Description

The objective of this project is to develop a flexible fenestration simulation program based on fundamental physical modeling of fenestration heat flows. Central to this objective is an intelligent default mechanism with iterative search capabilities that would produce a physically realistic fenestration system based on the user inputs, with the minimum inputs being only the lumped parameters of U-value and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient. As more inputs are provided, e.g., number of panes, gap width, frame material, etc., the program will narrow the search to the remaining unknown properties so that the system bulk properties and other physical characteristics of the synthesized fenestration system will match actual information, typically based on empirical data. In some cases this information may be limited to observable characteristics, such as dimensions, number of glass panes and frame materials. Such limited input information to the tool would be used to help generate a detailed physical description of a fenestration system based on real components available in the market today. This computer program is designed to be used in a stand-alone mode to produce a text file containing information suitable to be input to any popular building simulation engine.

The program will also contain options (depending on the application), such as an industryaverage or conservative “worst-case” fenestration, for a given set of specified fenestration properties. The former would be appropriate for setting the reference fenestration in compliance calculations for building energy standards; the latter would be more appropriate for the proposed fenestration in a compliance calculation in the absence of more detailed information.

In the course of developing the calculation methodology, we conducted a survey of common fenestration products available in the US and Australian markets, and developed a reference library of prototypical or generic fenestration systems for commonly found frame and glazing components.

Product Details

Published:

2017

Number of Pages:

98

Units of Measure:

Dual

File Size:

1 file , 2 MB

Product Code(s):

D-RP-1588