@article {31495, title = {Efficient modeling of optically-complex, non-coplanar exterior shading: Validation of matrix algebraic methods}, journal = {Energy and Buildings}, volume = {174}, year = {2018}, month = {09/2018}, pages = {464 - 483}, abstract = {

It has long been established that shading windows with overhangs, fins, and other types of non-coplanar systems (NCS) is one of the most effective ways of controlling solar heat gains in buildings because they intercept solar radiation prior to entry into the building. Designers however often specify non-opaque materials (e.g., louvers, fritted glass, expanded metal mesh) for these systems in order to admit daylight, reduce lighting energy use, and improve indoor environmental quality. Most simulation tools rely on geometric calculations and radiosity methods to model the solar heat gain impacts of NCS and cannot model optically-complex materials or geometries. For daylighting analysis, optically-complex NCS can be modeled using matrix algebraic methods, although time-efficient parametric analysis has not yet been implemented. Determining the best design and/or material for static or operable NCS that minimize cooling, heating, and lighting energy use and peak demand requires an iterative process. This study describes and validates a matrix algebraic method that enables parametric energy analysis of NCS. Such capabilities would be useful not only for design but also for development of prescriptive energy-efficiency standards, rating and labeling systems for commercial products, development of design guidelines, and development of more optimal NCS technologies.

A facade or "F" matrix, which maps the transfer of flux from the NCS to the surface of the window, is introduced and its use is explained. A field study was conducted in a full-scale outdoor testbed to measure the daylight performance of an operable drop-arm awning. Simulated data were compared to measured data in order to validate the models. Results demonstrated model accuracy: simulated workplane illuminance was within 11-13\%, surface luminance was within 16-18\%, and the daylight glare probability was within 6-9\% of measured results. Methods used to achieve accurate results are discussed. Results of the validation of daylighting performance are applicable to solar heat gain performance. Since exterior shading can also significantly reduce peak demand, these models enable stakeholders to more accurately assess HVAC and lighting impacts in support of grid management and resiliency goals.

}, keywords = {bidirectional scattering distribution function (BSDF), daylighting, exterior shading, solar heat gains, validation; building energy simulation tools, windows.}, issn = {03787788}, doi = {10.1016/j.enbuild.2018.06.022}, url = {https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378778818302457?via\%3Dihub}, author = {Taoning Wang and Gregory Ward and Eleanor S. Lee} } @article {60092, title = {Assessment of the Potential to Achieve Very Low Energy Use in Public Buildings in China with Advanced Window and Shading Systems}, journal = {Buildings}, volume = {5}, year = {2015}, month = {05/2015}, pages = {668-699}, chapter = {668}, abstract = {

As rapid growth in the construction industry continues to occur in China, the increased demand for a higher standard living is driving significant growth in energy use and demand across the country. Building codes and standards have been implemented to head off this trend, tightening prescriptive requirements for fenestration component measures using methods similar to the US model energy code American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) 90.1. The objective of this study is to (a) provide an overview of applicable code requirements and current efforts within China to enable characterization and comparison of window and shading products, and (b) quantify the load reduction and energy savings potential of several key advanced window and shading systems, given the divergent views on how space conditioning requirements will be met in the future.

System-level heating and cooling loads and energy use performance were evaluated for a code-compliant large office building using the EnergyPlus building energy simulation program. Commercially-available, highly-insulating, low-emittance windows were found to produce 24-66\% lower perimeter zone HVAC electricity use compared to the mandated energy-efficiency standard in force (GB 50189-2005) in cold climates like Beijing. Low-e windows with operable exterior shading produced up to 30-80\% reductions in perimeter zone HVAC electricity use in Beijing and 18-38\% reductions in Shanghai compared to the standard. The economic context of China is unique since the cost of labor and materials for the building industry is so low. Broad deployment of these commercially available technologies with the proper supporting infrastructure for design, specification, and verification in the field would enable significant reductions in energy use and greenhouse gas emissions in the near term.

}, keywords = {building, China, energy efficiency, shading, windows}, doi = {10.3390/buildings5020668}, author = {Eleanor S. Lee and Xiufeng Pang and Andrew McNeil and Sabine Hoffmann and Anothai Thanachareonkit and Zhengrong Li and Yong Ding} }