Overall HVAC System Strategy
I decided to model the HVAC system for one section of the building (the 3-story portion), and focus on setting up a system that provides both heating and cooling. A roof air handling unit was chosen, and the supply system consists of two main “trunks” that bring air to the two “arms” of the building.
Heating & Cooling Strategy
The VAV dual duct was selected in order to provide both heating and cooling through the air. The system remains consistent among the floors, with adjustments as needed based on the computed HVAC loads. Openings, such as doors and windows provided a good amount of natural ventilation in the structure. Additional fine-tuning can be made to address each space in terms of the supply airflow.
- heating & cooling calculations were taking long - used approx equation
- considering adding external cooling systems, such as a shade system in front of the building/shade panels on the mullions
- overall supply and return air system - mechanical room on each floor to connect the system floor to floor
- should move the return air terminals closer to the return duct / shorten the flex duct distance needed
- zone controllers for enclosed offices
- air flow from exhibit moves into the triple floor height lobby
- conference rooms & open office have zone controllers (conference rooms probably not in use as much as the office)
HVAC System Challenges
The architectural, structural, and mechanical models were merged to consider how the three systems would work together. The mechanical and structural systems run into each other, as pictured below. In order to maximize the clearance height, the two systems would ideally be kept on the same plane. One solution to this would be to rotate the beam system direction so the HVAC system does not cut into the beams. The HVAC system can then run in between the beams.
