ABORDAGEM DO RITMO CIRCADIANO NO PROJETO DE ILUMINAÇÃO NATURAL EMEDIFÍCIOS DE ESCRITÓRIOS

Abstract

The relevance of natural light has extrapolated the energy saving or illuminance issues required by the standards, after the discovery of the third class of photoreceptors: intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs). These cells are responsible for non-visual responses, which regulate circadian rhythm, consequently culminating in the physiological and behavioral performance of individuals. This research aimed to analyze an example of the recurrent typology of office buildings in São Paulo, from the point of view of user’s circadian rhythm performance, intending to draw design guidelines to improve the well-being of its occupants and the use of daylight. The method used the ALFA tool (Adaptive Lighting for Alertness) in the selected typology to evaluate its potential in relation to the users' circadian rhythm. The results indicated the need to assess the relevance of glass-skinned facades for the city of São Paulo, whose windowto- wall ratio parameter exceeds that recommended by researchers in the field, as well as studies of solar geometry, such as sky view factor and solar shades, besides the selection of solar control glasses. To bring daylight benefits to office buildings users, and to make the strategy becomes a viable resource, it is essential that architects design envelopes and internal spaces, according to the reach of daylight in quantities that favor the well-being, productivity, and commitment of its occupants, and avoid the occurrence of glare.