Design Environment Research Articles

Multiobjective design of automated order fulfillment systems: A case study for an existing surgical complex

We present a case study that introduces a systematic framework for designing an automated guided vehicle (AGV) order fulfillment system. The multi-stage framework integrated discrete event simulation (DES), super-efficiency data envelopment analysis (S-DEA) model, and Design of Experiments (DOE) methodologies for the design of an AGV system in an existing large-scale surgical complex within a comprehensive hospital in Singapore. Performance metrics derived from this model were consolidated into a single relative efficiency score using the S-DEA model. This efficiency score was then utilized in a DOE methodology, combined with a post-hoc model selection process, to robustly identify appropriate models for evaluating alternative system designs. The proposed framework optimizes AGV deployment by first identifying opportunities for AGVs to add value within the surgical system through a value-stream mapping approach. It then derives the optimal system design by balancing cost efficiency, manpower reallocation, and order fulfillment rates, facilitated by the S-DEA model augmented with the DOE approach and post-hoc model selection. Application of this framework to the surgical complex revealed several insights that can significantly enhance AGV efficiency prior to actual deployment. However, a key limitation of this case-study-based approach is its limited generalizability across different systems. Despite this, the methodology provides a robust foundation for AGV system design in similar healthcare environments.

Facade Design and the Outdoor Acoustic Environment: A Case Study at Batna 1 University

The relationship between architectural design and outdoor acoustic environments remains underexplored, particularly in educational spaces where noise levels impact comfort and usability. This study investigates the impact of building facade height on the outdoor acoustic environment in university courtyards. Acoustic measurements were conducted in two courtyards at Batna 1 University, each surrounded by buildings with distinct facade heights. Key acoustic parameters, including reverberation time (RT), early decay time (EDT), rapid speech transmission index (RaSTI), Definition (D50), and sound pressure level (SPL) attenuation were evaluated at specified source-receiver distances. The results reveal a strong correlation between RT20 and distance at higher frequencies due to building facade reflections, while lower frequencies are more influenced by geometric configuration and material absorption properties. The results demonstrate that RT and EDT increase logarithmically or polynomially with distance, especially at higher frequencies (2000–4000 Hz), due to the decrease in direct sound energy and increase in reflected sound amplitude. Taller building facades lead to longer RT and EDT values compared to lower heights. D50 and RaSTI decrease polynomially with increasing source–receiver distance, with lower values observed in the courtyard with taller facades, indicating reduced speech clarity. The SPL attenuation is influenced by surrounding geometry, with the least reduction in the courtyard with lower facade heights, followed by the taller facade courtyard, contrasting with semi-free field conditions. These findings highlight the significant role of building facade height and architectural elements in shaping the acoustic characteristics of outdoor spaces, providing valuable insights for designing acoustically comfortable urban environments, particularly in educational settings.

Research on Teaching Reform of Landscape Engineering Course based on the Concept of CDIO

With the advancement of new engineering construction, it is urgent to explore the teaching reform of professional courses in the cultivation of landscape architecture professionals in combination with industry needs. In order to solve the problems existing in the current Landscape Engineering course, such as traditional teaching methods, insufficient student interest, lack of practical links, and the disconnection between teaching content and industry demand. This study discusses the teaching reform of the Landscape Engineering course based on the CDIO (Conceive-Design-Implement-Operate) concept, aiming at solving the problems mentioned. Through the integration of CDIO mode, the core competencies that students should have are defined, including environmental landscape design and planning, innovative thinking, project management, and so on. The research emphasizes project-driven learning, interdisciplinary knowledge integration, and practical skill training, and puts forward strategies such as teacher training and professional development support to ensure the implementation of the reform. The purpose of the reform was to improve students’ professional ability and employment competitiveness, promote the improvement of education quality and the sustainable development of the industry, and exert a positive impact on landscape engineering education and industry progress.

The parental perspective of residential environments associated with children's self-regulation

BackgroundThe lack of early development of self-regulation (SR) skills in children can significantly impact their future success. Multiple theories emphasize the role of the environment on child development including SR skills, with income level influencing this relationship. The research used a framework that ties together theories on environmental design and establishes a relationship between the physical environment and a child's ability to self-regulate and manage stress. Limited research exists on addressing physical environmental factors in low-income households and how these factors affect children's self-regulation. PurposeThe purpose of this study is to identify physical environmental factors that can help children deal with stress. The study uses Shanker's self-regulation model and the ecological model to guide the study's data collection and analysis concerning the home environment in relation to child self-regulation from the perspective of caregivers. MethodThis research qualitatively explores affordances factors in the home physical environment in relation to child self-regulation. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and included participants from different income levels and diverse ethnicities. FindingsFifteen affordances factors in the home environment were derived from caregivers' perspectives. The key findings of the study include: (1) The more affordance aspects applied to the home physical design, the better the design is for the child's stress management; (2) Supportive environmental factors can be used to solve hindering effects generated by the environment.

Employee and Supervisor Perceptions of a Policy Promoting Standing in the Workplace: A Qualitative Study

Many employees have jobs that predominantly require sitting, and reducing sitting time to improve physical health has been a focus of health research. A widespread environmental design change is the incorporation of sit-stand desks. Since the workplace plays a large role in a person’s day-to-day activities, researchers and environmental designers must still assess how joint optimization can be reached to satisfy worker well-being and performance. We conducted a qualitative research study to determine how support and/or concern over a hypothetical policy to increase standing in a predominantly seated workplace would differ between those with and without job supervisory tasks. Employees saw the benefits of reducing their sitting time at work and welcomed the added autonomy. Others saw this as infringing their autonomy, uncertainty about how this would affect their tasks, if they would have appropriate equipment, and if the policy was inclusive to people with difficulty standing.

Optimal Determining Air Supply Humidity for Multi-Location Demands Under Different Objectives in an Indoor Moisture Environment: A Comprehensive Method and Case Study

Within high-precision indoor environments, such as semiconductor fabrication or textile plants, humidity control is paramount for preserving product integrity and reducing energy expenditure. The non-uniform indoor air environment poses a significant challenge in achieving humidity regulation that meets the distinct requirements of various locations. Traditional feedback control mechanisms may lead to instability, overshooting, and oscillation in indoor parameters. This paper proposes a comprehensive method to address humidity assurance issues in high-precision indoor environments by establishing analytical expressions that link the demand parameters at different locations with air supply parameters. Using a case study, this paper examines several typical operational scenarios with diverse control objectives, including minimizing dehumidification energy consumption, minimizing air supply humidity adjustment values, and constraints on adjustable air supply inlets. This method enables rapid calculation of air supply humidity and regulation of humidity parameters at multiple locations within the indoor environment. It considers various locations, requirements, optimization targets, and precision, demonstrating that it can quickly determine the optimal air supply parameters based on the objective function. This method facilitates rapid adjustment and high-precision assurance of different humidity requirements at multiple locations, making it suitable for high-precision design and control of indoor humidity environments.

Interaction of perceived Chinese campus walkability and psychosocial factors on college students’ walking behavior

Walking, a physical activity beneficial for both physical and mental health, is influenced by various factors. Although previous studies have acknowledged that walking behavior is influenced by environmental and psychosocial factors, little is known about their interactions. Based on a socio-ecological model and focusing on Chinese college students, the purpose of this study was to examine the influence of campus walkability and psychosocial factors on college students’ walking behavior, including the interactions between these factors. This study seeks to enhance understanding of how to promote walking behavior through campus environmental design and psychological interventions. Multiple regression analysis was conducted on the questionnaire data. Findings revealed that campus walkability significantly influenced both walking behaviors, alongside psychosocial factors such as attitude, self-efficacy, perceived benefits, perceived barriers, and subject norms. Additionally, significant differences in interaction effects between these factors were observed for purposeful versus recreational walking behaviors. These interactions suggest that campus walkability more substantially promotes walking behavior in students with negative psychosocial factors, whereas its impact is less pronounced in those with positive psychosocial factors. The results underscore the need to focus not only on developing walkable environments but also on understanding the synergies with the psychosocial factors of target populations, offering crucial insights for campus planning and health promotion practices.

Research on the Application of Digital Technology in Environmental Art Design

In the context of rapid development within the global education system, the widespread application of digital technology is profoundly changing the educational environment, particularly in the field of environmental art design. The use of digital tools has significant impacts on teaching effectiveness and innovative practices. This paper analyzes the current application of digital tools, virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and other technologies in environmental art design, exploring how digital technology enhances students' design abilities and innovative thinking. Additionally, by integrating intelligent design tools and interdisciplinary innovation pathways, this paper examines the transformative effects of digital technology on teaching models and proposes strategies for teaching feedback and improvement based on data analysis. The research results indicate that effective application of digital technology not only improves teaching quality but also offers greater possibilities for future educational innovation. In the future, the application of digital technology in educational environments will further deepen, leading to ongoing impacts and transformations in environmental art design education.

Towards gamification for spatial digital learning environments

Digital learning environments exhibiting spatial dimensions, such as VR experiences or virtual labs, have become increasingly common in recent years. At the same time, it is known that gamification, i.e., the application of game-like mechanisms, might support the motivational design of learning environments. However, so far, there seems to be no systematic overview on whether and how spatial dimensions are incorporated into gamification mechanisms. Accordingly, we conducted a systematic literature review to identify gamification mechanisms that use spatial dimensions. Out of 849 articles we finally included 11 articles found in the three databases ScienceDirect, IEEE, and ACM DL that conducted gamification in the context of spatial digital learning environments. For the most part, the gamification mechanisms used in these 11 articles did not relate to any spatial dimension. Conclusively, we state that there have been few approaches to gamification exploiting the spatial dimension. Given the limited findings in the literature, we propose developing a model to bridge existing gaps and support a structured approach to incorporating spatial dimensions into gamification mechanisms. Accordingly, we contribute to enhancing spatial digital learning environments with further motivational cues through spatial gamification mechanics.

What are the architectural influences in the Harry Potter film series’ set design and immersive environments?

This research paper delves into the architectural influences on the set design within the Harry Potter film series and why it was so successful. This review focuses on three key locations—Hogwarts Castle, Diagon Alley, and the Burrow—studying the use of Gothic Revival, medieval, Victorian, and rustic architectural styles to uncover the film’s cultural and historical context. The study emphasizes the importance of thoughtful set design in audience engagement and creating a deeper connection with the fictional world. This case study demonstrates how architecture serves as a framework in set design and ultimately contributes to the massive success and impact of the Harry Potter series.

Ecological empathy: relational theory and practice

ABSTRACT Sustainability science researchers are increasingly interested in human–nature connection as a leverage point for societal transformation. Empathy has potential as a way to reconnect people to nature by building relationships among more-than-humans. However, current approaches to empathy with more-than-humans usually prefer sympathy and compassion. I argue that these approaches limit the potential of empathy when considering human–nature (re)connection. I use the established concept of social empathy (Segal 2011, 2018) to structure a new presentation of empathy with more-than-humans: ecological empathy. Ecological empathy, as presented in this paper, consists of two subcomponents: contextual understanding of more-than-human interdependencies and more-than-human awareness and earth system perspective-taking. From this new perspective, I suggest defining ecological empathy as a cognitive and affective ability, which allows for internal coherence across bodily separation in humans and their environment. Integrating literature from biophilia, deep ecology, embodied cognition and multi-species ethnography, I elaborate on ecological empathy with inspirational practices that can be advanced across a range of decision, policy and design environments to address human–nature (re)connection.

Research on the Application and Innovation of Environmental Design in Ideological and Political Work in Universities

As higher education continues to evolve, the effective integration of environmental design and ideological and political work has become a key issue for enhancing educational outcomes. This paper delves into the theoretical foundations, current status, and applications of environmental design in conjunction with ideological and political work, proposing innovative models and strategies. First, the article analyzes the core theories of environmental design, including environmental psychology, spatial cognition, and environmental behavior theory, and explores their intersection with ideological and political education theory, educational psychology, and socio-cultural theory. Second, the paper evaluates the current state of environmental design in universities, identifying the effectiveness and challenges, such as insufficient alignment with objectives, technical and financial limitations, and imperfect evaluation mechanisms. Lastly, the article introduces innovative models like thematic design, functional zoning, and immersive experience design, suggesting interdisciplinary integration, intelligent design, and community feedback mechanisms as strategies for innovation. Practical guidance and policy recommendations are provided to promote the deeper application of environmental design in ideological and political education.

A review on early-age cracking of concrete: Causes and control

The early-age cracking of concrete is one of the most critical parameters affecting the performance of concrete structures. It is attributed to both the internal and external influences such as early age restrained shrinkage, thermal deformation as well as the applied load. In this paper, a detailed review of the causes of early-age cracking is first presented, followed by the factors affecting the concrete cracking including raw materials quality problems, improper construction measures, external environmental influences and structural design flaws. Then the preventive measures for concrete cracking are summarized. The potential for the application and development of structural health monitoring and artificial intelligence techniques for early-age cracking of concrete is also discussed. Through the comprehensive review of the early-age cracking of concrete, the research direction for the subsequent research on early-age cracking of concrete is pointed out. The current problems and concerns of concrete cracking are also prospected.

Assessment of merits and demerits of perpendicular and slanted photovoltaic/thermal facades

This study compares the thermal and electrical energy production potential and wind load assessment of perpendicular versus slanted photovoltaic (PV) facades. The goal is to identify the optimal facade orientation for societal adoption based on energy efficiency and wind load considerations. Using Hybrid RANS/LES models, the aerodynamic performance and energy yield of both orientations are analyzed under varying angles and environmental conditions. The findings show that while the slanted façade is better designed to capture solar irradiance, it produces 4 to 8 % less energy than the perpendicular façade and yields approximately 2 % less exergy efficiency due to wind regime. However, the slanted design reduces wind load by 9.8 %, enhancing structural stability. The maximum thermal energy output of 217 kW is recorded from the perpendicular façade at a wind speed of 1 m/s, while the slanted façade generates a peak electrical power of 68 kW at 8 m/s wind speed. Overall, the perpendicular façade underscores more efficient in equal weather conditions, making it a sustainable choice for PV installation. These results provide valuable insights for architects, engineers, and policymakers in optimizing PV facade design for urban environments.

Enhancing AR‐based learning environments for STEM education: A design‐based study on design features, kinematics learning and mathematics self‐efficacy

AbstractThis design‐based research project explored how various design features of AR‐based learning environments (ARLE) influence students' mathematics self‐efficacy and learning of kinematics. Specifically, five ARLEs with different design features were developed and implemented with 136 seventh‐grade students in two rounds. Data were gathered from pre‐ and post‐mathematics self‐efficacy tests, interviews, classroom observation records and reflective journals, to identify which design features promote or hinder students' learning and self‐efficacy. Results revealed that adopting a well‐designed ARLE is a viable way to promote students' learning and mathematics self‐efficacy, and the success of ARLE lies in (1) coherent tasks with proper time for self‐exploration, progressive levels, useful problem contexts and a certain degree of open‐endedness, and (2) sufficient technological affordances with strengthened authenticity, clarity and integrated media presentation, as well as engaging interactions with decent flexibility, embodied actions and feedback. These results validated the applicability of the proposed checklist for ARLE designers and practitioners in their design and implementation of ARLEs, within the domain of mathematics, physics and beyond. Practitioner notesWhat is already known about this topic AR‐based learning environments (ARLEs) have demonstrated substantial advantages in STEM education, but ARLEs can be a drawback if they are not adequately designed. ARLE may facilitate students' mathematics self‐efficacy, and relevant design features are underexplored. Design‐based research sustains interventions combining empirical research and theory‐driven design of innovative learning environments, for example, ARLEs. What this paper adds Demonstrates the potential of ARLEs that can be used in classrooms to support STEM learning. Identifies a collection of effective and ineffective design features of ARLEs that promote or hinder students' STEM learning and mathematics self‐efficacy. Tackles the challenges for the design of ARLEs for classrooms by taking AR technological affordances and the pedagogical perspective together. Implications for practice and/or policy Five ARLEs for STEM topics were developed and implemented in secondary schools. Evidence of positive impacts of ARLEs on students' learning and mathematics self‐efficacy. Our research produces useful guidelines for designers and practitioners in their development and implementation of ARLEs in real classrooms.

Design and vibration test of first mirror mount assembly for ITER divertor VUV spectrometer

The divertor vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) spectrometer is a diagnostic system in the ITER tokamak, monitoring impurity content and behavior in the divertor region. The first mirror of the spectrometer, made of silicon carbide (SiC), is exposed to harsh environmental conditions, including high temperatures and significant inertial loads from electromagnetic disruption events. To ensure its reliable performance, we have designed and tested a robust mirror holder assembly. This paper introduces a novel design of the first mirror holder assembly for the ITER divertor VUV spectrometer and presents the results from comprehensive vibration tests conducted on a full-scale mock-up. The design features a double-holder structure with spring plate assemblies to accommodate thermal expansion and resist vibrational loads. The mock-up underwent a series of resonance search, sine dwell, and random vibration tests, replicating the expected loads during vertical displacement events in ITER. The mirror holder assembly and the dummy mirror successfully withstood the vibration tests without damage, validating the design for the ITER environment. The results demonstrate the robustness and reliability of the mirror holder assembly, ensuring the accurate and reliable operation of the divertor VUV spectrometer in ITER.

Form Equals Function: Influence of Coacervate Architecture on Drug Delivery Applications.

Complex coacervates, formed through electrostatic interactions between oppositely charged polymers, present a versatile platform for drug delivery, providing rapid assembly, selective encapsulation, and responsiveness to environmental stimuli. The architecture and properties of coacervates can be tuned by controlling structural and environmental design factors, which significantly impact the stability and delivery efficiency of the drugs. While environmental design factors such as salt, pH, and temperature play a crucial role in coacervate formation, structural design factors such as polymer concentration, polymer structure, mixing ratio, and chain length serve as the core framework that shapes coacervate architecture. These elements modulate the phase behavior and material properties of coacervates, allowing for a highly tunable system. In this review, we primarily analyze how these structural design factors contribute to the formation of diverse coacervate architecture, ranging from bulk coacervates to polyion complex micelles, vesicles, and cross-linked gels, though environmental design factors are considered. We then examine the effectiveness of these architectures in enhancing the delivery and efficacy of drugs across various administration routes, such as noninvasive (e.g., oral and transdermal) and invasive delivery. This review aims to provide foundational insights into the design of advanced drug delivery systems by examining how the origin and chemical structure of polymers influence coacervate architecture, which in turn defines their material properties. We then explore how the architecture can be tailored to optimize drug delivery for specific administration routes. This approach leverages the intrinsic properties derived from the coacervate architecture to enable targeted, controlled, and efficient drug release, ultimately enhancing therapeutic outcomes in precision medicine.

Age-Friendly Environment Design of High-Speed Railway Stations from a Healthy Ageing Perspective: A Case Implementation in Nanjing, China

China stands out as one of the countries with the largest and fastest-growing elderly populations. Elderly requirements for the quality of high-speed railway stations environment are increasing. The relationship between the built environment of high-speed railway stations and elderly health has become an urgent problem to be solved. The challenge necessitates a systematic approach to age-friendly design. Based on the practical experience of the authors in an age-friendly design of an indoor environment at Nanjing South Railway Station, questionnaire surveys and user interviews were employed to profile four types of typical elderly passengers. Data collection methods were used to create behavior maps. (1) This study identifies the age-friendly needs of elderly passengers, pinpointing the key environment issues. (2) It proposes age-friendly design strategies for various functional areas of Nanjing South Railway Station. (3) It introduces an age-friendly module combination design system, which including basic type I, enhanced type II, and optimized type III, in order to meet the demands for six levels of high-speed railway stations in China. This study promotes the age-friendly transformation of environments at a high-speed railway station, offering theoretical foundations and methodological references for constructing an age-friendly environment from a healthy ageing perspective.

The updated design of university libraries in the digital era

AbstractWith the rise of the digital era, digital reading and learning have become widespread. University libraries, as core locations for study and communication, face challenges in fully meeting the demands of modern teaching and learning. This paper takes the library at the Changqing campus of Shandong University of Arts as a case study to explore the environmental space design of constructed libraries in the digital era. By reviewing relevant concepts and theoretical frameworks, analyzing the existing environment, and researching intervention design methods, the paper discusses the positive role of adapting to the digital future in renovating established library spaces.

Exploring the Impact of Digital Technologies on Team Collaborative Design

This paper presents the results of a protocol study exploring the impact of various digital technologies on team collaborative design processes. Previous studies have suggested that compared to traditional methods such as sketching, digital technologies can provide further benefits for collaborative processes. However, there persists a lack of understanding about the impacts of digital technologies on such processes, particularly in relation to emerging significant digital technologies such as immersive Virtual Reality (VR). Therefore, this study aims to fill that gap by exploring team collaboration behaviours of two groups of professionals working in two digital design environments—desktop 3D modelling with Revit and immersive VR using Hyve-3D—as well as their behaviours during traditional sketching sessions for benchmarking purposes. Utilising protocol analysis method, the think-aloud data of participants was recorded, transcribed and coded using an adapted collaborative practice model. Team collaboration activities are broadly categorised as ‘Content’ or ‘Process’: content referring to design task-based activities, while process refers to activities related to the organising of group processes. The results suggest that during the design collaboration process, designers allocated the majority of their efforts towards process-oriented design activities. Differences between design environments only had a minor impact on the amount of effort expended on process-oriented activities and content-oriented activities. Moreover, traditional sketching design environments were shown to be potentially beneficial for problem-solution and associated negotiation activities. Additionally, immersive environments were associated with a reduction in the designers’ cognitive effort that was expended on exploring the design environment.