Monte Carlo simulation of indoor radiant environment

This paper describes a numerical method of radiant environment analysis in a complicated enclosure containing human bodies and furniture. An arbitrary configuration expressed in a three-dimensional co-ordinate system can be treated by this method. A unique space index and another surface index are proposed to specify the geometry of solid body and surface in the enclosure. The Monte Carlo method is used to determine direct interchange areas, which are then transformed into total exchange areas using the zone method. Energy balance equations accounting for thermal radiation, convection, wall conduction and air ventilation are then formulated for each solid surface segment in the enclosure. A human body model with skin temperatures and clothing is also proposed to simulate its heat release and to predict local thermal sensation around the body. As a practical application, this method is applied to the analysis of the radiant environment in a floor-heated meeting room with eight people seated around a table.