Optimization of architectural design elements in tropical humid region with thermal comfort approach

The air temperature and humidity combined in the enthalpy have a strong impact on the perceived air quality, and perceived air quality determines the required ventilation in ventilation standard. In tropical humid climate, which is mainly characterized by an elevated air temperature and a high relative humidity, obtaining the comfort conditions in the buildings can make by permitting sufficient interior air velocity. Air movements inside a building depend not only on external wind velocity, but also a number of architectural design element. This study aims to find out the effect of architectural design in naturally ventilated building to obtain thermal comfort in tropical humid regions. The applicability of some architectural design elements such as type and location of window, balcony configuration, and interior division was assessed using numerical simulation. The analysis shows that balcony, most window configurations and interior division plays a significant role in modifying the indoor thermal condition but it does not always need a higher air speed. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.