Supportive diagrams for the building design process based on the adaptive thermal comfort model

Abstract

Diagrams can be used to analyze complex problems, facilitating decisions. As an example, we could mention the bioclimatic diagrams used to define guidelines for building design. However, bioclimatic diagrams are not compatible with the idea of adaptive thermal comfort. This research aimed to present diagrams to support the design process of small buildings with low energy demand and suitable for the concept of adaptive comfort. Based on an adaptive comfort model and existing diagrams, two diagrams and procedures for its application were elaborated. The diagrams were applied to the early design phases of small buildings' design process in Curitiba's climate. The results were compared with those obtained with the traditional Givoni diagram.  The comparison showed that the differences between both comfort models result in different guidelines. The alternative method also allowed an adequate analysis of the daily temperature range and ordered the design guidelines' application.