What is it about?

Dynamic solar shading can significantly reduce energy consumption in buildings and improve occupants' comfort. However, many new shading systems are hard to compare due to their rule-based control algorithms. This paper introduces a flexible framework for designing and optimizing dynamic shading systems using simulations and global minimization. The methodology can be applied to both existing and complex shading systems. It focuses on achieving comfort targets while minimizing energy consumption. By using this framework, designers can evaluate and compare their shading systems, guiding innovation in the field and benefiting building occupants.

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Why is it important?

This research is important because it aims to improve the design and performance of dynamic solar shading systems for buildings. These shading systems can significantly reduce energy consumption and enhance the comfort of building occupants by controlling the amount of sunlight and heat entering the building. The study presents a new approach to evaluating and optimizing the design of these shading systems, moving away from rule-based strategies to a more flexible and adaptable method. The new framework allows for better comparison and evaluation of existing and complex shading systems, including those with innovative designs inspired by nature or origami. The research can help architects and designers create more effective shading systems that provide better energy efficiency and comfort for building occupants. By using this new method, designers can ensure that their innovative ideas are backed by data-driven design, ultimately benefiting the people who live and work in these buildings.

Perspectives

The research presented in this study offers several exciting perspectives for readers interested in dynamic shading systems and their optimization. Some key aspects that make this research particularly appealing are: Adaptable Methodology: The methodology proposed in this study is adaptable, allowing designers to choose the criteria for objectives or constraints, and can be applied to various cases. This flexibility makes the methodology valuable in early design phases, in-depth simulations, and shading system design. Time Efficiency: The total run-time of the analysis is relatively short, making the methodology efficient and practical for real-world applications. This efficiency is particularly beneficial when designers need to quickly compare different design cases or refine a specific shading system. Identifying Design Shortcomings: The optimization methodology helps identify the shortcomings of different shading systems, allowing for iterative redesign to improve performance. This feature is particularly valuable in the design process, as it enables designers to fine-tune their shading systems and better meet the needs of building occupants. Focus on Occupant Comfort: The methodology places occupant comfort at the center of the design process, ensuring that the chosen shading systems prioritize well-being and enjoyment in the building. This focus on human comfort increases the likelihood that the implemented shading systems will be successful in real-world settings. Potential for Future Adaptation: While the current methodology is not an operation-oriented algorithm, it provides a path for future work to develop more capable shading systems or adapt the methodology for real-time control of dynamic shades. This potential for future adaptation and improvement makes the research even more exciting and relevant to the field. Overall, this study offers a novel and adaptable methodology for the evaluation and optimization of dynamic shading systems, with a focus on occupant comfort and practical applicability. The research's potential for future adaptation and improvement also makes it an exciting addition to the field of façade design and shading system optimization.

victor charpentier

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This page is a summary of: Occupant-centered optimization framework to evaluate and design new dynamic shading typologies, PLoS ONE, April 2020, PLOS,
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0231554.
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