Framework for evaluating the thermal insulation performance of existing residential buildings using the infrared thermal image and image processing method

Abstract

Various green projects were executed to reduce the energy consumption in building sector. In particular, it is necessary to improve the thermal insulation performance of existing residential buildings. Even though it is critical to evaluate the thermal insulation performance in operation and maintenance phase, most of the policies and previous studies have focused on thermal insulation materials and systems in design phase. To address this limitation, this study aimed to develop the framework for evaluating the thermal insulation performance of existing residential buildings using the infrared thermal image and image processing method. Towards this end, this study was conducted in two steps: (i) establishment of the building information and infrared thermal image; and (ii) estimation of the thermal loss areas in building surface using the image processing. The result of this study could help building users and managers to estimate the thermal insulation performance in operation and maintenance phase.