Development of a composite model for predicting urban surface temperature distribution in the context of GIS

Abstract

Abstract In this paper, we present a new model for simulating radiation heat transfer and surface temperatures in urban environments, which is a prerequisite for simulating outdoor mean radiant temperature for pedestrians. We propose a new model whose novelty lies in a new algorithm for simulating diffuse radiation by combining the Nusselt unit sphere method and Monte Carlo ray tracing algorithm. This combined use of different methods is automatically activated depending on the complexity of the scene and, in particular, the arrangement of the facets facing each other. The model is implemented in a Python-based tool, t4gpd, which combines the capabilities of geographic information science and related technologies (GIS &T) with efficient ray-casting solutions. The model is tested on a theoretical mock-up of nine virtual buildings in Nantes under summer and winter weather conditions and compared with SOLENE-Microclimat results. The view factor and solar radiation flux simulation results agree well with the reference solution, with a significant reduction in simulation computation time. However, the model has limitations due to the exclusion of vegetation evapotranspiration characteristics, wind profile model, and soil with complete stratigraphy. Overall, this new model provides an efficient tool for simulating outdoor pedestrian thermal comfort in urban environments and has potential for further development and validation.