Psychological study on the evaluation of transparent space grid roofs

Abstract

At the IASS 2007 the concept of a sustainable and transparent roof construction was presented. These transparent space grid structures base on a double layer grid in which all bars in the upper layer, the compression layer, are replaced by glass panes. The glazing is part of the primary load bearing system and transfers significant in-plane forces. At the IASS 2008 a presentation on the effect of structure geometry on producibility, economy and aesthetics was hold. [1] In the last year this investigation was extended by a psychological study of 325 people on their evaluation of such transparent space grid strcutures. Basis for the study were 30 sec film sequences that show the walk in a courtyard of 15 m by 15 m covered with a transparent space grid structure of different geometries. Former studies [1] proofed the advantages of grids with sqauared or triangular panes in the upper layer. A total of four structure geometries was chosen and rendered in short film sequences. A semantic differential of 27 adjective-couples helped the observers to describe their impression of the roof. Personal attributes as experiences with spatial structures, personal feeling or performance at 3D-tests were put into consideration. The result of the psychological study showes the aggregaton of 27 adjective-couples into four groups (originality, attractiveness, openess and structure) and the evalutation of each structure with regard to each group. The effect of personal attributes, especially experience with spatial structures completed the study.