Building Management Research Articles

Assessing the potential effects of climate change on the morphodynamics of the tropical coral reef islands in the Gulf of Mannar, Indian Ocean.

Low-lying and small tropical coral reef islands around the world are extremely vulnerable to the effects of global environmental change caused by the combination of anthropogenic climate change and escalating extreme hydrodynamic events. Erosion and inundation are anticipated to physically destabilize the tropical coral reef islands, rendering them uninhabitable within the next century. Therefore, it is crucial to assess the repercussions of these hazardous events on the delicate reef island ecosystem in order to conserve and ensure sustainable management. Multitemporal remotely sensed Landsat satellite imageries were utilized to investigate the net and decadal morphological transformation of tropical coral reef islands in the Gulf of Mannar, Indian Ocean. Over the past half-century, these islands have consistently adapted to global environmental changes, even while local sea levels rise at a rate of 3.38mm per year. Advanced statistical techniques, such as net shoreline movement (NSM), end point rate (EPR), and linear regression rate (LRR), were employed for estimating the shoreline change rate using a Digital Shoreline Analysis System (DSAS). In addition, the GIS-based overlay analysis methods were applied to examine the net and decadal areal (planform) changes and also utilized for estimating the inundation trajectories of reef islands under the sea level rise scenarios of 1m and 2m. Furthermore, time series analysis was performed to analyze the variability of critical climate-induced factors using archived reanalysis oceanographic data. In addition, linear and polynomial statistical techniques were applied to investigate the driving factors behind the coral reef island morphological transition. The findings show that two islands have already disappeared, while others have experienced a dramatic reduction in their footprint. Approximately 62.64% of the shoreline experienced significant erosion, while 36.91% witnessed gradual accretion. The Tuticorin group confronted the severe reduction in island footprint, with a significant decrease of 83.04%, followed by Keelakarai groups (33.35%), Mandapam groups (29.60%), Vembar groups (28.14%), and Rameswaram islands (3.43%). The study also predicts that the island footprint could submerge in an area of 627.30ha and 1284.21ha within the next century, with an expected sea level rise (SLR) of 1m and 2m, respectively. The study emphasizes that the combination of human-induced factors and regional coastal processes such as sea level rise and swells are the key drivers engendering the stress on the physical resilience of the coral reef islands. Urgent and continual monitoring of the reef islands is crucial for a better understanding of their dynamic trajectories and for developing nature-based solutions to catastrophic erosion. These nature-based solutions (NbS) for minimizing island erosion are initiatives that use natural ecosystems to safeguard islands while enhancing biodiversity, climate resilience, and community livelihoods. The interactions between nature-based solutions (NbS) for combating erosion, reef island resilience, and Sustainable Development Goals are evaluated based on the positive correlation, our expert knowledge, and Griggs et al.'s 2017 seven-point scale framework. The outcomes of this study may provide comprehensive insights to decision-makers and administrators for formulating and implementing policies for long-term resilience building and sustainable island management.

Advanced Energy Management for Residential Buildings Optimizing Costs and Efficiency Through Thermal Energy Storage and Predictive Control

Advanced Energy Management for Residential Buildings Optimizing Costs and Efficiency Through Thermal Energy Storage and Predictive Control

Advancements in MEMS Micromirror and Microshutter Arrays for Light Transmission Through a Substrate.

This paper reviews and compares electrostatically actuated MEMS (micro-electro-mechanical system) arrays for light modulation and light steering in which transmission through the substrate is required. A comprehensive comparison of the technical achievements of micromirror arrays and microshutter arrays is provided. The main focus of this paper is MEMS micromirror arrays for smart glass in building windows and façades. This technology utilizes millions of miniaturized and actuatable micromirrors on transparent substrates, enabling use with transmissive substrates such as smart windows for personalized daylight steering, energy saving, and heat management in buildings. For the first time, subfield-addressable MEMS micromirror arrays with an area of nearly 1 m2 are presented. The recent advancements in MEMS smart glass technology for daylight steering are discussed, focusing on aspects like the switching speed, scalability, transmission, lifetime study, and reliability of micromirror arrays. Finally, simulations demonstrating the potential yearly energy savings for investments in MEMS smart glazing are presented, including a comparison to traditional automated external blind systems in a model office room with definite user interactions throughout the year. Additionally, this platform technology with planarized MEMS elements can be used for laser safety goggles to shield pilots, tram, and bus drivers as well as security personal from laser threats, and is also presented in this paper.

Digitalization of the Workflow for Drone-Assisted Inspection and Automated Assessment of Industrial Buildings for Effective Maintenance Management

Industrial buildings are a key element in the industrial fabric, and their maintenance is essential to ensure their proper functioning and avoid disruptions and costly economic losses. Continuous maintenance based on an accurate diagnosis makes it possible to meet the challenges of aging infrastructures, which demands a reliable data-based assessment for maintenance management implementing corrective and preventive actions, according to the damage criticality. This paper researches an innovative digitalized process for the inspection and diagnosis of industrial buildings, which leads to categorizing and prioritizing maintenance actions in an objective and cost-effective way from the inspection data. The process integrates some technical developments carried out in this work, aimed to automate the workflow: the drone-based inspection, the building condition assessment from the definition of a standardized construction pathology library, and a visual analysis of pathology evolution based on photogrammetry. The use of drones for digitalized inspection involves some challenges related to the positioning of the drone for damage localization, which has been herein overcome by developing a geo-annotation system for image acquisition. This system has also enabled the capture of geo-located images intended to generate 3D photogrammetric models for quantifying the pathological process evolution. Moreover, the assessment procedure outlined through multi-criteria decision-making methodology MIVES establishes a single criterion to automatically weight the relative importance of the damage defined in the library. As a result, this procedure yields the so-called Intervention Urgency Index (IUI), which allows prioritizing the maintenance actions associated with the damage while also considering economic criteria. In such a way, the overall process aims to increase reliability and consistency in the results of inspection and diagnosis needed for the effective maintenance management of industrial buildings.

Improving Standby Power Management in Buildings: User-centric Design Strategies for Mitigating Human Errors in Standby Power Management and Energy Efficiency

Improving Standby Power Management in Buildings: User-centric Design Strategies for Mitigating Human Errors in Standby Power Management and Energy Efficiency

Optimizing energy flexibility through electricity price-responsiveness and thermal load management in buildings with convective and radiant heating systems

Optimizing energy flexibility through electricity price-responsiveness and thermal load management in buildings with convective and radiant heating systems

Thermal comfort in green Malaysian office: Objective versus subjective evaluation

An office building in Malaysia with a green certification was examined in terms of objective and subjective evaluations of thermal comfort. In this study, thermal comfort data was collected objectively using specific instruments per the ASHRAE 55 standard, and the Predicted Mean Vote (PMV) values were computed. In addition, validated questionnaires were used to assess subjective perceptions of thermal comfort. It was found that, although the PMV model suggested a slightly cool atmosphere occupants experienced a cooler sensation than expected. The divergence highlights the inadequacies of measuring thermal comfort solely based on objective measures and stresses the necessity of incorporating occupant feedback into the assessment process. By focusing on environmental sustainability and occupant well-being, this research provides valuable insight for the management and development of future green office buildings.

PHASE CHANGE MATERIALS (PCMs) FOR BUILDINGS AND AUTOMOTIVE APPLICATIONS: A REVIEW STUDY

Phase change materials (PCMs) play a pivotal role in various sectors, particularly in automotive engineering, electric vehicles, and building construction. In the automotive sector, phase change materials are crucial for thermal management systems, aiding in temperature regulation of components such as batteries and engines. In electric vehicles, phase change materials are instrumental in enhancing battery performance and lifespan by effectively managing thermal loads during charging and discharging cycles, thus ensuring optimal operating conditions. These materials offer significant energy efficiency benefits by absorbing and releasing large amounts of latent heat during phase transitions, which helps in maintaining stable temperatures and reducing the load on heating and cooling systems. Additionally, PCMs contribute to sustainable building practices by enhancing thermal regulation, thereby lowering energy consumption and associated costs. This study explores the diverse applications and properties of phase change materials for improving thermal management and energy efficiency in vehicles, residences, and buildings. This research provides a comprehensive review of innovative solutions, including PCM-based heat pumps, PCM-integrated cementitious composites, and hybrid active-passive battery thermal management systems.

Exploration and Future Development Direction of Electrical Engineering and Automation in Office Property Management

The application of electrical automation technology in office property management has become an important trend in the industry. This paper discusses the exploration and future development direction of electrical engineering and automation in the property management of office buildings. By using advanced sensor technology, intelligent control algorithm, and Internet of Things technology, the electrical automation system can realize intelligent monitoring, control, and management of the internal equipment and facilities of office buildings, improve the energy efficiency, safety, and comfort of office buildings, and reduce the cost of property management and human investment. With the continuous development and application of new technologies such as artificial intelligence, big data analysis, and sustainable development, the role of electrical automation technology in office property management will become increasingly important. The key development directions include strengthening technology standardization and normalization, optimizing user experience and demand customization, and strengthening talent training and technology popularization. Through continuous technological innovation and application practice, electrical automation technology will bring more opportunities and challenges to office property management, and promote the intelligent, green, and sustainable development of the industry.

Optimizing Electrical Energy Management in Apartment Buildings Through Ensemble Neural Network Prediction Model

Optimizing Electrical Energy Management in Apartment Buildings Through Ensemble Neural Network Prediction Model

PERENCANAAN KEBIJAKAN PENATAAN BANGUNAN DAN LINGKUNGAN KAWASAN WISATA SARANGAN

The planning of building and environmental management policies for the Sarangan Tourism Area was carried out through the RTBL program, which provides a guideline for organizing areas that do not yet comply with regulations. This study examined how the Dinas Perumahan Rakyat, Kawasan Permukiman, and dan Cipta Karya Provinsi Jawa Timur planned the RTBL policy using a descriptive qualitative approach based on Handoko’s (2003) planning theory. The results showed that the planning process was well-executed, with clear and measurable goals focused on reorganizing the area’s buildings and environment to support sustainable development. Strategies were carefully designed using SWOT analysis to ensure the policies were effective and aligned with the area’s needs while adhering to national and regional regulations, such as PERMEN-PUPR No. 06/PRT/M/2007. Projects and programs were implemented on schedule and followed proper procedures, using a combination of a top-down approach and limited bottom-up input. Funding was allocated through supervision and development planning forums, ensuring the program met all required standards.

The Application of BMS in Electrical Energy Management and Carbon Emission Reduction

This article presents the application of Building Management System (BMS) in electrical load management. The BMS system in this article structure includes DDC, IOT 2050 Siemens, sensors, inverters and loads. Implementing this system in buildings saves energy, reduces operating costs and reduces CO2 emissions. A comparative analysis was conducted between projects with and without BMS implementation. The investment in the BMS incurs an additional capital expenditure, with a payback period of 7.3 years and a system lifespan of 20 years, providing a return of more than 13% on the investment. The results show significant energy savings with total consumption reduced by 13%. These findings highlight the effectiveness of BMS in optimizing energy use across different areas of a building, providing significant financial and environmental benefits. This research contributes to understanding the economic and environmental implications of integrating BMS into infrastructure development, creating favorable conditions for stakeholders in the construction and energy sectors.

Reliable solar PV on-site generation for EV charging management in commercial buildings using LBO-DTRSRN approach

Reliable solar PV on-site generation for EV charging management in commercial buildings using LBO-DTRSRN approach

Data-Driven Ventilation and Energy Optimization in Smart Office Buildings: Insights from a High-Resolution Occupancy and Indoor Climate Dataset

This paper explores innovative approaches to reducing energy consumption in building ventilation systems through the implementation of adaptive control strategies. Using a publicly available high-resolution dataset spanning a full year, the study integrates real-time data on occupancy, CO2 levels, temperature, window state, and external environmental conditions. Notably, occupancy data derived from computer vision-based detection using the YOLOv5 algorithm provides an unprecedented level of granularity. The study evaluates five energy-saving strategies: Demand-Controlled Ventilation (DCV), occupancy-based control, time-based off-peak reduction, window-open control, and temperature-based control. Among these, the occupancy-based strategy achieved the highest energy savings, reducing power consumption by 50%, while temperature-based control yielded a significant 37.27% reduction. This paper’s originality lies in its holistic analysis of multiple dynamic control strategies, integrating diverse environmental and operational variables rarely combined in prior research. The findings highlight the transformative potential of integrating real-time environmental data and advanced control algorithms to optimize HVAC performance. This study establishes a new benchmark for energy-efficient building management through offering practical recommendations and laying the groundwork for predictive models, renewable energy integration, and occupant-centric systems.

Smart Materials in Green Architecture: The Role of ETFE and Phase Change Materials in Sustainable Building Design

Given the importance of energy in achieving environmental sustainability in green buildings, one of the most significant solutions is to reduce physical building consumption and instead use renewable energy to prevent the depletion of natural resources and environmental pollution. Utilizing advanced technologies and intelligent systems in architecture is one of the methods that can achieve energy management in buildings and ensure comfortable conditions for the occupants of green buildings. In the field of future-oriented architecture, it is expected that in the future, materials and technologies developed over the past century will define the different challenges ahead to elevate sustainable development in the building industry. Using solar energy, one of the latest innovations in buildings, and other measures such as ETFE panels (a green roof idea with an intelligent system) and thermochromic materials, which change color to minimize heat exchange between interior and exterior spaces of the building, show that today's world faces energy crises. The use of smart materials tailored to environmental conditions can significantly impact building design and have beneficial effects in terms of compatibility with the environment, increased lifespan of materials, and the adaptability of materials to changing weather conditions, thus aiding in achieving sustainable architecture. Therefore, this article aims to introduce intelligent materials and their applications and benefits in green building architecture based on library studies. The primary goal is to identify and highlight the most crucial aspects of using intelligent materials and their performance in buildings and how these materials behave and perform in architectural designs. The best way to leverage the benefits of these smart energy-saving materials and management for achieving sustainable architecture will be discussed.

Development of a camera-based device for real-time indoor illuminance distribution assessment using a deep-learning model

Real-time monitoring and assessment of indoor illuminance are crucial for maintaining environmental quality, visual comfort, and building energy efficiency. Traditional systems struggle with complex layouts, but integrating real-time monitoring with smart building management enhances comfort and sustainability. This study presents an innovative method combining a CMOS camera, data processing, and deep learning algorithms. The camera captures continuous images and extracts texture features affected by lighting. A machine learning model then predicts the illuminance distribution, generating detailed light maps in real-time. This novel sensing system, validated through experiments at the University of Skikda, provides a promising solution to improve light management by optimizing daylight use, reducing energy consumption, and enhancing visual comfort. It offers architects and facility managers a tool to integrate real-time data into building management systems for more sustainable indoor environments.

Deriving the Importance of Defects in Multi-Unit Residential Buildings Using the Analytic Hierarchy Process Method

Defects in apartment buildings significantly impact the convenience and safety of residents, and their prevalence has been steadily increasing. This study prioritizes the key defects in apartment buildings to enhance quality management. The primary causes of defects were identified by focusing on frequently occurring issues such as tile installation, flooring, wallpaper, PL windows, and kitchen furniture. A literature review was conducted to analyze the main types of defects, and expert focus group interviews were held to investigate the causes of defects and potential countermeasures. Following this, the analytic hierarchy process was employed to assess the relative importance of these defects and establish their prioritization. The findings indicated that structural issues and material-related factors, particularly flooring and window installation, were the primary causes. Based on these insights, this study proposes a strategic approach to improving quality management in apartment buildings. This research serves as a valuable reference for developers, contractors, and policymakers in defect prevention and management.

A qualitative study on the management system for investigator-initiated studies in healthcare institutions in Beijing, China

BackgroundThe Measures for Management of Investigator-Initiated Studies (IISs) Conducted by Healthcare Institutions (trial version) (referred to as Management Measures) has been piloted successively in 12 provincial regions across China since 1 October 2021 and took effect nationwide on 1 October 2024. This study aimed to examine the perspectives, attitudes and challenges of administrators and investigators within healthcare institutions in Beijing regarding IIS management to provide further strategic guidance in China.MethodsThis descriptive qualitative study included 13 focus group discussions among 74 participants from 25 healthcare institutions stratified selected in Beijing, including 13 executive-level administrators, 41 functional administrators and 20 investigator representatives. The focus groups were conducted from November to December 2021. The discussion topics focussed on current status of IIS management in healthcare institutions and the participants’ attitudes and challenges in implementation of the Management Measures, mainly on the specific management system establishment, independent scientific review, management by study type and whole-process supervision.ResultsOpinions varied among institution presidents/directors regarding the establishment of clinical research management committees and offices, with significant challenges identified in insufficient human resources and difficulties in integrating with existing management models. While scientific review was seen as essential, there was disagreement on how to implement it. Interviewees raised concerns about redundancy for grant-supported projects, unclear distinctions between scientific and ethical reviews, efficiency delays, reviewer qualifications and intellectual property risks. Although management by study type might help control risks, the qualification restrictions on the leading sites and investigators were viewed as excessively stringent. No institution has achieved whole-process supervision of all IISs, primarily due to insufficient human resources, ineffective supervision and management systems, and insufficiently trained professionals.ConclusionsThis study reveals that the current management of IISs is generally weak in Beijing and should be strengthened by implementing Management Measures. However, major challenges existed for the implementation, mainly including: a lack of clear and feasible management models to follow, insufficient human resources for both scientific review and whole-process supervision, and worries about restricting research initiatives. It takes time to overcome these challenges, which may be achieved through building management capacity at national, regional and institutional levels, learning successful management models that were piloted in various regions and further policy research to develop specific guidance.

Advancing cooperation in Health Technology Assessment in Europe: insights from the EUnetHTA 21 project amidst the evolving legal landscape of European HTA.

Health Technology Assessment (HTA) in Europe has undergone significant evolution, culminating in the adoption of Regulation (EU) 2021/2282 on HTA (HTAR) aimed at fostering sustainable collaboration in HTA at the European Union (EU) level. The EUnetHTA 21 project, a 2-year initiative, was commissioned to address key methodological issues and prepare for the implementation of the HTAR. This commentary documents the outcomes of the EUnetHTA 21 project, focusing on Joint Clinical Assessments (JCAs), while analyzing challenges encountered and lessons learned for future collaboration under the HTAR. The EUnetHTA 21 consortium, comprising thirteen European HTA bodies, developed twenty guidance documents and thirteen templates, refining methods and procedures for joint work in HTA at EU level. Pilot JCAs and Joint Scientific Consultations were conducted to test these materials. Lessons learned from this experience emphasize the importance of inclusive consensus building, effective time and resource management, capacity building, and continuous quality improvement. The project's realization underscores a collective commitment among HTA bodies to continue to collaborate, now under a legal framework. Recommendations from the project, along with experiences gained from previous European Network for HTA (EUnetHTA) Joint Actions, provide a foundation for developing guidance for EU-HTA under the HTAR. Further proactive efforts at national and central levels are essential to coordinate and ensure a sustainable cooperation. The EUnetHTA 21 experience provides valuable insights for advancing cooperation in HTA under the HTAR, aiming to improve the quality of HTA, avoid duplication, and ultimately enhance patient access to safe and effective health technologies in the EU.

Advancing building management with nano-enhanced carbon materials: a machine learning-driven business and economic analysis

Advancing building management with nano-enhanced carbon materials: a machine learning-driven business and economic analysis