Focus on the application of technical innovations in the field of integrated lighting solutions in practitioners’ workflows. Bring findings onto  the desktops of designers by integration into widely used software tools, standards and codes, and design guidelines.
 

Abstract - The model of the reference office building, reported in IEA SHC Task 56, is implemented by different experts in building simulations, with different tools (i.e. dynamics simulation tools such as EnergyPlus, TRNSYS, CarnotUIBK, ALMAbuild, DALEC, Modelica and quasi steady state calculation tool such as PHPP). The aim is to set up reference models for (virtually) testing different solar passive and solar active façade systems. Hence, identifying deviations between the resulting energy balance for heating and cooling of the used tools due to different levels of detail of their models is of great importance, while in the same time, trying to get rid of the user influence was experienced as a real challenge. It can be concluded that even considering a relatively simple case study, it is hard to reach a good agreement between different tools and an additional calibration phase is necessary. In particular, it was found that the resolution of the window model can lead to considerable differences (...)

This paper presents a comparative study among well-established simulation tools showing their capabilities evaluating complex fenestration systems in terms of thermal and daylight performance. Two powerful and flexible toolchain approaches based on EnergyPlus and TRNSYS including third-party software are analysed in detail and their application is shown on exemplarily test cases. By investing into comparative simulations, capabilities of both toolchains are highlighted, and pros and cons are discussed within this paper. Upon comparison with measured data, the ability of both toolchains to predict real case scenarios is shown. Satisfying alignment has been achieved in energy performance prediction (cooling loads, temperatures) as well as daylighting prediction (illuminance levels). Remaining uncertainties reflects the sensibility in used model definitions, used data as well as tool handling.

Abstract - A new compact and cost effective heating and ventilation concept for decentral renovation of small flats in multifamily houses was developed and investigated in the framework of the Austrian project “SaLüH!” through a dynamic building and HVAC simulation study based on results of laboratory measurements of functional models. The system consists of a façade integrated supply air/exhaust air heat pump equipped with a desuperheater allowing to increase the heating power and to add more freedom to control the system. The simulation results show that such a system is able to improve the thermal comfort of the flat (compared to the standard heating concept without desuperheater) with good indoor air quality and satisfying energy performance. The proposed system - because of its versatility and compactness - represents an ideal solution for decentral renovation of flats in multi-family houses, especially in case of limited space inside the flat and if central solutions are not possible for technical, economic or social reasons.

Abstract - The aim of this study is to assess the performance of prototype PV façade elements of various PV technologies, colors and textures. Within this context, a prototype PV façade demonstrator was constructed and monitored at SolarBEAT, Eindhoven. This prototype demonstrator consists of 9 façade PV panels of c-Si and CIGS technologies with flat and textured solar glasses and black, grey and red colors. The field-testing results indicate a limited performance drop of less than 20% for all colors and textures.

Abstract - As the interface between interior and exterior spaces, the façade plays a key role for the thermal and visual conditions in buildings. Advanced daylighting systems should fulfill various and in parts contradictory requirements: they must provide sufficient and adequately distributed natural lighting, avoid visual discomfort (glare) while allowing visual contact to the exterior, provide solar gains for heating in winter and protect from high radiation against overheating in summer. Integrating these functionalities often results in products which are more complex than conventional sunshading systems and thus are often not properly characterized and cannot be applied in standard design workflows. We present approaches for the characterization of advanced daylighting systems and introduce DALEC, a simplified tool for combined lighting and thermal simulations that can account for such systems. (...)

Abstract - A new approach of highly-efficient thermal refurbishments of multi-family buildings is presented that has a high potential to reduce costs and simplify the renovation processes significantly. This approach is based on prefabricated curtain wall elements that integrate components for the energy supply system such as heat pumps, PV panels and all the necessary pipework for supply and waste water lines. By using pre-fabricated curtain wall elements, scaffolding and the relocation of inhabitants can be avoided. Three different system concepts have been evaluated and compared to a reference retrofit in terms of primary energy and life cycle costs. It has been shown that the new concepts can reduce the primary energy consumption significantly while reducing the costs over the lifetime of the system. Finally, a functional mockup of such as pre-fabricated façade was constructed and successfully tested in the laboratory.

Abstract - As the interface between interior and exterior spaces, the façade plays a key role for the thermal and visual conditions in buildings. Advanced daylighting systems should fulfill various and in parts contradictory requirements: they must provide sufficient and adequately distributed natural lighting, avoid visual discomfort (glare) while allowing visual contact to the exterior, provide solar gains for heating in winter and protect from high radiation against overheating in summer. (...) We present approaches for the characterization of advanced daylighting systems and introduce DALEC, a simplified tool for combined lighting and thermal simulations that can account for such systems. A comparison between DALEC and TRNSYS proves that the simplified approach is adequate for integrated simulations in early design phases.

Abstract - Within the framework of the Austrian FFG project “SaLüH!” concepts with high energy efficient and cost-effective decentral small scale heat pumps for heating and DHW preparation for the renovation of small dwellings in multi-story buildings are developed and investigated. Very compact heat pumps are developed in order to enable the integration of these units into the window parapet or into the façade. The wall integration has a high potential in pre-fabrication and leads to an optimal solution for renovation of small apartments. The target is to create a complete renovation package with a decentralized (apartment size) exhaust-air heat pump (HP) for ventilation and heating installed in the kitchen and an air-to-water HP for DHW preparation installed in the bathroom. The solutions aim to be cost effective, involving components and technologies with high efficiency and minimum noise emissions. (...)

- Compact façade integrated MVHR and heat pump for decentral ventilation and heating
- Potential of onsite-PV to reduce non-renewable primary energy consumption
- Results of the project "SaLüH"

Abstract - A new building with 14 small flats is designed according to Passive House standard in Innsbruck, Austria. Heating and domestic hot water (DHW) supply are planned to be covered using direct electricity. Electric heaters are used for space heating, and electric boilers for DHW (one per flat). The whole south façade is covered with a Photovoltaic (PV) system of 27.3 kWp, aiming to cover as much as possible of the electricity needs. The idea was to keep the investments costs low, minimize the installation effort, eliminate the distribution losses, and increase the share of on-site renewable energy production using the available space in the façade [...]
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- Assessment of photometric properties
- Relation between photometric properties and lighting conditions in indoor spaces
- Energy performance and user acceptance studies

Abstract - The intension of Living in Light is to create additional space behind a more transparent and flexible building envelope in a transformation of existing buildings. The purpose is to make a more demand driven concept for renewal and transformation of existing buildings to the benefit of the users, the owners and the environment. The transparent building envelope adds new qualities to the building. A part from more space it creates a “Summer Garden”, with daylight and better indoor environment, active facades (PV and thermal sun power) and better energy performance. The Living in Light Box tests the concept. www.livinginlight.info | Paper | Presentation

Abstract - To reach future Net-Zero Energy Buildings as requested by the “Energy Performance of Buildings Directive” the integration of systems for harvesting of renewable energy is decisive. Building integrated solar thermal (BIST) collectors can play an important role in this paradigm shift. In the R&D projects ArKol and TABSOLAR multidisciplinary teams develop different BIST systems for transparent and opaque facades. These solutions help trigger highly qualitative architectural integration of solar thermal collectors and are planned for future realization. This paper describes the basic layout of these systems and the current state of development.
 

Abstract - Solar Envelope systems, which represent the technological response for meeting aesthetic requirements and solar renewable energy exploitation on building façades, are gaining a rising attention. However, they are still rare on the market. IEA SHC Task 56 focuses on the critical analysis, simulation, laboratory tests and onsite monitoring of market available and near market Solar Envelope systems. Within this framework, reference boundary conditions are required in order to assess the performance of Solar Envelope systems and compare different technologies through numerical simulations. The present paper reviews the process of defining reference boundary conditions for an office building, listing possible simplifications and required assumptions in order to calculate the impact at whole building level in terms of useful and final energy savings related to the installation of a façade integrated technology. The paper concludes with a comparison of simulation results between TRNSYS and DALEC, a simplified concept evaluation tool, which performs combined thermal and lighting analysis already at early design stages. 

Abstract - Sustainable and responsible use of resources is required in order to mitigate climate change. Micro-economic goals usually consider the capitalized investment costs and/or the purchased energy but disregard environmental impacts. However, on macro-economic scale, the aim must be the reduction of the (non-renewable) primary energy (PE) use and of CO2-emissions. There is need for an appropriate evaluation method for comparing and ranking different passive and active building technologies, e.g. according to their impact on the PE consumption. (...) This paper discusses - using a realized NZE multi-family building as an example - a PE evaluation method, that allows to include future development of the load (i.e. building stock) and electricity mix (share of REs) with seasonal variations and shows the impact on the ranking of different passive and active technologies.

Abstract - Heat pumps in combination with PV are discussed as one of the key technologies in a future sustainable energy system. A simulation study of a flat in a multi-familiy-house (MFH) with decentral compact heat pumps and with a photovoltaic (PV) field was performed in the CARNOT/Simulink simulation environment in order to evaluate the potential to reduce the purchased grid electricity. PV electricity is self-consumed covering electric power requests for heating, ventilation, appliances and Domestic Hot Water (DHW) preparation. Three different electric power profiles for DHW preparation and two PV fields (roof, roof and façade) were analysed.The results of the simulations show that just a small percentage (below 26%) of electricity demand can be covered from PV field energy. The installation of a PV field also on the façade of the flat does not reduce significantly the purchased electricity (-11% in best of cases), while the use of daily electric storage could be evaluated to decrease further the purchased electricity (maximum reduction of -27%). The use of annual primary energy factor instead of monthly values overestimates the reduction of primary energy demand in all cases compared to the case without photovoltaic system.

Abstract - This contribution will present a concept for (translucent) wall elements with switchable U- and g-values. The basic concept of the element consists of an insulation panel (preferably realized by a translucent and light-guiding foam grid or in the future by transparent vacuum glazing) which is arranged inside a glazed closed cavity so that thermally driven convection around the element can either be enabled or suppressed. Supression of convection is realized by a rollable second insulation inside the cavity which can reflect incident solar radiation: If the secondary insulation is fully retracted resulting in high U and g-value and daylight being guided inside the building. By successively rolling down the insulation, convection can be suppressed and the g-value can be varied from almost unchanged to almost zero. In the case of the secondary insulation being rolled fully down, the U-value of the element is also minimal. This state is favourable in a cold winter night or during hot daytime hours in summer. The high translucence, low-U-value case is favourable in conditions where solar gains and good insulation are favourable and the translucent high-U-value case is favourable for example in a summer night to cool the building (...).

Abstract - In this article it is presented an innovative façade system with a solar thermal system. The developed solar system can be classified as modular unglazed collector, designed for low temperature energy capture. It is compatible with a solar combined system that integrates a solar heat pump. The external appearance of the building remains untouched thanks to this innovative system. Experimental works at façade collector level are presented. The integration of the unglazed collector in a heat pump based combined solar system, its performance levels and economic figures are presented.

Abstract - Shading devices are effective in controlling glare and solar heat gains in buildings. However, this occurs at the expense of daylight and outside view. This paper evaluates the thermal and daylight performance of Lumiduct, a sun-controlling dynamic façade system that permits only diffuse radiation inside the building, while producing electricity. This imparts Lumiduct a unique characteristic of acting as a shading device while providing useful daylight and view to the outside. The first part of the paper briefly illustrates the working principle of Lumiduct and its functional characteristics and then, introduces the basic principles of the modelling and simulation strategy used to predict its performance. (...) The results show a significantly higher daylight utilization along with a reduction in glare and energy use for heating and cooling the building.

Abstract  - Im Rahmen des von 2014 bis 2017 laufenden Projektes „Vorgefertigte Fassadenelemente mit maximal integrierten HVAC-Komponenten und -systemen zur Bestandssanierung“ wurden neue Lösungsansätze für intelligente Bestandssanierung aufgezeigt bzw. entwickelt, wobei es unter anderem um die Synergieeffekte für die Modernisierung der Gebäudehülle und der Gebäudetechnik bei konsequenter Nutzung erneuerbarer Energieträger ging. Erklärtes Ziel dabei war die Erreichung eines hohen Vorfertigungsgrades in Verbindung mit Holz- Vorhangfassaden und damit kurze Sanierungszeiten mit geringsten Belastungen der Bewohner, reduzierte Abhängigkeiten von der Witterung im Sanierungsprozess sowie eine gesichert hohe Ausführungsqualität. Entsprechende Energieversorgungskonzepte stellen die auf die Fassade auftreffende Solarenergie effizient dem Gebäude zur Verfügung.

Abstract - The switching time and spectral transmission in fully clear and fully opaque states of polymer dispersed liquid crystals (PDLC), suspended particle device (SPD) and electrochromic (EC) switchable windows were evaluated to assess their suitability to control solar heat transmission though glazed façade and comfort to building occupants. The transmission measurement on a SPD film showed a very effective absorption modulation in the visible range but fast decrease in the near infrared region. The switching speed was demonstrated to be related strongly to wavelengths. A SPD film with a larger absorption and faster switching speed in the infrared region was shown to be preferable to control solar heat transfer through glazings and thermal comfort. The PDLC window did not modulate transmission but rather modulated scattering. In the opaque state, the PDLC window was highly scattering resulting in spectral transmission varying at short distances from the window while being constant in the far field ... [read full Abstract and Paper]

With adaptive building façade technologies, a building envelope can provide a comfortable indoor environment under varying external conditions with minimal additional heating or cooling. The control strategy applied to the adaptation of the façade is a key determining factor in the successful integration of these technologies into a building. The building envelope plays a key role in regulating light, heat and mass transfer from the outdoor environment to the indoor. Dynamic glazing can be used to adjust the amount of solar radiation entering a building. The control strategies that ultimately determine the success of these switchable technologies to affect a building's energy performance and occupant comfort are reviewed in this paper.

Abstract - Present trends on solar thermal systems for building integration define the need of integrated solar technologies for façades. Although other possibilities exist for solar thermal systems in new buildings, solutions for a suitable integration of solar thermal systems into building retrofitting actuations are needed. This paper presents a solar thermal collector system which hybridizes already existing ventilated façade cladding systems into a low temperature solar thermal collector. Numerical and experimental data is presented. Access full paper on Research Gate

Abstract - Present trends on solar thermal systems for building integration define the need of integrated solar technologies for façades. The integration of solar systems in façades allows for the direct connection of solar systems to heated spaces, and automated air solar collectors based on the trombe-mitchell provide a suitable technology for its adoption in multi-rise buildings with decentralized-individual HVAC systems in Central-European and Mediterranean heating dominated climates. This paper reviews the main principles of such building envelope components, and the construction and design considerations of two air-based solar thermal collectors. Full scale preliminary prototypes of these systems were tested at the KUBIK by Tecnalia test facility in an Oceanic Climate (Koppen Geiger Cfb zone). The observed thermal performance is analyzed, and the process of a full scale installation in a real building envelope retrofitting process of a building in Spain is reviewed. Access full paper on Research Gate

Abstract - The lack of solutions for the architectural integration of solar collectors and the complexity of their assembly process are important barriers for the widespread adoption of this technology. An innovative approach is proposed in which solar collectors are not merely integrated into conventional building envelopes, but instead these envelopes are hybridized and activated to house solar thermal systems. (...) The paper presents results from three ongoing projects. BATISOL and BASSE investigate the development of solar thermal technology so as to fulfil the functional, constructional and formal requirements of building skins. (...). RETROKIT explores the usage of renewable energy gains within an alternative environmental control strategy, by direct supply of heated air into the ventilation system. Finally, a discussion is presented on architectural, constructional and thermal performance aspects of these solutions, based on both design assessments and experimental data. Access full paper on Research Gate

Abstract - In the EC-funded FP7-project ‘Development of Systemic Packages for Deep Energy Renovation of Residential and Tertiary Buildings including Envelope and Systems’ (iNSPiRe; URL: http://www.inspirefp7.eu/) amongst others envelope retrofitting packages have been developed. The goal was to improve the façade of these buildings by providing more accessible and affordable energy saving solutions. Paper | Presentation

Abstract - At the moment hardly prefabricated façade modules with integrated building services are used for the thermal renovation of residential buildings. Within the frame of the national research project “Prefabricated façade elements with maximum integrated HVAC components and systems for the renovation of existing buildings” the potential for the intelligent renovation of existing buildings should be shown and new solutions should be developed. A highest possible level of prefabrication should minimize the required renovation time and avoid vacancy. In particular, the aim is also to find solutions which allow a direct interaction of the HVAC components in the building façade with the room behind [...]
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Abstract - Due to steadily increasing use of technologies for the reduction of the non-renewable energy needs in buildings (...)  deeper architectural integration is needed, also considering on cost and assembly process optimization to ensure wide market adoption. In this context, two main trends appear: Integration and hybridation of solar systems in building envelopes. Integrated solutions are created when modular and dimensionally variable glazed collectors are integrated in curtain wall structures or in external cladding systems. Hybrid solutions such as external thermal insulation systems and sandwich panels are generated where unglazed collectors are integrated as part of renders, claddings, etc. to obtain neutral aesthetical impact. Architectural, constructional and thermal results are discussed, not only based on design assessments, but also on manufacture, assembly and assessment results from experimental data.
 

Abstract - The layout of an air based solar cooling system integrated into a façade module was designed and assessed. This solution utilizes a triple state absorption module within a Sydney type vacuum tube solar collector to thermally condition an airflow directed to the internal space reducing the thermal load covered by traditional technologies (...). The results show that a combination of active and passive cooling can greatly limit the use of cooling coil even though the performance varies significantly with climate and façade orientation. On the contrary, the performance in heating have been found quite poor for all configurations studied. Abstract

Abstract - In the on-going Nordic Built Living in Light project, coordinated by Kuben Management, a new concept of urban renewal will be tested at Gl. Jernbanevej in Valby in Copenhagen. Here a 4 storey old housing block from around year 1900 will have new roof top apartments together with an approx. 2 m extension of the housing block towards the courtyard. The extension mainly consists of an innovative window structure from the Danish window company Velfac, and it increases the daylight quality of the apartments considerably without compromising comfort and energy use. At the same time building integrated PV solutions secures an overall CO2 neutral design for the renovation project.

Abstract - The objective of the EC-funded project iNSPiRe is to reduce the problem of high-energy consumption of existing buildings by producing systemic renovation packages that can be applied to residential and tertiary buildings. The renovation packages aim to reduce the 2 primary energy consumption of a building to lower than 50 kWh/(m a) for ventilation, heating/cooling, domestic hot water and lighting. These renovation packages need to be suitable for various climates in Europe while ensuring optimum comfort for the building users. One major goal of iNSPiRe is the development of multi-functional renovation kits that make use of innovative envelope technologies, energy generation systems (including RES integration) and energy distribution systems [...]

Abstract - Nowadays, the application of BIPV systems is growing very fast and among this type of technology, application of BIPV facade systems is becoming more common. A main question in this field is how we can ensure the intended performance of such systems considering different involved parameters over the system's life-time. To do so, we need to be able to predict normal behavior of BIPV systems in urban environments, considering the effect of shading from neighboring obstructions. This research investigates a combination of real-time shading simulation using Rhino and Grasshopper with BIPV performance monitoring to detect abnormal system operation. The application of this approach is demonstrated for a 12 m 2 vertical BIPV system in the SolarBEAT test facility in Eindhoven, the Netherlands. We have conducted an experiment to better understand the impact of different partial shading scenarios on the I-V curve of a vertical CIGS BIPV panel. The results show that the simulation-assisted approach, coupled with data visualization and a decision tree can be a powerful tool for guaranteeing robust BIPV system output. Download article

Abstract - Cette étude porte sur la modélisation et l’étude expérimentale de capteurs solaires développés et fabriqués par INEF4 dans le cadre du projet BATISOL. Ces capteurs sont modulaires, opaques, basse température, Low-Cost, et totalement intégrés en façade derrière une solution de bardage métallique. Dans une première partie est présenté le modèle de simulation thermique du capteur. Il s’agit d’un modèle pseudo 3D par éléments finis développé sous COMSOL. Un calcul sur une coupe 2D du capteur est répété n fois selon la direction du fluide afin de déterminer les variables d’état tout au long du capteur. Dans une deuxième partie est présenté le dispositif expérimental, les prototypes réalisés ainsi que les résultats des tests expérimentaux. La comparaison entre ces deux approches permet de valider l’utilisation d’un modèle pseudo 3D pour la simulation thermique des capteurs BATISOL.