A partnership between design firm JLL and Purdue University has found that providing easy access to lighting and thermal controls improves energy efficiency in an office environment.
In addition to studying the impact of easy-to-access controls on workplace energy consumption, researchers are also measuring how a personalized indoor environment impacts occupant comfort and productivity. One goal is to develop algorithms that can learn occupant preferences accurately and efficiently so that automated systems predict how individuals want to tailor their space for optimal comfort.
To date, the research has found a correlation between higher utilization of daylight and decreased energy consumption for participants with easy access to lighting controls. Participants reported higher levels of self-evaluated productivity in customized environments and demonstrated better performance in cognitive tests when thermal and lighting conditions were attuned to their needs.
Researchers now plan to implement a prototype of an automated, algorithmic-based control system in actual office environments.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Nov 17, 2016
Santa Monica, Calif., passes historic net-zero ordinance
Includes more stringent commercial, multifamily building standards.
Codes and Standards | Nov 14, 2016
Six more states approve legal marijuana, creating opportunities for developers
Federal prohibition complicates the picture.
Codes and Standards | Nov 14, 2016
Los Angeles voters approve billions to tackle traffic and homelessness
The approved measures will create new rail lines and permanent housing.
Codes and Standards | Nov 9, 2016
NRMCA updates environmental impacts of concrete
The EPD now includes 88 companies, 72 mixes.
Codes and Standards | Nov 9, 2016
Louisiana flood projections require urgent action, officials say
The 'no net loss’ prediction now seems unrealistic.
Codes and Standards | Nov 8, 2016
American Concrete Institute offers new guide for repair of concrete buildings
The guide provides assistance on assessment and rehab.
Codes and Standards | Nov 7, 2016
The AISC prequalified seismic moment connection standard is now available
You can download the 2016 version for free.
Codes and Standards | Nov 4, 2016
Obama Administration makes a push for denser, more affordable cities
The administration calls for zoning code changes and other measures to create more housing.
Codes and Standards | Nov 3, 2016
OSHA proposes safety standards changes to reduce employer costs
The changes include clarification on excavation standard and reporting job-related hearing loss.
Codes and Standards | Nov 2, 2016
New resources available to reduce plug loads using advanced power strips
A tenant education program can boost efficiency in office buildings.