Building Technology 2: Thermal Comfort Week 6
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Questions and Answers

What temperature range is generally considered suitable for human occupancy?

  • 5 °C to 20 °C
  • 20 °C to 35 °C
  • 15 °C to 25 °C (correct)
  • 10 °C to 30 °C
  • Which factors can influence human thermal comfort beyond temperature?

  • Lighting intensity
  • Air circulation (correct)
  • Color of walls
  • Furniture arrangement
  • What is the primary purpose of a bioclimatic diagram?

  • To analyze thermal comfort needs (correct)
  • To design aesthetically pleasing spaces
  • To determine maximum allowable occupancy
  • To choose building materials
  • What should designers consider when adapting indoor temperature ranges for seasonal changes?

    <p>The average thermal comfort temperatures (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is it difficult to address the thermal comfort needs of every person?

    <p>Because preferences differ widely (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which method of heat transfer involves physical contact between surfaces?

    <p>Conduction (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary way heat is lost from the exterior of a building in winter?

    <p>To the exterior by conduction (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of material typically has a high thermal capacity?

    <p>Water (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a method of heat transfer?

    <p>Convectional heating (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does thermal resistance indicate in materials?

    <p>The rate at which heat is lost (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does radiation differ from conduction in heat transfer?

    <p>Radiation transfers heat without direct contact (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which is true about materials with high thermal resistance?

    <p>They are good insulators. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What practical application is often associated with high thermal capacity materials?

    <p>Used as heat carriers in building systems (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the significance of a higher R-value in insulation?

    <p>It signifies greater thermal resistance. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are potential effects of high humidity indoors?

    <p>Growth of mold and bacteria (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who plays a key role in the design of temperature regulating systems in buildings?

    <p>Architects and Engineers (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a primary cause of indoor air pollution?

    <p>Synthetic building products (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is moisture control critical in indoor environments?

    <p>It helps inhibit mold growth and supports air quality. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is an essential component for improving indoor air quality in energy-efficient buildings?

    <p>Designing a balanced ventilation system (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In which type of building is infiltration traditionally used to supply fresh air?

    <p>Small residences (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a reason for needing well-designed ventilation systems in modern buildings?

    <p>Tight building envelopes can trap air pollutants. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What best defines thermal comfort?

    <p>A state of mind expressing satisfaction with the thermal environment. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which factor is NOT considered a personal factor affecting thermal comfort?

    <p>Indoor temperature (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to ASHRAE Standard 55, what percentage of sedentary or slightly active persons need to find the environment thermally acceptable?

    <p>80% (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is considered an environmental factor affecting thermal comfort?

    <p>Humidity (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary input energy for the human body's heat generation?

    <p>Food (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is least likely to influence an individual's thermal comfort?

    <p>Economic status (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which personal factor is specifically related to the biological and physiological characteristics of the individual?

    <p>Metabolic rate (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the term 'thermal comfort' suggest regarding body temperature?

    <p>Body temperature should be stabilized without excess heat and moisture loss. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which factor is NOT typically considered when assessing thermal comfort?

    <p>Color of interior walls (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the ANSI / ASHRAE Standard 55 address?

    <p>Thermal comfort calculations (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which organization provides a tool for thermal comfort calculations according to ASHRAE standards?

    <p>Center for the Built Environment (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a primary challenge in determining thermal comfort for a group of individuals?

    <p>Variability in personal preferences (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the bioclimatic design approach primarily concerned with?

    <p>Using nature’s energies for design (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is an example of a standard similar to ASHRAE Standard 55?

    <p>EN 15251 (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which factor can vary with time but is accounted for in thermal comfort studies?

    <p>Air movement (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the objective of the Center for the Built Environment?

    <p>To improve environmental quality and energy efficiency (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What percentage of people exposed to indoor air should not express dissatisfaction according to ASHRAE Standard 62.1.2013?

    <p>80% (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a reason for poor indoor air quality in office buildings?

    <p>Poorly designed ventilation systems (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the preferred strategy for dealing with indoor air quality issues?

    <p>Choosing materials that limit pollution at the source (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How can interior designers contribute to improving indoor air quality?

    <p>By specifying materials that do not contribute to indoor air pollution (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What challenge complicates the diagnosis of illnesses caused by indoor air contaminants?

    <p>Subjective definition of comfort and health (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the indoor air quality definition provided by ASHRAE Standard 62.1.2013 focused on?

    <p>Absence of contaminants at harmful concentrations (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is maintaining a clean building and equipment important for indoor air quality?

    <p>It limits sources of indoor air pollution (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What significant impact has research shown regarding improved indoor air quality?

    <p>Increased health and productivity (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    Thermal Comfort

    The human feeling of satisfaction with a building's temperature and humidity.

    Thermal Comfort (subjective)

    Satisfaction with the thermal environment, judged by how people feel.

    Metabolic Rate

    The rate at which the body produces heat.

    Clothing Insulation

    How clothing affects the body's heat loss.

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    Activity Level

    The level of physical activity affecting body heat generation.

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    Environmental Factors (thermal)

    Building conditions like temperature, humidity and air movement.

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    ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 55

    Defines conditions for 80% of people to find a thermal environment acceptable.

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    Heat Engine (Human Body)

    The human body generates heat to maintain temperature.

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    Mean Radiant Temperature

    The average temperature of surrounding surfaces, considering their size and how much heat they radiate.

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    Air Movement

    The rate of airflow in a space, measured as air speed.

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    Natural Ventilation

    Using wind and temperature differences to naturally circulate air in a building, reducing reliance on mechanical systems.

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    How do humidity levels affect thermal comfort?

    High humidity reduces how effectively our sweat evaporates, making us feel hotter. Low humidity can make us feel drier.

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    Non-uniformity of Environment

    Different spots within a space can have different temperatures, impacting comfort.

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    Steady State Thermal Comfort

    Assuming a stable environment for analyzing comfort, ignoring short-term fluctuations.

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    Thermal Comfort Standards (ASHRAE 55)

    Standards for acceptable thermal comfort in buildings, aiming to ensure a comfortable environment for the majority.

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    Bioclimatic Design

    Designing buildings to harmonize with the natural environment, using elements like solar radiation and wind for comfort.

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    Bioclimatic Diagram

    A graphical representation showing the average maximum and minimum temperatures and relative humidity for a specific location.

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    Thermal Comfort Range

    The temperature range generally considered comfortable for most people, typically between 15°C (59°F) and 25°C (77°F).

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    Interlocking Circles Diagram

    A visual representation showing how biology, climatology, technology, and architecture all intersect in designing for thermal comfort.

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    Thermal Comfort for Design

    The process of addressing thermal comfort needs of most people in a space by considering factors like temperature, humidity, and air circulation.

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    Thermal Comfort Values

    Specific temperature values that define the range for thermal comfort for most people in various conditions.

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    Heat Transfer

    The movement of heat energy from a warmer to a cooler region.

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    Conduction

    Heat transfer through direct contact between surfaces.

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    Convection

    Heat transfer between air and a solid surface.

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    Radiation

    Heat transfer through electromagnetic waves, with no direct contact.

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    Thermal Capacity

    A material's ability to store heat, proportional to its mass.

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    Thermal Resistance

    A material's resistance to heat flow, opposite of thermal capacity.

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    R-value

    The measure of thermal resistance for insulators.

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    Examples of Good Insulators

    Materials with high thermal resistance, like air and wood.

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    Humidity

    The amount of moisture in the air. High humidity can make it feel hotter, while low humidity can cause dryness.

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    Impact of High Humidity

    High humidity can contribute to mold and bacteria growth, and damage interior finishes.

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    Impact of Low Humidity

    Low humidity can cause dryness, irritation, and respiratory problems.

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    Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)

    The quality of air inside buildings, influenced by factors like pollutants, ventilation, and moisture control.

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    Pollution Sources for IAQ

    Materials used in building construction, equipment, and cleaning products can release pollutants into the air.

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    Ventilation Importance

    Ventilation brings in fresh air, removes pollutants, and helps control moisture levels, contributing to good IAQ.

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    What is acceptable IAQ?

    Air with no known harmful contaminants at dangerous levels, where a majority (80% or more) of people are comfortable.

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    What makes IAQ important in modern buildings?

    Buildings are tightly sealed, making indoor air quality more critical for human health.

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    What are the main contributors to poor IAQ?

    Pollution sources inside, poorly designed ventilation, and unexpected building uses.

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    How do engineers address IAQ issues?

    Limit indoor pollution at its source, isolate unavoidable sources, provide fresh & filtered air, and maintain a clean environment.

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    What role do interior designers play in IAQ?

    They renovate buildings for new uses, participate in design teams, and specify pollution-free materials.

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    How does good IAQ impact people?

    It leads to improved health and productivity, making it a cost-effective strategy.

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    What is ASHRAE Standard 62.1?

    This standard defines acceptable IAQ as air with no harmful contaminants at dangerous levels.

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    What are ANSI/ASHRAE Standards?

    These standards focus on ventilation and acceptable indoor air quality, ensuring healthy and comfortable spaces.

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    Study Notes

    Building Technology 2: Mechanical & Safety Systems - Week 6

    • Course: INTD 3007
    • Instructor: Claudina Sula
    • Week: 6
    • Topic: Thermal Comfort & Air Quality

    Thermal Comfort & Air Quality

    • The topic is about creating comfortable interior spaces using HVAC systems
    • Heating is governed by OBC (Office Building Code)
    • Key reading material: Binggeli, chapters 12-14
    • Includes principles of:
      • Thermal comfort
      • Heat transfer in buildings
      • Humidity
      • Indoor air quality

    What is Thermal Comfort?

    • Thermal comfort involves providing and achieving satisfaction with save and comfortable interior environments for human beings.
    • It is about the provision of a stable, normal body temperature that results in satisfying the environment.
    • This is subjective and assessed through evaluation (ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 55).

    Thermal Comfort Factors - Personal Factors

    • Occupants need to be considered for proper thermal comfort
    • These factors include:
      • Metabolic rate
      • Clothing levels
      • Activity levels
      • Age
      • Gender
      • Adaptation
      • Circadian rhythms
      • Cultural influences
      • Stress level

    Thermal Comfort Factors - Environmental Factors

    • Factors relating to the thermal environment include:
      • Air temperature
      • Temperature of surrounding surfaces (mean radiant temperature)
      • Humidity levels
      • Air movement (natural ventilation)
      • Non-uniformity of environment
    • Standards usually refer to a steady state to study thermal comfort, and accommodate limited temperature variations.

    Thermal Comfort Standards

    • CBE Thermal Comfort Tool: can be used to calculate comfort according to standards such as ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 55, EN 15251, and ISO 7730.

    Thermal Comfort Conditions

    • There is a range of variability in thermal comfort based on physiological and psychological factors.
    • Lab and field data are used to define optimal conditions for a specified percentage of occupants.

    Bioclimatic Design

    • An integrated approach to architectural regionalism.
    • Integrates design and performance architecture.
    • Employs natural energies to harmonize buildings with their local conditions, including solar radiation and wind convection.
    • Revolves around four interconnecting circles: Biology, Climatology, Technology, and Architecture

    Thermal Comfort - Bioclimatic Index

    • Bioclimatic diagram: based on maximum and minimum average registers, minimum and maximum average of dry bulb temperature and relative humidity.
    • Important to consider the 'comfort zone' versus 'comfort point' to create a space conducive for thermal satisfaction for many people.

    Thermal Comfort Values

    • The suitable temperature range for human occupancy is 15 °C (59 °F) to 25 °C (77 °F).
    • Factors such as humidity, air circulation, can influence and extend this range.
    • Winter comfort temperature: 20-24 °C (68-75.2 °F)
    • Summer comfort temperature: 23-26 °C (73.4-78.8 °F)

    How to convert Celsius to Fahrenheit

    • °C to °F Conversion: T(°F) = T(°C) × 1.8 + 32

    Human Comfort: Natural vs Mechanical

    • Proper thermal comfort is supported by proper HVAC systems (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) in interior spaces and protects structures and contents.
    • HVAC system design is not enough for comfort, and material selection & space planning are also key to comfort.

    Principles of Heat Transfer

    • Heat always moves from warmer to cooler spaces or surfaces.
    • Thermal equilibrium occurs when there is no temperature difference between adjacent spaces or surfaces.
    • The greater the temperature difference, the faster heat moves.

    Heat Transfer Methods

    • Heat transfer occurs in various ways including conduction, convection, and radiation.

    Heat Transfer Methods - Conduction

    • Heat transfer through physical contact between molecules, surfaces.

    Heat Transfer Methods - Radiation

    • Heat transfer without direct contact through electromagnetic waves.
    • Example of the heat reaching Earth from the Sun.

    Heat Transfer Methods - Convection

    • Heat transfer through the movement of fluids (air).

    Heat Transfer - Terminologies

    • Thermal capacity: ability of a material to store heat, proportional to mass.
    • Thermal resistance: opposite concept to thermal capacity, materials with higher thermal resistance result in slower heat loss.
    • R-value: a measure of thermal resistance, higher value means greater heat resistance of that material.

    Thermal Comfort - Humidity

    • High humidity can cause issues in the interior environment, including mold growth and warping of materials, and irritation to occupants.
    • Low humidity can cause dry skin, nose, and throat irritation, and discomfort for occupants.

    Indoor Air - Introduction

    • Most of human time is spent indoors.
    • Indoor Environments are susceptible to a wide array of air pollutants typically emitted from building products, equipment and cleaning products.
    • Limiting sources, moisture control, and proper ventilation are important for healthy indoor environments.

    Indoor Air Quality

    • Consideration of indoor air quality is increasing due to tightly controlled building environments.
    • Presence of indoor air pollution sources, poorly designed ventilation, and unanticipated uses of buildings contribute to poor IAQ.
    • Designing for good IAQ involves selecting materials and equipment that limit pollution, isolating unavoidable sources, and using effective ventilation/filtration/cleaning systems of the built environment.

    Indoor Air Quality - Illnesses

    • Poor IAQ can lead to illnesses.
    • Building codes are balancing energy efficiency needs with good IAQ.

    Indoor Air Quality - Sources of Pollution

    • Key indoor pollutants include carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, ozone, VOC's, some bacteria and fungi, including radon.
    • Control strategies for each type of indoor air pollution are recommended.

    Indoor Air Quality - Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

    • VOCs are chemical compounds that evaporate from surfaces at room temperature.
    • They are off-gassed by various materials.
    • VOC levels can increase in places where new furnishings, materials, etc., have been installed.

    Indoor Air Quality - Equipment

    • HVAC systems are crucial in managing indoor air quality.
    • Air cleaning equipment, such as filters, cleans and efficiently circulates air.
    • Appropriate equipment size matches the size of the building/space.

    Relevant Resources

    • Relevant external website resources for further research.

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    Description

    Explore the principles of thermal comfort and indoor air quality in the context of HVAC systems. This quiz covers key factors such as heat transfer, humidity, and personal factors impacting comfort as per the relevant building codes. Enhance your understanding based on Binggeli's readings, chapters 12-14.

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