Developing a Prototypical Biophilic Localized Natural Airflow Simulator (BLNAS) for a Modular Workstation

Architects have long been focused on designing eco-friendly buildings, but there's a growing realization that focusing solely on energy efficiency isn't enough. Occupants spend the majority of their time indoors, and the quality of these indoor spaces profoundly impacts their well-being and productivity. Yet, often overlooked, are factors like lighting, air quality, and noise that can significantly affect how occupants feel and perform. With rising urbanization and recent experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic highlighting the importance of indoor environments, there's a renewed emphasis on user-centric design. Biophilic design, which incorporates elements of nature into buildings, has emerged as a promising approach to enhancing occupants' health, wellness, and well-being. Airflow, a critical aspect of biophilic design, plays a key role in creating healthier indoor spaces. This study aims to develop a prototype system that mimics natural airflow patterns indoors to promote occupants' health and well-being. By analyzing weather data, natural airflow features were identified and used to inform the design of a mechanical system. The goal is to create settings that replicate natural airflow patterns in indoor environments. Ultimately, this research lays the groundwork for future studies to explore how such biophilic systems impact occupants' physiological and psychological health. By prioritizing user experience in building design, indoor spaces that not only conserve energy but also enhance the quality of life could be developed.

Name thesis:degree_name

Doctor of Philosophy

Level thesis:degree_level

doctoral

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Architecture and Design Research

Department dc:contributor.department

Architecture

Grantor dc:publisher

Virginia Tech

Year dc:date.issued

2024

Author dc:creator

• Rabab'ah, Ikhlas Oqlah

Chair dc:contributor.committeechair

• Jones, James R.

Committee members dc:contributor.committeemember

• Ahmed, Tarek
• Marr, Linsey C.
• Tural, Elif

• Biophilia
• Biophilic Design
• Natural Airflow Patterns
• Natural Airflow Simulation
• Personalized Ventilation
• Human-Centric Design
• Human Health and Wellness

Statement dc:rights

• In Copyright

Licence dc:rights.uri

• http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/

Language dc:language.iso

en

Dc Identifier Other

vt_gsexam:39672

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:vtechworks.lib.vt.edu:10919/118650