In the heart of Germany, a groundbreaking laboratory is redefining how we understand and control indoor environments. The Comfort Studies and Indoor Environment Laboratory, or CoSIE Lab, developed by Jun Jiang and his team at RWTH Aachen University, is setting new standards for multi-domain indoor environmental quality (IEQ) research. This advanced facility is not just a test room; it’s a game-changer for the energy sector and beyond.
The CoSIE Lab addresses significant challenges faced by many existing IEQ laboratories, such as inadequate multi-domain control and limited interaction with participants. “Our goal was to create a flexible and expandable research facility that can precisely control IEQ factors across thermal, indoor air quality, visual, and acoustic domains,” explains Jun Jiang, lead author of the study published in *Indoor Environments* (translated from German as “Innenräume”).
The development of the CoSIE Lab was a meticulous process, divided into distinct phases: conceptual planning, design and construction, commissioning and performance testing, and experimental applications. One of the key findings from this process is the effectiveness of capillary tube mats for radiant temperature control. When combined with a hydronic system, the CoSIE Lab achieves an impressive 76 zones with individual surface temperature control ranging from 15 °C to 40 °C. This innovation enhances the air conditioning process, enabling both homogenous and heterogenous air temperature distributions within the test rooms.
The implications for the energy sector are substantial. Precise control over indoor environmental factors can lead to significant energy savings and improved occupant comfort. As buildings become increasingly energy-efficient, the demand for advanced laboratories like the CoSIE Lab will grow. These facilities will be crucial in developing and testing new technologies that can meet the evolving needs of the market.
The CoSIE Lab also provides valuable insights into the performance of artificial lighting. Measurements of illuminance and color temperature demonstrate close alignment with design specifications, as simulated in software. This accuracy is essential for creating optimal indoor environments that enhance productivity and well-being.
Acoustic assessments revealed potential overestimations of effective absorption areas when applying the DIN EN 12354‐6 model for reverberation time calculations. This finding highlights the importance of continuous research and refinement in the field of indoor acoustics.
The development of the CoSIE Lab is a testament to the power of innovation and collaboration. By sharing valuable insights and lessons learned, Jun Jiang and his team are contributing to the advancement of IEQ research. Their work is not just about creating a state-of-the-art laboratory; it’s about shaping the future of indoor environments and the energy sector.
As we look ahead, the CoSIE Lab serves as a model for future developments in the field. Its success demonstrates the potential of advanced research facilities to drive innovation and improve our understanding of indoor environmental quality. For professionals in the energy sector, the CoSIE Lab offers a glimpse into the future of building design and technology, where comfort, efficiency, and sustainability go hand in hand.