The objective of this course is to provide a thorough understanding of how ventilation and heating/cooling affect thermal comfort, and air quality indoors, and how this, in turn reflects on energy management in the built environment. Thermal comfort and space-conditioning are analysed against the background of human physiological requirements. Different methods for evaluating thermal comfort and indoor climate are presented as applicable in different indoor environments (industries, offices, dwellings, etc.). Factors affecting air quality are analysed. Gaseous and particulate indoor air pollutants are discussed with regard to acceptable concentrations, health effects, existing regulations/standards and control measures. Ventilation demand and ventilation effectiveness are discussed as determined by requirements of pollutant and heat removal in different indoor environments. Methods for estimating/calculating the energy flows required for achieving specific levels of thermal comfort and air quality are analysed as relevant to energy management in the built environment. The influence of architectural aspects is presented and analysed. The concept of environmental building assessment is presented together with assessment schemes and tools commercially available. Occupant behaviour is discussed as relevant to the possibilities of enhancing energy efficiency. A study visit to a relevant site/facility is arranged.
MJ2422 Thermal Comfort and Indoor Climate 6.0 credits
This course will be discontinued.
Last planned examination: Spring 2024
Decision to discontinue this course:
The course is discontinued at the expiration of the autumn semester 2024 according to a decision by the Dean of the ITM School : M-2022-0611. Decision date: 22/04/2022.
The course is given for the last time during spring semester 2022. Final opportunity for examination will be given during spring semester 2024.
Content and learning outcomes
Course contents
Intended learning outcomes
Upon completing the course the student should be aware of the effects of heating and ventilation on indoor air quality and thermal comfort, as well as the implications on energy management in the built environment. Furthermore students should become familiar with the concept of the environmental building assessment and various assessment schemes and tools commercially available.
Literature and preparations
Specific prerequisites
MJ1112 Thermodynamics basic course
MJ1401 Heat transfer
SG1220 Fluid Mechanics
MJ2407 Sustainable Energy Utilization
or equivalent courses
Recommended prerequisites
Equipment
Literature
Examination and completion
If the course is discontinued, students may request to be examined during the following two academic years.
Grading scale
Examination
- FÄL1 - Field Trip, - credits, grading scale: P, F
- INL1 - Assignment, 3.0 credits, grading scale: P, F
- LAB1 - Laboratory Work, - credits, grading scale: P, F
- TEN1 - Written exam, 3.0 credits, grading scale: A, B, C, D, E, FX, F
Based on recommendation from KTH’s coordinator for disabilities, the examiner will decide how to adapt an examination for students with documented disability.
The examiner may apply another examination format when re-examining individual students.
Other requirements for final grade
Two project assignments (PROJ1, 4,5cr), (PROJ2; 1,5cr).
Opportunity to complete the requirements via supplementary examination
Opportunity to raise an approved grade via renewed examination
Examiner
Ethical approach
- All members of a group are responsible for the group's work.
- In any assessment, every student shall honestly disclose any help received and sources used.
- In an oral assessment, every student shall be able to present and answer questions about the entire assignment and solution.