Architectural Engineering and Design Management

Architectural Engineering and Design Management 3 (2007) 106–123

Article

Computer Simulation in Solar Architecture Design

Tomasz Kisilewicz

There is a need today for simple design formulas that take into account the necessary building features and help to answer the question of how to minimize conventional heating demand and ensure comfort conditions. Even in moderate climates, high solar gains in low-energy buildings reduce heating demand but, at the same time, may significantly increase the overheating load. Broad simulation research (by means of Energy Plus™) covering almost 900 combinations in 4D space allowed the selection of local optimum points, resulting in an approximated design formula. An optimum south glazing index can be calculated on the basis of space heating demand and its thermal capacity, as well as the spectral and insulating features of the south glazing. The simple design formulas presented in this paper could be, at least in the Central European climate, a useful tool for the replacement of intuitive decisions with conscious and rational ones. The most important conclusion is that window sizing, usually performed in the first stage of architectural design, should follow rather than precede certain technical decisions. A precise but simple sizing method is crucial for energy consumption and the internal thermal environment. The proposed tool would allow the bridging of today's common gap between architectural design and engineering practice. It could also be adapted to other locations and climates after the necessary modifications.

Keywords: Building design; low-energy architecture; solar energy; direct passive solar gain; thermal capacity; overheating

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