Simon Tucker

Thermal simulation software outputs: a framework to produce meaningful information for design decision-making

This paper describes a process used to develop and test a framework to produce thermal simulation post-processed information meaningful to building design decision-making. The framework adopts a user-centred approach in which the building designer is considered the ultimate simulation tool user either directly or indirectly when supported by consultants. The framework supports the building designers ‘modus operandi’ and is developed through a set of interdisciplinary research methods. Participatory Action Research, Thematic Analysis and Grounded Theory are used, together with principles from Information Visualization, dynamic thermal modelling and Building Design, following a design approach to problem-solving taken from the discipline of Interaction Design. The various elements of the framework and their connections are derived from analysis of sequences of design actions made by novice designers undertaking complex design activities. Tests of the framework are undertaken through an online questionnaire and five semi-structured interviews with UK architectural design practices.

Thermal simulation software outputs: a conceptual data model of information presentation for building design decision making

Building simulation outputs are inherently complex and numerous. Extracting meaningful information from them requires knowledge which mainly resides only in the hands of experts. Initiatives to address this problem tend either to provide very constrained output data interfaces or leave it to the user to customize data organisation and query. This work proposes a conceptual data model from which meaningful dynamic thermal simulation information for building design decision-making may be constructed and presented to the user. It describes how the model was generated and can become operational, with examples of its applications to practical problems. The paper therefore contains useful information for software developers to help in specifying and designing simulation outputs which better respond to building designers’ needs.

An experimental study of moisture buffering of bio-insulations in lofts

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to describe and discuss initial work to assess the moisture buffering performance of selected bio-insulations in lofts that suffer from excessive moisture following refurbishment. Design/methodology/approach – These conditions were then reproduced in a physical lab-based experiment such that the comparative performance of the bio-insulations and stone wool could be measured. Findings – It was found that the bio-insulations could remove over 60 per cent of the moisture in the loft air, and therefore reduce the risk of condensation and its severity. Research limitations/implications – The initial work reported here is indicative of the buffering potential of bio-insulations but further work is required to better quantify this performance. There is a need to further examine lofts with moisture problems and to produce reliable testing methods and protocols to be used when retrofitting loft insulation. Practical implications – Installers and specifiers of loft insulation ...

Thermal simulation outputs: exploring the concept of patterns in design decision-making

This paper describes the ongoing development of a building performance simulation (BPS) knowledge management scheme for design decision-making. This knowledge management scheme is developed with reference to the patterns of Christopher Alexander and colleagues, which describe commonly recurring abstract problems in architectural design together with successful abstract solutions. As such they form a ‘repository of knowledge’ on architectural design. Patterns have been used in other fields such as software engineering where they also aim at capturing expert knowledge, and their potential to do the same for BPS is explored here. Decision support using simulation is introduced and the concept of patterns described. A pattern structure is developed and some examples given. Interviews with architectural practices investigated whether patterns could support design processes, and the further development of the concept is discussed.

Some design aspects of sustainable post-disaster housing

Purpose - This paper discusses selected aspects of the design of post disaster housing building on current guidance in this area. We focus on the use of appropriate materials and technology to suit the climate and site and draw lessons from traditional housing types and settlement patterns. Design/methodology/approach - A case study of a design project is used to illustrate an approach toward sustainable design. The approach is structured and could therefore fit into the wider structures and frameworks of providing such housing. Findings - A design was generated that meets many of the desired environmental criteria. It was also found that important design resources are required by the design team not mentioned in the existing guidelines. Research limitations/implications - A limitation of the paper is that the design is hypothetical and there has been no input from prospective inhabitants or other groups. Practical implications - The design approach illustrated here may be of use to relief organizations working in the field, and also could be used to develop further awareness of sustainability. Organizations that provide for and coordinate post disaster construction could consider making further design resources available as part of a project. Social implications – The study addresses the design of housing which itself is an activity located in society. Originality/value - The paper adds to discussion on the design of post disaster housing and supports the argument that such housing can help to support wider and longer term development.

Investigating the potential benefits and risks for low to zero energy air sourced earth coupled cooling and heating systems

A significant portion of the energy consumption associated with the built environment is due to the Building Services Engineering (BSE) sector of the construction industry. air conditioning and heating systems use significant energy in buildings. According to Energy Efficiency Best Practice Programme (2002) [1], heating and hot water takes up 84% of annual energy consumption in UK residential buildings and Action Energy (2003) [2] states that 42% of energy is associated with heating and cooling. Therefore steps need to be taken to improve energy efficiency and thereby make reductions in carbon footprint. This paper presents an overview of air‐sourced earth coupled cooling and heating systems (ASECch) and describes ongoing research intended to provide clear information on their operation and performance through identifying the most important parameters of these systems in different climates and applications. The presenting author has worked with ASECch systems since 1994 and has experience with their application in diverse climatic zones in different countries around the world. This particular paper will describe the research and application of ASECch systems. The potential for the ASECch system is to deliver comfortable, healthier buildings for reduced energy costs and associated greenhouse gas emissions.