A method for evaluating external shading device influences on zone gains by EnergyPlus simulation programme

Shading devices used to protect from unwanted solar radiation acting on interior surfaces change air velocity and volume flow rates depending on their geometry and position on the building exterior. Changes in volume flow rates, interior velocities and the amount of solar radiation can be advantageous or disadvantageous depending on the time of day. The goal of this study was to determine the efficiency of different shading devices using the Energyplus programme by comparing their effect on zone gains and losses with convection, sensible gains in the zone, losses from ventilation and zone gains from windows through specific time intervals.