Building Systems Research Articles

Integrating immersive virtual reality (VR) technologies and multimodal IoT-enabled wireless sensor networks for real-time smart human-centered HVAC building system interaction and thermal comfort assessment and visualization

PurposeBy harnessing technology developments such as Internet-of-Things (IoT)-enabled intelligent sensors and immersive virtual reality (VR) experiences, facility managers can access real-time, precise information on thermal comfort-related indicators through virtual facility models. While prior research studies have developed key technologies for improving the understanding of thermal comfort and its impact on the occupants’ well-being and productivity, there remain areas yet to be explored, especially in relation to integrating both real-time data from multimodal IoT-enabled smart sensors and VR technologies. Hence, this study demonstrates the potential of integrating IoT and VR technologies for real-time thermal comfort assessment and visualization as well as user interaction with HVAC systems to enhance thermal comfort.Design/methodology/approachTo develop the proposed integrated analytical framework in this paper, various steps were implemented. First, four multimodal IoT-enabled sensing stations were created and installed to collect real-time thermal comfort-related data (i.e. temperature and relative humidity). Second, a VR environment was developed using the Unity engine to offer an immersive experience. Third, the real-time data from the IoT-enabled sensing stations was integrated into the VR environment by transmitting it to the cloud via the MQTT protocol server, and various programming scripts were developed to provide multiple functionalities to the users, including visualizing the thermal comfort along the entire indoor space as well as interacting with and controlling the cooling and heating HVAC systems. Fourth, the applicability and effectiveness of the developed framework was validated and evaluated by 92 participants using a survey questionnaire.FindingsThe obtained survey results validated the importance and effectiveness of the developed framework on various aspects including graphical satisfaction, spatial presence, involvement, experienced realism, low-to-no cybersickness and overall application satisfaction, among others. More specifically, the findings reflected that the participants’ average scores for graphical satisfaction, sense of spatial presence, involvement and experienced realism were 4.69, 4.61, 4.71 and 4.53 out of 5, respectively. Hence, the results showed that the visualization capabilities of the developed framework serve as a powerful feature that enables a comprehensive visualization of thermal comfort variations across the entire room/office space. Also, the results showed that there were no statistically significant differences between the responses of participants with prior VR experience with those from participants with limited-to-no prior VR experience, thus further highlighting the usefulness of the proposed technology not only for experienced users but also for users from different skills and background.Originality/valueThis research has the potential to revolutionize the way built environments are managed and interacted with, where facility managers can monitor, assess and visualize thermal comfort in real-time as well as interact with the HVAC systems and control multimodal IoT devices in the real-world from a distance through virtual facility models. The proposed framework’s ability to provide dynamic and continuously updated assessments of thermal conditions in real-time positions it as a valuable tool for prompt adjustments to optimize occupants’ comfort levels. Ultimately, the proposed framework provides an intuitive and immersive platform to manage thermal comfort, thus promoting healthier, more productive and eco-friendly indoor environments.

Towards model-driven heat pump control in a multi-story building

Domestic heating systems exhibit significant energy flexibility when integrated with heat pumps and hot-water buffer tanks, especially with fluctuating day-ahead energy prices. However, optimizing these systems in large buildings with shared resources poses crucial challenges. While most existing methods target single-room or single-family houses, this study delves into complexities within a three-story building housing six apartments. The building's heating system comprises a hot water buffer tank, mixing loop, floor heaters, and a Ground Source Heat Pump (GSHP) controlled by a weather-compensated control strategy (WCS). Our approach aims to tackle challenges like integrating real sensor data, scalability, varying weather effects, and diverse resident heat use preferences. We employ CTSMR software to identify thermal behaviour and use reinforcement learning to design an intelligent Uppaal Stratego controller. Our results reveal a 43% reduction in energy costs while maintaining comfort levels compared to WCS. The temporal validity of estimated thermal models is also analyzed.

Smart Building Application in Revitalization of Historic Buildings Case Study: The Museum Bahari, Jakarta

Historical buildings are cultural heritages that require preservation while adapting to modern demands. The Museum Bahari in Jakarta faces challenges in revitalizing its historical architectural elements while integrating adaptive technologies. This research examines the application of smart building systems in revitalizing the museum with minimal intervention to maintain historical integrity. A descriptive qualitative method is used, involving condition analysis, identification of smart technologies, and strategy development. Data collection includes observation, literature review, and case study analysis. Findings indicate that technologies such as humidity sensors, adaptive lighting, and environmental monitoring can enhance building performance and visitor experience without compromising heritage values. This study recommends placing devices in non-structural areas, integrating energy management with conservation needs, and using real-time monitoring systems. These strategies align with heritage conservation principles. The study concludes that smart building technology with minimal intervention offers a sustainable solution for revitalizing historic buildings like the Museum Bahari while enhancing functionality and relevance in the modern era.

Sustainable Design of a Tiny House: Using a Life Cycle Assessment Approach to Compare the Environmental Performance of Industrial and Earth-Based Building Systems

The increased concerns about climate change, diminishing natural resources, and environmental degradation call for deep research into new environmentally friendly building systems that use natural or recycled materials. The article presents an assessment of the environmental and climatic benefits associated with the construction of a tiny house made of quincha, a building system based on a wooden structure filled with locally sourced earth and straw. The tiny house is located in the Elqui Valley, in the Chilean region of Coquimbo, and it is designed to be compact, functional, comfortable, and efficient. The study uses a life cycle approach to assess the environmental impacts of building construction, maintenance, and end-of-life treatment, comparing the adopted quincha solution with four hypothetical scenarios using industrial, prefabricated, and/or synthetic construction materials currently adopted in the region. The thermal performance of all the analyzed solutions is also included in order to provide insights into the impact of the operational phase. This paper demonstrates that the quincha solution, in the face of lower thermal insulation compared to the other prefabricated solutions (the U-value of the quincha wall is 0.79 W/m2K while the U-value of the best prefabricated wall is 0.26 W/m2K), has higher thermal inertia (time lag (TL) and decrement factor (DF) are, respectively, 6.97 h and 0.60, while other systems have a TL below 4 h and DF higher than 0.81). For a quantitative environmental evaluation, the carbon footprint (global warming potential), water footprint, and embodied energy indicators are assessed through LCA, which takes into account the mass of the materials and their emission factors. The effectiveness of the quincha solution is also reflected in environmental terms; in fact, it is found to have the lowest carbon footprint (2635.47 kgCO2eq) and embodied energy (42.7 GJ) and the second-lowest water footprint (2303.7 m3). Moreover, carbon sequestration values, which are assessed by estimating the carbon contained in building systems using wood and straw, demonstrate that the quincha tiny house is the only solution that can theoretically reach carbon neutrality (with its carbon storage value at −5670.21 kgCO2eq).

Assessing the Efficiency of Integrating BIM and Blockchain to Improve Information Management for Mars Buildings: A SWOT-AHP Analysis

This research investigates integrating Building Information Modeling (BIM) and blockchain technology to enhance building information’s security, reliability, and accuracy in Martian environments. Given the unique challenges posed by extraterrestrial construction, this study evaluates the feasibility of this hybrid approach through a structured SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) analysis. Expert inputs were collected through a comprehensive questionnaire identifying nine strengths, eight weaknesses, eight opportunities, and six threats to implementing BIM and blockchain technology in space projects. The Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) was used to prioritize these factors. Findings indicate that the strengths are cost calculation and budgeting (26.21), and the weaknesses are technology complexity (25.488). Increased productivity (19.16) is the most important criterion at the opportunity point, and defects in data security (20.68) are the most important at the threat point. The SWOT analysis places BIM and blockchain integration in a conservative strategy quadrant, indicating that the technology holds significant promise but requires further development and refinement. Ultimately, this research contributes to the growing knowledge about extraterrestrial construction technologies and provides a foundation for developing flexible and autonomous building systems for Martian habitats.

Economic Viability and Environmental Benefits of Integrating Solar Photovoltaics in Public Community Buildings

Saudi Arabia relies heavily on fossil fuels for electricity generation, leading to significant environmental challenges, including high levels of greenhouse gas emissions. This study evaluates the environmental and financial impacts of integrating solar PV systems in public buildings, specifically mosques and schools, in the central region of Saudi Arabia. Using machine learning-based forecasting, we analyzed power consumption and solar generation patterns. The results show that the integration of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems could lead to a reduction of 1.02 million tons of CO2 emissions annually and a 48% decrease in net present cost. These findings highlight the potential of solar PV to mitigate environmental harm while offering financial benefits in alignment with Saudi Arabia’s renewable energy objectives

Challenges and Opportunities for Building Information Modeling in Facility Management: A Case Study from Egypt

The objective of this study is to evaluate the obstacles encountered when using Building Information Modeling (BIM) in Facility Management (FM) within the context of Egypt. The research methodology employs a case study approach, using a single case study to investigate the phenomenon of interest. A comprehensive literature review was conducted, resulting in the identification of 42 challenges to BIM usage in FM. These challenges were classified into five primary groups and formed the basis for a five-point Likert scale questionnaire, which was utilized to collect insights from FM professionals in Egypt. The survey participants included facilities and maintenance managers, as well as BIM employees. The data collected were also analyzed deploying the Impact Effect Index (EI) method. Furthermore, the EI findings indicated that the primary difficulties were the integration of building system design with BIM, the establishment of handover requirements, the integration specifications between the FM and BIM, and securing accurate and reliable data. The category with the highest EI was challenges related to BIM implementation in FM. The research identifies the significant challenges affecting BIM adoption in FM in Egypt, thereby promoting the development of BIM implementation strategies. Consequently, the findings hold practical importance for various stakeholders within the construction sector in Egypt.

Rationalisation of factories in Norway: from classical to modern architecture 1920–1929

This period experiences the process of rationalisation – not only of industrial production but also industrial buildings’ technology. This paper demonstrates how this process affected the Rjukan and Notodden UNESCO World Heritage Site in Norway during the period of 1920–1929. The post-war period demanded change since one of the world’s leading industrial nations, the USA, had seemingly advanced from European counterparts. Countries like Germany would adapt these new methods of rationalising construction through prefabricated manufactured building systems. This method would have an impact and lasting effect on architectural style. An era of neo-classical expression dominated by classically trained architects was challenged by engineers’ design of defined and efficient structural systems. This move to simplicity eventually inspired architects to develop it further to a style of functionalistic expression. Modernism was born, and it was encouraged through rationalisation and repetition of standardised details. The systems of this period were built on technology such as steel and concrete skeletal structures. They were developed further to be more material resourceful and time efficient. Researching building systems and analysing their characteristics supports not only future conservation work but also it connects to the global context of architecture and engineering history.

Multi-functional hybrid energy system for zero-energy residential buildings: Integrating hydrogen production and renewable energy solutions

Multi-functional hybrid energy system for zero-energy residential buildings: Integrating hydrogen production and renewable energy solutions

RETRACTION NOTICE: Integration of hydrogen storage system and solar panels in smart buildings

RETRACTION NOTICE: Integration of hydrogen storage system and solar panels in smart buildings

Multi-objective optimization and posteriori multi-criteria decision making on an integrative solid oxide fuel cell cooling, heating and power system with semi-empirical model-driven co-simulation

An integrative solid oxide fuel cell combined cooling, heating and power system in green buildings with hydrogen energy of byproduct water enables carbon neutrality transformation. However, underlying mechanisms on capacity sizing of combined cooling, heating and power system devices and its impacts on system techno-economy have not been figured out especially considering dynamic degradation and efficiency of associated devices. In this study, a multi-software optimization platform is established by MATLAB-TRNSYS co-simulation for sizing parametrical analysis, with well balance of modelling complexity and computational efficiency. A self-sufficient combined cooling, heating and power system is modelled integrating with a semi-empirical surrogate model of solid oxide fuel cell to interact with other balance of plant types efficiently. Total energy efficiency and annual total cost are optimized through parametrical analysis on device size of each component (battery, electrolyzer and solid oxide fuel cell) and analysis of variance for contribution ratio quantification. Results indicate that, the size increase in electrolyzer and solid oxide fuel cell will improve system total energy efficiency by 13.635 % and 2.194 %, but promote annual total cost by 4.042 × 104 $ and 2.389 × 103 $, respectively. Besides, sensitivity analysis indicates that the electrolyzer size prioritizes other design parameters in techno-economic performance. Optimal sizes of battery, electrolyzer and solid oxide fuel cell are in cell number range of 333 – 403, 17 – 20, and 26 – 30, respectively, with corresponding optimal total energy efficiency and annual total cost at 70.861 % – 72.147 % and 6.723 × 104 $ – 7.325 × 104 $, respectively. The research results can provide guidance on hydrogen-based cooling, heating and power system design and operation with techno-economic feasibility for low-carbon district energy transition.

A comprehensive investigation of thermal characteristics of beam-blocks, concrete slab, U-boot slab and waffle slab flooring systems of buildings through CFD simulations

A comprehensive investigation of thermal characteristics of beam-blocks, concrete slab, U-boot slab and waffle slab flooring systems of buildings through CFD simulations

Experimental and modeling investigation of thermally activated building systems integrated with ground source heat pump systems

Experimental and modeling investigation of thermally activated building systems integrated with ground source heat pump systems

Control System Design for 3 Storey Elevator Using PLC OPTA FINDER

Elevators are a crucial vertical transportation system in multi-story buildings, and the use of an appropriate control system can enhance operational efficiency, comfort, and safety. This study aims to design a control system for a 3-floor elevator using a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) OPTA FINDER, which offers advantages in flexibility and ease of programming. The design process involved creating a control system schematic, programming with ladder diagrams, and testing on a small-scale elevator model. The test results demonstrated that the system could operate the elevator with fast and accurate response in detecting floor positions, controlling automatic doors, and responding to emergency conditions. Furthermore, the PLC OPTA FINDER proved reliable in managing elevator system components and facilitating program modifications without requiring hardware changes. This control system also contributes to energy efficiency through optimized motor speed regulation. Thus, the implementation of the PLC OPTA FINDER provides an effective and safe solution for modern elevator control systems.

Thermodynamic, Economic and Environmental Assessment of Vapor Compression Refrigeration System Using Mono and Binary Nanolubricants (TiO2-B)

Nowadays, the need for energy is gaining significant importance. However, energy consumption in developed countries is quite high. Almost 40% of this energy consumption comes from heating, refrigeration, and air conditioning systems in buildings. Hence, even a minor enhancement in refrigeration systems will lead to energy savings on a global scale. Many studies are being conducted for this circumstance. One of these is the addition of nanoparticles to refrigerants and lubricants. In this study, the effects of mono and binary nanolubricants obtained from different nanoparticles (TiO2 and Boron) used at different concentrations (3.5 g/L and 7 g/L) in the vapor compression refrigeration system were evaluated in terms of energy, exergy, environment, and economy. As a result, a 16.47% increase in COP value was obtained in 7 g/L TiO2-B binary nanolubricant compared to pure POE. The energy consumption of the compressor in the system reduced by 13.06% in the 7 g/L TiO2-B binary nanolubricant compared to POE. A 35.20% decrease in total exergy destruction was detected in 7 g/L TiO2-B binary nanolubricant compared to POE. 43.44% increase in exergy efficiency occurred in 7 g/L TiO2-B binary nanolubricant compared to POE in the system. When the system was examined from an economic perspective, a 35.84% improvement was observed in the 7 g/L TiO2 binary nanolubricant compared to POE. When the system was examined environmentally, an 11.90% reduction was achieved in 7 g/L TiO2-B binary nanolubricant compared to POE. As a result, it is seen that significant improvements occur in the system as the concentration increases when mono and binary nanolubricants are used compared to POE.

Energy efficiency and indoor climatic conditions in buildings: dynamic modeling for systemic improvement

Improving the comfort of living and/or working conditions in buildings usually requires an increase in the consumption of energy and building materials, e.g., for thermal modernization, and thus additional economic costs. It is also important to note that this does not always lead to a reduction in overall emissions of pollutants into the environment, taking into account emissions at all stages of the production and use of energy and materials for energy efficiency and comfort in buildings. The paper is devoted to the problems of modelling energy supply systems for buildings, including methods and means of simulating thermal regimes of buildings and their engineering systems, as well as methods and means of modelling the operating modes of heat pumps that can be used in such systems for a coordinated improvement of energy efficiency and indoor climatic conditions in buildings. Based on the developed mathematical models, the dynamic modes of building energy supply systems are studied and recommendations for improving their efficiency are given. The dynamic models of the energy supply system is implemented in the MATLAB/Simscape software environment and the possibilities (schemes) of detailing the components of different types of sources are shown. The obtained results were verified by means of energy models created in the widely used software product EnergyPlus. It was found that, according to the quasi-steady-state method, the deviation of the energy consumption does not exceed 13% and is about 5% in dynamic modes. The possibilities of using a gas boiler and a heat pump as the most common sources of individual energy supply systems for buildings are investigated. It was found that the heat pump has a more flexible load level control. Its use can reduce the instantaneous power value by up to 40%, but the frequency of switching on the pump is much higher (about 4 times) compared to the gas boiler. If the energy sources produce the same amount of energy, the heat pump keeps the temperature within the set range more efficiently, avoiding overheating. In general, the presented energy dynamic building model and its software implementation allow a wide range of researchers to simulate different energy supply systems to ensure proper energy efficiency and indoor climate in a building.

Comparative Study of Bundled Tube System with Bracing System for High Rise Building

Comparative Study of Bundled Tube System with Bracing System for High Rise Building

Hospital Architecture Adaptability: A Systematic Analysis of Concepts, Implementation, and Measuring Tools

This research aims to explore the concept of adaptability in hospital architecture through a systematic literature review. The methodology used was Systematic Literature Review (SLR) with PRISMA approach, utilising Watase Uake platform for analysis for the analysis of 26 selected articles published between 2015 and 2024. The results show that the need for adaptability of hospital architecture is driven by advances in medical technology, demographic changes, and learning from the COVID-19 pandemic. Findings reveal that the implementation of modular design, separation of building systems into independent layers, and integration of information technology can facilitate building adaptability. The development of measurement tools from simple qualitative approaches to comprehensive models such as GAAT, OBAT, and OFAT designed specifically for healthcare facilities. However, their implementation still faces gaps especially in different local contexts. This research contributes to the understanding of the importance of adaptability in hospital design and highlights the need for the development of more specific measurement tools for the Indonesian context.

Integration of the Adaptive Approach in HVAC System Operation: A Case Study

Although different investigations have been carried out on the analysis of adaptive thermal comfort in naturally ventilated buildings, fewer have focused on mixed mode operation. Moreover, there is limited research as for the implementation of adaptive comfort models into the control system of buildings. Therefore, this paper investigates how the application of a setpoint based on adaptive comfort control (ACC) would affect occupants’ comfort considering mixed mode operation and based on the results of a longitudinal field study in an academic office building of a tertiary educational institution in southern Spain. The manuscript analyses the Thermal Preference Vote over 12 months in a mixed mode room with an HVAC system whose setpoint is adjusted with a previously calculated adaptive algorithm for the building. For that, a thorough analysis was conducted in which users identified situations regarding thermal comfort and the operation of the conditioning system was collected. The results indicate that it is possible to develop adaptive comfort models that ensure the thermal well-being of occupants. Moreover, this study highlights the need for further research to assess the implications of ACC in terms of comfort and energy consumption as well as addressing the future improvements and the limitations of the work carried out.

Reduce Cooling Load using AI-based KNN Enhanced Roof System (KNN-ERS): CASE STUDY (TRIPOLI- LIBYA)

Energy depletion is considered one of the greatest challenges facing the planet. One way towards solving this challenge involves architectural adaptations to the local climate to decrease energy use. This study looks at the city of Tripoli located in northern of Libya. People depend extensively on air conditioning systems that result in higher energy consumption. This study proposes implementing AI-based KNN Enhanced Roof System (KNN-ERS) in buildings to decrease cooling energy consumption. The focus is on the importance of insulating the external walls of the building, by adding 50.8 mm thick board insulation to the wall components and use of double glazing techniques. Our methodology consisted of an energy simulation using a hourly analysis program (HAP). Using this simulation, we assessed the effects of KNN-ERS on the reduction rate of cooling loads in library building at the Higher Institute for Science and Technology Qasr Bin Ghashir, Tripoli, Libya. Simulation results show that the proposed AI-based KNN Enhanced Roof System (KNN-ERS) reduce the cooling load significantly, from 32,242 kW to approximately 30,580 kW during peak cooling load in July. This represents a 5.15% reduction in the total cooling load. Insulating the external walls reduces the cooling load through the walls by 32%, and using double glazing technology reduces the thermal load through the windows by 33.7%. The significance of this impact suggests that architects should be more mindful about utilizing passive cooling methods in buildings, reducing the consumption of energy for residents and prompt accomplishing environmental friendly buildings.