Parametric analysis and optimization of the roof skylight of a sports hall in a cold and mountainous climate in Iran based on daylight indicators (Case study: Qazvin city)

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Assistant Professor, Department of Architecture, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Qom University, Qom, Iran.

2 Master of Architecture student, Faculty of Technology and Engineering, Qom University, Qom, Iran.

Abstract

Multipurpose sports halls and stadiums are essential for meeting community needs. This research aims to provide optimal daylighting in sports halls by examining the impact of roof skylights in the cold and mountainous climate of Iran, using a parametric analysis based on daylight metrics. Following a review of prior studies, daylight indices were evaluated, and the Useful Daylight Illuminance (UDI 300-3000 Lux) was selected as the key performance metric. Field measurements were taken with a lux meter, and the error between measured and simulated results was assessed using Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) and the coefficient of variation CV(RMSE) to validate the simulation software. A parametric approach was then implemented in Rhino and Grasshopper, where the length , width, and angle of sawtooth roof skylights were defined as variables. Using the Honeybee and Galapagos plugins with a single - objective evolutionary genetic algorithm, the model was optimized. Results indicate that roof skylights significantly enhance daylight provision, ensuring uniform light distribution and improving visual comfort for both spectators and athletes. Optimization via the genetic algorithm yielded ideal skylight dimensions, enabling suitable daylight (based on UDI 300-3000 Lux) across 83.57% of the annual occupied hours, while minimizing glare risk throughout the year.

Keywords

References

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History

  • Receive Date: 03 December 2025
  • Revise Date: 28 January 2026
  • Accept Date: 30 January 2026
  • Publish Date: 21 March 2026

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