Essentials Magazine Essentials Spring 2019 | Page 32

Occupancy Evaluation 101
Measurement
A range of devices measure environ-
mental factors in various units sum-
marized in the chart at right. Devices
are accessible, generally low-cost and
incorporate multiple measurements; a
single unit under ten dollars serves as
both a thermometer and hygrometer.
Decibel meters are available as a free
smart phone app download.
Sensors
A sensor network is associated with
specific classroom(s) in a building and
records data at intervals. Each device
is battery-operated and connected
wirelessly. For example, temperature
sensors record data every five minutes,
while daylight meters might record
illumination levels every 30 minutes.
Sensor data is aggregated and mapped
over time to study patterns such as
energy consumption. Multiple sensors
may be included in a space nearest an
exterior window where fluctuations are
often the greatest and, in most cases,
positioned so they are imperceptible
to the student. If integrated into the
curriculum, then the device/readings
may be a display feature.
Behavior Mapping
New research studies include
mapping behavior and biometrics. Oc-
cupant mapping identifies and tracks
temporal interaction patterns by role
or space type. Wearable technologies
monitor not only positional behavior,
but also record physiological vital
signs such as respiration, heart rate,
blood pressure and blood sugar levels.
The sophisticated array of sensors
now built into most smartphones are
benefitting the social sciences and de-
sign. While confidentiality and privacy
are concerns, there are considerable
benefits to studies that incorporate
additional insight into the physiolog-
ical condition, health and wellness of
occupants.
32 essentials | spring 2019

ENVIRONMENTAL
CONDITION
MEASUREMENT
DEVICE
TEMPERATURE AND HUMIDITY
dry bulb temperature thermometer
thermal envelope infiltration thermal imaging camera
percentage relative humidity (RH) hygrometer
mean radiant temperature globe thermometer
air velocity and flow anemometer, air velocity probe
LIGHTING
daylight/illuminance levels light meter [lux]
color temperature color temperature meter [Kelvin]
ACOUSTIC
sound level/ambient noise
decibel meter [db]
AIR QUALITY
particulates particle meter
carbon dioxide CO 2 (ppm >2.5) CO 2 meter
general VOC level air quality monitor
SPECIFIC VOC LEVEL
formaldehyde, carbon monoxide,
ozone, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen
dioxide, radon, and lead ASHRAE 62.1 does not
recommend target VOC
Schematic design proposal color-coded by space-use