Environmental Technologies in Building: Climate and Thermal Behavior

Prerequisites: 6111-M1 or equivalent.This course examines the fundamental scientific principles underlying the thermal behavior of buildings and introduces students to the existing technologies for creating and controlling the interior environment. Beginning with an overview of the Laws of Thermodynamics and the principles of Heat Transfer, the course will investigate the application of these principles in the determination of building behavior, and explore the relevant material properties and design variables, including climate, for controlling that behavior. The basic characteristics of HVAC systems will be discussed and students will also be exposed to the newer technologies that will have increasing influence on architectural design. In addition, current trends in environmental design, including simulation modeling and indoor air quality, will be highlighted.