Engineered Systems magazine’s April 2019 issue focuses on K-12 schools, showcasing how districts across the nation are using hybrid systems and advanced BAS systems to cut their energy use and costs, how kitchen ventilation systems should be installed and maintained, and more. The issue also examines the present and future of artificial intelligence in the built environment, one engineering firm’s advanced attempt to create a nonproprietary BMS system, and much more.
For decades, commercial buildings consisted of four walls and a roof. Over time, simple structures evolved into smart buildings, adding computerized control systems.
SMITHGROUP-AI would be an independent, multifunctional reinforcement learning software agent responsible for the monitoring and control of all agents that control all building systems.
Imagine a world where all HVAC equipment, (i.e chillers, variable frequency drives etc.), all BAS sensors, various components of the electrical systems (i.e electrical panels, meters, lighting fixtures etc.), and various components of all other infrastructure systems are connected to a shared, non-proprietary network that integrates the functionality of each system.
When designing a kitchen ventilation system, there are a number of factors that should be considered, such as project budget, building layout, surrounding buildings, system maintenance, operational cost, fire risk from grease buildup, and more.
The opening of a new school is an exciting time. Seeing reactions from students and educators the first time they walk through the door and watching as community members celebrate their investment in education fuels my passion for designing K-12 education environments that inspire students to excel.
Last month, I discussed the benefits of HVAC infrastructure design-build (DB) opportunities for HVAC consulting firms and HVAC contractors. The two main reasons for pursuing DB HVAC infrastructure projects were twofold:
This month’s Facility File will focus on the B2B April test for a K-8 school temporary heating project in sync with a utility rebate to furnish and install a new 120 boiler horsepower (BHP) condensing boiler application.
When a building is found to be consuming excess energy, the next step is usually an energy audit followed by retro-commissioning of the HVAC system. If available, an infrared scan of the building exterior might follow.
These days, everyone seems to want a smart building, but taking the desire for a smart building and turning it into a design is difficult to say the least.
The idea for this month’s topic was hatched during a retro-commissioning project, but it offers lessons to be applied to new construction commissioning.
Overby-Sheppard Elementary in Richmond, Virginia, needed more than an HVAC upgrade, but with tight budgets and minimal state funding, it didn’t seem likely. The 40-year-old building needed a full overhaul to provide students with a healthier, distraction-free environment.
NYC Health + Hospitals, The LiRo Group, and the New York Power Authority (NYPA) have completed the installation of an antimicrobial cooling tower in New York City.
Many K-12 schools today are creating more effective and safer learning environments for their students and staff by enabling their buildings to work harder for them.