Estudio del confort térmico en aulas de la Facultad de Arquitectura y Urbanismo de la Universidad de Cuenca mediante simulaciones en DesignBuilder y propuesta de mejoramiento térmico

Abstract

The present thesis focuses on the study of thermal comfort in the classrooms of the Faculty of Architecture and Urbanism at the University of Cuenca. A quantitative experimental methodology was employed, utilizing the DesignBuilder environmental simulation software to assess existing thermal variabilities. Due to the scope of the study, a strategic selection was carried out, choosing three representative classrooms, one from each building. The most significant issue identified was attributed to the poor quality of the joints between openings and windows, as well as between the carpentry and glass, leading to significant air infiltrations. The results of the thermal simulations revealed that the three analyzed classrooms experience discomfort primarily during the early morning hours, according to the ranges recommended by the national and international standards examined. Therefore, three thermal improvement strategies were proposed, which do not compromise the current formal configuration of the classrooms. These proposals focused on controlling air infiltrations and enhancing window airtightness using single-pane glass, double-glazed glass, and triple-glazed glass. It was concluded that the most effective strategy in terms of thermal improvement and economy is the installation of windows with single-pane glass, supported by elements that ensure proper sealing against air ingress, resulting in significant enhancements in achieving thermal comfort.