| This research presents a validated modeling process for analyzing the energy performance of a naturally ventilated double skin facade (DSF) using an annual building energy simulation program (BESP) such as EnergyPlus along with a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) package. The model is used to develop correlations that can be implemented in a BESP, allowing users to take advantage of the accuracy gained from the CFD simulations without the required computation time. Correlations were developed for airflow rate through the cavity, average cavity air temperature, and interior convection coefficient. The correlations were used to identify deficiencies of EnergyPlus for this application in both its mixed air zone air temperature calculation and in its available correlations for interior convection coefficient, and served to validate the ability of the COMIS link to predict an accurate airflow rate through the cavity. The correlations were also used to make some general conclusions about the energy conservation potential of a DSF. |
