Optimizing the configuration of a façade module for office buildings by means of integrated thermal and lighting simulations in a total energy perspective

Abstract

Integrated thermal-daylighting simulations on a low energy building are performed. Optimal WWR of the façade that minimize the total energy demand is searched. Optimal WWR were found in the range 35-45%, regardless the orientation. If state-of-the-art technologies are used, WWR play a crucial role (maximum influence: 11%). The optimal configurations are tested against different building geometries and HVAC efficiencies.

Aerogel granulate glazing facades and their application potential from an energy saving perspective

“…However, from a thermal point of view, it is not always preferable to design a facade with a large number of windows, as windows are often a weak point of thermal resistance owing to their large thermal transmittance (i.e., U-value) compared to other building envelope components (walls, roof, and floor). Many previous studies have investigated the energy performance of windows [2][3][4][5][6]. Currently, the most popular glazing system is double glazing, which balances both performance and cost.…”

Early-Stage Design Considerations for the Energy-Efficiency of High-Rise Office Buildings

“…Kheiri [27] found the optimal value in the range of 20-32% for a building that was featured by a low-performance façade (U values for windows and walls were 2.4 W/m 2 K and 2.6 W/m 2 K respectively) and had no shading system. However, Goia et al [28] found the optimal value in the range of 35-45% through the integration of external solar shading devices with a high-performance façade (U values for windows and walls were 0.7 W/m 2 K and 0.15 W/m 2 K respectively). Therefore, it can be inferred that the optimal WWR value depends on the envelope properties employed in the simulations and can influence the results to some extent.…”

“…However, Goia et al [28] found the optimal value in the range of 35-45% through the integration of external solar shading devices with a high-performance façade (U values for windows and walls were 0.7 W/m 2 K and 0.15 W/m 2 K respectively). Therefore, it can be inferred that the optimal WWR value depends on the envelope properties employed in the simulations and can influence the results to some extent.…”

Solar shading control strategies in cold climates – Heating, cooling demand and daylight availability in office spaces

“…Several studies have been performed where control strategies and patterns of various shading systems have been studied (Tzempelikos and Athienitis 2007;Koo et al 2010;Appelfeld et al 2012;Goia et al 2013). In (van Moeseke et al 2007) it was found that in order to reduce heating demands during winter, a combination of solar irradiance levels and internal temperature set points should be used.…”