Numerical Design of a DSF System Subjected to Solar Energy and Applied in Building Occupied Spaces

¹ FCT – University of Algarve, Faro, Portugal
² CINTAL – University of Algarve, Faro, Portugal
³ School of Built Environment – University of Reading, Reading, UK

^* corresponding author: econcei@ualg.pt

Abstract

A numerical design of a DSF (Double Skin Facade) system subjected to solar energy and applied to the heating of occupied spaces inside a building, in winter conditions, is presented in this study. The simulation is done using a building dynamic thermal response software to assess, among other parameters, the solar radiation incident on the DSF, the occupant thermal comfort level, indoor air quality level and thermal energy production. The occupant thermal comfort level is assessed by the Predicted Mean Vote index. The indoor air quality is assessed by the carbon dioxide concentration. The space considered in this study is an auditorium occupied by 210 people. The DSF system was installed on the south facade of this auditorium. The DSF system consists of 25 DSF. Each DSF consists of two surfaces, an opaque interior and a transparent exterior, separated by an air channel. This channel is used to heat the air that will be transported, through ducts, to the indoor HVAC (Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning) system, which is founded on a mixing ventilation system. The thermal energy produced in this way ensures an acceptable level of thermal comfort during most of the occupancy time and a level of indoor air quality close to acceptable. Therefore, it can be concluded that the HVAC system guarantees a good compromise between the thermal comfort of the occupants and the quality of the indoor air.