mixed-mode buildings

In this work, we propose a method to couple the behaviour models developed with Python in a previous paper with the dynamic thermal simulation software EnergyPlus, an advanced code used in research and design. The proposed coupling method is applied to the thermal model of an office building situated in the humid tropical climate of Reunion Island after calibrating and validating it with measured temperature and relative humidity data.

Despite being provided by mechanical ambient conditioning systems or not, all building have to a certain extent a degree of adaptation. Studies have shown that with either a weak or strong dependency to outdoor conditions there always are adaptive opportunities that might have a significant impact on comfort perception.

The objective of this paper is to assess methods of thermal comfort for use in mixed-mode office buildings located in hot-humid summer climate based on air-conditioning consumption of a predominant typology of real mixed-mode office buildings. Three methods to assess thermal comfort were analysed: (1) Givoni’s chart for hot and humid climates, (2) ASHRAE 55-2010 for determining acceptable thermal conditions in occupied spaces, (3) ASHRAE 55-2010 for determining acceptable thermal conditions in naturally ventilated spaces.