–3 μm). Fortunately, recent advances and technological improvements in nanoscience and metamaterials are making it possible to create diverse metamaterials. This enables the production of DPRC in direct solar irradiation. The development of a material that is appropriate for effective DPRC is also a noteworthy development in this field of technology. This review gives a thorough introduction and discussion of the fundamental ideas, as well as the state-of-the-art and current trends in passive radiative cooling, and describes the cutting-edge materials and various photonic radiator structures that are useful in enhancing net cooling performance. This work also addresses a novel skylight window that offers passive cooling developed at the Åbo Akademi (ÅA) University, Finland. In conclusion, nanomaterials and nanoparticle-based coatings are preferred over all other approaches for commercialization in the future because of their low cost, the ability for large-scale production, simplicity in fabrication, and great potential for further increasing cooling performance.

In this study, we assessed a lifestyle in which occupants adjust the fittings based on climate, weather, and time, in terms of energy efficiency and thermal conditions. The proposed solution is a Zero Energy House (ZEH) with high thermal performance. The thermal performance of the building envelope can be adjusted by changing the operation of fittings based on the indoor and outdoor environments, as well as air conditioning usage. Many studies have achieved zero energy by increasing the thermal performance of an envelope and using highly efficient energy-saving facilities; however, uniquely, here we focus on occupant behavior to change the building envelope condition. In this paper, numerical analysis was used to investigate the effect of adjusting the fittings on buildings with different thermal performances of the envelope. The analysis demonstrates that, while more research into measures is needed in the summer, the adjustment of fittings and thermal storage properties in the winter season can reduce the heating load by 48–59% compared to the normal ZEH and improve the indoor environment. In terms of the heating and cooling load throughout the year, the results also showed that applying fittings adjustment and heat storage to an ordinary house can provide nearly the same energy-saving effect as a highly insulated house.

• Daylighting research that balances visual comfort within galleries and the protection of exhibits. • The point skylight system and museum architecture were chosen as the subjects of study. • ACI, UDI, and DA were selected as research parameters for comprehensive analysis. • Parametric software and genetic algorithms were employed for modeling, daylight simulation, and multi-objective optimization. In the realm of museum design, the meticulous planning of natural lighting plays a vital role in enhancing energy efficiency, improving the indoor atmosphere, and preserving and showcasing artifacts. A significant challenge is to ensure visitors' visual comfort while minimizing excessive natural light to prevent damage to exhibits. This study takes Renzo Piano's High Museum Expansion as a case study and employs the medium sensitivity exhibit standards from IESNA as the evaluation criteria. During the preliminary design phase, computer modeling was utilized, daylighting simulations were carried out using the Ladybug tool, and the Octopus genetic algorithm plugin was applied to investigate, optimize, and evaluate the performance of the point skylight system in museum interiors. The findings indicate that optimized point skylight systems not only block direct sunlight, reducing indoor glare, but also ensure that the Annual Cumulative Illuminance (ACI) on interior surfaces stays below 480,000 lx, while the annual effective Useful Daylight Illuminance (UDI) is increased to 75 %. In terms of design parameters, a skylight height of 0.6 to 0.7 m, combined with a shading panel to horizontal angle of 65 to 70 degrees, is found to be effective in enhancing indoor lighting conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article considers the relationship between the architectural renovation plans by the Popes and the outbreak of religious protest and the Reformation. It describes the personality of Ignatius of Loyola, very typical of his birthplace, and how it inspired the features of the religious order which he founded, as well as the influence that Ignatian spirit had on the Mannerist and Baroque architecture of sixteenth-century Rome. With the pastoral success of the Society having been consolidated, the paper explains how its superior generals decided to build a commemorative building in Loyola designed by an Italian who had never set foot in the town, and the difficulties later experienced by the local masters in interpreting and materialising the plan, whose laborious funding coincided with times of bankruptcy for the promoting entity, the Spanish Crown. It ends by considering the relations of the reverend fathers with the province and the vicissitudes of their hazardous and fluctuating presence in it, to this day. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The five-star luxury Hotel Ritz in Madrid is currently under refurbishment. The works include the construction of a new large skylight above the main hall inspired on the original design. This paper focus on the design and construction of this skylight which consist of 2 different parts, the Hall Bajo with a vault shape, and the Hall Alto which is a trapezoidal dome crowned by a pyramid roof. The structure consists in slender steel welded T profiles and small rectangular plates which connects the main beams. The connections between the structural members are welded in order to obtain a rigid connection. The perimeter consists in a welded RHS beam which creates a stiff tension ring which is completed by a visible cable. The pyramid roof performs as a compression ring for the in-plane loads and as a Vierendeel beam for the vertical loads. The cladding is composed of flat and cylindrical insulating glass panes. A geometric study is carried out in order to define the cylindrical surface that better fits a spherical frame. Some panes are structural, providing stability to the slender profiles. To guarantee the tight geometric tolerances required the structure is divided into modules, which also facilitates the transport.

In the architecture of the mosque, the light entering into the dome is a functional necessity and due to the structure, the weight of the dome and its one or more shells has caused limitations in any kind of skylights to be encumbered. The research main question is that due to the mechanism of the dome parts, how the creation and the entering of skylights to the dome were done. The research method is a combination of both quantitative and qualitative methods. Initially, based on library studies, researcher's opinions were investigated and by analyzing 14 types of mosques from the Seljuk to the Qajar era in Iran, analyzes on how to create skylights through the dome were accomplished. This research answer two essential questions which are what principles had been followed for locating skylight in the dome? Moreover, how did light enter through the dome, in one-shell and two-shell domes? The findings show that in the one-shell domes, the position of the skylight is variable. In detached two-shell domes, the skylights are placed merely in 45° areas and are not limited in terms of numbers. Conclusions state that one-shell domes had a restriction to the number of skylights, in comparison to the two-shell domes. In detached twoshell domes, lighting was possible until the 22.5° area and considering no limitations, there has been no skylight in the area between 67.5° to 90° apart from a few exceptions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Skylight poses significant risks on light-irresponsive historical sites in archaeology museum. • An integrated analysis way was proposed to assess the impacts of natural lighting on historical site. • The specifications on illuminance and annual exposure for light-insensitive artifacts should be reconsidered. • Roof skylight should be rationally designed in archaeology museum to avoid sunlight directly hitting historical sites. Most historical sites in archaeological museums have an inorganic origin. According to the specifications prescribed in CIE 157: 2004, these inorganic collections are light-insensitive and can be preserved in an environment without any light restrictions. Roof skylights are therefore widely used in archaeological museums in China to provide natural lighting and reduce lighting energy consumption. However, many of the historical sites in these archaeological museums are not preserved as well as expected due to their unique soil-air coupled preservation environment and the transmission of sometimes intense sunlight into the relic preservation area. This research takes Chengdu Jiangnan Pavilion Street Site Museum as a case study to evaluate the influence of skylights and direct sunlight on historical sites within archaeological museums. An integrated analysis of the negative impact of skylights on historical sites was implemented by comparing the preservation environment in illuminated and non-illuminated areas. The results show that the light intensity at the illuminated area is more than 100 times at the non-illuminated area, the intense sunlight not only induces severe environmental fluctuations where the maximum daily change in temperature and RH reach 9.7 °C and 24%, respectively, but, under the damp conditions at this site, also accelerates salt accumulation at the site surface and stimulates moss growth. Strong sunlight through a skylight can result in deterioration even of light-insensitive historical sites within archaeological museums, and so skylights in archaeological museums should be rationally designed to avoid sunlight directly hitting the surface of historical sites housed within them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A "Plant factory" is one of the advanced facilities for vegetable cultivation in an artificially controlled environment, i.e., temperature, humidity, and CO2 concentration are controlled. Recently, it has become popular in Japan, USA, China and others. However, there are some problems to overcome before they become widespread. A project to develop a specific plant factory called the "Okinawa-type plant factory" has been funded by the Okinawa Prefecture. It addresses the severe environmental and social conditions of Okinawa. The main goal of the project was to reduce energy consumption by 30%. To achieve this, three methods were investigated using solar energy and LED lamps, since this plant factory used artificial illumination. Forty foot reefer containers were employed for the cultivation room, and insulation panels were partially used. Solar energy was used for lighting and air-conditioning. Solar energy was converted to thermal energy for air-conditioning using heat collecting panels. Hot water of 75-85 oC obtained by the collector was used for adsorption refrigeration. Sunlight was introduced in the cultivation room from the skylight windows. DC to DC system was also employed for photovoltaic utilization. The use of solar energy and LED lamps are effective to reduce energy consumption. A 30% reduction in energy use was achieved.

Four seasons of documentation have supplied pertinent data to indicate that theMain Sanctuary of Amun-Re in the Temple of Hatshepsut in Deir el-Bahari was perceived froma theological perspective as a cult place for the local form of Foremost of +sr-Dsrw and for the royalworship of Hatshepsut connected with it. The latter aspect was of sufficient significance to warrant twice a far-going modification of the decoration of the tympanum of the east wall of the Bark Hall, influencing the way the Inner Sanctuary was illuminated.

Objective: To review the safety, efficacy, and tolerability of fezolinetant for the treatment of vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause. Data Sources: A literature search was conducted through PubMed using the following search terms: fezolinetant, ES259564, SKYLIGHT, vasomotor symptoms, and menopause. Study Selection and Data Extraction: Selected articles included those which described clinical studies of the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, efficacy, safety, or tolerability of fezolinetant. Data Synthesis: Fezolinetant works by inhibiting neurokinin B from binding to its receptor in the hypothalamus, thereby decreasing the occurrence of vasomotor symptoms. Clinical trials have demonstrated fezolinetant is superior to placebo in decreasing the frequency and severity of vasomotor symptoms. Common adverse effects associated with the use of fezolinetant include headache and gastrointestinal disturbances, as well as elevations in liver transaminase levels. Conclusions: Clinical practice guidelines for the treatment of vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause recommend hormone therapy as the most effective treatment option. Risks associated with hormone use may limit the use of this option in some patients. Neurokinin B inhibitors, like fezolinetant, target the physiologic cause of vasomotor symptoms. With the approval of fezolinetant, as well as elinzanetant which is currently in phase 3 clinical trials, providers and patients have additional nonhormonal treatment options for vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause., Competing Interests: The author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article., (© The Author(s) 2023.)

From the Piranesi fantastic architectures to the animation movies and video games of the last thirty years, a new design approach has been introduced and developed: the design of the virtual space. Designing the "virtual" means experiencing a multidisciplinary approach where architecture, engineering, and urban planning meet the new horizons of information and communication technology. This study is focused on virtual space, which is an underground city. Mankind have always made and used underground environments: the possibilities of unlimited spaces to potential development, the reduced needs for raw materials for the construction and the protection from outdoor weather are some of the reasons that prompted humans to the realization of underground spaces in the past. These reasons and the availability of innovative technologies could encourage a breakthrough in the realization of new underground environments. A recent example is represented by the Underground City of Montreal (RÉSO). We present the architectural design of a virtual underground city, which is called Arch[ane], and its evaluation. The underground city is modular and the studied module is composed of eight floors with a total depth of 400 m and dimensions of 800 m × 800 m. The study comprises the evaluation of the effect of sunlight on each eight floors of the city. Daylighting simulations were performed considering different cities at different latitudes, days, and hours. The results have shown that the particular design of the underground city with skylights gives significant values of illuminance at a certain depth. Furthermore, the simulation results show how huge can be the potentialities of software to simulate extremely big environments.

Abstract The Semitransparent Photovoltaic (STPV) module could replace the glazing materials of the skylight in residential buildings, which minimizes the energy consumption in artificial lighting, heating, and cooling load of the building. In this study, the electrical, thermal and daylight performance of STPV skylights are investigated for actual outdoor environmental condition by installing it on the rooftop window of the experimental room at Kovilpatti (9°10′0″N, 77°52′0″E), Tamilnadu, India. The STPV modules are specially designed and fabricated for the skylight with specific PV cell coverage ratio (PVCCR) values are 0.62, 0.72, and 0.85. The various parameters are analysed such as power generation, electrical efficiency, module surface temperatures, solar heat gain, and reduction in cooling load, illuminance, daylight factor and CO 2 mitigation by the STPV skylights. It is revealed that the maximum daylight factor of 4% and indoor illuminance of 850 lux is obtained in 0.62 PVCCR and reduction in cooling load due to the installation of PV skylight is calculated as 248 kWh/year during summer. On observation, it is found that the overall maximum energy saving potential is 450 kWh/year for 0.72 PVCCR, and its unit cost of the power generation is estimated as 0.0354 $/kWh. Highlights • STPV skylights with specific PV cell coverage ratio (0.62, 0.72 and 0.85) is investigated. • The effect of STPV skylight in building is compared with clear glass window. • The optimum PVCCR ratio of daylight and reduction in cooling load is 0.72. • The energy metrics and economic analysis of the STPV skylights are investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Speculation on near-term scientific reasons for the exploration of lunar pits is offered alongside comments on possible longer-term human exploitation. It is proposed that in order to determine whether or not one or more of the pits offer access the large subsurface voids e.g. a non-collapsed lava tube, a preliminary reconnaissance mission solely focused on obtaining lateral images (and/or LiDAR maps) is needed. Possible concept options for such a preliminary reconnaissance mission are discussed. It is suggested that one of the best possible strategies is to employ a micro-sized probe (~0.3 m) that would hop from a nearby main landing spacecraft to the selected pit. After the surface position of the main lander is determined accurately, the probe would perform a ballistic hop, or hover-traverse, a distance of ~3 km over the lunar surface using existing propulsive and guidance technology capability. Once hovering above the pit, the probe or a separate tethered imaging unit would then be lowered into the pit to acquire the necessary subsurface void topology data. This data would then be transmitted back to Earth, directly, via the lander, or via a store-and-forward orbiting relay. Preliminary estimates indicate that a probe of ~14 kg (dry mass) is viable using a conventional hydrazine monopropellant system with a propellant mass fraction of less than ~0.2 (20%) including margins, suggesting a piggyback architecture would be feasible. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

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Even though digital simulation technology has been widely used in the last two decades, hardware-in-the-loop (HWIL) simulation is still an indispensable method for spectral uncertainty research of ground targets. However, previous facilities mainly focus on the simulation of panchromatic imaging. Therefore, neither the spectral nor the spatial performance is enough for hyperspectral simulation. To improve the accuracy of illumination simulation, a new dome-like skylight simulator is designed and developed to fit the spatial distribution and spectral characteristics of a real skylight for the wavelength from 350 nm to 2500 nm. The simulato's performance was tested using a spectroradiometer with different accessories. The spatial uniformity is greater than 0.91. The spectral mismatch decreases to 1/243 of the spectral mismatch of the Imagery Simulation Facility (ISF). The spatial distribution of radiance can be adjusted, and the accuracy of the adjustment is greater than 0.895. The ability of the skylight simulator is also demonstrated by comparing radiometric quantities measured in the skylight simulator with those in a real skylight in Beijing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]