The nation could start to see the walls of its offices, businesses and homes become smarter as a two-year University of Michigan research-and-development project starts bearing fruit, participants say.
This fall, a team of environmental and computer scientists, along with architects and natural resources specialists launch their project to design, test and build new systems for the “envelopes” or outsides of buildings. These systems would combine the widespread use of sensors, novel construction materials and utility control software.
The result, the researchers say, could be technologies capable of cutting the carbon footprint created by the huge power demands buildings place on the nation’s electrical grid.
Click here to read more. BD+C
Related Stories
| May 3, 2012
Zero Energy Research Lab opens at North Texas
The living lab—the only one of its kind in Texas—is designed to test various technologies and systems in order to achieve a net-zero consumption of energy.
| May 3, 2012
NSF publishes ANSI standard evaluating the sustainability of single ply roofing membranes
New NSF Standard provides manufacturers, specifiers and building industry with verifiable, objective criteria to identify sustainable roofing products.
| May 3, 2012
Gilbane to provide CM services for North Reading’s integrated middle/high school
The project scope includes a wastewater treatment plant, demolition of the existing high school and extensive athletic fieldwork.
| May 3, 2012
Ground broken for $94 million hospital expansion at Scripps Encinitas
New facility to more than double emergency department size, boost inpatient beds by 43%.
| May 3, 2012
Rudolph and Sletten, Inc. wins CMAA award
Firm recognized for the renovation of Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College’s Student Administrative & Griffin Student Center.
| May 2, 2012
Trimble acquires SketchUp 3D modeling platform
The transaction is expected to close in the second quarter of 2012.
| May 2, 2012
Building Team completes two additions at UCLA
New student housing buildings are part of UCLA’s Northwest Campus Student Housing In-Fill Project.
| May 2, 2012
Public housing can incorporate sustainable design
Sustainable design achievable without having to add significant cost; owner and residents reap benefits