Optimizing the modular adaptive façade control strategy in open office space using integer programming and surrogate modelling

Adaptive façades (AFs) are dynamic building envelopes that can adapt to dynamic changes in building environments and their occupants. As the popularity of shared open space increases, so does the demand for modular adaptive façades (MAF) that feature individually controllable units. However, the potential of MAF is currently limited by a lack of control strategy, and a high degree of adaptivity which makes traditional simulation-based methods ineffective. This paper proposes a method that can create a real time MAF control strategy by combining a fast-linear daylight surrogate model with an integer programming algorithm. The proposed method can achieve a more improved performance, in less time, than traditional simulation-based methods. Through four sets of case studies, it's found that the modular control strategy can be of significant benefit in adaptive façade design. It was also established that various forms of adaptive façade units require a higher control complexity to reach their potential.