Mass regimes geometrically actuated thermal flows

Abstract

This research project investigates the effect of complex geometry on the process of passive heat distribution in thermal mass systems with the intention of instrumentalizing design principles that effectively engage a greater thermal gradient between buildings and their environment. The focus is on a deeper understanding of how specific morphological manipulation of mass distribution to surface area affects the rate of thermal transfer and how the surface area geometry can become an effective agent in energy collection, throughput, storage and re-radiation of sensible heat. The goal was to gain deeper insight into performative trends that may enhance creative design thinking about thermal mass by leveraging physical simulation of geometric populations along with current computational and design tools. Preliminary analysis of these populations suggest the possibility for a more synthetic incorporation of morphology, one in which surface geometry can be passively utilized to generate effects with more fidelity over the pace of thermal absorption and the release of sensible heat. Such understanding may be significant in gaining wider acceptance by the design community to engage thermal mass systems with greater attention.