Uncertainty from occupant-related matters is typically shrugged off by building designers as beyond their control. However, evidence suggests that careful attention of designers can help prevent occupants from behaving in energy-intensive ways; not by policing their behaviour, but by improving comfort. This research area examines the concept of bi-directional robust design – an attempt to design systems to be as resistant as possible to the noise of inputs – as an objective. Rather than modify occupant behaviour, which has shown only modest success, robust design strives to improve buildings to cope with diverse weather conditions and occupant behaviour.
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