Open Access
Article

Hidden Impacts of Elevator Addition on Community Microclimate: A Simulation-Based Case Study

Ding Ding1, *
Meng Xian1
Hao Wang2
Author Information
Submitted: 14 Apr 2025 | Revised: 28 Apr 2025 | Accepted: 16 Jun 2025 | Published: 24 Jun 2025

Abstract

Urban microclimate plays a critical role in sustainable aging-friendly community design, yet the impacts of small-scale morphological modifications like elevator additions remain underexplored. This study innovatively integrates multi-domain simulation approaches to address this gap, employing GBSware’s coupled modules (TERA for thermal environment, SUN for solar irradiation, VENT for wind field analysis, and SEDU for acoustic modeling) to holistically assess the hidden effects of elevator retrofitting in high-density residential areas. Simulations reveal that elevator additions reduce urban heat island intensity by 0.38–0.67 °C through enhanced shading effects, while demonstrating minimal impacts on wind ventilation patterns. However, the intervention decreases facade solar irradiation by 10%–20% on affected elevations and elevates A-weighted sound pressure levels by 10–25 dB during operation. These findings provide new insights into the paradoxical microclimate impacts of vertical transportation infrastructure in aging communities, advancing the methodology for evaluating small-scale urban form modifications.

References

Share this article:
Graphical Abstract
How to Cite
Ding, D., Xian, M., & Wang, H. (2025). Hidden Impacts of Elevator Addition on Community Microclimate: A Simulation-Based Case Study. Urban and Building Science, 1(1), 2. https://www.sciltp.com/journals/ubs/articles/2506000801
RIS
BibTex
Copyright & License
article copyright Image
Copyright (c) 2025 by the authors.
scilight logo

About Scilight

Contact Us

Suite 4002 Level 4, 447 Collins Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
General Inquiries: info@sciltp.com
© 2025 Scilight Press Pty Ltd All rights reserved.