Please add to our community thinking by posting a few inspirational analogies of your own between the systems that you typically find in biological organisms and similar systems that we often (or should) find in buildings.
Think creatively about all the systems and features that allow creatures to survive, thrive, and adapt to their environments!
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1. Nervous System and Building Automation
The nervous system controls the body by processing sensory information and sending signals to maintain balance and respond to changes in the environment. Similarly, a building’s automation system acts as its "nervous system," using sensors to monitor factors like temperature, lighting, and security. For example, motion sensors in a building detect occupancy and adjust lighting or HVAC settings accordingly. In emergencies, alarms are triggered, and sprinkler systems activate automatically, just as the nervous system sends pain signals to prompt immediate action.
2. Skin and Building Façade
Skin serves as a barrier that protects the body from external harm, regulates body temperature, and prevents moisture loss. Similarly, a building’s façade functions as its protective "skin," shielding the interior from harsh weather conditions like rain, wind, or extreme heat. Modern façades often include insulation and weatherproofing materials to control internal temperature and moisture levels, much like how skin prevents dehydration and maintains thermal balance. For example, glass façades with UV coatings reduce heat gain while allowing natural light, mimicking how skin regulates exposure to sunlight.
3. Circulatory System and HVAC
The circulatory system delivers oxygen and nutrients to cells while removing waste products like carbon dioxide to keep the body functioning efficiently. In buildings, the HVAC system mirrors this process by distributing clean air and removing stale air. Ducts act like blood vessels, while fans function as the heart, pumping air throughout the building. Just as the circulatory system ensures every part of the body receives what it needs, a well-designed HVAC system maintains consistent airflow and temperature for comfort and health. For instance, air filtration systems remove pollutants, ensuring the "circulated air" is as clean as oxygenated blood in the body.