For my HVAC system, I designed two routes for each level (both supply and returns). The duct split near the HVAC room to ensure the enough amount of air can pass the duct. The duct was used as 20’’ x 10’’ size from the beginning. Then, it becomes thinner for each space (15’’, 10’’)
I adjusted the airflow based on the space requirement, and I added a reasonable number of air terminals t distribute the air for each space.
After reveiewing my structural model (I used 12 x 26 W beam to suppor the slab, around 10’’ height), I decided my duct height as 10’ (center from level). The beam was also offset by 5’’ since it needs to suppport the slab. The corresponding air terminal will be 9’ 5’’ for supply air. The return duct was set as 9’ from the floor to avoid the conflicts with supply duct.
Level 0 Plan View
Level 1 Plan View
Level 0 3D Modeling View
The challenge I met is the duct height. There are floor, steels on ceilings. We need to offset the duct to a lower level. As we approach the inside room, the duct becomes thinner and we waste some amount of ceiling space. However, we may cause some fluid inefficiency if we introduce turning ducts.
Another challenge is to modify the system together. It is very hard and time-consuming to change the design after finishing the system. We have to select each category from the filter, and I cannot select specific items.
It is hard to consider the conflicts with other building elements (arch, structural). We need to think very carefully, and I will open the structural view when I create a system for my buildings.
I believe my design meets the spacial goals since I try my best to calibrate the duct height as high as possible. I think for my building project, I will conduct more detailed calculations and plotting.
I would definitely recommend reducing the number of turnings for designs because it can absorb efficiency. I also want to add ceilings to improve the aesthetic view. For this small architectural building, I think I can reduce the duct size since we do not need large loads from the schedule information. More importantly, we can add passive designs like shadings, thicker thermal insulation, and daylighting windows to reduce lighting consumption.