A low-cost framework to establish internal blind control patterns and enable simulation-based user-centric design

Abstract

The literature emphasises the important role that occupants play on the energy performance of buildings, and increasing knowledge of drivers for human-building interactions is required. However, innovative sensors or technology are not always available – especially in developing countries – and stakeholders from the building sector may struggle to reach meaningful outcomes. Therefore, we propose a low-cost framework to assess patterns of internal blind control that can be replied in different locations. It is a questionnaire-based evaluation, which infers self-reported patterns of behaviour, as well as non-physical parameters and building characteristics that influence internal blind adjustments. A case study applying the framework was conducted in Florianópolis, southern Brazil, and the results are presented. Three control patterns were identified using hierarchical cluster analysis, which provides valuable insights to estimate building energy consumption considering the influence of user behaviour in performance simulations. Also, Chi-square tests showed an association of building characteristics – solar orientation and distance between user and window – to the internal blind adjustments. This case study supports the role of user-centric design as by understanding drivers for occupant behaviour one may adapt buildings and systems to the needs or preferences of users. Along these lines, if typical patterns of behaviour, as well as main triggers for adjustments, are found, simulation-based evaluations may present to stakeholders the best options of blind properties (e.g., considering finishings or colours). Finally, this framework makes room to combine information found on field studies to published models and algorithms of internal blind control.