Impact of occupant façade interaction on thermal comfort during the cooling season

Abstract

Our planet is currently facing significant challenges such as overpopulation, climate change, and resource depletion, leading to severe environmental degradation. The construction industry, in particular, has played a major role in aggravating these issues. The increase in carbon emissions has contributed to rising global temperatures, necessitating higher energy consumption in buildings to maintain thermal comfort during extreme heat conditions, which in turn further contributes to climate change. To break this cycle, designers and researchers have developed various passive strategies for buildings to reduce energy consumption. However, improper design and implementation of these strategies often compromise indoor comfort.

The building envelope, as the protective layer of a building, plays a critical role in maintaining indoor comfort. Therefore, it is essential to focus on facade strategies that not only reduce energy usage but also ensure user comfort. This thesis explores the development of passive facade strategies aimed at reducing energy consumption and maintaining thermal comfort during the cooling season. Through a systematic literature review, existing passive facade strategies employed to reduce cooling loads were examined, revealing a gap in considering occupant interaction.

The thesis investigates the potential of occupant-facade interaction as a passive strategy to reduce energy usage and maintain thermal comfort. Occupant behaviour models are identified and implemented to assess their impact on indoor comfort and air quality. The research seeks to provide insights into the benefits of occupant involvement and how it influences thermal comfort during the cooling season. The objective is to determine whether occupant behaviour alone can effectively maintain comfort and indoor air quality without relying on external mechanical systems.

By studying the relationship between occupant behaviour and the facade, this research aims to contribute valuable information on the role of occupants in reducing energy consumption and ensuring thermal comfort. The findings will shed light on the potential of occupant-facade interaction as an effective passive strategy in building design, with the ultimate goal of designing energy-efficient buildings that prioritize occupant comfort and well-being during the cooling season. Additionally, the findings of this research can serve as a foundation for the development of strategies that promote occupant interaction with the facade, leading to further reductions in energy consumption. By understanding the impact of occupant behaviour on thermal comfort and air quality, designers and building professionals can devise innovative approaches to optimize occupant-facade interaction, thereby minimizing the reliance on energy-intensive mechanical systems.