View Factor

This paper presents a model to estimate the solar radiation under clear sky conditions over stationary, moving as well as flying objects. For the latter it is important to predict the peak solar irradiance under clear sky condition to calculate maximum possible solar thermal loading. In this paper results of irradiation over surface on ground and over aircraft windows and windshields at cruise altitude are presented. Another model implemented, calculates the view factor between two or more surfaces. Determination of the long-wav e radiant heat exchange between two or more surfaces or heat exchange with a surface itself requires a view factor matrix. There are several analytical solutions available to calculate view factors for simple and known configurations. Many building simulation programs estimate the view factors in a simplified way, especially when complex geometries are involved. The simplified approach may result in high errors of surface temperatures, which can further cause error in energy balance and estimation of comfort level. The purpose of creating this model is to calculate view factors between complex geometries. The view factor matrices of an enclosed space and of a geometry with openings on its surfaces are presented in this paper. A sensitivity analysis of a view factor matrix is also presented. e radiant heat exchange between two or more surfaces or heat exchange with a surface itself requires a view factor matrix. There are several analytical solutions available to calculate view factors for simple and known configurations. Many building simulation programs estimate the view factors in a simplified way, especially when complex geometries are involved. The simplified approach may result in high errors of surface temperatures, which can further cause error in energy balance and estimation of comfort level. The purpose of creating this model is to calculate view factors between complex geometries. The view factor matrices of an enclosed space and of a geometry with openings on its surfaces are presented in this paper. A sensitivity analysis of a view factor matrix is also presented.