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Assessment of Shading Devices for Reducing Solar Heat Gain in Office Buildings

Abstract

Solar heat gain is a major contributor to indoor temperature increases and cooling demand in office buildings, particularly in tropical and warm climates where buildings are exposed to intense solar radiation throughout much of the year. Excessive solar radiation entering through windows and striking external building surfaces can increase indoor heat loads, reduce thermal comfort, and increase dependence on mechanical cooling systems. Shading devices provide an important passive design approach for controlling solar exposure while maintaining daylight and visual connection with the external environment. Their appropriate application can therefore contribute to improved energy efficiency and indoor environmental quality. This study assesses the effectiveness of different shading devices for reducing solar heat gain in office buildings. The research examines horizontal overhangs, vertical fins, louvers, egg-crate systems, external blinds, and other fixed or adjustable shading elements. Particular attention is given to the relationship between shading configuration, window orientation, solar exposure, and indoor thermal conditions. The study evaluates how different shading strategies can limit direct solar radiation while maintaining adequate daylight and natural ventilation where applicable. The research investigates the influence of shading geometry, depth, spacing, angle, material properties, and placement on solar control performance. Horizontal shading devices may be particularly useful on façades receiving high-angle solar radiation, while vertical elements can provide greater control where sunlight approaches from lower angles. Adjustable shading systems can respond to changing solar conditions throughout the day and across different seasons. The effectiveness of these systems, however, depends on building orientation, window-to-wall ratio, local climate, and the position of the sun. The study also considers the interaction between shading devices and other components of office building design. Window glazing, façade materials, building orientation, natural ventilation, daylighting, internal heat gains, and thermal insulation can influence the overall performance of a shading system. Poorly designed shading may reduce useful daylight or obstruct views, while appropriately designed devices can balance solar control with visual and environmental requirements. The research therefore considers shading as part of an integrated building envelope strategy rather than an independent architectural feature. The findings are expected to provide useful information for architects, building designers, facility managers, and developers seeking practical methods for reducing solar heat gain in office environments. Effective shading devices can lower indoor surface and air temperatures, improve thermal comfort, and reduce cooling loads and associated energy consumption. The study may also identify appropriate shading solutions for different façade orientations and climatic conditions, supporting more informed decisions during the design and retrofit of office buildings. Ultimately, the study aims to establish a clearer understanding of the performance of different shading devices in controlling solar heat gain in office buildings. By evaluating shading geometry, orientation, material characteristics, and interactions with other building envelope components, the research contributes to the development of passive and energy-efficient office design strategies. The findings can support the integration of effective solar control measures into contemporary office architecture while maintaining appropriate levels of daylight, visibility, comfort, and occupant satisfaction.

Keywords: Shading devices, Solar heat gain, Office buildings, Solar control, Thermal comfort, Building envelope, External shading, Horizontal overhangs, Vertical fins, Louvers, Window design, Energy efficiency, Passive design, Tropical architecture.