The role of the PASLINK test cell in the modelling and integrated simulation of an innovative window

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2008

Authors

Vítor Leal (Author) FEUP; Maldonado, E (Author) Other

Journal

Title: Building and Environment

Vol. 43

Pages: 217-227

ISSN: 0360-1323

Publisher: Elsevier

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 9 Citations

Scopus - 13 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-004-1MW

DOI: 10.1016/j.buildenv.2006.10.025

Abstract (EN): The SOLVENT window is an innovative glazing system concept that involves the use of a rotating frame, an absorptive glazing and a naturally ventilated vertical channel, in order to improve the balance between the visual comfort and the energy efficiency of windows. The tools available for simulating the behaviour of the window in terms of visual comfort and of thermal and energetic behaviour are complex and potentially dependent on many calibration parameters, such as the heat convection coefficients and the number of nodes in an air-flow network. Different modelling approaches can lead to large variability in the results obtained. It is thus essential that the models are supported by measurements that may, on one hand, help to optimise the component modelling and, on the other hand, ensure that the global results provided by the model are realistic. In the case of the SOLVENT window, a prototype mounted on a PASLINK test cell in Porto (Portugal) played a fundamental role in this process. The monitoring results were used to: (a) assess the quality of the results obtained with a base case model, (b) develop improved models for the air flow and for the heat convection in the vertical air channel, (c) validate the results for the global heating and cooling loads obtained with the optimised model, and (d) calibrate the parameters needed for accurate daylighting simulation with Radiance. Once the component model was optimised and validated, it was then applied in realistic global building models for detailed performance studies. An example is provided in this paper for the virtual application of the SOLVENT window to an office in Porto, Portugal.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 11