Multi-objective optimization of thermal and daylighting performance for sightseeing elevators without air conditioning system considering economic cost

In the study, the shape, size and structure of the sightseeing elevators were investigated, and a prototypical model was established by Grasshopper. Furthermore, the performance and prices of glass were used to construct the function of price, then the multi-objective optimization method was adopted to simultaneously optimize the predicted percentage of people dissatisfied, useful daylight illuminance and cost of the building envelope of the elevators. The results showed that the optimal values of the total heat transfer coefficient, solar energy heat gain coefficient and total transmission of the envelope are 0.799 W/(m2·K), 0.164 and 0.153, respectively. Compared with that of “6 mm ultralow light transmission thermal reflective glass +12 mm air +6 mm transparent glass”, the predicted percentage of people dissatisfied decreases about 5.412 %. Though useful daylight illuminance has a small decrease of 1.167 %, cost of building envelope decreases by 60.127 %. In addition, the suitable working hours for three positions, where the control cabinets can be set at, have been significantly improved among the using frequency. In addition, ventilation systems were considered to improve the internal environment of sightseeing elevators, and appropriate control methods were selected to ensure the maximum operation of sightseeing elevators.