Simulation-based analysis of window paper effects on daylighting of traditional Beijing siheyuan

Abstract

Paper is a widely used light-transmissive material in Chinese traditional buildings. To establish and simulation methods for window paper and study the temporal and spatial features of daylighting in Beijing siheyuan, we conducted model measurements and simulations based on dynamic meteorological parameters in the main and side houses. It has been found that in comparison with glass, window paper has following features in terms of daylighting: (1) It improves the uniformity of illuminance in a room and reduces seasonal differences in illuminance; (2) It can improve ground illuminance and the illuminance at the rear wall, and reduce work plane illuminance near the window; (3) It reduces interior illuminance in general and increases the chance of glare in the main house at noon in winter. This study clarified the lighting significance of window paper and provided a reference for the application of diffuse transmissive materials with window paper-like effects.