Students at Carleton University draw on historical and real-time data from every room in the canal building to learn about and experiment with building systems design.
On May 29, 2012, representatives from Carleton and Delta Controls opened a new facility for teaching and research, housed in a building containing sensors and actuators from Delta Controls to monitor building energy use and respond to occupant needs for light, temperature control and air quality. More than convenience, this monitoring and adjustment ensures that Carleton is using energy efficiently, saving both power and expense.
With Delta Control’s equipment and the expertise of Carleton’s researchers, the building is providing data to further predictive and simulation modeling to enable building managers and designers create smarter, more efficient, sustainable buildings for Canadians.
“Delta Controls has chosen Carleton as a research partner and is investing in our students and researchers by providing them with collaborative space and equipment for discovery and innovation,” says Rafik Goubran, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Design. “The Delta Controls Laboratory will be hub of research to explore and develop new sensor and building automation technology.”
Occupants and visitors to the building can also keep an eye on the building’s performance. A display in the lobby shows current energy uses, weather factors and other variables. “Just seeing this type of data has been shown to decrease energy use by occupants,” says Liam O’Brien, assistant professor in Architectural Conservation and Sustainability Engineering.
