Assisting the development of innovative responsive fa?ade elements using building performance simulation

Abstract

Thermal mass is usually positively associated with energy efficiency and thermal comfort in buildings. However, the slow response of heavyweight constructions is not beneficial at all times, as these dynamic effects may actually also increase heating and cooling energy demand during intermittent operation or can cause unwanted discomfort. This study investigates the potential of energy simulations to support the exploration-driven development of two innovative responsive building elements: "Spong3D" and "Convective Concrete". Both use fluid flow (Spong3D: water, Convective Concrete: air) inside the construction to reduce building energy demand by exploiting the use of natural energy sinks and sources in the ambient environment, aiming to make more intelligent use of thermal mass. During the development of these concepts, different simulation tools were used alongside experiments for e.g. materials selection, climate analysis, comfort prediction and risk assessment. By presenting the results from a series of simulation studies and by reflecting on their application, this paper shows how computational building performance analyses can play a useful role in ill-defined R&D processes.

Mimosa Kinetic Façade: Bio-Inspired Ventilation Leveraging the Mimosa Pudica Mechanism for Enhanced Indoor Air Quality

“…Research studies on "Active Dynamic Windows for Buildings [19]" and "Automated Dynamic Facades-User Satisfaction and Interaction [20]" both identify gaps in real-world performance data and the need for extensive studies on long-term user perceptions. The paper on "Innovative Responsive Façade Elements Using Building Performance Simulation [21]" discusses a theoretical focus that lacks practical application data. Studies such as "Dynamic Façade Shading Typologies [22]" and "Transparent Building Envelopes-Innovative Technologies [23]" highlight limitations in shading position considerations and characterizations of dynamic performance, respectively.…”