Publications

Among the multiple criteria to be considered during the design of scholar buildings, the environmental comfort can be highlighted because of its straight relation with the efficacy of the learning process. This research considers the classroom context for developing of a shading device that emphasizes the natural ventilation. This study aims to integrate the evaluation of environmental performance by natural ventilation to the development of a shading device as an architectural design. It was investigated the potential use of shading devices under the shape of a solar chimney to promoting natural ventilation. Design solutions were parametrically evaluated using two commercial simulation software, for whose the strengths and weakness were discussed. The results showed that building simulation and CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) showed relevant discrepancies, in a way that the design decision based on non-validated simulation results might be risky. In addition, the CFD simulation was discussed in a deeper way, including the modeling methods, in loco measurements, challenges about the validation of the results achieved by CFD simulation tools. The solar chimney represents a potential use for air renovation of internal environments, especially under high solar radiation rates, and, in consequence, when high superficial temperatures can be achieved. Finally, the lighting performance of a classroom with the shading solar chimney was evaluated. The shading solar chimney was able to reduce the levels of discomfort by glare in classrooms, especially under overcast sky.