Global Research Society Publisher

Integrated Digital Modeling for Energy and Acoustic Comfort in Urban Housing


Sr No: 5
Page No: 28-37
Language: English
Licence: CC BY-NC 4.0
Authors: Armin Rasoulzadeh Baghmisheh* & Morteza Maleki
Published Date: 2025-10-09
Abstract:
Urban housing faces significant challenges related to energy efficiency and acoustic comfort, both of which are crucial for residents’ well-being and sustainability goals. Integrated digital modeling frameworks present new opportunities to holistically address these concerns through advanced simulations and multidisciplinary design approaches. Integrated digital modeling allows for the optimization of design strategies that mitigate energy consumption and improve acoustic conditions, crucial for residents' well-being in densely populated areas. By leveraging real-time data and advanced analytics, these technologies enable proactive management of building systems, ultimately leading to significant energy savings and improved quality of life for occupants. However, the transition to integrated digital modeling also presents challenges. Issues such as interoperability between various digital tools, data security concerns, and the complexity of implementation may hinder widespread adoption. Furthermore, while some studies indicate the promise of improved energy efficiency and acoustic comfort through these models, others suggest a lack of substantial quantitative evidence regarding their effectiveness, highlighting the need for ongoing research and methodological refinement in this field. This case study, adapted from a simulation experiment in Tehran, uses energy Plus to model a representative urban residential unit. It quantifies the interplay between acoustic comfort (measured via noise thresholds) and energy performance (via passive ventilation). The objective is to assess potential energy savings and identify design interventions, such as noise barriers or advanced glazing, to enhance both domains. Drawing on a simulation-based analysis in Tehran, Iran, the study demonstrates how noise levels influence occupant behavior (e.g., window opening for ventilation) and, consequently, energy consumption. Key findings reveal that passive ventilation can reduce energy use by 2-13%, but acoustic constraints limit savings to 1-9%, highlighting the need for holistic digital models that couple energy and acoustic parameters. This approach offers actionable insights for urban planners and architects to design resilient residential buildings (Naghibi Iravani, et al., 2024). Rapid urbanization exacerbates energy demands in residential buildings while amplifying noise exposure from traffic and industrial activities. In dense cities like Tehran, where over 50% of housing stock was built before 1980, integrating energy-efficient designs with acoustic mitigation is critical for occupant well-being and net-zero goals. Digital modeling tools enable predictive simulations that balance these factors, allowing for scenario testing without physical prototypes.
Keywords: integrated digital modeling, energy simulation, acoustic comfort, urban housing

Journal: GRS Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Studies
ISSN(Online): 3049-0561
Publisher: GRS Publisher
Frequency: Monthly
Language: English

Integrated Digital Modeling for Energy and Acoustic Comfort in Urban Housing