As analytical surfaces show, this building has several large spaces requiring a significant heating and cooling load. I decided to separate rooms into two main zones. Those big spaces use two stories, so the second floor right core will take charge of air handling to those spaces. Also, VAV units are installed for indoor exhibition spaces because exhibition spaces will not be regularly used. Air handling units will be installed for each floor’s utility spaces. Having separated air handling units on each floor can optimize energy use depending on the frequency of the room occupancy. However, since air handling units are one of the heaviest equipment, structure stability should be considered.
- According to the space analytical report, a play zone, gift shop, and two exhibition spaces require around 2500 CFM, almost half of the total CFM at cooling peak. This support of two air handling units will be operated similarly.
- According to the HVAC systems loads analysis through the Revit model, the time of cooling peak will be June 21st. Since the outdoor air percent is only 47.02%, installing more windows would be considered in the final revision.
- The first-floor HVAC system is only connected to the left-side utility space. Since the corridor and rooms are almost linear, the duct can be easily placed linearly, minimizing loss of velocity by roll lines.
- The second floor contains two duct systems, each of which connects to each core. The education spaces and corridor will be controlled by the left core as the first floor, maintaining constant airflow during the entire year, given the use of the rooms. The temperature of commercial spaces and indoor exhibition spaces will be controlled by the right air handling unit. Since commercial space temperatures could show high variability depending on the number of visitors, installing separated air handling units will increase energy efficiency by reducing maximum capacity operation. Since commercial spaces and exhibition spaces have double height, more air terminals are installed compared to the offices and education spaces.
- Third-floor duct layout is quite similar to the first floor, but there is one extension line to the meeting room and the director’s office. The first floor and the third floor were planned to use only one air handling unit, but depending on the cost, schedule, and structural stability, two units can be installed in each side utility room.
The overall HVAC systems are like the ones below. As the sandwich section view shows, the overall elevation is 15 feet, and the MEP height will be 5 feet. End users can enjoy 10 feet of indoor space, and the exhibition spaces, café, and play zone will be 25 feet high. These significant vertical advantages will allow visitors feel open, and the exhibition host will organize various events regardless of the structure’s height.
