Optimization of Natural Ventilation of “Yinzi” Dwellings in Western Hunan Based on Orthogonal Experiment and CFD

The unique architectural style of traditional “Yinzi” dwellings in Western Hunan, China, needs to be protected and their natural ventilation of patio space should also be promoted. Therefore, this study aimed at finding out the natural ventilation values and limitations of “Yinzi” dwellings as well as designing an optimum ventilation strategy for such dwellings. In this work, the thermal environment of a typical “Yinzi” dwelling was tested. The two patios and living room space of “Yinzi” dwellings was selected for a quantitative analysis, and CFD software was adopted to simulate the stack effect of different patio proportions under the same static wind environment conditions. In addition, an orthogonal experiment is combined with CFD simulation to explore the best proportion and position of patio of “Yinzi” dwellings. A final optimum ventilation strategy is provided for the “Yinzi” dwellings, which can significantly promote the natural stack effect of “Yinzi” dwellings in summer.