11.3. Further directions

The methods and tools developed in this PhD open up a wide field for further research and application. An essential and immediate goal is to engage the research community in this process. For this purpose, providing access to the method through transparent, easy-to-use and well-documented tools is a primary objective for the near future. Furthermore, the following tasks are planned for the foreseeable future:
• Intermodel comparisons
As this work focuses primarily on empirical validation, it will be essential to perform comparative studies in which the results of the RadiCal method are compared against commonly used calculation methods. The comparisons should involve building performance simulation and also focus on the related heating and cooling energy deviations.
• Derivation of daylighting parameters
Essential daylighting parameters, like luminance, daylight factor or glare measures, can be derived from the already implemented RadiCal simulation approach if the irradiance is weighted according to the luminous efficiency function and suitable detector surfaces are considered in the model.
• Studies on the modelling of coated glazings
In order to analyse and improve the accuracy and efficiency of the inversion method proposed in section 4.12, further research is necessary. Primarily angularly resolved measured data is required for this purpose.
• Studies of polarisation-related effects
The consideration of polarisation is a key distinguishing feature of the novel method and an intrinsic part of all calculations. In order to meet the already perceptible interest (and scepticism), it is important to transparently demonstrate light polarisation’s qualitative and quantitative significance for various applications.
• Development/implementation of a refined model for reflected radiance
Theoretical considerations and the results of the empirical measurements demonstrated the importance of detailed modelling for radiation reflected in the environment. A new feature will allow detailed modelling of this environment based on 3D models or photogrammetric information.
• New models for microstructured surfaces
The object-oriented approach allows the seamless integration of new scattering models into the raytracer. New models can be derived by developing statistical models for the microscopic scattering events based on measured BSDF information. The models created in such a process also contain polarisation information, allowing a full application of the RadiCal method. Textile surfaces and metallic paints should be the first new integrations.
• Volume scattering models
Currently, only attenuation is considered during propagation in media. Additionally, the redirection, i.e. diffusion of light during its propagation in certain media, e.g. specific glasses and liquids, should be considered. While relevant only for special applications, the integration of volume scattering is easy to accomplish and will, therefore, be performed in the foreseeable future.