Influence of Shade Level, Wind Velocity, and Wind Direction on Interior Air Temperatures of Model Shade Structures

Abstract

The effect of four shade levels (47%, 63%, 80%, and 91%) on air temperature was evaluated using twenty-four arch-shaped, open-ended shade structures oriented with their longitudinal axis north-south. Each model shade structure was 0.8 m wide, 1.85 m long, and 0.8 m high. Six replicates per treatment (shade level) were randomly assigned within the experimental area. Light levels were measured using PAR sensors. Temperatures were measured using copper-constantan thermocouples installed 0.6 m above ground level and 0.2 m from the north entrance. Data from twenty consecutive days in August, 1994 were analyzed. The highest air temperatures were measured under 80% shade. However, the average difference between 63% and 91% shade was less than 1C and the average difference between 47% and 80% shade was 1.4C. Wind direction and wind speed affected air temperature. Analysis of the data showed averaged air temperatures differed by 1.4C or less for all shade levels.