Learning objectives
Knowledge and ability to understand: (The Dublin Descriptor)
At the end of the course, the student will have acquired knowledge on the design of buildings capable of reducing energy consumption, and of ensuring adequate comfort to occupants.
Skills: (II Descriptor: Ability to apply knowledge and understanding)
At the end of the course the student will have developed the ability to identify the main parameters that affect the performance of the HVAC systems and to identify the solutions that can improve the performance of the HVAC systems.
Autonomy of judgment: (III, IV, V Dublin descriptor)
At the end of the course the student will acquire a necessary and indispensable autonomy of critical (or self-critical) judgement on the architectural design declined with respect to the specific themes described in the contents (3rd Dublin descriptor);
Communication skills: (III, IV, V Dublin Descriptor)
At the end of the course the student should have acquired sufficient language skills, at least as regards the specific technological terminology of the teachings.
Prerequisites
For following this course it is mandatory to have acquired the basic notions on Applied Physics planned inside the three years degree.
Course unit content
The course aims to provide students with the necessary applicative elements of Evironmental Applied Physics related to environmental issues, in all its meanings. The concepts learned in the previous Applied Physics course are employed for the solution of problems related to heat transfer in buildings. This affects the activity of architects responsible for the design of buildings in urban areas. In particular, the course analyzes the problems related to the building facilities aimed at integrating the basic functions (HVAC systems).
Full programme
Basic concepts on HVAC systems:
- Introduction
- HVAC systems classifcation (all air systems, all water systems and
air-water systems)
- Main components of each type of HVAC system.
High efficiency technologies:
- heating/cooling equipment (heat pumps, CHP)
- terminal units (underfloor heating and radiant ceiling panels)
- variable speed drives on fans and pumps
- heat recovery units
- high efficiency air conditioning systems.
Renewable energy sources:
- Solar energy
- Geothermal energy
- Biomass energy
Bibliography
Robert McDowall. Fundamentals of HVAC Systems. Elsevier Science, 2007.
Further bibliographical information will be provided during the course.
Teaching methods
Lectures are used as teaching method.
Assessment methods and criteria
The examination consists of a written test.
Other information
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2030 agenda goals for sustainable development
This course contributes to the realization of the ONU objectives of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
In particular the topics of this course are related to the following goals:
- Goal 11: Sustainable cities and communities
- Goal 12: Responsible consumption and production.
