“Condensation Study: Thermal Analysis of Aluminum-Framed Window Systems under Different Environmental Conditions”

Professor Ajla Aksamija recently published a journal article “Condensation Study: Thermal Analysis of Aluminum-Framed Window Systems under Different Environmental Conditions,” co-authored with her PhD student, Suncica Milosevic. The study was published in the Journal of Architectural Engineering and presents research that evaluated potential for condensation among numerous window systems with a wide array of heat transfer coefficients (U-factors) and condensation resistance (CR) values, with a goal to understand these relationships and visualize what CR values mean for window system selection in real-world practice. The study utilized extensive thermal modeling, where approximately 600 different models were simulated, considering different components of window systems and environmental conditions. Specific objectives were to determine the interior and exterior environmental conditions under which condensation develops, to measure the condensed area (linear extent of condensation along the interior edges of analyzed window systems), and to determine whether combinations of higher-performing window system components (which are often reflected by lower U-factor values) may be a good indicator of higher resistance to condensation. Research results show that condensation potential as well as condensation extents are influenced by the performance and specific combination of the individual window system components (the frame, glass, and spacer), rather than the overall system’s CR and/or U-factor values, and that the component with lowest thermal-performance drives condensation. The study was funded in part by an industry partner, Technoform.

 

“Post-pandemic Office Spaces: Considerations and Design Strategies for Hybrid Work Environments”

Professor Ajla Aksamija recently published a journal article “Post-pandemic Office Spaces: Considerations and Design Strategies for Hybrid Work Environments,” co-authored with her PhD student, Suncica Milosevic. The study was published in the Enquiry: The ARCC Journal for Architectural Research, and it investigated renovation strategies for two case study office spaces. These offices are utilized by an administrative unit at the University of Utah, which had transitioned into a hybrid-work mode as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. These spaces were designed as traditional, open-offices with cubicle workstations, which are no longer functional for their adapted work-mode and anticipated future growth. The goal of the research was to evaluate the physical conditions of the existing office spaces, investigate the employees’ working patterns and office culture, and to propose renovation strategies that would meet both the current and the projected future needs that support a hybrid work structure. The study utilized mixed-mode research methods, which included qualitative and quantitative methods. Qualitative methods included archival and empirical research of the existing office space conditions, as well as users’ input through online survey and focus group interviews. Surveys and focus group interviews were conducted with current employees of the two offices to evaluate work patterns and space needs through user insight. The final design, which considered users’ input regarding team dynamics, work schedules, and specific space and function needs, achieved a significant improvement in balances between team and individual space functions, private and public circulation, access to daylight and accessibility. The study was funded by the University Connected Learning at the University of Utah.