Environmental Technologies in Buildings

This course examines the fundamental scientific principles underlying the thermal, luminous and acoustic behavior of buildings and introduces students to the existing technologies for creating and controlling the interior environment. Beginning with an overview of the Laws of Thermodynamics and the principles of Heat Transfer, the course will investigate the application of these principles in the determination of building behavior, and explore the relevant material properties and design variables, including climate, for controlling that behavior. The basic characteristics of HVAC systems will be discussed and students will also be exposed to the newer technologies that will have increasing influence on architectural design. In addition, current trends in environmental design, including simulation modeling and indoor air quality, will be highlighted. The course will also examine the application of the basic laws of physics for optics and sound in creating the visual and auditory environment of a building. The relevant material properties and design variables for manipulating those environments will be explored in detail, and students will also be exposed to the various technologies for producing and controlling light, from daylighting to fiber optics. Simulation modeling will be a component of the course.We will have guest lectures by world renowned experts every other week representing the most up to date information and technology in the prospective area.