Experimental investigation of an integrated renovation solution combining diffuse ceiling ventilation and double skin façade

A novel renovation solution was proposed recently by integrating diffuse ceiling ventilation and double skin façade. This study presents an experimental investigation on the performance of the novel solution in a small-scale classroom. The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential in combining the diffuse ceiling ventilation principle with the double-skin façade through the thermal comfort and passive energy performance evaluation in two operation modes: heating mode and cooling mode. The performance of the novel solution was compared to a traditional renovation solution installed in an identical room. The results showed that the novel solution achieved comparable or even superior thermal comfort than traditional renovation solution. In winter, the DSF is able to recover the transmission loss through the glazing and capture the heat gain by solar radiation. The heat recovery rate can reach up to 1.2 when solar radiation was strong. In summer, the air ventilated the DSF cavity and served as an air curtain to remove part of the heat gain. Consequently, it reduces the heat gain to the room and maintains lower indoor temperature than the traditional solution. Benefit of the further activation of thermal mass, the novel solution can reduce the peak operative temperature and shift the peak hour to later of the days. Further research is needed to optimize the system's control strategies and integrate solar shading device in the control strategy.