Introduction to Bio-Climatic Design

• demonstrate understanding of common Swedish wooden construction technologies;
• conduct a field measurement of outdoor climate;
• retrieve, analyse and present scientific information in oral and written form using appropriate terminology from the field of construction technology and thermal comfort; and
• analyse indoor and outdoor climate from human thermal comfort point of view.

Bio-climatic refers to the relationship between climate and living matter. Accordingly, bio-climatic design is about designing for human beings by considering this relationship. The relationship between climate and living matter is also central to the pursuit of reduced energy usage in buildings without sacrificing human comfort needs. The amount of energy used for heating and cooling a building is determined by (i) the local climate; (ii) the thermal preferences of the occupants and (iii) by the form and fabric of the building.

Within this framework, the primary course focus of this course is human thermal comfort and the fabric of the building. The course starts with the introduction of the theoretical principles of human thermal comfort, the means of climate measurements and thermal comfort assessments. In complementing laboratory works, students will put to use this knowledge and learn the basics of field measurement, thermal comfort assessment and reporting. The course concludes with lectures on common Swedish wooden construction technologies and visits to construction sites.

Written exam 0,5 credits, written reports on laboratory work 2 credits.

The Swedish grades U, 3, 4, 5.