The Complex Fenestration Construction: a practical approach for modelling windows with shading devices in ESP-r

Abstract

The use of operable shading devices impacts building loads significantly. The need exists for an explicit treatment of window shading devices in the design of energy-efficient buildings through simulation. A general framework for modelling complex fenestration systems, the Complex Fenestration Construction (CFC), has recently been implemented in ESP-r. The underlying models have been developed with emphasis on computational efficiency and straightforward input requirements. The capabilities are summarized, and an overview of the solar-optical and thermal models is given. Simulations were carried out comparing the CFC in ESP-r to slat-type blind models in EnergyPlus. The results show good agreement between the two simulation programs. Work is ongoing to expand the types of shade layers available with the CFC.

Keywords:

• window shading
• solar gain
• modelling complex fenestration

Acknowledgements

The research was supported by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada. The author acknowledges the CanmetENERGY Simulation Group of Natural Resources Canada for their support.