Optimizing Transitional Season Comfort: A Case Study on Thermal Performance of Open Courtyard and Walkway Plaza Designs
摘要
The transitional season happens in October, which is expected to decrease the summer temperature towards the winter. Thermal comfort can also be perceived, and more outdoor activities can be engaged. In studying the relationship between direct sunlight and the material used in the courtyard and walkway plaza, this study aims to compare the shaded and non-shaded areas. The methodology applied for this study is the observation data recorded at two primary locations: the open courtyard as the non-shaded area and the walkway plaza as the shaded area. The Infrared thermal imager Zeyuan ST9450 and the Testo 174H air temperature and humidity logger were used for the research instruments. The data from both locations were examined, and the comparison between the reads was analyzed. The findings suggested that the temperature in the shaded area was much more relaxed than in the non-shaded area, and both areas had the same temperature during the night. Additionally, studies have shown that a material’s surface reflectivity significantly reduces solar radiation and prevents an increase in surface temperature. It also agreed that the hardscapes, such as the paving areas, have a higher temperature than the softscape areas. The humidity comparison shows that the softscape area has more humidity than the hardscape. This study contributes to the understanding of the vital consideration of the building orientation on the sun path to create more shaded areas as potential outdoor and recreational areas specifically for the hot-arid climate.