Optimization of Urban Thermal Conditions Using ENVI-met and Taguchi Method: A Case Study of Manhattan

Urban Heat Island (UHI) is a critical consequence of rapid urbanization, intensifying thermal discomfort and environmental stress in dense metropolitan areas. This study evaluates the combined effects of green space fraction (GSF), urban geometry (height-to-width ratio, H/W), and roof albedo (AR) on microclimatic conditions in a high-density district of Manhattan, New York. Using ENVI-met simulations across hot and cold seasonal days, the thermal behavior of various urban design scenarios was analyzed. Temperature reduction (ΔT) is defined as the difference in ۲-m air temperature between each scenario and the baseline condition, averaged across receptor points. Results show that increased vegetation and high-albedo roofing materials reduce ambient temperatures, particularly during summer, while modifications to urban geometry significantly influence shading, wind flow, and thermal comfort throughout the year. A linear predictive model was developed using the Taguchi experimental design method to quantify the individual and combined effects of the studied variables. Sensitivity analysis confirmed the height-to-width ratio as the most influential parameter. The optimized configuration (GSF = ۲۸%, AR = ۰.۵, and H/W = ۲) demonstrates the highest potential for mitigating UHI. The findings support climate-responsive urban planning by integrating simulation and statistical modeling for more effective thermal management in cities.

کلیدواژه ها:

Urban heat island ، Vegetation ، Roof Coating ، Experimental design ، Linear model