Development of a Computational Model for a Prototype Testing Room With Integrated ABE System

Active Building Envelope (ABE) systems are a new enclosure technology which integrate photovoltaic (PV) and thermoelectric (TE) technologies. In ABE systems, a PV system is used to transfer solar energy directly into electrical energy, which is used to power a TE heat-pump system for space cooling or heating. In this study, we have built a computational model to predict the indoor temperature of an outdoor testing room and its integrated ABE system. The computational model uses the finite differential method, and includes the computation of solar radiation, heat transfer through the testing room surfaces and the ABE-window, and a model for the indoor air. We have verified the model’s accuracy by comparing the simulation results of this model with actual temperature data. We have found that there was good correlation between the model’s prediction for indoor temperature, and the actual temperature measurements for our testing room. The model will be used in further studies to assess the effectiveness of the ABE system.