Implementation of a new bi-directional solar modelling method for complex facades within the ESP-r building simulation program

This paper provides an overview of a new method for modelling the total solar energy transmittance. It is implemented in the ESP-r building simulation program to model complex facades such as double glazed facades with external, internal or integrated shading devices. This new model has been validated and tested for several cases. The new model required changes to the solar control simulation algorithm and the user interface, so a new “Advanced optics menu” was also introduced into ESP-r. The paper presents the interface development and application of the new technique to different simulation configurations (especially different complex facades with shading devices) in a standard office building.