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FIREPLACE 2.0 – THERMALLY ACTIVATED 3-D SAND FORM PRINTS
New concepts of digitally fabricated heat distribution systems for building applications are explored. Heat distribution and temperature control in a 3D printed sand heat pipe will be investigated by experiments and simulations.
Keywords: digital fabrication, building systems, net-zero energy buildings, heat pipe, 3D prints, simulations, experiments, COMSOL, heat transfer, sand, porous media, wicks, capillary action, vacuum, condensation, evaporation, phase change.
Recent developments in digital fabrication methods allow for automation of building processes without the compromise of component normalization. Techniques such as the inkjet powder method, selective laser sintering (SLS) and contour crafting have been used to print and consolidate metal, sand and ceramic materials into complex building structures. The 3-D printing approach can also be extended to integrate HVAC systems directly into the structures. The ability to customize geometry, vary material properties and thermally activate building elements offers engineers and architects new design opportunities to meet operational and embod-ied energy targets and to improve lifecycle energy performance in the building industry.
Recent developments in digital fabrication methods allow for automation of building processes without the compromise of component normalization. Techniques such as the inkjet powder method, selective laser sintering (SLS) and contour crafting have been used to print and consolidate metal, sand and ceramic materials into complex building structures. The 3-D printing approach can also be extended to integrate HVAC systems directly into the structures. The ability to customize geometry, vary material properties and thermally activate building elements offers engineers and architects new design opportunities to meet operational and embod-ied energy targets and to improve lifecycle energy performance in the building industry.
Within the ‘Fireplace 2.0’ project, new concepts of digitally fabricated heat distribution systems for building applications are explored. A promising approach has been identified in 3-D printed sand heat pipes. The goal of this thesis is to study aspects of heat distribution and temperature control of heat pipes for domestic heating. Implications of the 3-D printed wicking structure, sand prints porosity, resin infiltration and the objects geometrical features on heat transfer will be investigated. Proof-of-concept prototypes will be experimentally characterized by means of calorimetry and IR-thermography and COMSOL Multiphysics simulations will be used for geometric and energetic optimisations as well as to predict the performance of full scale prototypes.
Within the ‘Fireplace 2.0’ project, new concepts of digitally fabricated heat distribution systems for building applications are explored. A promising approach has been identified in 3-D printed sand heat pipes. The goal of this thesis is to study aspects of heat distribution and temperature control of heat pipes for domestic heating. Implications of the 3-D printed wicking structure, sand prints porosity, resin infiltration and the objects geometrical features on heat transfer will be investigated. Proof-of-concept prototypes will be experimentally characterized by means of calorimetry and IR-thermography and COMSOL Multiphysics simulations will be used for geometric and energetic optimisations as well as to predict the performance of full scale prototypes.
We are looking for motivated students with engineering background and knowledge/interest in heat transfer, multiphysics and/or experimental techniques related to heat pipes. Please send a summary of previous experience (e.g. BSc thesis, etc.) with your application.
Contact for further information: Illias Hischier
illias.hischier@arch.ethz.ch
We are looking for motivated students with engineering background and knowledge/interest in heat transfer, multiphysics and/or experimental techniques related to heat pipes. Please send a summary of previous experience (e.g. BSc thesis, etc.) with your application. Contact for further information: Illias Hischier illias.hischier@arch.ethz.ch