Couple simulations with CFD and ladybug + honeybee tools for green façade optimizing the thermal comfort in a transitional space in hot-humid climate

Abstract

Vertical gardens have become important strategies for urban heat island migration in recent years. However, the simulation tools for green façade (GF) with climbing plants coupling the shading and wind-induced effects are still lacked. This study focused on GF effects on human thermal comfort (HTC) optimization in a transitional space. The main purpose was to develop a couple method on HTC simulations. Field measurements in a hot-humid climate area were conducted to obtain the parameters of GF foliage layers. A couple simulation method with Ansys Fluent, Ladybug, and Honeybee tools was developed. Seven GFs layouts on a standard balcony model were simulated. In field measurements, the Ave. global irradiation was reduced by 73.29%, leaf area index was measured at 1.56–3.61, and foliage cover ratio was measured at 49.74–92.88%. In the simulations, the results of the Ave. wind velocity were reduced by 0.20–0.77 m s−1, the Ave. air temperature was reduced by 0.2°C, the Ave. mean radiant temperature was reduced by 0.5–7°C, and the Ave. physiological equivalent temperature was reduced by 0.3–3.2°C. The couple method could support the architectural and landscape design integrating with the GFs in future.