Conference Paper

Proceedings of SimBuild Conference 2024

Evaluating the Effects of Physical Parameters of Shanashir on Thermal Comfort based on UTCI Index, a Case Study

Mahya Fani ¹, Fatemeh Mehdizadeh Saradj ² , Nina Sharp ^3
1 The Design School, Arizona State University, United States of America
² School of Architecture and Environmental Design, Iran University of Science and Technology, Tehran, Iran
³ The Design School, Arizona State University, United States of America

Abstract: The relationship between sustainable architectural design and human thermal comfort is significant. Proper design and construction methods are crucial in reducing energy consumption and enhancing people's comfort. Traditional Iranian cities, constructed 150 years ago with limited knowledge of air circulation and ventilation, employed passive systems to achieve satisfactory thermal comfort using natural resources. This paper investigates the environmental aspects of Shanashir, a unique architectural element in Bushehr, a hot and humid city in Iran, and its impact on human thermal comfort. Shanashir, a narrow balcony with a wooden shading façade, offers various environmental benefits. This research explores different Shanashir types and characteristics, using Design Builder and Ladybug software to analyze their impact on thermal comfort based on the Universal Thermal Climate Index (UTCI). The results of this research outline the optimum physical characteristics of Shanashir to maximize thermal comfort in semi-outdoor spaces and indicate that a Shanashir with moderate height and depth (1.2meters) and with a 45-degree angle roof provides fewer days with intense heat stress and a higher comfort zone.
Keywords: Numerical simulation, Shanashir, Bushehr, Thermal comfort, Universal Thermal Climate Index
Pages: 626 - 636
Paper: