Clarity Of View Research Articles

Glare-based selection of roller shade properties

This paper presents a measurement-aided modeling workflow for selecting roller shade properties that can significantly reduce the risk of glare, using limited BSDF data. The annual visual discomfort frequency, computed from image-based DGP analysis through the year, is parameterized by listed shade properties (openness factor and total visible transmittance) for practical relevance. The method integrates detailed daylight modeling (Radiance 5PM) and light transmission models through roller shades (Radiance aBSDF with PE), a revised analytical transmission model using limited BSDF data, and a process for refining upper bounds of recommended properties. We discuss errors in analytical models for characterizing bidirectional scattering of shades, proper selection of cut-off angles, sensitivity of results to glare criteria and thresholds, and the impact of the peak extraction algorithm and image resolution. The Radiance-aBSDF with peak extraction should be used for materials with a see-through component that corresponds to view clarity index higher than 10 %.Recommended upper bounds of shade properties, graphically illustrated in openness-transmittance 2-D charts, are presented for different locations, orientations and view directions, for dark, medium and light-colored shades in each case. The boundary of recommended properties depends on the balance between contrast- and adaptation-based discomfort glare, determined by the shade properties, climate and orientation. The results were also compared with glare control classes defined in Standard EN 14501 and pronounce the need for new guidelines and standards on climate-based selection of shading properties. Targeted new BSDF measurements and field studies on glare, view and overall daylight quality will improve current models and allow optimal climate-based selection of fenestration products.

Assessing the impact of glazing and window shade systems on view clarity

Windows provide access to daylight and outdoor views, influencing building design. Various glazing and window shade materials are used to mitigate glare, overheating and privacy issues, and they affect view clarity. Among them, we evaluated the effect of window films, electrochromic (EC) glass, and fabric shades on view clarity. We conducted an experiment with 50 participants using visual tests adapted from clinical vision tests (visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, color sensitivity) and images displayed on a computer monitor in a controlled laboratory. Window films and EC glass tints outperformed fabric shades in visual acuity, contrast sensitivity and view satisfaction with the exception of the darkest EC tint state and dark grey VLT 3% shade for color sensitivity and view satisfaction. The EC tints pose internal reflection issues and fabric shades are preferred for visual privacy. Window films and EC glass hinder participants’ blue–green color discrimination while fabric shades also decrease red–yellow color discrimination. Visual acuity predicts view satisfaction and contrast sensitivity is the strongest predictor for visual privacy. Generally, higher visible light transmittance and lower solar reflectance (darker color) enhance human visual performance. The proposed workflow provides an experimental procedure, identifies the primary variables and establishes a predictive framework for assessing view clarity of fenestration.

The design of window shades and fenestration for view clarity

The design of window shades and fenestration for view clarity

Evaluating the impact of bird collision prevention glazing patterns on window views

Optimal design of bird collisions prevention glazing patterns is pivotal in the protection of avian ecology and provision of quality window views for building occupants. However, a research gap currently exists regarding the impact of different pattern designs on the quality of window views. Therefore, this study evaluates the influence of various bird collision prevention pattern designs on window view clarity. A total of 18 patterns, including dot matrix, vertical stripes, and horizontal stripes, were designed and evaluated. The patterns had varying combinations of coverage rates and spacing ratios. Sixty participants were recruited to participate in an experimental survey using virtual reality (VR) technology. They were asked to rate the level of clarity of window views observed through different glazing pattern designs. The results indicated that the bird collision prevention glazing pattern designs significantly influenced occupants’ perception of visual clarity. Designs featuring horizontal and vertical stripes attained higher visual clarity ratings compared to the dot matrix pattern. Additionally, visual clarity significantly decreased with increasing coverage rates and designs with larger spacing ratios were associated with higher clarity than smaller spacing ratios. Most participants were willing to sacrifice window view quality in order to minimize bird fatalities. These findings can guide the development of window view evaluation criteria in existing green building standards, by accounting for the trade-off between avian conservation and window view clarity.

Simulation of daylight availability, visual comfort and view clarity for a novel window system with switchable blinds in classrooms

The presence of daylight reflections on blackboards in classrooms can be disruptive to students and negatively impact their visual comfort and learning efficiency. A novel window system with switchable blinds has been specifically designed to balance daylight availability, visual comfort, and adequate window view in classrooms. This study aims to develop a validated simulation method to assess the daylighting performance of the novel window system in these three domains. Radiance-based simulation using bidirectional scattering distribution function (BSDF) data was developed and validated against experimental measurements in a test room. Daylight autonomy (DA) was used as the criterion for daylight availability, while the contrast ratio on the board was used to evaluate the disturbing light reflections on it. The simulation results show that, regardless of the classroom orientation (south/east/west), the novel window system with switchable blinds can: a) successfully meet the LEED requirements for spatial daylight autonomy (sDA) > 55%; b) reduce the low-contrast areas on the blackboard by adaptively switching the blinds, and c) maintain a satisfactory openness of the window with a clear image of the exterior. The studied window system with switchable blinds can provide a sensible balance between daylight availability, visual comfort, and view. The method of rating visual comfort in classrooms using contrast ratio on the blackboard was demonstrated to be feasible and applicable.

User assessment of fabric shading devices with a low openness factor

Providing adequate glare protection and a view to the outside through fabric shading devices is challenging because these two objectives require conflicting material properties for a fully lowered shading. In a semi-controlled office-like experiment involving 32 participants, we investigated four types of neutrally-colored fabrics (charcoal and gray) with Openness Factors (OF) smaller than 7% focussing on view clarity, discomfort glare with the sun in the field of view, and participants' behavior when it comes to blind control. The results show that fabrics with OF<3% could provide adequate glare protection but no satisfactory view out. The charcoal-colored fabric with OF>6% resulted in lower glare protection but higher quality of view out. Our results show inconsistencies with the EN14501 blind classifications for glare and visual contact (i.e., view clarity), but acceptable agreement with the view clarity index, especially for the fabrics with the highest light transmittance. During the final session, three quarters of participants raised the blinds to allow an average of 10° view to the outside, reporting as primary motivations the wish for more light and view out. Despite the relatively small rise of the fabric (15% of the total shade), daylight levels and view out were significantly improved, suggesting that operable blinds should not be controlled nor described according to the "all-or-nothing" approach. The change in fabric height did not compromise glare perception. These results suggest that if the control of shading height is effectively provided to occupants, then the fabric material could be selected primarily based on glare requirements.

Multi-criteria decision making for adaptive façade optimal design in varied climates: Energy, daylight, occupants’ comfort, and outdoor view analysis

Adaptive façades can enhance interior environmental quality and reduce building energy expenditure. To this end, counterbalancing numerous objectives must be considered during the early stage. However, there remain challenges in this high-performance access, leading to difficulties in obtaining the final design solution. Therefore, this study aims to establish a robust design decision-making process for adaptive façade systems in actual commercial building scales. Firstly, the parametric simulation was implemented in varied climates, simultaneously integrating daylight, energy, and occupants' view analysis. Five comprehensive objectives of maximising daylighting and view quality whilst minimising energy use, thermal discomfort, and visual discomfort were assessed, in which the most challenging criterion, outdoor view, was built precisely upon three all-inclusive facets: view context, view access, and view clarity. Then, the robust multi-criteria decision-making framework was applied to determine the unique optimal design for each selected region with preferences sensitivity analysis. Simulation results revealed that climatic conditions, materials, and configurations significantly impact adaptive façade performance. Meanwhile, optimal design results showed that building energy can save as much as 17% compared to the average design values. Although daylighting and outdoor view criteria meet current building standards, it suggested proper architectural layouts to accomplish the most occupants’ comfort. • The parametric simulation was integrated for adaptive façades in varied climates. • Maximising daylight and view whilst minimising energy use and occupants' discomfort. • The proposed outdoor view factor comprised view context, access, and clarity. • Multi-criteria decision making was investigated by preferences sensitivity analysis. • The optimal designs found complied with current building performance standards.

A Computed Tomography Reconstruction Software To Model Ventricular Assist Device Implantation Position

<h3>Introduction</h3> As ventricular assist device (VAD) technology continues to evolve, the target population for left and right sided support continues to grow. Therefore the degree of variability in cardiac anatomy and geometry in potential VAD recipients is likely to increase. Studying the cardiac geometry in relation to HeartMate 3 or HVAD device dimensions can help preoperative evaluation for ideal cannulation placement, and thereby potentially improve long term outcomes. Aims: Our project aims to develop a program that virtually models a VAD into the three-dimensional-rendering of the myocardium and chest using computed tomography images. <h3>Methods and Results</h3> We created a Python code process, a 4D retrospective cardiac CT dataset and then integrated a high definition 3D VAD model. Rather than creating a full-fledged viewer and analytics tool, which would be too costly and time-intensive, we created a tool that can be used to complement the capabilities of professional imaging processing software such as 3mensio or Visage (Figure 1 Demonstrates the program graphical user interface). The user can adjust the viewer to better isolate the heart prior to simulated VAD implant placement. The DICOM directories produced by our program can be opened directly in the software already used in daily clinical imaging to allow for more in-depth analysis of desired implant placement and cannula positioning, which can aid in pre-operative and intra-operative planning. <h3>Conclusions</h3> The next steps of the project will be to enable VAD implant model to be propagated across the 3D scan time series, increase computational efficiency and view clarity, as well as output the resulting DICOM directory so it can be opened in Visage or a similar tool. In a future version of the project, we will include an automatic placement feature and fluid dynamic analysis to validate the proposed implant location.

Evaluation of view clarity through solar shading fabrics

There is extensive literature showing the effect of solar shading devices on energy savings, preventing overheating and achieving occupants’ visual comfort in highly glazed office spaces. Nevertheless, solar protection devices can also significantly diminish the visual contact with the outside. This work evaluates the view to the outside through exterior solar shading fabrics and provides new data for development of a revised View Clarity Index. 50 subjects evaluated their view to the outside through nine fabrics of different colors and openness factors (OF) mounted on windows of identical test cells. In parallel, interior and exterior vertical and horizontal illuminances were monitored along with fabric luminance during each experiment. It was observed that the view to the outside was highly influenced by the fabric OF and color. The higher the OF and the darker the fabric, the clearer the view to the outside. However, their combined effect is quite complex. Interestingly, view clarity through the dark-colored fabric with OF=3% was estimated better than that of the light-colored fabrics with OF=10%. Based on the new data, a revised formula for the View Clarity Index (VCI) is proposed for predicting view clarity through fabrics, based on the normal-normal and normal-diffuse light transmittance factors of the material. Finally, the new findings show that the current performance classification scheme of the European standard EN 14501 needs further refinement. New classes are proposed as valuable information towards accurate assessment of outside view through fabrics in future revisions of the standard.

Comparative evaluation of a new frugal binocular indirect ophthalmoscope

ObjectivesWe compare the optical quality and design characteristic a new low cost solar powered binocular indirect ophthalmoscope (BIO), Holo, to Keeler BIO.MethodsTwenty-four participants each examined 10 simulation eyes using both the Holo and the Keeler BIO with a 30-diopter condensing lens. Number of Lea symbols printed on the retina of simulation eyes seen and time taken to identify them was recorded. Stereoacuity of 12 participants was tested while using the BIOs. Using 7-point Likert scale, participants gave feedback on design characteristic of both BIOs.ResultsThere was no statistical difference in number of Lea symbols correctly identified (15.63/20 for Holo vs. 15/20 for Keeler BIO, p = 0.366, paired t test) or time taken to correctly identify each symbol (Holo 0.39 s faster; 95% confidence interval −2.24 to 3.03 s, p = 0.763) using each device. 12 out of 12 participants achieved stereoacuity of 60 arcsec using the Holo while with the Keeler BIO 11 achieved 60 arcsec and one 90 arcsec. There was no statistically significant difference in the scores for clarity of view, quality of illumination, field of view, binocularity, eye strain and robustness between the two devices. The Holo, scored higher for ease of use (6.5 vs. 6, p = 0.00488, Wilcoxon signed-rank test), comfort of wear (6 vs. 5, p = 0.000337) and portability (7 vs. 6, p = 0.000148).ConclusionThe Holo has the potential to be a clinically useful yet affordable diagnostic tool suitable for the first time of equipping eye care workers in low resource settings with a BIO at volume.

Utility of under-gel endoscopic mucosal resection with partial submucosal injection for a laterally spreading tumor.

Conventional endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) is a widely used technique in the treatment of colorectal tumors. When resecting laterally spreading tumors (LSTs) with conventional EMR, the distal edge is difficult to dissect and tends to be piecemealed. However, the nongranular pseudodepressed type (LST-NG-PD) has a high risk of malignancy, requiring en bloc resection [1]. Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) can ensure high en bloc resection rates, but it also has drawbacks such as high perforation rates, high cost, and long procedure times. Binmoeller et al. introduced underwater EMR (UEMR) as a useful alternative to ESD for LSTs [2]; however, treating the distal end remains a challenge and could cause segmental resection. In addition, the use of water in UEMR may impair clarity of view if bleeding occurs. Partial submucosal injection improves visualization of the distal edge [3], and gel immersion improves the endoscopic visual field [4] [5]. Here, we report that under-gel EMR with partial submucosal injection is an effective means of achieving en bloc resection of LST-NG-PD ([Video 1]).

Roller blinds characterization assessing discomfort glare, view outside and useful daylight illuminance with the sun in the field of view

This research presents an experiment where the relationship between view outside (VO), daylight availability (DA) and glare protection (GP) of nine shading fabrics were evaluated. This kind of shading device is placed on the market (Argentina) without a proper characterization of their lighting performance, leading to an inadequate application. Glare was evaluated through DGP model, by means of HDRI technique, calibrated through externally measured luminance and validating with vertical illuminance. Vision outside was evaluated through the View Clarity Index (VCI) and daylight availability was assessed through Useful Daylight llluminance (UDI) dynamic daylight metric. Finally, two roller blind selection procedure were proposed. The first one considering each parameter independently (GP, VO and DA) and the second criteria, weighing the scores through a ternary plot.

Microscopic Versus Endoscopic Myringotomy with/without Grommet Insertion

Aim: Otitis Media with Effusion (OME) in children requires myringotomy, which is usually done under microscope. Use of endoscope in ear surgeries has increased. So we compared outcome of myringotomy under microscope and endoscope.Patients and Methods: Time bound descriptive non-randomized study was done in a tertiary care hospital on 3-13 year’s old children with OME, with ‘B’ type tympanogram. Myringotomy ± grommet insertion was done either under microscope or endoscope. Primary outcome observed was time taken for various steps of procedure. Additional observations like narrow canal, overhang and injury of ear canal; visualization of entire tympanic membrane (TM), satisfactory clarity of view and depth perception were noted.Results: Out of 33 patients, 18 and 13 underwent procedure under microscope and endoscope respectively. Time for myringotomy on right side under microscope was 80.73 seconds, under endoscope was 30.63 seconds (P < 0.001); on left side under microscope was 59.08 seconds, under endoscope was 35.41 seconds (P < 0.001). Time between procedure on one ear and contralateral ear was 151.53 seconds under microscope and 60.23 seconds under endoscope (P < 0.001). Endoscopic grommet insertion took longer than microscopic technique on right ear (P=0.037). Under endoscope, ability to visualize entire TM, satisfactory clarity of view and depth perception were statistically significant (P < 0.001).Conclusion: Less operative time, satisfactory depth perception, clarity of field and visualizing of entire TM make myringotomy ± grommet insertion with endoscope a better alternative than microscopic procedure.

Comparative Study of Microscope Assisted Tympanoplasty and Endoscope Assisted Tympanoplasty

Aim: Endomeatal endoscopic tympanoplasty (ET) is a relatively new technique. We wanted to study the feasibility of performing this technique, its outcome using tragal perichondrium (TP) and its cosmetic benefits over the conventional microscopic tympanoplasty (MT) using temporalis fascia (TF).Patients and Methods: Study consisted of 81 patients in total between the age group 7 years to 70 years who fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Of these patients, 41 underwent MT using TP, while the remaining 40 underwent ET using TP as graft material.Results: For the graft uptake and hearing gain, ET and MT had similar outcomes, but time taken for surgery for ET was significantly less than the time taken for MT. In addition to this, satisfaction of clarity of view, depth perception, round window reflex, and ossicular chain visualization were all comparable in both groups but the visualization of the entire tympanic membrane was better in ET group. Cosmetic satisfaction of ET were significantly better than the MT group.Conclusion: Endoscope has a better visualization of the entire tympanic membrane without the need to manipulate the patients head. ET was an equally effective technique and TP was an efficient graft material. Conventional MT required a long post auricular incision, dissection and closure which lead to change in normal orientation of the pinna leading to poor cosmetic satisfaction. The dissection and closure also extended the duration of surgery which was not required in endoscopic technique which lead to significant reduction of duration of surgery and better cosmesis.

Virtual reality as a tool for evaluating user acceptance of view clarity through ETFE double-skin façades

Equipping building envelopes with an additional layer is an effective measure for improving the overall thermal and daylighting performance and reducing the energy consumption of buildings. This study investigated the user acceptance of energy-saving retrofitting measures in office buildings, reporting on the view perception and emotional response towards ETFE double-skin façades (DSF). Virtual Reality (VR) and physics-based imaging techniques were used to evaluate the user experience of a window view in an office space equipped with a pneumatic ETFE cushion as a second building skin. Three DSF scenarios with different ETFE cushions, including a clear, fritted and switchable sample, were evaluated and compared to the original single-skin façade with double-glazed windows. The physical and luminous conditions of the office space were replicated in a virtual environment with a validated physically-based imaging technique and presented to a group of volunteers (N = 22) using a virtual reality headset. While immersed in the virtual environment, participants responded to a questionnaire enquiring into their view perception and emotional states. The results revealed a preference for view clarity of clear ETFE in double-skin façades (Mdn = 5) and less satisfaction for fritted (Mdn = 4) and switchable foil cushions (Mdn = 1.75), yet double glazing was preferred in all measured parameters (Mdn = 6). Statistical significance was found for fritted in comparison to switchable ETFE in terms of spatial pleasure and control. The highest ratings were given to clear glazing across all investigated parameters of view perception and emotional response. The lowest ranking in all questions was given to the sample with the switchable ETFE cushion. The study concluded that view clarity is a major aspect for the user acceptance of ETFE double-skin façades. Overall, this study provides a better understanding of the visual and emotional implications of viewing through ETFE foil and contributes to forming criteria for the design of next-generation ETFE building envelopes.

Does temperature of distending medium matter in outpatient hysteroscopy? A double‐blinded cohort control observational study of room temperature versus warmed saline

There is little data assessing outcomes of outpatient hysteroscopy using warmed versus room temperature saline. The aim of this study was to determine if the temperature of the distending medium during outpatient hysteroscopy affect ease of procedure, clarity of view, procedural discomfort/pain and patient satisfaction. This was a double-blinded cohort control quasi-randomized prospective study involving 100 women undergoing outpatient diagnostic and operative hysteroscopy for abnormal uterine bleeding, intrauterine contraceptive devices retrieval and removal of endometrial polyps. Outpatient hysteroscopy was performed either with normal saline either at room temperature (control at 25°C) or warmed to body temperature (37°C). Confounding variables such as age, parity, previous cervical surgery, previous vaginal births, menopausal status and indications for hysteroscopy were similar in the room temperature (n = 48) and warmed saline (n = 52) groups. Mean procedure duration (256 vs 233 s), ease of entry (Visual Analogue Scale [VAS] 9.55 vs 9.4) and the clarity of view (VAS 9.02 vs 9.3) were statistically similar in both groups (all P > 0.05) as was discomfort experienced during hysteroscopy (VAS 6.6/10 vs 6.8/10) and at 5 min post-procedure (VAS 4.2/10 vs 3.2/10) (both P > 0.05). The likelihood of recommending the procedure to a friend was similar in both groups (mean VAS 6.9/10 vs 7.2/10; P = 0.1). The temperature of the distension medium did not influence ease of procedure, clarity of hysteroscopy view, procedural discomfort/pain and patient satisfaction. Patients were not any more likely to recommend the procedure to a friend in the warmed saline compared to the room temperature group.

An integrated method and web tool to assess visual environment in spaces with window shades

The current article presents a synthesis of the most recent metrics (visual comfort autonomy, lighting energy use, and view clarity) for assessing the visual environment performance of spaces with window shades, in the form of an integrated framework—interactive web-based tool. A daylighting and glare simulation model is used to calculate interior daylight distributions, luminance mapping, and annual spatial visual performance metrics. Then, a decision strategy was developed for selecting fabric properties based on different priorities: maximizing outside view, maximizing energy performance, or a balanced approach with fixed or flexible criteria to avoid compromises, all under visual comfort constraints. The models and decision strategies were implemented into a web-based tool, which includes a database of different design configurations (climate, envelope configuration, orientation, glazing size and properties, comfort restrictions, occupant view directions, etc.) and either provides recommendations for selecting shade properties based on the variation of the three visual performance metrics, or compares different configurations with detailed output information. The tool, under further development, is currently available to the public and can be used to obtain preliminary information about the comfort, energy, and view clarity performance of spaces will roller shades, without the need of high expertise or complex simulations.

An online interactive tool to assess visual environment in offices with roller shades

The Visual Environment in perimeter office spaces is of interest in three different aspects: Visual Comfort, Lighting Energy Performance and Connection to the Outside, all of which are affected by a selection of design parameters, including the building's location, orientation, geometry and façade configuration (glazing and shading). This paper presents an interactive web-based tool for assessing the visual environment in office spaces with roller shades; it extends the three aforementioned metrics in an annual framework, and allows users to input the parameters of their space of interest and return design recommendations for visual comfort, lighting energy use and outside view based on fabric properties. The tool considers different locations, orientations, glazing properties and seating layouts and provides a straightforward and fast way to obtain preliminary information about the comfort, energy and view clarity performance of office designs will roller shades, without the need of high expertise or time-consuming simulations.

Dry Arthroscopy of the Elbow

Dry arthroscopy is attractive because it affords an unsurpassed clarity of view and minimizes swelling. The elbow is a challenging joint to assess arthroscopically; however, dry arthroscopy has some particular benefits in the elbow. The primary benefit is the quality of the tissue definition, but dry arthroscopy also increases the working time for surgery by reducing swelling and results in less postoperative discomfort for the patient. With dry arthroscopy, all joint surfaces are covered in synovial fluid, which reflects light, to provide a clearer image of the joint surfaces and depth of field. The air-fluid interface provides an uninterrupted appreciation of the synovial recesses and tissue perfusion. This article describes the technique and indications for dry elbow arthroscopy, which will allow other surgeons to reap the benefits of dry arthroscopy without the need for special equipment or changes in their basic technique.

View clarity index: A new metric to evaluate clarity of view through window shades

Connection to the outdoors through window views has been related to occupant satisfaction. While view quality depends on outdoor scenery, view clarity can be quantified according to fenestration properties and visual conditions. This paper investigates view clarity through window shades (fabrics) used in commercial buildings. A field study with 18 human subjects was conducted to measure view clarity preferences in offices equipped with 14 shading fabrics of different transparency and color. The tests, including subjective and objective responses, were repeated for different sky conditions and viewing distances. The collected data were used to create a view clarity scoring system and fabric rankings. A new metric, the View Clarity Index (VCI), was developed based on averaged normalized scores using all processed data. The results showed that darker fabrics with higher openness generally achieve higher clarity scores. A few exceptions confirmed the complex combined impact of shading optical properties on view clarity. The influences of fabric type, sky conditions and viewing distance were statistically quantified. In most cases, cloudy conditions and longer viewing distances (up to 2.4 m) resulted in higher view clarity; however, the VCI rank order was not affected by these factors. Finally, the results were used to develop a reliable model capable of predicting VCI for any shading fabric, using only the shade openness factor and visible transmittance. The new index, together with glare and energy use considerations, can be used to evaluate the overall performance of shading products, leading to improved indoor environmental design and occupant satisfaction.