Distance daylighting and digital fabrication

Abstract

In this paper we assess the use of digital fabrication for a distance daylighting course. Precise scale-model components were digitally-fabricated locally to facilitate assessment and photodocumentation of solar access and Daylight Factor (DF). The goal is to extend, globally, use of limited, local daylighting laboratory tools. If successful, a wider distant student and professional audience could be served from the limited facilities that offer physical assessments. Based on distance introductory lectures, seven distant student teams developed digital threedimensional model files to specify sidelighting and toplighting schemes for a school classroom project. At the local site, the files were translated into two-dimensional pattern files to digitally-fabricate architectural scale model components. Following assembly, each completed scale model was tested (also at the local site) for solar access, using an adjustable-table heliodon, and Daylight Factor, using a mirror box. Documentation of each local assessment, returned to each distant team, included a video file (solar access), still images (solar access and DF), and a digital contour map (DF). This enabled the distant teams to compare, for example, solar access given by digital modelling vs. physical scale models. The differences engendered vigorous online review discussions. Suggested changes to improve the process are discussed.