Building envelope-systems integrated models: Topic 4

The need to design building envelopes as machines able to offer flexible behaviors due to the variability of the boundary conditions has led to study and develop a methodology for evaluating the correct relationship between casings’ energy performances and production systems connected to technical implants. The result was the definition of an application model, able to indicate the most appropriate mix of renewable energies in synergy with the casing. The objective is to maximize the use of renewable energies in compliance with general and functional needs related to the balance of the system. The study started from the identification and classification of types and families of building envelope, defining materials and operating principles. The simulations used in the assessment models were performed by integrating empirical data with predictive modeling. The matrix produced was implemented starting from the scenario of the typical needs of each building typology and of every function of it, making possible to evaluate in a forecasting way the variation of primary energy use depending on the performances of each solutions of envelopes. At the end of this consideration, the model produced was applied to two pilot projects, that constitute the most meaningful product of this research.