Using Computational Fluid Dynamics to Assess Natural Airflow in a Prototype House-Interior

This paper presents an airflow study with Computational Fluid Dynamic (CFD) software that was used to model the natural ventilation attributes at the interior of a prototype house. This study informed the design development phase of the house and guided the design of a dynamic curtain wall involving a matrix of 3 x 9 openable windows for its south faA§ade. Alternative ways of modeling the building geometry were employed and different possible states of the house were examined to determine how change in the orientation and the basic dimensions of the envelope, and modifications in the number, distribution and angle of the open windows affect natural ventilation.