The screen at the centre: developments by Barbour and Autodesk reinforce the trend for the networked computer to become the operational focus of architects' work

Article Abstract:

Networked computer infrastructure is developing, providing increased data-carrying capacity and speeding up communications within project teams and enabling work to be shared by offices throughout the country.Network software tools such as e-mail, videoconferencing, the internet and networked document management, is relatively simple. The aim is to make the computer screen the operational hub for integrating information gathering, processing and communications. Autodesk and Barbour's strategic partnership should contribute to the trend towards integration, and brings together CAD, document management, Internet facilities, and CD-ROMs.

Methods, Computer networks, Product development, Document management systems

---

Underfloor heating and cooling

Article Abstract:

The University of East Anglia's (UEA) new Elizabeth Fry Building is another example of the UEA's patronage of low-energy design, since it uses hollow-core concrete floor slabs to heat the building in winter and cool it in summer. The 3,000 sq mt building has four levels which house administrative offices, teaching space and a restaurant. The energy design had to meet requirements ranging from small cellular offices to lecture theatres. The designers, Fulcrum Engineering and John Miller & Partners, used the Swedish Termodeck proprietary floor system to cool and heat the building.

Universities and colleges, Buildings and facilities, Heating, cooling and ventilation, University of East Anglia

---

Cooling with thermal capacity

Article Abstract:

John Outram Associates' design of offices and laboratories for the Association for Consumer Research makes use of low energy cooling systems. These include efficient lighting, reducing solar gain with shading, exposing the thermal mass of the structure and running cool air through the building at night. Other features are a building management system, local control of windows and lighting and mechanical ventilation. Energy costs are likely to be less than in an air conditioned building but the project has been postponed and further research is needed.

Research, Energy use, Buildings, Architecture and energy conservation, Energy efficient buildings

Similar abstracts:

• Abstracts: The corporation and the economist. The effects of mergers: an international comparison. Managerial discretion and managerial compensation
• Abstracts: The measurement and use of operational flexibility in the loading of Flexible Manufacturing Systems. The measurement of manufacturing flexibility
• Abstracts: Subtleties lost amid too much reverence. Prague's tribute to a great Slovenian architect. Signore Pevsner
• Abstracts: Clinton and Congress: united we stand, for the moment. Sapping the energy tax. Without sacrifice
• Abstracts: Designs on the world market. A pioneer partially restored to its former glory. Building a flexible surgery on a difficult urban site

This website is not affiliated with document authors or copyright owners. This page is provided for informational purposes only. Unintentional errors are possible.