Monitoring and modelling the operation of internal shading devices in offices: a literature review

Abstract

The influence of user behaviour on the performance of buildings has been discussed in the literature. Regarding the operation of non-automated internal blinds/shades in offices, it is up to the occupant to balance the use of daylight as well as the reduction of incident solar radiation by adjusting the internal blinds/shades throughout the occupied period. This study aims to review the national and international literature of the last ten years (from 2009 up to 2019) to summarise the knowledge produced so far regarding the monitoring and modelling of internal blinds/shades operation in offices. Several suitable methods have been identified to monitor users' behaviour; such methods result in both subjective (personal preferences) and objective (affecting environmental variables) information. The challenge in this area is to combine different information to model user behaviour realistically and accurately. It was concluded that advances in the monitoring and modelling of behaviours improve the practices of computer simulation and the development of user-centred building automation systems. Finally, it is noteworthy that continuously monitoring user behaviour patterns allows to obtain feedback on automated systems in order to enhance them during their lifespan.

Keywords:
Internal blinds/shades; User behaviour; Computer simulation; Energy efficiency; Developing countries