Design Proposal
Background
The buoyancy differences between hot and cool air results in a phenomenon known as thermal stratification, in which hot air rises and cool air sinks. This phenomenon is an issue which architecture responds to. To achieve adequate thermal comfort in the occupied zone, natural ventilation techniques are often employed to mix hot and cool air via convection. There is a correlation between the geometry of a roof and its effect on the thermal stratification of the accompanying spaces. With the varying geometries comes varying depths of thermally stratified layers, which greatly varies depending on a specific climate. As such, buildings located within different climates have different roof geometries. There is a wide body of research comparing the thermal behavior of roof geometries, however, the majority consider the roof geometries of buildings in hot-arid climates. In considering this related research and studying the behavior of vernacular architecture practices of hot-humid climates, such as traditional Indonesian architecture, this project seeks to understand why roofs are designed the way that they are. In understanding this, we as architects can employ specific roof geometries to our architectures to more effectively utilize passive strategies.
The buoyancy differences between hot and cool air results in a phenomenon known as thermal stratification, in which hot air rises and cool air sinks. This phenomenon is an issue which architecture responds to. To achieve adequate thermal comfort in the occupied zone, natural ventilation techniques are often employed to mix hot and cool air via convection. There is a correlation between the geometry of a roof and its effect on the thermal stratification of the accompanying spaces. With the varying geometries comes varying depths of thermally stratified layers, which greatly varies depending on a specific climate. As such, buildings located within different climates have different roof geometries. There is a wide body of research comparing the thermal behavior of roof geometries, however, the majority consider the roof geometries of buildings in hot-arid climates. In considering this related research and studying the behavior of vernacular architecture practices of hot-humid climates, such as traditional Indonesian architecture, this project seeks to understand why roofs are designed the way that they are. In understanding this, we as architects can employ specific roof geometries to our architectures to more effectively utilize passive strategies.
Research Question
What effect does the geometry of a roof have upon the cool layer of occupiable space within a stratified interior space.
Hypothesis
Roof geometries extending farther above the enclosure will result in greater thermal stratification, and will collect a higher proportion of the warmer air within such a geometry. In this case, the four-slant roof is expected to result in greater thermal stratification, and thus a larger layer of cool air at the lower portion of the occupiable space. This would then result in the occupants of the building staying cooler and more comfortable.
What effect does the geometry of a roof have upon the cool layer of occupiable space within a stratified interior space.
Hypothesis
Roof geometries extending farther above the enclosure will result in greater thermal stratification, and will collect a higher proportion of the warmer air within such a geometry. In this case, the four-slant roof is expected to result in greater thermal stratification, and thus a larger layer of cool air at the lower portion of the occupiable space. This would then result in the occupants of the building staying cooler and more comfortable.
Mockup
Diagram depicting prototype environment
Materials
10-Gallon Aquarium - $15
Ink - $6
Pipettes - $2
Flexible Plastic Tube - $3
JB Weld Epoxy - $6
Acrylic - $16/Sheet
Tape - $19
(4) Temperature Sensors - Provided?
Methods
1. Heat metal object on stove
2. Place heated metal object into testing environment
3. Place "roof" element on top of testing environment
4. Insert ink at bottom of testing environment
5a. Record visual (qualitative) stratification of ink
5b. Record temperature (quantitative) variation at (4) heights in testing environment
6. Compare qualitative and quantitative data to confirm testing strategy
10-Gallon Aquarium - $15
Ink - $6
Pipettes - $2
Flexible Plastic Tube - $3
JB Weld Epoxy - $6
Acrylic - $16/Sheet
Tape - $19
(4) Temperature Sensors - Provided?
Methods
1. Heat metal object on stove
2. Place heated metal object into testing environment
3. Place "roof" element on top of testing environment
4. Insert ink at bottom of testing environment
5a. Record visual (qualitative) stratification of ink
5b. Record temperature (quantitative) variation at (4) heights in testing environment
6. Compare qualitative and quantitative data to confirm testing strategy
Construction of roof geometries
Vignettes of ink drop test of different roof geometries
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Ink drop test videos
Schedule
Electronic Controls Strategy
