Evaluate reference sensor
Possible positions for real wind sensors are examined for free flow and local interference.
CFD Flow Simulation · Facade Automation · BMS
Wind analysis for robust blind and shading control
topic
From simulation to control
Many load cases. One clear control logic.
We use CFD flow simulations to assess building aerodynamics, local wind loads on the facade and suitable wind sensor positions. The results are converted into transparent control zones and transfer matrices for external blinds, solar shading and building automation.
Use in the building
Prevent wind damage without shutting down the entire facade
External blinds can be damaged by high local wind loads if they react too late or in an undifferentiated manner. A differentiated wind control system moves exposed areas into a safe position and keeps protected blinds available.
- More usable sun protection and better daylight quality
- Targeted protection instead of a building-wide blanket response
- Traceable operating states for planning and operation
CFD in motion
Understand wind effects in space and time
For the unsteady CFD simulation shown, the flow direction is varied over 360°. This allows all wind directions to be examined; At the same time, temporal speed fluctuations and turbulent flow structures on facades, edges and recesses are taken into account.
Sensor technology and evaluation
From wind sensor to control matrix
The matrix is created from the comparison between a measurable reference signal and the local wind effect on the facade. In this way, many simulation points become manageable control logic.
Set facade points
Virtual evaluation points are representatively located in the blind level as well as closer to corners, recesses and edge areas.
Compare reaction patterns
For each wind sector, the local facade effect is compared with the reference signal. Similar courses form a zone.
Transfer zones into the matrix
A comprehensible, conservative transmission factor for the BMS logic is defined for each wind sector and control zone.
Exemplary evaluation
Wind speeds on the wind sensor
The comparison shows whether a potential sensor position records the wind events in all directions in a sufficiently stable and representative manner.
Typical result
Facade plan with control zones
Z1Z2Z3
Z4Z5Z6
Z7Z8Z9
Zoning follows similar wind responses across multiple wind sectors - not automatically across floors or individual windows.
Important distinction
The points on the facade are usually virtual CFD evaluation points and not real built-in sensors. The operating signal is provided by one or more real wind sensors; the transfer matrix translates this signal to the different facade zones.
The decisive step
Control logic instead of a flood of images
The added value lies not only in the CFD calculation, but in the translation into usable control logic. We condense variants, wind directions and facade areas into a structure with which planning and operations can continue to work.
- Assignment of facade sections and control groups
- Illustration of relevant wind direction and load case classes
- Documented states, priorities and interfaces
- Comprehensible basis for BMS specialist planning and commissioning
Transmission matrix
Traffic light logic
| control zone | Wind sector | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A | B | C | D | E | F | |
| Zone 01 | 0,42 | 0,56 | 0,71 | 0,83 | 0,65 | 0,48 |
| Zone 02 | 0,51 | 0,47 | 0,62 | 0,75 | 0,69 | 0,53 |
| Zone 03 | 0,68 | 0,64 | 0,52 | 0,41 | 0,46 | 0,59 |
| Zone 04 | 0,79 | 0,88 | 0,74 | 0,57 | 0,43 | 0,61 |
| Zone 05 | 0,45 | 0,58 | 0,81 | 0,92 | 0,76 | 0,54 |
uncritical borderline critical
Project process
Five steps from the design question to handover
The process integrates facade planning, BMS and operations at an early stage. The model scope, load cases and output format depend on the specific decision that needs to be made in the project.
Guiding principle
As detailed as necessary, as simple as possible - so that the control remains robust and is understood during operation.
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01
Clarify planning issues and system boundaries
We coordinate types of blinds, planned sensors, possible control groups as well as protection and operational goals with the specialist planners involved.
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02
Build an aerodynamic model
A purpose-built 3D model is created from the planning data. The structures, facade offsets and shielding relevant to the wind effect are taken into account.
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03
Investigate relevant windfalls
Selected flow directions and load case classes are consistently simulated. The facade effect is recorded in defined evaluation areas.
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04
Create robust control zones
Façade sections that react in a similar way are grouped together. We pay attention to stable patterns across multiple load cases and practically controllable zoning.
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05
Derive and coordinate BMS matrix
Wind information, facade zone and intended operating status are clearly linked, checked for plausibility and transferred as a documented interface.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
When does differentiated blind control make sense?
When facade areas are subjected to different loads due to geometry and wind direction and a blanket control unnecessarily restricts availability or quality of use.
Which documents are required?
Typically a 3D model or planning documents, facade and blind data, the planned sensor and control concept as well as the specific planning question.
Can the matrix be used directly in the BMS?
The output format is coordinated with the specialist planning. The matrix can serve as a clear basis for functional description, programming and commissioning.
Next step
Request a project consultation
Are you planning wind-responsive facade control?
We will clarify with you which simulation depth and which output format makes sense for your project.