Computational analysis of thermal comfort: the case of the archaeological museum of Athens

The paper presents a mathematical model, implemented in a general computer code, that can provide detailed information on velocity and temperature pre vailing in three-dimensional buildings of any geometrical complexity, for g iven external meterological conditions. The model involves the partial diff erential equations governing flow and heat transfer, in large enclosures, c ontaining heat sources. Turbulent flow is simulated and buoyancy effects ar e taken into account. The model allows for such practical aspects of the pr oblems under consideration as blockages, internal heat loads, external weat her conditions, the presence of people, etc. The model is used to assess th e environmental conditions inside the main Hall of the National Archaeologi cal Museum of Athens (Myceane Hall) with external conditions corresponding to Ministry of Environment, summer and winter days. (C) 2000 Elsevier Scien ce Inc. All rights reserved.