Abstract
Passive solar energy systems are discussed in the context of global energy resources and energy flows. The generic forms of passive solar systems are characterized in terms of the comfort variables. This characterization is one part of an overall design philosophy based on geometrical, thermophysical and operational parameters. This philosophy includes explicit consideration of the institutional, sociological, political and economic dimensions of passive solar design. A design methodology is developed so that control systems can be evaluated for each generic type of passive solar structure. The evaluation concentrates on the relationship of insolation to the comfort variables, and on controls which impact this relationship. It employs numerical simulation in optimizing various insolation control options. Practical embodiments of these options are discussed and analyzed, and issues are identified.
Hourmanesh, Mohsen (1979). Natural energy sources and passive energy systems in architecture. Doctoral dissertation, Texas A&M University. Texas A&M University. Libraries. Available electronically from
https : / /hdl .handle .net /1969 .1 /DISSERTATIONS -131998.