Evaluating lighting simulations in Autodesk 3ds Max Design

This paper assesses the accuracy and workflow of the lighting analysis features of Autodesk’s 3ds Max Design, a 3D modelling and rendering tool used by architects and designers. The validation methods initially examined simple test cases with a minimum number of parameters using analytical data test cases proposed by the ‘CIE 171:2006 Technical Report’ (CIE, 2006). The tests indicate that the software has the capability of offering accurate results for simple model cases. Following these initial tests, we examined 3ds Max Design’s ability to accurately simulate real case environments and more complex scenarios. These tests included sky-tube systems when dealing with daylight. We conducted a series of parametric tests in order to evaluate the degree of complexity that the software is capable of simulating. Our experiments resulted in an optimum method for an architect/designer to model a space in order to evaluate its light penetration through sky-tubes. By using a real case workflow example and parametric testing, we outline 3ds Max Design’s effectiveness in conducting daylight analysis for geometries and material types of varying complexity and provide guidelines for future improvements.