ARCHITECTURAL ASSOCIATION SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE
IT Labs | Refurbishing the City | London Building Studies
AA SED Msc + MArch Sustainable Environmental Design 2021-2022 Graduate School | Term 1 Project | January 2022
Ayushi Gupta | Ketan Naidu Kunapalli | Tanvi Patil | Deepthi Ravi
The team would like to acknowledge everyone who contributed to the completion and success of this project.
We would like to thank the Architectural Association administration and maintenance staff for their undoubted assistance in providing the necessary information required for the project which included the AA plans, HVAC plans among others.
In particular, we would like to thank the following IT department staff, Mattie Alex Bielecki and Sarana Mayilu who’s support added in conducting experiments in our given spaces that helped us achieve the data required for successful conclusions.
The team would also like to thank its tutor, Simos Yannas whose constant guidance and inputs throughout the term helped in the accomplishment of the project. The team was able to develop the project furthermore, thanks to the lectures and inputs by Paula Cadima, Nick Baker, Gustavo Brunelli, Byron Mardas, Mariam Kapsali, and Herman Calleja. In addition, Deepthi Ravi would like to acknowledge the Architectural Association School of Architecture for the AA Hardship Fund she was awarded to attend the AA SED Course 2021-2023
Finally, we would like to acknowledge the previous building case study projects that were provided to us as a reference, through which we got some insight with a better understanding and approach towards the project.
London Building Studies | IT Labs
14,776 words
Ayushi Gupta
Ketan Naidu Kunapalli
Tanvi Patil
Deepthi Ravi
DECLARATION
“I certify that the contents of this document are entirely my own work and that any quotation or paraphrase from the published or unpublished work of others is duly acknowledged.”
12 January 2022
As a part of term-1, Sustainable Environmental Design program 2021-22 from the Architectural Association school of architecture a detailed project study was conducted. This project aims to analyze the parameters involved in sustainable design and draw valuable conclusions, to improve the environmental performance of the considered spaces.
The case study that is analyzed in this project is a combination of two computer labs and an adjacent courtyard attached to it, which are a part of the Architectural Association. These spaces are unique from the rest of the AA rooms as they generate a significant amount of heat during most times of the year, which became our main focus of study. There were several analytical approaches done towards the project, them being, fieldwork analysis, computational analysis and finally drawing of conclusions.
The fieldwork analysis started with scheduled visits, several days of indoor and outdoor spot measurements, conducting several surveys and data logger measurements which helped us analyze the characteristics of these spaces and helped us move forward to computational simulations.
Through the above studies, several solutions, as design strategies were drawn and were supported with parametric tools, which in turn helped improve the indoor thermal performance of these spaces.
The report is structured in three main parts, the overview, outdoor studies, and indoor studies. There were four main elements namely courtyard, window, insulation, and solar control that each of the team members concentrated on and combined these technical studies, which lead to improving occupancy comfort, which was one of the primary concerns along with maintaining the indoor temperature for the appliances. Also keeping in mind, the security issue, that came with computer labs.
By the end of the report, the team was not only able to get an in-depth understanding of the space’s environmental behavior through detailed analyses but was also able to appreciate working as a team and exchanging ideas and skills. The lessons learned from this process could be used in future design projects and decisions.
Designed by Architect Thomas Leverton, the Bedford square is one of the greatest terraced houses, with stucco-faced parameter centers, of Georgian London. Built as an upper-middle-class residential area, between 1775 and 1783, it was known for having many distinguished residents like Lord Eldon and Lord Chancellors. Most of the land in what is now Bloomsbury, was owned by a Russel family, the dukes of Bedford, hence the name Bedford square.
The building agreements for Bedford Square were signed by the trustees of the late Duke of Bedford and William Scott and Robert Grews, the builders, in 1776. For the entire west side, the first leases were granted in November 1776. The leases were granted by the estate once the shells were built but with internal finishing still to be carried out.
The Architectural Association School of Architecture moved into Bedford Square, as an independent school of architecture in the UK, in 1917. As intact as Bedford square remains, it now houses a lot of institutions and offices. It is in Central London, Bloomsbury District in the Borough of Camden, bounded on the Northeast by Bedford Square and the Southwest by Morwell Street. The building is positioned near numerous prominent destinations like the British Museum, Seven Dials, Covent Garden, Oxford St shopping area, Cross rail station, and Holborn.
The weather data used for the following analysis was collected from St James Park London weather station, 1.7 km away from the architectural association (figure 2.2.1).
St James Park weather station:
Latitude - 51’5’’
Longitude - 0’177”
The graph in figure 2.2.2 shows averages of monthly dry bulb temperatures and solar radiation classified into direct, diffuse, and global radiation throughout a year. The adaptive thermal comfort band (EN 15251) plotted for each month ranges from 19 to 26 degrees Celsius
During the later half of the 17th and the early years of the 19th century, in the western district of London, several large estates were laid out. The squares were planned such that only the residents from the surrounding houses has access to the central garden.
20 acres of gardens were laid out as a part of the 112 acres of Bedford’s Bloomsbury estate. An good example of early town planning is evident in this estate with it's wide streets and spacious squares.
Bedford Square is about 520 feet long and 320 feet wide between the houses, and the oval and beautifully wooded garden measures 375 feet on the major and 255 feet on the minor axis. With an interesting architectural scheme, entire block of buildings is treated as separate sides with a central feature and wings.
Formally established in 1890, the AA school of architecture moved to its current location in Bedford square in the year 1917. Founded by Robert Kerr and Charles Gray the Architectural Association has since developed into one of the most important and influential architectural schools in the world.
Following are the functions of the respective buildings at the AA (figure 2.3.1.4)
Bedford Square
No. 32 AA Bookshop, Graduate Studio | No. 33 Membership Office, Graduate Studio | Nos. 34-36 AA Library, Admin, Offices, Cafe, Restaurant, Front Members Room, Undergrad Studios | No. 37 Photo Library, Cinema | No. 38 Exhibit Office, Exhibit Storage | No. 39 Computing Office
16 Morwell Street
No. 4 Intermediate Studios | No. 16 Graduate Studios, Computer Lab, Model Workshop
Within the premises of the Architectural Association, figure 2.3.2.1 shows the spaces of study which are the two computer labs for indoor analysis and the new yard for outdoor analysis, all of which are oriented on the southwest of the building, flanked by various mid-rise buildings.
Computer lab 01 which occupies an area of 125m2 is present on the ground floor of the 5-story building which is fairly a new construction. It opens out to Morwell street on the southwest and the new Yard on the northeast facade. It can host up to 40 occupants at one time.
Computer lab 02 occupies an area of 20m2 significantly smaller than that of the other lab and is present on the ground floor. It is independent with no floors above. It opens to a small courtyard and a large barren land on the northeast and southeast facade respectively. It can host up to 15 occupants at one time.
The new yard situated at the basement level is open to the sky and occupies an area of 128.50m2. It is adjacent to the model-making workshop and the wood and metal workshop and hence is used for large-scale installation active fieldwork etc.
The walls are constructed of brick with a thickness of 100mm for computer lab 01, while that of computer lab 02 is 200mm, due to the former being a fairly new constructed structure. The flooring of the labs is carpeted for insulation and glare. The courtyard has exposed flooring made of stone and is open to the sky, yet flanked by buildings of varying heights as its surroundings.
Finally, the 3 spaces have their uniqueness in terms of environmental studies due to their internal conditions such as HVAC in computer lab 01, an exposed roof in computer lab 02, and inadequate daylight scenario in the new yard. Additionally, the heat generated in the computer labs due to systems and yet the cool conditions within the space provide intriguing circumstances for the study.
Figure 2.3.3.1 depicts photographs of the spaces that we were analyzing. These images show how each space is unique from the other in terms of daylighting, spatial arrangement, the number of occupants it can hold, etc.
The new yard is a space that is open to various functions like putting together installations or experimenting with molds, basically any sort of activity that needs space and equipment, and laying out the raw materials.
Both the computer labs are generally used by students from all the programs of AA including the diploma and masters, as and when required. However, there is a good flow of occupancy throughout the year where students use the systems for what their particular program requires them to follow.
The analysis of the new yard will be carried out in this section. It is located on the basement level on 16 Morwell Street, London in the Architectural Association building premises. The new yard is open to the sky and is accessible on all days throughout the year except for days when the school is closed for vacations. It is majorly used for large-scale installations by the students of the Architectural Association.
In terms of the layout, the new yard is surrounded by the model-making workshop, wood and metal workshop, along with the Digital prototyping lab on the south-west, north-wwwwest, and north-east sides respectively at ground level. It is flanked by buildings with varying heights around it. It has an area of 128.50 m2.
The flooring is made of stone and the walls of the buildings surrounding it are made of brick. The wall on the northeast orientation of the space is painted white until the level of the first floor and further above is exposed brick. However, the rest of the walls are painted white throughout, this could be to improve the daylight reflectance, as the space is obstructed from direct light, for most parts of the year. Furthermore, the space is laid out with quite a few plants through the corners.
To get a better judgment on the environmental performance of the space, the team conducted an online survey. These surveys were answered by the staff of the model-making workshop, tutors as well as students who were found to use the new yard regularly. A total of 8 responses were received, of which the maximum number (83%) were students. When it comes to different opportunities for adaptive comfort, it is observed that a majority of students are well clothed, to improve their level of comfort. This was considered to be an important factor at the time of the survey, as the new yard is an open space, surrounded by buildings of varying heights which is the cause for wind turbulence and can be very cold at times.
In terms of thermal comfort, from figure 3.2.1 the survey shows a majority of 60% of occupants are feeling very cold. Additionally, when it comes to air quality, a majority of votes were towards a fresh and bright atmosphere. However, noise levels seem to vary as per the time at which the occupant was present in the new yard. Furthermore, half the respondents find the space bright, while the rest find it comparatively dark. Not having good daylight distribution and use of heavy machinery were some of the reasons for the above.
Some of the specific comments from the students, which said that the space was not bright enough and feels extremely cold, yet fresh showed clear signs of occupant discomfort and helped the team analyze the parameters that needed to be worked on, to improve the outdoor performance.
Spot measurements for temperature were taken for the courtyard which is adjacent to the model-making studio on 16 Morwell Street on October 26th, 2021, at 3 different times of the day, namely at 9:00 am, 2:00 pm, and 6:00 pm under clear, cloudy, and partly cloudy sky conditions. The results are depicted in Fig 3.3.1.1, Fig 3.3.1.2, and Fig 3.3.1.3. The main purpose of these measurements was to understand, analyze and compare the different micro-climates which are created by the surrounding built environment. The space is affected by the presence of buildings with varying heights and the heat generated from the wood, metal, and model-making workshops adjacent to it.
The day spot measurements were recorded, the courtyard was not under usage. The recorded air temperature fluctuated between 170C to 240C throughout the day at various spots due to the effects of external weather conditions.
To begin with, the temperature in the courtyard at 9.00 AM was registered at an average of 18.5°C. Similarly, the temperature recorded at 2.00 PM was an average of 21.5°C and the temperature recorded at 6.00 PM was in the range of 230C. It can also be observed that the temperature in spots closer to the metal workshop on the northwest facade is higher than that of the others, due to the effect of heat generated from the interior space.
The graph in Fig. 3.3.1.5 clearly shows that the temperature variation throughout the space in various spots lie in a range higher than that on the exterior of the Architectural Association building.
The graph in Fig. 3.3.1.4 clearly shows that the temperature variation between the New Yard, alongside the adjacent open spaces, the Bedford and Morwell Street. The temperature in the New Yard is higher than that of both Bedford and Morwell Street.
Apart from the temperature spot measurements, relative humidity measurements were also noted down at the same period (October 26th, 2021, at 9:00 am, 2:00 pm, and 6:00 pm). The results are depicted in Fig. 3.3.2.1, Fig. 3.3.2.2, and Fig 3.3.2.3.
The recorded relative humidity values fluctuated between 50% - 65% throughout the day at various spots due to the effect of the external weather conditions.
The higher values of the recorded humidity in the range from 60% - 63% are observed early during the day, however, the humidity levels lower with the passing day ranging between 55% -60%. This can be attributed to the that the increase in temperature results in a drop in humidity levels.
The graph in Fig. 3.3.2.5 clearly shows that the temperature variation throughout the space in various spots lies similar to that of the macro-climate range early during the day and gradually decreases as the day passes by.
The graph in Fig. 3.3.2.4 clearly shows that the relative humidity on Bedford square is higher than that of the New Yard, while that of Morwell Street is lower than the New Yard, due to the narrow street and taller buildings abutting it.
Taken in similar conditions as the previous analyses, the spot measurement for illuminance levels was also conducted and are illustrated in Fig. 3.3.3.1, Fig. 3.3.3.2, and Fig 3.3.3.3.
The illuminance levels varied from 1400 to 8700 lux, depending on the sun angle and the obstruction from the buildings. The highest measured values were at 9 AM, ranging between 5000 -7000 lux, eventually reducing to 1500 -2000 lux and further down between 70-150 lux.
The illuminance levels close to the walls near the DPL office are higher than that of the rest of the spots throughout the day, due to the sun angle. The wall paint color on the northeast facade also influences the recording of a higher value of illuminance than the rest of the areas as it disperses more light.
The graph in Fig. 3.3.3.5 clearly shows variation throughout the space in the spots at different times of the day.
The graph in Fig. 3.3.3.4 shows that the illuminance levels on Bedford square are higher than that of the New Yard and lower than that of Morwell Street, due to narrow streets and taller buildings abutting it.
A wind simulation was performed on the case study building and its surrounding environment via Autodesk CFD software (Computational Fluid Dynamics). The prevailing wind direction was set to South-West, based on the average annual wind direction, which is provided by St James Park Weather Station (Fig. 3.4.1). The wind rose diagram represents the prevailing winds from the South-west. From June to November, winds are mostly from the West and from December to May, South-West. The latter also has stronger winds, mostly between 10-15 km/h. The wind speed and direction were calculated at 1.5m from the floor level of the new yard, which can be considered as a generic mean height of reference for the space.
Running a CFD analysis on the site model, the flow vector (Figure 3.4.2 , Figure 3.4.3) shows how the wind is redirected from South-West to the South-East by obstructions on site due to their relatively large height. In general, the wind experienced outside the AA School is from the South-East (St. Gile’s Hotel) and goes towards North-West following the facade of the school buildings. This results in no direct exposure to the wind on the southwest facade of the building. Additionally, the simulation indicates that the average wind velocity that affects this facade is less than 1.0 m/s, which is a relatively small value. On the contrary, on the north and east facade of the building, the wind pattern reveals a comparatively higher wind speed. This is mainly caused by the existence of the Bedford square garden, with lots of trees, therefore generating turbulence. As for the airflow rate, the buildings facing Bedford Square experience around 1.5 to 2 m/s. However, the courtyards and Morwell Street have a very minimal air flow rate with just 0.5 m/s as seen in the section (Figure 3.4.4 and 3.4.5). This fact indicates that the thermal comfort of occupants can be maintained at a good level when the space is being used.
In conclusion, according to this analysis, the possibility of cross-ventilation through the opening of north and south façade windows can be done, as an adaptive strategy to avoid overheating in the dwellings during hot days in the summer period.
The AA School of Architecture is located in buildings orientated to the North-East and South-West. Spaces on the South West facade such as the Computer Lab look out into Morwell Street. The spaces on the Northeast façade look out into Bedford Square. This condition potentially creates overshadowing, particularly in lower levels of the building.
By using the Grasshopper (Ladybug) plug-in software in Rhino 3D, a solar analysis was performed for the New Yard. Based on the latitude and the Northeast and Southwest orientation of the space, it is the southwest facade that receives the biggest part of the solar radiation and daylight throughout the year. Based on the analysis from the stereographic chart of the sun path diagram (Fig. 3.5.1), the section shows solar access for three different times of the year in context with the surroundings. Through figure 3.5.2, it is evident that there is direct sunlight only during summer, and mostly diffused and reflected light during other times of the year.
To confirm this, an annual sunlight radiation analysis was performed, as depicted in Fig. 3.5.3 and Fig 3.5.4. Radiation analysis of the new yard shows that more than 50% of the space, during the months from March to September does not receive direct solar radiation and during the months from September to March, there is no direct solar radiation at all. The obstructions from the taller buildings cause this situation. However, to increase the reflectivity of the diffused radiation, the walls surrounding the space being painted white, play a major role. Similarly, the annual overshadowing analysis depicted in Fig. 3.5.5 clearly shows that less than 10% of the year is exposed to direct sunlight.
Shadow mask analysis of the new yard as depicted in figure 3.6.1 shows the visibility of the sky, obstructed by the surrounding buildings.
Computational analysis of the new yard as depicted in figure 3.6.2 and observations show that the space does not receive adequate direct sunlight and is mostly shaded throughout the year. It also provides additional proof that the space receives adequate sunlight only at noon during the months of summer.
By using the Grasshopper (Ladybug) plug-in software in Rhino 3D, a comfort analysis was performed for the New Yard for three different times of the year and it was observed that the occupants would experience heat stress during summer and would be cold during the winter and spring durations. It is evident from figure 3.7.1 that the occupants would not be in their comfort zone due to the climatic conditions and surrounding obstructions. The annual UTCI graph, however, depicts comfort hours majorly in the month from May to October and at a few times of the day during other months of the year. This can be observed in figure 3.7.2
It was observed that during winters, the space is not suitable for working conditions while during summers it is found that outdoor temperature is acceptable. As a part of technical studies, retractable glazed roofing was introduced. This system is designed in a way where it is kept open during the summer, while closed during winters to retain the heat generated by adjacent spaces as well as store solar heat gains, to improve the microclimate of the open space.
This roof system, restrained by adjacent buildings and window openings, was introduced at level 0, with a floor to height ratio of 1:0.33, considering two different types of glazing to improve the thermal condition of the space, namely double low-E argon glass with a U-value of 2.08 W/K and the other being triple Low-E Argon glass with a U-value of 1.5 W/K (Fig 3.8.1).
Thermal studies for the New yard are discussed in this section. Table 3.9.1 indicates the parameters considered for the simulations carried out. Figure 3.9.3 shows dry bulb temperatures with the roof installed, for a typical winter week, with level 0 and level 1 as their respective heights along with the existing condition case. The graph clearly shows that the roof system at level 0 which retains more heat and reduces heat loss. This outdoor condition enables occupants to be comfortable. with the roof at level 1, there is less heat gain compared to the volume of the space. However, the glazing properties used in this case help retain the heat that is generated by occupants and appliances used by the adjacent spaces like the model workshop, etc. This design strategy is more suitable for bigger installations as the height does not restrict the various functions.
Figure 3.9.2 shows comfort hours for the proposed cases, with a UTCI comfort band ranging from 90C to 260C.
The analysis of computer lab 01 will be carried out in this section. It is located on the ground floor of 16 Morwell Street, London in the Architectural Association building premises. The computer lab is operational on all days throughout the year except for days when the school is closed for vacations.
In terms of the layout (Figure 4.1.1), the computer lab is accessed through the entrance of 16 Morwell Street and has an area of 125.20 m2 with a height of 2.5m. It has a central aisle with computer work-stations on either side and room for storage and staff on the north-east side.
The room has fixed windows on the southwest facade facing Morwell Street, adhering to the concerns of privacy and safety, and pivot windows on the northeast facade facing the New Yard which is non-openable due to obstruction of blinds (Figure 4.1.2, Figure 4.1.3) . All windows are single-glazed and have Venetian roller-blinds on both sides.
The flooring has black carpet and the workstations are of a blue matt finish, which prevents glare. The walls and ceiling are white which gives a feeling of a larger space as understood from occupant interviews.
The lab consists of 37 computers and 3 printers. Though the space has varying occupancy patterns, the computers are never turned off throughout the week. Hence, constant heat is generated. To maintain the efficiency of the systems, the thermostat is set at 22oC at most times during the year.
Furthermore, the area is well equipped with ceiling-mounted compact fluorescent lights, and suspended square LED lights which are in use throughout the operational hours, as there is inadequate natural light for the space.
Finally, the space is ventilated with a centralized HVAC duct system mounted to the ceiling by the central aisle. The thermostat is controlled by laboratory and building maintenance staff.
HVAC | CENTRAL SYSTEM THROUGH FAN COIL UNITS
THERMOSTAT SET TO 22°C 1 - 37 OCCUPANTS
DIMENSIONS | 10.4 X 10.7 M
AREA | 125. 20 SQ.M
VOLUME | 343.53 CU.M
WALL-WINDOW RATIO
SOUTH-WEST | 52%
NORTH EAST | 36%
WINDOW-FLOOR RATIO | 10%
ORIENTATION | NE - SW
COMPUTERS | 37
PRINTERS | 3
BLINDS | ROLLER BLINDS
SOUTH-WEST FIXED WINDOW (5)
2.0 X 1.8M
NORTH-EAST PIVOT WINDOW (6)
1.4 X 1.8M
To get a better judgment on the thermal performance of the spaces, the team conducted an online survey. These surveys were answered by the staff of the computer lab, tutors as well as students who were found to use the lab regularly.
A total of 25 responses were received, of which the maximum number (83%) were students. When it comes to different opportunities for adaptive comfort, it is observed that a majority of students are well clothed, to improve their level of comfort. This was considered to be an important factor at the time of the survey, as the computer lab 01 is mechanically controlled and set to a temperature range of 18 to 22 degrees.
In terms of thermal comfort, from figure 4.2.1 the survey shows a majority of 55% of occupants are within the comfort limit. However, when it comes to noise levels, air quality, and visual comfort a majority of votes were towards a certain level of discomfort. Not having the necessary adaptive opportunities, like being able to control the operability of windows, was considered to be the main reason for the above
Temperature spot measurements were taken of the computer lab-1 on October 26th, 2021, at 3 different times of the day, namely at 9:00 am, 2:00 pm, and 6:00 pm under clear, cloudy, and partly cloudy sky conditions by 16 Morwell street. The sunset by 6:30 pm. The results are depicted in Fig.4.3.1.1, Fig. 4.3.1.2 and Fig 4.3.1.3 The shown temperature ranges between 220C to 250C throughout the day at various spots due to the space being mechanically controlled by a central HVAC system.
According to the IT lab staff, the thermostat is set to a temperature of 220C throughout the day. The rise in temperature above this set value is due to heat generated from the computers and occupants in the space.
To begin with, the temperature in the computer lab with 5 occupants at 9.00 AM was registered at an average of 22.5°C, while the outdoor temperature which was registered on Morwell Street adjacent to the lab was 13°C. Thus, an 9K difference can be identified between the outdoor temperature and that of the computer lab. Similarly, the temperature recorded at 2.00 PM with 9 occupants provided similar results with the indoor temperature being an average of 22.5°C though the outdoor temperature was 18°C on Morwell Street. The fact that the thermostat’s set temperature controls the space, affected the recorded indoor value.
On the other hand, the temperatures recorded at 6.00 PM were in the range of 240C while the outdoor temperature was 160C. This was due to an increase in the number of occupants to 10 and the use of appliances generating heat and warming up the air.
The graph in Fig 4.3.1.4 clearly shows that the temperature variation throughout the space in various spots lie in the comfort range for an occupant in the computer lab.
Apart from the temperature, spot measurements for relative humidity were also noted down at the same period (October 26th, 2021, at 9:00 am, 2:00 pm, and 6:00 pm). The results are depicted in Fig. 4.3.2.1, Fig. 4.3.2.2, and Fig 4.3.2.3. show recorded relative humidity levels ranging from a minimum of 42% to a maximum of 56% throughout the day at various spots in the computer lab, while the outdoor humidity level was around 62%
The higher values of the recorded humidity ranging from 53%-57% are during mid-day. However, the humidity level decreases to about 44% by evening. This can be attributed that the increase in temperature due to systems and occupants’ resulting in a drop in humidity levels.
The graph in Fig. 4.3.2.4 clearly shows that the relative humidity variation throughout the space in various spots is lower than that of the outdoor atmosphere.
Similar to the previous analyses, the spot measurement for illuminance levels was conducted and are illustrated in Fig. 4.3.3.1 and Fig. 4.3.3.2 with and without artificial lighting in the space at 9 am.
At first, the illuminance level of the adjacent outdoor spaces, the New Yard and the Morwell street with a lux of 6225 and 8042 were registered respectively, which was the highest measured value of all. The illuminance level was then measured at the same time with and without artificial lighting in the room. The readings near the windows facing Morwell street was ranging from 20-60 lux, while the values of that near the window facing the new yard ranged between 40-68 lux when the lights were switched off. However, with the use of artificial lights, the illuminance levels ranged from 150 -250 lux and 270 -470 lux on the sides with windows facing Morwell Street and the new Yard respectively. The side of the new yard compared to the other spaces of the computed lab showed higher illuminance values, due to its sizeable south-west facing windows.
According to the measurements, the illuminance levels varied from 150-400 lux and 2-10 lux, with and without the usage of artificial lights respectively, in the central aisle. As already predicted in the previous analysis, the aisle presents a general lack of daylight and receives a negligible amount of daylight into the space. Lastly, it can be observed that there is a need for artificial lights to reach the range of comfort illuminance levels without which there are negligible daylight conditions in the space. However, various solutions may also be proposed to receive adequate daylight. It can be concluded that in general, the recorded measurements corroborate the findings which were predicted in the solar and shadow analyses.
The graph in Fig. 4.3.3.4 clearly shows that there is a significant variation in the illuminance levels with and without artificial lights.
Daylight Factor
South-West Facade (Morwell Street)
Average Indoor Temperature 14.3
Average Outdoor Temperature 1826.8
Threshold Level
Recommended illuminance level 300
Daylight Factor 0.0078
Daylight Factor
North-East Facade (New Yard)
Average Indoor Temperature 14.3
Average Outdoor Temperature 1439.75
Threshold Level
Recommended illuminance level 300
Daylight Factor 0.0099
Before moving on to computational analysis, the team decided to conduct a theoretical study with regard to daylight availability. To carry out this experiment, the team conducted an on-site experiment of measuring the illuminance at three different spots, them being, the computer lab, the new yard, and the 16 Morwell Street at the same time (figure 4.4.1.3). This series of 8 recordings were done at an interval of 2 minutes for a span of 15 minutes. Figure 4.4.1.1 and figure 4.4.1.2 indicate the variation in lux levels and daylight factors respectively.
After averaging these values, a threshold level was calculated which showed that the computer lab receives about 9% to 20% of sufficient daylight for the northeast and southwest façade respectively, of the entire working year as seen in figure 4.4.1.4.
To study the illuminance required for our computer lab, a series of computational analyses were carried out using parametric tools. Summer and winter solstice along with equinox were the three different times of the year, that were considered as our period of analysis.
Figure 4.4.2.1 clearly shows the inadequacy in daylight distribution for most parts of the year, the lowest being in December, with a certain increase in lux levels during summer. Due to less amount of natural daylight, it was concluded that certain usage of artificial lighting needed to be used, keeping in mind the function of the space.
Digital simulations were further done to compare the results with theoretical calculations and to understand the daylight availability of the space.
Figure 4.4.3.1 shows results from these simulations, which indicate a negligible percentage of daylight that is received throughout the year.
Similarly, figure 4.4.3.2 shows results for daylight autonomy, which further indicates that only 15% of daylight, throughout the year, receives a minimum of 300 lux.
These diagrams, helped us come to certain conclusions, one of which was that the need for artificial lighting was inevitable, taking into account the lack of natural light due to the obstructions, surrounding the space and certain specific requirements for work mode systems in terms of light.
The same simulation tools helped us get image-based analysis for the computer lab. Figure 4.4.4.1 shows fisheye images with contour lines and fluorescent images, in candela per square meter. These images also indicate the inadequacy of daylight distribution throughout the interior of the space.
Through these studies the team was able to get a better understanding of the parameters that needed to be looked into. Solar control being one of them, however taking into consideration the space and its funtion, it is also important to note that the use of artificial light was inevitable, in order avoid glare and create discomfort for the occupants.
The data loggers were placed in the computer lab for indoor temperature data measurement and in the new yard, AA terrace, Bedford Square, and Morwell Street for the collection of outdoor data measurement (Fig 4.5.1- 4.5.4).
Due to the space being controlled by a central HVAC system, the conditions at which the measurements were taken were constant unless manually altered. During the logging period, the temperature was set to 22°C on the first 3 days (1/12- 3/12) and was altered to 18°C on 3/12. For the weekend (4/12- 5/12) the temperature was then set back at 23°C by the staff and then remained constant.
Based on gathered and evaluated data from the data-loggers, which are depicted in Figure 4.5.5 and the interview we had with the occupant, the following conclusions were drawn:
- The occupancy pattern in the working hours of the school varied between 5-15 occupants over the day during weekdays and a maximum of 6 occupants on the weekends. The windows on the northeast and the southwest sides of the space remain closed throughout the year. Due to the presence of a mechanical ventilation system, there is little influence from the occupants and external environmental conditions.
-The outdoor conditions differed each day, with a lot of alternations between cloudy, partly cloudy, and rainy weather. The outdoor temperature difference on the same day was 15 K (3/12). The maximum measured outdoor temperature was 11°C (03/12 at 19:00) and the minimum was 2°C (2/12 at 9:00).
-In general, it can be observed that there is a negligible variation in the temperature between outdoor spaces within the AA building premises and the ones outside.
Additionally, spot measurements were taken on 06/12 at 9:00, 12:00, and 16:00 and it was observed that there was a similarity in the datalogger measurements and the spot measurements.
Moving on to the soft computations, three cases of the current scenario along with summer, winter weeks, and a solution case for summer were considered to predict the indoor temperatures.
For the first three cases, from figure 4.6.1 certain parameters were taken into account with the help of standards (CIBSE) and on-site measurements and calculations. These simulations were carried out for a day in November with an outdoor temperature of 150C. As observed in the graph, there is a significant increase in the indoor temperature as the number of occupants increase which in turn increases the heat gains due to appliance loads.
Similarly in the summer condition case, an outdoor temperature of 230C with a maximum of 37 occupants was considered, which showed a predicted indoor temperature of 35.10C, resulting in a rise of 120C above the outdoors. This resulted in an environmental condition where the occupants would experience extreme discomfort and the space would not be suitable for work. Hence as a solution for this, additional ventilation of 15 ac/h was provided along with changing the glazing properties and it was observed that there was a significant drop in temperature to 27.50C which is well within the comfort band.
Under winter conditions it is observed that due to a drop in temperature outside (80C), the predicted mean indoor temperature is well within the comfort limit. This case is done by considering maximum occupants with maximum systems on working mode.
Figure 4.6.2 emphasizes that the major reason for the rise in the indoor temperature is due to the appliances as compared to the solar gains. This varies with varying occupants. The temperature rise can be controlled by finding design solutions that help in increasing heat loss and thus improving the thermal performance of the computer lab.
It can also be observed that the rise in temperatures above outdoor for cases with maximum occupants is similar irrespective of the outdoor temperatures, however, there is a significant drop as soon as additional ventilation is provided.
Use of Double Low-e argon glass, which helps in reducing external heat gains during summer and internal heat loss during winters (Figure 4.7.5). This also helps in increasing daylight in the space. The thin, transparent hard pyrolytic Low-E coating allows 67% of the solar heat gain to be transmitted and 78% visible transmittance into the space, aiming at comparatively higher daylight to enter the computer lab.
The use of natural ventilation and ventilative cooling is the potential for low operational energy use associated with low CO2 emissions and operational costs (Figure 4.7.1) (Dejan
Mumovicet al, 2013)
Positioning of adjustable sashes to direct the wind flow. Due to the issue of security for windows towards Morwell Street, louvered windows at the top and bottom are the most optimum solution, still having a high ventilation capacity along with fixed windows in between, not obstructing visual comfort (Figure 4.7.2). In addition to this, the use of night shutters was introduced during winters, which would help retain the heat generated through the systems and balance the heat losses to gains during operational hours (Figure 4.7.4)
We further proposed operable sliding windows, facing towards the courtyard by eliminating security as an issue and can be controlled as and when needed by the occupants (Figure 4.7.3). However, it is important to note that louvered windows do have a less satisfactory seal and increased ventilation loss in winter (Dejan Mumovic et al, 2013).
Solar control strategies are adaptive for effective light distribution and glare prevention. Adaptability becomes a key issue when real-time control is needed to modulate between maximal and minimal exposure to the outside. The addition of louvers in the fenestration, allowing the room to run on a free-running mode, also allows reflection of incident daylight as the material of the louvers are acrylic and can be manually operated to optimize maximum daylight.
To achieve indoor comfort with energy efficiency, understanding the thermal performance of the space is very important, hence the team came up with several thermal simulations to understand how these spaces behave throughout the year, with the comfort band ranging from 19°C to 25°C. These simulations will be discussed in detail in the following section.
A 3D model was created using Rhinoceros, energy+, and open studio softwares. The specifications were derived from the data received from the architectural association archives. Table 4.8.1 shows the summary of the parameters used for this case. Here it was observed that there was a set temperature (HVAC) ranging from 18°C to 24°C. These conditions were applied throughout the year. It is important to note that the results obtained from the simulations will have slight variations, due to the varying parameters considered.
A comparison was made of onsite measurements and simulations carried out, for an operational period ranging from 1st December to 7th December in this case. Figure 4.8.2 indicates the graph where simulations are plotted against measured data. The two graphs were found to have a similar pattern in the temperature range.
the base case scenario in this section shows annual indoor temperatures along with annual heating and cooling loads. The simulations, in this case, consider the internal floors as adiabatic surfaces, hence an assumption is made that there are no heat gains and loosed from adjacent surfaces. This can be seen as a limitation, as the results can be affected by heat exchange through adjacent surfaces. Table 4.9.1.3 shows the considered parameters used to run simulations.
The seasonal schedule pattern used in the simulations is 10th January to 25th March and 25th April to 18th of December as an operational period with the rest being considered as a vacation.
A set temperature (HVAC) ranging from 22°C to 24°C throughout the day was considered as the base case along with simulations for free running with varying occupancy patterns. It is noted that there is no fixed schedule for several occupants. Hence a minimum of 3 and a maximum of 37 occupants have been considered throughout the cases, with a floor area of 125m2
Appliance load of 100 W per system as 60% working efficiency is considered, along with varying occupancy patterns. Lighting loads were assumed to be 8.5 W/m2, considering the base case scenario.
Figure 4.9.1.4 shows the annual graph for the base case and a free-running case with maximum and minimum occupancy. It was observed that the heat generated by the systems was one of the major reasons for heat gains, hence for most of the period, the free-running case is ranging away from the comfort zone. As a result, mechanical ventilation (HVAC) was used to achieve the required temperature range.
Figure 4.9.1.1 shows the annual heating and cooling demand with a significant energy consumption of 221 W/m2 and 35W/m2 respectively. These energy consumptions are relatively high. Annual heat gains and losses, from different parameters for the base case, can be seen in figure 4.9.1.2.
100 W per System
The thermal performance for the base case, over a typical summer week, is seen in this section. As seen in figure 4.9.2.1, the period chosen for this week dates from 6 July to 12 July, where the outdoor temperature is ranging between 12°C to 21°C. The daily global horizontal solar radiation is seen to reach a maximum of 850 Watts. The indoor thermal comfort band is between 22°C to 27°C for the entire month. It is important to note that the operational hours are considered from Monday to Saturday, with Sunday being non-operational.
According to the simulation results it can be seen that, for free-running mode, with maximum occupancy, the temperature ranges from 27°C (minimum) to 43°C (maximum). However, the simulations with minimum occupancy show a temperature variation from 22°C (minimum) to 36°C (maximum). This indicates that the temperature ranges are not in the comfort zone during operational hours.
The HVAC base case result is hence achieved within the comfort band, with a cooling load of 2.03W/m2 for the considered summer week. Annual heat gains and losses, from different parameters for this case, can be seen in figure 4.9.2.2.
The thermal performance for the base case, over a typical winter week, is seen in this section. As seen in figure 4.9.3.1, the period chosen for this week dates from 30 November to 6 December, where the outdoor temperature is ranging from 2°C to 13°C. The daily global horizontal solar radiation is seen to reach a maximum of 200 Watts. The indoor thermal comfort band is between 19°C to 25°C for the entire month. It is important to note that the operational hours are considered from Monday to Saturday, with Sunday being non-operational.
According to the simulation results it can be seen that, for free-running mode, with maximum occupancy, the temperature ranges from 7°C (minimum) to 22°C (maximum). However, the simulations for minimum occupancy show a temperature variation from 9°C (minimum) to 20°C (maximum). This indicates that the temperature ranges are below the comfort zone during operational hours.
The HVAC base case result is hence achieved within the comfort band, with a heating load of 6.86W/m2 for the considered winter week. Annual heat gains and losses, from different parameters for this case, can be seen in figure 4.9.3.2.
The thermal performance for the base case summer along with mixed-mode is seen in figure 4.9.4.1. It is important to note that usage of HVAC is considered for operational hours and natural ventilation is considered for non-operational hours, considering this scenario as the mixed-mode case.
According to the simulation results it can be seen that there is a significant overlap of the existing HVAC case with the mixed-mode case. The temperature for HVAC in the mixed-mode case is set to a range from 22°C to 24°C, which is giving a cooling load of 0.60W/m2. It can be seen from the graph that there is a slight shift in the peaks, which are still outside the comfort zone.
A comparison of the annual cooling demand, for the base case and mixed-mode case, can be seen in figure 4.9.4.3, which shows a drastic drop of 88.50% in energy consumption. Annual heat gains and losses, from different parameters for this case, can be seen in figure 4.9.4.2.
The thermal performance for the base case summer along with mixed-mode is seen in figure 4.9.5.1. It is important to note that usage of HVAC is considered for operational hours along with the use of natural ventilation as and when required by the temperature limit, considering this scenario as the mixed-mode case, along with introducing change in glazing properties for improving insulation.
According to the simulation results it can be seen that there is a significant overlap of the existing HVAC case with the mixed-mode case. Double Low-e argon glass, as additional insulation which helps in reducing external heat gains during summer, with a U-value of 2.08 W/K is used. The temperature for HVAC in the mixed-mode case is set to a range from 22°C to 24°C, which is giving a cooling load of 0.25W/m2. It can be seen from the graph that the slight shift from the previous case, is resolved in this one by achieving the temperature variations within the comfort zone.
A comparison of the annual cooling demand, for the base case and mixed-mode case, can be seen in figure 4.9.5.3, which shows a drastic drop of 88.50% energy consumption, which is further improved by the mixed-mode case to 89.50%. Annual heat gains and losses, from different parameters for this case, can be seen in figure 4.9.5.2.
The thermal performance for the base case winter along with mixed-mode is seen in figure 4.9.6.1. It is important to note that usage of HVAC is considered for operational hours and natural ventilation is considered for non-operational hours, taking this scenario as the mixed-mode case.
According to the simulation results it can be seen that the temperature variations in the operational hours are within the comfort band, for the mixed-mode case. The temperature for HVAC in the mixed-mode case is set to 20°C, which is giving a heating load of 2.14W/m2.
A comparison of the annual heating demand, for the base case and mixedmode case, can be seen in figure 4.9.6.3, which shows a drop of 20% in energy consumption. Annual heat gains and losses, from different parameters for this case, can be seen in figure 4.9.6.2.
The thermal performance for the base case winter along with mixed-mode is seen in figure 4.9.7.1. It is important to note that usage of HVAC is considered for operational hours along with the use of natural ventilation as and when required by the temperature limit, and the use of night shutters during non-operational hours, considering this scenario as the mixed-mode case, along with introducing change in glazing properties for improving insulation.
Similar to the previous simulation results it can be seen that the temperature variations in the operational hours are within the comfort band, for the mixedmode case, however, there is an impact in the reduction of annual heating demand. Double Low-e argon glass, as additional insulation which helps in reducing external heat gains during summer, with a U-value of 2.08 W/K is used. Furthermore, introduction of 50mm thick night shutters with thermal conductivity as a common insulation material (0.04W/mK) is done. The temperature for HVAC in the mixed-mode case is set to 20°C, which is giving a heating load of 1.98W/ m2.
A comparison of the annual heating demand, for the base case and mixedmode case, can be seen in figure 4.9.7.3, which shows a drop of 20% in energy consumption, further improved by the mixed-mode case to 31.5% as mentioned above. Annual heat gains and losses, from different parameters for this case, can be seen in figure 4.9.7.2.
The analysis of computer lab 02 will be carried out in this section. It is located on the ground floor and accessed either through 39 Bedford square or 16 Morwell Street in the Architectural Association building premises. The computer lab is operational on all days throughout the year except for days when the school is closed for vacations.
In terms of the layout (Figure 5.1.1), the computer lab has an area of 20.70 m2 with a height of 3.5 m. This layout is considerably smaller than that of the computer lab studied earlier. It consists of computer work-stations parallelly placed across the room.
The room has top-hung windows on the northeast facade facing a small courtyard, and a casement window on the southeast facade facing a barren site. All windows are single-glazed (Figure 5.1.2, 5.1.3). The windows on the northeast facade consist of roller blinds and are openable up to 50%, while the other window with a higher sill level is fully openable and does not have any blinds. It can also be observed that due to no building obstructions in close vicinity with the space, a large amount of daylight is received through this fenestration. The room also consists of 3 radiators which are manually operated as per user convenience.
The flooring has black carpet and the workstations are of a white matt finish, which prevents glare. The walls and ceiling are white which gives a sense of a larger space as understood from occupant interviews.
The lab consists of 13 computers. Though the space has varying occupancy patterns, the computers are never turned off throughout the week. The maintenance and efficiency of the systems are affected by external environmental conditions.
Furthermore, the area is well equipped with ceiling-mounted compact fluorescent lights that are user-controlled as required.
Finally, the ceiling slab is exposed to the exterior along with a pyramidal skylight present at the center. Hence, given the name ‘Lantern room’ to this space. However, the skylight is currently closed by wooden paneling due to issues of security and excess glare into the room.
3 RADIATORS MANUALLY OPERATRED
PYRAMID SKYLIGHT CLOSED WITH WOODEN RAFTER 0 - 13 OCCUPANTS
ORIENTATION |NE - SW
DIMENSIONS | 5.3M x 5.4M
AREA | 20.70 SQ.M
COMPUTERS |13
WALL-WINDOW RATIO
NORTH EAST | 37%
SOUTH EAST | 15%
BLINDS | ROLLER BLINDS
NORTH- EAST WINDOWS
NORTH EAST SLIDING WINDOWS (2)
1.0 X 2.1M
SOUTH EAST CASEMENT WINDOW (1)
1.1 X 1.0M
To get a better judgment on the thermal performance of the spaces, the team conducted an online survey. These surveys were answered by students who were found to use the lab regularly. A total of 11 responses were received. When it comes to different opportunities for adaptive comfort, it is observed that a majority of students are well clothed, to improve their level of comfort. This was considered to be an important factor at the time of the survey, as the computer lab 02 is in free-running mode and has a radiator that can be mechanically controlled as and when required by the occupants.
In terms of thermal comfort, figure 5.2.1 shows a majority of 63% of occupants experiencing the space to be warm. Considering the volume of the computer lab 02, it was observed that the heat generated by the systems was one of the major reasons for heat gains. When it comes to noise levels, air quality, and visual comfort a majority of votes were towards a certain level of discomfort. Not having enough fresh air supply, good daylight distribution were some of the reasons for the above.
Some of the specific comments from the students, which said that the space felt too stuffy, lack of fresh air, was small for the number of systems showed clear signs of occupant discomfort, and helped the team analyze the parameters that needed to be worked on, to improve the indoor performance.
Temperature spot measurements were also noted down at the same period (October 26th, 2021, at 9:00 am, 2:00 pm, and 6:00 pm). The results are depicted in Fig 5.3.1.1, Fig 5.3.1.2, Fig 5.3.1.3.
The computer lab is a free-running module and is hence affected by the outdoor conditions to a greater extent when compared to the computer lab studied earlier. The windows being closed and the radiators not being in use were the conditions of the computer lab while the measurements were taken.
To begin with, the temperature in the computer lab with no occupants at 9.00 AM was registered at an average of 24°C, while the outdoor temperature which was registered on Morwell Street was 13°C. A difference of 11K was observed between the outdoor temperature and that of the computer lab. Similarly, the temperature recorded at 2.00 PM with occupants provided similar results with the indoor temperature being an average of 25°C though the outdoor temperature was 18°C. Furthermore, the temperature recorded at 6.00 PM with no occupants in the space showed a temperature range of 250C while the outdoor temperature was 160C. Due to the windows being closed and negligible changes observed in the space during the time of spot measurement, it is clear that was no significant effect by the external environment.
The graph in Fig 5.3.1.4 shows that the temperature variation throughout the space in various spots lie in the comfort range for an occupant.
To be able to identify potential causes of heat exchange and losses several thermal camera Images were taken. The images (Fig 5.3.1.5, 5.3.1.6, 5.3.1.7, 5.3.1.8 and 5.3.1.9) show a clear illustration of the heat transfers that occur within the openings of the room.
13°C
Figure
Temperature Analysis at 2:00 PM Sky Conditions | Clear
| 18.8°C Occupancy |
Temperature Analysis at 6:00 PM
Humidity and Illuminance spot measurements were taken of the computer lab-2, on October 26th, 2021, at 3 different times of the day, namely at 9:00 am, 2:00 pm, and 6:00 pm under clear, cloudy, and partly cloudy sky conditions. The results depicted in Fig. 5.3.2.1, Fig. 5.3.2.2 and Fig. 5.3.2.3 shows relative humidity levels ranging from a minimum of 38% to a maximum of 50% throughout the day at various spots, while the outdoor humidity level was around 62%
The computer lab is a free-running module and is hence affected by the outdoor conditions to a greater extent when compared to the computer lab 01. Higher values of the recorded humidity ranging from 46%-50% are observed to be during mid-day around 2.00 pm, however, the humidity level is in the lower ranges of about 39-46% for early times of the day and the evenings. This can be attributed that the increase in temperature due to system and occupant-generated heat resulting in a drop in humidity levels.
The graph in Fig. 5.3.2.7 shows humidity variations throughout the space in various spots are lower than that of the outdoor atmosphere.
At first, a lux of 4025 was measured in the illuminance level of the adjacent outdoor spaces, the small courtyard, which was the highest measured value of all. The illuminance level was then measured at the same time with and without artificial lights in the room. The illuminance levels near the windows facing the courtyard were around 15-40 lux, while the values of that near the window facing the barren site ranged between 15-25 lux when the lights were switched off. However, with the use of artificial lights, the illuminance levels ranged from 150250lux and 270-470lux on the sides with windows facing courtyard and baren site respectively. The side of the barren site compared to the other spaces of the computed lab presented the higher illuminance values, due to the sill height, lesser building obstructions, and south-facing facade.
According to the measurements, the illuminance levels varied from 140-170 lux and 20-40 lux, with and without artificial lights respectively, in the central aisle. As already predicted in the previous analysis, the aisle presents a general lack of daylight and receives a negligible amount, as the skylight is covered by a solid wooden panel. The results depicted in Fig. 5.3.2.4, Fig. 5.3.2.5.
Lastly, it can be observed that there is a need for artificial lights to reach the range of comfort illuminance levels, however various solutions may also be proposed to receive adequate daylight. Hence, it can be concluded that the recorded measurements corroborate the findings which were predicted in the solar and shadow analyses.
The graph in Fig 5.3.2.8 shows that there is a stark variation in the illuminance levels with and without artificial lights.
To study the illuminance required for our computer lab, a series of computational analyses were carried out using parametric tools. Summer and winter solstice along with equinox were the three different times of the year, that were considered as our period of analysis.
Figure 5.4.1.1 clearly shows the inadequacy in daylight distribution for most parts of the year, the lowest being in December, with a certain increase in lux levels during summer. Due to less amount of natural daylight, it was concluded that certain usage of artificial lighting needed to be used, keeping in mind the function of the space
Digital simulations were further done to understand the daylight availability of the space. Figure 5.4.2.1 shows the existing exterior image of the smaller computer lab. After enquiring to the facilities about the skylight being covered up from the inside, we were informed that the reasons were excess glare along with security issues. The team then identified the parameters required to resolve these issues, along with the lack of natural ventilation.
Figure 5.4.2.3 represents the daylight received by the room in the current situation with the skylight being sealed by a wooden panel, receiving a minimum of 7% of sufficient daylight. To resolve this, the wooden panel was then replaced by clear glass. However, though the room receives adequate light of almost 59% as observed in Figure 5.4.2.4, there is additional glare which is unfavorable for the working conditions. Furthermore, the skylight was covered with double Low-E argon glazing as a thermal barrier, allowing adequate daylight for 30% of the year as observed in Figure 5.4.2.5. The comparison for the same can be seen in Figure 5.4.2.2.
These iterations through simulations, helped us come to certain conclusions. The change in glazing properties, taking into account glare and security issues, can resolve and help achieve the recommended daylighting levels in the room.
The same simulation tools helped us get image-based analysis for the computer lab. Figure 5.4.3.1 shows fisheye images with contour lines and fluorescent images, in candela per square meter. These images also indicate the inadequacy of daylight distribution throughout the interior of the space.
Through these studies the team was able to get a better understanding of the parameters that needed to be looked into. Solar control being one of them, however taking into consideration the space and its funtion, it is also important to note that the use of artificial light was inevitable, in order avoid glare and create discomfort for the occupants.
The data loggers were placed in the computer lab for indoor temperature data measurement and in the new yard, AA terrace, Bedford Square, and Morwell Street for the collection of outdoor data measurement (5.5.1- 5.5.4)
Due to the space being in free-running mode, the conditions at which the data logger measurements were taken, are as follows:
- The windows were closed at all times on the first 3 days and were open to 25% during the operational hours, for the rest of the days of the logging period. The radiator was turned off for all days of the logging period, except for the last day.
-The occupancy pattern in the working hours of the school varied between 0-9 occupants over the day during weekdays and a maximum of 4 occupants on the weekends.
Based on the gathered and evaluated data from the data-loggers, depicted in Figure 5.5.5 and the occupant interview, the following conclusions were drawn:
-The outdoor conditions differed each day, with alternations between cloudy, partly cloudy, and rainy weather. The outdoor temperature difference on the same day reached 15 K (3/12). The maximum measured indoor temperature was 24°C (03/12 at 19:00) and the minimum was 19°C (4/12 at noon), while the maximum measured outdoor temperature was 11°C (03/12 at 19:00) and the minimum was 2°C (2/12 at 9:00).
- In general, it can be observed that there is a negligible variation in the temperature between outdoor spaces within the AA building premises and the ones outside.
-The temperature within the computer lab varied by 10K from that of the outside, it followed a similar pattern with the rise and fall in temperature on the first 3 days of the logging period (1/12- 3/12). However, there was a difference in the indoor temperature from 4/12 - 6/12 with a drop of 4-5°C from that was the previous, due to the windows being opened on the north-east facade during operational hours.
- As expected, from 4/12 - 6/12, since the windows were open during nonoperational hours, a temperature drop of 2-3°C was observed, ranging from 1922°C and reduced even further at times with zero occupants. Yet, the temperature always ranged within the comfort band almost for the entire measured period, ranging from 19-25°C.
- Furthermore, we observed a rise in temperature on the last day of the logging period as an effect of the radiator being turned on and the windows being closed in addition to the rise in outdoor temperature.
Additionally, spot measurements were taken on 06/12 at 9:00, 12:00, and 16:00 and it was observed that there was a similarity of the measurements taken in the dataloggers and the spot measurements.
Moving on to the soft computations, three cases of the current scenario along with summer, winter weeks, and a solution case for summer were considered to predict the indoor temperatures.
For the first three cases, from figure 5.6.1 certain parameters were taken into account with the help of standards (CIBSE) and on-site measurements and calculations. These simulations were carried out for a day in November with an outdoor temperature of 150C. As observed in the graph, there is a significant increase in the indoor temperature as the number of occupants increase which in turn increases the heat gains due to appliance loads.
Similarly in the summer condition case, an outdoor temperature of 230C with a maximum of 13 occupants was considered, which showed a predicted indoor temperature of 33.90C, resulting in a rise of 10.90C above the outdoors. This resulted in an environmental condition where the occupants would experience extreme discomfort and the space would not be suitable for work. Hence as a solution for this, additional ventilation of 15 ac/h was provided along with changing the glazing properties and it was observed that there was a significant drop in temperature to 27.50C which is well within the comfort band.
Under winter conditions it is observed that due to a drop in temperature outside (80C), the predicted mean indoor temperature is well within the comfort limit. This case is done by considering maximum occupants with maximum systems on working mode.
Figure 5.6.2 emphasizes that the major reason for the rise in the indoor temperature is due to the appliances as compared to the solar gains. This varies with varying occupants. The temperature rise can be controlled by finding design solutions that help in increasing heat loss and thus improving the thermal performance of the computer lab.
It can also be observed that the rise in temperatures above outdoor for cases with maximum occupants is similar irrespective of the outdoor temperatures, however, there is a significant drop as soon as additional ventilation is provided.
Use of Double Low-e argon glass, which helps in reducing external heat gains during summer and internal heat loss during winters (Figure 5.7.1). This also helps in increasing daylight in the space. The thin, transparent hard pyrolytic Low-E coating allows 67% of the solar heat gain to be transmitted and 78% visible transmittance into the space, aiming at comparatively higher daylight to enter the computer lab.
As the existing skylight is sealed due to overheating and glare during the peak times, a potential solution was considered of having a louvered stacked roof with double Low-E argon glazing (Figure 5.7.2). This would help in increasing heat loss and ventilation during summer when the temperature would rise much above the comfort band. This potential solution also helps in improving daylight during winters.
Use of natural ventilation and ventilative cooling is the potential for low operational energy use and associated low CO2 emissions and operational costs. (Dejan Mumovic et al, 2013). In addition to this, the use of night shutters was introduced during winters, which would help retain the heat generated through the systems and balance the heat losses to gains during operational hours (Figure 5.7.3).
Solar control strategies are adaptive for effective light distribution and glare prevention. Adaptability becomes a key issue when real-time control is needed to modulate between maximal and minimal exposure to the outside. The addition of louvers in the fenestration, allowing the room to run on a free-running mode, also allows reflection of incident daylight as the material of the louvers are acrylic and can be manually operated to optimize maximum daylight.
The base case scenario in this section shows annual indoor temperatures along with annual heating loads. The simulations, in this case, consider the internal floors as adiabatic surfaces, hence an assumption is made that there are no heat gains and loosed from adjacent surfaces. This can be seen as a limitation, as the results can be affected by heat exchange through adjacent surfaces. Table 5.8.1.3 shows the considered parameters used to run simulations.
The seasonal schedule pattern used in the simulations is 10th January to 25th March and 25th April to 18th of December as an operational period with the rest being considered as a vacation.
A temperature of 20°C is considered as per the simulations for the heating schedule. Hence a minimum of 1 and a maximum of 13 occupants have been considered throughout the cases, with a floor area of 25.20m2
Appliance load of 100 W per system as 60% working efficiency is considered, along with varying occupancy patterns. Lighting loads were assumed to be 5 W/ m2, considering the base case scenario.
Figure 5.8.1.4 shows the annual graph for the base case and a free-running case with maximum and minimum occupancy. It was observed that the heat generated by the systems was one of the major reasons for heat gains, hence most of the period from the free-running case is ranging away from the comfort zone. As a result, it is observed that heating is required.
Figure 5.8.1.1 shows the annual heating demand with an energy consumption of 32 W/m2. Annual heat gains and losses, from different parameters for the base case, can be seen in figure 5.8.1.2
Weather File London St James Park
Infiltration 1.0 ACH
Required Fesh Air 8.5 l/s
People Activity 115 W
Lighting 5 W/m2
Appliances 100 W per System
The thermal performance for the base case, over a typical summer week, is seen in this section. As seen in figure 5.8.2.1, the period chosen for this week dates from 6 July to 12 July, where the outdoor temperature is ranging between 12°C to 21°C. The daily global horizontal solar radiation is seen to reach a maximum of 850 Watts. The indoor thermal comfort band is between 22°C to 27°C for the entire month. It is important to note that the operational hours are considered from Monday to Saturday, with Sunday being non-operational.
According to the simulation results it can be seen that, for free-running mode, with maximum occupancy, the temperature ranges from 19.5°C (minimum) to 27°C (maximum). However, with minimum occupancy, there is no significant change in temperature as the heat gains are more than heat losses through ventilation. With regards to the base case, it is seen that operational hours is within the comfort zone. The indoor temperature can be achieved within the comfort band, with the addition of adequate natural ventilation during operational hours.
Annual heat gains and losses, from different parameters for this case, can be seen in figure 5.8.2.2. It is observed that the air exchanges per hour, ranging from 4.5 ac/h to 18.5 ac/h help in improving the thermal performance of the space (Figure 5.8.2.3).
The thermal performance for the base case, over a typical winter week, is seen in this section. As seen in figure 5.8.3.1, the period chosen for this week dates from 30 November to 6 December, where the outdoor temperature is ranging between 2°C to 13°C. The daily global horizontal solar radiation is seen to reach a maximum of 200 Watts. The indoor thermal comfort band is between 19°C to 25°C for the entire month. It is important to note that the operational hours are considered from Monday to Saturday, with Sunday being non-operational. According to the simulation results it can be seen that, for free-running mode, with maximum occupancy, the temperature ranges from 9°C (minimum) to 20°C (maximum). However, the simulations with minimum occupancy show a temperature variation from 9.5°C (minimum) to 17°C (maximum). With regards to the base case, it is seen that only a small period of operational hours is within the comfort zone.
Annual heat gains and losses, from different parameters for this case, can be seen in figure 5.8.3.2. It is observed that the air exchanges per hour, ranging from 4 ac/h to 9 ac/h, which is clearly not sufficient to decrease the indoor temperature (Figure 5.8.3.3).
The thermal performance for the base case winter along with the solution case is seen in figure 5.8.4.1. The use of night shutters during non-operational hours, considering this scenario as the solution case, along with introducing change in glazing properties for improving insulation.
Similar to the previous simulation results it can be seen that the temperature variations in the operational hours are within the comfort band, for the solution case, however, there is an impact in the reduction of annual heating demand.
Double Low-e argon glass, as additional insulation with a U-value of 2.08 W/K is used. Furthermore, the introduction of 50mm thick night shutters with a thermal conductivity as a common insulation material (0.04W/mK) is done.
Annual heat gains and losses, from different parameters for this case, can be seen in figure 5.8.4.3. It is observed that the air exchanges per hour, ranging from 4 ac/h to 15 ac/h, help in improving the thermal performance of the space (Figure 5.8.4.3).
In comparison with the rest of the spaces at the AA premises, the computer labs are unique and have very specific requirements, which was an interesting point of research and analysis for the whole team. The fact that these rooms generated more heat due to appliance loads increased the need for heat loss, which became our major focus throughout the project. We also had to bear in mind some of the other issues like security, inadequate daylight, stuffiness due to lack of natural ventilation and find appropriate solutions. Finding the right balance between occupant comfort and maintaining the efficiency of the systems at a certain temperature was a key approach for our research and design.
To begin with, our spaces comprising of two computer labs and a courtyard, outdoor studies were carried out for the latter. These detailed studies included the solar, daylight, wind, and comfort analysis which gave us a better understanding of the general spatial characteristics and how the space can be used at its optimum. The base case analysis which included wind flow studies showed inadequacy in the wind distribution due to obstruction by high-rise buildings surrounding the AA. Hence introducing natural ventilation became one of the primary design solutions for all cases.
From studies regarding indoor spaces, which included daylight, we concluded that there is a need for artificial lighting in the computer labs, as direct sunlight would create issues of glare. However, summer and winter solutions have been provided in such a way, where the use of artificial light can be displaced. With regards to the thermal performance of all the spaces, the base case was studied in detail with the help of spot measurements, data logger measurements, surveys by various occupants, analyzing the occupancy pattern which helped us conclude that the spaces can be free-running for some parts of the year, however mechanical cooling and heating would also be a requirement. Finally, computational simulations helped determine the annual performance of the computer labs. After studying various cases and possibilities, several design solutions were made to improve the indoor air quality which in turn improved occupant comfort.
For summer conditions, it was observed that the computer labs with maximum occupancy would be overheated. Unless well designed with an adaptive approach, mechanical cooling would be needed to a greater extent. Hence providing natural ventilation and usage of HVAC as and when needed during operational hours through a combination of louvered and fixed windows was proposed.
Similarly for winter conditions, mechanical heating would be required along with night shutters for insulation during operational hours, in a way, where heating loads were significantly displaced.
Overall the project was concluded with a series of individual technical studies by each team member, taking into account the general performance of the spaces and ones take away from the entire research and analysis of project.
The spaces on the southwest side of the building are between courtyards, a narrow street, and other mid-rise buildings. This condition potentially creates overshadowing, particularly in lower levels of the building. Therefore, the new yard faces the same challenges.
After carrying out certain fieldwork measurements and computational analysis the team came to certain conclusions:
- There is no direct sunlight available as the courtyard is blocked by three-story buildings.
- The walls surrounding the courtyard are painted white, which helps with light reflectance but has lower illuminance levels compared to other outdoor spaces.
- The temperature of the courtyard is relatively higher than the outdoor Bedford square temperature due to lack of heat dissipation.
- Shadow mask analysis of the new yard shows the visibility of the sky is obstructed by the surrounding buildings.
- Solar radiation analysis shows that the space does not receive adequate direct sunlight and is mostly shaded throughout the day.
- Wind analysis shows that the space receives very low wind velocity due to obstruction from the surrounding building
- Comfort analysis shows that the space experiences heat stress during summer and would be cold during the winter and spring durations.
Hence, based on the above-given analysis for various parameters, the team proposed certain solutions in order to increase comfort conditions. The retractable glass roofing creates an atrium and increases the potential daylighting in the space.
After analyzing some restraints and carrying out spot measurements for temperature, humidity, illuminance, and air velocity in the computer lab along with thermal and daylight analysis the following observations were made:
-With having one side of fixed windows and the other side restrained from opening due to operable blinds, there is a lack of natural light and ventilation.
-Mechanical cooling is provided, set to a temperature of 18°C prioritizing the performance of the systems, however, the spot measurement taken indoors were in a range of 20°C to 25°C.
-After carrying out a few surveys, we found that the occupants were cold due to mechanical cooling.
-To get a comfort range along with displacing mechanical load, attention must be given to increasing the heat loss.
-The relative humidity decreased as the day passed by due to the presence of mechanical ventilation.
-CO2 level measured from 400PPM to 430PPM
As per the thermal analysis and existing cases, the team came to the following conclusions:
-as observed for the existing case, there was a significant amount of energy consumption due to HVAC.
-Comparing this condition with the computer lab 02 which was free running, necessary simulations were conducted.
-These simulations showed a significant decrease in temperature on a freerunning mode during summers, by providing additional natural ventilation, keeping the issue of security as an important aspect.
After carrying out spot measurements for temperature, humidity, illuminance, and air velocity for the computer lab, the team came to the following conclusions:
- The temperature in the lab was relatively high due to the absence of mechanical cooling and heat generated by the systems resulting in low relative humidity.The indoor-outdoor temperature difference was around 8°C to 10°C
- Taking into consideration the volume of the space and heat generated by the computers, lack of fresh air circulation and natural light was observed.
- The relative humidity remained constant throughout the day since the space is ventilated naturally.
In terms of improvising the thermal and daylight conditions in the room following conclusions were made:
- For the skylight case, an adequate amount of daylight was achieved along with retaining the indoor temperature by changing glazing properties and providing stack ventilation.
-The indoor temperature for free running was found to be well within the recommended comfort band.
The New Yard is a relatively moderate-sized courtyard on the basement level on 16 Morwell Street with an area of 128.50 m2. It is generally used for large-scale installations and other model work by students throughout the year. To comprehend the occupant's comfort levels in the courtyard: Solar Access, Thermal Studies, and Universal Thermal Climate Index were analyzed. Solar Radiation and Overshadowing analysis revealed that the New Yard received little direct sunlight throughout the year. Additionally, the Universal Thermal Climate Index UTCI indicated that for the most part of the year, that courtyard is in comfort range (9C-26C) however, occupants may experience cold stress and thermal discomfort at certain times from November to April.
In order to improve the thermal efficiency during these cold periods, a retractable glass roof was proposed. This system was designed to retract during summer during comfortable outdoor temperatures while closed during winters to retain the heat generated by adjacent spaces and store solar heat gains. We calibrated the thermal efficiency of the courtyard in relation to the roof height and glazing type. Two variations of roof heights restrained by adjacent buildings and window openings were considered: one at level 0, with a floor-toheight ratio of 1:0.33, and the other at level 2, with a floorto-height ratio of 1:0.65. The roof system at level 0 retains more heat and reduces heat loss, thereby enabling a more comfortable environment. While the roof system at level 1 conserves less heat gain compared to the volume of the space, evident in thermal studies.
In terms of glazing, Double Low-E Argon glass with a U-value of 2.08 W/K and Triple Low-E Argon glass with a U-value of 1.58 W/K were considered. The Triple Low-E Argon glazing had a significant impact on the thermal performance of the courtyard during winters by retaining the heat. In conjunction with the roof height, triple glazing at level 0 resulted in higher thermal efficiency of the New Yard. However, given the purpose of the space, the most suitable design strategy is the retractable roof with triple glazing at level 1. It is appropriate for prominent installations and projects carried out in the space.
The study of IT labs at the Architectural Association broadened our understanding of the different elements within the building that play a crucial role in reducing energy consumption while maintaining occupants' comfort. Thermally insulated glazing is one such element that can potentially improve the energy efficiency of windows and make the building occupants more comfortable in both winters and summers. For the purpose of calibrations, thermally insulated Low-Emissivity and Argon Gas glazing were used. Argon gas being less conductive than air when filled in a double or triple glazing unit between two panes, acts as a thermal blanket by reducing the heat loss from the inside during winter and heat gain from the outside during summer. When used in conjugation with Low-E, a microscopically thin coating that reflects heat in the space rather than allowing it to escape through the windows, the glazing provides a more comfortable temperature throughout with lessened energy consumption.
In 'Computer Lab 01' and 'Computer lab 02', Double Low-E Argon glazing was used as additional insulation with a U-value of 2.08 W/K, replacing the single insulated glazing units in the IT labs to understand the impact of glazing on thermal comfort. Moreover, 50mm thick night shutters with thermal conductivity of 0.04W/mK were used as an additional insulating material to prevent heat loss through the windows. They could be retracted during the day for natural light and ventilation while acting as insulation during the night when closed. These modifications and changes in both labs resulted in a significant improvement in comfort hours and energy consumption during summer and winter, evident in thermal simulations. For instance, the simulations indicated a 31.5% energy saving in winter for computer lab 01 with this solution.
For the new yard, a retractable glass roof was proposed. The thermal performance of both Double (U-value of 2.08 W/K) and Triple (U-value of 1.58 W/K) Low-E Argon glazing in the roof was analyzed. There was a substantial improvement in the comfort hours in the case of the triple glazing unit. To conclude, these studies have expanded my understanding of thermal insulation in glazing units and insulation as a whole.
The outcome of this project is a combination of multiple studies and observations which helped me with an in-depth understanding of the parameters involved in the design process. Keeping in mind the spaces (computer labs), heat generation by the appliances was identified as one of the major reasons for occupant discomfort. Providing adaptive opportunities became the main focus in terms of research and design strategies that were introduced to improve the thermal performance of the spaces. One of the key solutions was the introduction of natural ventilation. This helped not only in increasing heat losses but also in maintaining indoor air quality and temperature.
As a part of the technical studies for the bigger computer lab, a contingency design strategy of mechanical ventilation and cross natural ventilation with louvered windows was developed, along with sliding windows on one side (New Yard) and fixed on the other side (Morwell Street) due to security reasons. Louvered windows can be made secure and still have a high ventilation capacity however increases ventilation loss in winter, which acted as an advantage for the computer lab. Due to the temperature differences between indoor and outdoor, there is a pressure created, which in turn drives the air from one space to another. It is important to note that, optimum performance of this system is possible only if the ventilators are not obstructed. As observed from the previous studies, there was not enough wind for wind-driven systems, hence introducing mechanical cooling was inevitable, yet displaceable.
The necessary parameters were added to the simulations, like an air exchange of 8 l/s, per person. Furthermore, using natural ventilation for a particular temperature limit, resorting to mechanical cooling only if the temperature rose above 24, keeping in mind, maintaining the efficiency of the systems. For computer lab 02 which was free running, similar parameters were added, with an approach to enhance the wind flow by stack roof ventilation as an adaptive design strategy. These systems are typically made of a louvered terminal, a base, and damper assemblies that allow the user to adjust the ventilation (Dejan Mumovic et al,2013). In conclusion, developing certain operating patterns can contribute to the whole adaptive comfort system.
In this study, solar control is one of the critical aspects of analyzing the environmental comfort of the computer lab. To reach the equilibrium between visual, thermal, and daylight considerations, strategies adaptive for glare prevention and effective light distribution to the depths of the lab are proposed
Sun path study shows that majority of the sunlight is received from the South Façade. However, the narrow street flanked by tall buildings hinders light from reaching the lab on the ground floor. The replacement of the single glazing windows with microscopically thin, transparent, pyrolytic double Low-E coated argon fixed glass increases the daylight in the space and modulates the balance between visible and invisible transmittance, allowing 67% solar heat gain and 78% visible light. Due to the absence of shutters and mullions, the glass is supported only on the sides, in turn providing a comparatively larger surface area for light penetration. Furthermore, its ability to permit short wave infrared energy from outside and reflect long wave interior energy assists in preventing the loss of heat during winter, as well as glare and overheating of the space.
The addition of louvers as night shutters in fenestrations allows reflection of incident daylight as the material of the louvers is acrylic and can be manually operated to optimize daylight. The louvers can also function as light diffusers during the day. Light shelves of 300mm are also introduced to reflect incident sunlight into the room.
Additionally, in computer lab 02, with the existing skylight which is sealed with a wooden panel being replaced by rigid pyrolytic coated double Low-E argon-glass, a significant change can be observed in obtaining illuminance levels ranging between 300-500 lux and minimal glare as recommended for a computer lab. This condition holds for more than 30% of the year with varying sky conditions.
Overall, it can be understood that solar control although necessary, in a condition such as this, where the computers in the lab emit a certain amount of light from the screen, allow the user to be able to work in a comfortable visual atmosphere irrespective of the various technical strategies applied to the room.
The opportunity to study IT labs at the Architectural Association provided me with a better insight into the complexity of sustainable environmental design and the role various elements comprising a space play in creating a thermally efficient and comfortable environment.
In several ways, this project was both intriguing yet challenging. Observation on a daily basis was crucial in understanding the IT labs and the New Yard. It helped me comprehend the functioning and experience of the spaces beyond the instruments and calibrations. Furthermore, each lab had several problems concerning high energy consumption and thermal comfort. For instance, Computer Lab 01 uses an HVAC system to maintain a constant temperature within the space, even on weekends resulting in higher energy consumption. Several simulations and computations like MInT and thermal studies enabled me to understand the impact of different elements and solutions on the given spaces. It was particularly helpful in developing different design strategies that could be valuable for various spaces in several conditions. Furthermore, throughout this project, I realized that it is not critical to use only sophisticated mechanisms, but even simple solutions and adaptive opportunities like opening windows could help achieve the required comfort levels. In the case of Lab 01, the use of a mixed mode including natural ventilation to cool the space can significantly impact the thermal comfort while reducing energy consumption.
In general, these analyses and studies widened my knowledge about eco-conscious designs and the importance of thermal efficiency while laying the foundation for further investigations.
Throughout Term 1 Project | IT Labs, understanding environmentally conscious design and the role of different elements composing a building in occupants' comfort has widened. In addition, the different tools, studies, and analyses helped comprehend the different performancerelated variables within the building.
The various calibrations and simulations further helped understand the impact of windows, glazing type, infiltration, and insulation on the thermal performance of a space. They further helped develop different strategies to reduce energy consumption and increase occupants' comfort. For instance, in IT Labs, one of the primary things to tackle was heat gain by the systems and the occupants, which resulted in temperature rise. Mixed-mode ventilation systems, such as HVAC during operating hours and natural ventilation during the rest, were proposed to help minimize energy usage in Computer Lab 01. However, using the existing skylight for stack ventilation in Computer Lab 02 helped lose heat gains by systems and occupants. Moreover, it made me realize that simple solutions could significantly impact the performance of the building.
In general, this project has proved to be highly crucial in laying the foundations for further research and investigations in sustainable environmental design.
The term 1 project, has been a scholastic experience as a whole. It has made me understand in-depth, all that goes into designing a sustainable, energy-efficient space. Through the different research and analytical approaches that were taught to us, there has been a learning curve and a better understanding of the process. From the fieldwork analysis, I have acquired knowledge on how to form the basis of our study. Interviewing the staff, conducting spot measurements and surveys, making observations on the outdoor environment, analyzing an occupancy pattern helped me understand the characteristics of the computer labs, their requirements along with identifying the issues. I was intrigued by the amount of energy consumption that takes place in IT labs, taking into account, maintaining the efficiency of appliances. However, it was also observed that resorting to simple adaptive changes in design as well as the clothing of occupants can have an impact on energy savings. The idea was to displace mechanical cooling or heating as much as possible than eliminate it. Moving on to computational analysis, the tutorials and lectures helped me strengthen my skills as a designer and correlate these studies to our spaces. Through a series of calibrations, the team was able to identify various indoor conditions throughout the year. Taking this into account, conclusions were drawn, in the form of design strategies like introducing natural ventilation and changes to the existing condition like improving the glazing properties, which in turn helped improve the indoor environmental performance along with occupant comfort. Understanding the relation between indoor-outdoor environments and adapting to the shift in these temperatures became the main focus of the studies. I would like to conclude by acknowledging my team members, who helped me understand the importance of collaboration, and for the information exchange that helped the project become a success.
The study of the computer labs and new yard in Architectural Association is unique as they are new additions to the refurbished existing structure and provide an intriguing glimpse at higher energy demand when compared to the already energy-efficient structure.
Specifically, the comparison of the two computer labs was of heightened interest to me. Both spaces even though in the same building, behave differently with varying occupants, volumes, equipment, fenestration, and orientation. The computer labs can be marked as both the hottest and coolest space in the building since heat is dissipated from all the equipment, but the temperature can be controlled to make the space cold. Providing stronger evidence to support our fieldwork through simulations enabled me to integrate various parameters for analysis and further develop strategies for improving the building's efficiency. By observing the relationship between outdoor analysis and indoor performance of computer labs integrating daylight and thermal studies, I was able to bridge the gap between ambition and reality. Multiple adaptive strategies for various conditions of the year, catering to different comfort levels thermally and visually in the different spaces were developed. The study concludes that solutions provided in free-running mode could work better than the current scenario with the use of simple adaptive opportunities, bringing a balance between daylight and thermal comfort for the majority of the year.
As a designer, I see the opportunity to address most of the challenges mentioned throughout this report by applying design strategies that can co-exist with most of our functional, analytical and aesthetical ambitions, thus realizing that design can be truly integrated and energyefficient.
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Daily Mean Temperature In London Throughout The Years (Source | Meteonorm)
How would you describe your activity in the last 15 minutes? Sitting (passive work)Sitting
How do you feel at present? Slightly
prefer it to be?
Is there access to temperature control or is it automatically controlled by temperature settings?
How do you find the temperature at your desk, in general? Slightly coolComfortableSlightly coolComfortableComfortableSlightly warmComfortableSlightly coolComfortableSlightly coolSlightly cool
How would you rate the indoor air quality in this room?
it on the range from 1 to 5 (1‐ stuffy ‐‐> 5‐ fresh)
How do you feel with the noise control or
What is your overall comfort level in this room?
atmosphere is relaxed, students can work, talk loudly. like that there is light and it is generally quiet
9AM1PM5PM
SkyConditionCloudyCloudyCloudy
Temperature(°C)13.715.814
Humidity(%)46.34949.3
Luminance(Lux)1420100946
WindSpeed(m/s)0.90.81.2
Temperature(°C)Humidity(%)Luminance(Lux)
9AM1PM5PM9AM1PM5PM
NaturalArtificalNaturalArtificalNaturalArtifical
A123.121.121.438.140.8426388-351-69
A222.921.422.333.536.938.3107157-202-98
A322.221.522.633.137.136.94337-267-188
B121.921.121.733.238.640.63272-130-120
B22221.422.434.237.638.6372-241-170
B321.821.422.731.836.937.43205-388-235
C121.621.221.931.937.939.182140-217-163
C221.321.623.632.236.937.1131338-211-190
C321.321.422.633.336.837100228-260-210
Luminance(Lux)716820650
WindSpeed(m/s)000
NaturalArtificalNaturalArtificalNaturalArtifical
A122.920.120.831.237.737.316148-196-82
A22320.121.333.437.83811126-155-140
A322.820.120.933.539.540.41281-170-155
B122.82020.932.837.838.916145-193-235
B222.72021.130.238.539.512147-229-160
B322.720.12133.43839.81171-144-87
C123320.220.830.739.137.1775-92-78
C223.119.82132.437.9412198-169-140
C323.32020.827.837.737.323101-174-240
16MorvelStreet
9AM1PM5PM
SkyConditionCloudyCloudyCloudy
Temperature(°C)13.715.814
Humidity(%)46.34949.3
Luminance(Lux)1420100946
WindSpeed(m/s)0.90.81.2
Newyard 5PM
SpotsTime
Temperature(°C)Humidity(%)Luminance(Lux)
9AM1PM5PM9AM1PM5PM
9AM1PM
NaturalArtificalNaturalArtificalNaturalArtifical A11213.412.553.25653.11026-417-24A211.41312.752.357.953.61200-531-6A311.812.712.453.56155982-476-28B111.112.312.95668.554.61110-556-16B211.612.712.754.76254.61436-692-16B311.412.612.954.460.954.61211-551-22C110.812.11356.667.355.31357-545-12C210.71212.256.567.954.31560-743-12C310.411.812.55968.555.81415-560-15-
Spot
Case 3 | Maximum Occupancy
Case 4 | Winter | Maximum Occupancy
Case 5 | Summer | Maximum Occupancy
Case 6 | Summer Solution | Maximum Occupancy
Case 1 | Minimum Occupancy
Case 2 | 50% Occupancy
Case 5 | Summer | Maximum Occupancy
Case 6 | Summer Solution | Maximum Occupancy
