A Replicable Methodology to Evaluate Passive Façade Performance with SMA during the Architectural Design Process: A Case Study Application

Huge efforts have been spent in the last decades to improve energy savings in the building sector, particularly focusing on the role of façades. Among the explored viable solutions Climate Adaptive Building Shells [CABS] are considering promising solutions to control solar radiation both in terms of illuminance and heating levels, but still piloting experiences due to their complex design and relevant costs. The present study aims to provide a speedy but reliable methodology to evaluate the potential impacts of the adoption of active/passive CABS systems during the preliminary design stage. The proposed methodology allows to evaluate, and compare when multiple options are considered, the effects of each solution in terms of energy need, thermal comfort and lighting while reducing the required effort and time for an extensive analysis at overall building level. This is based on the use of a “virtual test room” where different conditions and configurations can be explored. A case study in the city of Bologna is included for demonstration purposes. The achieved results allow to support decisions regarding energy behavior (over/under heating), indoor comfort, lighting and energy at an early design stage.