The Influence of the Courtyard Geometry on the Passive Lighting Energy Savings

Abstract

Although there have been multiple studies on energy performance and thermal comfort of courtyard buildings, the effect of courtyard geometry factors have been studied much less. To gain new insight into this relationship, this study evaluated the role of geometry factors - the atrium shape and the ratio of length to width - on building lighting energy performance in courtyard building. First, more than ten ancient dwelling house in JiuFangGou village in Hubei Province were measured and modeled. Second, a series of lighting illuminance in 50 halls beside the courtyards were measured. Third, Five Typical Daylighting factor curve on 5 typical geometry factors were draw. Results show that courtyard which height to width ratio less than 1 have better lighting illuminance. No advantage was observed for height to width ratio more than 5. Result indicate that comprehensive consideration, height to width ratio between 3 and 5 and inverted V-shape courtyard profile form was suitable to the local area.