- Passive Architectural Design, Green architecture, Energy efficiency, Energy Efficiency Buildings, Bioclimatic Architecture, Bioclimatic design, and 24 moreSustainable Architecture, Sustainable Building Design, Building Energy Simulation, Energy Efficient Architecture, Energyplus, Thermal comfort, Passive Solar Architecture, Natural ventilation, Natural ventilation as a passive cooling strategy, Thermal Comfort, Ventilation and Daylight in a Building, Passive Ventilation Strategies in Buildings, Passive House Design, Passive Design Strategies, Passive Solar Design, Daylighting, Architectural Design, Daylight Simulation, Daylight modelling, Net Zero Energy Buildings, Thermal Performance of Buildings, Daylight, Daylighting, Sustainable Design, Thermal comfort & Energy efficiency in hot climates, and Climatic Design of Buildings in Different Climatic Zonesedit
Research Interests:
Natural light in the Cistercian churches is closely linked not only with the liturgical requirements at the " officium " but also with the canonical hours based on the "ora et labora" dictated by the Rule of St. Benedict. The Cistercian... more
Natural light in the Cistercian churches is closely linked not only with the liturgical requirements at the " officium " but also with the canonical hours based on the "ora et labora" dictated by the Rule of St. Benedict. The Cistercian architecture, in its beginnings (12th century forward) is characterized by austerity, simplicity and the play of light and shadow that gives value to the monastic architectural space itself, making it perfect for a contemplative experience. In the Cistercian Monastery the church is the central piece of the monastic building. Nave, transept and apse are the main architectural components to which is added the choir. This paper contextualizes the importance and close connections of natural light, within the Cistercian Monasteries architecture. Thus the essence of daylight is analysed within the Church of the Monastery of S. Bento de Cástris, in Évora, Portugal. This former Monastery (13th-19th centuries) includes the church, at the southeastern corner which has not only a high choir, but also a low lateral choir (within the presbytery). Its unchanged exterior walls are made of solid masonry. Although the function of the walls is primarily structural, the windows allow the daylight to penetrate the space of the church. The church has two external façades facing northeast and southeast. The combined orientation effect of the church's main axis and the sun trajectory determines how the sunlight reaches the interior of this architectural structure. This study presents the qualitative and quantitative analysis of the luminous environment in the church of S. Bento de Cástris, being the first based on the authors' perception of the effect of the daylight within the different areas of the enclosed space. The appreciation of the spatial experiences was supported by quantitative daylight simulations that were conducted in selected areas within the space. With this paper is intended to contribute to the debate about the specificity of daylight, in the context of Cistercian architecture.
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Building design and its components are the result of a complex process, which should provide pleasant conditions to its inhabitants. Therefore, indoor acceptable comfort is influenced by the architectural design. ISO and ASHRAE standards... more
Building design and its components are the result of a complex process, which should provide pleasant conditions to its inhabitants. Therefore, indoor acceptable comfort is influenced by the architectural design. ISO and ASHRAE standards define thermal comfort as the condition of mind that expresses satisfaction with the thermal environment. The energy demand for heating, beside the building's physical properties, also depend on human behaviour, like opening or closing windows. Generally, windows are the weakest façade element concerning to thermal performance. A lower thermal resistance allows higher thermal conduction through it. When a window is very hot or cold, and the occupant is very close to it, it may result in thermal discomfort. The functionality of a ventilated double window introduces new physical considerations to a traditional window. In consequence, it is necessary to study the local effect on human comfort in function of the boundary conditions. Wind, solar availability, air temperature and therefore heating and indoor air quality conditions will affect the relationship between this passive system and the indoor environment. In the present paper, the influence of thermal performance and ventilation on human comfort resulting from the construction and geometry solutions is shown, helping to choose the best solution. The presented approach shows that in order to save energy it is possible to reduce the air changes of a room to the minimum, without compromising air quality, enhancing simultaneously local thermal performance and comfort. The results of the study on the effect of two parallel windows with a ventilated channel in the same fenestration on comfort conditions for several different room dimensions, are also presented. As the room dimensions' rate changes so does the window to floor rate; therefore, under the same climatic conditions and same construction solution, different results are obtained.
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The aim of this paper is focused on the energy performance of buildings containing massive wall alternatives. The analysis comprised the comparison of the heating and cooling loads of seven characteristic wall configurations of one sample... more
The aim of this paper is focused on the energy performance of buildings containing massive wall alternatives. The analysis comprised the comparison of the heating and cooling loads of seven characteristic wall configurations of one sample building with different dynamic internal heat capacity (ISO 13790:2008) in spite of the equal thermal resistance. The equal thermal resistance, as derived from simple steady-state condition, was imposed in order to allow research of effects solely attributed to the wall heat capacity on the building performance. A detached one floor dwelling exposed to different climate conditions in Portugal was analysed to illustrate the effect of the same wall in terms of energy demand during cold and hot weather conditions. A whole-building dynamic modelling using EnergyPlus was employed for the energy analysis. The best thermal performance was obtained with massive walls that was located at the inner side, for a very heavy weight building and high building time constant.
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Windows have been under study for the last decade due to their improvements and for being the lowest thermal resistance component of the facades. Amongst this component, the building also loses heat as a result of airing needs. Thermal... more
Windows have been under study for the last decade due to their improvements and for being the lowest
thermal resistance component of the facades. Amongst this component, the building also loses heat as a
result of airing needs. Thermal losses through windows and ventilation may represent a large percentage
of the whole thermal losses of the building. The double ventilated window is one of several construction
systems that preheat the incoming air. It also reduces thermal losses through windows, reducing the
heating load of the building. Several studies have shown the performance of the ventilated double window
under different climatic conditions as well as the influence of different inputs. This paper shows how
this passive air heating system can be improved in order to collect more solar heat. Thermal balance was improved by 8.4% and 12.5% in Bragança and Évora, respectively, while the delivered air temperature
increased from 9.8 C to 11.9 C and from 13.5 C to 17.4 C in Bragança end Evora, respectively.
thermal resistance component of the facades. Amongst this component, the building also loses heat as a
result of airing needs. Thermal losses through windows and ventilation may represent a large percentage
of the whole thermal losses of the building. The double ventilated window is one of several construction
systems that preheat the incoming air. It also reduces thermal losses through windows, reducing the
heating load of the building. Several studies have shown the performance of the ventilated double window
under different climatic conditions as well as the influence of different inputs. This paper shows how
this passive air heating system can be improved in order to collect more solar heat. Thermal balance was improved by 8.4% and 12.5% in Bragança and Évora, respectively, while the delivered air temperature
increased from 9.8 C to 11.9 C and from 13.5 C to 17.4 C in Bragança end Evora, respectively.
Research Interests:
This paper presents results of a study investigating ventilation mode, solar heat gain and daylight performance via vertical fenestration of a common school building in Portugal. In recent years, there has been a growing awareness in... more
This paper presents results of a study investigating ventilation mode, solar heat gain and daylight performance via vertical fenestration of a common school building in Portugal. In recent years, there has been a growing awareness in energy-efficient building design and operation of the building stock. The windows are usually the first component to be
replaced by new and more efficient ones. Dynamic envelope/window
systems may optimize the performance of the building when taking into
account airing, solar heat gain rejection/acceptance and daylight admission. Higher thermal resistance glazing implies a reduction of solar transmittance. A typical school building located in Covilhã, Portugal was used for the study. Three different conventional windows were used for comparison: a single pane as found in the building, a double-pane to increase the thermal resistance and a double-pane with daylighting controls. Different simulation tools were used during this study. To be comparable with other studies, several ratios were present, namely the window/wall, the glazing/wall ratios, the window/floor and the glazing/floor ratios as well as the window opening area. This paper presents the obtained airflow and solar gains on both the heating and cooling season as well as the level of daylight for both overcast and nonovercast skies. The findings are essential for the assessment of passive building energy-saving techniques on a hypothetical building
refurbishment by replacing old windows. However, specific adaptive
actions to improve indoor environmental quality are also needed.
replaced by new and more efficient ones. Dynamic envelope/window
systems may optimize the performance of the building when taking into
account airing, solar heat gain rejection/acceptance and daylight admission. Higher thermal resistance glazing implies a reduction of solar transmittance. A typical school building located in Covilhã, Portugal was used for the study. Three different conventional windows were used for comparison: a single pane as found in the building, a double-pane to increase the thermal resistance and a double-pane with daylighting controls. Different simulation tools were used during this study. To be comparable with other studies, several ratios were present, namely the window/wall, the glazing/wall ratios, the window/floor and the glazing/floor ratios as well as the window opening area. This paper presents the obtained airflow and solar gains on both the heating and cooling season as well as the level of daylight for both overcast and nonovercast skies. The findings are essential for the assessment of passive building energy-saving techniques on a hypothetical building
refurbishment by replacing old windows. However, specific adaptive
actions to improve indoor environmental quality are also needed.
Research Interests:
Abstract This communication reflects the work done in the Department of Civil Engineering and Architecture at the University of Beira Interior (Portugal), and still ongoing, in the framework of the project ORFEUS - The Tridentine Reform... more
Abstract
This communication reflects the work done in the Department of Civil Engineering and Architecture at the University of Beira Interior (Portugal), and still ongoing, in the framework of the project ORFEUS - The Tridentine Reform and music in the cloistral silence: the Monastery of S. Bento de Cástris (Project FCT EXPL/EPH-PAT/2253/2013) and aims to bring the debate to a contribution to the study of the specificity of the monastery of St. Bento de Cástris in the context of Cistercian architecture, in which the shape and the music are intertwined.
In this way, two dissertations have been developed in Architecture (integrated master course of architecture of the University of Beira Interior) within the project ORFEUS, which are divided by the importance and contributions of the Cistercian Architecture in contemporary religious architecture, the morphology of the Cistercian churches and the relationship between architecture and music in the specific case study of the church of the monastery of St. Bento de Cástris.
Keywords: Cistercian Architecture; church; morphology; S. Bento de Cástris; ORFEUS
Resumo
Este artigo foi desenvolvido no âmbito de um projecto de investigação financiado pela Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia (FCT) com a referência EXPL/EPH-PAT/2253/2013 e intitulado “ORFEUS - A reforma tridentina e a música no silêncio claustral: o mosteiro de S. Bento de Cástris” sendo a instituição proponente a Universidade de Évora, através do Centro Interdisciplinar de História, Culturas e Sociedades (CIDEHUS), e sendo a Universidade da Beira Interior uma das instituições parceiras conjuntamente com a Universidade do Minho e a Universidade dos Açores.
(DECA-UBI, Lab2PT, CIDEHUS) - é arquitecta e investiga aprofundadamente o património e as arquitecturas de Cister em Portugal, a sua morfologia, inserção no território, sendo autora de vários trabalhos neste contexto e tendo sido responsável pelo estudo do edificado cisterciense de Cástris no âmbito do Projecto ORFEUS.
(UÉ, CIDEHUS, CEHR, HERCULES)
(DECA-UBI, C-Made) - tem formação base em arquitectura e engenharia civil e a sua investigação recai sobre a reabilitação arquitectónica e urbana, eficiência energética e luz natural, com particular incidência nas arquitecturas de Cister em Portugal, tendo apoiado cientificamente o Projecto ORFEUS.
(DECA-UBI) - é um jovem arquitecto que contribuiu para o estudo do legado cisterciense, no âmbito da sua dissertação de mestrado, enquanto output do Projecto ORFEUS.
(DECA-UBI) - é uma jovem arquitecta que contribuiu para o estudo do edificado cisterciense de Cástris, e a sua articulação com a música, no âmbito da sua dissertação de mestrado enquanto output do Projecto ORFEUS.
Antónia Fialho Conde e António Camões Gouveia Do Espírito do Lugar - Música, Estética, Silêncio, Espaço, Luz _______________________________________________________________________________
Resumo
Esta comunicação reflecte o trabalho desenvolvido no Departamento de Engenharia Civil e Arquitectura da Universidade da Beira Interior, e ainda em curso, no âmbito do Projecto ORFEUS - A Reforma tridentina e a música no silêncio claustral: o mosteiro de S. Bento de Cástris (Projecto FCT EXPL/EPH- PAT/2253/2013) e pretende-se com esta comunicação trazer a debate um contributo para o estudo da especificidade do Mosteiro de S. Bento de Cástris, no contexto da arquitectura cisterciense, no qual a forma e a música se entrelaçam. Neste sentido foram desenvolvidas duas dissertações de mestrado integrado em Arquitectura, no âmbito do Projecto ORFEUS, que se repartem pela importância e contributos da Arquitectura Cisterciense na Arquitectura religiosa contemporânea, a morfologia das igrejas cistercienses e a relação entre a arquitectura e música patente no estudo de caso da igreja do Mosteiro de S. Bento de Cástris.
Palavras-chave: Arquitectura Cisterciense, igreja, morfologia, S. Bento de Cástris, ORFEUS
This communication reflects the work done in the Department of Civil Engineering and Architecture at the University of Beira Interior (Portugal), and still ongoing, in the framework of the project ORFEUS - The Tridentine Reform and music in the cloistral silence: the Monastery of S. Bento de Cástris (Project FCT EXPL/EPH-PAT/2253/2013) and aims to bring the debate to a contribution to the study of the specificity of the monastery of St. Bento de Cástris in the context of Cistercian architecture, in which the shape and the music are intertwined.
In this way, two dissertations have been developed in Architecture (integrated master course of architecture of the University of Beira Interior) within the project ORFEUS, which are divided by the importance and contributions of the Cistercian Architecture in contemporary religious architecture, the morphology of the Cistercian churches and the relationship between architecture and music in the specific case study of the church of the monastery of St. Bento de Cástris.
Keywords: Cistercian Architecture; church; morphology; S. Bento de Cástris; ORFEUS
Resumo
Este artigo foi desenvolvido no âmbito de um projecto de investigação financiado pela Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia (FCT) com a referência EXPL/EPH-PAT/2253/2013 e intitulado “ORFEUS - A reforma tridentina e a música no silêncio claustral: o mosteiro de S. Bento de Cástris” sendo a instituição proponente a Universidade de Évora, através do Centro Interdisciplinar de História, Culturas e Sociedades (CIDEHUS), e sendo a Universidade da Beira Interior uma das instituições parceiras conjuntamente com a Universidade do Minho e a Universidade dos Açores.
(DECA-UBI, Lab2PT, CIDEHUS) - é arquitecta e investiga aprofundadamente o património e as arquitecturas de Cister em Portugal, a sua morfologia, inserção no território, sendo autora de vários trabalhos neste contexto e tendo sido responsável pelo estudo do edificado cisterciense de Cástris no âmbito do Projecto ORFEUS.
(UÉ, CIDEHUS, CEHR, HERCULES)
(DECA-UBI, C-Made) - tem formação base em arquitectura e engenharia civil e a sua investigação recai sobre a reabilitação arquitectónica e urbana, eficiência energética e luz natural, com particular incidência nas arquitecturas de Cister em Portugal, tendo apoiado cientificamente o Projecto ORFEUS.
(DECA-UBI) - é um jovem arquitecto que contribuiu para o estudo do legado cisterciense, no âmbito da sua dissertação de mestrado, enquanto output do Projecto ORFEUS.
(DECA-UBI) - é uma jovem arquitecta que contribuiu para o estudo do edificado cisterciense de Cástris, e a sua articulação com a música, no âmbito da sua dissertação de mestrado enquanto output do Projecto ORFEUS.
Antónia Fialho Conde e António Camões Gouveia Do Espírito do Lugar - Música, Estética, Silêncio, Espaço, Luz _______________________________________________________________________________
Resumo
Esta comunicação reflecte o trabalho desenvolvido no Departamento de Engenharia Civil e Arquitectura da Universidade da Beira Interior, e ainda em curso, no âmbito do Projecto ORFEUS - A Reforma tridentina e a música no silêncio claustral: o mosteiro de S. Bento de Cástris (Projecto FCT EXPL/EPH- PAT/2253/2013) e pretende-se com esta comunicação trazer a debate um contributo para o estudo da especificidade do Mosteiro de S. Bento de Cástris, no contexto da arquitectura cisterciense, no qual a forma e a música se entrelaçam. Neste sentido foram desenvolvidas duas dissertações de mestrado integrado em Arquitectura, no âmbito do Projecto ORFEUS, que se repartem pela importância e contributos da Arquitectura Cisterciense na Arquitectura religiosa contemporânea, a morfologia das igrejas cistercienses e a relação entre a arquitectura e música patente no estudo de caso da igreja do Mosteiro de S. Bento de Cástris.
Palavras-chave: Arquitectura Cisterciense, igreja, morfologia, S. Bento de Cástris, ORFEUS
Research Interests:
This paper aims to provide a debate on the multidisciplinary research achievements and knowledge concerning the Cistercian architectonic legacy in Portugal, connecting Architecture, Civil Engineering, Heritage, and History. Consequently,... more
This paper aims to provide a debate on the multidisciplinary research achievements and knowledge concerning the Cistercian architectonic legacy in Portugal, connecting Architecture, Civil Engineering, Heritage, and History. Consequently, this paper brings to debate the rehabilitation and morphology of the Cistercian Monasteries layout in Portugal, as well as the research on the Cistercian legacy conducted mainly at the Department of Civil Engineering and Architecture of the University of Beira Interior connected to two research centers: Lab2PT (Landscape, Heritage and Territory Laboratory) and CIDEHUS (Interdisciplinary Centre for History, Culture and Societies). The originality of this research is the multidisciplinary study and the results achieved in the research of the Cistercian legacy in Portugal as a system: the former monasteries and its architecture are the main subject concerning morphology, architectonic rehabilitation but also acoustics, thermal comfort, or natural light. Finally, the research methodology and results will be presented in the study case of the Monastery of S. Bento de Cástris and the work carried out for the FCT EXPL/EPH-PAT/2253/2013 Project also known as ORFEUS Project – The Tridentine Reform and music in the cloistral silence: The Monastery of S. Bento de Cástris – which was financed by the Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT) with community co-financing through the COMPETE program of QREN and the European Union (FEDER).
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This paper investigates the main characteristics of daylight on any window in a street canyon. The sky component and the light reflected from the surroundings are described to determine the vertical daylight factor (VDF). Several street... more
This paper investigates the main characteristics of daylight on any window in a street canyon. The sky component and the light reflected from the surroundings are described to determine the vertical daylight factor (VDF). Several street canyon types are characterized taking into account their different height/width and any level of the window is analysed. A simple calculation method uses trigonometric equations based on the sky and the geometry of the canyon. The results were previously evaluated considering different daylight procedures obtained by other studies. This study reveals that the reflectance within an urban canyon plays an importante role in the amount of daylight onto any window with more relevance in a deep canyon and low sky view. The graphical presentation that result from this investigation can rapidly assist building and urban designers in an early stage design where
assumptions and the lay out of the main design take place.
assumptions and the lay out of the main design take place.
Research Interests:
Research Interests:
Research Interests: Mechanical Engineering, Modeling, Heat Transfer, Performance, Construction, and 14 moreNumerical Simulation, Modelling and simulation, Ventilation, Wind, Natural ventilation, Thermal Performance, Solar radiation, Mathematical Model, Air Temperature, Interdisciplinary Engineering, Applied Thermal Engineering, Airflow, Parametric Study, and Solar Irradiance
An accepted design feature of passive buildings in the northern hemisphere has been to have small windows facing north and large windows facing the equator, in order to minimize losses on the north side while gaining solar heat on the... more
An accepted design feature of passive buildings in the northern hemisphere has been to have small windows facing north and large windows facing the equator, in order to minimize losses on the north side while gaining solar heat on the south. Solar gains and daylight are key passive strategies to improve energy performance without incurring additional construction and operational costs. The purpose of this research was to investigate how sustainable traditional government school buildings that can be found all over Portugal are in terms of more efficient use of energy and materials through design solutions. The selected case study is a typical vernacular located in Covilhã with cold winter and hot summer climate. The findings demonstrated that solar gains reduced the heating load in winter; however, the internal daylight level in the building was insufficient.
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RESUMO As estratégias bioclimáticas apontam para um conjunto de soluções a considerar nos edifícios com vista a uma melhor eficiência energética proporcionando as condições de conforto térmico adequado. A ventilação tem sido uma... more
RESUMO As estratégias bioclimáticas apontam para um conjunto de soluções a considerar nos edifícios com vista a uma melhor eficiência energética proporcionando as condições de conforto térmico adequado. A ventilação tem sido uma estratégia amplamente indicada para o arrefecimento dos edifícios, devendo ser controlada na estação de aquecimento, necessária de modo a garantir-se apenas a suficiente para a renovação do ar interior. Como a esta renovação do ar estão inevitavelmente associadas perdas térmicas, é objectivo deste artigo apontar para algumas soluções possíveis de compensação das perdas térmicas que se verificam com a renovação do ar. Há já diversos sistemas estudados que se destinam ao pré-aquecimento do ar de ventilação. Uns mais versáteis que outros, podendo a dupla janela ventilada ser utilizada em qualquer vão de fachada, independentemente da sua orientação, sempre com resultados positivos. Palavras chave: Pré-aquecimento do ar; Renovação do ar; Dupla janela ventilada 1 Ph. D. 2 Prof.
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ABSTRACT The thermal performance of the building envelope is of critical importance to the overall building performance. This paper presents an investigation of the influence of most common attic typologies used in Portuguese housing... more
ABSTRACT The thermal performance of the building envelope is of critical importance to the overall building performance. This paper presents an investigation of the influence of most common attic typologies used in Portuguese housing stock on heating/cooling loads of conditioned spaces under different weather conditions. Unused attics are part of the building envelope, which provide protection from the external environment acting as a buffer space. To improve this protective ability, some scenarios such as insulation, low emissivity, ventilation and the slant of the roof are considered. The aim of this study is to assess the influence of such scenarios by investigating through simulating the heat transfer between the attics and spaces underneath. The extent to which an improved attic steers towards low energy buildings is established where a dynamic U d-values can be as low as 0.15 W/(m2K) and the yearly thermal reduction may surpass 20%.
Research Interests:
This paper analyses the vernacular heritage housing built anonymously in Madeira Island, Portugal, which is a very specific type of vernacular heritage: once its primary function was of shelter, then housing and nowadays new uses are... more
This paper analyses the vernacular heritage housing built anonymously in Madeira Island, Portugal, which is a very specific type of vernacular heritage: once its primary function
was of shelter, then housing and nowadays new uses are being implemented. This study is the first part of a larger research that seeks to set a debate about this form of vernacular housing that includes such relevant issues as immaterial and cultural traditions. The approach was initially based on a survey of 66 houses, with almost a century, through a systematic analysis. The paper will analyze with more detail two specific housings that were refurbished thus acquiring
new uses. This paper aims to discuss in which way the different aspects of vernacular heritage rehabilitation can be a factor of cultural growth or development and how such transformation
may be achieved contributing for the knowledge about this particular type of housing.
was of shelter, then housing and nowadays new uses are being implemented. This study is the first part of a larger research that seeks to set a debate about this form of vernacular housing that includes such relevant issues as immaterial and cultural traditions. The approach was initially based on a survey of 66 houses, with almost a century, through a systematic analysis. The paper will analyze with more detail two specific housings that were refurbished thus acquiring
new uses. This paper aims to discuss in which way the different aspects of vernacular heritage rehabilitation can be a factor of cultural growth or development and how such transformation
may be achieved contributing for the knowledge about this particular type of housing.
Research Interests:
School buildings constitute a great part of the non-residential building stock and it is particularly important to ensure a good indoor air quality therein. Natural ventilation is frequently the only ventilation system available in most... more
School buildings constitute a great part of the non-residential building stock and it is particularly important to ensure a good indoor air quality therein. Natural ventilation is frequently the only ventilation system available in most of educational buildings. Therefore, ventilation rates are correlated with wind speed, wind direction, indoor-outdoor temperature difference and are closely related to building design. Unfortunately, this kind of ventilation is far from being reliable. The limited information available on the thermal comfort and indoor air quality, the absence of proper legislative measures and the lack of interest concerning ventilation efficiency may be some of the reasons for the non-resolution of this problem. School buildings face the same indoor air quality problems as any other building. Although the health and productivity of pupils and teachers is strongly affected by the indoor environmental quality of their school, a recent survey conducted in Portugal, revealed poor indoor air quality in all the schools under study, even for recently constructed or refurbished buildings. Another survey conducted in Portugal also reported that thermal comfort in an elementary school is barely achieved. Thermal comfort models are usually based on adult subjects, being no assurance that these models can be applied to children. Surveys conducted in school children aged 7-11 in Hampshire and Southampton, UK on thermal comfort indicate that children in a classroom have a different thermal perception compared with adults, showing that this is a sensitive subject to deal with that requires further studies, to ensure a comfortable and healthy environment for educational purposes. Another study showed that installation of ventilation systems with heat recovery is often difficult or even impossible in existing school buildings. Therefore, natural ventilation plays a crucial role in promoting the comfort and health of occupants. It has the potential to significantly save cooling energy during cooling season, but it is costly in terms of heating energy consumption during winter, but can also be beneficial from an energy perspective when free heating is available. Different studies have shown that double ventilated windows can promote natural aeration of indoor environment with warmer air than it is found outdoors. Besides, this system can promote sustainability and can be use both on old and new buildings. The studies were based on objective evaluation by monitoring indoor conditions and subjective occupant evaluation using questionnaires. Simulations using analytical methods for different boundary conditions such as temperature and pressure differences across openings were also used to determine thermal comfort and energy savings. The potential of this ventilated heat recovery system is evaluated in terms of energy savings and thermal comfort. The present chapter deals with effects of wind and temperature difference between indoor and outdoor environments on the stack ventilation performance in an average elementary school in Portugal. The results for the cold moderate climate regions of Portugal and other coldest climates show that while indoor air quality can be easily maintained, the heating potential and thermal comfort strongly depends on the natural ventilation strategy.
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Plants on building facades bring a better thermal behavior of the building during the summer. During winter time the studies are scarce. Several design parameters may affect the extent of this vegetation system on the improvement of... more
Plants on building facades bring a better thermal behavior of the building during the summer. During winter time the studies are scarce. Several design parameters may affect the extent of this vegetation system on the improvement of energy performance as the vegetation itself. The objective of this paper is to investigate the effects of vertical greenery systems on the energy consumption of buildings during winter conditions of Portugal. It involves performing EnergyPlus simulations after it was validated against other studies. The choice of design parameters for vertical vegetation is also important in making sure that it contributes to energy savings rather than energy consumption. It is found that vertical greenery systems are effective in lowering the thermal losses through North, East and West walls, thus it can improve the energy efficiency of the building mainly by insulating it. This resulted in lower annual energy load for heating. Simulations proofed that living wall systems on the walls facing south do not contribute to energy savings.
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Light levels in the churches of the Cistercian Order are mostly related to the fulfilment of liturgical needs. The compound building of Bernardas’ Convent includes a church at the utmost southern corner that dates back to the 17th... more
Light levels in the churches of the Cistercian Order are mostly related to the fulfilment of liturgical needs. The compound building of Bernardas’ Convent includes a church at the utmost southern corner that dates back to the 17th century. It only has one façade facing due southeast. This paper analyses the relationship between daylight conditions within the building before and after the urbanisation of the surrounding area; taking into account the relationship between the church, its main activities, and solar trajectory. A comparative analysis of the relationship between the actual surrounding context and the initial period after it was built (open field) is given. The highest reflectance of the street canyon has augmented the levels of available daylight.
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The Monastery of Our Lady of Nazareth of Mocambo in Lisbon, usually known as Bernardas’ Convent, was a Cistercian foundation. After the extinction of the religious orders, in 1834, the Monastery had several uses. In order to understand... more
The Monastery of Our Lady of Nazareth of Mocambo in Lisbon, usually known as Bernardas’ Convent, was a Cistercian
foundation. After the extinction of the religious orders, in 1834, the Monastery had several uses. In order to understand the
Bernardas’ Convent (or Monastery of Our Lady of Nazaré of Mocambo) we must keep in mind that the monastic space can
become a territorial organism which appropriates the territory, modelling and altering it according to its needs. A city consists
of complex relationships between both material and immaterial elements. These relationships give life and existence
to the city, sometimes through submission and sometimes as a result of reactions because the city is coexistence.
foundation. After the extinction of the religious orders, in 1834, the Monastery had several uses. In order to understand the
Bernardas’ Convent (or Monastery of Our Lady of Nazaré of Mocambo) we must keep in mind that the monastic space can
become a territorial organism which appropriates the territory, modelling and altering it according to its needs. A city consists
of complex relationships between both material and immaterial elements. These relationships give life and existence
to the city, sometimes through submission and sometimes as a result of reactions because the city is coexistence.
Double windows are a currently adopted construction system in Portuguese dwellings. Simple changes enable this construction system to pre-heat the ventilation air. The air coming from the outside circulates goes upward through the... more
Double windows are a currently adopted construction system in Portuguese dwellings. Simple changes enable this construction system to pre-heat the ventilation air. The air coming from the
outside circulates goes upward through the channel between windows where it is pre-heated before entering the building. Heat that escapes from inside through the inner window and solar
radiation, heats up the air between the two windows. This paper presents the performance of such passive system and focuses on the design aspects of this system and its building integration
in function of weather conditions. One type of building is used where the window is located on different facades, thus, different orientations. Four different weather conditions are chosen, from
mild to cold winters. The methodology used is based on previous validated parametric studies. Results indicate that the ventilated double window system offers an alternative to cold natural
ventilation in any cold region and any facade orientation. The colder the location, the higher the pre-heating of the incoming air. This study expects to help designers to conceive ventilated
double windows duly adapted to local climate where natural ventilation is an important design consideration and where energy consumption must be reduced.
outside circulates goes upward through the channel between windows where it is pre-heated before entering the building. Heat that escapes from inside through the inner window and solar
radiation, heats up the air between the two windows. This paper presents the performance of such passive system and focuses on the design aspects of this system and its building integration
in function of weather conditions. One type of building is used where the window is located on different facades, thus, different orientations. Four different weather conditions are chosen, from
mild to cold winters. The methodology used is based on previous validated parametric studies. Results indicate that the ventilated double window system offers an alternative to cold natural
ventilation in any cold region and any facade orientation. The colder the location, the higher the pre-heating of the incoming air. This study expects to help designers to conceive ventilated
double windows duly adapted to local climate where natural ventilation is an important design consideration and where energy consumption must be reduced.
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Keeping the indoor air quality within the reference levels requires that the polluted indoor air be replaced by fresh air coming from the outside. This paper presents a sensitivity analysis and a series of simulations where the... more
Keeping the indoor air quality within the reference levels requires that the polluted indoor air be replaced by fresh air coming from the outside. This paper presents a sensitivity analysis and a series of simulations where the performance of this passive system is studied. The influence of each relevant factor, like the wind, the solar radiation, and the outdoor air temperature, is assessed. Two different local sets of climatic data were chosen, a mild and a cold winter.
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Double windows are a currently adopted construction system in Portuguese residential buildings to prevent air leakage and thermal discomfort. We have changed this construction system so that it could be able to pre-heat the ventilation... more
Double windows are a currently adopted construction system in Portuguese residential buildings to prevent air leakage and thermal discomfort. We have changed this construction system so that it could be able to pre-heat the ventilation air between the windows. Simple changes consist in introducing vents at the base of the outer window to allow a supply of fresh air. Heat that escapes from inside through the inner window and solar radiation heat up the air between the two windows. Due to wind pressure and stack effect, the air rises and enters the room through a vent at the inside top of the system warmer than the outdoor air. A simulation program was built and validated with the use of test facilities, where different configurations of the system were tested. This paper presents the mathematical model and some results of a simulation work based on it. Parametrical studies were carried out by varying the airflow rate, the outdoor air temperature and the solar irradiance to predict the temperature rise and the useful energy of the delivered air. Results indicate an encouraging thermal performance of the ventilated double window offering itself as an alternative to cold natural ventilation.► The temperatures and airflows are the result of many simultaneous thermal and flow processes, influenced by the climactic conditions, the geometric and physical properties of the various components of the ventilated double window. ► A mathematical model to predict the thermal performance of a ventilated double window is suitable to building designers. ► A ventilated double window is capable of reducing the heating load of the building due to pre heating the ventilation air.
Research Interests: Mechanical Engineering, Modeling, Heat Transfer, Performance, Construction, and 14 moreNumerical Simulation, Modelling and simulation, Ventilation, Wind, Natural ventilation, Thermal Performance, Solar radiation, Mathematical Model, Air Temperature, Interdisciplinary Engineering, Applied Thermal Engineering, Airflow, Parametric Study, and Solar Irradiance
A study on thermal retrofit of Portuguese elementary school buildings is presented. The type of school under analysis is one adopted by a large construction campaign that began in the 1940's. This building stock has a very poor thermal... more
A study on thermal retrofit of Portuguese elementary school buildings is presented. The type of school under analysis is one adopted by a large construction campaign that began in the 1940's. This building stock has a very poor thermal performance and their retrofit was evaluated starting with a case study of a school in the central region of Portugal, where some experimental measures were performed and a calculation method was applied for the heating energy consumption estimation. A solution for the thermal retrofit of the school building external envelope was optimized and the effect on heating energy consumption was evaluated, using ECOTECT, resulting in a reduction of 52% of heating energy needs. The national impact of the thermal retrofit of the whole building stock was characterised in terms of energy savings. Finally, the pre‐heating of the ventilation air was also tested as a complementary measure and its effect evaluated. The solution tested may provide up to 1000 kWh/year of extra heat gains by pre‐heating the ventilation air. It must be underlined though that the performance of these systems is dependent on the thermal properties of their components so higher reductions can be achieved with the improvement of these properties.Straipsnyje pateikiami Portugalijos pradines mokyklos šiluminio atnaujinimo tyrimai. Analizuojamos mokyklos tipas yra vienas iš taikytu po 1940 metu prasidejusioje plačioje statybos kampanijoje. Šios pastatu grupes šilumines charakteristikos yra labai prastos. Ju atnaujinimo vertinimas buvo pradetas nuo centrineje Portugalijoje esančios mokyklos, kurioje buvo igyvendintos kai kurios eksperimentines priemones, ir energijos sanaudoms nustatyti pritaikytas skaičiavimo metodas. Pastato išoriniu atitvaru šiluminio atnaujinimo sprendimas buvo optimizuotas ir jo itaka šilumines energijos sanaudoms nustatyta naudojant ECOTECT. Šilumines energijos poreikis sumažejo 52 %. Iš viso pastatu fondo šiluminio atnaujinimo itaka nacionaliniu mastu vertinta sutaupytos energijos kiekiu. Pabaigoje kaip papildoma priemone buvo išbandytas pirminis vedinamo oro pašildymas, nustatytas jo naudingumas. Išbandytasis pirminis vedinamo oro pašildymas gali suteikti iki 1000 kWh/metus papildomo išsiskiriančio šilumos kiekio. Pabrežtina, kad nors šiu sistemu veikimo charakteristikos priklauso nuo ju komponentu šiluminiu savybiu, gerinant šias savybes galima daugiau sumažinti energijos sanaudu.
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This paper compares several different simplified methodologies for building energy performance assessment during winter time selected based on its large application and/or its user friendly characteristics. Hourly values for energy demand... more
This paper compares several different simplified methodologies for building energy performance assessment during winter time selected based on its large application and/or its user friendly characteristics. Hourly values for energy demand are calculated by a detailed comparison tool based on hourly weather data. A simplified building procedure spreadsheet to evaluate energy demand is also presented. It gives reliable results, needs only a little input data to describe the building design and low time consumption. The spreadsheet is therefore useful for preliminary design tasks in the early design stages where rough estimates of the building design and preliminary energy use are needed for primary decision support. The method is based on a seasonal heating calculation of heat losses and usable heat gains for the building, where the heat-accumulating capacity of the building is considered. The seasonal mean values of the solar radiation and degree days are applied. This paper describes the applied calculation technique and the assumptions made to carry out heating calculation.
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The Cistercian Monastery of São Bento de Cástris (13th-19th centuries), in Évora, Portugal, includes a church, at the south-eastern corner. Its unchanged exterior walls are made of solid masonry. Although the function of the walls is... more
The Cistercian Monastery of São Bento de Cástris (13th-19th centuries), in Évora, Portugal, includes a church, at the south-eastern corner. Its unchanged exterior walls are made of solid masonry. Although the function of the walls is primarily structural, the windows allow the daylight to penetrate the space of the church. The church has two external façades facing northeast and southeast. The Church of the Monastery presents an unusual space setting with two choirs which seems to favour different positions for coral groups supporting liturgical and musical expression activities within the research scope of the Project ORFEUS. The natural light in the Cistercian churches is closely linked not only with the liturgical requirements at the officium but also with the canonical hours based on the "ora et labora" dictated by the Rule of St. Benedict. Time is cyclical, as is the Cistercian cloister life, following summer and winter as well as the play of light and shadow that gives value to the monastic architectural space, making it perfect for a contemplative experience following the Rule of St. Benedict. Some of the Cistercian monasteries denote the importance given to the light in its own title: Clairvaux, Vauclair, Clairmarais. As the light in the Cistercian Monasteries, mainly, in their churches, is mostly related to the fulfilment of liturgical needs, this paper analyses the relationship between daylight conditions within the monastic choirs located within the monastic church. The chant was a very important way of oration thus of the liturgy. These two unusual locations of the choirs (an higher choir and a lateral choir) which worked as one and the levels of daylight are compared with the requirements needs of the modern world.
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Vernacular building traditions are repeatedly cited in the academic literature as exemplary models of environmental practice. This paper analyses through inquiries whether a very specific type of vernacular heritage housing in Madeira... more
Vernacular building traditions are repeatedly cited in the academic literature as exemplary models of environmental practice. This paper analyses through inquiries whether a very specific type of vernacular heritage housing in Madeira Island, Portugal provide comfort. Studies that explicitly examines these kind of vernacular housing and its inhabitants is unknown. Therefore, research that addresses the vernacular traditions of the Madeira Island may emphasize its potential for continuity and viability for maintenance end rehabilitation. Madeira's Housing is an important expression of the action of man over nature, making emerge a harmonious landscape between the built and its surroundings. In response to the accentuated topography, terraced platforms appeared to soften this inclination. Here the vernacular building revealed itself as a wise design, where the masters of the craft create a communion between the space, utility, comfort and the volumetric balance, emerging a new artificial element that connects with the natural space. A total of 13 recent questionnaire responses from the initially based survey of 66 houses, with almost a century, was analysed to understand the residents' satisfaction with existing conditions through post-occupancy evaluation. Several variables were associated with the dwelling and thermal comfort. It reports that the inhabitants have been able to achieve some degree of thermally comfortable conditions for much of the year. The results of this research provide valuable information for future housing sustainable rehabilitation. This may also enable the Local Authority, to identify ways of improving the quality of life for residents.
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Fishing communities integrated in urban areas settled at river fronts are often times exposed to flooding due to monsoons and the increasing of the water level. As a solution to this problem, buildings usually are built on stilts, with a... more
Fishing communities integrated in urban areas settled at river fronts are often times exposed to
flooding due to monsoons and the increasing of the water level. As a solution to this problem,
buildings usually are built on stilts, with a few variations depending on the materials available on
site. The traditions of the inhabitants dictate the empirical rules governing the construction and
maintenance of such buildings. The project presented in this paper proposes a house module
designed according to a sustainable, environmental and economic point of view, in order to
respond to the inhabitants needs, combining the knowledge of past generations on a demand to
ensure the preservation of the future. The case study of the present work takes place on the
waterfront of the River Bassac, on the city of Chau Doc, Vietnam. The proposal is designed with
different levels of social intervention in mind; it’s inspired on family values and sense of community,
typical of the Vietnamese culture, and takes form in a house module, developed according to the
locals needs, but also spanning to the level of neighbourhood and community, respecting the
Vietnamese way of life. The main construction material is Bamboo, typical in the Vietnamese
landscapes, easily handled by locals, making the house largely sustainable, with relatively low
cost, allowing the inhabitants to engage in its construction and maintenance. Other sustainable
achievements through architectural design are the use of a rainwater collector, which supply the
needs of water for sanitary and kitchen needs. Another achievement is a waste water reservoir,
solving the sewage problem. The river water pollution is due to untreated sewage, which is a
serious pollution problem, creating health problems. The main goal of this project is to ensure that
architecture can respond to the needs of a sustainable lifestyle, through a basic construction,
suiting the needs of the inhabitants using materials from the surrounding areas, conforming to
tradition, and achievable to ordinary citizens, thus guarantying a good quality of life and improving
the sense of community.
flooding due to monsoons and the increasing of the water level. As a solution to this problem,
buildings usually are built on stilts, with a few variations depending on the materials available on
site. The traditions of the inhabitants dictate the empirical rules governing the construction and
maintenance of such buildings. The project presented in this paper proposes a house module
designed according to a sustainable, environmental and economic point of view, in order to
respond to the inhabitants needs, combining the knowledge of past generations on a demand to
ensure the preservation of the future. The case study of the present work takes place on the
waterfront of the River Bassac, on the city of Chau Doc, Vietnam. The proposal is designed with
different levels of social intervention in mind; it’s inspired on family values and sense of community,
typical of the Vietnamese culture, and takes form in a house module, developed according to the
locals needs, but also spanning to the level of neighbourhood and community, respecting the
Vietnamese way of life. The main construction material is Bamboo, typical in the Vietnamese
landscapes, easily handled by locals, making the house largely sustainable, with relatively low
cost, allowing the inhabitants to engage in its construction and maintenance. Other sustainable
achievements through architectural design are the use of a rainwater collector, which supply the
needs of water for sanitary and kitchen needs. Another achievement is a waste water reservoir,
solving the sewage problem. The river water pollution is due to untreated sewage, which is a
serious pollution problem, creating health problems. The main goal of this project is to ensure that
architecture can respond to the needs of a sustainable lifestyle, through a basic construction,
suiting the needs of the inhabitants using materials from the surrounding areas, conforming to
tradition, and achievable to ordinary citizens, thus guarantying a good quality of life and improving
the sense of community.
Research Interests:
This paper presents some of the findings of a wider study on a ventilated double window as a system to pre-heat the ventilation air. The study focused on the design aspects of this system as a function of airflow pattern generated by... more
This paper presents some of the findings of a wider study on a ventilated double
window as a system to pre-heat the ventilation air. The study focused on the design aspects of
this system as a function of airflow pattern generated by stack and wind effect. Experimental
measurements of the thermal performance of the ventilated double window were carried out in
an outdoor environment in the winter season. In the experiments, the outside and inside temperatures,
the airflow rate and also the temperatures distribution along the window ventilated
cavity were measured every minute. In this paper, some of the experimental results are presented.
Field results from this study are expected to help designers to conceive ventilated double
windows duly adapted to local climate where ventilation is an important design consideration
and heat loss must be reduced. The tested system proved to be able to contribute significantly
for this reduction.
window as a system to pre-heat the ventilation air. The study focused on the design aspects of
this system as a function of airflow pattern generated by stack and wind effect. Experimental
measurements of the thermal performance of the ventilated double window were carried out in
an outdoor environment in the winter season. In the experiments, the outside and inside temperatures,
the airflow rate and also the temperatures distribution along the window ventilated
cavity were measured every minute. In this paper, some of the experimental results are presented.
Field results from this study are expected to help designers to conceive ventilated double
windows duly adapted to local climate where ventilation is an important design consideration
and heat loss must be reduced. The tested system proved to be able to contribute significantly
for this reduction.
Research Interests:
The Monastery of Our Lady of Nazareth of Mocambo in Lisbon, usually known as Bernardas’ Convent, was a Cistercian foundation. After the extinction of the religious orders, in 1834, the Monastery had several uses. As the building had to be... more
The Monastery of Our Lady of Nazareth of Mocambo in Lisbon, usually known as Bernardas’ Convent, was a Cistercian foundation. After the extinction of the religious orders, in 1834, the Monastery had several uses. As the building had to be preserved under historical regulation its unchanged exterior walls are made of solid masonry which dominates construction throughout the history. The historic building has also been experiencing a change in indoor climate due to the higher standards of comfort that are required. Although the function of the walls is primarily structural as well as durable and weather resistant, other performance requirements such as sound penetration resistance, fire resistance and energy efficiency must now be fulfilled. This paper aims to discuss and to explore factors of city growth and cultural development.
Research Interests:
Throughout human history the "green" element has always been present. The gardens comprised many purposes, as sacred spaces, leisure, cure; as architectural elements which characterized outdoor spaces; were also an experimental field.... more
Throughout human history the "green" element has always been present. The gardens comprised many purposes, as sacred spaces, leisure, cure; as architectural elements which characterized outdoor spaces; were also an experimental field. Buildings acquire a vegetable aesthetic language with the dawn of Jugendstil and Art Nouveau. Through ecological theories artists, as Hundertwasser emerge, and manifestos for the use of “green” by architecture and the city were written. Through the end of the 20th century and early 21th century the acquired garden concept has been challenged. The horizontal roof was then an experimental ground on which architecture could respond to a new challenge: the green facades or vertical gardens. New architectural elements are created which adverse
environmental conditions are mitigated, either on new construction or on architectural rehabilitation. In the C-MADE,
at the UBI, the GEOGREEN research project in this field is being carried out supported by FCT.
environmental conditions are mitigated, either on new construction or on architectural rehabilitation. In the C-MADE,
at the UBI, the GEOGREEN research project in this field is being carried out supported by FCT.
Research Interests:
Esta comunicação reflecte o trabalho desenvolvido no Departamento de Engenharia Civil e Arquitectura da Universidade da Beira Interior, e ainda em curso, no âmbito do Projecto ORFEUS - A Reforma tridentina e a música no silêncio... more
Esta comunicação reflecte o trabalho desenvolvido no Departamento de
Engenharia Civil e Arquitectura da Universidade da Beira Interior, e ainda em curso, no âmbito do Projecto ORFEUS - A Reforma tridentina e a música no silêncio claustral: o mosteiro de S. Bento de Cástris (Projecto FCT EXPL/EPHPAT/2253/2013) e pretende-se com esta comunicação trazer a debate um contributo para o estudo da especificidade do Mosteiro de S. Bento de Cástris, no contexto da arquitectura cisterciense, no qual a forma e a música se entrelaçam.
Neste sentido foram desenvolvidas duas dissertações de mestrado integrado em Arquitectura, no âmbito do Projecto ORFEUS, que se repartem pela importância e contributos da Arquitectura Cisterciense na Arquitectura religiosa contemporânea, a morfologia das igrejas cistercienses e a relação entre a arquitectura e música patente no estudo de caso da igreja do Mosteiro de S. Bento de Cástris.
Engenharia Civil e Arquitectura da Universidade da Beira Interior, e ainda em curso, no âmbito do Projecto ORFEUS - A Reforma tridentina e a música no silêncio claustral: o mosteiro de S. Bento de Cástris (Projecto FCT EXPL/EPHPAT/2253/2013) e pretende-se com esta comunicação trazer a debate um contributo para o estudo da especificidade do Mosteiro de S. Bento de Cástris, no contexto da arquitectura cisterciense, no qual a forma e a música se entrelaçam.
Neste sentido foram desenvolvidas duas dissertações de mestrado integrado em Arquitectura, no âmbito do Projecto ORFEUS, que se repartem pela importância e contributos da Arquitectura Cisterciense na Arquitectura religiosa contemporânea, a morfologia das igrejas cistercienses e a relação entre a arquitectura e música patente no estudo de caso da igreja do Mosteiro de S. Bento de Cástris.
Research Interests:
The energy efficiency of a building is determined by a set of environmental, technical and usage factors. By integrating the building into the surrounding environment and incorporating efficient technologies into the construction the... more
The energy efficiency of a building is determined by a set of environmental, technical and usage factors. By integrating the building into the surrounding environment and incorporating efficient technologies into the construction the design will contribute to overall goals. This can include the adoption of certain strategies like the implementation of natural ventilation, effective shading, the construction of sunspaces, thermal storage walls or other passive solutions, the use of solar collectors, etc. One of those strategies is the pre-heating of ventilation air and a variety of technical solutions have been studied and tested in order to compensate for thermal losses due to air renovation. The incoming air is pre-heated passively before entering indoors. For this purpose one can use an earth-to-air heat exchanger, enclosed spaces, solar collectors or different kinds of transparent facades. Recently, a study was carried out at the University of Beira Interior, Portugal where a double ventilated window was tested under real outdoor conditions. This passive heating system derived from the double window system that is currently adopted in Portuguese residential buildings to prevent air leakage and thermal discomfort. Simple changes were made by introducing vents at the base of the outer window and at the top of the inner window to allow a supply of fresh air through it. The air coming from the outside rises through the channel between windows, due to wind pressure and stack effect. The air is pre-heated by the heat that escapes from inside through the inner window and by the incident solar radiation before entering the building acting as a heat exchanger. Experimental studies show that this technique is capable of supplying air to the interior of the building at a higher temperature than the air outside. In this paper, some of the experimental results are presented. A parametric analysis was also carried out to determine the performance of this passive heating system. It took into account the physical phenomena of heat and mass flow processes and also geometric and boundary conditions. This low cost building technology can be implemented in new and existing buildings and proved to be effective in reducing heating energy consumption. Field results from this study are expected to help designers to conceive ventilated double windows duly adapted to local climate where ventilation is an important design issue and heat loss must be reduced.