Integrating the cellular method for shading design with a thermal simulation

The cellular method for optimal shading design recently has been implemented as a plug-in for the Ecotect software (Fig. 1). This is a significant step since it enables designers to optimize shading devices based on predicted indoor hourly thermal requirements for shading and solar gain. These requirements are determined from predicted hourly heating and cooling loads or fluctuating internal comfort levels. The method comprises a unique process of projecting and accumulating this information onto numerous theoretical cells of proposed shading devices or any other outdoor locations. Then, different regions of the proposed shading devices or outdoor space can be graded with the overall degree of importance to provide either shading or solar penetration. Linking the cellular shading method directly to a thermal analysis engine provides for an unprecedented level of shading optimization - tailoring the shape and transparency of each shading device to its local climate, specific window, and associated thermal space. This level of accuracy in shading design is essential if the increasingly stringent levels of energy conservation required by future building regulations around the world are to be met.