Global sensitivity analysis and multi-objective optimization for comprehensive performances of movable cultural and tourism pods with electrochromic windows

To address insufficient indoor lighting, poor thermal comfort, and high energy consumption in movable cultural and tourism pods (MCTP) due to their lightweight structure and high window-to-wall ratio, this study proposes using electrochromic windows (ECW) instead of conventional glazing. A multi-objective performance optimization was conducted under representative climatic conditions. A baseline MCTP model was developed based on surveys of spatial forms, functional layouts, and parameter ranges. Global sensitivity analysis (GSA) assessed the impact of 22 parameters on daylighting, energy consumption, thermal comfort, and carbon emissions, identifying 12 key parameters for further optimization through multi-objective optimization (MOO) and TOPSIS. Results show that toilet width mainly affects overall performance. ECW control strategies for west, south, and east facades greatly influence daylighting; meanwhile, window U -value is critical for energy use, thermal comfort, and greenhouse gas emissions. The TOPSIS method provided recommended key parameter values for hot summer-cold winter regions. Compared to the basic design, Pareto-optimal solutions achieved a 106%–228% growth in useful daylight illuminance, a 10%–18% decrease in energy use intensity, a 15%–19% decrease in predicted percentage dissatisfied, and up to a 43% reduction in life cycle assessment. This offers scientific guidance for enhancing MCTP performance in design decisions.