UCLA DAVID GEFFEN SCHOOL OF MEDICINE BAP 06 Circulation- Mechanical Anatomy | Los Angeles, CA | SOM Architects
THE PLANT The UCLA Geffen Medical Center is cooled by air handling units (AHU) with an off-site plant. The primary distribution method for thermal comfort is through air that is distributed through the pipes and shafts. The ventilation and thermal comfort is done through the use of natural ventilation with open circulation and floorplates. The AHUs are on top of the buildings and treat/moderate the temperature of the air. AHUs were located on top of the building to utilize the unused space and the need to have vertical exhausts through the roof. Locating ventilation from this point allows for space efficiency. The Central Plant boiler room is off-site in an underground trench connected to the hospital’s basement. The Central Plant chiller room is also connected to the mechanical rooms to serve the AHUs from the trench offsite. These active systems combined with natural ventilation help regulate thermal comfort within the medical center. AHU East Wing Major Shafts Pipes West Wing Major Shafts Return Air Distribution Supply Air Distribution Hot Water Room Chilled Water Room 11
