Sensitivity Analysis on the Impact of User Control on Daylight and Energy Simulations

Whilst simulation techniques for predicting building performance are maturing, questions still arise as to how key input assumptions, such as user control, ultimately affect the resultant predictions. A sensitivity analysis was performed to identify the impact of blinds control on daylighting and energy simulations. The analysis was performed on a side-lit office with simple and complex facade systems. Daylighting simulations were conducted using RADIANCE, while energy analysis was run through EnergyPlus. The study found statistical evidence that blinds' control influenced the evaluation of building performance, particularly for facade designs with no external shading. The impact of user control was highly dependent on the facade system, orientation, and climate.