How to calculate window light
In modern architectural design and interior decoration, the calculation of window light is an important link. Reasonable window design can not only improve indoor lighting effects, but also save energy. This article will combine the hot topics and hot content in the past 10 days to analyze the calculation method of window light in detail and provide structured data for reference.
1. The importance of window light calculation

The calculation of window light directly affects the comfort and energy consumption of the indoor environment. In a recent hot topic, many experts have mentioned that proper window design can reduce reliance on artificial lighting, thereby reducing energy bills. In addition, good natural lighting can improve the mental health of residents.
2. Key factors in calculating window light
The calculation of window light involves many factors, the following are the main influencing factors:
| factors | Description |
|---|---|
| window area | The larger the window area, the more light enters the room. |
| window orientation | South-facing windows have the best lighting, while north-facing windows have less lighting. |
| glass type | Ordinary glass, Low-E glass, etc. have different transmittances to light. |
| outdoor covering | Obstructions such as buildings and trees will reduce the amount of light entering the room. |
| time and season | At different times and seasons, the sun's altitude angle is different, which affects the light intensity. |
3. Specific methods for calculating window light
Calculation of window light can be done by following steps:
1.Determine the daylight coefficient of the window: Daylighting coefficient refers to the ratio of the illumination at a certain point indoors to the illumination on an unobstructed horizontal surface at the same time outdoors. The calculation formula is: lighting coefficient = (indoor illumination / outdoor illumination) × 100%.
2.Calculate the effective lighting area of the window: The effective lighting area refers to the area of the window that can actually transmit light, usually the total area of the window minus the area of the opaque parts such as the window frame.
3.Consider the transmittance of glass: Different types of glass have different light transmittances. The light transmittance of ordinary glass is about 80%-90%, while the light transmittance of Low-E glass may be lower.
4.Incorporate outdoor coverings: If there are buildings or trees outside the window, the occlusion coefficient needs to be calculated based on the height and distance of the obstruction.
4. Window light calculation cases that have been hot topics in the past 10 days
Recently, many architectural designers and decoration companies have shared practical cases of window light calculation. The following are two typical cases:
| Case | Calculation method | result |
|---|---|---|
| a residential area | Large south-facing windows are used, with a glass light transmittance of 85% and no obstruction. | The lighting coefficient reaches 75%, and the indoor light is sufficient. |
| an office building | East-facing windows are used, with a glass transmittance of 70% and some trees blocking it. | The lighting coefficient is 50%, and artificial lighting needs to be supplemented. |
5. Tools and software for window light calculation
With the development of technology, many tools and software can help us calculate window light more accurately. The following are several tools mentioned in hot topics in the past 10 days:
| Tool name | Function | Applicable scenarios |
|---|---|---|
| Dialux | Professional lighting simulation software that can accurately calculate light distribution. | Architectural Design and Interior Decoration |
| Revit | Building information modeling software can simulate light effects at different times. | architectural design |
| SketchUp | 3D modeling software, with plug-in for light analysis. | Interior decoration and simple architectural design |
6. Summary
Calculating window light is a complex but important process involving multiple factors and steps. Through reasonable calculation and design, indoor lighting effects can be significantly improved, energy saved, and occupants' comfort improved. Recent hot topics show that more and more designers and owners are beginning to pay attention to the calculation of window light and optimize it with the help of professional tools. Hopefully the information provided in this article will help you better understand and apply window light calculations.
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