DEVELOPMENT OF A RESPONSE FACTOR MODEL FOR THERMO-ACTIVE BUILDING FOUNDATION

摘要

A transient three-dimensional finite difference numerical model was developed for the analysis of thermo-active foundations. The numerical model predictions were validated against experimental data obtained from laboratory testing. Using the validated 3D numerical model, a series of parameter sensitivity analyses was performed. It was found that the foundation depth, the shank space, the fluid flow rate, and thermal conductivity of ground and concrete affected the thermal performance of a thermo-active foundation system. Moreover, utilizing the numerical model, thermal response factors for thermo-active foundations were developed and implemented into a whole building energy simulation program. The thermal-response factor method was then used to estimate the effects of thermo-active foundations to reduce the energy consumption needed to condition commercial buildings.