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 | Oct 15, 2021
New Calif. law mandates use of lead-free plumbing fixtures
Must meet NSF/ANSI/CAN 61-2020 in 2023.
Codes and Standards | Oct 14, 2021
Building industry leaders urge governments to boost emissions reductions targets
Scores of large AEC firms and organizations sign letter to UN’s COP 26 group.
Codes and Standards | Oct 13, 2021
FEMA’s new flood insurance plan will sharply raise insurance costs for seaside properties
Risk Rating 2.0 will have more accurate assessment of flood risk.
Codes and Standards | Oct 12, 2021
Three new laws expected to spur more affordable housing in California
Trio of measures could aid carbon reduction in built environment.
Codes and Standards | Oct 11, 2021
New program to promote mass timber construction launched in Boston
City’s planning and development agency to award grants for projects in early-stage planning.
Codes and Standards | Oct 6, 2021
Intl. Code Council publishes EV and building codes resource
Assists communities in setting policies for electric vehicle charging requirements.
Codes and Standards | Oct 5, 2021
Feds award $1 billion to renovate health centers
Funds will modernize existing infrastructure and cover other COVID-19-related capital needs.
Codes and Standards | Oct 4, 2021
Boston City Council approves mandate for major emissions cuts for large buildings
Applies to buildings 20,000 sf or larger—about 4% of city’s buildings.
Codes and Standards | Oct 4, 2021
HPD Collaborative and Green Seal to align standards
Will result in expanded options for manufacturers to enhance sustainability reporting and certifications.
Codes and Standards | Sep 30, 2021
U.S. has a deficit of 5 million homes
Builders unable to keep pace with demand.