Optimization Design of Three-Layer Glass Thickness Based on the Ant Colony Algorithm

Abstract

In this paper, the three-layer glass system is taken as the research object, and its optical transmission performance is optimized to enhance the energy-saving effect. Based on the theory of thin-film interference, an optical transmission model that accurately describes the propagation of light in multi-layer media is established to evaluate the spectral transmittance under different thickness combinations. To solve the problem efficiently, an improved ant colony algorithm is introduced. This algorithm simulates the optimization behavior of ants foraging and is characterized by strong global search capability and good robustness, making it suitable for such multi-dimensional, nonlinear combinatorial optimization problems. The optimization objective is to maximize the total solar radiation transmission energy of the glass system within the main solar radiation band of 300-2000 nm, which covers the visible and near-infrared energy crucial for building lighting and passive heat gain. Through iterative optimization of the algorithm, an optimal set of glass thickness configurations is finally obtained: 4.2 mm, 5.7 mm, and 3.9 mm. This solution can make the most effective use of incident solar radiation while ensuring structural safety and process feasibility. The optimization process converges around the 60th generation, demonstrating the algorithm's good efficiency and stability. By integrating optical models and intelligent algorithms, this study provides a scientific and efficient methodology for the design of photothermal performance and energysaving potential of building envelopes.