A solar wall simulation module

A solar wall is a complex part of the building envelope, as it acts as an energy collector, passing solar energy from the exterior surface into the building with a time delay and in the same time reducing thermal losses during periods with no sunshine. A module for simulating solar walls in a Danish building simulation program (tsbi3) has been developed to analyze the interaction between a solar wall and the building behind. Among the more solar wall specific features, the module includes equations for calculation of solar transmittance through systems of multiple transparent insulation materials and for air-flows driven by the stack effect.