A convenient coupled simulation method for thermal environment prediction in naturally ventilated buildings

As both CFD and building simulation have their own limitationsin the thermal prediction of natural ventilation. Externalcoupled simulation method between CFD (FLUENT) and building simulation (ESP-r) hasbeen put forward for thermalenvironment prediction for naturally ventilated building design. Thecoupling mechanism and coupling program interfaceare introduced in the paper. Full CFD simulation and on site field measurements are done for the validation of the coupled simulationmethod. The results of coupled simulationsshow that the integration of CFD and building simulationcan accurately and efficiently provide indoor thermal environment and can be used as a convenienttool for facadedesigns for naturallyventilated residential buildings.Key words: Coupled simulation, CFD, Building simulation